1
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Zhu C, Wang C, Wang X, Dong S, Xu Q, Zheng J. PABPC1 silencing inhibits pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and EMT, and induces apoptosis via PI3K/AKT pathway. Cytotechnology 2024; 76:351-361. [PMID: 38736728 PMCID: PMC11082123 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-024-00626-1] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is difficult to manage owing to the challenges involved in its treatment and nursing. This study aimed to clarify the roles and mechanisms of action of Poly (A)-binding protein cytoplasmic 1 (PABPC1) on pancreatic cancer. The expression of PABPC1 in pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines was detected using RT-qPCR and western blotting. The effects of PABPC1 on proliferation, apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in pancreatic cancer cells were further investigated using MTT assays, flow cytometry, and western blotting. The expression of PABPC1 was significantly upregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells, whereas PABPC1 downregulation inhibited pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, decreased the expression of EMT-associated proteins, and exerted a regulatory effect by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. In addition, the findings indicated that PABPC1 over-expression significantly promoted pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, decreased the expression of E-cadherin, enhanced N-cadherin expression, and activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. PABPC1 silencing significantly inhibited proliferation and EMT and induced apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. These findings provide novel insights into the role of PABPC1 in the development of pancreatic cancer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10616-024-00626-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changren Zhu
- Pathology Department, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, 225001 China
| | - Cuimei Wang
- Pathology Department, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, 225001 China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, 225001 China
| | - Shuangshuang Dong
- Pathology Department, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, 225001 China
| | - Qing Xu
- Pathology Department, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou, 225001 China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Daytime Surgical Ward, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital of Jiangsu Province, No. 98 Nantong West Road, Yangzhou, 225001 China
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2
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Martínez-Galán J, Jiménez-Luna C, Rodriguez I, Maza E, García-Collado C, Rodríguez-Fernández A, López-Hidalgo JL, Caba O. Metastatic pancreatic and lung cancer patient in complete remission following immunotherapy: A case report and review of literature. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:2233-2240. [PMID: 38764840 PMCID: PMC11099454 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i5.2233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal malignancy with dispiriting survival data. Immunotherapy is a promising approach to many cancer types, but achieves poor outcomes in advanced PDAC due to its immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. We describe a case of metastatic PDAC effectively treated with pembrolizumab. CASE SUMMARY We report the case of a 67-year-old woman with unresectable locally advanced PDAC, treated with gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel followed by radiotherapy plus capecitabine. At nine months, pancreatic tumor progression was observed at the level of the hepatic hilum with the appearance of a new pulmonary nodule suggestive of a second primary, confirmed by left lung biopsy. Systemic immunotherapy was then initiated with pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor targeting programmed cell death protein-1 that covers the two tumor types. The patient showed a complete metabolic response that was maintained throughout the treatment. The patient continues to be disease-free at 5.6 years since the start of immunotherapy. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the administration of pembrolizumab after chemoradiotherapy has a beneficial effect in patients with metastatic PDAC. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a patient with metastatic PDAC and metastatic lung cancer showing such a long-lasting complete response after pembrolizumab treatment without curative surgery. Further studies are required to determine biomarkers that identify PDAC patients most likely to benefit from this immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquina Martínez-Galán
- Department of Medical Oncology, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada 18014, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria, Ibs. Granada, Granada 18012, Spain
| | - Cristina Jiménez-Luna
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria, Ibs. Granada, Granada 18012, Spain
- Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada 18016, Spain
| | - Isabel Rodriguez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada 18014, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria, Ibs. Granada, Granada 18012, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Maza
- Department of Medical Oncology, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada 18014, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria, Ibs. Granada, Granada 18012, Spain
| | - Carlos García-Collado
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria, Ibs. Granada, Granada 18012, Spain
- Pharmacogenetics Unit, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada 18014, Spain
| | - Antonio Rodríguez-Fernández
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria, Ibs. Granada, Granada 18012, Spain
- Department of Medicina Nuclear, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada 18014, Spain
| | - Javier Luis López-Hidalgo
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria, Ibs. Granada, Granada 18012, Spain
- Department of Anatomía Patológica, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada 18014, Spain
| | - Octavio Caba
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria, Ibs. Granada, Granada 18012, Spain
- Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada 18016, Spain
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3
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Wu GH, He C, Che G, Zhou Z, Chen BY, Wu HM, Chen JF, Zhu WP, Yang Y, Zhou Z, Teng LS, Wang HY. The role of FERMT2 in the tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy in pan-cancer using comprehensive single-cell and bulk sequencing. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30505. [PMID: 38726194 PMCID: PMC11079299 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30505] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
FERMT2 has been identified as a participant in integrin-linked kinase signaling pathways, influencing epithelial-mesenchymal transition and thereby affecting tumor initiation, progression, and invasion. While the character of FERMT2 in the tumor microenvironment (TME) as well as its implications for immunotherapy remain unclear. Thus, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to assess the prognostic significance of FERMT2 using Kaplan-Meier analysis. In addition, we employed enrichment analysis to uncover potential underlying molecular mechanisms. Using "Immunedeconv" package, we evaluated the immune characteristics of FERMT2 within TME. Furthermore, we determined the expression levels of FERMT2 in various cell types within TME, based on single-cell sequencing data. To confirm the co-expression of FERMT2 and markers of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), we performed multiplex immunofluorescence staining on tissue paraffin sections across various cancer types. Our analysis disclosed a significant correlation between elevated FERMT2 expression and unfavorable prognosis in specific cancer types. Furthermore, we identified a strong correlation between FERMT2 expression and diverse immune-related factors, including immune checkpoint molecules, immune cell infiltration, microsatellite instability (MSI), and tumor mutational burden (TMB). Additionally, there was a significant correlation between FERMT2 expression and immune-related pathways, particularly those associated with activating, migrating, and promoting the growth of fibroblasts in diverse cancer types. Interestingly, we observed consistent co-expression of FERMT2 in both malignant tumor cells and stromal cells, particularly within CAFs. Notably, our findings also indicated that FERMT2, in particular, exhibited elevated expression levels within tumor tissues and co-expressed with α-SMA in CAFs based on the multiplex immunofluorescence staining results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-hao Wu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chao He
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gang Che
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zheng Zhou
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bi-ying Chen
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hai-ming Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Yiwu Central Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Jian-feng Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Yiwu Central Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Wei-pu Zhu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhan Zhou
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li-song Teng
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hai-yong Wang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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4
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Kula A, Koszewska D, Kot A, Dawidowicz M, Mielcarska S, Waniczek D, Świętochowska E. The Importance of HHLA2 in Solid Tumors-A Review of the Literature. Cells 2024; 13:794. [PMID: 38786018 PMCID: PMC11119147 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy is a rapidly developing field of medicine that aims to use the host's immune mechanisms to inhibit and eliminate cancer cells. Antibodies targeting CTLA-4, PD-1, and its ligand PD-L1 are used in various cancer therapies. However, the most thoroughly researched pathway targeting PD-1/PD-L1 has many limitations, and multiple malignancies resist its effects. Human endogenous retrovirus-H Long repeat-associating 2 (HHLA2, known as B7H5/B7H7/B7y) is the youngest known molecule from the B7 family. HHLA2/TMIGD2/KIRD3DL3 is one of the critical pathways in modulating the immune response. Recent studies have demonstrated that HHLA2 has a double effect in modulating the immune system. The connection of HHLA2 with TMIGD2 induces T cell growth and cytokine production via an AKT-dependent signaling cascade. On the other hand, the binding of HHLA2 and KIR3DL3 leads to the inhibition of T cells and mediates tumor resistance against NK cells. This review aimed to summarize novel information about HHLA2, focusing on immunological mechanisms and clinical features of the HHLA2/KIR3DL3/TMIGD2 pathway in the context of potential strategies for malignancy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Kula
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-808 Katowice, Poland; (M.D.); (D.W.)
| | - Dominika Koszewska
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 19 Jordana, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (D.K.); (A.K.); (S.M.); (E.Ś.)
| | - Anna Kot
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 19 Jordana, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (D.K.); (A.K.); (S.M.); (E.Ś.)
| | - Miriam Dawidowicz
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-808 Katowice, Poland; (M.D.); (D.W.)
| | - Sylwia Mielcarska
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 19 Jordana, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (D.K.); (A.K.); (S.M.); (E.Ś.)
| | - Dariusz Waniczek
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-808 Katowice, Poland; (M.D.); (D.W.)
| | - Elżbieta Świętochowska
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 19 Jordana, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (D.K.); (A.K.); (S.M.); (E.Ś.)
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5
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Zheng R, Liu X, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Wang Y, Guo S, Jin X, Zhang J, Guan Y, Liu Y. Frontiers and future of immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer: from molecular mechanisms to clinical application. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1383978. [PMID: 38756774 PMCID: PMC11096556 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive malignant tumor, that is becoming increasingly common in recent years. Despite advances in intensive treatment modalities including surgery, radiotherapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy, the overall survival rate has not significantly improved in patients with pancreatic cancer. This may be attributed to the insidious onset, unknown pathophysiology, and poor prognosis of the disease. It is therefore essential to identify and develop more effective and safer treatments for pancreatic cancer. Tumor immunotherapy is the new and fourth pillar of anti-tumor therapy after surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Significant progress has made in the use of immunotherapy for a wide variety of malignant tumors in recent years; a breakthrough has also been made in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. This review describes the advances in immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, oncolytic virus, and matrix-depletion therapies for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. At the same time, some new potential biomarkers and potential immunotherapy combinations for pancreatic cancer are discussed. The molecular mechanisms of various immunotherapies have also been elucidated, and their clinical applications have been highlighted. The current challenges associated with immunotherapy and proposed strategies that hold promise in overcoming these limitations have also been discussed, with the aim of offering new insights into immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zheng
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaobin Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yufu Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Yan’an University, Yan’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yongxian Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shutong Guo
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoyan Jin
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuehong Guan
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yusi Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
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6
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Yao H, ZhuGe Y, Jin S, Chen S, Zhang H, Zhang D, Chen Z. The efficacy of coaxial percutaneous iodine-125 seed implantation combined with arterial infusion chemotherapy for advanced pancreatic cancer: a randomized clinical trial. Int J Radiat Biol 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38687687 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2024.2347357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of coaxial percutaneous Iodine-125 (125I) seed implantation in combination with arterial infusion chemotherapy for the treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer (PC) through a randomized controlled trial. METHODS A total of 101 patients with advanced PC were randomized into two groups: control group treated with systemic intravenous chemotherapy and experimental group that received 125I seed implantation in combination with arterial infusion chemotherapy. Outcomes, including tumor control, abdominal pain relief, and survival time were compared between these two groups (Trial Registration No. KYKT2018-65). RESULTS Pretreatment abdominal pain scores were comparable between the two groups, whereas the abdominal pain scores at 1- and 3-month post-treatment were significantly lower in the control group than those in the experimental group (1-month: 3.74 ± 1.54 vs. 4.48 ± 1.46, p = .015; 3-month: 3.64 ± 2.21 vs. 5.40 ± 1.56, p < .001). At 3-month post-treatment, computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a significantly higher disease control rate in the experimental group than that in the control group (94.0% vs. 74.5%, p = .007). The median survival time in the experimental group was significantly longer than that in the control group (15-month vs. 9-month, p < .001). CONCLUSION The combination of coaxial percutaneous 125I seed implantation with arterial infusion chemotherapy could significantly alleviate abdominal pain, improve tumor control rates, and prolong survival time in patients with advanced PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- HongXiang Yao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ying ZhuGe
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - ShiXiang Jin
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - ShuiBing Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - HengYiTing Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - ZhiGang Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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7
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Silva LGDO, Lemos FFB, Luz MS, Rocha Pinheiro SL, Calmon MDS, Correa Santos GL, Rocha GR, de Melo FF. New avenues for the treatment of immunotherapy-resistant pancreatic cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:1134-1153. [PMID: 38660642 PMCID: PMC11037047 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i4.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is characterized by its extremely aggressive nature and ranks 14th in the number of new cancer cases worldwide. However, due to its complexity, it ranks 7th in the list of the most lethal cancers worldwide. The pathogenesis of PC involves several complex processes, including familial genetic factors associated with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, chronic pancreatitis, and smoking. Mutations in genes such as KRAS, TP53, and SMAD4 are linked to the appearance of malignant cells that generate pancreatic lesions and, consequently, cancer. In this context, some therapies are used for PC, one of which is immunotherapy, which is extremely promising in various other types of cancer but has shown little response in the treatment of PC due to various resistance mechanisms that contribute to a drop in immunotherapy efficiency. It is therefore clear that the tumor microenvironment (TME) has a huge impact on the resistance process, since cellular and non-cellular elements create an immunosuppressive environment, characterized by a dense desmoplastic stroma with cancer-associated fibroblasts, pancreatic stellate cells, extracellular matrix, and immunosuppressive cells. Linked to this are genetic mutations in TP53 and immunosuppressive factors that act on T cells, resulting in a shortage of CD8+ T cells and limited expression of activation markers such as interferon-gamma. In this way, finding new strategies that make it possible to manipulate resistance mechanisms is necessary. Thus, techniques such as the use of TME modulators that block receptors and stromal molecules that generate resistance, the use of genetic manipulation in specific regions, such as microRNAs, the modulation of extrinsic and intrinsic factors associated with T cells, and, above all, therapeutic models that combine these modulation techniques constitute the promising future of PC therapy. Thus, this study aims to elucidate the main mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy in PC and new ways of manipulating this process, resulting in a more efficient therapy for cancer patients and, consequently, a reduction in the lethality of this aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabian Fellipe Bueno Lemos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Marcel Silva Luz
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Samuel Luca Rocha Pinheiro
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Mariana dos Santos Calmon
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Lima Correa Santos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Reis Rocha
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Freire de Melo
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
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8
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Jacobs MF, Stoffel EM. Genetic and other risk factors for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Fam Cancer 2024:10.1007/s10689-024-00372-5. [PMID: 38573398 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-024-00372-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, resulting in poor prognosis and low 5-year survival rates. While early evidence suggests increased long-term survival in those with screen-detected resectable cancers, surveillance imaging is currently only recommended for individuals with a lifetime risk of PDAC ≥ 5%. Identification of risk factors for PDAC provides opportunities for early detection, risk reducing interventions, and targeted therapies, thus potentially improving patient outcomes. Here, we summarize modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for PDAC. We review hereditary cancer syndromes associated with risk for PDAC and their implications for patients and their relatives. In addition, other biologically relevant pathways and environmental and lifestyle risk factors are discussed. Future work may focus on elucidating additional genetic, environmental, and lifestyle risk factors that may modify PDAC risk to continue to identify individuals at increased risk for PDAC who may benefit from surveillance and risk reducing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle F Jacobs
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Elena M Stoffel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
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9
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Enzler T, Shi J, McGue J, Griffith BD, Sun L, Sahai V, Nathan H, Frankel TL. A Comparison of Spatial and Phenotypic Immune Profiles of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Its Precursor Lesions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2953. [PMID: 38474199 PMCID: PMC10932200 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease with a 5-year survival rate of 12.5%. PDAC predominantly arises from non-cystic pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) and cystic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN). We used multiplex immunofluorescence and computational imaging technology to characterize, map, and compare the immune microenvironments (IMEs) of PDAC and its precursor lesions. We demonstrate that the IME of IPMN was abundantly infiltrated with CD8+ T cells and PD-L1-positive antigen-presenting cells (APCs), whereas the IME of PanIN contained fewer CD8+ T cells and fewer PD-L1-positive APCs but elevated numbers of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs). Thus, immunosuppression in IPMN and PanIN seems to be mediated by different mechanisms. While immunosuppression in IPMN is facilitated by PD-L1 expression on APCs, Tregs seem to play a key role in PanIN. Our findings suggest potential immunotherapeutic interventions for high-risk precursor lesions, namely, targeting PD-1/PD-L1 in IPMN and CTLA-4-positive Tregs in PanIN to restore immunosurveillance and prevent progression to cancer. Tregs accumulate with malignant transformation, as observed in PDAC, and to a lesser extent in IPMN-associated PDAC (IAPA). High numbers of Tregs in the microenvironment of PDAC went along with a markedly decreased interaction between CD8+ T cells and cancerous epithelial cells (ECs), highlighting the importance of Tregs as key players in immunosuppression in PDAC. We found evidence that a defect in antigen presentation, further aggravated by PD-L1 expression on APC, may contribute to immunosuppression in IAPA, suggesting a role for PD-L1/PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of IAPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Enzler
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jiaqi Shi
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Jake McGue
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.M.); (B.D.G.); (L.S.); (H.N.)
| | - Brian D. Griffith
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.M.); (B.D.G.); (L.S.); (H.N.)
| | - Lei Sun
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.M.); (B.D.G.); (L.S.); (H.N.)
| | - Vaibhav Sahai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Hari Nathan
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.M.); (B.D.G.); (L.S.); (H.N.)
| | - Timothy L. Frankel
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.M.); (B.D.G.); (L.S.); (H.N.)
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10
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Huang XD, Chen YW, Tian L, Du L, Cheng XC, Lu YX, Lin DD, Xiao FJ. NUDT21 interacts with NDUFS2 to activate the PI3K/AKT pathway and promotes pancreatic cancer pathogenesis. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:8. [PMID: 38195952 PMCID: PMC10776698 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05540-1] [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: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND NUDT21 (Nudix Hydrolase 21) has been shown to play an essential role in multiple biological processes. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is one of the most fatal cancers in the world. However, the biological function of NUDT21 in PAAD remains rarely understood. The aim of this research was to identify the prediction value of NUDT21 in diagnosis, prognosis, immune infiltration, and signal pathway in PAAD. METHODS Combined with the data in online databases, we analyzed the expression, immune infiltration, function enrichment, signal pathway, diagnosis, and prognosis of NUDT21 in PAAD. Then, the biological function of NUDT21 and its interacted protein in PAAD was identified through plasmid transduction system and protein mass spectrometry. Expression of NUDT21 was further verified in clinical specimens by immunofluorescence. RESULTS We found that NUDT21 was upregulated in PAAD tissues and was significantly associated with the diagnosis and prognosis of pancreatic cancer through bioinformatic data analysis. We also found that overexpression of NUDT21 enhanced PAAD cells proliferation and migration, whereas knockdown NUDT21 restored the effects through in vitro experiment. Moreover, NDUFS2 was recognized as a potential target of NUDT21.We further verified that the expression of NDUFS2 was positively correlated with NUDT21 in PAAD clinical specimens. Mechanically, we found that NUDT21 stabilizes NDUFS2 and activates the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Our investigation reveals that NUDT21 is a previously unrecognized oncogenic factor in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment target of PAAD, and we suggest that NUDT21 might be a novel therapeutic target in PAAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Wei Chen
- Faculty of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, People's Republic of China
| | - Lv Tian
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, 130015, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Du
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Chen Cheng
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Xin Lu
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong-Dong Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, People's Republic of China.
| | - Feng-Jun Xiao
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Buckley CW, O’Reilly EM. Next-generation therapies for pancreatic cancer. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 18:55-72. [PMID: 38415709 PMCID: PMC10960610 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2024.2322648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreas ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a frequently lethal malignancy that poses unique therapeutic challenges. The current mainstay of therapy for metastatic PDAC (mPDAC) is cytotoxic chemotherapy. NALIRIFOX (liposomal irinotecan, fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin) is an emerging standard of care in the metastatic setting. An evolving understanding of PDAC pathogenesis is driving a shift toward targeted therapy. Olaparib, a poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, has regulatory approval for maintenance therapy in BRCA-mutated mPDAC along with other targeted agents receiving disease-agnostic approvals including for PDAC with rare fusions and mismatch repair deficiency. Ongoing research continues to identify and evaluate an expanding array of targeted therapies for PDAC. AREAS COVERED This review provides a brief overview of standard therapies for PDAC and an emphasis on current and emerging targeted therapies. EXPERT OPINION There is notable potential for targeted therapies for KRAS-mutated PDAC with opportunity for meaningful benefit for a sizable portion of patients with this disease. Further, emerging approaches are focused on novel immune, tumor microenvironment, and synthetic lethality strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor W. Buckley
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
| | - Eileen M. O’Reilly
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, USA
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12
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Cheng P, Ming S, Cao W, Wu J, Tian Q, Zhu J, Wei W. Recent advances in sonodynamic therapy strategies for pancreatic cancer. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 16:e1945. [PMID: 38403882 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, a prevalent malignancy of the digestive system, has a poor 5-year survival rate of around 10%. Although numerous minimally invasive alternative treatments, including photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy, have shown effectiveness compared with traditional surgical procedures, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. However, the application of these alternative treatments is constrained by their depth of penetration, making it challenging to treat pancreatic cancer situated deep within the tissue. Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) has emerged as a promising minimally invasive therapy method that is particularly potent against deep-seated tumors such as pancreatic cancer. However, the unique characteristics of pancreatic cancer, including a dense surrounding matrix, high reductivity, and a hypoxic tumor microenvironment, impede the efficient application of SDT. Thus, to guide the evolution of SDT for pancreatic cancer therapy, this review addresses these challenges, examines current strategies for effective SDT enhancement for pancreatic cancer, and investigates potential future advances to boost clinical applicability. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Cheng
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shuai Ming
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jixiao Wu
- School of Materials and Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Qiwei Tian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- School of Materials and Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
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13
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Quilbe A, Mustapha R, Duchêne B, Kumar A, Werkmeister E, Leteurtre E, Moralès O, Jonckheere N, Van Seuningen I, Delhem N. A novel anti-galectin-9 immunotherapy limits the early progression of pancreatic neoplastic lesions in transgenic mice. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1267279. [PMID: 38098486 PMCID: PMC10720041 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1267279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease with an urgent need for therapeutic innovation. Immune checkpoint inhibition has shown promise in a variety of solid tumors, but most clinical trials have failed to demonstrate clinical efficacy in PDAC. This low efficacy is partly explained by a highly immunosuppressive microenvironment, which dampens anti-tumor immunity through the recruitment or induction of immunosuppressive cells, particularly regulatory T cells (Tregs). In this context, our laboratory has developed a novel immunotherapeutic strategy aimed at inhibiting the suppressive activity of Tregs, based on a patented (EP3152234B1) monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting galectin-9 (LGALS9). Materials and methods CD4+ conventional T cells (TCD4 or Tconv), Treg ratio, and LGALS9 expression were analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and cytometry in blood and pancreas of K-rasLSL.G12D/+;Pdx-1-Cre (KC) and K-rasWildType (WT);Pdx1-Cre (WT) mice aged 4-13 months. Pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasm (PanIN) progression and grade were quantified using FIJI software and validated by pathologists. The anti-galectin-9 mAb was validated for its use in mice on isolated murine C57BL/6 Treg by immunofluorescence staining and cytometry. Its specificity and functionality were validated in proliferation assays on rLGALS9-immunosuppressed murine Tconv and in suppression assays between murine Treg and Tconv. Finally, 2-month-old KC mice were treated with anti-LGALS9 and compared to WT mice for peripheral and infiltrating TCD4, Treg, and PanIN progression. Results IHC and cytometry revealed a significant increase in LGALS9 expression and Treg levels in the blood and pancreas of KC mice proportional to the stages of precancerous lesions. Although present in WT mice, LGALS9 is expressed at a basal level with low and restricted expression that increases slightly over time, while Treg cells are few in number in their circulation and even absent from the pancreas over time. Using our anti-LGALS9 mAb in mice, it is shown that (i) murine Treg express LGALS9, (ii) the mAb could target and inhibit recombinant murine LGALS9, and (iii) neutralize murine Treg suppressive activity. Finally, the anti-LGALS9 mAb in KC mice reduced (i) LGALS9 expression in pancreatic cancer cells, (ii) the Treg ratio, and (iii) the total surface area and grade of PanIN. Conclusion We demonstrate for the first time that an anti-LGALS9 antibody, by specifically targeting endogenous LGALS9 tumor and exogenous LGALS9 produced by Treg, was able to limit the progression of pancreatic neoplastic lesions in mice, opening up new prospects for its use as an immunotherapeutic tool in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Quilbe
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189 - ONCO-THAI - Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille, France
| | - Rami Mustapha
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189 - ONCO-THAI - Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille, France
- Department of Cancer Studies and Pharmaceutical Sciences New Hunt’s House, School of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Belinda Duchêne
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille, France
| | - Abhishek Kumar
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189 - ONCO-THAI - Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille, France
| | - Elisabeth Werkmeister
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, US 41 - UMS 2014 -PLBS, Lille, France
| | - Emmanuelle Leteurtre
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille, France
| | - Olivier Moralès
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189 - ONCO-THAI - Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille, France
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille, France
| | - Nicolas Jonckheere
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille, France
| | - Isabelle Van Seuningen
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille, France
| | - Nadira Delhem
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189 - ONCO-THAI - Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille, France
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14
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Chen Z, He Y, Ding C, Chen J, Gu Y, Xiao M, Li Q. Safety and Efficacy Analysis of PD-1 Inhibitors in Combination with Gemcitabine Plus Nab-Paclitaxel for Advanced Pancreatic Cancer: A Real-World, Single-Center Study. Onco Targets Ther 2023; 16:923-935. [PMID: 37965584 PMCID: PMC10642393 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s427942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease with a low five years survival rate, and chemotherapy remains the standard treatment for advanced cases. However, the efficacy of chemotherapy alone is limited, and there is a need for new treatment options. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), particularly programmed death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors, have shown promising results in various cancers, including pancreatic cancer. In this study, we explore the safety and efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors in combination with chemotherapy for advanced pancreatic cancer. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data from 27 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who were administered a combination of anti-PD-1 antibody and gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GnP) regimen. The study evaluated the safety of the treatment as well as the objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Results In this study, treatment with a combination of anti-PD-1 antibody and GnP regimen for pancreatic cancer resulted in partial response (PR) for 10 out of 27 (37.04%) patients, stable disease (SD) for 10 (37.04%) patients, and progressive disease (PD) for 7 (25.92%) patients. The study found that the median OS (mOS) for these patients was 16.4 months [standard error (SE) = 1.117, 95% confidence interval (CI) 14.211-18.589], while the median PFS (mPFS) was 6.4 months (SE = 1.217, 95% CI 3.981-8.752). Subgroup analysis revealed that pancreatic cancer patients' Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) (0 vs 1) and treatment cycles (≤6 cycles vs >6 cycles) significantly affected OS and PFS. Patients experienced mostly grade 1-2 adverse events (AEs), which were relieved through clinical treatment. Conclusion The combination of GnP with anti-PD-1 antibodies shows promise as a potential treatment option for advanced pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhitao Chen
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yahui He
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University Zhejiang Shuren College, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chenchen Ding
- Child and Adolescent Psychology, Affiliated Mental Health Centre & Hangzhou Seventh People’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310013, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Chen
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University Zhejiang Shuren College, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yangjun Gu
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Xiao
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiyong Li
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
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15
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Xu J, Zhou L, Du X, Qi Z, Chen S, Zhang J, Cao X, Xia J. Transcriptome and Lipidomic Analysis Suggests Lipid Metabolism Reprogramming and Upregulating SPHK1 Promotes Stemness in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Stem-like Cells. Metabolites 2023; 13:1132. [PMID: 37999228 PMCID: PMC10673379 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13111132] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to play a key role in the development and progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, little is known about lipid metabolism reprogramming in PDAC CSCs. Here, we assigned stemness indices, which were used to describe and quantify CSCs, to every patient from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA-PAAD) database and observed differences in lipid metabolism between patients with high and low stemness indices. Then, tumor-repopulating cells (TRCs) cultured in soft 3D (three-dimensional) fibrin gels were demonstrated to be an available PDAC cancer stem-like cell (CSLCs) model. Comprehensive transcriptome and lipidomic analysis results suggested that fatty acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and, especially, the sphingolipid metabolism pathway were mostly associated with CSLCs properties. SPHK1 (sphingosine kinases 1), one of the genes involved in sphingolipid metabolism and encoding the key enzyme to catalyze sphingosine to generate S1P (sphingosine-1-phosphate), was identified to be the key gene in promoting the stemness of PDAC. In summary, we explored the characteristics of lipid metabolism both in patients with high stemness indices and in novel CSLCs models, and unraveled a molecular mechanism via which sphingolipid metabolism maintained tumor stemness. These findings may contribute to the development of a strategy for targeting lipid metabolism to inhibit CSCs in PDAC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinzhi Xu
- National Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lina Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Xiaojing Du
- Endoscopy Center, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Zhuoran Qi
- National Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Sinuo Chen
- National Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- National Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xin Cao
- National Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jinglin Xia
- National Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
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16
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Leowattana W, Leowattana P, Leowattana T. Systemic treatment for advanced pancreatic cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:1691-1705. [PMID: 37969416 PMCID: PMC10631439 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i10.1691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease with an extremely poor 5-year survival rate due to treatment resistance and late-stage detection. Despite numerous years of research and pharmaceutical development, these figures have not changed. Treatment options for advanced pancreatic cancer are still limited. This illness is typically detected at a late stage, making curative surgical resection impossible. Chemotherapy is the most commonly utilized technique for treating advanced pancreatic cancer but has poor efficacy. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy have made significant progress in many other cancer types and have been proven to have extremely promising possibilities; these therapies also hold promise for pancreatic cancer. There is an urgent need for research into targeted treatment, immunotherapy, and cancer vaccines. In this review, we emphasize the foundational findings that have fueled the therapeutic strategy for advanced pancreatic cancer. We also address current advancements in targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and cancer vaccines, all of which continue to improve the clinical outcome of advanced pancreatic cancer. We believe that clinical translation of these novel treatments will improve the low survival rate of this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wattana Leowattana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Rachatawee 10400, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pathomthep Leowattana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Rachatawee 10400, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tawithep Leowattana
- Department of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Wattana 10110, Bangkok, Thailand
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17
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Shalata W, Abu Jama A, Abu Salman A, Golosky M, Solomon A, Abu Saleh O, Michlin R, Shalata S, Agbarya A, Yakobson A. Unexpected and Rare Sites of Metastasis in Oncologic Patients. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6447. [PMID: 37892585 PMCID: PMC10607747 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12206447] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Case studies of rare oncologic metastases are an important source of clinical data for health care professionals and researchers. While infrequent, the knowledge base and clinical recommendations derived from such cases aid in advancements in the field. As such, we aim to add five cases to the growing body of literature. The first two male patients, aged 69 and 73, were diagnosed with colon adenocarcinoma, suspected to be a second primary prostate carcinoma, following positron emission tomography-computer tomography (PET-CT). This suspicion was ruled out by prostatectomy and histopathological investigations, which instead found adenocarcinoma of colonic origin. The next two male patients, ages 63 and 68, were diagnosed, respectively, with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma with cardiac metastases and metastatic melanoma with distant metastases to the pancreas. The final patient was a 73-year-old male diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer after a radiological investigation of suspected renal cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walid Shalata
- The Legacy Heritage Cancer Center and Dr. Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.A.J.)
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel (A.S.)
| | - Ashraf Abu Jama
- The Legacy Heritage Cancer Center and Dr. Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.A.J.)
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel (A.S.)
| | - Amjad Abu Salman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel (A.S.)
- Cardiology Division, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Mitchell Golosky
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel (A.S.)
- Medical School for International Health and Sciences, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Adam Solomon
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel (A.S.)
- Medical School for International Health and Sciences, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Omar Abu Saleh
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, The Emek Medical Centre, Afula 18341, Israel
| | - Regina Michlin
- The Legacy Heritage Cancer Center and Dr. Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.A.J.)
| | - Sondos Shalata
- Nutrition Unit, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya 22000, Israel;
| | - Abed Agbarya
- Department of Oncology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Alexander Yakobson
- The Legacy Heritage Cancer Center and Dr. Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.A.J.)
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18
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Du H, Si G, Si J, Song X, Si F. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed malignant ductal cell heterogeneity and prognosis signatures in pancreatic cancer. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2023; 47:102200. [PMID: 37643692 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2023.102200] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PAC) remains one of the most lethal malignant neoplasms, which is diagnosed at an advanced stage and thus lose the chance for curative resection. Here, we further probed PAC with a comprehensive multi-omics approach. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we provided an integrated analysis of ductal cell subpopulations over the Leiden algorithm to identify two mian subcluster: S100A6 + cells and FXYD2 + cells. The gene set enrichment analysis results show that the two subtypes focused on different pathways related to tumor development. Furthermore, we integrated bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing datasets to generate and validate the prognostic signatures of the overall survival (OS) in PAC patients and S100A6 + cells were significantly enriched in high-risk groups which had a poor prognosis. Collectively, this research expands our understanding of ductal cell and provides a new reliable prognosis signature in PAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyang Du
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (Zhong Jing) school, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of TCM Syndrome and Prescription Signaling, Henan International Joint Laboratory of TCM Syndrome and Prescription Signaling, Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Gao Si
- Department of Orthopedic, The Third Hospital of Peking University, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Jiqing Si
- Henan Hospital of TCM, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Xuejie Song
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (Zhong Jing) school, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of TCM Syndrome and Prescription Signaling, Henan International Joint Laboratory of TCM Syndrome and Prescription Signaling, Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Fuchun Si
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (Zhong Jing) school, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of TCM Syndrome and Prescription Signaling, Henan International Joint Laboratory of TCM Syndrome and Prescription Signaling, Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China.
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19
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Bubin R, Uljanovs R, Strumfa I. Cancer Stem Cells in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087030. [PMID: 37108193 PMCID: PMC10138709 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087030] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The first discovery of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in leukaemia triggered active research on stemness in neoplastic tissues. CSCs represent a subpopulation of malignant cells, defined by unique properties: a dedifferentiated state, self-renewal, pluripotency, an inherent resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy, the presence of certain epigenetic alterations, as well as a higher tumorigenicity in comparison with the general population of cancer cells. A combination of these features highlights CSCs as a high-priority target during cancer treatment. The presence of CSCs has been confirmed in multiple malignancies, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, an entity that is well known for its dismal prognosis. As the aggressive course of pancreatic carcinoma is partly attributable to treatment resistance, CSCs could contribute to adverse outcomes. The aim of this review is to summarize the current information regarding the markers and molecular features of CSCs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and the therapeutic options to remove them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Bubin
- Faculty of Medicine, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema Street, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
| | - Romans Uljanovs
- Department of Pathology, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema Street, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
| | - Ilze Strumfa
- Department of Pathology, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema Street, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
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Beckinger S, Daunke T, Aldag L, Krüger S, Heckl S, Wesch D, Schäfer H, Röcken C, Rahn S, Sebens S. Hepatic myofibroblasts exert immunosuppressive effects independent of the immune checkpoint regulator PD-L1 in liver metastasis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1160824. [PMID: 37207152 PMCID: PMC10189124 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1160824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents the 4th most common cause of cancer-related deaths in Western countries. Most patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, often already with metastases. The main site of metastasis is the liver and hepatic myofibroblasts (HMF) play a pivotal role in metastatic outgrowth. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) targeting programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) or programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) improved treatment of several cancers but not of PDAC. Therefore, this study aimed to better understand the impact of HMF on PD-L1 expression and immune evasion of PDAC cells during liver metastasis. Methods Formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded biopsy samples or diagnostic resection specimens from liver metastases of 15 PDAC patients were used for immunohistochemical analyses. Serial sections were stained with antibodies directed against Pan-Cytokeratin, αSMA, CD8, and PD-L1. To investigate whether the PD-1/PD-L1 axis and HMF contribute to immune escape of PDAC liver metastases, a stroma enriched 3D spheroid coculture model was established in vitro, using two different PDAC cell lines, HMF, and CD8+ T cells. Here, functional and flow cytometry analyses were conducted. Results Immunohistochemical analysis of liver tissue sections of PDAC patients revealed that HMF represent an abundant stroma population in liver metastases, with clear differences in the spatial distribution in small (1500 µm) and large (> 1500 μm) metastases. In the latter, PD-L1 expression was mainly located at the invasion front or evenly distributed, while small metastases either lacked PD-L1 expression or showed mostly weak expression in the center. Double stainings revealed that PD-L1 is predominantly expressed by stromal cells, especially HMF. Small liver metastases with no or low PD-L1 expression comprised more CD8+ T cells in the tumor center, while large metastases exhibiting stronger PD-L1 expression comprised less CD8+ T cells being mostly located at the invasion front. HMF-enriched spheroid cocultures with different ratios of PDAC cells and HMF well mimicking conditions of hepatic metastases in situ. Here, HMF impaired the release of effector molecules by CD8+ T cells and the induction of PDAC cell death, an effect that was dependent on the amount of HMF but also of PDAC cells. ICI treatment led to elevated secretion of distinct CD8+ T cell effector molecules but did not increase PDAC cell death under either spheroid condition. Conclusion Our findings indicate a spatial reorganization of HMF, CD8+ T cells, and PD-L1 expression during progression of PDAC liver metastases. Furthermore, HMF potently impair the effector phenotype of CD8+ T cells but the PD-L1/PD-1 axis apparently plays a minor role in this scenario suggesting that immune evasion of PDAC liver metastases relies on other immunosuppressive mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silje Beckinger
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Tina Daunke
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Leon Aldag
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Sandra Krüger
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Steffen Heckl
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Daniela Wesch
- Institute of Immunology, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Heiner Schäfer
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Christoph Röcken
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Sascha Rahn
- Institute of Biochemistry, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Susanne Sebens
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- *Correspondence: Susanne Sebens,
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