1
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Farhangnia P, Ghods R, Falak R, Zarnani AH, Delbandi AA. Identification of placenta-specific protein 1 (PLAC-1) expression on human PC-3 cell line-derived prostate cancer stem cells compared to the tumor parental cells. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:251. [PMID: 38943028 PMCID: PMC11213845 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01121-x] [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] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Placenta-specific protein 1 (PLAC-1) is a gene primarily expressed in the placenta and the testis. Interestingly, it is also found to be expressed in many solid tumors, and it is involved in malignant cell features. However, no evidence has been reported regarding the relationship between PLAC-1 and cancer stem cells (CSCs). In the current research, we explored the expression of the PLAC-1 molecule in prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs) derived from the human PC-3 cell line. The enrichment of PCSCs was achieved using a three-dimensional cell culture technique known as the sphere-formation assay. To confirm the identity of PCSCs, we examined the expression of genes associated with stemness and pluripotency, such as SOX2, OCT4, Nanog, C-Myc, and KLF-4, as well as stem cell differentiation molecules like CD44 and CD133. These evaluations were conducted in both the PCSCs and the original tumor cells (parental cells) using real-time PCR and flow cytometry. Subsequently, we assessed the expression of the PLAC-1 molecule in both enriched cells and parental tumor cells at the gene and protein levels using the same techniques. The tumor cells from the PC-3 cell line formed spheroids with CSC characteristics in a non-adherent medium. The expression of SOX2, OCT4, Nanog, and C-Myc genes (p < 0.01), and the molecules CD44 and CD133 (p < 0.05) were significantly elevated in PCSCs compared to the parental cells. The expression of the PLAC-1 molecule in PCSCs showed a significant increase compared to the parental cells at both gene (p < 0.01) and protein (p < 0.001) levels. In conclusion, it was indicated for the first time that PLAC-1 is up-regulated in PCSCs derived from human PC-3 cell line. This study may propose PLAC-1 as a potential target in targeted therapies, which should be confirmed through further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooya Farhangnia
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Ghods
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Falak
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir-Hassan Zarnani
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Delbandi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Miao Y, Wang P, Huang J, Qi X, Liang Y, Zhao W, Wang H, Lyu J, Zhu H. Metabolomics, Transcriptome and Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Analysis of the Metabolic Heterogeneity between Oral Cancer Stem Cells and Differentiated Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:237. [PMID: 38254728 PMCID: PMC10813553 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020237] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the distinct metabolic characteristics of cancer stem cells (CSC) may allow us to better cope with the clinical challenges associated with them. In this study, OSCC cell lines (CAL27 and HSC3) and multicellular tumor spheroid (MCTS) models were used to generate CSC-like cells. Quasi-targeted metabolomics and RNA sequencing were used to explore altered metabolites and metabolism-related genes. Pathview was used to display the metabolites and transcriptome data in a KEGG pathway. The single-cell RNA sequencing data of six patients with oral cancer were analyzed to characterize in vivo CSC metabolism. The results showed that 19 metabolites (phosphoethanolamine, carbamoylphosphate, etc.) were upregulated and 109 metabolites (2-aminooctanoic acid, 7-ketocholesterol, etc.) were downregulated in both MCTS cells. Integration pathway analysis revealed altered activity in energy production (glycolysis, citric cycle, fatty acid oxidation), macromolecular synthesis (purine/pyrimidine metabolism, glycerophospholipids metabolism) and redox control (glutathione metabolism). Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis confirmed altered glycolysis, glutathione and glycerophospholipid metabolism in in vivo CSC. We concluded that CSCs are metabolically inactive compared with differentiated cancer cells. Thus, oral CSCs may resist current metabolic-related drugs. Our result may be helpful in developing better therapeutic strategies against CSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwen Miao
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310020, China;
| | - Pan Wang
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (P.W.); (H.Z.)
| | - Jinyan Huang
- Biomedical Big Data Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Xin Qi
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (P.W.); (H.Z.)
| | - Yingjiqiong Liang
- Biomedical Big Data Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Wenquan Zhao
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (P.W.); (H.Z.)
| | - Huiming Wang
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310020, China;
| | - Jiong Lyu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (P.W.); (H.Z.)
| | - Huiyong Zhu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (P.W.); (H.Z.)
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Olmedo I, Martínez D, Carrasco-Rojas J, Jara JA. Mitochondria in oral cancer stem cells: Unraveling the potential drug targets for new and old drugs. Life Sci 2023; 331:122065. [PMID: 37659591 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Head and neck cancer is a major health problem worldwide, with most cases arising in the oral cavity. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common type of oral cancer, accounting for over 90% of all cases. Compared to other types of cancer, OSCC, has the worse prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate of 50%. Additionally, OSCC is characterized by a high rate of resistance to chemotherapy treatment, which may be partly explained by the presence of cancer stem cells (CSC) subpopulation. CSC can adapt to harmful environmental condition and are highly resistant to both chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, thus contributing to tumor relapse. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of mitochondria in oral CSC as a potential target for oral cancer treatment. For this purpose, we reviewed some fundamental aspects of the most validated protein markers of stemness, autophagy, the mitochondrial function and energy metabolism in oral CSC. Moreover, a discussion will be made on why energy metabolism, especially oxidative phosphorylation in CSC, may offer such a diverse source of original pharmacological target for new drugs. Finally, we will describe some drugs able to disturb mitochondrial function, with emphasis on those aimed to interrupt the electron transport chain function, as novel therapeutic strategies in multidrug-resistant oral CSC. The reutilization of old drugs approved for clinical use as new antineoplastics, in cancer treatment, is also matter of revision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivonne Olmedo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniela Martínez
- Institute for Research in Dental Sciences (ICOD), Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Javiera Carrasco-Rojas
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Clínica Alemana-Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - José A Jara
- Institute for Research in Dental Sciences (ICOD), Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Department of Toxicological and Pharmacological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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Head and neck cancer patient-derived tumouroid cultures: opportunities and challenges. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1807-1818. [PMID: 36765173 PMCID: PMC10147637 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02167-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNC) are the seventh most prevalent cancer type globally. Despite their common categorisation, HNCs are a heterogeneous group of malignancies arising in various anatomical sites within the head and neck region. These cancers exhibit different clinical and biological manifestations, and this heterogeneity also contributes to the high rates of treatment failure and mortality. To evaluate patients who will respond to a particular treatment, there is a need to develop in vitro model systems that replicate in vivo tumour status. Among the methods developed, patient-derived cancer organoids, also known as tumouroids, recapitulate in vivo tumour characteristics including tumour architecture. Tumouroids have been used for general disease modelling and genetic instability studies in pan-cancer research. However, a limited number of studies have thus far been conducted using tumouroid-based drug screening. Studies have concluded that tumouroids can play an essential role in bringing precision medicine for highly heterogenous cancer types such as HNC.
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Greier MDC, Runge A, Dudas J, Carpentari L, Schartinger VH, Randhawa A, Mayr M, Petersson M, Riechelmann H. Optimizing culturing conditions in patient derived 3D primary slice cultures of head and neck cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1145817. [PMID: 37064104 PMCID: PMC10101142 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1145817] [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: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Three-dimensional primary slice cultures (SC) of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNC) are realistic preclinical models. Until now, preserving structure and viability ex vivo for several days has been difficult. The aim of this study was to optimize cultivation conditions for HNC SC and analyze the added effects of platelet rich fibrin (PRF) on these conditions. Methods SC were prepared from the tumor biopsies of 9 HNC patients. Cultures were incubated for 1 and 7 days in three different media- Keratinocyte serum-free medium (SFM), RPMI-1640i, and 1:1 mix of both, with and without addition of PRF. After culturing, SC were fixated, embedded, and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) and cleaved caspase-3. In addition, triple immune fluorescence staining for cytokeratin, vimentin and CD45 was performed. Outcome parameters were cell count and cell density, viability and apoptosis, SC total area and proportions of keratinocytes, mesenchymal and immune cells. The effects of culture time, medium, and addition of PRF were calculated in an SPSS generalized linear model and using the Wald Chi-Squared test. Results Ninety-four slice cultures were analyzed. Viability remained stable for 7 days in culture. After addition of PRF, cell viability increased (p=0.05). SC total area decreased (0.44 ± 0.04 mm2 on day 1 (95% CI: 0.35 to 0.56) to 0.29 ± 0.03 mm2 on day 7 (95% CI: 0.22 to 0.36), but cell density and cell proportions remained stable. Differences in cultivation media had no significant impact on outcome parameters. Conclusion HNC SC can be preserved for up to 7 days using the tested cultivation media. Cell viability was best preserved with addition of PRF. HNC SC are a versatile experimental tool to study physiology and drug actions. Autologous PRF can help simulate realistic conditions in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria do Carmo Greier
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Annette Runge
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- *Correspondence: Annette Runge,
| | - Jozsef Dudas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Lukas Carpentari
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Volker Hans Schartinger
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Avneet Randhawa
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | | | | | - Herbert Riechelmann
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Seliger B, Al-Samadi A, Yang B, Salo T, Wickenhauser C. In vitro models as tools for screening treatment options of head and neck cancer. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:971726. [PMID: 36160162 PMCID: PMC9489836 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.971726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Various in vitro models using primary and established 2- and 3-dimensional cultures, multicellular tumor spheroids, standardized tumor slice cultures, tumor organoids, and microfluidic systems obtained from tumor lesions/biopsies of head and neck cancer (HNC) have been employed for exploring and monitoring treatment options. All of these in vitro models are to a different degree able to capture the diversity of tumors, recapitulate the disease genetically, histologically, and functionally and retain their tumorigenic potential upon xenotransplantation. The models were used for the characterization of the malignant features of the tumors and for in vitro screens of drugs approved for the treatment of HNC, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy as well as recently developed targeted therapies and immunotherapies, or for novel treatments not yet licensed for these tumor entities. The implementation of the best suitable model will enlarge our knowledge of the oncogenic properties of HNC, expand the drug repertoire and help to develop individually tailored treatment strategies resulting in the translation of these findings into the clinic. This review summarizes the different approaches using preclinical in vitro systems with their advantages and disadvantages and their implementation as preclinical platforms to predict disease course, evaluate biomarkers and test therapy efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Seliger
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Barbara Seliger,
| | - Ahmed Al-Samadi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, Clinicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Immunology Research Program, Research Program Unit, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Bo Yang
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Tuula Salo
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, Clinicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Immunology Research Program, Research Program Unit, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Cancer Research and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
- Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Claudia Wickenhauser
- Institute of Pathology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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7
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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: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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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8
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Moya-Garcia CR, Okuyama H, Sadeghi N, Li J, Tabrizian M, Li-Jessen NYK. In vitro models for head and neck cancer: Current status and future perspective. Front Oncol 2022; 12:960340. [PMID: 35992863 PMCID: PMC9381731 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.960340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The 5-year overall survival rate remains approximately 50% for head and neck (H&N) cancer patients, even though new cancer drugs have been approved for clinical use since 2016. Cancer drug studies are now moving toward the use of three-dimensional culture models for better emulating the unique tumor microenvironment (TME) and better predicting in vivo response to cancer treatments. Distinctive TME features, such as tumor geometry, heterogenous cellularity, and hypoxic cues, notably affect tissue aggressiveness and drug resistance. However, these features have not been fully incorporated into in vitro H&N cancer models. This review paper aims to provide a scholarly assessment of the designs, contributions, and limitations of in vitro models in H&N cancer drug research. We first review the TME features of H&N cancer that are most relevant to in vitro drug evaluation. We then evaluate a selection of advanced culture models, namely, spheroids, organotypic models, and microfluidic chips, in their applications for H&N cancer drug research. Lastly, we propose future opportunities of in vitro H&N cancer research in the prospects of high-throughput drug screening and patient-specific drug evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hideaki Okuyama
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nader Sadeghi
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Center, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jianyu Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Maryam Tabrizian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Maryam Tabrizian, ; Nicole Y. K. Li-Jessen,
| | - Nicole Y. K. Li-Jessen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Center, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Maryam Tabrizian, ; Nicole Y. K. Li-Jessen,
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Shin YY, Seo Y, Oh SJ, Ahn JS, Song MH, Kang MJ, Oh JM, Lee D, Kim YH, Sung ES, Kim HS. Melatonin and verteporfin synergistically suppress the growth and stemness of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma through the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics. J Pineal Res 2022; 72:e12779. [PMID: 34826168 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has continued to rise for decades. However, drug resistance to chemotherapeutics and relapse, mediated by cancer stem cells (CSCs), remains a significant impediment in clinical oncology to achieve successful treatment. Therefore, we focused on analyzing CSCs in HNSCC and demonstrated the effect of melatonin (Mel) and verteporfin (VP) on SCC-25 cells. HNSCC CSCs were enriched in the reactive oxygen species-low state and in sphere-forming cultures. Combination treatment with Mel and VP decreased HNSCC viability and increased apoptosis without causing significant damage to normal cells. Sphere-forming ability and stem cell population were reduced by co-treatment with Mel and VP, while mitochondrial ROS level was increased by the treatment. Furthermore, the expression of mitophagy markers, parkin and PINK1, was significantly decreased in the co-treated cells. Mel and VP induced mitochondrial depolarization and inhibited mitochondrial function. Parkin/TOM20 was localized near the nucleus and formed clusters of mitochondria in the cells after treatment. Moreover, Mel and VP downregulated the expression of markers involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis. The migration capacity of cells was significantly decreased by co-treatment with Mel and VP, accompanied by the down-regulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression. Taken together, these results indicate that co-treatment with Mel and VP induces mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in the apoptosis of CSCs. Mel and VP could thus be further investigated as potential therapies for HNSCC through their action on CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Young Shin
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Department of Life Science in Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Education and Research Team for Life Science on Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Yoojin Seo
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Su-Jeong Oh
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Department of Life Science in Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Education and Research Team for Life Science on Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Ji-Su Ahn
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Department of Life Science in Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Education and Research Team for Life Science on Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Min-Hye Song
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Min-Jung Kang
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Jung-Min Oh
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Dongjun Lee
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Yun Hak Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Eui-Suk Sung
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine and Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Hyung-Sik Kim
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Department of Life Science in Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Education and Research Team for Life Science on Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
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Cirillo N, Wu C, Prime SS. Heterogeneity of Cancer Stem Cells in Tumorigenesis, Metastasis, and Resistance to Antineoplastic Treatment of Head and Neck Tumours. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113068. [PMID: 34831291 PMCID: PMC8619944 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of a small subset of cancer cells with self-renewal properties that can give rise to phenotypically diverse tumour populations has shifted our understanding of cancer biology. Targeting cancer stem cells (CSCs) is becoming a promising therapeutic strategy in various malignancies, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Diverse sub-populations of head and neck cancer stem cells (HNCSCs) have been identified previously using CSC specific markers, the most common being CD44, Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1), and CD133, or by side population assays. Interestingly, distinct HNCSC subsets play different roles in the generation and progression of tumours. This article aims to review the evidence for a role of specific CSCs in HNSCC tumorigenesis, invasion, and metastasis, together with resistance to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Cirillo
- Melbourne Dental School, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Carmen Wu
- Melbourne Dental School, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia;
| | - Stephen S. Prime
- Centre for Immunology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK;
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11
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Jawa Y, Yadav P, Gupta S, Mathan SV, Pandey J, Saxena AK, Kateriya S, Tiku AB, Mondal N, Bhattacharya J, Ahmad S, Chaturvedi R, Tyagi RK, Tandon V, Singh RP. Current Insights and Advancements in Head and Neck Cancer: Emerging Biomarkers and Therapeutics with Cues from Single Cell and 3D Model Omics Profiling. Front Oncol 2021; 11:676948. [PMID: 34490084 PMCID: PMC8418074 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.676948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC) is among the ten leading malignancies worldwide, with India solely contributing one-third of global oral cancer cases. The current focus of all cutting-edge strategies against this global malignancy are directed towards the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment that obstructs most treatment blueprints. Subsequent to the portrayal of established information, the review details the application of single cell technology, organoids and spheroid technology in relevance to head and neck cancer and the tumor microenvironment acknowledging the resistance pattern of the heterogeneous cell population in HNC. Bioinformatic tools are used for study of differentially expressed genes and further omics data analysis. However, these tools have several challenges and limitations when analyzing single-cell gene expression data that are discussed briefly. The review further examines the omics of HNC, through comprehensive analyses of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and epigenomics profiles. Patterns of alterations vary between patients, thus heterogeneity and molecular alterations between patients have driven the clinical significance of molecular targeted therapies. The analyses of potential molecular targets in HNC are discussed with connotation to the alteration of key pathways in HNC followed by a comprehensive study of protein kinases as novel drug targets including its ATPase and additional binding pockets, non-catalytic domains and single residues. We herein review, the therapeutic agents targeting the potential biomarkers in light of new molecular targeted therapies. In the final analysis, this review suggests that the development of improved target-specific personalized therapies can combat HNC's global plight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashika Jawa
- Special Center for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Pooja Yadav
- Special Center for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Shruti Gupta
- School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Sivapar V. Mathan
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Jyoti Pandey
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Ajay K. Saxena
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Suneel Kateriya
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashu B. Tiku
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Neelima Mondal
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Shandar Ahmad
- School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rupesh Chaturvedi
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rakesh K. Tyagi
- Special Center for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Vibha Tandon
- Special Center for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rana P. Singh
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
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Affolter A, Lammert A, Kern J, Scherl C, Rotter N. Precision Medicine Gains Momentum: Novel 3D Models and Stem Cell-Based Approaches in Head and Neck Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:666515. [PMID: 34307351 PMCID: PMC8296983 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.666515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the current progress in the development of new concepts of precision medicine for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), in particular targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibition (CPI), overall survival rates have not improved during the last decades. This is, on the one hand, caused by the fact that a significant number of patients presents with late stage disease at the time of diagnosis, on the other hand HNSCC frequently develop therapeutic resistance. Distinct intratumoral and intertumoral heterogeneity is one of the strongest features in HNSCC and has hindered both the identification of specific biomarkers and the establishment of targeted therapies for this disease so far. To date, there is a paucity of reliable preclinical models, particularly those that can predict responses to immune CPI, as these models require an intact tumor microenvironment (TME). The "ideal" preclinical cancer model is supposed to take both the TME as well as tumor heterogeneity into account. Although HNSCC patients are frequently studied in clinical trials, there is a lack of reliable prognostic biomarkers allowing a better stratification of individuals who might benefit from new concepts of targeted or immunotherapeutic strategies. Emerging evidence indicates that cancer stem cells (CSCs) are highly tumorigenic. Through the process of stemness, epithelial cells acquire an invasive phenotype contributing to metastasis and recurrence. Specific markers for CSC such as CD133 and CD44 expression and ALDH activity help to identify CSC in HNSCC. For the majority of patients, allocation of treatment regimens is simply based on histological diagnosis and on tumor location and disease staging (clinical risk assessments) rather than on specific or individual tumor biology. Hence there is an urgent need for tools to stratify HNSCC patients and pave the way for personalized therapeutic options. This work reviews the current literature on novel approaches in implementing three-dimensional (3D) HNSCC in vitro and in vivo tumor models in the clinical daily routine. Stem-cell based assays will be particularly discussed. Those models are highly anticipated to serve as a preclinical prediction platform for the evaluation of stable biomarkers and for therapeutic efficacy testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Affolter
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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Park Y, Huh KM, Kang SW. Applications of Biomaterials in 3D Cell Culture and Contributions of 3D Cell Culture to Drug Development and Basic Biomedical Research. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2491. [PMID: 33801273 PMCID: PMC7958286 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of evaluating the efficacy and toxicity of drugs is important in the production of new drugs to treat diseases. Testing in humans is the most accurate method, but there are technical and ethical limitations. To overcome these limitations, various models have been developed in which responses to various external stimuli can be observed to help guide future trials. In particular, three-dimensional (3D) cell culture has a great advantage in simulating the physical and biological functions of tissues in the human body. This article reviews the biomaterials currently used to improve cellular functions in 3D culture and the contributions of 3D culture to cancer research, stem cell culture and drug and toxicity screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Park
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering & Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea;
- Predictive Model Research Center, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Korea
| | - Kang Moo Huh
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering & Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea;
| | - Sun-Woong Kang
- Predictive Model Research Center, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Korea
- Human and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34114, Korea
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14
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Advanced Multi-Dimensional Cellular Models as Emerging Reality to Reproduce In Vitro the Human Body Complexity. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031195. [PMID: 33530487 PMCID: PMC7865724 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A hot topic in biomedical science is the implementation of more predictive in vitro models of human tissues to significantly improve the knowledge of physiological or pathological process, drugs discovery and screening. Bidimensional (2D) culture systems still represent good high-throughput options for basic research. Unfortunately, these systems are not able to recapitulate the in vivo three-dimensional (3D) environment of native tissues, resulting in a poor in vitro–in vivo translation. In addition, intra-species differences limited the use of animal data for predicting human responses, increasing in vivo preclinical failures and ethical concerns. Dealing with these challenges, in vitro 3D technological approaches were recently bioengineered as promising platforms able to closely capture the complexity of in vivo normal/pathological tissues. Potentially, such systems could resemble tissue-specific extracellular matrix (ECM), cell–cell and cell–ECM interactions and specific cell biological responses to mechanical and physical/chemical properties of the matrix. In this context, this review presents the state of the art of the most advanced progresses of the last years. A special attention to the emerging technologies for the development of human 3D disease-relevant and physiological models, varying from cell self-assembly (i.e., multicellular spheroids and organoids) to the use of biomaterials and microfluidic devices has been given.
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