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Korbecki J, Bosiacki M, Kupnicka P, Barczak K, Chlubek D, Baranowska-Bosiacka I. CXCR4 as a therapeutic target in acute myeloid leukemia. Leukemia 2024:10.1038/s41375-024-02326-3. [PMID: 39261603 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-024-02326-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Extensive research on the CXCL12-CXCR4 axis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has resulted in the incorporation of novel anti-leukemia drugs targeting this axis into therapeutic strategies. However, despite this progress, a comprehensive and up-to-date review addressing the role of the CXCL12-CXCR4 axis in AML's oncogenic processes is lacking. In this review, we examine its molecular aspects influencing cancer progression, such as its impact on autonomous proliferation, apoptotic regulation, chemoresistance mechanisms, and interactions with non-leukemic cells such as MSCs and Treg cells. Additionally, we explore clinical implications, including prognosis, correlation with WBC count, blast count in the bone marrow and peripheral blood, as well as its association with FLT3-ITD, NPM1 mutations, and FAB classification. Finally, this paper extensively discusses drugs that specifically target the CXCL12-CXCR4 axis, including plerixafor/AMD3100, ulocuplumab, peptide E5, and motixafortide, shedding light on their potential therapeutic value in the treatment of AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Korbecki
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Góra, Zyty 28, 65-046, Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Mateusz Bosiacki
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Patrycja Kupnicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Barczak
- Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Dariusz Chlubek
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Irena Baranowska-Bosiacka
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland.
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Lu K, Wang W, Liu Y, Xie C, Liu J, Xing L. Advancements in microenvironment-based therapies: transforming the landscape of multiple myeloma treatment. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1413494. [PMID: 39087026 PMCID: PMC11288838 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1413494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is the most prevalent malignant monoclonal disease of plasma cells. There is mounting evidence that interactions with the bone marrow (BM) niche are essential for the differentiation, proliferation, survival, migration, and treatment resistance of myeloma cells. For this reason, gaining a deeper comprehension of how BM microenvironment compartments interact with myeloma cells may inspire new therapeutic ideas that enhance patient outcomes. This review will concentrate on the most recent findings regarding the mechanisms of interaction between microenvironment and MM and highlight research on treatment targeting the BM niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Lu
- Department of Lymphoma, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wen Wang
- Department of Lymphoma, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuntong Liu
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Chao Xie
- Department of Respiratory, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jiye Liu
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lijie Xing
- Department of Lymphoma, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, Postdoctoral Scientific Research Workstation, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
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3
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Slezak AJ, Chang K, Beckman TN, Refvik KC, Alpar AT, Lauterbach AL, Solanki A, Kwon JW, Gomes S, Mansurov A, Hubbell JA. Cysteine-binding adjuvant enhances survival and promotes immune function in a murine model of acute myeloid leukemia. Blood Adv 2024; 8:1747-1759. [PMID: 38324726 PMCID: PMC10985806 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023012529] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Therapeutic vaccination has long been a promising avenue for cancer immunotherapy but is often limited by tumor heterogeneity. The genetic and molecular diversity between patients often results in variation in the antigens present on cancer cell surfaces. As a result, recent research has focused on personalized cancer vaccines. Although promising, this strategy suffers from time-consuming production, high cost, inaccessibility, and targeting of a limited number of tumor antigens. Instead, we explore an antigen-agnostic polymeric in situ cancer vaccination platform for treating blood malignancies, in our model here with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Rather than immunizing against specific antigens or targeting adjuvant to specific cell-surface markers, this platform leverages a characteristic metabolic and enzymatic dysregulation in cancer cells that produces an excess of free cysteine thiols on their surfaces. These thiols increase in abundance after treatment with cytotoxic agents such as cytarabine, the current standard of care in AML. The resulting free thiols can undergo efficient disulfide exchange with pyridyl disulfide (PDS) moieties on our construct and allow for in situ covalent attachment to cancer cell surfaces and debris. PDS-functionalized monomers are incorporated into a statistical copolymer with pendant mannose groups and TLR7 agonists to target covalently linked antigen and adjuvant to antigen-presenting cells in the liver and spleen after IV administration. There, the compound initiates an anticancer immune response, including T-cell activation and antibody generation, ultimately prolonging survival in cancer-bearing mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna J. Slezak
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Kevin Chang
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Taryn N. Beckman
- Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Kirsten C. Refvik
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Aaron T. Alpar
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Ani Solanki
- Animal Resource Center, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Jung Woo Kwon
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Suzana Gomes
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Aslan Mansurov
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Jeffrey A. Hubbell
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Committee on Immunology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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4
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Miari KE, Williams MTS. Stromal bone marrow fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells support acute myeloid leukaemia cells and promote therapy resistance. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:216-237. [PMID: 36609915 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The bone marrow (BM) is the primary site of adult haematopoiesis, where stromal elements (e.g. fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells [MSCs]) work in concert to support blood cell development. However, the establishment of an abnormal clone can lead to a blood malignancy, such as acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Despite our increased understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease, patient survival remains suboptimal, mainly driven by the development of therapy resistance. In this review, we highlight the importance of bone marrow fibroblasts and MSCs in health and acute myeloid leukaemia and their impact on patient prognosis. We discuss how stromal elements reduce the killing effects of therapies via a combination of contact-dependent (e.g. integrins) and contact-independent (i.e. secreted factors) mechanisms, accompanied by the establishment of an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Importantly, we underline the challenges of therapeutically targeting the bone marrow stroma to improve acute myeloid leukaemia patient outcomes, due to the inherent heterogeneity of stromal cell populations. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Cancer Microenvironment and Pharmacological Interventions. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.2/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina E Miari
- Charles Oakley Laboratories, Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Mark T S Williams
- Charles Oakley Laboratories, Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
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Skelding KA, Barry DL, Theron DZ, Lincz LF. Bone Marrow Microenvironment as a Source of New Drug Targets for the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:563. [PMID: 36614005 PMCID: PMC9820412 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease with one of the worst survival rates of all cancers. The bone marrow microenvironment is increasingly being recognised as an important mediator of AML chemoresistance and relapse, supporting leukaemia stem cell survival through interactions among stromal, haematopoietic progenitor and leukaemic cells. Traditional therapies targeting leukaemic cells have failed to improve long term survival rates, and as such, the bone marrow niche has become a promising new source of potential therapeutic targets, particularly for relapsed and refractory AML. This review briefly discusses the role of the bone marrow microenvironment in AML development and progression, and as a source of novel therapeutic targets for AML. The main focus of this review is on drugs that modulate/target this bone marrow microenvironment and have been examined in in vivo models or clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn A. Skelding
- Cancer Cell Biology Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Daniel L. Barry
- Cancer Cell Biology Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Danielle Z. Theron
- Cancer Cell Biology Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Lisa F. Lincz
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Hunter Hematology Research Group, Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital, Waratah, NSW 2298, Australia
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Mehrpouri M. The contributory roles of the CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis in normal and malignant hematopoiesis: A possible therapeutic target in hematologic malignancies. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 920:174831. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.174831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Boulad F, Zhang J, Yazdanbakhsh K, Sadelain M, Shi PA. Evidence for continued dose escalation of plerixafor for hematopoietic progenitor cell collections in sickle cell disease. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2021; 90:102588. [PMID: 34166998 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2021.102588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We present data from our study of plerixafor mobilization (NCT02193191) relevant to the question of whether further dose escalation of plerixafor can address inconsistent adequacy of CD34+ mobilization for gene therapy of sickle cell disease (SCD). We found that, in the same patient, higher plerixafor dosing was associated with higher fold increases in PB CD34+ count, but not necessarily higher absolute CD34+ counts. Variation in pre-apheresis absolute CD34+ counts was related to intra-individual variation in baseline PB CD34+ counts and inter-individual variation in responsiveness to plerixafor. Overall, our results support further studies of continued dose escalation of plerixafor for autologous HPC collection in SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Boulad
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- New York Blood Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | | | - Michel Sadelain
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Patricia A Shi
- New York Blood Center, New York, NY, United States of America; Sickle Cell Program, Division of Hematology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States of America.
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Cancilla D, Rettig MP, DiPersio JF. Targeting CXCR4 in AML and ALL. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1672. [PMID: 33014834 PMCID: PMC7499473 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The interaction of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) blasts with the bone marrow microenvironment regulates self-renewal, growth signaling, as well as chemotherapy resistance. The chemokine receptor, CXC receptor 4 (CXCR4), with its ligand chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12), plays a key role in the survival and migration of normal and malignant stem cells to the bone marrow. High expression of CXCR4 on AML and ALL blasts has been shown to be a predictor of poor prognosis for these diseases. Several small molecule inhibitors, short peptides, antibodies, and antibody drug conjugates have been developed for the purposes of more effective targeting and killing of malignant cells expressing CXCR4. In this review we will discuss recent results and strategies in targeting CXCR4 with these agents in patients with AML or ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - John F. DiPersio
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Maganti H, Visram A, Shorr R, Fulcher J, Sabloff M, Allan DS. Plerixafor in combination with chemotherapy and/or hematopoietic cell transplantation to treat acute leukemia: A systematic review and metanalysis of preclinical and clinical studies. Leuk Res 2020; 97:106442. [PMID: 32877869 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2020.106442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Leukemia-initiating cells localize to bone marrow niches via cell surface CXCR4 binding to stromal-derived factor 1 (SDF-1). Plerixafor, a CXCR4 antagonist, can mobilize and sensitize leukemia cells to cytotoxic therapy, and/or enhance the engraftment of healthy donor stem cells in the context of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). A systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies was performed (updated May 1, 2020) to inform the design of definitive clinical trials and identified 19 studies. Pooled data from 10 preclinical in-vivo studies of AML and ALL in mouse models of leukemia revealed significant mobilization of leukemia cells into the peripheral circulation, decreased total blast burden and increased survival with plerixafor in addition to cytotoxic treatment compared to control animals. Two of 9 clinical studies compared outcomes to a control group. Plerixafor appears well tolerated and safe and can mobilize leukemia cells into the peripheral circulation. In patients with AML undergoing HCT, plerixafor given with the conditioning regimen appears safe and well tolerated. Engraftment, relapse and survival were not different from controls after limited follow-up. Studies in high risk patients with AML with longer follow-up are needed to understand the influence on relapse following treatment and on donor cell engraftment following HCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harinad Maganti
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada
| | - Alissa Visram
- Department of Medicine (Hematology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Risa Shorr
- Medical Library, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Jill Fulcher
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada; Department of Medicine (Hematology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Mitchell Sabloff
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada; Department of Medicine (Hematology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - David S Allan
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada; Department of Medicine (Hematology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada.
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Xie F, Zhang L, Yao Q, Shan L, Liu J, Dong N, Liang J. TUG1 Promoted Tumor Progression by Sponging miR-335-5p and Regulating CXCR4-Mediated Infiltration of Pro-Tumor Immunocytes in CTNNB1-Mutated Hepatoblastoma. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:3105-3115. [PMID: 32341656 PMCID: PMC7166065 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s234819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction HB presents with the highest frequency of CTNNB1 mutations, resulting in activation of Wnt signaling pathway. A number of studies have demonstrated CTNNB1 mutation contributed to the development of HB. However, limited research explored the function of lncRNAs in HB with CTNNB1 mutation. Methods We screened lncRNA expression profiles in CTNNB1-mutated HB samples and identified lncRNAs associated with malignant phenotype in HB. The association between lncRNA and immune microenvironment was investigated. The biological function of lncRNA was further explored using in vitro experiments. Results TUG1 was identified as onco-lncRNA in CTNNB1-mutated HB. TUG1 was shown to be associated with the infiltration of pro-tumor immunocytes via regulating the expression of CXCR4, a chemokine receptor playing a critical role in regulation of immune microenvironment. Inhibiting TUG1 could increase endogenous levels of miR-335-5p and consequently downregulating CXCR4, a direct target of miR-335-5p. Conclusion Our findings provide evidence for TUG1 mediating infiltration of pro-tumor immunocytes in HB patients carrying CTNNB1 mutation. TUG1-miR-335-5p-CXCR4 axis might be a promising immunological target for the treatment of HB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fujing Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng 252000, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lianhai Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng 252000, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Yao
- Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Liyu Shan
- Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jike Liu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng 252000, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Nanhai Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng 252000, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng 252000, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
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Ghobrial IM, Liu CJ, Redd RA, Perez RP, Baz R, Zavidij O, Sklavenitis-Pistofidis R, Richardson PG, Anderson KC, Laubach J, Henrick P, Savell A, Reyes K, Hornburg K, Chuma S, Sabbatini P, Robbins MD, Becker PS. A Phase Ib/II Trial of the First-in-Class Anti-CXCR4 Antibody Ulocuplumab in Combination with Lenalidomide or Bortezomib Plus Dexamethasone in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma. Clin Cancer Res 2019; 26:344-353. [PMID: 31672767 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-19-0647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ulocuplumab (BMS-936564) is a first-in-class fully human IgG4 monoclonal anti-CXCR4 antibody that inhibits the binding of CXCR4 to CXCL12. PATIENTS AND METHODS This phase Ib/II study aimed to determine the safety and tolerability of ulocuplumab alone and in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (Arm A), or bortezomib and dexamethasone (Arm B), in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. RESULTS Forty-six patients were evaluated (median age, 60 years; range, 53-67). The median number of prior therapies was 3 (range, 1-11), with 70% of subjects having received ≥3. This trial had a dose-escalation and a dose-expansion part. Using a 3+3 design on both arms of the trial, ulocuplumab's dose was escalated to a maximum of 10 mg/kg without reaching MTD. The most common treatment-related adverse events (AE) were neutropenia (13 patients, 43.3%) in Arm A and thrombocytopenia (6 patients, 37.5%) in Arm B. No deaths related to study drugs occurred. The combination of ulocuplumab with lenalidomide and dexamethasone showed a high response rate (PR or better) of 55.2% and a clinical benefit rate of 72.4%, even in patients who had been previously treated with immunomodulatory agents (IMiD). CONCLUSIONS This study showed that blockade of the CXCR4-CXCL12 axis by ulocuplumab is safe with acceptable AEs and leads to a high response rate in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed/refractory myeloma, making CXCR4 inhibitors a promising class of antimyeloma drugs that should be further explored in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene M Ghobrial
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Chia-Jen Liu
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Robert A Redd
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Rachid Baz
- Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Oksana Zavidij
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Paul G Richardson
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kenneth C Anderson
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jacob Laubach
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Patrick Henrick
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alexandra Savell
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kaitlen Reyes
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kalvis Hornburg
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stacey Chuma
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Peter Sabbatini
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Sunnyvale, California.,Bristol-Myers Squibb, Princeton, New Jersey
| | - Michael D Robbins
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Sunnyvale, California.,Bristol-Myers Squibb, Princeton, New Jersey
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12
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Jung O, Beauvais DM, Adams KM, Rapraeger AC. VLA-4 phosphorylation during tumor and immune cell migration relies on its coupling to VEGFR2 and CXCR4 by syndecan-1. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.232645. [PMID: 31562188 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.232645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
When targeted by the tumor-promoting enzyme heparanase, cleaved and shed syndecan-1 (Sdc1) then couples VEGFR2 (also known as KDR) to VLA-4, activating VEGFR2 and the directed migration of myeloma cells. But how VEGFR2 activates VLA-4-mediated motility has remained unknown. We now report that VEGFR2 causes PKA-mediated phosphorylation of VLA-4 on S988, an event known to stimulate tumor metastasis while suppressing cytotoxic immune cells. A key partner in this mechanism is the chemokine receptor CXCR4, a well-known mediator of cell motility in response to gradients of the chemokine SDF-1 (also known as CXCL12). The entire machinery necessary to phosphorylate VLA-4, consisting of CXCR4, AC7 (also known as ADCY7) and PKA, is constitutively associated with VEGFR2 and is localized to the integrin by Sdc1. VEGFR2 carries out the novel phosphorylation of Y135 within the DRY microswitch of CXCR4, sequentially activating Gαiβγ, AC7 and PKA, which phosphorylates S988 on the integrin. This mechanism is blocked by a syndecan-mimetic peptide (SSTNVEGFR2), which, by preventing VEGFR2 linkage to VLA-4, arrests tumor cell migration that depends on VLA-4 phosphorylation and stimulates the LFA-1-mediated migration of cytotoxic leukocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oisun Jung
- Department of Human Oncology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA.,Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - DeannaLee M Beauvais
- Department of Human Oncology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Kristin M Adams
- Department of Human Oncology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Alan C Rapraeger
- Department of Human Oncology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA .,Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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13
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Mobilization of Leukemic Cells Using Plerixafor as Part of a Myeloablative Preparative Regimen for Patients with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia Undergoing Allografting: Assessment of Safety and Tolerability. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2019; 25:1158-1163. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Hwang HS, Han AR, Lee JY, Park GS, Min WS, Kim HJ. Enhanced Anti-Leukemic Effects through Induction of Immunomodulating Microenvironment by Blocking CXCR4 and PD-L1 in an AML Mouse Model. Immunol Invest 2018; 48:96-105. [PMID: 30204524 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2018.1497057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we found that dual therapy by the CXCR4 inhibitor Plerixafor and cytosine arabinoside (Ara-C) effectively eradicated leukemia cells and concurrently activated immune cells in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). To reveal the significance of programmed death-ligand1 (PD-L1) in AML and as a strategic approach, we investigated the anti-leukemic effect of a triple combinational therapy by utilizing Plerixafor and anti-PD-L1 in combination with chemotherapy in an AML mouse model. We examined leukemic myeloid blast cells in multiple organs after the successive treatment with Ara-C, Plerixafor, and anti-PD-L1. The results showed that noticeable benefits of triple combinational therapy for eradication of myeloid blast cells in vivo with prolonged survival rates. The frequencies of regulatory T cells (Tregs), monocytic-myeloid-derived suppressor cells (M-MDSCs), and granulocytic-myeloid-derived suppressor cells (G-MDSCs), in the peripheral blood of leukemic mice were consistently decreased, even when mice were sacrificed alive at D + 26 after completion of the triple combinational therapy, compared to the other subgroups. These findings imply that the modulation by the triple combinational therapy may lead to more efficient leukemic myeloid blast cell ablation through the suppression of Tregs or M-MDSCs and G-MDSCs in AML. Although Plerixafor and PD-L1 antagonist do not have a direct anti-leukemic role, our results provide some clues and guidelines to develop clinically therapeutic strategies for chemotherapy-resistant patients by the modulation of leukemic microenvironments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Sun Hwang
- a Leukemia Research Institute, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine , The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul , Korea
| | - A-Reum Han
- a Leukemia Research Institute, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine , The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul , Korea
| | - Ji Yoon Lee
- a Leukemia Research Institute, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine , The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul , Korea
| | - Gyeong Sin Park
- b Department of Pathology , College of Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul , Korea
| | - Woo-Sung Min
- a Leukemia Research Institute, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine , The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul , Korea.,c Department of Hematology , Seoul St. Mary's Hematology Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul , Korea
| | - Hee-Je Kim
- a Leukemia Research Institute, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine , The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul , Korea.,c Department of Hematology , Seoul St. Mary's Hematology Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul , Korea
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15
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Moore N, Moreno Gonzales M, Bonner K, Smith B, Park W, Stegall M. Impact of CXCR4/CXCL12 Blockade on Normal Plasma Cells In Vivo. Am J Transplant 2017; 17:1663-1669. [PMID: 28235241 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Plasma cells (PCs) are a major source of alloantibody in transplant patients and are resistant to current therapy. Because receptor-ligand interactions in stromal microenvironments play important roles in the localization, development, and survival of normal PCs, we hypothesized that interfering with CXCR4/CXCL12 interactions with plerixafor might cause PC depletion and enhance the efficacy of the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. PCs in mouse spleen, bone marrow, and peripheral blood demonstrated CXCR4 expression. We then treated with plerixafor in doses ranging from 240 μg/kg in a single dose to a 1-mg/kg daily dose for 10 days. CXCR4/CXCL12 blockade with plerixafor resulted in increased mobilization of PCs into the peripheral blood. Splenectomy completely abrogated this effect, suggesting that all plerixafor-mobilized cells were from the spleen. The total number of PCs in the spleen and marrow remained constant despite treatment with plerixafor. Bortezomib caused a reduction in PCs, but adding plerixafor did not increase killing. We conclude that CXCR4/CXCL12 interactions are important for the retention of a subpopulation of PCs in the spleen, but this interaction has minimal effect on PCs in the marrow. The lack of enhancement of bortezomib-mediated depletion suggests that factors other than CXCR4/CXCL12 interactions are responsible for drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Moore
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery and Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - K Bonner
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - B Smith
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - W Park
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery and Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - M Stegall
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery and Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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16
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Cho BS, Kim HJ, Konopleva M. Targeting the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in acute myeloid leukemia: from bench to bedside. Korean J Intern Med 2017; 32:248-257. [PMID: 28219003 PMCID: PMC5339474 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2016.244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The interactions between the cancerous cells of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment have been postulated to be important for resistance to chemotherapy and disease relapse in AML. The chemokine receptor CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) and its ligand, CXC motif ligand 12 (CXCL12), also known as stromal cell-derived factor 1α, are key mediators of this interaction. CXCL12 is produced by the BM microenvironment, binds and activates its cognate receptor CXCR4 on leukemic cells, facilitates leukemia cell trafficking and homing in the BM microenvironment, and keeps leukemic cells in close contact with the stromal cells and extracellular matrix that constitutively generate growth-promoting and anti-apoptotic signals. Indeed, a high level of CXCR4 expression on AML blasts is known to be associated with poor prognosis. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have revealed the safety and potential clinical utility of targeting the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in AML with different classes of drugs, including small molecules, peptides, and monoclonal antibodies. In this review, we describe recent evidence of targeting these leukemia-stroma interactions, focusing on the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis. Related early phase clinical studies will be also introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byung-Sik Cho
- Department of Hematology, Catholic Blood and Marrow Transplantation Center, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, Leukemia Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hee-Je Kim
- Department of Hematology, Catholic Blood and Marrow Transplantation Center, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, Leukemia Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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17
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Huang YP, Hung CM, Hsu YC, Zhong CY, Wang WR, Chang CC, Lee MJ. Suppression of Breast Cancer Cell Migration by Small Interfering RNA Delivered by Polyethylenimine-Functionalized Graphene Oxide. NANOSCALE RESEARCH LETTERS 2016; 11:247. [PMID: 27173676 PMCID: PMC4864886 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-016-1463-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The carbon-based nanomaterial graphene can be chemically modified to associate with various molecules such as chemicals and biomolecules and developed as novel carriers for drug and gene delivery. In this study, a nonviral gene transfection reagent was produced by functionalizing graphene oxide (GO) with a polycationic polymer, polyethylenimine (PEI), to increase the biocompatibility of GO and to transfect small interfering RNA (siRNA) against C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4), a biomarker associated with cancer metastasis, into invasive breast cancer cells. PEI-functionalized GO (PEI-GO) was a homogeneous aqueous solution that remained in suspension during storage at 4 °C for at least 6 months. The particle size of PEI-GO was 172 ± 4.58 and 188 ± 5.00 nm at 4 and 25 °C, respectively, and increased slightly to 262 ± 17.6 nm at 37 °C, but remained unaltered with time. Binding affinity of PEI-GO toward siRNA was assessed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), in which PEI-GO and siRNA were completely associated at a PEI-GO:siRNA weight ratio of 2:1 and above. The invasive breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231, was transfected with PEI-GO in complex with siRNAs against CXCR4 (siCXCR4). Suppression of the mRNA and protein expression of CXCR4 by the PEI-GO/siCXCR4 complex was confirmed by real-time PCR and western blot analysis. In addition, the metastatic potential of MDA-MB-231 cells was attenuated by the PEI-GO/siCXCR4 complex as demonstrated in wound healing assay. Our results suggest that PEI-GO is effective in the delivery of siRNA and may contribute to targeted gene therapy to suppress cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Pin Huang
- Department of Cosmetics and Fashion Styling, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Ming Hung
- Department of General Surgery, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chiang Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Innovative Research Center of Medicine, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Cai-Yan Zhong
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chang Jung Christian University, No. 1 Changda Rd., Gueiren District, Tainan City, 71101, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Rou Wang
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chang Jung Christian University, No. 1 Changda Rd., Gueiren District, Tainan City, 71101, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chang Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mon-Juan Lee
- Innovative Research Center of Medicine, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan.
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chang Jung Christian University, No. 1 Changda Rd., Gueiren District, Tainan City, 71101, Taiwan.
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Evidence that high-migration drug-surviving MOLT4 leukemia cells exhibit cancer stem cell-like properties. Int J Oncol 2016; 49:343-51. [PMID: 27210806 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2016.3526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Leukemia represents a spectrum of hematological malignancies threatening human health. Resistance to treatments and metastasis of leukemia are the main causes of death in patients. Leukemia stem cells (LSCs) are the initiating cells of leukemia as well as the main source of drug resistance, invasion and metastasis. Consequently, eliminating LSCs is a prerequisite to eradicate leukemia. Preliminary studies in our laboratory have shown that chemokines and their related receptors play an important role in the drug resistance and metastasis of leukemic cells. In this study, we obtained high migration drug-surviving (short term) MOLT4 cells (hMDSCs-MOLT4) with treatment of doxorubicin (DOX) after Transwell assay. Then we detected stem cell-associated molecular markers on hMDSCs-MOLT4 cells and the parental MOLT4 cells by FCM, QPCR, western blotting, H&E staining and immunohisto-chemistry experimental techniques in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, we explored its impact on drug resistance and tumor formation. Then we found that compared with the parental MOLT4 cells, the mRNA expression levels of stem cell-related factors Sox2, Oct4, C-myc, Klf4, Nanog, Bmi-1, CXCR4 are increased in hMDSCs-MOLT4 cells, together with the protein expression levels of Sox2, Oct4, Klf4, Nanog, CXCR4 and CD34. Our results indicated that hMDSCs-MOLT4 cells exhibited strong drug resistance and certain cancer stem cell-like characteristics. It is the first indication that the targeting stemness factors such as Sox2, Oct4, Klf4, Nanog and CXCR4 may represent plausible options for eliminating T-ALL stem-like cells. The present findings shed light on the relationship between drug-tolerant leukemic cells and cancer stem cells.
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Xie T, Ren HY, Lin HQ, Mao JP, Zhu T, Wang SD, Ye ZM. Sinomenine prevents metastasis of human osteosarcoma cells via S phase arrest and suppression of tumor-related neovascularization and osteolysis through the CXCR4-STAT3 pathway. Int J Oncol 2016; 48:2098-112. [PMID: 26983669 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2016.3416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant tumor of the bone. The long-term survivals continue to be unsatisfactory for patients with metastatic and recurrent disease. Metastasis is still a severe challenge in osteosarcoma treatment. Sinomenine, an alkaloid from traditional Chinese medicine, has been proved to possess potent antitumor and anti-invasion effect on various cancers. However, the effect of sinomenine on human osteosarcoma and the underlying mechanisms remains unknown. We report here that sinomenine inhibited proliferation by inducing S phase arrest and suppressing the clone formation. Significant inhibitory effects were found in invasion and metastasis in osteosarcoma, but little cytotoxicity was observed in tested concentrations. Exposure to sinomenine resulted in suppression of invasion and migration in osteosarcoma cells as well as tube formation ability in the human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and U2OS cells. Furthermore, it demonstrated that CXCR4 played a key role contributing to invasion in osteosarcoma which is considered to be a core target site in sinomenine treatment. Sinomenine inhibited invasion by suppressing CXCR4 and STAT3 phosphorylation then downregulating the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, RANKL, VEGF downstream. In addition, then RANKL-mediated bone destruction stimulated by osteoclastogenesis and VEGF-related neovascularization were restrained. Importantly, in vivo, sinomenine suppressed proliferation, osteoclastogenesis and bone destruction. Through these various comprehensive means, sinomenine inhibits metastasis in osteosarcoma. Taken together, our results revealed that sinomenine caused S phase arrest, inhibited invasion and metastasis via suppressing the CXCR4-STAT3 pathway and then osteoclastogenesis-mediated bone destruction and neovascularization in osteosarcoma. Sinomenine is therefore a promising adjuvant agent for metastasis control in osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Xie
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Hai-Yong Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Hai-Qing Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Jiaxing Hospital, Jiaxing, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Ping Mao
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Ting Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Sheng-Dong Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Zhao-Ming Ye
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
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