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Khorshid Sokhangouy S, Alizadeh F, Lotfi M, Sharif S, Ashouri A, Yoosefi Y, Bozorg Qomi S, Abbaszadegan MR. Recent advances in CRISPR-Cas systems for colorectal cancer research and therapeutics. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2024; 24:677-702. [PMID: 39132997 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2024.2388777] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Colon cancer, ranked as the fourth leading global cause of cancer death, exhibits a complex progression marked by genetic variations. Over the past decade, the utilization of diverse CRISPR systems has propelled accelerated research into colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment. AREAS COVERED CRISPR/Cas9, a key player in this research, identifies new oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes (TSGs), and drug-resistance genes. Additionally, it facilitates the construction of experimental models, conducts genome-wide library screening, and develops new therapeutic targets, especially for targeted knockout in vivo or molecular targeted drug delivery, contributing to personalized treatments and significantly enhancing the care of colon cancer patients. In this review, we provide insights into the mechanism of the CRISPR/Cas9 system, offering a comprehensive exploration of its applications in CRC, spanning screening, modeling, gene functions, diagnosis, and gene therapy. While acknowledging its transformative potential, the article highlights the challenges and limitations of CRISPR systems. EXPERT OPINION The application of CRISPR/Cas9 in CRC research provides a promising avenue for personalized treatments. Its potential for identifying key genes and enabling experimental models and genome-wide screening enhances patient care. This review underscores the significance of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology across basic research, diagnosis, and the treatment landscape of colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farzaneh Alizadeh
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Malihe Lotfi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Samaneh Sharif
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Atefeh Ashouri
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Yasamin Yoosefi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saeed Bozorg Qomi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Abbaszadegan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Shao L, Wu Y, Cao J, Zhong F, Yang X, Xing C. Activation of M2 macrophage autophagy by rapamycin increases the radiosensitivity of colorectal cancer xenografts. J Cancer Res Ther 2024; 20:695-705. [PMID: 38687942 DOI: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_215_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are intimately involved in cancer radiochemotherapy resistance. However, the mechanism by which macrophages affect radiosensitivity through autophagy remains unclear. The purpose of our study was to investigate how activating autophagy in type-II macrophages (M2) by using rapamycin (RAP) would affect the radiosensitivity of colorectal cancer (CRC) xenografts. MATERIALS AND METHODS A nude mouse CRC model was established by injecting LoVo CRC cells. After tumor formation, supernatant from M2 cells (autophagy-unactivated), autophagy-activated M2 cells, or autophagy-downregulated M2 cells was injected peritumorally. All tumor-bearing mice were irradiated with 8-Gy X-rays twice, and the radiosensitivity of CRC xenografts was analyzed in each group. RESULTS The mass, volume, and microvessel density (MVD) of tumors in the autophagy-unactivated M2 group significantly increased; however, supernatant from M2 cells that were autophagy-activated by rapamycin significantly decreased tumor weight, volume, and MVD compared with negative control. Combining bafilomycin A1 (BAF-A1) with RAP treatment restored the ability of the M2 supernatant to increase tumor mass, volume, and MVD. Immunohistochemical and Western blot results showed that compared with the negative control group, supernatant from M2 cells that were not activated by autophagy downregulated the expression of Livin and Survivin in tumor tissues; activation of M2 autophagy further downregulated the protein levels. CONCLUSIONS Therefore, autophagy-activated M2 supernatant can downregulate the expression of the antiapoptotic genes Livin and Survivin in CRC xenografts, improving the radiosensitivity of CRC by inducing apoptosis in combination with radiotherapy and inhibiting the growth of transplanted tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lening Shao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yongyou Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jianping Cao
- School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fengyun Zhong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chungen Xing
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Huang K, Yan C, Abdelghany L, Zhang X, Jingu K, Li TS. Nicaraven attenuates the acquired radioresistance of established tumors in mouse models via PARP inhibition. Mol Cell Biochem 2024:10.1007/s11010-024-04958-6. [PMID: 38466467 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-024-04958-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Nicaraven has been reported to inhibit the activity of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). In this study, we investigated the probable ability of nicaraven to attenuate cancer radioresistance during fractionated radiotherapy. Tumor models were established in C57BL/6 mice and BALB/c nude mice by subcutaneous injection of Lewis mouse lung carcinoma cancer cells and A549 human lung cancer cells, respectively. When the tumors had grown to approximately 100 mm3, we initiated fractionated radiotherapy. Nicaraven or saline was administered immediately after each irradiation exposure. Compared to saline treatment, nicaraven administration significantly induced gamma-H2AX foci formation and cell apoptosis in tumors at 1 or 3 days after an additional challenge exposure to 10 Gy and inhibited tumor growth during the short-term follow-up period, suggesting increased radiosensitivity of cancer cells. Moreover, the expression of PARP in tumor tissue was decreased by nicaraven administration. Our data suggest that nicaraven likely attenuates the acquired radioresistance of cancers through PARP inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Huang
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Chen Yan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Lina Abdelghany
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Keiichi Jingu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, 2-1 Seiryomachi, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-0872, Japan
| | - Tao-Sheng Li
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
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Vijayan Y, James S, Viswanathan A, Aparna JS, Bindu A, Namitha NN, Anantharaman D, Babu Lankadasari M, Harikumar KB. Targeting acid ceramidase enhances antitumor immune response in colorectal cancer. J Adv Res 2023:S2090-1232(23)00403-4. [PMID: 38142035 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.12.013] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acid ceramidase (hereafter referred as ASAH1) is an enzyme in sphingolipid metabolism that converts pro-survival ceramide into sphingosine. ASAH1 has been shown to be overexpressed in certain cancers. However, the role of ASAH1 in colorectal cancer still remain elusive. OBJECTIVE The present study is aimed to understand how ASAH1 regulates colorectal cancer (CRC) progression and resistance to checkpoint inhibitor therapy. METHODS Both pharmacological and genetic silencing of ASAH1 was used in the study. In vitro experiments were done on human and mouse CRC cell lines. The in vivo studies were conducted in NOD-SCID and BALB/c mice models. The combination of ASAH1 inhibitor and checkpoint inhibitor was tested using a syngeneic tumor model of CRC. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were done to understand the effect of ASAH1 silencing. RESULTS ASAH1 is overexpressed in human CRC cases, and silencing the expression resulted in the induction of immunological cell death (ICD) and mitochondrial stress. The ASAH1 inhibitor (LCL-521), either as monotherapy or in combination with an anti-PD-1 antibody, resulted in reduction of tumors and, through induction of type I and II interferon response, activation of M1 macrophages and T cells, leading to enhanced infiltration of cytotoxic T cells. Our findings supported that the combination of LCL-521 and ICIs, which enhances the antitumor responses, and ASAH1 can be a druggable target in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yadu Vijayan
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, India; Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Shirley James
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, India
| | - Arun Viswanathan
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, India; Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Jayasekharan S Aparna
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, India
| | - Anu Bindu
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, India
| | - Narayanan N Namitha
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, India
| | - Devasena Anantharaman
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, India
| | - Manendra Babu Lankadasari
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, India
| | - Kuzhuvelil B Harikumar
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, India.
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Kleynerman A, Rybova J, Faber ML, McKillop WM, Levade T, Medin JA. Acid Ceramidase Deficiency: Bridging Gaps between Clinical Presentation, Mouse Models, and Future Therapeutic Interventions. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020274. [PMID: 36830643 PMCID: PMC9953133 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Farber disease (FD) and spinal muscular atrophy with progressive myoclonic epilepsy (SMA-PME) are ultra-rare, autosomal-recessive, acid ceramidase (ACDase) deficiency disorders caused by ASAH1 gene mutations. Currently, 73 different mutations in the ASAH1 gene have been described in humans. These mutations lead to reduced ACDase activity and ceramide (Cer) accumulation in many tissues. Presenting as divergent clinical phenotypes, the symptoms of FD vary depending on central nervous system (CNS) involvement and severity. Classic signs of FD include, but are not limited to, a hoarse voice, distended joints, and lipogranulomas found subcutaneously and in other tissues. Patients with SMA-PME lack the most prominent clinical signs seen in FD. Instead, they demonstrate muscle weakness, tremors, and myoclonic epilepsy. Several ACDase-deficient mouse models have been developed to help elucidate the complex consequences of Cer accumulation. In this review, we compare clinical reports on FD patients and experimental descriptions of ACDase-deficient mouse models. We also discuss clinical presentations, potential therapeutic strategies, and future directions for the study of FD and SMA-PME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Kleynerman
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Jitka Rybova
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Mary L. Faber
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - William M. McKillop
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Thierry Levade
- Laboratoire de Biochimie Métabolique, CHU Toulouse, and INSERM U1037, Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Jeffrey A. Medin
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-414-955-4118
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Islam MM, Mirza SP. Versatile use of Carmofur: A comprehensive review of its chemistry and pharmacology. Drug Dev Res 2022; 83:1505-1518. [PMID: 36031762 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21984] [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: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Carmofur, 1-hexylcarbamoyl-5-fluorouracil (HCFU) is an antineoplastic drug, which has been in clinics in Japan since 1981 for the treatment of colorectal cancer. Subsequently, it was also introduced in China, Korea, and Finland. Besides colorectal cancer, it has also shown antitumor activity in other cancers such as breast, head and neck, pancreatic, gastrointestinal, and solid brain tumors. A prodrug of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), carmofur has shown better gastrointestinal stability and superior antiproliferative activity compared to its active counterpart 5-FU. Recently, carmofur has gained attention as an acid ceramidase inhibitor and as a potential lead compound against several noncancerous diseases such as coronavirus disease 2019, Krabbe disease, acute lung injury, Parkinson's disease, dementia, childhood ependymoma etc. Carmofur has also been reported to have antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. Nevertheless, no comprehensive review is available on this drug. Herein, we summarized the chemistry, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacology of carmofur based on the literature published between January 1976 and March 2022 as identified from PubMed and Google Scholar search engines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mohiminul Islam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Shama P Mirza
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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Yan Y, Cheong IH, Chen P, Li X, Wang X, Wang H. Patient-derived rectal cancer organoids—applications in basic and translational cancer research. Front Oncol 2022; 12:922430. [PMID: 35957894 PMCID: PMC9360321 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.922430] [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: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and among the leading causes of death in both men and women. Rectal cancer (RC) is particularly challenging compared with colon cancer as the treatment after diagnosis of RC is more complex on account of its narrow anatomical location in the pelvis adjacent to the urogenital organs. More and more existing studies have begun to refine the research on RC and colon cancer separately. Early diagnosis and multiple treatment strategies optimize outcomes for individual patients. However, the need for more accurate and precise models to facilitate RC research is underscored due to the heterogeneity of clinical response and morbidity interrelated with radical surgery. Organoids generated from biopsies of patients have developed as powerful models to recapitulate many aspects of their primary tissue, consisting of 3-D self-organizing structures, which shed great light on the applications in both biomedical and clinical research. As the preclinical research models for RC are usually confused with colon cancer, research on patient-derived RC organoid models enable personalized analysis of cancer pathobiology, organizational function, and tumor initiation and progression. In this review, we discuss the various applications of patient-derived RC organoids over the past two years in basic cancer biology and clinical translation, including sequencing analysis, drug screening, precision therapy practice, tumor microenvironment studies, and genetic engineering opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Yan
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Io Hong Cheong
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peizhan Chen
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianli Wang
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Wang
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Hui Wang,
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Preparation and biological evaluation of novel 5-Fluorouracil and Carmofur loaded polyethylene glycol / rosin ester nanocarriers as potential anticancer agents and ceramidase inhibitors. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.103456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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9
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Xu H, Jiao D, Liu A, Wu K. Tumor organoids: applications in cancer modeling and potentials in precision medicine. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:58. [PMID: 35551634 PMCID: PMC9103066 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01278-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a top-ranked life-threatening disease with intratumor heterogeneity. Tumor heterogeneity is associated with metastasis, relapse, and therapy resistance. These factors contribute to treatment failure and an unfavorable prognosis. Personalized tumor models faithfully capturing the tumor heterogeneity of individual patients are urgently needed for precision medicine. Advances in stem cell culture have given rise to powerful organoid technology for the generation of in vitro three-dimensional tissues that have been shown to more accurately recapitulate the structures, specific functions, molecular characteristics, genomic alterations, expression profiles, and tumor microenvironment of primary tumors. Tumoroids in vitro serve as an important component of the pipeline for the discovery of potential therapeutic targets and the identification of novel compounds. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in tumoroid cultures as an excellent tool for accurate cancer modeling. Additionally, vascularization and immune microenvironment modeling based on organoid technology will also be described. Furthermore, we will summarize the great potential of tumor organoids in predicting the therapeutic response, investigating resistance-related mechanisms, optimizing treatment strategies, and exploring potential therapies. In addition, the bottlenecks and challenges of current tumoroids will also be discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxiao Xu
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Dechao Jiao
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Aiguo Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Kongming Wu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China. .,Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Janneh AH, Ogretmen B. Targeting Sphingolipid Metabolism as a Therapeutic Strategy in Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2183. [PMID: 35565311 PMCID: PMC9104917 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids are bioactive molecules that have key roles in regulating tumor cell death and survival through, in part, the functional roles of ceramide accumulation and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) production, respectively. Mechanistic studies using cell lines, mouse models, or human tumors have revealed crucial roles of sphingolipid metabolic signaling in regulating tumor progression in response to anticancer therapy. Specifically, studies to understand ceramide and S1P production pathways with their downstream targets have provided novel therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. In this review, we present recent evidence of the critical roles of sphingolipids and their metabolic enzymes in regulating tumor progression via mechanisms involving cell death or survival. The roles of S1P in enabling tumor growth/metastasis and conferring cancer resistance to existing therapeutics are also highlighted. Additionally, using the publicly available transcriptomic database, we assess the prognostic values of key sphingolipid enzymes on the overall survival of patients with different malignancies and present studies that highlight their clinical implications for anticancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Besim Ogretmen
- Hollings Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
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Apoptosis-Associated Gene Expression Profiling Is One New Prognosis Risk Predictor of Human Rectal Cancer. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:4596810. [PMID: 35502302 PMCID: PMC9056267 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4596810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background. Prior research has revealed the predictive significance of a series of genetic markers in the prognosis of rectal cancer (RC), but the roles of apoptosis-associated genes in RC are rarely studied. Methods. The RNA-seq data as well as clinical data about patients with rectum adenocarcinoma (READ) were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project. Additionally, 87 apoptosis-associated genes were downloaded and acquired from Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database. Comprehensive bioinformatics analysis was carried out for deep exploration of the expression and prognostic significance of these genes. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed for the establishment of a risk scoring equation for the prognosis model and construction of a survival prognosis model. ROC curves were drawn for evaluating the accuracy of the model. A real-time quantitative PCR assay was conducted for quantification of apoptosis-associated proteins related to prognosis. Results. Eight genes were identified as hub genes associated with the prognosis of PFS. A risk model of prognosis prediction based on four gene signatures (CYCS, IKBKB, NFKB1, and TRADD) was constructed. According to further analysis of this model, the high-risk group experienced worse overall survival than the other. The prognosis model demonstrated a favorable predictive ability, with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) of 0.720, 0.641, and 0.677 in forecasting the 1-, 2-, and 3-year prognosis, respectively. In addition, CYCS and NFKB1 presented low expression, while IKBKB and TRADD presented high expression in TCGA and clinical tumor samples. Conclusions. A four-gene signature risk model for prognosis forecasting of RC has been constructed, which possesses favorable predictive ability, which offers ideas and breakthrough points to the apoptosis-associated development of RC.
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Ceramide Metabolism Enzymes-Therapeutic Targets against Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57070729. [PMID: 34357010 PMCID: PMC8303233 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57070729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sphingolipids are both structural molecules that are essential for cell architecture and second messengers that are involved in numerous cell functions. Ceramide is the central hub of sphingolipid metabolism. In addition to being the precursor of complex sphingolipids, ceramides induce cell cycle arrest and promote cell death and inflammation. At least some of the enzymes involved in the regulation of sphingolipid metabolism are altered in carcinogenesis, and some are targets for anticancer drugs. A number of scientific reports have shown how alterations in sphingolipid pools can affect cell proliferation, survival and migration. Determination of sphingolipid levels and the regulation of the enzymes that are implicated in their metabolism is a key factor for developing novel therapeutic strategies or improving conventional therapies. The present review highlights the importance of bioactive sphingolipids and their regulatory enzymes as targets for therapeutic interventions with especial emphasis in carcinogenesis and cancer dissemination.
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Quinville BM, Deschenes NM, Ryckman AE, Walia JS. A Comprehensive Review: Sphingolipid Metabolism and Implications of Disruption in Sphingolipid Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115793. [PMID: 34071409 PMCID: PMC8198874 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids are a specialized group of lipids essential to the composition of the plasma membrane of many cell types; however, they are primarily localized within the nervous system. The amphipathic properties of sphingolipids enable their participation in a variety of intricate metabolic pathways. Sphingoid bases are the building blocks for all sphingolipid derivatives, comprising a complex class of lipids. The biosynthesis and catabolism of these lipids play an integral role in small- and large-scale body functions, including participation in membrane domains and signalling; cell proliferation, death, migration, and invasiveness; inflammation; and central nervous system development. Recently, sphingolipids have become the focus of several fields of research in the medical and biological sciences, as these bioactive lipids have been identified as potent signalling and messenger molecules. Sphingolipids are now being exploited as therapeutic targets for several pathologies. Here we present a comprehensive review of the structure and metabolism of sphingolipids and their many functional roles within the cell. In addition, we highlight the role of sphingolipids in several pathologies, including inflammatory disease, cystic fibrosis, cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and lysosomal storage disorders.
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He L, Chang H, Qi Y, Zhang B, Shao Q. ceRNA Networks: The Backbone Role in Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy Resistance/Sensitivity of Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2021; 20:15330338211062313. [PMID: 34908512 PMCID: PMC8689620 DOI: 10.1177/15330338211062313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 40% of rectal cancers during initial diagnosis are identified as locally advanced rectal cancers (LARCs), for which the standardized treatment scenario is total mesorectal excision following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT). nCRT can lead to discernible reductions in local relapse rate and distant metastasis rate in LARC patients, in whom previously inoperable tumors may potentially be surgically removed. However, only 4% to 20% cases can attain pathological complete response, and the remaining patients who are unresponsive to nCRT have to suffer from the side effects plus toxicities and may encounter poor survival outcomes due to the late surgical intervention. As such, employing potential biomarkers to differentiate responders from nonresponders before nCRT implementation appears to be the overarching goal. Well-defined competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks include long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)-microRNA (miRNA)-mRNA and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks. As ceRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs sponge miRNAs to indirectly suppress miRNAs downstream of oncogenic mRNAs or tumor-suppressive mRNAs. The abnormal expression of mRNAs regulates the nCRT-induced DNA damage repair process through pluralistic carcinogenic signaling pathways, thereby bringing about alterations in the nCRT resistance/sensitivity of tumors. Moreover, many molecular mechanisms relevant to cell proliferation, metastasis, or apoptosis of cancers (eg, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and caspase-9-caspase-3 pathway) are influenced by ceRNA networks. Herein, we reviewed a large group of abnormally expressed mRNAs and noncoding RNAs that are associated with nCRT resistance/sensitivity in LARC patients and ultimately pinpointed the backbone role of ceRNA networks in the molecular mechanisms of nCRT resistance/sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin He
- Department of Radiotherapy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, SAR, China
| | - Hao Chang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yuhong Qi
- Department of Radiotherapy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Bing Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Qiuju Shao
- Department of Radiotherapy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
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