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Gupta P, Bermejo-Rodriguez C, Kocher H, Pérez-Mancera PA, Velliou EG. Chemotherapy Assessment in Advanced Multicellular 3D Models of Pancreatic Cancer: Unravelling the Importance of Spatiotemporal Mimicry of the Tumor Microenvironment. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300580. [PMID: 38327154 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a challenge for global health with very low survival rate and high therapeutic resistance. Hence, advanced preclinical models for treatment screening are of paramount importance. Herein, chemotherapeutic (gemcitabine) assessment on novel (polyurethane) scaffold-based spatially advanced 3D multicellular PDAC models is carried out. Through comprehensive image-based analysis at the protein level, and expression analysis at the mRNA level, the importance of stromal cells is confirmed, primarily activated stellate cells in the chemoresistance of PDAC cells within the models. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that, in addition to the presence of activated stellate cells, the spatial architecture of the scaffolds, i.e., segregation/compartmentalization of the cancer and stromal zones, affect the cellular evolution and is necessary for the development of chemoresistance. These results highlight that, further to multicellularity, mapping the tumor structure/architecture and zonal complexity in 3D cancer models is important for better mimicry of the in vivo therapeutic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Gupta
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, W1W 7TY, UK
| | - Camino Bermejo-Rodriguez
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Hemant Kocher
- Centre for Tumour Biology and Experimental Cancer Medicine, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Pedro A Pérez-Mancera
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Eirini G Velliou
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, W1W 7TY, UK
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Lu Y, Zhou T, Lu M. A prognostic binary classifier comprised of five critical mRNAs stratified pancreatic cancer patients following resection. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31302. [PMID: 38828350 PMCID: PMC11140619 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31302] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic cancer is characterized by an extremely poor prognosis, even following potentially curative resection. Classical prognostic markers such as histopathological or clinical parameters have limited predictive power. The present study aimed to establish a prognostic model combining mRNA expression data with histopathological and clinical data to better predict survival and stratify pancreatic cancer patients following resection. We pioneered three models in one study and systematically evaluated the clinical benefits of all three models. Methods To identify differentially expressed genes in pancreatic cancer, mRNA data from normal (GTEx database) and pancreatic cancer (TCGA database) tissues were used. Survival analysis was carried out to identify prognosis-relevant genes from the identified differentially expressed genes and LASSO regression was used to filter out hub genes. The risk score of several hub genes was calculated according to gene expression and coefficients. Validation was carried out using an independent set of GEO microarray data. Multivariate COX regression was used for identifying independent clinical and pathological risk factors related to patient's survival in the TCGA database and a prognostic model combining mRNA expression data with histopathological and clinical data was established. Another prognostic model using clinicopathological factors from the SEER database was conceived based on multivariate COX regression. NRI (net reclassification improvement) and IDI (integrated discrimination index) were used to compare the predictive capabilities of the different models. Results We identified 1589 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) through the comparison of normal and pancreatic cancer tissues, of whom 317 were associated with prognosis(p < 0.05). LASSO regression identified five hub genes, MYEOV, ANXA2P2, MET, CEP55, and KRT7, that were used for the five-mRNA-classifier prognostic model. The classifier could stratify patients into a short and long survival group: 5-year overall survival in the training set (TCGA, 6 % vs 52 %, p < 0.001), test set (TCGA, 18 % vs 55 %,p < 0.01) and external validation set (GEO, 0 % vs 25 %, p < 0.05). Sensitivity analysis showed that the mRNA model (model 1) was better than the clinicopathological no-mRNA model (model 2) in predicting 5-year survival in the TCGA database (AUC: 0.877 vs 0.718, z = 3.165, p < 0.01) and better than the multi-factor prognostic model (model 3) from the SEER database (AUC: 0.754, z = 2.637, p < 0.01). On predictive performance, model 1 improved model 2 (NRI = 0.084, z = 1.288, p = 0.198; IDI = 0.055, z = 1.041,p = 0.298) and model 3 (NRI = 0.167,z = 1.961,p = 0.05; IDI = 0.086, z = 1.427, p = 0.154). Conclusion The five-mRNA-classifier is a reliable and feasible instrument to predict the prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients following resection. It might help in patiens counseling and assist clinicians in providing individualized treatment for patients in different risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueqing Lu
- Hepatobiliary and Vascular Surgery, People's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 271199, Shandong Province, China
| | - Tong Zhou
- Hepatobiliary and Vascular Surgery, People's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 271199, Shandong Province, China
| | - Mingshu Lu
- Hepatobiliary and Vascular Surgery, People's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, 271199, Shandong Province, China
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3
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Yang Z, Tang Y, Wu X, Wang J, Yao W. MicroRNA-130b Suppresses Malignant Behaviours and Inhibits the Activation of the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway by Targeting MET in Pancreatic Cancer. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10696-7. [PMID: 38607540 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10696-7] [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: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
There has been interested in the microRNAs' roles in pancreatic cancer (PC) cell biology, particularly in regulating pathways related to tumorigenesis. The study aimed to explore the hub miRNAs in PC and underlying mechanisms by bioinformatics and fundamental experiments. RNA datasets collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus were analysed to find out differentially expressed RNAs (DERNAs). The miRNA-mRNA and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were built. The clinicopathological features and expressions of hub miRNAs and hub mRNAs were explored. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was performed to assess the interaction between microRNA and target gene. RT-qPCR and western blot were employed to explore RNA expression. The roles of RNA were detected by CCK-8 test, wound healing, transwell, and flow cytometry experiment. We verified 40 DEmiRNAs and 1613 DEmRNAs, then detected a total of 69 final functional mRNAs (FmRNAs) and 23 DEmiRNAs. In the miRNA-mRNA networks, microRNA-130b (miR-130b) was the hub RNA with highest degrees. Clinical analysis revealed that miR-130b was considerably lower expressed in cancerous tissues than in healthy ones, and patients with higher-expressed miR-130b had a better prognosis. Mechanically, miR-130b directly targeted MET in PC cells. Cell functional experiments verified that miR-130b suppressed cell proliferation, migration, promoted apoptosis, and inhibited the PI3K/Akt pathway by targeting MET in PC cells. Our findings illustrated the specific molecular mechanism of miR-130b regulating PC progress. The miR-130b/MET axis may be an alternative target in the therapeutic intervention of PC and provide an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the pathogenesis of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilin Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yuming Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xuejiao Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jiancheng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Weiyan Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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4
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Abu-Serie MM. Synergistic eradicating impact of 5-fluouracil with FeO nanoparticles-diethyldithiocarbamate in colon cancer spheroids. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2024; 19:979-994. [PMID: 38578787 PMCID: PMC11221372 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2024-0007] [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: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer stem cells' (CSCs) resistance to 5-fluorouracil (Fu), which is the main obstacle in treating colon cancer (CC), can be overcome by ferroptosis. The latter, herein, can be triggered by FeO nanoparticles (inducer of iron accumulation) and diethyldithiocarbamate-inhibited glutathione system and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH1A1-maintained stemness, therapeutic resistance and metastasis). Materials & methods: Nanocomplex of FeO nanoparticles and diethyldithiocarbamate (FD) was used in combination with Fu to investigate its potential synergistic anti-CSC influence using CC spheroid models. Results: In Fu + FD-treated spheroids, the strongest growth inhibition, the highest cell death percentage, and the lowest CD133+-CSCs percentage and stemness gene expressions (e.g., drug efflux transporter), and the strongest antimetastatic effect were recorded with high synergistic indexes. Conclusion: Fu + FD represents effective combination therapy for chemoresistant CC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa M Abu-Serie
- Medical Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), Alexandria, 21934, Egypt
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5
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Che PP, Gregori A, Bergonzini C, Ali M, Mantini G, Schmidt T, Finamore F, Rodrigues SMF, Frampton AE, McDonnell LA, Danen EH, Slotman BJ, Sminia P, Giovannetti E. Differential Sensitivity to Ionizing Radiation in Gemcitabine-Resistant and Paclitaxel-Resistant Pancreatic Cancer Cells. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024; 118:1328-1343. [PMID: 37914140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chemoresistance remains a major challenge in treating pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Although chemoradiation has proven effective in other tumor types, such as head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, its role in PDAC and effect on acquired chemoresistance have yet to be fully explored. In this study, we investigated the sensitivity of gemcitabine-resistant (GR) and paclitaxel-resistant (PR) PDAC cells to ionizing radiation (IR) and their underlying mechanisms. METHODS AND MATERIALS GR and PR clones were generated from PANC-1, PATU-T, and SUIT2-007 pancreatic cancer cell lines. Cell survival after radiation was assessed using clonogenic assay, sulforhodamine B assay, apoptosis, and spheroid growth by bioluminescence. Radiation-induced DNA damage was assessed using Western blot, extra-long polymerase chain reaction, reactive oxygen species production, and immunofluorescence. Autophagy and modulation of the Hippo signaling pathway were investigated using proteomics, Western blot, immunofluorescence, and reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS In both 2- and 3-dimensional settings, PR cells were more sensitive to IR and showed decreased β-globin amplification, indicating more DNA damage accumulation compared with GR or wild-type cells after 24 hours. Proteomic analysis of PR PATU-T cells revealed that the protein MST4, a kinase involved in autophagy and the Hippo signaling pathway, was highly downregulated. A differential association was found between autophagy and radiation treatment depending on the cell model. Interestingly, increased yes-associated protein nuclear localization and downstream Hippo signaling pathway target gene expression were observed in response to IR. CONCLUSIONS This was the first study investigating the potential of IR in targeting PDAC cells with acquired chemoresistance. Our results demonstrate that PR cells exhibit enhanced sensitivity to IR due to greater accumulation of DNA damage. Additionally, depending on the specific cellular context, radiation-induced modulation of autophagy and the Hippo signaling pathway emerged as potential underlying mechanisms, findings with potential to inform personalized treatment strategies for patients with acquired chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Pei Che
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandro Gregori
- Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Physics of Life Processes, Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Cecilia Bergonzini
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mahsoem Ali
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Giulia Mantini
- Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, San Giuliano Terme, Italy
| | - Thomas Schmidt
- Physics of Life Processes, Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Stephanie M Fraga Rodrigues
- Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Adam E Frampton
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | | | - Erik H Danen
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ben J Slotman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Sminia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, San Giuliano Terme, Italy.
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6
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Vahabi M, Xu G, Avan A, Peters GJ, Giovannetti E. Pharmacological mechanisms underlying the interaction of the nucleoside analogue gemcitabine with the c-MET inhibitor tivantinib in pancreatic cancer. NUCLEOSIDES, NUCLEOTIDES & NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38420938 DOI: 10.1080/15257770.2024.2319215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a deadly malignancy with limited treatment options, highlighting the urgent need for innovative approaches. A promising target for new anticancer therapies across various tumor types is the receptor tyrosine kinase c-MET. Here, we examined the impact of the c-MET inhibitor tivantinib in combination with gemcitabine on both primary and immortalized PDAC cells, and we investigated the mechanism underlying this combined treatment's effects. Our findings demonstrate that tivantinib is synergistic with gemcitabine, which is not related to cytidine deaminase but to inhibition of the polymerization of tubulin. Moreover, these drugs affected the expression of microRNAs miR-21 and miR-34, which regulate key oncogenic pathways. These findings might have an impact on the selection of patients for future trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahrou Vahabi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Geng Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy
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7
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Scianò F, Terrana F, Pecoraro C, Parrino B, Cascioferro S, Diana P, Giovannetti E, Carbone D. Exploring the therapeutic potential of focal adhesion kinase inhibition in overcoming chemoresistance in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Future Med Chem 2024; 16:271-289. [PMID: 38269431 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0234] [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: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase often overexpressed in PDAC. FAK has been linked to cell migration, survival, proliferation, angiogenesis and adhesion. This review first highlights the chemoresistant nature of PDAC. Second, the role of FAK in PDAC cancer progression and resistance is carefully described. Additionally, it discusses recent developments of FAK inhibitors as valuable drugs in the treatment of PDAC, with a focus on diamine-substituted-2,4-pyrimidine-based compounds, which represent the most potent class of FAK inhibitors in clinical trials for the treatment of PDAC disease. To conclude, relevant computational studies performed on FAK inhibitors are reported to highlight the key structural features required for interaction with the protein, with the aim of optimizing this novel targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Scianò
- Department of Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Francesca Terrana
- Department of Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Camilla Pecoraro
- Department of Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Barbara Parrino
- Department of Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Stella Cascioferro
- Department of Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Patrizia Diana
- Department of Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc) De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, 1081HV, The Netherlands
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, San Giuliano Terme, Pisa, 56017, Italy
| | - Daniela Carbone
- Department of Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
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8
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Rassomakhina NV, Ryazanova AY, Likhov AR, Bruskin SA, Maloshenok LG, Zherdeva VV. Tumor Organoids: The Era of Personalized Medicine. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2024; 89:S127-S147. [PMID: 38621748 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297924140086] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The strategies of future medicine are aimed to modernize and integrate quality approaches including early molecular-genetic profiling, identification of new therapeutic targets and adapting design for clinical trials, personalized drug screening (PDS) to help predict and individualize patient treatment regimens. In the past decade, organoid models have emerged as an innovative in vitro platform with the potential to realize the concept of patient-centered medicine. Organoids are spatially restricted three-dimensional clusters of cells ex vivo that self-organize into complex functional structures through genetically programmed determination, which is crucial for reconstructing the architecture of the primary tissue and organs. Currently, there are several strategies to create three-dimensional (3D) tumor systems using (i) surgically resected patient tissue (PDTOs, patient-derived tumor organoids) or (ii) single tumor cells circulating in the patient's blood. Successful application of 3D tumor models obtained by co-culturing autologous tumor organoids (PDTOs) and peripheral blood lymphocytes have been demonstrated in a number of studies. Such models simulate a 3D tumor architecture in vivo and contain all cell types characteristic of this tissue, including immune system cells and stem cells. Components of the tumor microenvironment, such as fibroblasts and immune system cells, affect tumor growth and its drug resistance. In this review, we analyzed the evolution of tumor models from two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures and laboratory animals to 3D tissue-specific tumor organoids, their significance in identifying mechanisms of antitumor response and drug resistance, and use of these models in drug screening and development of precision methods in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia V Rassomakhina
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Alexandra Yu Ryazanova
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Astemir R Likhov
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Sergey A Bruskin
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
- Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Liliya G Maloshenok
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
- Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Victoria V Zherdeva
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia.
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9
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Nikdouz A, Orso F. Emerging roles of 3D-culture systems in tackling tumor drug resistance. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:788-804. [PMID: 38263982 PMCID: PMC10804388 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Drug resistance that affects patients universally is a major challenge in cancer therapy. The development of drug resistance in cancer cells is a multifactor event, and its process involves numerous mechanisms that allow these cells to evade the effect of treatments. As a result, the need to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer drug sensitivity is imperative. Traditional 2D cell culture systems have been utilized to study drug resistance, but they often fail to mimic the 3D milieu and the architecture of real tissues and cell-cell interactions. As a result of this, 3D cell culture systems are now considered a comprehensive model to study drug resistance in vitro. Cancer cells exhibit an in vivo behavior when grown in a three-dimensional environment and react to therapy more physiologically. In this review, we discuss the relevance of main 3D culture systems in the study of potential approaches to overcome drug resistance and in the identification of personalized drug targets with the aim of developing patient-specific treatment strategies that can be put in place when resistance emerges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Orso
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara 28100, Italy
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10
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Monzo HJ, Kalander K, Hyytiäinen MM, Elbasani E, Wall J, Moyano-Galceran L, Tanjore Ramanathan J, Jukonen J, Laakkonen P, Ristimäki A, Carlson JW, Lehti K, Salehi S, Puolakkainen P, Haglund C, Seppänen H, Leppä S, Ojala PM. Efficacy and Safety of Glycosphingolipid SSEA-4 Targeting CAR-T Cells in an Ovarian Carcinoma Model. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:1319-1331. [PMID: 37486980 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell immunotherapies for solid tumors face critical challenges such as heterogeneous antigen expression. We characterized stage-specific embryonic antigen-4 (SSEA-4) cell-surface glycolipid as a target for CAR T-cell therapy. SSEA-4 is mainly expressed during embryogenesis but is also found in several cancer types making it an attractive tumor-associated antigen. Anti-SSEA-4 CAR-T cells were generated and assessed preclinically in vitro and in vivo for antitumor response and safety. SSEA-4 CAR-T cells effectively eliminated SSEA-4-positive cells in all the tested cancer cell lines, whereas SSEA-4-negative cells lines were not targeted. In vivo efficacy and safety studies using NSG mice and the high-grade serous ovarian cancer cell line OVCAR4 demonstrated a remarkable and specific antitumor response at all the CAR T-cell doses used. At high T-cell doses, CAR T cell-treated mice showed signs of health deterioration after a follow-up period. However, the severity of toxicity was reduced with a delayed onset when lower CAR T-cell doses were used. Our data demonstrate the efficacy of anti-SSEA-4 CAR T-cell therapy; however, safety strategies, such as dose-limiting and/or equipping CAR-T cells with combinatorial antigen recognition should be implemented for its potential clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector J Monzo
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kerttu Kalander
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marko M Hyytiäinen
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Endrit Elbasani
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johanna Wall
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lidia Moyano-Galceran
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Joonas Jukonen
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pirjo Laakkonen
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Laboratory Animal Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science-HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ari Ristimäki
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinli, Finland
| | - Joseph W Carlson
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kaisa Lehti
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Sahar Salehi
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Pelvic Cancer, Theme Cancer, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pauli Puolakkainen
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Caj Haglund
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna Seppänen
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sirpa Leppä
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Oncology, Helsinki University Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center, Helsinki, Finland
- iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Päivi M Ojala
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, Helsinki, Finland
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11
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Wu Y, Shang J, Ruan Q, Tan X. Integrated single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing in pancreatic cancer identifies disulfidptosis-associated molecular subtypes and prognostic signature. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17577. [PMID: 37845218 PMCID: PMC10579418 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43036-7] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is known for its high degree of heterogeneity and exceptionally adverse outcome. While disulfidptosis is the most recently identified form of cell death, the predictive and therapeutic value of disulfidptosis-related genes (DRGs) for PC remains unknown. RNA sequencing data with the follow-up information, were retrieved from the TCGA and ICGC databases. Consensus clustering analysis was conducted on patient data using R software. Subsequently, the LASSO regression analysis was conducted to create a prognostic signature for foreseeing the outcome of PC. Differences in relevant pathways, mutational landscape, and tumor immune microenvironment were compared between PC samples with different risk levels. Finally, we experimentally confirmed the impact of DSG3 on the invasion and migration abilities of PC cells. All twenty DRGs were found to be hyperexpressed in PC tissues, and fourteen of them significantly associated with PC survival. Using consensus clustering analysis based on these DRGs, four DRclusters were identified. Additionally, altogether 223 differential genes were evaluated between clusters, indicating potential biological differences between them. Four gene clusters (geneClusters) were recognized according to these genes, and a 10-gene prognostic signature was created. High-risk patients were found to be primarily enriched in signaling pathways related to the cell cycle and p53. Furthermore, the rate of mutations was markedly higher in high-risk patients, besides important variations were present in terms of immune microenvironment and chemotherapy sensitivity among patients with different risk levels. DSG3 could appreciably enhance the invasion and migration of PC cells. This work, based on disulfidoptosis-related genes (DRGs), holds the promise of classifying PC patients and predicting their prognosis, mutational landscape, immune microenvironment, and drug therapy. These insights could boost an improvement in a better comprehension of the role of DRGs in PC as well as provide new opportunities for prognostic prediction and more effective treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhao Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Jin Shang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Qiang Ruan
- Virology Lab, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| | - Xiaodong Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China.
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12
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Mortazavi M, Eskandari M, Moosavi F, Damghani T, Khoshneviszadeh M, Pirhadi S, Saso L, Edraki N, Firuzi O. Novel quinazoline-1,2,3-triazole hybrids with anticancer and MET kinase targeting properties. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14685. [PMID: 37673888 PMCID: PMC10482942 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41283-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) such as MET is associated with cancer initiation and progression. We designed and synthesized a new series of quinazoline derivatives bearing 1,2,3-triazole moiety as targeted anticancer agents. The MET inhibitory effect of synthesized compounds was assessed by homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay and western blot analysis. Sulforhodamine B assay was conducted to examine the antiproliferative effects of synthetic compounds against 6 cancer cell lines from different origins including MET-dependent AsPC-1, EBC-1 and MKN-45 cells and also Mia-Paca-2, HT-29 and K562 cells. The growth inhibitory effect of compounds in a three-dimensional spheroid culture was examined by acid phosphatase (APH) assay, while apoptosis induction was evaluated by Annexin V/propidium iodide method. Compound 8c bearing p-methyl benzyl moiety on the triazole ring exhibited the highest MET inhibitory capacity among tested agents that was further confirmed by western blot findings. Derivatives 8c and 8h exhibited considerable antiproliferative effects against all tested cell lines, with more inhibitory effects against MET-positive cells with IC50 values as low as 6.1 μM. These two agents also significantly suppressed cell growth in spheroid cultures and induced apoptosis in MET overexpressing AsPC-1 cells. Moreover, among a panel of 24 major oncogenic kinases, the PDGFRA kinase was identified as a target of 8c and 8h compounds. The docking study results of compounds 8c and 8h were in agreement with experimental findings. The results of the present study suggest that quinazoline derivatives bearing 1,2,3-triazole moiety may represent promising targeted anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Mortazavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoomeh Eskandari
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Moosavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Damghani
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khoshneviszadeh
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Somayeh Pirhadi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, P.Le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Najmeh Edraki
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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13
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Vakhshiteh F, Bagheri Z, Soleimani M, Ahvaraki A, Pournemat P, Alavi SE, Madjd Z. Heterotypic tumor spheroids: a platform for nanomedicine evaluation. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:249. [PMID: 37533100 PMCID: PMC10398970 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02021-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanomedicine has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach, but its translation to the clinic has been hindered by the lack of cellular models to anticipate how tumor cells will respond to therapy. Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models are thought to more accurately recapitulate key features of primary tumors than two-dimensional (2D) cultures. Heterotypic 3D tumor spheroids, composed of multiple cell types, have become more popular than homotypic spheroids, which consist of a single cell type, as a superior model for mimicking in vivo tumor heterogeneity and physiology. The stromal interactions demonstrated in heterotypic 3D tumor spheroids can affect various aspects, including response to therapy, cancer progression, nanomedicine penetration, and drug resistance. Accordingly, to design more effective anticancer nanomedicinal therapeutics, not only tumor cells but also stromal cells (e.g., fibroblasts and immune cells) should be considered to create a more physiologically relevant in vivo microenvironment. This review aims to demonstrate current knowledge of heterotypic 3D tumor spheroids in cancer research, to illustrate current advances in utilizing these tumor models as a novel and versatile platform for in vitro evaluation of nanomedicine-based therapeutics in cancer research, and to discuss challenges, guidelines, and future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Vakhshiteh
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Bagheri
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983969411, Iran.
| | - Marziye Soleimani
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983969411, Iran
| | - Akram Ahvaraki
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983969411, Iran
| | - Parisa Pournemat
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983969411, Iran
| | - Seyed Ebrahim Alavi
- Faculty of Medicine, Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
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14
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Mekapogu AR, Xu Z, Pothula S, Perera C, Pang T, Hosen SMZ, Damalanka V, Janetka J, Goldstein D, Pirola R, Wilson J, Apte M. HGF/c-Met pathway inhibition combined with chemotherapy increases cytotoxic T-cell infiltration and inhibits pancreatic tumour growth and metastasis. Cancer Lett 2023:216286. [PMID: 37354984 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a deadly cancer with a high mortality rate. The unique characteristics of PC, including desmoplasia and immunosuppression, have made it difficult to develop effective treatment strategies. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) play a crucial role in the progression of the disease by interacting with cancer cells. One of the key mediators of PSC - cancer cell interactions is the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-MET pathway. Using an immunocompetent in vivo model of PC as well as in vitro experiments, this study has shown that a combined approach using HGF/c-MET inhibitors to target stromal-tumour interactions and chemotherapy (gemcitabine) to target cancer cells effectively decreases tumour volume, EMT, and stemness, and importantly, eliminates metastasis. Notably, HGF/c-MET inhibition decreases TGF-β secretion by cancer cells, resulting in an increase in cytotoxic T-cell infiltration, thus contributing to cancer cell death in tumours. HGF/c-MET inhibition + chemotherapy was also found to normalise the gut microbiome and improve gut microbial diversity. These findings provide a strong platform for assessment of this triple therapy (HGF/c-MET inhibition + chemotherapy) approach in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alpha Raj Mekapogu
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Zhihong Xu
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Srinivasa Pothula
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia; AbCellera, Beaconsfield, New South Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Chamini Perera
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tony Pang
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia; Surgical Innovations Unit, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia; Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - S M Zahid Hosen
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Vishnu Damalanka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University, St. Louis, USA
| | - James Janetka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University, St. Louis, USA
| | - David Goldstein
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia
| | - Romano Pirola
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia
| | - Jeremy Wilson
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Minoti Apte
- Pancreatic Research Group, South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia.
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15
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Gregori A, Bergonzini C, Capula M, Mantini G, Khojasteh-Leylakoohi F, Comandatore A, Khalili-Tanha G, Khooei A, Morelli L, Avan A, Danen EH, Schmidt T, Giovannetti E. Prognostic Significance of Integrin Subunit Alpha 2 (ITGA2) and Role of Mechanical Cues in Resistance to Gemcitabine in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030628. [PMID: 36765586 PMCID: PMC9913151 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION PDAC is an extremely aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis and remarkable therapeutic resistance. The dense extracellular matrix (ECM) which characterizes PDAC progression is considered a fundamental determinant of chemoresistance, with major contributions from mechanical factors. This study combined biomechanical and pharmacological approaches to evaluate the role of the cell-adhesion molecule ITGA2, a key regulator of ECM, in PDAC resistance to gemcitabine. METHODS The prognostic value of ITGA2 was analysed in publicly available databases and tissue-microarrays of two cohorts of radically resected and metastatic patients treated with gemcitabine. PANC-1 and its gemcitabine-resistant clone (PANC-1R) were analysed by RNA-sequencing and label-free proteomics. The role of ITGA2 in migration, proliferation, and apoptosis was investigated using hydrogel-coated wells, siRNA-mediated knockdown and overexpression, while collagen-embedded spheroids assessed invasion and ECM remodeling. RESULTS High ITGA2 expression correlated with shorter progression-free and overall survival, supporting its impact on prognosis and the lack of efficacy of gemcitabine treatment. These findings were corroborated by transcriptomic and proteomic analyses showing that ITGA2 was upregulated in the PANC-1R clone. The aggressive behavior of these cells was significantly reduced by ITGA2 silencing both in vitro and in vivo, while PANC-1 cells growing under conditions resembling PDAC stiffness acquired resistance to gemcitabine, associated to increased ITGA2 expression. Collagen-embedded spheroids of PANC-1R showed a significant matrix remodeling and spreading potential via increased expression of CXCR4 and MMP2. Additionally, overexpression of ITGA2 in MiaPaCa-2 cells triggered gemcitabine resistance and increased proliferation, both in vitro and in vivo, associated to upregulation of phospho-AKT. CONCLUSIONS ITGA2 emerged as a new prognostic factor, highlighting the relevance of stroma mechanical properties as potential therapeutic targets to counteract gemcitabine resistance in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Gregori
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cecilia Bergonzini
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mjriam Capula
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Institute of Life Sciences, Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, 56127 Pisa, Italy
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, 56017 San Giuliano, Italy
| | - Giulia Mantini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, 56017 San Giuliano, Italy
| | | | - Annalisa Comandatore
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ghazaleh Khalili-Tanha
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 91886-17871, Iran
| | - Alireza Khooei
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 91886-17871, Iran
| | - Luca Morelli
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 91886-17871, Iran
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 91886-17871, Iran
| | - Erik H. Danen
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Schmidt
- Physics of Life Processes, Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, 2333 CA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, 56017 San Giuliano, Italy
- Correspondence:
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16
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Mortazavi M, Raufi E, Damghani T, Khoshneviszadeh M, Edraki N, Eskandari M, Giovannetti E, Peters GJ, Pirhadi S, Firuzi O. Discovery of anticancer agents with c-Met inhibitory potential by virtual and experimental screening of a chemical library. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 938:175395. [PMID: 36410418 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase has recently emerged as an important target with therapeutic implications in pancreatic cancer. In this study, we carried out a docking virtual screening on an in-house library of 441 synthesized compounds and selected the compounds with the best interactions with the c-Met protein to be subjected to experimental tests. Ten compounds belonging to 3 different classes of chemical structures were selected for this purpose and their antiproliferative effects were studied against 4 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines including AsPC-1, Suit-2, Panc-1 and Mia-Paca-2 cells, primary PDAC cells and also c-Met amplified EBC-1 cell line by sulforhodamine-B assay. Apoptosis induction was examined by Hoechst 33258 staining and annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide flow cytometric assay. The best compound was also assayed in three-dimensional cultures of AsPC-1 cells and its c-Met inhibitory potential was studied by immunoblotting and a homogenous time resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay. The compound with a phenanthrotriazine hydrazinyl scaffold bearing nitrophenyl pendant (PhTH) was the most active derivative, with IC50 values in the range of 5-8 μM. This compound exerted antiproliferative effect against AsPC-1 cells also in the presence of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). PhTH induced apoptosis, dose-dependently inhibited spheroid growth, inhibited c-Met activity in cell-free HTRF assay and also inhibited the phosphorylation of c-Met and its downstream effector ERK1/2 in AsPC-1 cells. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation and MM-PBSA analysis confirmed close interactions of PhTH with c-Met kinase domain. Some of the tested compounds in this study seem to be potential c-Met inhibitors with promising activities against PDAC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Mortazavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elaheh Raufi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Damghani
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khoshneviszadeh
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Najmeh Edraki
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoomeh Eskandari
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Somayeh Pirhadi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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17
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Mortazavi M, Divar M, Damghani T, Moosavi F, Saso L, Pirhadi S, Khoshneviszadeh M, Edraki N, Firuzi O. Study of the anticancer effect of new quinazolinone hydrazine derivatives as receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Front Chem 2022; 10:969559. [PMID: 36465863 PMCID: PMC9713320 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.969559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of novel receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors has provided an important therapeutic tool for cancer patients. In this study, a series of quinazolinone hydrazide triazole derivatives were designed and synthesized as novel MET (c-MET) receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The antiproliferative effect of the synthesized compounds was examined against EBC-1, A549, HT-29 and U-87MG cells by MTT assay. MET kinase inhibitory effect was tested by a Homogenous Time Resolved Fluorescence (HTRF) assay. The antiproliferative effect of compounds in a three-dimensional spheroid culture was studied by acid phosphatase (APH) assay, while apoptosis induction was examined by Hoechst 33258 staining. We found that compound CM9 bearing p-bromo benzyl pendant inhibited MET kinase activity at the concentrations of 10-50 μM (% Inhibition = 37.1-66.3%). Compound CM9 showed antiproliferative effect against cancer cells, in particular lung cancer cells with MET amplification (EBC-1) with an IC50 value of 8.6 μM. Moreover, this derivative inhibited cell growth in spheroid cultures in a dose-dependent manner and induced apoptosis in cancer cells. Assessment of inhibitory effect of CM9 against a panel of 18 different protein kinases demonstrated that this compound also inhibits ALK, AXL, FGFR1, FLT1 (VEGFR1) and FLT4 (VEGFR3) more than 50% at 25 μM. Finally, molecular docking and dynamics simulation corroborated the experimental findings and showed critical structural features for the interactions between CM9 and target kinases. The findings of this study present quinazolinone hydrazide triazole derivatives as kinase inhibitors with considerable anticancer effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Mortazavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Divar
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Damghani
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Moosavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Somayeh Pirhadi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khoshneviszadeh
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Najmeh Edraki
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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18
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Schuth S, Le Blanc S, Krieger TG, Jabs J, Schenk M, Giese NA, Büchler MW, Eils R, Conrad C, Strobel O. Patient-specific modeling of stroma-mediated chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer using a three-dimensional organoid-fibroblast co-culture system. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2022; 41:312. [PMID: 36273171 PMCID: PMC9588250 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02519-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are considered to play a fundamental role in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) progression and chemoresistance. Patient-derived organoids have demonstrated great potential as tumor avatars for drug response prediction in PDAC, yet they disregard the influence of stromal components on chemosensitivity. METHODS We established direct three-dimensional (3D) co-cultures of primary PDAC organoids and patient-matched CAFs to investigate the effect of the fibroblastic compartment on sensitivity to gemcitabine, 5-fluorouracil and paclitaxel treatments using an image-based drug assay. Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed for three organoid/CAF pairs in mono- and co-culture to uncover transcriptional changes induced by tumor-stroma interaction. RESULTS Upon co-culture with CAFs, we observed increased proliferation and reduced chemotherapy-induced cell death of PDAC organoids. Single-cell RNA sequencing data evidenced induction of a pro-inflammatory phenotype in CAFs in co-cultures. Organoids showed increased expression of genes associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in co-cultures and several potential receptor-ligand interactions related to EMT were identified, supporting a key role of CAF-driven induction of EMT in PDAC chemoresistance. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate the potential of personalized PDAC co-cultures models not only for drug response profiling but also for unraveling the molecular mechanisms involved in the chemoresistance-supporting role of the tumor stroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Schuth
- grid.5253.10000 0001 0328 4908European Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Solange Le Blanc
- grid.5253.10000 0001 0328 4908European Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany ,grid.7497.d0000 0004 0492 0584Division of Molecular Oncology of Gastrointestinal Tumors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany ,grid.461742.20000 0000 8855 0365NCT partner site Heidelberg, a clinical-translational cancer research partnership between University Hospital Heidelberg and DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany ,grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Division of Visceral Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Teresa G. Krieger
- grid.484013.a0000 0004 6879 971XBerlin Institute of Health at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Digital Health Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Jabs
- grid.7497.d0000 0004 0492 0584Division of Theoretical Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany ,Present Address: Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Miriam Schenk
- grid.5253.10000 0001 0328 4908European Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nathalia A. Giese
- grid.5253.10000 0001 0328 4908European Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Markus W. Büchler
- grid.5253.10000 0001 0328 4908European Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roland Eils
- grid.484013.a0000 0004 6879 971XBerlin Institute of Health at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Digital Health Center, Berlin, Germany ,grid.7497.d0000 0004 0492 0584Division of Theoretical Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Conrad
- grid.484013.a0000 0004 6879 971XBerlin Institute of Health at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Digital Health Center, Berlin, Germany ,grid.7497.d0000 0004 0492 0584Division of Theoretical Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Oliver Strobel
- grid.5253.10000 0001 0328 4908European Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany ,grid.461742.20000 0000 8855 0365NCT partner site Heidelberg, a clinical-translational cancer research partnership between University Hospital Heidelberg and DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany ,grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Division of Visceral Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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19
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Role of drug catabolism, modulation of oncogenic signaling and tumor microenvironment in microbe-mediated pancreatic cancer chemoresistance. Drug Resist Updat 2022; 64:100864. [PMID: 36115181 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2022.100864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the highest incidence/death ratios among all neoplasms due to its late diagnosis and dominant chemoresistance. Most PDAC patients present with an advanced disease characterized by a multifactorial, inherent and acquired resistance to current anticancer treatments. This remarkable chemoresistance has been ascribed to several PDAC features including the genetic landscape, metabolic alterations, and a heterogeneous tumor microenvironment that is characterized by dense fibrosis, and a cellular contexture including functionally distinct subclasses of cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune suppressive cells, but also a number of bacteria, shaping a specific tumor microbiome microenvironment. Thus, recent studies prompted the emergence of a new research avenue, by describing the role of the microbiome in gemcitabine resistance, while next-generation-sequencing analyses identified a specific microbiome in different tumors, including PDAC. Functionally, the contribution of these microbes to PDAC chemoresistance is only beginning to be explored. Here we provide an overview of the studies demonstrating that bacteria have the capacity to metabolically transform and hence inactivate anticancer drugs, as exemplified by the inhibition of the efficacy of 10 out of 30 chemotherapeutics by Escherichia coli. Moreover, a number of bacteria modulate specific oncogenic pathways, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum, affecting autophagy and apoptosis induction by 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin. We hypothesize that improved understanding of how chemoresistance is driven by bacteria could enhance the efficacy of current treatments, and discuss the potential of microbiome modulation and targeted therapeutic approaches as well as the need for more reliable models and biomarkers to translate the findings of preclinical/translational research to the clinical setting, and ultimately overcome PDAC chemoresistance, hence improving clinical outcome.
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20
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Zhang Z, Li D, Yun H, Tong J, Liu W, Chai K, Zeng T, Gao Z, Xie Y. Opportunities and challenges of targeting c-Met in the treatment of digestive tumors. Front Oncol 2022; 12:923260. [PMID: 35978812 PMCID: PMC9376446 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.923260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
At present, a large number of studies have demonstrated that c-Met generally exerts a crucial function of promoting tumor cells proliferation and differentiation in digestive system tumors. c-Met also mediates tumor progression and drug resistance by signaling interactions with other oncogenic molecules and then activating downstream pathways. Therefore, c-Met is a promising target for the treatment of digestive system tumors. Many anti-tumor therapies targeting c-Met (tyrosine kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and adoptive immunotherapy) have been developed in treating digestive system tumors. Some drugs have been successfully applied to clinic, but most of them are defective due to their efficacy and complications. In order to promote the clinical application of targeting c-Met drugs in digestive system tumors, it is necessary to further explore the mechanism of c-Met action in digestive system tumors and optimize the anti-tumor treatment of targeting c-Met drugs. Through reading a large number of literatures, the author systematically reviewed the biological functions and molecular mechanisms of c-Met associated with tumor and summarized the current status of targeting c-Met in the treatment of digestive system tumors so as to provide new ideas for the treatment of digestive system tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengchao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, China
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Dong Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, China
| | - Heng Yun
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, China
| | - Jie Tong
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, China
| | - Keqiang Chai
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, China
| | - Tongwei Zeng
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, China
| | - Zhenghua Gao
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, China
- *Correspondence: Yongqiang Xie, ; Zhenghua Gao,
| | - Yongqiang Xie
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, China
- *Correspondence: Yongqiang Xie, ; Zhenghua Gao,
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21
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Mortazavi M, Moosavi F, Martini M, Giovannetti E, Firuzi O. Prospects of targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in pancreatic cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 176:103749. [PMID: 35728737 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the worst prognoses among all malignancies. PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, a main downstream effector of KRAS is involved in the regulation of key hallmarks of cancer. We here report that whole-genome analyses demonstrate the frequent involvement of aberrant activations of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway components in PDAC patients and critically evaluate preclinical and clinical evidence on the application of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway targeting agents. Combinations of these agents with chemotherapeutics or other targeted therapies, including the modulators of cyclin-dependent kinases, receptor tyrosine kinases and RAF/MEK/ERK pathway are also examined. Although human genetic studies and preclinical pharmacological investigations have provided strong evidence on the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in PDAC, clinical studies in general have not been as promising. Patient stratification seems to be the key missing point and with the advent of biomarker-guided clinical trials, targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway could provide valuable assets for treatment of pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Mortazavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Moosavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Miriam Martini
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazine Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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22
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Boyd LNC, Andini KD, Peters GJ, Kazemier G, Giovannetti E. Heterogeneity and plasticity of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 82:184-196. [PMID: 33737108 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive disease with a notably poor prognosis, in urgent need of improved treatment strategies. The desmoplastic PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME), marked by a high concentration of cancer-associated-fibroblasts (CAFs), is a dynamic part of PDAC pathophysiology which occasions a variety of effects throughout the course of pancreatic tumorigenesis and disease evolution. A better understanding of the desmoplastic TME and CAF biology in particular, should provide new opportunities for improving therapeutics. That CAFs have a tumor-supportive role in oncogenesis is well known, yet research evidence has shown that CAFs also have tumor-repressive functions. In this review, we seek to clarify the intriguing heterogeneity and plasticity of CAFs and their ambivalent role in PDAC tumorigenesis and progression. Additionally, we provide recommendations to advance the implementation of CAF-directed PDAC care. An improved understanding of CAFs' origins, spatial location, functional diversity, and marker determination, as well as CAF behavior during the course of PDAC progression and metastasis will provide essential knowledge for the future improvement of therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka N C Boyd
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Katarina D Andini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Marii Skłodowskiej-Curie 3a, 80-210, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Geert Kazemier
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start-Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini, 13, 56017, San Giuliano Terme PI, Pisa, Italy.
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23
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Biodegradable Ultrasmall-in-Nano Architectures Loaded with Cisplatin Prodrug in Combination with Ionizing Radiation Induces DNA Damage and Apoptosis in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14123034. [PMID: 35740699 PMCID: PMC9221262 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14123034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the dismal survival rate, novel therapeutic strategies are warranted to improve the outcome of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Combining nanotechnology for delivery of chemotherapeutics-preferably radiosensitizing agents-is a promising approach to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of chemoradiation. We assessed the effect of biodegradable ultrasmall-in-nano architectures (NAs) containing gold ultra-small nanoparticles (USNPs) enclosed in silica shells loaded with cisplatin prodrug (NAs-cisPt) combined with ionizing radiation (IR). The cytotoxic effects and DNA damage induction were evaluated in PDAC cell lines (MIA PaCa2, SUIT2-028) and primary culture (PDAC3) in vitro and in the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) in ovo model. Unlike NAs, NAs-cisPt affected the cell viability in MIA PaCa2 and SUIT2-028 cells. Furthermore, NAs-cisPt showed increased γH2AX expression up to 24 h post-IR and reduced β-globin amplifications resulting in apoptosis induction at DNA and protein levels. Similarly, combined treatment of NAs-cisPt + IR in PDAC3 and SUIT2-028 CAM models showed enhanced DNA damage and apoptosis leading to tumor growth delay. Our results demonstrate an increased cytotoxic effect of NAs-cisPt, particularly through its release of the cisplatin prodrug. As cisplatin is a well-known radiosensitizer, administration of cisplatin prodrug in a controlled fashion through encapsulation is a promising new treatment approach which merits further investigation in combination with other radiosensitizing agents.
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24
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Koltai T, Reshkin SJ, Carvalho TMA, Di Molfetta D, Greco MR, Alfarouk KO, Cardone RA. Resistance to Gemcitabine in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Physiopathologic and Pharmacologic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2486. [PMID: 35626089 PMCID: PMC9139729 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a very aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis and inadequate response to treatment. Many factors contribute to this therapeutic failure: lack of symptoms until the tumor reaches an advanced stage, leading to late diagnosis; early lymphatic and hematic spread; advanced age of patients; important development of a pro-tumoral and hyperfibrotic stroma; high genetic and metabolic heterogeneity; poor vascular supply; a highly acidic matrix; extreme hypoxia; and early development of resistance to the available therapeutic options. In most cases, the disease is silent for a long time, andwhen it does become symptomatic, it is too late for ablative surgery; this is one of the major reasons explaining the short survival associated with the disease. Even when surgery is possible, relapsesare frequent, andthe causes of this devastating picture are the low efficacy ofand early resistance to all known chemotherapeutic treatments. Thus, it is imperative to analyze the roots of this resistance in order to improve the benefits of therapy. PDAC chemoresistance is the final product of different, but to some extent, interconnected factors. Surgery, being the most adequate treatment for pancreatic cancer and the only one that in a few selected cases can achieve longer survival, is only possible in less than 20% of patients. Thus, the treatment burden relies on chemotherapy in mostcases. While the FOLFIRINOX scheme has a slightly longer overall survival, it also produces many more adverse eventsso that gemcitabine is still considered the first choice for treatment, especially in combination with other compounds/agents. This review discusses the multiple causes of gemcitabine resistance in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephan Joel Reshkin
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Tiago M. A. Carvalho
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Daria Di Molfetta
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Maria Raffaella Greco
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Khalid Omer Alfarouk
- Zamzam Research Center, Zamzam University College, Khartoum 11123, Sudan;
- Alfarouk Biomedical Research LLC, Temple Terrace, FL 33617, USA
| | - Rosa Angela Cardone
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
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25
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Bononi G, Di Stefano M, Poli G, Ortore G, Meier P, Masetto F, Caligiuri I, Rizzolio F, Macchia M, Chicca A, Avan A, Giovannetti E, Vagaggini C, Brai A, Dreassi E, Valoti M, Minutolo F, Granchi C, Gertsch J, Tuccinardi T. Reversible Monoacylglycerol Lipase Inhibitors: Discovery of a New Class of Benzylpiperidine Derivatives. J Med Chem 2022; 65:7118-7140. [PMID: 35522977 PMCID: PMC9150076 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Monoacylglycerol
lipase (MAGL) is the enzyme responsible for the
metabolism of 2-arachidonoylglycerol in the brain and the hydrolysis
of peripheral monoacylglycerols. Many studies demonstrated beneficial
effects deriving from MAGL inhibition for neurodegenerative diseases,
inflammatory pathologies, and cancer. MAGL expression is increased
in invasive tumors, furnishing free fatty acids as pro-tumorigenic
signals and for tumor cell growth. Here, a new class of benzylpiperidine-based
MAGL inhibitors was synthesized, leading to the identification of 13, which showed potent reversible and selective MAGL inhibition.
Associated with MAGL overexpression and the prognostic role in pancreatic
cancer, derivative 13 showed antiproliferative activity
and apoptosis induction, as well as the ability to reduce cell migration
in primary pancreatic cancer cultures, and displayed a synergistic
interaction with the chemotherapeutic drug gemcitabine. These results
suggest that the class of benzylpiperidine-based MAGL inhibitors have
potential as a new class of therapeutic agents and MAGL could play
a role in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bononi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Miriana Di Stefano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giulio Poli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriella Ortore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Philip Meier
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Francesca Masetto
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, DeBoelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Isabella Caligiuri
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy
| | - Flavio Rizzolio
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.,Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca' Foscari University, 30123 Venezia, Italy
| | - Marco Macchia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Chicca
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad 91886-17871, Iran
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, DeBoelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, via Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Vagaggini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Annalaura Brai
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Elena Dreassi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Massimo Valoti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Filippo Minutolo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.,Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Carlotta Granchi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.,Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tiziano Tuccinardi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.,Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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26
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Shichi Y, Gomi F, Sasaki N, Nonaka K, Arai T, Ishiwata T. Epithelial and Mesenchymal Features of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines in Two- and Three-Dimensional Cultures. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12050746. [PMID: 35629168 PMCID: PMC9146102 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12050746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an intractable cancer that is difficult to diagnose early, and there is no cure other than surgery. PDAC is classified as an adenocarcinoma that has limited effective anticancer drug and molecular-targeted therapies compared to adenocarcinoma found in other organs. A large number of cancer cell lines have been established from patients with PDAC that have different genetic abnormalities, including four driver genes; however, little is known about the differences in biological behaviors among these cell lines. Recent studies have shown that PDAC cell lines can be divided into epithelial and mesenchymal cell lines. In 3D cultures, morphological and functional differences between epithelial and mesenchymal PDAC cell lines were observed as well as the drug effects of different anticancer drugs. These effects included gemcitabine causing an increased growth inhibition of epithelial PDAC cells, while nab-paclitaxel caused greater mesenchymal PDAC cell inhibition. Thus, examining the characteristics of epithelial or mesenchymal PDAC cells with stromal cells using a 3D co-culture may lead to the development of new anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuuki Shichi
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan; (Y.S.); (F.G.); (K.N.)
| | - Fujiya Gomi
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan; (Y.S.); (F.G.); (K.N.)
| | - Norihiko Sasaki
- Research Team for Geriatric Medicine (Vascular Medicine), Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan;
| | - Keisuke Nonaka
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan; (Y.S.); (F.G.); (K.N.)
| | - Tomio Arai
- Department of Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Hospital and Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan;
| | - Toshiyuki Ishiwata
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan; (Y.S.); (F.G.); (K.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-3964-1141 (ext. 4414)
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27
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Zhao X, Li Z, Gu Z. A new era: tumor microenvironment in chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer. JOURNAL OF CANCER SCIENCE AND CLINICAL THERAPEUTICS 2022; 6:61-86. [PMID: 35187493 DOI: 10.26502/jcsct.5079146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a solid malignant tumor with an extremely poor prognosis. Gemcitabine (GEM)-based chemotherapy remains one of the most important treatment choices for PDAC. However, either as monotherapy or as a part of the combination chemotherapy, GEM achieved only limited success in improving the survival of patients with advanced PDAC, primarily due to GEM resistance. PDAC is characterized by an extensive desmoplasia in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Increasing evidence indicates that this fibrotic TME not only actively participates in the tumor growth and spread of PDAC but also contributes to the induction of GEM resistance. Here we review the current advances of how TME components are involved in the induction of GEM resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueping Zhao
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutical, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zongze Li
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zongting Gu
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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28
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Huang WC, Yen JH, Sung YW, Tung SL, Chen PM, Chu PY, Shih YC, Chi HC, Huang YC, Huang SJ, Wang LH. Novel function of THEMIS2 in the enhancement of cancer stemness and chemoresistance by releasing PTP1B from MET. Oncogene 2022; 41:997-1010. [PMID: 34974522 PMCID: PMC8837547 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-02136-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) possesses poor prognosis mainly due to lack of effective endocrine or targeted therapies, aggressive nature and high rate of chemoresistance. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to play critical roles in cancer recurrence and chemoresistance. THEMIS2 was identified as the sole common elevated gene in three triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and two ovarian CSC lines. We discovered an intrinsic signaling scaffold function of THEMIS2, which acts as a novel regulator of cancer stemness in promoting multiple cancer stemness properties including sphere formation, stemness markers expression, chemoresistance and tumorigenicity with low numbers of cancer cells implantation. For the first time, we demonstrated that THEMIS2 specifically enhanced MET activating phosphorylation by suppressing the association of protein-tyrosine phosphatases 1B (PTP1B) with p-MET and MET, which accounted mainly for THEMIS2-mediated effect on cancer stemness and chemoresistance. Increased THEMIS2 expression was associated with poor survival in TNBC patients and in patients from our breast cancer cohort. We found that non-cytotoxic dosages of cryptotanshinone (CPT) could potently inhibit cancer stemness, chemoresistance and tumorigenicity by suppressing expression of THEMIS2. Notably, stable overexpression of THEMIS2 is associated with enhanced sensitivity toward Capmatinib and CPT treatment. Expression levels of THEMIS2 and p-MET protein were positively correlated in the 465 breast cancer specimens. Our study revealed the novel oncogenic role of THEMIS2 and its underlying mechanism via suppressing PTP1B association with MET and thus leading to its activation. Our findings suggest that THEMIS2 could be a biomarker for MET targeted therapy and also provide a potential clinical application using low dosages of CPT for treatment of THEMIS2 positive TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chieh Huang
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Hau Yen
- Research Cancer Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Sung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecologics, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Shiao-Lin Tung
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ton-Yen General Hospital, Hsinchu County, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Hsin Sheng Junior College of Medical Care and Management, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Po-Ming Chen
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yi Chu
- Department of Pathology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Chung-Shang Road, Changhua County, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chi Shih
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Cheng Chi
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ching Huang
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jei Huang
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Lu-Hai Wang
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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29
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Costantino L, Ferrari S, Santucci M, Salo-Ahen OMH, Carosati E, Franchini S, Lauriola A, Pozzi C, Trande M, Gozzi G, Saxena P, Cannazza G, Losi L, Cardinale D, Venturelli A, Quotadamo A, Linciano P, Tagliazucchi L, Moschella MG, Guerrini R, Pacifico S, Luciani R, Genovese F, Henrich S, Alboni S, Santarem N, da Silva Cordeiro A, Giovannetti E, Peters GJ, Pinton P, Rimessi A, Cruciani G, Stroud RM, Wade RC, Mangani S, Marverti G, D'Arca D, Ponterini G, Costi MP. Destabilizers of the thymidylate synthase homodimer accelerate its proteasomal degradation and inhibit cancer growth. eLife 2022; 11:73862. [PMID: 36475542 PMCID: PMC9831607 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73862] [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: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Drugs that target human thymidylate synthase (hTS), a dimeric enzyme, are widely used in anticancer therapy. However, treatment with classical substrate-site-directed TS inhibitors induces over-expression of this protein and development of drug resistance. We thus pursued an alternative strategy that led us to the discovery of TS-dimer destabilizers. These compounds bind at the monomer-monomer interface and shift the dimerization equilibrium of both the recombinant and the intracellular protein toward the inactive monomers. A structural, spectroscopic, and kinetic investigation has provided evidence and quantitative information on the effects of the interaction of these small molecules with hTS. Focusing on the best among them, E7, we have shown that it inhibits hTS in cancer cells and accelerates its proteasomal degradation, thus causing a decrease in the enzyme intracellular level. E7 also showed a superior anticancer profile to fluorouracil in a mouse model of human pancreatic and ovarian cancer. Thus, over sixty years after the discovery of the first TS prodrug inhibitor, fluorouracil, E7 breaks the link between TS inhibition and enhanced expression in response, providing a strategy to fight drug-resistant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Costantino
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Stefania Ferrari
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Matteo Santucci
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Outi MH Salo-Ahen
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical StudiesHeidelbergGermany
| | - Emanuele Carosati
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Silvia Franchini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Angela Lauriola
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Cecilia Pozzi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Matteo Trande
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Gaia Gozzi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Puneet Saxena
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Giuseppe Cannazza
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Lorena Losi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Daniela Cardinale
- Respiratory, Critical Care & Anesthesia UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child HealthLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Alberto Venturelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Antonio Quotadamo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Pasquale Linciano
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | | | - Maria Gaetana Moschella
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, ItalyModenaItaly
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science, University of FerraraFerraraItaly
| | - Salvatore Pacifico
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science, University of FerraraFerraraItaly
| | - Rosaria Luciani
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Filippo Genovese
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Stefan Henrich
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical StudiesHeidelbergGermany
| | - Silvia Alboni
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | | | - Anabela da Silva Cordeiro
- IBMC I3SPortoPortugal,Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of PortoPortoPortugal
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1081HV, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands,CancerPharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la ScienzaPisaItaly
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1081HV, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Paolo Pinton
- Dept. of Medical Sciences and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of FerraraFerraraItaly
| | - Alessandro Rimessi
- Dept. of Medical Sciences and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of FerraraFerraraItaly
| | - Gabriele Cruciani
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Robert M Stroud
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Department, University of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Rebecca C Wade
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical StudiesHeidelbergGermany,Interdisciplinary Center for Scientific Computing (IWR), Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany,Center for Molecular Biology (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| | - Stefano Mangani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Gaetano Marverti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Domenico D'Arca
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Glauco Ponterini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
| | - Maria Paola Costi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModenaItaly
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30
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Yang X, Liao HY, Zhang HH. Roles of MET in human cancer. Clin Chim Acta 2021; 525:69-83. [PMID: 34951962 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2021.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The MET proto-oncogene was first identified in osteosarcoma cells exposed to carcinogens. Although expressed in many normal cells, MET is overexpressed in many human cancers. MET is involved in the initiation and development of various human cancers and mediates proliferation, migration and invasion. Accordingly, MET has been successfully used as a biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis, survival, post-operative recurrence, risk assessment and pathologic grading, as well as a therapeutic target. In addition, recent work indicates that inhibition of MET expression and function has potential clinical benefit. This review summarizes the role, mechanism, and clinical significance of MET in the formation and development of human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China; Department of Orthopaedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Hai-Yang Liao
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China; Department of Orthopaedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Hai-Hong Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China; Department of Orthopaedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, PR China.
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31
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Modi U, Makwana P, Vasita R. Molecular insights of metastasis and cancer progression derived using 3D cancer spheroid co-culture in vitro platform. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 168:103511. [PMID: 34740822 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The multistep metastasis process is carried out by the combinatorial effect of the stromal cells and the cancerous cells and plays vital role in the cancer progression. The scaffold/physical cues aided 3D cancer spheroid imitates the spatiotemporal organization and physiological properties of the tumor. Understanding the role of the key players in different stages of metastasis, the molecular cross-talk between the stromal cells and the cancer cells contributing in the advancement of the metastasis through 3D cancer spheroid co-culture in vitro platform is the center of discussion in the present review. This state-of-art in vitro platform utilized to study the cancer cell host defence and the role of exosomes in the cross talk leading to cancer progression has been critically examined here. 3D cancer spheroid co-culture technique is the promising next-generation in vitro approach for exploring potent treatments and personalized medicines to combat cancer metastasis leading to cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Unnati Modi
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, India
| | - Pooja Makwana
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, India
| | - Rajesh Vasita
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, India.
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32
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Miquel M, Zhang S, Pilarsky C. Pre-clinical Models of Metastasis in Pancreatic Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:748631. [PMID: 34778259 PMCID: PMC8578999 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.748631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a hostile solid malignancy coupled with an extremely high mortality rate. Metastatic disease is already found in most patients at the time of diagnosis, resulting in a 5-year survival rate below 5%. Improved comprehension of the mechanisms leading to metastasis is pivotal for the development of new targeted therapies. A key field to be improved are modeling strategies applied in assessing cancer progression, since traditional platforms fail in recapitulating the complexity of PDAC. Consequently, there is a compelling demand for new preclinical models that mirror tumor progression incorporating the pressure of the immune system, tumor microenvironment, as well as molecular aspects of PDAC. We suggest the incorporation of 3D organoids derived from genetically engineered mouse models or patients as promising new tools capable to transform PDAC pre-clinical modeling and access new frontiers in personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Miquel
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Shuman Zhang
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Pilarsky
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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33
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The tumor microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: current perspectives and future directions. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 40:675-689. [PMID: 34591240 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-09988-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the most lethal malignancies and is characterized by a unique tumor microenvironment (TME) consisting of an abundant stromal component. Many features contained with the PDAC stroma contribute to resistance to cytotoxic and immunotherapeutic regimens, as well as the propensity for this tumor to metastasize. At the cellular level, PDAC cells crosstalk with a complex mixture of non-neoplastic cell types including fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells. These intricate interactions fuel the progression and therapeutic resistance of this aggressive cancer. Moreover, data suggest the polarization of these cell types, in particular immune and fibroblast populations, dictate how PDAC tumors grow, metastasize, and respond to therapy. As a result, current research is focused on how to best target these populations to render tumors responsive to treatment. Herein, we summarize the cell populations implicated in providing a supporting role for the development and progression of PDAC. We focus on stromal fibroblasts and immune subsets that have been widely researched. We discuss factors which govern the phenotype of these populations and provide insight on how they have been targeted therapeutically. This review provides an overview of the tumor microenvironment and postulates that cellular and soluble factors within the microenvironment can be specifically targeted to improve patient outcomes.
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34
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Betriu N, Andreeva A, Semino CE. Erlotinib Promotes Ligand-Induced EGFR Degradation in 3D but Not 2D Cultures of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4504. [PMID: 34572731 PMCID: PMC8470972 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13184504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a tyrosine kinase receptor that participates in many biological processes such as cell proliferation. In addition, EGFR is overexpressed in many epithelial cancers and therefore is a target for cancer therapy. Moreover, EGFR responds to lots of stimuli by internalizing into endosomes from where it can be recycled to the membrane or further sorted into lysosomes where it undergoes degradation. Two-dimensional cell cultures have been classically used to study EGFR trafficking mechanisms in cancer cells. However, it has been widely demonstrated that in 2D cultures cells are exposed to a non-physiological environment as compared to 3D cultures that provide the normal cellular conformation, matrix dimensionality and stiffness, as well as molecular gradients. Therefore, the microenvironment of solid tumors is better recreated in 3D culture models, and this is why they are becoming a more physiological alternative to study cancer physiology. Here, we develop a new model of EGFR internalization and degradation upon erlotinib treatment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells cultured in a 3D self-assembling peptide scaffold. In this work, we show that treatment with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor erlotinib promotes EGFR degradation in 3D cultures of PDAC cell lines but not in 2D cultures. We also show that this receptor degradation does not occur in normal fibroblast cells, regardless of culture dimensionality. In conclusion, we demonstrate not only that erlotinib has a distinct effect on tumor and normal cells but also that pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells respond differently to drug treatment when cultured in a 3D microenvironment. This study highlights the importance of culture systems that can more accurately mimic the in vivo tumor physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Carlos E. Semino
- Tissue Engineering Research Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, IQS-School of Engineering, Ramon Llull University, 08017 Barcelona, Spain; (N.B.); (A.A.)
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35
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Pecoraro C, Faggion B, Balboni B, Carbone D, Peters GJ, Diana P, Assaraf YG, Giovannetti E. GSK3β as a novel promising target to overcome chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer. Drug Resist Updat 2021; 58:100779. [PMID: 34461526 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2021.100779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive malignancy with increasing incidence and poor prognosis due to its late diagnosis and intrinsic chemoresistance. Most pancreatic cancer patients present with locally advanced or metastatic disease characterized by inherent resistance to chemotherapy. These features pose a series of therapeutic challenges and new targets are urgently needed. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) is a conserved serine/threonine kinase, which regulates key cellular processes including cell proliferation, DNA repair, cell cycle progression, signaling and metabolic pathways. GSK3β is implicated in non-malignant and malignant diseases including inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes and cancer. GSK3β recently emerged among the key factors involved in the onset and progression of pancreatic cancer, as well as in the acquisition of chemoresistance. Intensive research has been conducted on key oncogenic functions of GSK3β and its potential as a druggable target; currently developed GSK3β inhibitors display promising results in preclinical models of distinct tumor types, including pancreatic cancer. Here, we review the latest findings about GSK-3β biology and its role in the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. Moreover, we discuss therapeutic agents targeting GSK3β that could be administered as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs to surmount chemoresistance. Several studies are also defining potential gene signatures to identify patients who might benefit from GSK3β-based therapeutic intervention. This detailed overview emphasizes the urgent need of additional molecular studies on the impact of GSK3β inhibition as well as structural analysis of novel compounds and omics studies of predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Pecoraro
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Beatrice Faggion
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Beatrice Balboni
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Computational and Chemical Biology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genoa, Italy, and Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Carbone
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland
| | - Patrizia Diana
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Yehuda G Assaraf
- The Fred Wyszkowski Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 3200003, Israel
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme (Pisa), Italy.
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36
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Supadmanaba IGP, Comandatore A, Morelli L, Giovannetti E, Lagerweij T. Organotypic-liver slide culture systems to explore the role of extracellular vesicles in pancreatic cancer metastatic behavior and guide new therapeutic approaches. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2021; 17:937-946. [PMID: 33945374 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2021.1925646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Recent studies suggested that extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a role both in the metastatic niche formation and in the progression of several tumors, including pancreatic cancer. In particular, the effects of EVs on metastasis should be studied in model systems that take into account both the tumor cells and the metastatic site/tumor microenvironment. Studies with labeled EVs or EV-secreting cells in ex vivo models will reflect the physiological and pathological functions of EVs. The organotypic-tissue slide culture systems can fulfill such a role.Areas covered: This review provides an overview of available organotypic-culture slide systems. We specifically focus on the assay system of liver culture-slides in combination with pancreatic tumors, which can be modulated to test the efficacy of new therapeutic approaches.Expert opinion: The intercellular exchange of EVs has emerged as a biologically relevant phenomenon to drive cancer metastasis. However, further models need to be developed to better elucidate the functional roles of EVs. The use of novel organotypic slide culture systems provides the opportunity to explore the role of EVs in the metastatic behavior of pancreatic cancer, decreasing the use of costly and cumbersome organoid or animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Gede Putu Supadmanaba
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Udayana, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - Annalisa Comandatore
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Morelli
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start-Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Tonny Lagerweij
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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37
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Zare MR, Khorram M, Barzegar S, Sarkari B, Asgari Q, Ahadian S, Zomorodian K. Dissolvable carboxymethyl cellulose/polyvinylpyrrolidone microneedle arrays for transdermal delivery of Amphotericin B to treat cutaneous leishmaniasis. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 182:1310-1321. [PMID: 34000308 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.05.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a significant public health problem caused by different species of Leishmania parasites. Due to low skin permeability, the development of an effective system for delivery of Amphotericin B (AMB), the common effective drug for leishmaniasis treatment, is required to replace the unpleasant and problematic injections. To overcome this problem, a dissolvable microneedle (MN) patch was developed, using biodegradable polymers (a mixture of polyvinylpyrrolidone and carboxymethyl cellulose) for AMB's transdermal delivery. Scanning electron microscopy and fluorescent images showed successful fabrication of the MNs and homogeneous dispersion of the drug into the needles. MNs showed good mechanical properties with the ability to penetrate the rat skin and reach the lower layers. After insertion to the skin, the MNs were rapidly dissolved to release the encapsulated drug, and the resulted micropores in the skin were quickly resealed within 30 min. MN patches showed non-toxicity as exposed to HT-29 cell line. Flow cytometry results showed a potent in vitro leishmanicidal activity of AMB-loaded MN patches against the Leishmania parasites (up to 86% of the parasites' death). Taken together, MN patches might represent a new, efficient and clinically translational approach for transdermal AMB delivery to treat CL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Zare
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71348-51154, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khorram
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71348-51154, Iran.
| | - Sajjad Barzegar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71348-51154, Iran
| | - Bahador Sarkari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran; Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran
| | - Qasem Asgari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran
| | - Samad Ahadian
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran; Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran.
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Gu ZT, Li ZZ, Wang CF. Advances in research of extracellular mechanisms underlying gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2021; 29:421-434. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v29.i8.421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a solid malignant tumor with the worst prognosis worldwide, and about 90% of cases are pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Although surgical resection is the only potential way to cure PDAC, the overall survival rate after surgery is still not optimistic. Consequently, gemcitabine (GEM)-based chemotherapy is still one of the most important treatment options for PDAC. However, the survival improvement by GEM monotherapy for advanced PDAC is very limited, and GEM resistance is the key reason. The mechanism underlying gemcitabine resistance is complex and still unclear in PDAC. The extensive and dense fibrous mesenchyme in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is an important feature of PDAC. More and more evidence has shown that TME is not only an active participant in tumor growth and spread, but also a contributor to the induction of GEM resistance. This article will review the recent advances in the understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying GEM resistance in PDAC, and discuss potential GEM chemosensitization strategies, in order to improve the effective rate of chemotherapy and the outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zong-Ting Gu
- Cheng-Feng Wang, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology & Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Zong-Ze Li
- Cheng-Feng Wang, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology & Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
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Imidazopyridine hydrazone derivatives exert antiproliferative effect on lung and pancreatic cancer cells and potentially inhibit receptor tyrosine kinases including c-Met. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3644. [PMID: 33574356 PMCID: PMC7878917 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83069-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of c-Met signalling plays a prominent role in cancer development and progression. A series of 12 imidazo [1,2-α] pyridine derivatives bearing 1,2,3-triazole moiety were designed, synthesized and evaluated for c-Met inhibitory potential and anticancer effect. The inhibitory activity of all synthesized compounds against c-Met kinase was evaluated by a homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay at the concentration range of 5-25 µM. Derivatives 6d, 6e and 6f bearing methyl, tertiary butyl and dichloro-phenyl moieties on the triazole ring, respectively, were the compounds with the highest potential. They significantly inhibited c-Met by 55.3, 53.0 and 51.3%, respectively, at the concentration of 25 µM. Synthetic compounds showed antiproliferative effects against lung (EBC-1) and pancreatic cancer cells (AsPc-1, Suit-2 and Mia-PaCa-2) expressing different levels of c-Met, with IC50 values as low as 3.0 µM measured by sulforhodamine B assay. Active derivatives significantly blocked c-Met phosphorylation, inhibited cell growth in three-dimensional spheroid cultures and also induced apoptosis as revealed by Annexin V/propidium iodide flow cytometric assay in AsPc-1 cells. They also inhibited PDGFRA and FLT3 at 25 µM among a panel of 16 kinases. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation studies corroborated the experimental findings and revealed possible binding modes of the select derivatives with target receptor tyrosine kinases. The results of this study show that some imidazopyridine derivatives bearing 1,2,3-triazole moiety could be promising molecularly targeted anticancer agents against lung and pancreatic cancers.
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Wang Z, Yang Y, Hu S, He J, Wu Z, Qi Z, Huang M, Liu R, Lin Y, Tan C, Xu M, Zhang Z. Short-form RON (sf-RON) enhances glucose metabolism to promote cell proliferation via activating β-catenin/SIX1 signaling pathway in gastric cancer. Cell Biol Toxicol 2021; 37:35-49. [PMID: 32399910 PMCID: PMC7851020 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-020-09525-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Recepteur d'origine nantais (RON) has been implicated in cell proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance of various human malignancies. The short-form RON (sf-RON) encoded by RON transcripts was overexpressed in gastric cancer tissues, but its regulatory functions remain illustrated. Here, we found that sf-RON promoted gastric cancer cell proliferation by enhancing glucose metabolism. Furthermore, sf-RON was proved to induce the β-catenin expression level through the AKT1/GSK3β signaling pathway. Meanwhile, the binding sites of β-catenin were identified in the promoter region of SIX1 and it was also demonstrated that β-catenin positively regulated SIX1 expression. SIX1 enhanced the promoter activity of key proteins in glucose metabolism, such as GLUT1 and LDHA. Results indicated that sf-RON regulated the cell proliferation and glucose metabolism of gastric cancer by participating in a sf-RON/β-catenin/SIX1 signaling axis and had significant implications for choosing the therapeutic target of gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziliang Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology and Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School Medicine, Shanghai, 200092 China
| | - Yufei Yang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Shuang Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, Eye & Ent Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031 China
| | - Jian He
- Department of Medical Oncology and Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Zheng Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology and Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong’an Road, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Zihao Qi
- Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040 China
| | - Mingzhu Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology and Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong’an Road, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Rujiao Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology and Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong’an Road, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Ying Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology and Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong’an Road, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Cong Tan
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong’an Road, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong’an Road, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Midie Xu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong’an Road, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong’an Road, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology and Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong’an Road, Shanghai, 200032 China
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Moosavi F, Giovannetti E, Peters GJ, Firuzi O. Combination of HGF/MET-targeting agents and other therapeutic strategies in cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 160:103234. [PMID: 33497758 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MET receptor has emerged as a druggable target across several human cancers. Agents targeting MET and its ligand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) including small molecules such as crizotinib, tivantinib and cabozantinib or antibodies including rilotumumab and onartuzumab have proven their values in different tumors. Recently, capmatinib was approved for treatment of metastatic lung cancer with MET exon 14 skipping. In this review, we critically examine the current evidence on how HGF/MET combination therapies may take advantage of synergistic effects, overcome primary or acquired drug resistance, target tumor microenvironment, modulate drug metabolism or tackle pharmacokinetic issues. Preclinical and clinical studies on the combination of HGF/MET-targeted agents with conventional chemotherapeutics or molecularly targeted treatments (including EGFR, VEGFR, HER2, RAF/MEK, and PI3K/Akt targeting agents) and also the value of biomarkers are examined. Our deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying successful pharmacological combinations is crucial to find the best personalized treatment regimens for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Moosavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Hernández-Lemus E, Martínez-García M. Pathway-Based Drug-Repurposing Schemes in Cancer: The Role of Translational Bioinformatics. Front Oncol 2021; 10:605680. [PMID: 33520715 PMCID: PMC7841291 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.605680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a set of complex pathologies that has been recognized as a major public health problem worldwide for decades. A myriad of therapeutic strategies is indeed available. However, the wide variability in tumor physiology, response to therapy, added to multi-drug resistance poses enormous challenges in clinical oncology. The last years have witnessed a fast-paced development of novel experimental and translational approaches to therapeutics, that supplemented with computational and theoretical advances are opening promising avenues to cope with cancer defiances. At the core of these advances, there is a strong conceptual shift from gene-centric emphasis on driver mutations in specific oncogenes and tumor suppressors-let us call that the silver bullet approach to cancer therapeutics-to a systemic, semi-mechanistic approach based on pathway perturbations and global molecular and physiological regulatory patterns-we will call this the shrapnel approach. The silver bullet approach is still the best one to follow when clonal mutations in driver genes are present in the patient, and when there are targeted therapies to tackle those. Unfortunately, due to the heterogeneous nature of tumors this is not the common case. The wide molecular variability in the mutational level often is reduced to a much smaller set of pathway-based dysfunctions as evidenced by the well-known hallmarks of cancer. In such cases "shrapnel gunshots" may become more effective than "silver bullets". Here, we will briefly present both approaches and will abound on the discussion on the state of the art of pathway-based therapeutic designs from a translational bioinformatics and computational oncology perspective. Further development of these approaches depends on building collaborative, multidisciplinary teams to resort to the expertise of clinical oncologists, oncological surgeons, and molecular oncologists, but also of cancer cell biologists and pharmacologists, as well as bioinformaticians, computational biologists and data scientists. These teams will be capable of engaging on a cycle of analyzing high-throughput experiments, mining databases, researching on clinical data, validating the findings, and improving clinical outcomes for the benefits of the oncological patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Hernández-Lemus
- Computational Genomics Division, National Institute of Genomic Medicine, Mexico City, Mexico
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mireya Martínez-García
- Sociomedical Research Unit, National Institute of Cardiology “Ignacio Chávez”, Mexico City, Mexico
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Antiproliferative effect, alteration of cancer cell cycle progression and potential MET kinase inhibition induced by 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-one C5 amide derivatives. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 894:173850. [PMID: 33428899 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.173850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cancer continues to be the second leading cause of death worldwide. Discovery of novel therapeutic agents has crucial importance for improvement of our medical management capabilities. Dysregulation of the MET receptor tyrosine kinase pathway plays an important role in cancer progression, making this receptor an attractive molecular target for anticancer drug discovery. In this study, twenty-seven 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-one C5 amide derivatives were synthesized and their cancer cell growth inhibitory activity was examined against MCF-7, HT-29 and MOLT-4 cells and also NIH/3T3 non-cancer cells by MTT assay. The antiproliferative effect of the most potent derivatives were tested against MET-dependent EBC-1 and MKN-45, lung and gastric cancer cell lines, respectively. MET kinase inhibition was measured by a Homogenous Time Resolved Fluorescence (HTRF) Assay. The influence of the test compounds on cell cycle was examined by RNase/PI flow cytometric assay. A number of compounds exhibited considerable antiproliferative effects against breast and colon cancer and leukemia cell lines, relatively sparing non-cancer cells. Some derivatives bearing benzothiazolyl carboxamide moiety at C5 position (15, 21, 23, 31, and 37) showed the highest activities with IC50 values as low as 10.9 μM. These compounds showed antiproliferative effects also against MET-amplified cells and dose-dependently inhibited MET kinase activity. They also induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest at lower doses and apoptosis at higher doses. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation studies confirmed the interaction of compound 23 with the active site of the MET receptor. These findings demonstrate that 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-one analogues may represent promising targeted anticancer agents.
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Edraki N, Jamei MH, Haghighijoo Z, Kayani Z, Raufi E, Eskandari M, Firouzi M, Sadeghpour H, Miri R, Khoshneviszadeh M, Firuzi O. Phenanthrotriazine Derivatives Containing Arylidine Hydrazone Moieties as Novel Potential c-Met Inhibitors with Anticancer Effect. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2021; 20:516-531. [PMID: 34904005 PMCID: PMC8653689 DOI: 10.22037/ijpr.2021.114371.14835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is the second cause of death in the world and the discovery of novel anticancer agents is of vital importance to provide better therapeutic options for cancer patients. In this study, a new series of 12 arylidene hydrazone phenanthrotriazine derivatives were designed, synthesized, and tested in-vitro for antiproliferative activity against three cancer cell lines including colorectal cancer (HT-29), breast cancer (MCF-7) and leukemia (MOLT-4) cells and also against Vero normal cells. The effect of derivatives on cell cycle and apoptosis induction were studied by flow cytometric propidium iodide/RNase assay and Hoechst 33258 staining, respectively, while docking analysis was used to investigate the interactions of synthesized derivatives with the c-Met receptor kinase domain. Some compounds showed considerable antiproliferative activity against tested cancer cells. The most potent derivative was 9k bearing pyrrole moiety with IC50 values of 14.3, 4.7 and 1.7 µM against HT-29, MCF-7 and MOLT-4 cells, respectively, while it showed negligible activity against Vero normal cells (IC50: 95.4 µM). Derivatives bearing 2-nitrophenyl (9g), 4-cyanophenyl (9j), pyrrole (9k), and thiophene (9l) moieties induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and also apoptosis at higher doses in MCF-7 cells. Docking study showed that the phenanthrotriazine backbone form H-bond interactions with Asn1209, while phenyl moieties of the pendants generate different hydrophobic interactions with the Asp1164 and Asp1231 residues of c-Met. In conclusion, phenanthrene 1,2,4-triazines, especially the ones with less influence on normal cells, may constitute promising compounds for the discovery of antiproliferative agents with potential c-Met inhibitory capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najmeh Edraki
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Hasan Jamei
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Zahra Haghighijoo
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Zahra Kayani
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Elaheh Raufi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Masoomeh Eskandari
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Maryam Firouzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Hossein Sadeghpour
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Ramin Miri
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Khoshneviszadeh
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. ,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Corresponding author: E-mail: ;
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. ,Corresponding author: E-mail: ;
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Yu Y, Schuck K, Friess H, Kong B. Targeting Aggressive Fibroblasts to Enhance the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 25:5-13. [PMID: 33246383 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2021.1857727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most malignant cancer entities, which is characterized by abundant desmoplastic stroma. The stroma consists of extracellular matrix, infiltrating immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and others. Depending on environmental cues, CAFs can be highly heterogeneous and play context-dependent roles in PDAC progression. AREAS COVERED In this article, we discuss the biological significance of CAFs heterogeneity (oncogenic vs. tumor-suppressive) in pancreatic carcinogenesis. In particular, the complex interaction between CAFs and infiltrating immune cells has a determinant role in defining the stromal composition. A subset of PDAC patients may benefit from anti-CAFs therapy. EXPERT OPINION Co-defined by CAFs and infiltrating immune cells, the prognostic stroma signature is clinically relevant in a subset of human PDAC. This is the patient population which may benefit from future anti-stroma or anti-CAFs therapies. To consider CAF heterogeneity is crucial for designing anti-stroma studies. Here, reliable and traceable subtype-specific markers for CAFs are urgently needed to dissect the biological impact of CAF heterogeneity on PDAC development spatiotemporally. Given the significant contribution of CAFs to immunosuppressive microenvironment of PDAC, it is conceivable to combine anti-CAFs therapy with immunotherapy. To implement a CAF-subtype specific therapy is crucially important to improve the effectiveness of current treatments including chemotherapies and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Yu
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM) , Munich, Germany
| | - Kathleen Schuck
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM) , Munich, Germany
| | - Helmut Friess
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM) , Munich, Germany
| | - Bo Kong
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM) , Munich, Germany
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Pothula SP, Xu Z, Goldstein D, Pirola RC, Wilson JS, Apte MV. Targeting HGF/c-MET Axis in Pancreatic Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9170. [PMID: 33271944 PMCID: PMC7730415 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC/PC)) has been an aggressive disease that is associated with early metastases. It is characterized by dense and collagenous desmoplasia/stroma, predominantly produced by pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). PSCs interact with cancer cells as well as other stromal cells, facilitating disease progression. A candidate growth factor pathway that may mediate this interaction is the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-MET pathway. HGF is produced by PSCs and its receptor c-MET is expressed on pancreatic cancer cells and endothelial cells. The current review discusses the role of the MET/HGF axis in tumour progression and dissemination of pancreatic cancer. Therapeutic approaches that were developed targeting either the ligand (HGF) or the receptor (c-MET) have not been shown to translate well into clinical settings. We discuss a two-pronged approach of targeting both the components of this pathway to interrupt the stromal-tumour interactions, which may represent a potential therapeutic strategy to improve outcomes in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivasa P. Pothula
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia; (S.P.P.); (Z.X.); (R.C.P.); (J.S.W.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;
| | - Zhihong Xu
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia; (S.P.P.); (Z.X.); (R.C.P.); (J.S.W.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;
| | - David Goldstein
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;
| | - Romano C. Pirola
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia; (S.P.P.); (Z.X.); (R.C.P.); (J.S.W.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;
| | - Jeremy S. Wilson
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia; (S.P.P.); (Z.X.); (R.C.P.); (J.S.W.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;
| | - Minoti V. Apte
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia; (S.P.P.); (Z.X.); (R.C.P.); (J.S.W.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;
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Zhou Y, Xu X, Wang F, He H, Qi B. Discovery of 4-((4-(4-(3-(2-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-4-oxothiazolidin-3-yl)ureido)-2-fluorophenoxy)-6-methoxyquinolin-7-yl)oxy)-N,N-diethylpiperidine-1-carboxamide as kinase inhibitor for the treatment of colorectal cancer. Bioorg Chem 2020; 106:104511. [PMID: 33272707 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2020.104511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a novel series of 4,6,7-trisubstituted quinoline analogues bearing thiazolidinones were designed and synthesized based on our previous study. Among them, the most potent compound 15i, 4-((4-(4-(3-(2-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-4-oxothiazolidin-3-yl)ureido)-2-fluorophenoxy)-6-methoxyquinolin-7-yl)oxy)-N,N-diethylpiperidine-1-carboxamide was identified as a multi-kinase inhibitor. The results of MTT assay revealed in vitro antitumor activities against HT-29 cells of compound 15i with an IC50 value of 0.19 μM which was 14.5-fold more potent than that of Regorafenib. In the cellular context, significant antiproliferation, cytotoxicity and induction of apoptosis on HT-29 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner were confirmed by IncuCyte live-cell imaging assays. Moreover, compound 15i strongly induced apoptosis by arresting cell cycle into the G2/M phase. No antiproliferation and cytotoxicity against human normal colorectal mucosa epithelial cell FHC was observed at 10.0 μg/mL or lower concentrations which indicated that the toxicity to normal cells of compound 15i was much lower than that of Regorafenib. Based on the above findings, further structural modification will be conducted for the development of more potent kinase inhibitors as anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Zhou
- Department of Bioengineering, Zhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai 519041, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xingwei Xu
- Department of Bioengineering, Zhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai 519041, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, Zhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai 519041, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Huan He
- Department of Bioengineering, Zhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai 519041, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Baohui Qi
- Department of Bioengineering, Zhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai 519041, Guangdong Province, China.
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Doctor A, Seifert V, Ullrich M, Hauser S, Pietzsch J. Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Systems in Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102765. [PMID: 32993034 PMCID: PMC7600608 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In preclinical cancer research, three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems such as multicellular spheroids and organoids are becoming increasingly important. They provide valuable information before studies on animal models begin and, in some cases, are even suitable for reducing or replacing animal experiments. Furthermore, they recapitulate microtumors, metastases, and the tumor microenvironment much better than monolayer culture systems could. Three-dimensional models show higher structural complexity and diverse cell interactions while reflecting (patho)physiological phenomena such as oxygen and nutrient gradients in the course of their growth or development. These interactions and properties are of great importance for understanding the pathophysiological importance of stromal cells and the extracellular matrix for tumor progression, treatment response, or resistance mechanisms of solid tumors. Special emphasis is placed on co-cultivation with tumor-associated cells, which further increases the predictive value of 3D models, e.g., for drug development. The aim of this overview is to shed light on selected 3D models and their advantages and disadvantages, especially from the radiopharmacist's point of view with focus on the suitability of 3D models for the radiopharmacological characterization of novel radiotracers and radiotherapeutics. Special attention is paid to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) as a predestined target for the development of new radionuclide-based theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Doctor
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Verena Seifert
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Ullrich
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
| | - Sandra Hauser
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
| | - Jens Pietzsch
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-351-260-2622
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Mantini G, Vallés AM, Le Large TYS, Capula M, Funel N, Pham TV, Piersma SR, Kazemier G, Bijlsma MF, Giovannetti E, Jimenez CR. Co-expression analysis of pancreatic cancer proteome reveals biology and prognostic biomarkers. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2020; 43:1147-1159. [PMID: 32860207 PMCID: PMC7716908 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-020-00548-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Despite extensive biological and clinical studies, including comprehensive genomic and transcriptomic profiling efforts, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a devastating disease, with a poor survival and limited therapeutic options. The goal of this study was to assess co-expressed PDAC proteins and their associations with biological pathways and clinical parameters. Methods Correlation network analysis is emerging as a powerful approach to infer tumor biology from omics data and to prioritize candidate genes as biomarkers or drug targets. In this study, we applied a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to the proteome of 20 surgically resected PDAC specimens (PXD015744) and confirmed its clinical value in 82 independent primary cases. Results Using WGCNA, we obtained twelve co-expressed clusters with a distinct biology. Notably, we found that one module enriched for metabolic processes and epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) was significantly associated with overall survival (p = 0.01) and disease-free survival (p = 0.03). The prognostic value of three proteins (SPTBN1, KHSRP and PYGL) belonging to this module was confirmed using immunohistochemistry in a cohort of 82 independent resected patients. Risk score evaluation of the prognostic signature confirmed its association with overall survival in multivariate analyses. Finally, immunofluorescence analysis confirmed co-expression of SPTBN1 and KHSRP in Hs766t PDAC cells. Conclusions Our WGCNA analysis revealed a PDAC module enriched for metabolic and EMT-associated processes. In addition, we found that three of the proteins involved were associated with PDAC survival. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s13402-020-00548-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Mantini
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Fondazione Pisana Per La Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - A M Vallés
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - T Y S Le Large
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam UMC, Univ of Amsterdam, Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Surgery, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Capula
- Fondazione Pisana Per La Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - N Funel
- U.O. Anatomia ed Istologia Patologica II Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Pisana , Pisa, Italy
| | - T V Pham
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S R Piersma
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Kazemier
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Surgery, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M F Bijlsma
- U.O. Anatomia ed Istologia Patologica II Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Pisana , Pisa, Italy.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E Giovannetti
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Fondazione Pisana Per La Scienza, Pisa, Italy.
| | - C R Jimenez
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Pancreatic cancer resistance conferred by stellate cells: looking for new preclinical models. Exp Hematol Oncol 2020; 9:18. [PMID: 32775041 PMCID: PMC7398063 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-020-00176-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has an extremely poor response to chemo- and (modest-dose conventionally fractionated) radio-therapy. Emerging evidence suggests that pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) secrete deoxycytidine, which confers resistance to gemcitabine. In particular, deoxycytidine was detected by analysis of metabolites in fractionated media from different mouse PSCs, showing that it caused PDAC cells chemoresistance by reducing the capacity of deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) for gemcitabine phosphorylation. However, data on human models are missing and dCK expression was not associated with clinical efficacy of gemcitabine. We recently established co-culture models of hetero-spheroids including primary human PSCs and PDAC cells showing their importance as a platform to test the effects of cancer- and stroma-targeted drugs. Here, we discuss the limitations of previous studies and the potential use of above-mentioned models to study molecular mechanisms underlying chemo- and radio-resistance.
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