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Baylie T, Kasaw M, Getinet M, Getie G, Jemal M, Nigatu A, Ahmed H, Bogale M. The role of miRNAs as biomarkers in breast cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1374821. [PMID: 38812786 PMCID: PMC11133523 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1374821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the second most common cause of deaths reported in women worldwide, and therefore there is a need to identify BC patients at an early stage as timely diagnosis would help in effective management and appropriate monitoring of patients. This will allow for proper patient monitoring and effective care. However, the absence of a particular biomarker for BC early diagnosis and surveillance makes it difficult to accomplish these objectives. miRNAs have been identified as master regulators of the molecular pathways that are emphasized in various tumors and that lead to the advancement of malignancies. Small, non-coding RNA molecules known as miRNAs target particular mRNAs to control the expression of genes. miRNAs dysregulation has been linked to the start and development of a number of human malignancies, including BC, since there is compelling evidence that miRNAs can function as tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes. The current level of knowledge on the role of miRNAs in BC diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment is presented in this review. miRNAs can regulate the tumorigenesis of BC through targeting PI3K pathway and can be used as prognostic or diagnostic biomarkers for BC therapy. Some miRNAs, like miR-9, miR-10b, and miR-17-5p, are becoming known as biomarkers of BC for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic outcome prediction. Other miRNAs, like miR-30c, miR-187, and miR-339-5p, play significant roles in the regulation of hallmark functions of BC, including invasion, metastasis, proliferation, resting death, apoptosis, and genomic instability. Other miRNAs, such as miR-155 and miR-210, are circulating in bodily fluids and are therefore of interest as novel, conveniently accessible, reasonably priced, non-invasive methods for the customized care of patients with BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temesgen Baylie
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Mulugeta Kasaw
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Mamaru Getinet
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Gedefaw Getie
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Jemal
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Amare Nigatu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Hassen Ahmed
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Mihiret Bogale
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Wollo, Ethiopia
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Liu N, Zheng Q, Zhang Y, Wang H, Zhang Z, He L, Wei C, Xia H, Liu Y, Wang X. Hypoxia differently regulates the proportion of ALDH hi cells in lung squamous carcinoma H520 and adenocarcinoma A549 cells via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Thorac Cancer 2024. [PMID: 38736300 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.15328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a specific subpopulation of cancer cells with the ability of self-renewal, infinite proliferation, multidifferentiation and tumorigenicity, and play critical roles in cancer progression and treatment resistance. CSCs are tightly regulated by the tumor microenvironment, such as hypoxia; however, how hypoxia regulates CSCs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear. METHODS The proportion of ALDHhi cells was examined using the Aldefluor assay. Tankyrase inhibitor XAV939 and siRNA were used to inhibit β-catenin while pcDNA3-β-catenin (S33Y) plasmid enhanced the expression of β-catenin. Western blot was administered for protein detection. The mRNA expression was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS We found that hypoxia led to an increase in the proportion of ALDHhi cells in lung squamous carcinoma (LUSC) H520 cells, while causing a decrease in the ALDHhi cell proportion in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) A549 cells. Similarly, β-catenin expression was upregulated in H520 cells but downregulated in A549 cells upon exposure to hypoxia. Mechanically, the proportion of ALDHhi cells in both cell lines was decreased by β-catenin inhibitor or siRNA knockdown, whereas increased after β-catenin overexpression. Furthermore, hypoxia treatment suppressed E-cadherin expression in H520 cells and enhanced N-cadherin and β-catenin expression, while this effect was completely opposite in A549 cells. CONCLUSION The hypoxia-EMT-β-catenin axis functions as an important regulator for the proportion of CSCs in NSCLC and could potentially be explored as therapeutic targets in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qi Zheng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuqing Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Huimin Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Oncology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Zhihui Zhang
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Long He
- Department of Oncology, The Third Hospital of Jinan, Jinan, China
| | - Chenxi Wei
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Handai Xia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yanguo Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiuwen Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Loda A, Semeraro F, Parolini S, Ronca R, Rezzola S. Cancer stem-like cells in uveal melanoma: novel insights and therapeutic implications. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189104. [PMID: 38701937 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary ocular tumor in the adult population. Even though these primary tumors are successfully treated in 90% of cases, almost 50% of patients ultimately develop metastasis, mainly in the liver, via hematological dissemination, with a median survival spanning from 6 to 12 months after diagnosis. In this context, chemotherapy regimens and molecular targeted therapies have demonstrated poor response rates and failed to improve survival. Among the multiple reasons for therapy failure, the presence of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) represents the main cause of resistance to anticancer therapies. In the last few years, the existence of CSCs in UM has been demonstrated both in preclinical and clinical studies, and new molecular pathways and mechanisms have been described for this subpopulation of UM cells. Here, we will discuss the state of the art of CSC biology and their potential exploitation as therapeutic target in UM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Loda
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Eye Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Silvia Parolini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; National Center for Gene Therapy and Drugs based on RNA Technology - CN3, Padova, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Biotecnologie (CIB), Italy
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Biotecnologie (CIB), Italy
| | - Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
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Zhang C, Chen Z, Gao N, Xiong G, Chen P, Li H, Chen D, He Q, Peng L. SOX18 meditates the resistance of Bmi1-expressing cells to cetuximab in HNSCC. Oral Dis 2024; 30:1100-1113. [PMID: 37184032 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14596] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the most common type of malignancy in the head and neck region worldwide. The therapeutic strategies for HNSCC remain unsatisfying and limited. Here, we found a population of resistant Bmi1-expressing cells in the presence of cetuximab treatment and reported a novel role of SRY-box transcription factor 18 (SOX18), a member of the SOX family, in promoting HNSCC resistance to cetuximab. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanism of Sox18 in Bmi1-positive cells and to search for better therapeutic targets. METHODS We successfully obtained Bmi1CreER, RosatdTomato, and RosaDTA mice and identified Bmi1-expressing cells through lineage tracing. SOX18 expression in HNSCC and normal tissues was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, colocalization of Sox18, and Bmi1-expressing cells was analyzed by immunofluorescence, and SOX18 expression in SCC9 cell lines was quantified by western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR. The investigation of the mechanism of SOX18-mediated cetuximab resistance in Bmi1-positive cells was based on the analysis of single-cell RNA-seq data obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Western blotting was performed to verify the results obtained from the single-cell RNA-seq analysis. RESULTS In our study, we demonstrated that Bmi1-expressing cells were resistant to cetuximab treatment and that depletion of Bmi1-expressing cells improved cetuximab efficacy in HNSCC. We then discovered that Sox18 mediated the stem cell-like properties of Bmi1-expressing cells and promoted cellular cetuximab resistance through an oxidative phosphorylation pathway. There was a significant downregulation of key genes in the oxidative phosphorylation pathway in Sox18 knockout cell lines. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the findings of our study suggest that Sox18 mediates the resistance of Bmi1-expressing cells to cetuximab in HNSCC via the oxidative phosphorylation pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caihua Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center for Translational Medicine, Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center for Translational Medicine, Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nailin Gao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center for Translational Medicine, Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gan Xiong
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center for Translational Medicine, Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Oncology Department, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Li
- Stomatology Department, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Demeng Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center for Translational Medicine, Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianting He
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center for Translational Medicine, Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liang Peng
- Oncology Department, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Zhang Z, Peng Y, Peng X, Xiao D, Shi Y, Tao Y. Effects of radiation therapy on tumor microenvironment: an updated review. Chin Med J (Engl) 2023; 136:2802-2811. [PMID: 37442768 PMCID: PMC10686612 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Cancer is a major threat to human health and causes death worldwide. Research on the role of radiotherapy (RT) in the treatment of cancer is progressing; however, RT not only causes fatal DNA damage to tumor cells, but also affects the interactions between tumor cells and different components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), including immune cells, fibroblasts, macrophages, extracellular matrix, and some soluble products. Some cancer cells can survive radiation and have shown strong resistance to radiation through interaction with the TME. Currently, the complex relationships between the tumor cells and cellular components that play major roles in various TMEs are poorly understood. This review explores the relationship between RT and cell-cell communication in the TME from the perspective of immunity and hypoxia and aims to identify new RT biomarkers and treatment methods in lung cancer to improve the current status of unstable RT effect and provide a theoretical basis for further lung cancer RT sensitization research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zewen Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
| | - Yuanhao Peng
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
| | - Xin Peng
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
| | - Desheng Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
| | - Ying Shi
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
| | - Yongguang Tao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy in Lung Cancer, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
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Rainho MDA, Siqueira PB, de Amorim ÍSS, Mencalha AL, Thole AA. Mitochondria in colorectal cancer stem cells - a target in drug resistance. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:273-283. [PMID: 37457136 PMCID: PMC10344721 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2022.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed cancer and the second most deadly type of cancer worldwide. In late diagnosis, CRC can resist therapy regimens in which cancer stem cells (CSCs) are intimately related. CSCs are a subpopulation of tumor cells responsible for tumor initiation and maintenance, metastasis, and resistance to conventional treatments. In this scenario, colorectal cancer stem cells (CCSCs) are considered an important key for therapeutic failure and resistance. In its turn, mitochondria is an organelle involved in many mechanisms in cancer, including chemoresistance of cytotoxic drugs due to alterations in mitochondrial metabolism, apoptosis, dynamics, and mitophagy. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the mitochondrial role in CCSCs regarding CRC drug resistance. It has been shown that enhanced anti-apoptotic protein expression, mitophagy rate, and addiction to oxidative phosphorylation are the major strategies developed by CCSCs to avoid drug insults. Thus, new mitochondria-targeted drug approaches must be explored to mitigate CRC chemoresistance via the ablation of CCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus de Almeida Rainho
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Histology and Embryology Department, Roberto Alcantara Gomes Biology Institute, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20550-170, Brazil
| | - Priscyanne Barreto Siqueira
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Biometry and Biophysics Department, Roberto Alcantara Gomes Biology Institute, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20550-170, Brazil
| | - Ísis Salviano Soares de Amorim
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Biometry and Biophysics Department, Roberto Alcantara Gomes Biology Institute, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20550-170, Brazil
| | - Andre Luiz Mencalha
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Biometry and Biophysics Department, Roberto Alcantara Gomes Biology Institute, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20550-170, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Alves Thole
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Histology and Embryology Department, Roberto Alcantara Gomes Biology Institute, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20550-170, Brazil
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Zhu M, Li S, Cao X, Rashid K, Liu T. The STAT family: Key transcription factors mediating crosstalk between cancer stem cells and tumor immune microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 88:18-31. [PMID: 36410636 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins compose a family of transcription factors critical for cancer stem cells (CSCs), and they are involved in maintaining stemness properties, enhancing cell proliferation, and promoting metastasis. Recent studies suggest that STAT proteins engage in reciprocal communication between CSCs and infiltrate immune cell populations in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Emerging evidence has substantiated the influence of immune cells, including macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and T cells, on CSC survival through the regulation of STAT signaling. Conversely, dysregulation of STATs in CSCs or immune cells contributes to the establishment of an immunosuppressive TME. Thus, STAT proteins are promising therapeutic targets for cancer treatment, especially when used in combination with immunotherapy. From this perspective, we discuss the complex roles of STATs in CSCs and highlight their functions in the crosstalk between CSCs and the immune microenvironment. Finally, cutting-edge clinical trial progress with STAT signaling inhibitors is summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxuan Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suyao Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Cao
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Khalid Rashid
- Department of Cancer Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Tianshu Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Osum M, Kalkan R. Cancer Stem Cells and Their Therapeutic Usage. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1436:69-85. [PMID: 36689167 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2022_758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) have unique characteristics which include self-renewal, multi-directional differentiation capacity, quiescence/dormancy, and tumor-forming capability. These characteristics are referred to as the "stemness" properties. Tumor microenvironment contributes to CSC survival, function, and remaining them in an undifferentiated state. CSCs can form malignant tumors with heterogeneous phenotypes mediated by the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, the crosstalk between CSCs and tumor microenvironment can modulate tumor heterogeneity. CSCs play a crucial role in several biological processes, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), autophagy, and cellular stress response. In this chapter, we focused characteristics of cancer stem cells, reprogramming strategies cells into CSCs, and then we highlighted the contribution of CSCs to therapy resistance and cancer relapse and their potential of therapeutic targeting of CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meryem Osum
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Near East University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Rasime Kalkan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Cyprus Health and Social Sciences University, Guzelyurt, Cyprus.
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An J, Hu X, Liu F. Current understanding of cancer stem cells: Immune evasion and targeted immunotherapy in gastrointestinal malignancies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1114621. [PMID: 36910604 PMCID: PMC9996315 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1114621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As a relatively rare population of cancer cells existing in the tumor microenvironment, cancer stem cells (CSCs) possess properties of immune privilege to evade the attack of immune system, regulated by the microenvironment of CSCs, the so-called CSCs niche. The bidirectional interaction of CSCs with tumor microenvironment (TME) components favors an immunosuppressive shelter for CSCs' survival and maintenance. Gastrointestinal cancer stem cells (GCSCs) are broadly regarded to be intimately involved in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis and recurrence, with elevated tumor resistance to conventional therapies, which pose a major hindrance to the clinical efficacy for treated patients with gastrointestinal malignancies. Thus, a multitude of efforts have been made to combat and eradicate GCSCs within the tumor mass. Among diverse methods of targeting CSCs in gastrointestinal malignancies, immunotherapy represents a promising strategy. And the better understanding of GCSCs immunomodulation and immunoresistance mechanisms is beneficial to guide and design novel GCSCs-specific immunotherapies with enhanced immune response and clinical efficacy. In this review, we have gathered available and updated information to present an overview of the immunoevasion features harbored by cancer stem cells, and we focus on the description of immune escape strategies utilized by CSCs and microenvironmental regulations underlying CSCs immuno-suppression in the context of gastrointestinal malignancies. Importantly, this review offers deep insights into recent advances of CSC-targeting immunotherapeutic approaches in gastrointestinal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi An
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohua Hu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Kim R, Kawai A, Wakisaka M, Shimoyama M, Yasuda N, Kin T, Arihiro K. Breast cancer recurrence and survival rates in patients who underwent breast-conserving surgery under non-mechanically ventilated anesthesia. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2023; 6:e1643. [PMID: 35655440 PMCID: PMC9875645 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrence after primary treatment is an important obstacle to the curing of primary breast cancer. Less-immunosuppressive anesthetic techniques, such as local anesthesia with lidocaine, intravenous anesthesia (IVA) with propofol, and/or sedation with midazolam under spontaneous breathing may reduce breast cancer recurrence compared with standard general anesthesia techniques such as IVA and inhalation anesthesia with opioids under mechanical ventilation. AIM The aim of this study was to analyze the factors involved in breast cancer recurrence in patients who underwent breast-conserving surgery (BCS) under non-mechanically ventilated anesthesia. METHODS The study included 491 consecutive patients with stages 0-III breast cancer who underwent BCS/axillary lymph-node management with local anesthesia and IVA and/or sedation under non-mechanical ventilation between May 2008 and September 2021. Survival and recurrence were assessed by retrospective cohort analysis. RESULTS The median follow-up period was 2565 days (range, 28-4834 days). The overall and breast cancer-specific survival rates were 92.9% and 95.6%, respectively. Twenty-one deaths, of which 11 were breast cancer-related, occurred. Disease recurred in 29 (5.9%) patients, of whom 15 patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and 14 patients received adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy in 12 cases). The surgical procedure performed, but not other clinicopathological factors [recurrence site, P stage, tumor subtype, and disease-free interval (DFI)], differed between the NAC and adjuvant therapy groups. The DFI tended to be shorter in the NAC group than in the adjuvant therapy group. The pathological therapeutic effect grade after NAC was 1 in 12 patients and ≥2 in 3 patients. CONCLUSION More than 50% (15/29) of patients with recurrence who underwent BCS were given NAC, but most patients did not respond to it. Similarly, adjuvant chemotherapy may not have contributed to the eradication of residual tumor cells after BCS. To reduce breast cancer recurrence in patients undergoing BCS, treatment strategies, especially for patients who do not respond to NAC or adjuvant chemotherapy, need to be developed. Non-mechanical ventilation anesthesia may also affect the incidence of breast cancer recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryungsa Kim
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Ami Kawai
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Megumi Wakisaka
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Mika Shimoyama
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Naomi Yasuda
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Takanori Kin
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima City HospitalHiroshimaJapan
| | - Koji Arihiro
- Department of Anatomical PathologyHiroshima University HospitalHiroshimaJapan
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Zhang X, Cui H, Zhang W, Li Z, Gao J. Engineered tumor cell-derived vaccines against cancer: The art of combating poison with poison. Bioact Mater 2022; 22:491-517. [PMID: 36330160 PMCID: PMC9619151 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.10.016] [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: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor vaccination is a promising approach for tumor immunotherapy because it presents high specificity and few side effects. However, tumor vaccines that contain only a single tumor antigen can allow immune system evasion by tumor variants. Tumor antigens are complex and heterogeneous, and identifying a single antigen that is uniformly expressed by tumor cells is challenging. Whole tumor cells can produce comprehensive antigens that trigger extensive tumor-specific immune responses. Therefore, tumor cells are an ideal source of antigens for tumor vaccines. A better understanding of tumor cell-derived vaccines and their characteristics, along with the development of new technologies for antigen delivery, can help improve vaccine design. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in tumor cell-derived vaccines in cancer immunotherapy and highlight the different types of engineered approaches, mechanisms, administration methods, and future perspectives. We discuss tumor cell-derived vaccines, including whole tumor cell components, extracellular vesicles, and cell membrane-encapsulated nanoparticles. Tumor cell-derived vaccines contain multiple tumor antigens and can induce extensive and potent tumor immune responses. However, they should be engineered to overcome limitations such as insufficient immunogenicity and weak targeting. The genetic and chemical engineering of tumor cell-derived vaccines can greatly enhance their targeting, intelligence, and functionality, thereby realizing stronger tumor immunotherapy effects. Further advances in materials science, biomedicine, and oncology can facilitate the clinical translation of tumor cell-derived vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zhang
- Changhai Clinical Research Unit, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Hengqing Cui
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Wenjun Zhang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Zhaoshen Li
- Changhai Clinical Research Unit, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,Corresponding author. Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jie Gao
- Changhai Clinical Research Unit, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China,Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China,Corresponding author. Changhai Clinical Research Unit, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200444, China.
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A Gold Nanoparticle Bioconjugate Delivery System for Active Targeted Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer and Cancer Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194558. [PMID: 36230480 PMCID: PMC9559518 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), also called tumor-initiating cells, are a subpopulation of cancer cells believed to be the leading cause of cancer initiation, growth, metastasis, and recurrence. Presently there are no effective treatments targeted at eliminating CSCs. Hence, an urgent need to develop measures to target CSCs to eliminate potential recurrence and metastasis associated with CSCs. Cancer stem cells have inherent and unique features that differ from other cancer cells, which they leverage to resist conventional therapies. Targeting such features with photodynamic therapy (PDT) could be a promising treatment for drug-resistant cancer stem cells. Photodynamic therapy is a light-mediated non-invasive treatment modality. However, PDT alone is unable to eliminate cancer stem cells effectively, hence the need for a targeted approach. Gold nanoparticle bioconjugates with PDT could be a potential approach for targeted photodynamic therapy of cancer and CSCs. This approach has the potential for enhanced drug delivery, selective and specific attachment to target tumor cells/CSCs, as well as the ability to efficiently generate ROS. This review examines the impact of a smart gold nanoparticle bioconjugate coupled with a photosensitizer (PS) in promoting targeted PDT of cancer and CSC.
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Li H, Wang B, Qi B, Jiang G, Qin M, Yu M. Connexin32 regulates expansion of liver cancer stem cells via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Oncol Rep 2022; 48:166. [PMID: 35894130 PMCID: PMC9351005 DOI: 10.3892/or.2022.8381] [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: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs) are responsible for liver cancer recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance. Previous studies by the authors demonstrated that upregulated expression of connexin 32 (Cx32) reversed doxorubicin resistance and reduced invasion and metastasis of liver cancer cells. However, the role of Cx32 in expansion of LCSCs remains unclear. A total of 85 patients were enrolled in the present study and followed-up for 5 years. The expression of Cx32 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues and corresponding paracancerous tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Cx32 was silenced in HepG2 cells and overexpressed in HCCLM3 cells and the stemness of liver cells was examined by detecting the expression of LCSC markers (EpCAM, CD133, Nanog, Oct4, Sox9, c-Myc), sphere formation, and xenograft tumorigenesis. Finally, the effect of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway on Cx32-regulated LCSC expansion was investigated. Cx32 was downregulated in LCSCs and HCC tissues, and predicted poor prognosis in patients with HCC. Overexpression of Cx32 in HCCLM3 cells significantly inhibited LCSC expansion, tumorigenesis, and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway activity. By contrast, silencing of Cx32 in HepG2 cells upregulated expansion of LCSCs and PI3K/Akt pathway activity. Modulating the activity of the PI3K/Akt pathway by SC-79 and LY294002 in HepG2 and HCCLM3 cells, respectively, confirmed that Cx32 could affect the expansion of LCSCs through PI3K/Akt signaling. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that Cx32 regulated the expansion of LCSCs, and increased expression of Cx32 significantly inhibited the expansion of LCSCs, suggesting that Cx32 may be an optimal target for intervention of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233004, P.R. China
| | - Boying Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233004, P.R. China
| | - Benquan Qi
- Department of Emergency Internal Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233004, P.R. China
| | - Guojun Jiang
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233004, P.R. China
| | - Min Qin
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Meiling Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233004, P.R. China
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Telang NT. Stem Cell Models for Breast and Colon Cancer: Experimental Approach for Drug Discovery. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169223. [PMID: 36012489 PMCID: PMC9409032 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The progression of the early stages of female breast and colon cancer to metastatic disease represents a major cause of mortality in women. Multi-drug chemotherapy and/or pathway selective targeted therapy are notable for their off-target effects and are associated with spontaneous and/or acquired chemotherapy resistance and the emergence of premalignant chemo-resistant cancer-initiating stem cells. The stem cell populations are responsible for the evolution of therapy-resistant metastatic disease. These limitations emphasize an unmet need to develop reliable drug-resistant cancer stem cell models as novel experimental approaches for therapeutic alternatives in drug discovery platforms. Drug-resistant stem cell models for breast and colon cancer subtypes exhibit progressive growth in the presence of cytotoxic chemo-endocrine therapeutics. The resistant cells exhibit upregulated expressions of stem cell-selective cellular and molecular markers. Dietary phytochemicals, nutritional herbs and their constituent bioactive compounds have documented growth inhibitory efficacy for cancer stem cells. The mechanistic leads for the stem cell-targeted efficacy of naturally occurring agents validates the present experimental approaches for new drug discovery as therapeutic alternatives for therapy-resistant breast and colon cancer. The present review provides a systematic discussion of published evidence on (i) conventional/targeted therapy for breast and colon cancer, (ii) cellular and molecular characterization of stem cell models and (iii) validation of the stem cell models as an experimental approach for novel drug discovery of therapeutic alternatives for therapy-resistant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitin T Telang
- Cancer Prevention Research Program, Palindrome Liaisons Consultants, Montvale, NJ 07645-1559, USA
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Resveratrol Analog 4-Bromo-Resveratrol Inhibits Gastric Cancer Stemness through the SIRT3-c-Jun N-Terminal Kinase Signaling Pathway. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2021; 44:63-72. [PMID: 35723384 PMCID: PMC8929134 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is the treatment of choice for gastric cancer, but the currently available therapeutic drugs have limited efficacy. Studies have suggested that gastric cancer stem cells may play a key role in drug resistance in chemotherapy. Therefore, new agents that selectively target gastric cancer stem cells in gastric tumors are urgently required. Sirtuin-3 (SIRT3) is a deacetylase that regulates mitochondrial metabolic homeostasis to maintain stemness in glioma stem cells. Targeting the mitochondrial protein SIRT3 may provide a novel therapeutic option for gastric cancer treatment. However, the mechanism by which stemness is regulated through SIRT3 inhibition in gastric cancer remains unknown. We evaluated the stemness inhibition ability of the SIRT3 inhibitor 4′-bromo-resveratrol (4-BR), an analog of resveratrol in human gastric cancer cells. Our results suggested that 4-BR inhibited gastric cancer cell stemness through the SIRT3-c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathway and may aid in gastric cancer stem-cell–targeted therapy.
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