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Tan Y, Xu C, Liu Y, Bai Y, Li X, Wang X. Sprayable and self-healing chitosan-based hydrogels for promoting healing of infected wound via anti-bacteria, anti-inflammation and angiogenesis. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 337:122147. [PMID: 38710554 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122147] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Treatment of infected wound by simultaneously eliminating bacteria and inducing angiogenesis to promote wound tissue regeneration remains a clinical challenge. Dynamic and reversable hydrogels can adapt to irregular wound beds, which have raised great attention as wound dressings. Herein, a sprayable chitosan-based hydrogel (HPC/CCS/ODex-IGF1) was developed using hydroxypropyl chitosan (HPC), caffeic acid functionalized chitosan (CCS), oxidized dextran (ODex) to crosslink through the dynamic imine bond, which was pH-responsive to the acidic microenvironment and could controllably release insulin growth factor-1 (IGF1). The HPC/CCS/ODex-IGF1 hydrogels not only showed self-healing, self-adaptable and sprayable properties, but also exhibited excellent antibacterial ability, antioxidant property, low-cytotoxicity and angiogenetic activity. In vivo experiments demonstrated that hydrogels promoted tissue regeneration and healing of bacteria-infected wound with a rate of approximately 98.4 % on day 11 by eliminating bacteria, reducing inflammatory and facilitating angiogenesis, demonstrating its great potential for wound dressing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujiao Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Pulp and Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, 381 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Changliang Xu
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, The First Clinical Medical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pulp and Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, 381 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Yun Bai
- Jiangsu Province People's Hospital (Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital), 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xiaoyun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pulp and Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, 381 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510640, China.
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pulp and Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, 381 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510640, China.
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Czekay RP, Higgins CE, Aydin HB, Samarakoon R, Subasi NB, Higgins SP, Lee H, Higgins PJ. SERPINE1: Role in Cholangiocarcinoma Progression and a Therapeutic Target in the Desmoplastic Microenvironment. Cells 2024; 13:796. [PMID: 38786020 PMCID: PMC11119900 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100796] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
A heterogenous population of inflammatory elements, other immune and nonimmune cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are evident in solid malignancies where they coexist with the growing tumor mass. In highly desmoplastic malignancies, CAFs are the prominent mesenchymal cell type in the tumor microenvironment (TME), where their presence and abundance signal a poor prognosis. CAFs play a major role in the progression of various cancers by remodeling the supporting stroma into a dense, fibrotic matrix while secreting factors that promote the maintenance of cancer stem-like characteristics, tumor cell survival, aggressive growth and metastasis and reduced sensitivity to chemotherapeutics. Tumors with high stromal fibrotic signatures are more likely to be associated with drug resistance and eventual relapse. Identifying the molecular underpinnings for such multidirectional crosstalk among the various normal and neoplastic cell types in the TME may provide new targets and novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention. This review highlights recent concepts regarding the complexity of CAF biology in cholangiocarcinoma, a highly desmoplastic cancer. The discussion focuses on CAF heterogeneity, functionality in drug resistance, contributions to a progressively fibrotic tumor stroma, the involved signaling pathways and the participating genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf-Peter Czekay
- Department of Regenerative & Cancer Cell Biology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; (R.-P.C.); (C.E.H.); (R.S.); (S.P.H.)
| | - Craig E. Higgins
- Department of Regenerative & Cancer Cell Biology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; (R.-P.C.); (C.E.H.); (R.S.); (S.P.H.)
| | - Hasan Basri Aydin
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; (H.B.A.); (N.B.S.); (H.L.)
| | - Rohan Samarakoon
- Department of Regenerative & Cancer Cell Biology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; (R.-P.C.); (C.E.H.); (R.S.); (S.P.H.)
| | - Nusret Bekir Subasi
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; (H.B.A.); (N.B.S.); (H.L.)
| | - Stephen P. Higgins
- Department of Regenerative & Cancer Cell Biology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; (R.-P.C.); (C.E.H.); (R.S.); (S.P.H.)
| | - Hwajeong Lee
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; (H.B.A.); (N.B.S.); (H.L.)
| | - Paul J. Higgins
- Department of Regenerative & Cancer Cell Biology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; (R.-P.C.); (C.E.H.); (R.S.); (S.P.H.)
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Lai C, Wu Z, Li Z, Huang X, Hu Z, Yu H, Yuan Z, Shi J, Hu J, Mulati Y, Liu C, Xu K. Single-cell analysis extracted CAFs-related genes to established online app to predict clinical outcome and radiotherapy prognosis of prostate cancer. Clin Transl Oncol 2024; 26:1240-1255. [PMID: 38070051 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-023-03348-6] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a significant role in regulating the clinical outcome and radiotherapy prognosis of prostate cancer (PCa). The aim of this study is to identify CAFs-related genes (CAFsRGs) using single-cell analysis and evaluate their potential for predicting the prognosis and radiotherapy prognosis in PCa. METHODS We acquire transcriptome and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) results of PCa and normal adjacent tissues from The GEO and TCGA databases. The "MCPcounter" and "EPIC" R packages were used to assess the infiltration level of CAFs and examine their correlation with PCa prognosis. ScRNA-seq and differential gene expression analyses were used to extract CAFsRGs. We also applied COX and LASSO analysis to further construct a risk score (CAFsRS) to assess biochemical recurrence-free survival (BRFS) and radiotherapy prognosis of PCa. The predictive efficacy of CAFsRS was evaluated by ROC curves and subgroup analysis. Finally, we integrated the CAFsRS gene signature with relevant clinical features to develop a nomogram, enhancing the predictive accuracy. RESULTS The abundance of CAFs is associated with a poor prognosis of PCa patients. ScRNA-seq and differential gene expression analysis revealed 323 CAFsRGs. After COX and LASSO analysis, we obtained seven CAFsRGs with prognostic significance (PTGS2, FKBP10, ENG, CDH11, COL5A1, COL5A2, and SRD5A2). Additionally, we established a risk score model based on the training set (n = 257). The ROC curve was used to confirm the performance of CAFsRS (The AUC values for 1, 3 and 5-year survival were determined to be 0.732, 0.773, and 0.775, respectively.). The testing set (n = 129), GSE70770 set (n = 199) and GSE116918 set (n = 248) revealed that the model exhibited exceptional predictive performance. This was also confirmed by clinical subgroup analysis. The violin plot demonstrated a statistically significant disparity in the CAFs infiltrations between the high-risk and low-risk groups of CAFsRS. Further analysis confirmed that both CAFsRS and T stage were independent prognostic factors for PCa. The nomogram was then established and its excellent predictive performance was demonstrated through calibration and ROC curves. Finally, we developed an online prognostic prediction app ( https://sysu-symh-cafsnomogram.streamlit.app/ ) to facilitate the practical application of the nomogram. CONCLUSIONS The prognostic prediction risk score model we constructed could accurately predict BRFS and radiotherapy prognosis PCa, which can provide new ideas for clinicians to develop personalized PCa treatment and follow-up programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Lai
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhikai Wu
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhuohang Li
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Urological Diseases, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhensheng Hu
- Department of Medical Informatics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Hao Yu
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Urological Diseases, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhihan Yuan
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Juanyi Shi
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Urological Diseases, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Jintao Hu
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Yelisudan Mulati
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Cheng Liu
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Urological Diseases, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China.
| | - Kewei Xu
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Urological Diseases, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China.
- Sun Yat-Sen College of Medical Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518000, Guangdong, China.
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Farr NTH, Workman VL, Saad S, Roman S, Hearnden V, Chapple CR, Murdoch C, Rodenburg C, MacNeil S. Uncovering the relationship between macrophages and polypropylene surgical mesh. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 159:213800. [PMID: 38377947 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Currently, in vitro testing examines the cytotoxicity of biomaterials but fails to consider how materials respond to mechanical forces and the immune response to them; both are crucial for successful long-term implantation. A notable example of this failure is polypropylene mid-urethral mesh used in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The mesh was largely successful in abdominal hernia repair but produced significant complications when repurposed to treat SUI. Developing more physiologically relevant in vitro test models would allow more physiologically relevant data to be collected about how biomaterials will interact with the body. This study investigates the effects of mechanochemical distress (a combination of oxidation and mechanical distention) on polypropylene mesh surfaces and the effect this has on macrophage gene expression. Surface topology of the mesh was characterised using SEM and AFM; ATR-FTIR, EDX and Raman spectroscopy was applied to detect surface oxidation and structural molecular alterations. Uniaxial mechanical testing was performed to reveal any bulk mechanical changes. RT-qPCR of selected pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory genes was carried out on macrophages cultured on control and mechanochemically distressed PP mesh. Following exposure to mechanochemical distress the mesh surface was observed to crack and craze and helical defects were detected in the polymer backbone. Surface oxidation of the mesh was seen after macrophage attachment for 7 days. These changes in mesh surface triggered modified gene expression in macrophages. Pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory genes were upregulated after macrophages were cultured on mechanochemically distressed mesh, whereas the same genes were down-regulated in macrophages exposed to control mesh. This study highlights the relationship between macrophages and polypropylene surgical mesh, thus offering more insight into the fate of an implanted material than existing in vitro testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas T H Farr
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Victoria L Workman
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sanad Saad
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Department of Urology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sabiniano Roman
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Vanessa Hearnden
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Craig Murdoch
- School of Clinical Dentistry, 19 Claremont Crescent, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Cornelia Rodenburg
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sheila MacNeil
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
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Røgenes H, Finne K, Winge I, Akslen LA, Östman A, Milosevic V. Development of 42 marker panel for in-depth study of cancer associated fibroblast niches in breast cancer using imaging mass cytometry. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1325191. [PMID: 38711512 PMCID: PMC11070582 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1325191] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC) is a novel, and formidable high multiplexing imaging method emerging as a promising tool for in-depth studying of tissue architecture and intercellular communications. Several studies have reported various IMC antibody panels mainly focused on studying the immunological landscape of the tumor microenvironment (TME). With this paper, we wanted to address cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a component of the TME very often underrepresented and not emphasized enough in present IMC studies. Therefore, we focused on the development of a comprehensive IMC panel that can be used for a thorough description of the CAF composition of breast cancer TME and for an in-depth study of different CAF niches in relation to both immune and breast cancer cell communication. We established and validated a 42 marker panel using a variety of control tissues and rigorous quantification methods. The final panel contained 6 CAF-associated markers (aSMA, FAP, PDGFRa, PDGFRb, YAP1, pSMAD2). Breast cancer tissues (4 cases of luminal, 5 cases of triple negative breast cancer) and a modified CELESTA pipeline were used to demonstrate the utility of our IMC panel for detailed profiling of different CAF, immune and cancer cell phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Røgenes
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kenneth Finne
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ingeborg Winge
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Lars A. Akslen
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Arne Östman
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Vladan Milosevic
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Guo T, Xu J. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: a versatile mediator in tumor progression, metastasis, and targeted therapy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024:10.1007/s10555-024-10186-7. [PMID: 38602594 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) has been demonstrated to play a significant role in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the major component of TME and exhibit heterogeneous properties in their communication with tumor cells. This heterogeneity of CAFs can be attributed to various origins, including quiescent fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), adipocytes, pericytes, endothelial cells, and mesothelial cells. Moreover, single-cell RNA sequencing has identified diverse phenotypes of CAFs, with myofibroblastic CAFs (myCAFs) and inflammatory CAFs (iCAFs) being the most acknowledged, alongside newly discovered subtypes like antigen-presenting CAFs (apCAFs). Due to these heterogeneities, CAFs exert multiple functions in tumorigenesis, cancer stemness, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, metabolism, and metastasis. As a result, targeted therapies aimed at the TME, particularly focusing on CAFs, are rapidly developing, fueling the promising future of advanced tumor-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianchen Guo
- Women's Reproductive Health Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junfen Xu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China.
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Reshkin SJ, Cardone RA, Koltai T. Genetic Signature of Human Pancreatic Cancer and Personalized Targeting. Cells 2024; 13:602. [PMID: 38607041 PMCID: PMC11011857 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070602] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a highly lethal disease with a 5-year survival rate of around 11-12%. Surgery, being the treatment of choice, is only possible in 20% of symptomatic patients. The main reason is that when it becomes symptomatic, IT IS the tumor is usually locally advanced and/or has metastasized to distant organs; thus, early diagnosis is infrequent. The lack of specific early symptoms is an important cause of late diagnosis. Unfortunately, diagnostic tumor markers become positive at a late stage, and there is a lack of early-stage markers. Surgical and non-surgical cases are treated with neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant chemotherapy, and the results are usually poor. However, personalized targeted therapy directed against tumor drivers may improve this situation. Until recently, many pancreatic tumor driver genes/proteins were considered untargetable. Chemical and physical characteristics of mutated KRAS are a formidable challenge to overcome. This situation is slowly changing. For the first time, there are candidate drugs that can target the main driver gene of pancreatic cancer: KRAS. Indeed, KRAS inhibition has been clinically achieved in lung cancer and, at the pre-clinical level, in pancreatic cancer as well. This will probably change the very poor outlook for this disease. This paper reviews the genetic characteristics of sporadic and hereditary predisposition to pancreatic cancer and the possibilities of a personalized treatment according to the genetic signature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan J. Reshkin
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Rosa Angela Cardone
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Tomas Koltai
- Oncomed, Via Pier Capponi 6, 50132 Florence, Italy
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Jin X, Hu X, Chen J, Shan L, Hao D, Zhang R. Electric field induced the changes in structure and function of human transforming growth factor beta receptor type I: from molecular dynamics to docking. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38516997 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2329288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is believed to play essential roles in several physiological activities, including cancer. TGF-β receptor type I (TBR-I) is a key membrane receptor protein in the TGF-β signaling pathway, which relates to many intracellular biological effects. In recent years, cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has been found to have promising prospects in selective anticancer therapy and has confirmed its essential role in the TGF-β signaling pathway. However, the ambiguous effect of CAP-induced electric field (EF) on TBR-I still limits the application of CAP in clinical therapy. Molecular dynamics is applied to assess the effect of EF on the structure of the extracellular domain of TBR-I using a series of indicators and methods, and then we discuss the ligand binding ability of TBR-I. Results show that moderate EF intensities' structural restraints may contribute to the structural stability and ligand-binding ability of TBR-I, but an EF higher than 0.1 V/nm will be harmful. What's more, EF induces a change in the docking interface of TBR-I, showing the conformation and position of special sequences of residues decide the ligand binding surface. The relevant results suggest that CAP-induced EF plays a crucial role in receptor-receptor interaction and provides significant guidelines for EF-related anticancer therapy.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinrui Jin
- School of Energy and Electrical Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaochuan Hu
- School of Energy and Electrical Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiayu Chen
- School of Energy and Electrical Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lequn Shan
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Dingjun Hao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Cao L, Ouyang H. Intercellular crosstalk between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts via exosomes in gastrointestinal tumors. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1374742. [PMID: 38463229 PMCID: PMC10920350 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1374742] [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: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) tumors are a significant global health threat, with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Exosomes contain various biologically active molecules like nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids and can serve as messengers for intercellular communication. They play critical roles in the exchange of information between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME consists of mesenchymal cells and components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), with fibroblasts being the most abundant cell type in the tumor mesenchyme. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are derived from normal fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells that are activated in the TME. CAFs can secrete exosomes to modulate cell proliferation, invasion, migration, drug resistance, and other biological processes in tumors. Additionally, tumor cells can manipulate the function and behavior of fibroblasts through direct cell-cell interactions. This review provides a summary of the intercellular crosstalk between GI tumor cells and CAFs through exosomes, along with potential underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longyang Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Peoples' Hospital of Hangzhou Linan District, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Ouyang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Peoples' Hospital of Hangzhou Linan District, Hangzhou, China
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Yang K, Yi T. Tumor cell stemness in gastrointestinal cancer: regulation and targeted therapy. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 10:1297611. [PMID: 38455361 PMCID: PMC10918437 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1297611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The cancer stem cells are a rare group of self-renewable cancer cells capable of the initiation, progression, metastasis and recurrence of tumors, and also a key contributor to the therapeutic resistance. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanism of tumor stemness regulation, especially in the gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, is of great importance for targeting CSC and designing novel therapeutic strategies. This review aims to elucidate current advancements in the understanding of CSC regulation, including CSC biomarkers, signaling pathways, and non-coding RNAs. We will also provide a comprehensive view on how the tumor microenvironment (TME) display an overall tumor-promoting effect, including the recruitment and impact of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the establishment of an immunosuppressive milieu, and the induction of angiogenesis and hypoxia. Lastly, this review consolidates mainstream novel therapeutic interventions targeting CSC stemness regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangqi Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tuo Yi
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Chen S, Wang C, Meng Y, Li P, Pan Y, He M, Ni X. Nanofabrications of Erythrocyte Membrane-Coated Telmisartan Delivery System Effective for Radiosensitivity of Tumor Cells in Mice Model. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:1487-1508. [PMID: 38380147 PMCID: PMC10878400 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s441418] [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: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Radiation stimulates the secretion of tumor stroma and induces resistance, recurrence, and metastasis of stromal-vascular tumors during radiotherapy. The proliferation and activation of tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) are important reasons for the production of tumor stroma. Telmisartan (Tel) can inhibit the proliferation and activation of TAFs (resting TAFs), which may promote radiosensitization. However, Tel has a poor water solubility. Methods In this study, self-assembled telmisartan nanoparticles (Tel NPs) were prepared by aqueous solvent diffusion method to solve the insoluble problem of Tel and achieve high drug loading of Tel. Then, erythrocyte membrane (ECM) obtained by hypotonic lysis was coated on the surface of Tel NPs (ECM/Tel) for the achievement of in vivo long circulation and tumor targeting. Immunofluorescence staining, western blot and other biological techniques were used to investigate the effect of ECM/Tel on TAFs activation inhibition (resting effect) and mechanisms involved. The multicellular spheroids (MCSs) model and mouse breast cancer cells (4T1) were constructed to investigate the effect of ECM/Tel on reducing stroma secretion, alleviating hypoxia, and the corresponding promoting radiosensitization effect in vitro. A mouse orthotopic 4T1 breast cancer model was constructed to investigate the radiosensitizing effect of ECM/Tel on inhibiting breast cancer growth and lung metastasis of breast cancer. Results ECM/Tel showed good physiological stability and tumor-targeting ability. ECM/Tel could rest TAFs and reduce stroma secretion, alleviate hypoxia, and enhance penetration in tumor microenvironment. In addition, ECM/Tel arrested the cell cycle of 4T1 cells to the radiosensitive G2/M phase. In mouse orthotopic 4T1 breast cancer model, ECM/Tel played a superior role in radiosensitization and significantly inhibited lung metastasis of breast cancer. Conclusion ECM/Tel showed synergistical radiosensitization effect on both the tumor microenvironment and tumor cells, which is a promising radiosensitizer in the radiotherapy of stroma-vascular tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqing Chen
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cheng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213164, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanyan Meng
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213164, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pengyin Li
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213164, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yiwen Pan
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213164, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mu He
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinye Ni
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Medical Physics, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
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12
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Wang Y, Chen S, Bao S, Yao L, Wen Z, Xu L, Chen X, Guo S, Pang H, Zhou Y, Zhou P. Deciphering the fibrotic process: mechanism of chronic radiation skin injury fibrosis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1338922. [PMID: 38426100 PMCID: PMC10902513 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1338922] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
This review explores the mechanisms of chronic radiation-induced skin injury fibrosis, focusing on the transition from acute radiation damage to a chronic fibrotic state. It reviewed the cellular and molecular responses of the skin to radiation, highlighting the role of myofibroblasts and the significant impact of Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) in promoting fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transformation. The review delves into the epigenetic regulation of fibrotic gene expression, the contribution of extracellular matrix proteins to the fibrotic microenvironment, and the regulation of the immune system in the context of fibrosis. Additionally, it discusses the potential of biomaterials and artificial intelligence in medical research to advance the understanding and treatment of radiation-induced skin fibrosis, suggesting future directions involving bioinformatics and personalized therapeutic strategies to enhance patient quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiren Wang
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Shouying Chen
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Shuilan Bao
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Li Yao
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zhongjian Wen
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Lixia Xu
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaoman Chen
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Shengmin Guo
- Department of Nursing, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Haowen Pang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- School of Medical Information and Engineering, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Wound Healing Basic Research and Clinical Application Key Laboratory of Luzhou, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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13
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Ma TY, Tang SL, Wang B, Wang G, Sun CM, Pan JX, Han DQ, Li JY, Zhong JH. Role of TGF-β3 in modulating inflammatory responses and wound healing processes in ischemic ulcers in atherosclerotic patients. Int Wound J 2024; 21:e14762. [PMID: 38356162 PMCID: PMC10867290 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.14762] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Ischemic ulcers pose a multifaceted clinical dilemma for patients with atherosclerosis, frequently compounded by suboptimal wound healing mechanisms. The dual function of Transforming Growth Factor Beta 3 (TGF-β3) in ischemic ulcer healing is not fully comprehended, despite its involvement in modulating inflammatory responses and tissue regeneration. The main aim of this investigation was to clarify the functions and mechanisms by which TGF-β3 regulates inflammatory responses and promotes wound healing in patients with ischemic ulcers who have atherosclerosis. Between August 2022 and November 2023, this cross-sectional investigation was conducted on 428 patients diagnosed with atherosclerotic ischemic ulcers in Haikou, China. The expression and function of TGF-β3 were examined throughout the different stages of wound healing, including inflammation, proliferation and remodelling. In addition to documenting patient demographics and ulcer characteristics, an analysis was conducted on biopsy samples to determine the expression of TGF-β3, pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers. A subset of patients were administered topical TGF-β3 in order to evaluate its therapeutic effects. The expression pattern of TGF-β3 was found to be stage-dependent and significant, exhibiting increased levels during the phase of inflammation and reduced activity in subsequent phases. TGF-β3 levels were found to be greater in ulcers that were larger and deeper, especially in inflammatory phase. TGF-β3 applied topically induced discernible enhancement in ulcer healing parameters, such as reduction in ulcer depth and size. The therapeutic significance of TGF-β3 was emphasised due to its twofold function of regulating the inflammatory environment and facilitating the regeneration of damaged tissues. Ischemic ulcer lesion healing is significantly influenced by TGF-β3, which functions as an anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory mediator. Its correlation with ulcer characteristics and stages of healing suggests that it may have utility as a targeted therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Yi Ma
- Department of CardiologyHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Shi Lin Tang
- Department of CardiologyHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of CardiologyHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Gan Wang
- Department of CardiologyHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Chang Ming Sun
- Department of CardiologyHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Jia Xi Pan
- Department of CardiologyHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Dan Qi Han
- Department of CardiologyHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Jia Yang Li
- Department of CardiologyHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
| | - Jiang Hua Zhong
- Department of CardiologyHaikou Affiliated Hospital of Central South University Xiangya School of MedicineHaikouHainanChina
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14
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Riaz F, Zhang J, Pan F. Forces at play: exploring factors affecting the cancer metastasis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1274474. [PMID: 38361941 PMCID: PMC10867181 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1274474] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastatic disease, a leading and lethal indication of deaths associated with tumors, results from the dissemination of metastatic tumor cells from the site of primary origin to a distant organ. Dispersion of metastatic cells during the development of tumors at distant organs leads to failure to comply with conventional treatments, ultimately instigating abrupt tissue homeostasis and organ failure. Increasing evidence indicates that the tumor microenvironment (TME) is a crucial factor in cancer progression and the process of metastatic tumor development at secondary sites. TME comprises several factors contributing to the initiation and progression of the metastatic cascade. Among these, various cell types in TME, such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), T cells, and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), are significant players participating in cancer metastasis. Besides, various other factors, such as extracellular matrix (ECM), gut microbiota, circadian rhythm, and hypoxia, also shape the TME and impact the metastatic cascade. A thorough understanding of the functions of TME components in tumor progression and metastasis is necessary to discover new therapeutic strategies targeting the metastatic tumor cells and TME. Therefore, we reviewed these pivotal TME components and highlighted the background knowledge on how these cell types and disrupted components of TME influence the metastatic cascade and establish the premetastatic niche. This review will help researchers identify these altered components' molecular patterns and design an optimized, targeted therapy to treat solid tumors and restrict metastatic cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farooq Riaz
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Fan Pan
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, China
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15
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Ahuja S, Zaheer S. Multifaceted TGF-β signaling, a master regulator: From bench-to-bedside, intricacies, and complexities. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:87-127. [PMID: 37859532 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Physiological embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis are regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), an evolutionarily conserved family of secreted polypeptide factors, acting in an autocrine and paracrine manner. The role of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer is complex and sometimes even contradictory, exhibiting either inhibitory or promoting effects depending on the stage of the disease. Under pathological conditions, especially fibrosis and cancer, overexpressed TGF-β causes extracellular matrix deposition, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer-associated fibroblast formation, and/or angiogenesis. In this review article, we have tried to dive deep into the mechanism of action of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis. As TGF-β and its downstream signaling mechanism are implicated in fibrosis and carcinogenesis blocking this signaling mechanism appears to be a promising avenue. However, targeting TGF-β carries substantial risk as this pathway is implicated in multiple homeostatic processes and is also known to have tumor-suppressor functions. There is a need for careful dosing of TGF-β drugs for therapeutic use and patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
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16
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Perez-Favila A, Garza-Veloz I, Hernandez-Marquez LDS, Gutierrez-Vela EF, Flores-Morales V, Martinez-Fierro ML. Antifibrotic Drugs against Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Pulmonary Fibrosis Induced by COVID-19: Therapeutic Approaches and Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1562. [PMID: 38338840 PMCID: PMC10855955 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031562] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the health and economy of the global population. Even after recovery from the disease, post-COVID-19 symptoms, such as pulmonary fibrosis, continue to be a concern. This narrative review aims to address pulmonary fibrosis (PF) from various perspectives, including the fibrotic mechanisms involved in idiopathic and COVID-19-induced pulmonary fibrosis. On the other hand, we also discuss the current therapeutic drugs in use, as well as those undergoing clinical or preclinical evaluation. Additionally, this article will address various biomarkers with usefulness for PF prediction, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and severity assessment in order to provide better treatment strategies for patients with this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Margarita L. Martinez-Fierro
- Doctorado en Ciencias con Orientación en Medicina Molecular, Unidad Académica de Medicina Humana y CS, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Zacatecas 98160, Mexico; (A.P.-F.); (I.G.-V.); (L.d.S.H.-M.); (E.F.G.-V.); (V.F.-M.)
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17
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Valdeolivas A, Amberg B, Giroud N, Richardson M, Gálvez EJC, Badillo S, Julien-Laferrière A, Túrós D, Voith von Voithenberg L, Wells I, Pesti B, Lo AA, Yángüez E, Das Thakur M, Bscheider M, Sultan M, Kumpesa N, Jacobsen B, Bergauer T, Saez-Rodriguez J, Rottenberg S, Schwalie PC, Hahn K. Profiling the heterogeneity of colorectal cancer consensus molecular subtypes using spatial transcriptomics. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:10. [PMID: 38200223 PMCID: PMC10781769 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-023-00488-4] [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: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The consensus molecular subtypes (CMS) of colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most widely-used gene expression-based classification and has contributed to a better understanding of disease heterogeneity and prognosis. Nevertheless, CMS intratumoral heterogeneity restricts its clinical application, stressing the necessity of further characterizing the composition and architecture of CRC. Here, we used Spatial Transcriptomics (ST) in combination with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to decipher the spatially resolved cellular and molecular composition of CRC. In addition to mapping the intratumoral heterogeneity of CMS and their microenvironment, we identified cell communication events in the tumor-stroma interface of CMS2 carcinomas. This includes tumor growth-inhibiting as well as -activating signals, such as the potential regulation of the ETV4 transcriptional activity by DCN or the PLAU-PLAUR ligand-receptor interaction. Our study illustrates the potential of ST to resolve CRC molecular heterogeneity and thereby help advance personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Valdeolivas
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Bettina Amberg
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Giroud
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marion Richardson
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eric J C Gálvez
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Solveig Badillo
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alice Julien-Laferrière
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Demeter Túrós
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Isabelle Wells
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Benedek Pesti
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Amy A Lo
- Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Emilio Yángüez
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | | | - Michael Bscheider
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marc Sultan
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nadine Kumpesa
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Björn Jacobsen
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Bergauer
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julio Saez-Rodriguez
- Faculty of Medicine and Heidelberg University Hospital, Institute of Computational Biomedicine, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sven Rottenberg
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Bern Center for Precision Medicine (BCPM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Petra C Schwalie
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kerstin Hahn
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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18
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Choi KM, Kim B, Lee SM, Han J, Bae HS, Han SB, Lee D, Ham IH, Hur H, Kim E, Kim JY. Characterization of gastric cancer-stimulated signaling pathways and function of CTGF in cancer-associated fibroblasts. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:8. [PMID: 38167009 PMCID: PMC10763493 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01396-7] [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: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) that play an important role in cancer progression. Although the mechanism by which CAFs promote tumorigenesis has been well investigated, the underlying mechanism of CAFs activation by neighboring cancer cells remains elusive. In this study, we aim to investigate the signaling pathways involved in CAFs activation by gastric cancer cells (GC) and to provide insights into the therapeutic targeting of CAFs for overcoming GC. METHODS Alteration of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) activity in CAFs was analyzed using phospho-RTK array. The expression of CAFs effector genes was determined by RT-qPCR or ELISA. The migration and invasion of GC cells co-cultured with CAFs were examined by transwell migration/invasion assay. RESULTS We found that conditioned media (CM) from GC cells could activate multiple receptor tyrosine kinase signaling pathways, including ERK, AKT, and STAT3. Phospho-RTK array analysis showed that CM from GC cells activated PDGFR tyrosine phosphorylation, but only AKT activation was PDGFR-dependent. Furthermore, we found that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a member of the CCN family, was the most pronouncedly induced CAFs effector gene by GC cells. Knockdown of CTGF impaired the ability of CAFs to promote GC cell migration and invasion. Although the PDGFR-AKT pathway was pronouncedly activated in CAFs stimulated by GC cells, its pharmacological inhibition affected neither CTGF induction nor CAFs-induced GC cell migration. Unexpectedly, the knockdown of SRC and SRC-family kinase inhibitors, dasatinib and saracatinib, significantly impaired CTGF induction in activated CAFs and the migration of GC cells co-cultured with CAFs. SRC inhibitors restored the reduced expression of epithelial markers, E-cadherin and Zonula Occludens-1 (ZO-1), in GC cells co-cultured with CAFs, as well as CAFs-induced aggregate formation in a 3D tumor spheroid model. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a characterization of the signaling pathways and effector genes involved in CAFs activation, and strategies that could effectively inhibit it in the context of GC. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoung-Min Choi
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Boram Kim
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Su-Min Lee
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jisoo Han
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Ha-Song Bae
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Su-Bhin Han
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Dagyeong Lee
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- Inflamm-Aging Translational Research Center, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- AI-Super Convergence KIURI Translational Research Center, Suwon, South Korea
| | - In-Hye Ham
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- Inflamm-Aging Translational Research Center, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Hoon Hur
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- Inflamm-Aging Translational Research Center, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Eunjung Kim
- Natural Product Informatics Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung, South Korea
| | - Jae-Young Kim
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea.
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19
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Qin L, Wu J. Targeting anticancer immunity in oral cancer: Drugs, products, and nanoparticles. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 239:116751. [PMID: 37507044 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Oral cavity carcinomas are the most frequent malignancies among head and neck malignancies. Oral tumors include not only oral cancer cells with different potency and stemness but also consist of diverse cells, containing anticancer immune cells, stromal and also immunosuppressive cells that influence the immune system reactions. The infiltrated T and natural killer (NK) cells are the substantial tumor-suppressive immune compartments in the tumor. The infiltration of these cells has substantial impacts on the response of tumors to immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Nevertheless, cancer cells, stromal cells, and some other compartments like regulatory T cells (Tregs), macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) can repress the immune responses against malignant cells. Boosting anticancer immunity by inducing the immune system or repressing the tumor-promoting cells is one of the intriguing approaches for the eradication of malignant cells such as oral cancers. This review aims to concentrate on the secretions and interactions in the oral tumor immune microenvironment. We review targeting tumor stroma, immune system and immunosuppressive interactions in oral tumors. This review will also focus on therapeutic targets and therapeutic agents such as nanoparticles and products with anti-tumor potency that can boost anticancer immunity in oral tumors. We also explain possible future perspectives including delivery of various cells, natural products and drugs by nanoparticles for boosting anticancer immunity in oral tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liling Qin
- Gezhouba Central Hospital of the Third Clinical Medical College of Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Jianan Wu
- Experimental and Practical Teaching Center, Hubei College of Chinese Medicine, Jingzhou, Hubei, 434000, China.
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20
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Cui Z, Ruan Z, Li M, Ren R, Ma Y, Zeng J, Sun J, Ye W, Xu W, Guo X, Xu D, Zhang L. Obstructive sleep apnea promotes the progression of lung cancer by modulating cancer cell invasion and cancer-associated fibroblast activation via TGFβ signaling. Redox Rep 2023; 28:2279813. [PMID: 38010093 PMCID: PMC11001276 DOI: 10.1080/13510002.2023.2279813] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with severity of pneumonia; however, the mechanism by which OSA promotes lung cancer progression is unclear. METHODS Twenty-five lung cancer patients were recruited to investigate the relationship between OSA and cancer-associated fibroblast (CAFs) activation. Lung cancer cells (A549) and WI38 fibroblast cells were used to explore the hypoxia-induced TGFβ expression using qPCR, Western blot, and ELISA. Wound healing and transwell assays were performed to evaluate cancer cell migration and invasion. A549 or A549-Luc + WI38 xenograft mouse models were established to detect the intermittent hypoxia (IH) associated with lung tumor growth and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vivo. RESULTS OSA promotes CAF activation and enrichment in lung cancer patients. Hypoxia (OSA-like treatment) activated TGFβ signaling in both lung cancer cells and fibroblasts, which promoted cancer cell migration and invasion, and enriched CAFs. IH promoted the progression and EMT process of lung cancer xenograft tumor. Co-inoculation of lung cancer cells and fibroblast cells could further promote lung cancer progression. CONCLUSIONS IH promotes lung cancer progression by upregulating TGFβ signaling, promoting lung cancer cell migration, and increasing the CAF activation and proportion of lung tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilei Cui
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, XinHua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhengshang Ruan
- Department of Infectious Disease, XinHua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meigui Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, XinHua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rongrong Ren
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yizong Ma
- Pharmacy Management Department, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junxiang Zeng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, XinHua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinyuan Sun
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, XinHua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenjing Ye
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, XinHua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weiguo Xu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, XinHua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Guo
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, XinHua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dengfei Xu
- Department of Oncology, Henan Key Laboratory for Precision Medicine in Cancer, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan University People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
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21
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Liao Y, Meng Q. Protection against cancer therapy-induced cardiovascular injury by planed-derived polyphenols and nanomaterials. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 238:116896. [PMID: 37586453 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Cancer therapy-induced heart injury is a significant concern for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and also targeted molecular therapy. The use of these treatments can lead to oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte damage in the heart, which can result in heart failure and other cardiac complications. Experimental studies have revealed that chemotherapy drugs such as doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide can cause severe side effects such as cardiac fibrosis, electrophysiological remodeling, chronic oxidative stress and inflammation, etc., which may increase risk of cardiac disorders and attacks for patients that underwent chemotherapy. Similar consequences may also be observed for patients that undergo radiotherapy for left breast or lung malignancies. Polyphenols, a group of natural compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, have shown the potential in protecting against cancer therapy-induced heart injury. These compounds have been found to reduce oxidative stress, necrosis and apoptosis in the heart, thereby preserving cardiac function. In recent years, nanoparticles loaded with polyphenols have also provided for the delivery of these compounds and increasing their efficacy in different organs. These nanoparticles can improve the bioavailability and efficacy of polyphenols while minimizing their toxicity. This review article summarizes the current understanding of the protective effects of polyphenols and nanoparticles loaded with polyphenols against cancer therapy-induced heart injury. The article discusses the mechanisms by which polyphenols protect the heart, including antioxidant and anti-inflammation abilities. The article also highlights the potential benefits of using nanoparticles for the delivery of polyphenols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunshu Liao
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The First Hospital Affiliated to the Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Qinghua Meng
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The First Hospital Affiliated to the Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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22
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Zhao Q, Yang W, Li X, Yuan H, Guo J, Wang Y, Shan Z. MicroRNA-499-5p inhibits transforming growth factor-β1-induced Smad2 signaling pathway and suppresses fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis in rat by targeting TGFβ-R1. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:9757-9767. [PMID: 37676431 PMCID: PMC10676300 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08755-0] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artial fibrosis has been recognized as a typical pathological change in atrial fibrillation. Although present evidence suggests that microRNA-499-5p (miR-499-5p) plays an important role in the development of atrial fibrosis, the specific mechanism is not fully understood. Therefore, this study attempted to assess the influence of miR-499-5p on atrial fibroblasts and explore the potential molecular mechanism. METHODS Atrial fibroblasts from sprague dawley rat were respectively transfected with miR-499-5p mimic, miR-499-5p negative control and miR-499-5p inhibitor, atrial fibroblasts without any treatment were also established. Cell counting kit-8 assay and transwell assay were used to detect the proliferation and migration of atrial fibroblasts in each group. Expressions of miR-499-5p, TGF-β1, smad2, α-SMA, collagen-I and TGFβ-R1 in mRNA and protein level were subsequently detected via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot. Furthermore, the prediction of the binding sites of miR-499-5p and TGFβ-R1 was performed via the bioinformatics online software TargetScan and verified by dual luciferase reporter. RESULTS By utilizing miR-499-5p-transfected atrial fibroblasts model, expression of miR-499-5p in the miR-499-5p mimic group was upregulated, while it was downregulated in the miR-499-5p inhibitors group. Upregulated miR-499-5p expression led to to a significant decrease in the proliferative and migratory ability of cultured atrial fibroblasts, while downregulated miR-499-5p expression led to a significant increase in the proliferative and migratory ability of cultured atrial fibroblasts. Additionally, upregulated miR-499-5p expression made a significant rise in TGF-β1-induced mRNA and protein expression of TGF-β1, TGFβ-R1, smad2, α-SMA and collagen-I in atrial fibroblasts. Furthermore, results from the dual luciferase reporter conformed that miR-499-5p may repress TGFβ-R1 by binding the 3'UTR of TGFβ-R1 directly. CONCLUSIONS miR-499-5p is able to inhibit the activation of transforming growth factor β-induced Smad2 signaling and eventually suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of atrial fibroblasts and collagen synthesis by targeting TGFβ-R1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhao
- Chinese PLA Medical Academy, Beijing, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Sixth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wentao Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Peking University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Hongtao Yuan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Sixth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | - Yutang Wang
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoliang Shan
- Chinese PLA Medical Academy, Beijing, China.
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Sixth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
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23
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Almeida SFF, Santos L, Sampaio-Ribeiro G, Ferreira HRS, Lima N, Caetano R, Abreu M, Zuzarte M, Ribeiro AS, Paiva A, Martins-Marques T, Teixeira P, Almeida R, Casanova JM, Girão H, Abrunhosa AJ, Gomes CM. Unveiling the role of osteosarcoma-derived secretome in premetastatic lung remodelling. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:328. [PMID: 38031171 PMCID: PMC10688015 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02886-9] [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: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung metastasis is the most adverse clinical factor and remains the leading cause of osteosarcoma-related death. Deciphering the mechanisms driving metastatic spread is crucial for finding open therapeutic windows for successful organ-specific interventions that may halt or prevent lung metastasis. METHODS We employed a mouse premetastatic lung-based multi-omics integrative approach combined with clinical features to uncover the specific changes that precede lung metastasis formation and identify novel molecular targets and biomarker of clinical utility that enable the design of novel therapeutic strategies. RESULTS We found that osteosarcoma-bearing mice or those preconditioned with the osteosarcoma cell secretome harbour profound lung structural alterations with airway damage, inflammation, neutrophil infiltration, and extracellular matrix remodelling with increased deposition of fibronectin and collagens by resident stromal activated fibroblasts, favouring the adhesion of disseminated tumour cells. Systemic-induced microenvironmental changes, supported by transcriptomic and histological data, promoted and accelerated lung metastasis formation. Comparative proteome profiling of the cell secretome and mouse plasma identified a large number of proteins involved in extracellular-matrix organization, cell-matrix adhesion, neutrophil degranulation, and cytokine-mediated signalling, consistent with the observed lung microenvironmental changes. Moreover, we identified EFEMP1, an extracellular matrix glycoprotein exclusively secreted by metastatic cells, in the plasma of mice bearing a primary tumour and in biopsy specimens from osteosarcoma patients with poorer overall survival. Depletion of EFEMP1 from the secretome prevents the formation of lung metastasis. CONCLUSIONS Integration of our data uncovers neutrophil infiltration and the functional contribution of stromal-activated fibroblasts in ECM remodelling for tumour cell attachment as early pro-metastatic events, which may hold therapeutic potential in preventing or slowing the metastatic spread. Moreover, we identified EFEMP1, a secreted glycoprotein, as a metastatic driver and a potential candidate prognostic biomarker for lung metastasis in osteosarcoma patients. Osteosarcoma-derived secreted factors systemically reprogrammed the lung microenvironment and fostered a growth-permissive niche for incoming disseminated cells to survive and outgrow into overt metastasis. Daily administration of osteosarcoma cell secretome mimics the systemic release of tumour-secreted factors of a growing tumour in mice during PMN formation; Transcriptomic and histological analysis of premetastatic lungs revealed inflammatory-induced stromal fibroblast activation, neutrophil infiltration, and ECM remodelling as early onset pro-metastatic events; Proteome profiling identified EFEMP1, an extracellular secreted glycoprotein, as a potential predictive biomarker for lung metastasis and poor prognosis in osteosarcoma patients. Osteosarcoma patients with EFEMP1 expressing biopsies have a poorer overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara F F Almeida
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS) and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Liliana Santos
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS) and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Gabriela Sampaio-Ribeiro
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Hugo R S Ferreira
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Nuno Lima
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Rui Caetano
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-561, Portugal
| | - Mónica Abreu
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Ageing (MIA), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mónica Zuzarte
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Ribeiro
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Artur Paiva
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
- Flow Cytometry Unit, Department of Clinical Pathology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Tânia Martins-Marques
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Paulo Teixeira
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-561, Portugal
| | - Rui Almeida
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-561, Portugal
| | - José Manuel Casanova
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
- Tumor Unit of the Locomotor Apparatus (UTAL), Orthopedics Service, Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), University Clinic of Orthopedics, Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Henrique Girão
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Antero J Abrunhosa
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS) and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Célia M Gomes
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal.
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal.
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal.
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Yu TY, Zhang G, Chai XX, Ren L, Yin DC, Zhang CY. Recent progress on the effect of extracellular matrix on occurrence and progression of breast cancer. Life Sci 2023; 332:122084. [PMID: 37716504 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) metastasis is an enormous challenge targeting BC therapy. The extracellular matrix (ECM), the principal component of the BC metastasis niche, is the pivotal driver of breast tumor development, whose biochemical and biophysical characteristics have attracted widespread attention. Here, we review the biological effects of ECM constituents and the influence of ECM stiffness on BC metastasis and drug resistance. We provide an overview of the relative signal transduction mechanisms, existing metastasis models, and targeted drug strategies centered around ECM stiffness. It will shed light on exploring more underlying targets and developing specific drugs aimed at ECM utilizing biomimetic platforms, which are promising for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong-Yao Yu
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Xiao-Xia Chai
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Li Ren
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shanxi, PR China; Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Northwestern Polytechnical University, Ningbo 315103, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Da-Chuan Yin
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shanxi, PR China.
| | - Chen-Yan Zhang
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shanxi, PR China.
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25
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Axemaker H, Plesselova S, Calar K, Jorgensen M, Wollman J, de la Puente P. Normal Uterine Fibroblast Are Reprogramed into Ovarian Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts by Ovarian Tumor-derived Conditioned Media. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.29.560158. [PMID: 37873479 PMCID: PMC10592803 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.29.560158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key contributors to ovarian cancer (OC) progression and therapeutic resistance through dysregulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). CAFs are a heterogenous population derived from different cell types through activation and reprogramming. Current studies rely on uncharacterized heterogenous primary CAFs or normal fibroblasts that fail to recapitulate CAF-like tumor behavior. Here, we present a translatable-based approach for the reprogramming of normal uterine fibroblasts into ovarian CAFs using ovarian tumor-derived conditioned media to establish two well-characterized ovarian conditioned CAF lines. Phenotypic and functional characterization demonstrated that the conditioned CAFs expressed a CAF-like phenotype, strengthened proliferation, secretory, contractility, and ECM remodeling properties when compared to resting normal fibroblasts, consistent with an activated fibroblast status. Moreover, conditioned CAFs significantly enhanced drug resistance and tumor progression and resembled a CAF-like subtype associated with worse prognosis. The present study provides a reproducible, cost-effective, and clinically relevant protocol to reprogram normal fibroblasts into CAFs using tumor-derived conditioned media. Using these resources, further development of therapeutics that possess potentiality and specificity towards CAF-mediated chemoresistance in OC are further warranted.
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26
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Liu Y, Hu Y, Xue J, Li J, Yi J, Bu J, Zhang Z, Qiu P, Gu X. Advances in immunotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:145. [PMID: 37660039 PMCID: PMC10474743 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01850-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy has recently emerged as a treatment strategy which stimulates the human immune system to kill tumor cells. Tumor immunotherapy is based on immune editing, which enhances the antigenicity of tumor cells and increases the tumoricidal effect of immune cells. It also suppresses immunosuppressive molecules, activates or restores immune system function, enhances anti-tumor immune responses, and inhibits the growth f tumor cell. This offers the possibility of reducing mortality in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). MAIN BODY Immunotherapy approaches for TNBC have been diversified in recent years, with breakthroughs in the treatment of this entity. Research on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has made it possible to identify different molecular subtypes and formulate individualized immunotherapy schedules. This review highlights the unique tumor microenvironment of TNBC and integrates and analyzes the advances in ICI therapy. It also discusses strategies for the combination of ICIs with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and emerging treatment methods such as nanotechnology, ribonucleic acid vaccines, and gene therapy. Currently, numerous ongoing or completed clinical trials are exploring the utilization of immunotherapy in conjunction with existing treatment modalities for TNBC. The objective of these investigations is to assess the effectiveness of various combined immunotherapy approaches and determine the most effective treatment regimens for patients with TNBC. CONCLUSION This review provides insights into the approaches used to overcome drug resistance in immunotherapy, and explores the directions of immunotherapy development in the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yueting Hu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jinqi Xue
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jingying Li
- Department of Health Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jiang Yi
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jiawen Bu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Zhenyong Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Peng Qiu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Xi Gu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China.
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27
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Li M, Wu B, Li L, Lv C, Tian Y. Reprogramming of cancer-associated fibroblasts combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors: A potential therapeutic strategy for cancers. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188945. [PMID: 37356739 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188945] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Activated fibroblasts, namely cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), are highly heterogeneous in phenotypes, functions, and origins. CAFs originated from varieties of cell types, including local resident fibroblasts, epithelial cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, or others. These cells participate in tumor angiogenesis, mechanics, drug access, and immune suppression, with the latter being particularly important. It was difficult to distinguish CAFs by subsets due to their complex origins until the use of scRNA-seq. Reprogramming CAFs with TGFβ-RI inhibitor, a CXCR4 blocker, or other methods increases T cells activation and infiltration, together with a decrease in CAFs recruitment, thus improving the prognosis. As depletion of CAFs can't bring clinical benefit, the combination of reprogramming CAFs and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) come into consideration. It has shown better outcomes compared with monotherapy respectively in basic/preclinical researches, and needs more data on clinical trials. Combination therapy may be a promising and expecting method for treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- Department of Mammary Gland, Dalian Women and Children's Medical Center(Group), No. 1 Dunhuang Road, Dalian 116000, Liaoning Province, China; Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No.36.Sanhao Street, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Baokang Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No.36.Sanhao Street, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lunxu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No.36.Sanhao Street, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Chao Lv
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No.36.Sanhao Street, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yu Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No.36.Sanhao Street, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China.
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28
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de Barros NR, Gomez A, Ermis M, Falcone N, Haghniaz R, Young P, Gao Y, Aquino AF, Li S, Niu S, Chen R, Huang S, Zhu Y, Eliahoo P, Sun A, Khorsandi D, Kim J, Kelber J, Khademhosseini A, Kim HJ, Li B. Gelatin methacryloyl and Laponite bioink for 3D bioprinted organotypic tumor modeling. Biofabrication 2023; 15:10.1088/1758-5090/ace0db. [PMID: 37348491 PMCID: PMC10683563 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ace0db] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D)in vitrotumor models that can capture the pathophysiology of human tumors are essential for cancer biology and drug development. However, simulating the tumor microenvironment is still challenging because it consists of a heterogeneous mixture of various cellular components and biological factors. In this regard, current extracellular matrix (ECM)-mimicking hydrogels used in tumor tissue engineering lack physical interactions that can keep biological factors released by encapsulated cells within the hydrogel and improve paracrine interactions. Here, we developed a nanoengineered ion-covalent cross-linkable bioink to construct 3D bioprinted organotypic tumor models. The bioink was designed to implement the tumor ECM by creating an interpenetrating network composed of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA), a light cross-linkable polymer, and synthetic nanosilicate (Laponite) that exhibits a unique ionic charge to improve retention of biological factors released by the encapsulated cells and assist in paracrine signals. The physical properties related to printability were evaluated to analyze the effect of Laponite hydrogel on bioink. Low GelMA (5%) with high Laponite (2.5%-3.5%) composite hydrogels and high GelMA (10%) with low Laponite (1.0%-2.0%) composite hydrogels showed acceptable mechanical properties for 3D printing. However, a low GelMA composite hydrogel with a high Laponite content could not provide acceptable cell viability. Fluorescent cell labeling studies showed that as the proportion of Laponite increased, the cells became more aggregated to form larger 3D tumor structures. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot experiments showed that an increase in the Laponite ratio induces upregulation of growth factor and tissue remodeling-related genes and proteins in tumor cells. In contrast, cell cycle and proliferation-related genes were downregulated. On the other hand, concerning fibroblasts, the increase in the Laponite ratio indicated an overall upregulation of the mesenchymal phenotype-related genes and proteins. Our study may provide a rationale for using Laponite-based hydrogels in 3D cancer modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natan Roberto de Barros
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
| | - Alejandro Gomez
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- Autonomy Research Center for STEAHM (ARCS), California State University, Northridge, CA 91324, United States of America
- Department of Biology, California State University, Northridge, CA 91330, United States of America
| | - Menekse Ermis
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, 101 Bagby Ave, TX 76706, United Ustates of America
| | - Natashya Falcone
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
| | - Reihaneh Haghniaz
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
| | - Patric Young
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
| | - Yaqi Gao
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- Autonomy Research Center for STEAHM (ARCS), California State University, Northridge, CA 91324, United States of America
| | - Albert-Fred Aquino
- Department of Biology, California State University, Northridge, CA 91330, United States of America
| | - Siyuan Li
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- Autonomy Research Center for STEAHM (ARCS), California State University, Northridge, CA 91324, United States of America
- METU Center of Excellence in Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Middle East Technical University, Ankara 06800, Turkey
| | - Siyi Niu
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- Autonomy Research Center for STEAHM (ARCS), California State University, Northridge, CA 91324, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States of America
| | - RunRun Chen
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- Autonomy Research Center for STEAHM (ARCS), California State University, Northridge, CA 91324, United States of America
| | - Shuyi Huang
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- Autonomy Research Center for STEAHM (ARCS), California State University, Northridge, CA 91324, United States of America
| | - Yangzhi Zhu
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
| | - Payam Eliahoo
- Department of Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - Arthur Sun
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- Autonomy Research Center for STEAHM (ARCS), California State University, Northridge, CA 91324, United States of America
- College of Pharmacy, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Danial Khorsandi
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
| | - Jinjoo Kim
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
| | - Jonathan Kelber
- Department of Biology, California State University, Northridge, CA 91330, United States of America
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States of America
| | - Ali Khademhosseini
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
| | - Han-Jun Kim
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- College of Pharmacy, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Bingbing Li
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States of America
- Autonomy Research Center for STEAHM (ARCS), California State University, Northridge, CA 91324, United States of America
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Spasovski V, Andjelkovic M, Parezanovic M, Komazec J, Ugrin M, Klaassen K, Stojiljkovic M. The Role of Autophagy and Apoptosis in Affected Skin and Lungs in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11212. [PMID: 37446389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311212] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune inflammatory disorder with multiple organ involvement. Skin changes present the hallmark of SSc and coincide with poor prognosis. Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are the most widely reported complications in SSc patients and the primary cause of death. It has been proposed that the processes of autophagy and apoptosis could play a significant role in the pathogenesis and clinical course of different autoimmune diseases, and accordingly in SSc. In this manuscript, we review the current knowledge of autophagy and apoptosis processes in the skin and lungs of patients with SSc. Profiling of markers involved in these processes in skin cells can be useful to recognize the stage of fibrosis and can be used in the clinical stratification of patients. Furthermore, the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes enables the repurposing of already known drugs and the development of new biological therapeutics that aim to reverse fibrosis by promoting apoptosis and regulate autophagy in personalized treatment approach. In SSc-ILD patients, the molecular signature of the lung tissues of each patient could be a distinctive criterion in order to establish the correct lung pattern, which directly impacts the course and prognosis of the disease. In this case, resolving the role of tissue-specific markers, which could be detected in the circulation using sensitive molecular methods, would be an important step toward development of non-invasive diagnostic procedures that enable early and precise diagnosis and preventing the high mortality of this rare disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vesna Spasovski
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Andjelkovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Parezanovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana Komazec
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milena Ugrin
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Kristel Klaassen
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Maja Stojiljkovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
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Tunable hybrid hydrogels with multicellular spheroids for modeling desmoplastic pancreatic cancer. Bioact Mater 2023; 25:360-373. [PMID: 36879666 PMCID: PMC9984297 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment consists of diverse, complex etiological factors. The matrix component of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) plays an important role not only in physical properties such as tissue rigidity but also in cancer progression and therapeutic responsiveness. Although significant efforts have been made to model desmoplastic PDAC, existing models could not fully recapitulate the etiology to mimic and understand the progression of PDAC. Here, two major components in desmoplastic pancreatic matrices, hyaluronic acid- and gelatin-based hydrogels, are engineered to provide matrices for tumor spheroids composed of PDAC and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). Shape analysis profiles reveals that incorporating CAF contributes to a more compact tissue formation. Higher expression levels of markers associated with proliferation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, mechanotransduction, and progression are observed for cancer-CAF spheroids cultured in hyper desmoplastic matrix-mimicking hydrogels, while the trend can be observed when those are cultured in desmoplastic matrix-mimicking hydrogels with the presence of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). The proposed multicellular pancreatic tumor model, in combination with proper mechanical properties and TGF-β1 supplement, makes strides in developing advanced pancreatic models for resembling and monitoring the progression of pancreatic tumors, which could be potentially applicable for realizing personalized medicine and drug testing applications.
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31
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Czajka-Francuz P, Prendes MJ, Mankan A, Quintana Á, Pabla S, Ramkissoon S, Jensen TJ, Peiró S, Severson EA, Achyut BR, Vidal L, Poelman M, Saini KS. Mechanisms of immune modulation in the tumor microenvironment and implications for targeted therapy. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1200646. [PMID: 37427115 PMCID: PMC10325690 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1200646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of cancer therapies is limited to a great extent by immunosuppressive mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Numerous immune escape mechanisms have been identified. These include not only processes associated with tumor, immune or stromal cells, but also humoral, metabolic, genetic and epigenetic factors within the TME. The identification of immune escape mechanisms has enabled the development of small molecules, nanomedicines, immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell and epigenetic therapies that can reprogram the TME and shift the host immune response towards promoting an antitumor effect. These approaches have translated into series of breakthroughs in cancer therapies, some of which have already been implemented in clinical practice. In the present article the authors provide an overview of some of the most important mechanisms of immunosuppression within the TME and the implications for targeted therapies against different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ángela Quintana
- Breast Cancer Unit, Vall d'Hebrón Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Sandra Peiró
- Breast Cancer Unit, Vall d'Hebrón Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Kamal S. Saini
- Fortrea, Inc., Durham, NC, United States
- Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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32
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Vinod N, Hwang D, Fussell SC, Owens TC, Tofade OC, Copling S, Ramsey JD, Rädler PD, Atkins HM, Livingston EE, Ezzell JA, Sokolsky-Papkov M, Yuan H, Perou CM, Kabanov AV. Combination of Polymeric Micelle Formulation of TGFβ Receptor Inhibitors and Paclitaxel Produce Consistent Response Across Different Mouse Models of TNBC. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.14.544381. [PMID: 37398150 PMCID: PMC10312717 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.14.544381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is notoriously difficult to treat due to the lack of targetable receptors and sometimes poor response to chemotherapy. The transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) family of proteins and their receptors (TGFR) are highly expressed in TNBC and implicated in chemotherapy-induced cancer stemness. Here we evaluated combination treatments using experimental TGFR inhibitors (TGFβi), SB525334 (SB), and LY2109761 (LY) with Paclitaxel (PTX) chemotherapy. These TGFβi target TGFR-I (SB) or both TGFR-I&II (LY). Due to the poor water solubility of these drugs, we incorporated each of them in poly(2-oxazoline) (POx) high-capacity polymeric micelles (SB-POx and LY-POx). We assessed their anti-cancer effect as single agents and in combination with micellar Paclitaxel (PTX-POx) using multiple immunocompetent TNBC mouse models that mimic human subtypes (4T1, T11-Apobec and T11-UV). While either TGFβi or PTX showed a differential effect in each model as single agents, the combinations were consistently effective against all three models. Genetic profiling of the tumors revealed differences in the expression levels of genes associated with TGFβ, EMT, TLR-4, and Bcl2 signaling, alluding to the susceptibility to specific gene signatures to the treatment. Taken together, our study suggests that TGFβi and PTX combination therapy using high-capacity POx micelle delivery provides a robust anti-tumor response in multiple TNBC subtype mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Vinod
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
- Joint UNC/NC State Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Duhyeong Hwang
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Sloane Christian Fussell
- Department of Biology, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Tyler Cannon Owens
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Olaoluwa Christopher Tofade
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Sage Copling
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Jacob D. Ramsey
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Patrick D. Rädler
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States
| | - Hannah M. Atkins
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Division of Comparative Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Eric E. Livingston
- Biomedical Research Imaging Center, Department of Radiology, and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - J. Ashley Ezzell
- Histology Research Core, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Marina Sokolsky-Papkov
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Hong Yuan
- Biomedical Research Imaging Center, Department of Radiology, and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Charles M. Perou
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States
| | - Alexander V. Kabanov
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
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Liu D, Peng Y, Li X, Zhu Z, Mi Z, Zhang Z, Fan H. Comprehensive landscape of TGFβ-related signature in osteosarcoma for predicting prognosis, immune characteristics, and therapeutic response. J Bone Oncol 2023; 40:100484. [PMID: 37234254 PMCID: PMC10205544 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2023.100484] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a highly heterogeneous malignant bone tumor, and its tendency to metastasize leads to a poor prognosis. TGFβ is an important regulator in the tumor microenvironment and is closely associated with the progression of various types of cancer. However, the role of TGFβ-related genes in OS is still unclear. In this study, we identified 82 TGFβ DEGs based on RNA-seq data from the TARGET and GETx databases and classified OS patients into two TGFβ subtypes. The KM curve showed that the Cluster 2 patients had a substantially poorer prognosis than the Cluster 1 patients. Subsequently, a novel TGFβ prognostic signatures (MYC and BMP8B) were developed based on the results of univariate, LASSO, and multifactorial Cox analyses. These signatures showed robust and reliable predictive performance for the prognosis of OS in the training and validation cohorts. To predict the three-year and five-year survival rate of OS, a nomogram that integrated clinical features and risk scores was also developed. The GSEA analysis showed that the different subgroups analyzed had distinct functions, particularly, the low-risk group was associated with high immune activity and a high infiltration abundance of CD8 T cells. Moreover, our results indicated that low-risk cases had higher sensitivity to immunotherapy, while high-risk cases were more sensitive to sorafenib and axitinib. scRNA-Seq analysis further revealed that MYC and BMP8B were strongly expressed mainly in tumor stromal cells. Finally, in this study, we confirmed the expression of MYC and BMP8B by performing qPCR, WB, and IHC analyses. To conclude, we developed and validated a TGFβ-related signature to accurately predict the prognosis of OS. Our findings might contribute to personalized treatment and making better clinical decisions for OS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Liu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Xi-jing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Ye Peng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Xian Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhijie Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Xi-jing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Zhenzhou Mi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Xi-jing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Zhao Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Xi-jing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Hongbin Fan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Xi-jing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
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34
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De Gregorio C, Catalán E, Garrido G, Morandé P, Bennett JC, Muñoz C, Cofré G, Huang YL, Cuadra B, Murgas P, Calvo M, Altermatt F, Yubero MJ, Palisson F, South AP, Ezquer M, Fuentes I. Maintenance of chronicity signatures in fibroblasts isolated from recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa chronic wound dressings under culture conditions. Biol Res 2023; 56:23. [PMID: 37161592 PMCID: PMC10170710 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-023-00437-2] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (RDEB) is a rare inherited skin disease caused by variants in the COL7A1 gene, coding for type VII collagen (C7), an important component of anchoring fibrils in the basement membrane of the epidermis. RDEB patients suffer from skin fragility starting with blister formation and evolving into chronic wounds, inflammation and skin fibrosis, with a high risk of developing aggressive skin carcinomas. Restricted therapeutic options are limited by the lack of in vitro models of defective wound healing in RDEB patients. RESULTS In order to explore a more efficient, non-invasive in vitro model for RDEB studies, we obtained patient fibroblasts derived from discarded dressings) and examined their phenotypic features compared with fibroblasts derived from non-injured skin of RDEB and healthy-donor skin biopsies. Our results demonstrate that fibroblasts derived from RDEB chronic wounds (RDEB-CW) displayed characteristics of senescent cells, increased myofibroblast differentiation, and augmented levels of TGF-β1 signaling components compared to fibroblasts derived from RDEB acute wounds and unaffected RDEB skin as well as skin from healthy-donors. Furthermore, RDEB-CW fibroblasts exhibited an increased pattern of inflammatory cytokine secretion (IL-1β and IL-6) when compared with RDEB and control fibroblasts. Interestingly, these aberrant patterns were found specifically in RDEB-CW fibroblasts independent of the culturing method, since fibroblasts obtained from dressing of acute wounds displayed a phenotype more similar to fibroblasts obtained from RDEB normal skin biopsies. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that in vitro cultured RDEB-CW fibroblasts maintain distinctive cellular and molecular characteristics resembling the inflammatory and fibrotic microenvironment observed in RDEB patients' chronic wounds. This work describes a novel, non-invasive and painless strategy to obtain human fibroblasts chronically subjected to an inflammatory and fibrotic environment, supporting their use as an accessible model for in vitro studies of RDEB wound healing pathogenesis. As such, this approach is well suited to testing new therapeutic strategies under controlled laboratory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian De Gregorio
- Centro de Medicina Regenerativa, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, 7610658, Chile
| | - Evelyng Catalán
- DEBRA Chile, Francisco de Villagra 392, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gabriel Garrido
- DEBRA Chile, Francisco de Villagra 392, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pilar Morandé
- DEBRA Chile, Francisco de Villagra 392, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Catalina Muñoz
- DEBRA Chile, Francisco de Villagra 392, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile
| | - Glenda Cofré
- DEBRA Chile, Francisco de Villagra 392, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ya-Lin Huang
- Centro de Medicina Regenerativa, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, 7610658, Chile
| | - Bárbara Cuadra
- Centro de Medicina Regenerativa, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, 7610658, Chile
| | - Paola Murgas
- Instituto de Bioquímica y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Margarita Calvo
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas y División de Anestesiología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Núcleo milenio para el estudio del dolor MINUSPAIN, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fernando Altermatt
- División de Anestesiología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - María Joao Yubero
- DEBRA Chile, Francisco de Villagra 392, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile
- Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases of Clínica Alemana, Facultad de Medicina Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francis Palisson
- DEBRA Chile, Francisco de Villagra 392, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile
- Servicio de Dermatología, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Andrew P South
- Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Marcelo Ezquer
- Centro de Medicina Regenerativa, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, 7610658, Chile.
| | - Ignacia Fuentes
- DEBRA Chile, Francisco de Villagra 392, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile.
- Centro de Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, 7610658, Chile.
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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35
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Oh S, Lee JH, Kim HM, Batsukh S, Sung MJ, Lim TH, Lee MH, Son KH, Byun K. Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers Improved Dermal Collagen Synthesis by Modulating M2 Macrophage Polarization in Aged Animal Skin. Cells 2023; 12:cells12091320. [PMID: 37174720 PMCID: PMC10177436 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers correct cutaneous volume loss by stimulating fibroblasts to synthesize collagen and by augmenting the volume. PLLA triggers the macrophage-induced activation of fibroblasts that secrete transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). However, whether M2 macrophage polarization is involved in PLLA-induced collagen synthesis via fibroblast activation in aged skin is not known. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of PLLA on dermal collagen synthesis via M2 polarization in an H2O2-induced cellular senescence model and aged animal skin. H2O2-treated macrophages had increased expression levels of the M1 marker CD80 and decreased expression levels of the M2 marker CD163, which were reversed by PLLA. The expression levels of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13, which mediate M2 polarization, were decreased in H2O2-treated macrophages and increased upon the PLLA treatment. CD163, IL-4, and IL-13 expression levels were decreased in aged skin, but increased after the PLLA treatment. The expression levels of TGF-β, pSMAD2/SMAD2, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen type 1A1 (COL1A1), and COL3A1 were also decreased in aged skin, but increased after the PLLA treatment. Moreover, PLLA upregulated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase p85α (PI3-kinase p85α)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling, leading to fibroblast proliferation. PLLA decreased the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 and MMP3, which destroy collagen and elastin fibers in aged skin. The amount of collagen and elastin fibers in aged skin increased following the PLLA treatment. In conclusion, PLLA causes M2 polarization by increasing IL-4 and IL-13 levels and upregulating TGF-β expression and collagen synthesis in aged skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyeon Oh
- Functional Cellular Networks Laboratory, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Je Hyuk Lee
- Doctorbom Clinic, Seoul 06614, Republic of Korea
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung Moon Kim
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea
| | - Sosorburam Batsukh
- Functional Cellular Networks Laboratory, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | - Kuk Hui Son
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University, Incheon 21565, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyunghee Byun
- Functional Cellular Networks Laboratory, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Gachon Advanced Institute for Health & Sciences and Technology (GAIHST), Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
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Zavaro M, Dangot A, Bar-Lev TH, Amit O, Avivi I, Ram R, Aharon A. The Role of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) in Chronic Graft vs. Host Disease, and the Potential Function of Placental Cell-Derived EVs as a Therapeutic Tool. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098126. [PMID: 37175831 PMCID: PMC10179565 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) presents with dermal inflammation and fibrosis. We investigated the characteristics of extracellular vesicles (EVs) obtained from cGVHD patients, and their potential effects on human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells. The anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects of placental EVs were also explored given their known anti-inflammatory properties. Fourteen cGVHD patients' EVs contained higher levels of fibrosis-related proteins, TGFβ and α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA), compared to EVs from thirteen healthy subjects. The exposure of NHDF cells to the patients' EVs increased the NHDF cells' TGFβ and αSMA expressions. Placental EVs derived from placental-expanded cells (PLX) (Pluri Inc.) and human villous trophoblast (HVT) cells expressing the mesenchymal markers CD29, CD73, and CD105, penetrated into both the epidermal keratinocytes (HACATs) and NHDF cells. Stimulation of the HACAT cells with cytokine TNFα/INFγ (0.01-0.1 ng/µL) reduced cell proliferation, while the addition of placental EVs attenuated this effect, increasing and normalizing cell proliferation. The treatment of NHDF cells with a combination of TGFβ and placental HVT EVs reduced the stimulatory effects of TGFβ on αSMA production by over 40% (p = 0.0286). In summary, EVs from patients with cGVHD can serve as a biomarker for the cGVHD state. Placental EVs may be used to regulate dermal inflammation and fibrosis, warranting further investigation of their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mor Zavaro
- Hematology Research Laboratory, Hematology Division, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Ayelet Dangot
- Hematology Research Laboratory, Hematology Division, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Tali Hana Bar-Lev
- Hematology Research Laboratory, Hematology Division, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Odelia Amit
- The BMT Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Irit Avivi
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
- Hematology Department, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Ron Ram
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
- The BMT Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Anat Aharon
- Hematology Research Laboratory, Hematology Division, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
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Li X, Luo Y, Huang Z, Wang Y, Wu J, Zhou S. Multifunctional Liposomes Remodeling Tumor Immune Microenvironment for Tumor Chemoimmunotherapy. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2201327. [PMID: 37075716 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202201327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In the treatment of solid tumors, the complex barriers composed of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) prevent drug delivery and T cells infiltration into tumor tissues. Although nanocarriers hold great prospects in drug delivery, fibrosis causes the biological barrier and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (ITM) that impairs the anti-tumor efficacy of nanocarriers. Here, a small dendritic macromolecule loaded with doxorubicin (PAMAM-ss-DOX) (DP) is synthesized and encapsulated into pH-responsive nanoliposome, together with adjuvant toll-like receptor 7/8 (TLR7/8) agonist resiquimod (R848) and losartan (LOS). The pH-responsive liposome facilitates the simultaneous and effective delivery of DP, R848, and LOS, which can decompose and release these drugs under the acidic tumor microenvironment. The small sized DP (≈25 nm) with the ability to penetrate into tumor tissue and immunogenic cell death (ICD) can reverse the ITM and elicit immune response, which is equivalent to the effect of an in situ vaccine. Moreover, LOS reduces the activity of CAFs effectively, which can contribute to the infiltration of T cells. Therefore, this nano-platform provides a new therapeutic strategy for enhanced chemo-immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Li
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, P. R. China
| | - Yang Luo
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, P. R. China
| | - Zhengjie Huang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, P. R. China
| | - Yi Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, P. R. China
| | - Jian Wu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, P. R. China
| | - Shaobing Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, P. R. China
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Naik A, Leask A. Tumor-Associated Fibrosis Impairs the Response to Immunotherapy. Matrix Biol 2023; 119:125-140. [PMID: 37080324 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Previously, impaired responses to immunotherapy in cancer had been attributed mainly to inherent tumor characteristics (tumor cell intrinsic factors) such as low immunogenicity, (low) mutational burden, weak host immune system, etc. However, mapping the responses of immunotherapeutic regimes in clinical trials for different types of cancer has pointed towards an obvious commonality - that tumors with a rich fibrotic stroma respond poorly or not at all. This has prompted a harder look on tumor cell extrinsic factors such as the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), and specifically, the fibrotic stroma as a potential enabler of immunotherapy failure. Indeed, the role of cancer-associated fibrosis in impeding efficacy of immunotherapy is now well-established. In fact, recent studies reveal a complex interconnection between fibrosis and treatment efficacy. Accordingly, in this review we provide a general overview of what a tumor associated fibrotic reaction is and how it interacts with the members of immune system that are frequently seen to be modulated in a failed immunotherapeutic regime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angha Naik
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Dentistry, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Andrew Leask
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Dentistry, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
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Zhang HM, Wen DG, Chen J, Chen YT, Yin M, Wang Y, Wei Y, Bao YG, Wu YH, Song B. A diagnostic test of three-dimensional magnetic resonance elastography imaging for preoperative prediction of microvascular invasion in patients with T1 stage clear cell renal carcinoma. Transl Androl Urol 2023; 12:466-476. [PMID: 37032747 PMCID: PMC10080352 DOI: 10.21037/tau-23-94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Detection of microvascular invasion (MVI) of kidney tumors is important for selecting the optimal therapeutic strategy. Currently, the prediction of MVI lacks an accurate imaging biomarker. This study evaluated the performance of three-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) imaging in predicting microvascular invasion (MVI) of T1 stage clear cell renal carcinoma (ccRCC). Methods In this prospective study, we conducted pre-surgical imaging with a clinical 3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. Firstly, 83 consecutive patients were enrolled in this study. A 3D MRE stiffness map was generated and transferred to a post-processing workstation. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) was conducted to calculate the tumor enhancement ratio. The presence of MVI was evaluated by histopathological analysis and graded according to the risk stratification based upon the number and distribution. The mean stiffness and CT tumor enhancement ratio was calculated for tumors with or without MVI. The diagnostic performance [sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, area under the curve (AUC)] and independent predicting factors for MVI were investigated. Results Finally, A total of 80 patients (aged 46.7±13.2 years) were enrolled, including 22 cases of tumors with MVI. The mean MRE stiffness of kidney parenchyma and kidney tumors was 4.8±0.2 and 4.5±0.7 kPa, respectively. There was significant difference in the mean MRE stiffness between tumors with MVI (5.4±0.6 kPa) and tumors without MVI (4.1±0.3 kPa) (P<0.05). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and the AUC for mean stiffness in the prediction of MVI were 100%, 75%, 63%, 96%, and 0.87 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.72, 0.94], respectively. The corresponding values for the CT tumor enhancement ratio were 90%, 80%, 63%, 96%, and 0.88 (95% CI: 0.71, 0.93), respectively. The odds ratio (OR) value for MRE tumor stiffness and CT kidney tumor enhancement ratio in the prediction of MVI was 2.9 (95% CI: 1.8, 3.7) and 1.2 (95% CI: 1.0, 1.7), respectively (P>0.05). Conclusions 3D MRE imaging has promising diagnostic performance for predicting MVI in T1 stage ccRCC, which may improve the reliability of surgical strategy selection with T1 stage ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Mei Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Da-Guang Wen
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yun-Tian Chen
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Meng Yin
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Wei
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi-Ge Bao
- Department of Urology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying-Hua Wu
- Department of Radiology, The Clinical Medicine School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Bin Song
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
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Anerillas C, Altés G, Gorospe M. MAPKs in the early steps of senescence implemEMTation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1083401. [PMID: 37009481 PMCID: PMC10060890 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1083401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence is accumulating that the earliest stages of the DNA damage response can direct cells toward senescence instead of other cell fates. In particular, tightly regulated signaling through Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases (MAPKs) in early senescence can lead to a sustained pro-survival program and suppress a pro-apoptotic program. Importantly, an epithelial-to-mesenchymal Transition (EMT)-like program appears essential for preventing apoptosis and favoring senescence following DNA damage. In this review, we discuss how MAPKs might influence EMT features to promote a senescent phenotype that increases cell survival at the detriment of tissue function.
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Liu Y, Wu Y, Yang M, Yang J, Tong R, Zhao W, Wu F, Tian Y, Li X, Luo J, Zhou H. Ionizing radiation-induced "zombie" carcinoma-associated fibroblasts with suppressed pro-radioresistance on OSCC cells. Oral Dis 2023; 29:563-573. [PMID: 34324756 DOI: 10.1111/odi.13979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study was to investigate the effect of ionizing radiation (IR) on oral carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and to further explore subsequent effects of IR-induced "zombie" CAFs on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS Three primary CAFs and one primary normal-associated fibroblasts (NAFs) were separated from human OSCC and normal oral mucosa tissues, identified by immunocytochemistry. Cells were exposed to IR by X-ray irradiator under different doses. The DNA damage, proliferation, and migration of irradiated CAFs were, respectively, detected by immunofluorescence and wound healing assay, while senescence was detected by β-galactosidase staining. Finally, the effect of irradiated CAFs on biological behavior and radioresistance of Cal-27 cells were determined via assays mentioned above. RESULTS Oral CAFs were sensitive to IR with DNA damage increasing and proliferation decreasing. 18 Gy IR could not kill oral CAFs but induce them to "zombies," with arrested proliferation, increased senescence, and reduced migration. "Zombie" CAFs (zCAFs) could enhance proliferation, migration, and invasion of Cal-27 cells, and show suppressed pro-radioresistance by reducing DNA damage and facilitating survival. CONCLUSIONS IR-induced zCAFs could continuously promote radioresistance of OSCC cells though being suppressed, suggesting the potential promoting effect on tumor relapse post-radiotherapy that needed further exploring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangfan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of General Dentistry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Miao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruizhan Tong
- Department of Thoracic Cancer, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fanglong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuan Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingjing Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongmei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Zhang H, Chen L, Zhao Y, Luo N, Shi J, Xu S, Ma L, Wang M, Gu M, Mu C, Xiong Y. Relaxin-encapsulated polymeric metformin nanoparticles remodel tumor immune microenvironment by reducing CAFs for efficient triple-negative breast cancer immunotherapy. Asian J Pharm Sci 2023; 18:100796. [PMID: 37008735 PMCID: PMC10064789 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2023.100796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the most abundant stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment which mediate desmoplastic response and are the primary driver for an immunosuppressive microenvironment, leading to the failure of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) immunotherapy. Therefore, depleting CAFs may enhance the effect of immunotherapy (such as PD-L1 antibody). Relaxin (RLN) has been demonstrated to significantly improve transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) induced CAFs activation and tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment. However, the short half-life and systemic vasodilation of RLN limit its in vivo efficacy. Here, plasmid encoding relaxin (pRLN) to locally express RLN was delivered with a new positively charged polymer named polymeric metformin (PolyMet), which could increase gene transfer efficiency significantly and have low toxicity that have been certified by our lab before. In order to improve the stability of pRLN in vivo, this complex was further formed lipid poly-γ-glutamic acid (PGA)/PolyMet-pRLN nanoparticle (LPPR). The particle size of LPPR was 205.5 ± 2.9 nm, and the zeta potential was +55.4 ± 1.6 mV. LPPR displayed excellent tumor penetrating efficacy and weaken proliferation of CAFs in 4T1luc/CAFs tumor spheres in vitro. In vivo, it could reverse aberrantly activated CAFs by decreasing the expression of profibrogenic cytokine and remove the physical barrier to reshape the tumor stromal microenvironment, which enabled a 2.2-fold increase in cytotoxic T cell infiltration within the tumor and a decrease in immunosuppressive cells infiltration. Thus, LPPR was observed retarded tumor growth by itself in the 4T1 tumor bearing-mouse, and the reshaped immune microenvironment further led to facilitate antitumor effect when it combined with PD-L1 antibody (aPD-L1). Altogether, this study presented a novel therapeutic approach against tumor stroma using LPPR to achieve a combination regimen with immune checkpoint blockade therapy against the desmoplastic TNBC model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
- Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Liying Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Ningchao Luo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jingbin Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Shujun Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Lisha Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Menglin Wang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Mancang Gu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Chaofeng Mu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yang Xiong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
- Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
- Corresponding author at: School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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TGF-β Pathways Stratify Colorectal Cancer into Two Subtypes with Distinct Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP) Expression-Related Characteristics. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121877. [PMID: 36551305 PMCID: PMC9775768 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancers (CRCs) continue to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The exact landscape of the molecular features of TGF-β pathway-inducing CRCs remains uncharacterized. METHODS Unsupervised hierarchical clustering was performed to stratify samples into two clusters based on the differences in TGF-β pathways. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was applied to identify the key gene modules mediating the different characteristics between two subtypes. An algorithm integrating the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), XGBoost, and random forest regression was performed to narrow down the candidate genes. Further bioinformatic analyses were performed focusing on COMP-related immune infiltration and functions. RESULTS The integrated machine learning algorithm identified COMP as the hub gene, which exhibited a significant predictive value for two subtypes with an area under the curve (AUC) value equaling 0.91. Further bioinformatic analysis revealed that COMP was significantly upregulated in various cancers, especially in advanced CRCs, and regulated the immune infiltration, especially M2 macrophages and cancer-associated fibroblasts in CRCs. CONCLUSIONS Comprehensive immune analysis and experimental validation demonstrate that COMP is a reliable signature for subtype prediction. Our results could provide a new point for TGFβ-targeted anticancer drugs and contribute to guiding clinical decision making for CRC patients.
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Mancarella S, Gigante I, Serino G, Pizzuto E, Dituri F, Valentini MF, Wang J, Chen X, Armentano R, Calvisi DF, Giannelli G. Crenigacestat blocking notch pathway reduces liver fibrosis in the surrounding ecosystem of intrahepatic CCA viaTGF-β inhibition. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:331. [PMID: 36443822 PMCID: PMC9703776 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02536-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a highly malignant tumor characterized by an intensive desmoplastic reaction due to the exaggerated presence of the extracellular (ECM) matrix components. Liver fibroblasts close to the tumor, activated by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and expressing high levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), become cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). CAFs are deputed to produce and secrete ECM components and crosstalk with cancer cells favoring tumor progression and resistance to therapy. Overexpression of Notch signaling is implicated in CCA development and growth. The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Notch inhibitor, Crenigacestat, on the surrounding microenvironment of iCCA. METHODS We investigated Crenigacestat's effectiveness in a PDX model of iCCA and human primary culture of CAFs isolated from patients with iCCA. RESULTS In silico analysis of transcriptomic profiling from PDX iCCA tissues treated with Crenigacestat highlighted "liver fibrosis" as one of the most modulated pathways. In the iCCA PDX model, Crenigacestat treatment significantly (p < 0.001) reduced peritumoral liver fibrosis. Similar results were obtained in a hydrodynamic model of iCCA. Bioinformatic prediction of the upstream regulators related to liver fibrosis in the iCCA PDX treated with Crenigacestat revealed the involvement of the TGF-β1 pathway as a master regulator gene showing a robust connection between TGF-β1 and Notch pathways. Consistently, drug treatment significantly (p < 0.05) reduced TGF-β1 mRNA and protein levels in tumoral tissue. In PDX tissues, Crenigacestat remarkably inhibited TGF-β signaling and extracellular matrix protein gene expression and reduced α-SMA expression. Furthermore, Crenigacestat synergistically increased Gemcitabine effectiveness in the iCCA PDX model. In 31 iCCA patients, TGF-β1 and α-SMA were upregulated in the tumoral compared with peritumoral tissues. In freshly isolated CAFs from patients with iCCA, Crenigacestat significantly (p < 0.001) inhibited Notch signaling, TGF-β1 secretion, and Smad-2 activation. Consequently, Crenigacestat also inactivated CAFs reducing (p < 0.001) α-SMA expression. Finally, CAFs treated with Crenigacestat produced less (p < 005) ECM components such as fibronectin, collagen 1A1, and collagen 1A2. CONCLUSIONS Notch signaling inhibition reduces the peritumoral desmoplastic reaction in iCCA, blocking the TGF-β1 canonical pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Mancarella
- grid.489101.50000 0001 0162 6994National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. De Bellis” Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, 70013 Castellana Grotte, BA Italy
| | - Isabella Gigante
- grid.489101.50000 0001 0162 6994National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. De Bellis” Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, 70013 Castellana Grotte, BA Italy
| | - Grazia Serino
- grid.489101.50000 0001 0162 6994National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. De Bellis” Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, 70013 Castellana Grotte, BA Italy
| | - Elena Pizzuto
- grid.489101.50000 0001 0162 6994National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. De Bellis” Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, 70013 Castellana Grotte, BA Italy
| | - Francesco Dituri
- grid.489101.50000 0001 0162 6994National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. De Bellis” Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, 70013 Castellana Grotte, BA Italy
| | - Maria F. Valentini
- grid.7644.10000 0001 0120 3326Department of Emergency and Organ Transplant, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Jingxiao Wang
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Xin Chen
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Raffaele Armentano
- grid.489101.50000 0001 0162 6994National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. De Bellis” Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, 70013 Castellana Grotte, BA Italy
| | - Diego F. Calvisi
- grid.7727.50000 0001 2190 5763Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- grid.489101.50000 0001 0162 6994National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. De Bellis” Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, 70013 Castellana Grotte, BA Italy
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Liang Q, Xu Z, Liu Y, Peng B, Cai Y, Liu W, Yan Y. NR2F1 Regulates TGF-β1-Mediated Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Affecting Platinum Sensitivity and Immune Response in Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194639. [PMID: 36230565 PMCID: PMC9563458 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism underlying platinum resistance in ovarian cancer (OC) remains unclear. We used bioinformatic analyses to screen differentially expressed genes responsible for platinum resistance and explore NR2F1′s correlation with prognostic implication and OC staging. Moreover, Gene-set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses were used for pathway analysis. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) properties, invasion, and migration capacities were analyzed by biochemical methods. The association between NR2F1 and cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) infiltration and immunotherapeutic responses were also researched. A total of 13 co-upregulated genes and one co-downregulated gene were obtained. Among them, NR2F1 revealed the highest correlation with a poor prognosis and positively correlated with OC staging. GSEA and GO analysis suggested the induction of EMT via TGFβ-1 might be a possible mechanism that NR2F1 participates in resistance. In vitro experiments showed that NR2F1 knockdown did not affect cell proliferation, but suppressed cell invasion and migration with or without cisplatin treatment through the EMT pathway. We also found that NR2F1 could regulate TGF-β1 signaling, and treating with TGF-β1 could reverse these effects. Additionally, NR2F1 was predominantly associated with immunosuppressive CAF infiltration, which might cause a poor response to immune check blockades. In conclusion, NR2F1 regulates TGF-β1-mediated EMT affecting platinum sensitivity and immune response in OC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuju Liang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Zhijie Xu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yuanhong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Bi Peng
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yuan Cai
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yuanliang Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Correspondence:
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Shi X, Yang J, Deng S, Xu H, Wu D, Zeng Q, Wang S, Hu T, Wu F, Zhou H. TGF-β signaling in the tumor metabolic microenvironment and targeted therapies. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:135. [PMID: 36115986 PMCID: PMC9482317 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01349-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractTransforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling has a paradoxical role in cancer progression, and it acts as a tumor suppressor in the early stages but a tumor promoter in the late stages of cancer. Once cancer cells are generated, TGF-β signaling is responsible for the orchestration of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and supports cancer growth, invasion, metastasis, recurrence, and therapy resistance. These progressive behaviors are driven by an “engine” of the metabolic reprogramming in cancer. Recent studies have revealed that TGF-β signaling regulates cancer metabolic reprogramming and is a metabolic driver in the tumor metabolic microenvironment (TMME). Intriguingly, TGF-β ligands act as an “endocrine” cytokine and influence host metabolism. Therefore, having insight into the role of TGF-β signaling in the TMME is instrumental for acknowledging its wide range of effects and designing new cancer treatment strategies. Herein, we try to illustrate the concise definition of TMME based on the published literature. Then, we review the metabolic reprogramming in the TMME and elaborate on the contribution of TGF-β to metabolic rewiring at the cellular (intracellular), tissular (intercellular), and organismal (cancer-host) levels. Furthermore, we propose three potential applications of targeting TGF-β-dependent mechanism reprogramming, paving the way for TGF-β-related antitumor therapy from the perspective of metabolism.
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Hillers-Ziemer LE, Kuziel G, Williams AE, Moore BN, Arendt LM. Breast cancer microenvironment and obesity: challenges for therapy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 41:627-647. [PMID: 35435599 PMCID: PMC9470689 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10031-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Women with obesity who develop breast cancer have a worsened prognosis with diminished survival rates and increased rates of metastasis. Obesity is also associated with decreased breast cancer response to endocrine and chemotherapeutic treatments. Studies utilizing multiple in vivo models of obesity as well as human breast tumors have enhanced our understanding of how obesity alters the breast tumor microenvironment. Changes in the complement and function of adipocytes, adipose-derived stromal cells, immune cells, and endothelial cells and remodeling of the extracellular matrix all contribute to the rapid growth of breast tumors in the context of obesity. Interactions of these cells enhance secretion of cytokines and adipokines as well as local levels of estrogen within the breast tumor microenvironment that promote resistance to multiple therapies. In this review, we will discuss our current understanding of the impact of obesity on the breast tumor microenvironment, how obesity-induced changes in cellular interactions promote resistance to breast cancer treatments, and areas for development of treatment interventions for breast cancer patients with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Hillers-Ziemer
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Genevra Kuziel
- Program in Cancer Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Abbey E Williams
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Brittney N Moore
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Lisa M Arendt
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
- Program in Cancer Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA.
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2015 Linden Dr. Rm 4354A, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
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Glabman RA, Choyke PL, Sato N. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Tumorigenicity and Targeting for Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163906. [PMID: 36010899 PMCID: PMC9405783 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are found in the tumor microenvironment and exhibit several protumorigenic functions. Preclinical studies suggest that CAFs can be reduced, eliminated, or reprogrammed; however, clinical translation has not yet occurred. A better understanding of these cells and their functions will undoubtedly improve cancer treatments. In this review, we summarize current research, highlight major challenges, and discuss future opportunities for improving our knowledge of CAF biology and targeting. Abstract Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogenous group of activated fibroblasts and a major component of the tumor stroma. CAFs may be derived from fibroblasts, epithelial cells, endothelial cells, cancer stem cells, adipocytes, pericytes, or stellate cells. These complex origins may underlie their functional diversity, which includes pro-tumorigenic roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, the suppression of anti-tumor immunity, and resistance to cancer therapy. Several methods for targeting CAFs to inhibit tumor progression and enhance anti-tumor immunity have recently been reported. While preclinical studies have shown promise, to date they have been unsuccessful in human clinical trials against melanoma, breast cancer, pancreas cancer, and colorectal cancers. This review summarizes recent and major advances in CAF-targeting therapies, including DNA-based vaccines, anti-CAF CAR-T cells, and modifying and reprogramming CAF functions. The challenges in developing effective anti-CAF treatment are highlighted, which include CAF heterogeneity and plasticity, the lack of specific target markers for CAFs, the limitations in animal models recapitulating the human cancer microenvironment, and the undesirable off-target and systemic side effects. Overcoming these challenges and expanding our understanding of the basic biology of CAFs is necessary for making progress towards safe and effective therapeutic strategies against cancers in human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raisa A. Glabman
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Peter L. Choyke
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Noriko Sato
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-240-858-3079
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Sehgal M, Jakhete SM, Manekar AG, Sasikumar S. Specific epigenetic regulators serve as potential therapeutic targets in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09773. [PMID: 36061031 PMCID: PMC9434059 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a disorder observed mostly in older human beings, is characterised by chronic and progressive lung scarring leading to an irreversible decline in lung function. This health condition has a dismal prognosis and the currently available drugs only delay but fail to reverse the progression of lung damage. Consequently, it becomes imperative to discover improved therapeutic compounds and their cellular targets to cure IPF. In this regard, a number of recent studies have targeted the epigenetic regulation by histone deacetylases (HDACs) to develop and categorise antifibrotic drugs for lungs. Therefore, this review focuses on how aberrant expression or activity of Classes I, II and III HDACs alter TGF-β signalling to promote events such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition, differentiation of activated fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, and excess deposition of the extracellular matrix to propel lung fibrosis. Further, this study describes how certain chemical compounds or dietary changes modulate dysregulated HDACs to attenuate five faulty TGF-β-dependent profibrotic processes, both in animal models and cell lines replicating IPF, thereby identifying promising means to treat this lung disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manas Sehgal
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Tathawade, Pune, Maharashtra, PIN - 411033, India
| | - Sharayu Manish Jakhete
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Tathawade, Pune, Maharashtra, PIN - 411033, India
| | - Amruta Ganesh Manekar
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Tathawade, Pune, Maharashtra, PIN - 411033, India
| | - Satish Sasikumar
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Tathawade, Pune, Maharashtra, PIN - 411033, India
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Zeng L, Wang X, Wang F, Zhao X, Ding Y. Identification of a Gene Signature of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts to Predict Prognosis in Ovarian Cancer. Front Genet 2022; 13:925231. [PMID: 35873482 PMCID: PMC9298777 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.925231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OvCa) is one of the most widespread malignant tumors, which has the highest morbidity and unsatisfactory clinical outcomes among all gynecological malignancies in the world. Previous studies found that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play significant roles in tumor growth, progression, and chemoresistance. In the current research, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), univariable COX regression, and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis were applied to recognize CAF-specific genes. After multiple bioinformatic analyses, four genes (AXL, GPR176, ITGBL1, and TIMP3) were identified as OvCa-specific CAF markers and used to construct the prognostic signature (CAFRS). Furthermore, the specificity of the four genes' expression was further validated at the single-cell level, which was high-selectively expressed in CAFs. In addition, our results showed that CAFRS is an independent significant risk factor affecting the clinical outcomes of OvCa patients. Meanwhile, patients with higher CAFRS were more likely to establish chemoresistance to platinum. Besides, the CAFRS were notably correlated with well-known signal pathways that were related to tumor progression. In summary, our study identifies four CAF-specific genes and constructs a novel prognostic signature, which may provide more insights into precise prognostic assessment in OvCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nantong Maternal and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xuehai Wang
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Fengxu Wang
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xinyuan Zhao
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yiqian Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nantong Maternal and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, China
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