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Fu B, Ma H, Wang L, Guo Z, Wang F, Liu D, Zhang D. Embryonic Origins of Cancer: Insights from Double Homeobox 4 Regulation. Biomolecules 2025; 15:721. [PMID: 40427614 DOI: 10.3390/biom15050721] [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: 04/18/2025] [Revised: 05/12/2025] [Accepted: 05/13/2025] [Indexed: 05/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Embryogenesis and tumorigenesis share several key biological characteristics, such as rapid cell proliferation, high plasticity, and immune evasion. This similarity indicates that developmental pathways can be hijacked, leading to the formation of malignant cell states. With regard to this, cancer can be regarded as a stem cell disease. On the contrary, a fetus, in many ways, has similar characteristics to the "ideal tumor", such as immune evasion and rapid growth. Therefore, deciphering the molecular mechanisms beneath these phenomena will help us to understand the embryonic origins of cancer. This review discusses the relationship between embryogenesis and tumorigenesis, highlighting the potential roles played by DUX4. DUX4 is involved in the activation of the zygote genome and then facilitates the establishment of totipotency in pre-implantation embryos, whereas the misexpression of DUX4 is associated with different types of cancer. Taken together, this indicates that DUX4 performs analogous functions in these two processes and connects embryogenesis and tumorigenesis. Through examining DUX4, this review underscores the importance of developmental mechanisms in cancer biology, suggesting that the insights gained from studying embryonic processes may provide novel therapeutic strategies. As we continue to explore the complex relationship between cancer and embryogenesis, elucidating the role of DUX4 in linking these two processes will be critical for developing targeted therapies that exploit developmental pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Fu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China
- Key Laboratory of Combining Farming and Animal Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Hong Ma
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China
- Key Laboratory of Combining Farming and Animal Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China
- Key Laboratory of Combining Farming and Animal Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Zhenhua Guo
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China
- Key Laboratory of Combining Farming and Animal Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China
- Key Laboratory of Combining Farming and Animal Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Di Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China
- Key Laboratory of Combining Farming and Animal Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Dongjie Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China
- Key Laboratory of Combining Farming and Animal Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Harbin 150086, China
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Brown G. The Emerging Oncogenic Role of RARγ: From Stem Cell Regulation to a Potential Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:4357. [PMID: 40362593 PMCID: PMC12072783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26094357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2025] [Revised: 04/23/2025] [Accepted: 05/02/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid receptor (RAR) γ expression is restricted during adult haematopoiesis to haematopoietic stem cells and their immediate offspring and is required for their maintenance. From zebrafish studies, RARγ is selectively expressed by stem cells and agonism in the absence of exogenous all-trans retinoic acid blocked stem cell development. Recent findings for the expression of RARγ have revealed an oncogenic role in acute myeloid leukaemia and cholangiocarcinoma and colorectal, head and neck, hepatocellular, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, and renal cancer. Overexpression and agonism of RARγ enhanced cell proliferation for head and neck, hepatocellular, and prostate cancer. RARγ antagonism, pan-RAR antagonism, and RARγ downregulation led to cell growth which was often followed by cell death for acute myeloid leukaemia, astrocytoma, and cholangiocarcinoma as well as hepatocellular, primitive, neuroectodermal ovarian, and prostate cancer. Histological studies have associated high level RARγ expression with high-grade disease, metastasis, and a poor prognosis for cholangiocarcinoma and ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. RARγ is expressed by cancer stem cells and is a targetable drive of cancer cell growth and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Brown
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Infection, Inflammation, and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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3
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Adlakha YK, Chhabra R. The human microbiome: redefining cancer pathogenesis and therapy. Cancer Cell Int 2025; 25:165. [PMID: 40296128 PMCID: PMC12039184 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-025-03787-x] [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: 09/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025] Open
Abstract
The human microbiome has always been an important determinant of health and recently, its role has also been described in cancer. The altered microbiome could aid cancer progression, modulate chemoresistance and significantly alter drug efficacy. The broad implications of microbes in cancer have prompted researchers to investigate the microbe-cancer axis and identify whether modifying the microbiome could sensitize cancer cells for therapy and improve the survival outcome of cancer patients. The preclinical data has shown that enhancing the number of specific microbial species could restore the patients' response to cancer drugs and the microbial biomarkers may play a vital role in cancer diagnostics. The elucidation of detailed interactions of the human microbiota with cancer would not only help identify the novel drug targets but would also enhance the efficacy of existing drugs. The field exploring the emerging roles of microbiome in cancer is at a nascent stage and an in-depth scientific perspective on this topic would make it more accessible to a wider audience. In this review, we discuss the scientific evidence connecting the human microbiome to the origin and progression of cancer. We also discuss the potential mechanisms by which microbiota affects initiation of cancer, metastasis and chemoresistance. We highlight the significance of the microbiome in therapeutic outcome and evaluate the potential of microbe-based cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogita K Adlakha
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Sector-125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201303, India.
| | - Ravindresh Chhabra
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India.
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Pham DX, Hsu T. Tumor-initiating and metastasis-initiating cells of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. J Biomed Sci 2025; 32:17. [PMID: 39920694 PMCID: PMC11806631 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-024-01111-9] [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: 10/02/2024] [Accepted: 12/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2025] Open
Abstract
Clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common subtype of kidney malignancy. ccRCC is considered a major health concern worldwide because its numbers of incidences and deaths continue to rise and are predicted to continue rising in the foreseeable future. Therefore new strategy for early diagnosis and therapeutics for this disease is urgently needed. The discovery of cancer stem cells (CSCs) offers hope for early cancer detection and treatment. However, there has been no definitive identification of these cancer progenitors for ccRCC. A majority of ccRCC is characterized by the loss of the von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene function. Recent advances in genome analyses of ccRCC indicate that in ccRCC, tumor-initiating cells (TICs) and metastasis-initiating cells (MICs) are two distinct groups of progenitors. MICs result from various genetic changes during subclonal evolution, while TICs reside in the stem of the ccRCC phylogenetic tree of clonal development. TICs likely originate from kidney tubule progenitor cells bearing VHL gene inactivation, including chromatin 3p loss. Recent studies also point to the importance of microenvironment reconstituted by the VHL-deficient kidney tubule cells in promoting ccRCC initiation and progression. These understandings should help define the progenitors of ccRCC and facilitate early detection and treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinh-Xuan Pham
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Tien Hsu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC.
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University-Taiwan, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan, ROC.
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Elhinnawi MA, Boushra MI, Hussien DM, Hussein FH, Abdelmawgood IA. Mitochondria's Role in the Maintenance of Cancer Stem Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2025; 21:198-210. [PMID: 39422808 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10797-1] [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] [Accepted: 09/28/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the predominant form of liver cancer and is recognized as a major contributor to cancer-related mortality worldwide. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a tiny group of cancer cells that possess a significant ability to regenerate themselves, form tumors, and undergo differentiation. CSCs have a pivotal role in the initiation, spread, recurrence, and resistance to treatment of cancer. As a result, they are very susceptible to being targeted for therapeutic intervention. The potential to cure HCC may be achieved by efficiently targeting drugs that eradicate cancer stem cells. Mitochondria have a crucial function in granting drug resistance to cancer stem cells by means of mitochondrial metabolism, biogenesis, and dynamics. Dysfunction in mitochondrial metabolic processes, such as mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), calcium signaling, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, contributes to the initiation and progression of human malignancies, including HCC. ROS have both beneficial and detrimental effects depending on their concentration. Consequently, ROS have become a prominent subject in the study of the fundamental mechanisms of HCC. Furthermore, an imbalance in the process of creating new mitochondria is a characteristic feature of CSCs, and an increase in mitochondrial biogenesis is associated with the heightened resistance observed in CSCs. This article provides a detailed examination of the involvement of mitochondria in the preservation of CSCs, as well as the spread of HCC. A deeper understanding of how mitochondria participate in tumorigenesis and drug resistance could result in the discovery of novel cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manar A Elhinnawi
- Experimental Pathology, Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Hormones Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
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Requena D, Medico JA, Soto-Ugaldi LF, Shirani M, Saltsman JA, Torbenson MS, Coffino P, Simon SM. Liver cancer multiomics reveals diverse protein kinase A disruptions convergently produce fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma. Nat Commun 2024; 15:10887. [PMID: 39738196 PMCID: PMC11685927 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55238-2] [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: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 12/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/01/2025] Open
Abstract
Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma (FLC) is a rare liver cancer characterized by a fusion oncokinase of the genes DNAJB1 and PRKACA, the catalytic subunit of protein kinase A (PKA). A few FLC-like tumors have been reported showing other alterations involving PKA. To better understand FLC pathogenesis and the relationships among FLC, FLC-like, and other liver tumors, we performed a massive multi-omics analysis. RNA-seq data of 1412 liver tumors from FLC, hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatoblastoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma are analyzed, obtaining transcriptomic signatures unrestricted by experimental processing methods. These signatures reveal which dysregulations are unique to specific tumors and which are common to all liver cancers. Moreover, the transcriptomic FLC signature identifies a unifying phenotype for all FLC tumors regardless of how PKA was activated. We study this signature at multi-omics and single-cell levels in the first spatial transcriptomic characterization of FLC, identifying the contribution of tumor, normal, stromal, and infiltrating immune cells. Additionally, we study FLC metastases, finding small differences from the primary tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Requena
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jack A Medico
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Luis F Soto-Ugaldi
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mahsa Shirani
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - James A Saltsman
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Philip Coffino
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sanford M Simon
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
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Kang B, Jia Z, Dong Y, Li W, Zhang W. Recombinant human annexin A5 accelerates diabetic wounds healing by regulating skin inflammation. Regen Ther 2024; 27:342-353. [PMID: 38645281 PMCID: PMC11031805 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2024.03.013] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background One of the key obstacles to the healing of diabetic wound is the persistence of active inflammation. We previously demonstrated the potential of cell-free fat extract (CEFFE) to promote the healing of diabetic wounds, and annexin A5 (A5) is a crucial anti-inflammatory protein within CEFFE. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of A5 in diabetic wounds. Methods A5 was loaded into GelMA hydrogels and applied to skin wounds of diabetic mice in vivo. The diabetic wounds with the treatment of GelMA-A5 were observed for 14 days and evaluated by histological analysis. Accessment of inflammation regulation were conducted through anti-CD68 staining, anti-CD86 and anti-CD206 staining, and qRT-PCR of wound tissue. In presence of A5, macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro, and detected through qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, and immunocytofluorescence staining. Besides, epithelial cells were co-cultured with A5 for epithelialization regulation by CCK-8 assay and cell migration assay. Results A5 could promote diabetic wound healing and regulate inflammations by promoting the transition of macrophages from M1 to M2 phenotype. In vitro experiments demonstrated that A5 exerted a significant effect on reducing pro-inflammatory factors and inhibiting the polarization of macrophages from M0 toward M1 phenotype. A5 significantly promoted the migration of epithelial cells. Conclusion Annexin A5 has a significant impact on the regulation of macrophage inflammation and promotion of epithelialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijun Kang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Zhuoxuan Jia
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yushan Dong
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, National Tissue Engineering Center of China, 639 ZhiZaoJu Road, Shanghai 200011, China
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Sipos F, Műzes G. Interconnection of CD133 Stem Cell Marker with Autophagy and Apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:11201. [PMID: 39456981 PMCID: PMC11508732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms252011201] [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: 09/21/2024] [Revised: 10/09/2024] [Accepted: 10/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
CD133 protein expression is observable in differentiated cells, stem cells, and progenitor cells within normal tissues, as well as in tumor tissues, including colorectal cancer cells. The CD133 protein is the predominant cell surface marker utilized to detect cancer cells exhibiting stem cell-like characteristics. CD133 alters common abnormal processes in colorectal cancer, such as the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. Autophagy is a cellular self-digestion mechanism that preserves the intracellular milieu and plays a dual regulatory role in cancer. In cancer cells, apoptosis is a critical cell death mechanism that can impede cancer progression. CD133 can modulate autophagy and apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells via several signaling pathways; hence, it is involved in the regulation of these intricate processes. This can be an explanation for why CD133 expression is associated with enhanced cellular self-renewal, migration, invasion, and survival under stress conditions in colorectal cancer. The purpose of this review article is to explain the complex relationship between the CD133 protein, apoptosis, and autophagy. We also want to highlight the possible ways that CD133-mediated autophagy may affect the apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells. Targeting the aforementioned mechanisms may have a significant therapeutic role in eliminating CD133-positive stem cell-phenotype colorectal cancer cells, which can be responsible for tumor recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferenc Sipos
- Immunology Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Györgyi Műzes
- Immunology Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
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Satoh K. A new mechanism of cancer initiation that involves the transformation of hepatocytes into preneoplastic single hepatocytes and minifoci positive for glutathione S-transferase P-form (GST-P) in rat livers: 3D analysis using a vibratome. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e70165. [PMID: 39318029 PMCID: PMC11422180 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.70165] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer initiation has long been "unknowable" in biology and medicine. In 1987, however, Moore and our research group observed single hepatocytes and minifoci that were strongly positive for glutathione S-transferase P-form (GST-P) in the rat liver as early as 2 to 3 days after initiation by diethylnitrosamine prior to the induction of GST-P+ foci and nodules. The induction of GST-P+ single hepatocytes, precursors of GST-P+ foci and nodules, was considered genetic. But, the details of the induction mechanism have remained unclear despite various examinations over a long period. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats (aged 6 weeks) were fed a basal diet containing either benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC, 0.5% by wt) or 2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF, 0.04%) ad libitum for appropriate time intervals. All animals were anesthetized and euthanized. The livers obtained were excised, cut into 3- to 4-mm-thick slices and fixed in cold acetone at 4 °C. The liver specimens were then sliced into 25-µm-thick sections in PBS using an automated microtome (Vibratome 1500 Sectioning System, Vibratome Products, NY, USA). Immunocytochemical staining was performed in free solution, and the results were examined via digital light microscopy (Coolscope, Nikon, Tokyo). RESULTS 3D analysis using a vibratome showed that GST-P is rapidly excreted into the bile of the liver of animals in response to strong carcinogenic stress caused by promoters or initiators. "Rapid biliary excretion of GST-P" was widely and commonly observed in all hepatocytes, GST-P+ single hepatocytes, minifoci, foci and nodules under appropriate conditions. Surprisingly, on the basis of these key findings, a new mechanism of cancer initiation involving the transformation of hepatocytes into GST-P+ single hepatocytes and minifoci in animal livers was identified. In addition, the initiation process was determined to be nongenetic because mutation is an invisible rare event. CONCLUSIONS This short review describes several details about breakthrough findings on cancer initiation in rat livers, the application of 3D analysis to other cancers and the importance in the genetic analysis in malignant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimihiko Satoh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hirosaki University, Hirosaki, Japan
- Department of Medical Welfare, Akita University of Nursing and Welfare, Odate, Japan
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Vidaurre V, Song A, Li T, Ku WL, Zhao K, Qian J, Chen X. The Drosophila histone methyltransferase SET1 coordinates multiple signaling pathways in regulating male germline stem cell maintenance and differentiation. Development 2024; 151:dev202729. [PMID: 39007366 PMCID: PMC11369688 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202729] [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: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Many tissue-specific adult stem cell lineages maintain a balance between proliferation and differentiation. Here, we study how the H3K4me3 methyltransferase Set1 regulates early-stage male germ cells in Drosophila. Early-stage germline-specific knockdown of Set1 results in temporally progressive defects, arising as germ cell loss and developing into overpopulated early-stage germ cells. These germline defects also impact the niche architecture and cyst stem cell lineage non-cell-autonomously. Additionally, wild-type Set1, but not the catalytically inactive Set1, rescues the Set1 knockdown phenotypes, highlighting the functional importance of the methyltransferase activity of Set1. Further, RNA-sequencing experiments reveal key signaling pathway components, such as the JAK-STAT pathway gene Stat92E and the BMP pathway gene Mad, which are upregulated upon Set1 knockdown. Genetic interaction assays support the functional relationships between Set1 and JAK-STAT or BMP pathways, as both Stat92E and Mad mutations suppress the Set1 knockdown phenotypes. These findings enhance our understanding of the balance between proliferation and differentiation in an adult stem cell lineage. The phenotype of germ cell loss followed by over-proliferation when inhibiting a histone methyltransferase also raises concerns about using their inhibitors in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velinda Vidaurre
- Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Annabelle Song
- Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Taibo Li
- Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Wai Lim Ku
- Laboratory of Epigenome Biology, Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Keji Zhao
- Laboratory of Epigenome Biology, Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Jiang Qian
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, 4000 Jones Bridge Road, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA
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Garcia GL, Orellana T, Gorecki G, Frisbie LG, Baruwal R, Goldfield E, Beddows I, MacFawn IP, Britt AK, Hale MM, Shen H, Buckanovich R, Finkel T, Drapkin R, Soong TR, Bruno TC, Atiya HI, Coffman L. Stromal mediated DNA damage promotes high grade serous ovarian cancer initiation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.23.595550. [PMID: 38853994 PMCID: PMC11160569 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.23.595550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The fundamental steps in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) initiation are unclear, thus providing critical barriers to the development of prevention or early detection strategies for this deadly disease. Increasing evidence demonstrates most HGSOC starts in the fallopian tube epithelium (FTE). Current models propose HGSOC initiates when FTE cells acquire increasing numbers of mutations allowing cells to evolve into serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC) precursors and then to full blown cancer. Here we report that epigenetically altered mesenchymal stem cells (termed high risk MSC-hrMSCs) can be detected prior to the formation of ovarian cancer precursor lesions. These hrMSCs drive DNA damage in the form of DNA double strand breaks in FTE cells while also promoting the survival of FTE cells in the face of DNA damage. Indicating the hrMSC may actually drive cancer initiation, we find hrMSCs induce full malignant transformation of otherwise healthy, primary FTE resulting in metastatic cancer in vivo . Further supporting a role for hrMSCs in cancer initiation in humans, we demonstrate that hrMSCs are highly enriched in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and increase with age. Combined these findings indicate that hrMSCs may incite ovarian cancer initiation. These findings have important implications for ovarian cancer detection and prevention.
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Chauhan A, Gangopadhyay S, Sharma V, Singh S, Koshta K, Singh D, Ansari KM, Srivastava V. Prenatal arsenic exposure alters keratinocyte stem cell fate through persistent activation of IGF2R-MAPK cascade leading to aggravated skin carcinogenesis in mice offspring. Mol Carcinog 2024; 63:817-833. [PMID: 38299738 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23690] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Chronic exposure to arsenic (As) promotes skin carcinogenesis in humans and potentially disturbs resident stem cell dynamics, particularly during maternal and early life exposure. In the present study, we demonstrate how only prenatal arsenic exposure disturbs keratinocyte stem cell (KSC) conditioning using a BALB/c mice model. Prenatal As exposure alters the normal stemness (CD34, KRT5), differentiation (Involucrin), and proliferation (PCNA) program in skin of offspring with progression of age as observed at 2, 10, and 18 weeks. Primary KSCs isolated from exposed animal at Day-2 showed increased survival (Bax:Bcl-xL, TUNEL assay), proliferation (BrdU), and differentiation (KRT5, Involucrin) potential through the activation of pro-carcinogenic IGF2R-MAPK cascade (IGF2R-G(α)q-MEK1-ERK1/2). This was associated with reduced enrichment of histone H3K27me3 and its methylase, EZH2 along with increased binding of demethylase, KDM6A at Igf2r promoter. Altered KSCs conditioning through disturbed Igf2r imprint contributed to impaired proliferation and differentiation and an aggravated tumor response in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anchal Chauhan
- Systems Toxicology Group, FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Siddhartha Gangopadhyay
- Systems Toxicology Group, FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Vineeta Sharma
- Systems Toxicology Group, FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow, India
| | - Sukhveer Singh
- Systems Toxicology Group, FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Kavita Koshta
- Systems Toxicology Group, FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Dhirendra Singh
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
- Animal Facility, ASSIST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow, India
| | - Kausar M Ansari
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
- Food Toxicology Laboratory, FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow, India
| | - Vikas Srivastava
- Systems Toxicology Group, FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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Martinez P, Baghli I, Gourjon G, Seyfried TN. Mitochondrial-Stem Cell Connection: Providing Additional Explanations for Understanding Cancer. Metabolites 2024; 14:229. [PMID: 38668357 PMCID: PMC11051897 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14040229] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The cancer paradigm is generally based on the somatic mutation model, asserting that cancer is a disease of genetic origin. The mitochondrial-stem cell connection (MSCC) proposes that tumorigenesis may result from an alteration of the mitochondria, specifically a chronic oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) insufficiency in stem cells, which forms cancer stem cells (CSCs) and leads to malignancy. Reviewed evidence suggests that the MSCC could provide a comprehensive understanding of all the different stages of cancer. The metabolism of cancer cells is altered (OxPhos insufficiency) and must be compensated by using the glycolysis and the glutaminolysis pathways, which are essential to their growth. The altered mitochondria regulate the tumor microenvironment, which is also necessary for cancer evolution. Therefore, the MSCC could help improve our understanding of tumorigenesis, metastases, the efficiency of standard treatments, and relapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierrick Martinez
- Scientific and Osteopathic Research Department, Institut de Formation en Ostéopathie du Grand Avignon, 84140 Montfavet, France;
| | - Ilyes Baghli
- International Society for Orthomolecular Medicine, Toronto, ON M4B 3M9, Canada;
| | - Géraud Gourjon
- Scientific and Osteopathic Research Department, Institut de Formation en Ostéopathie du Grand Avignon, 84140 Montfavet, France;
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14
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Waldum H, Slupphaug G. Correctly identifying the cells of origin is essential for tailoring treatment and understanding the emergence of cancer stem cells and late metastases. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1369907. [PMID: 38660133 PMCID: PMC11040596 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1369907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignancy manifests itself by deregulated growth and the ability to invade surrounding tissues or metastasize to other organs. These properties are due to genetic and/or epigenetic changes, most often mutations. Many aspects of carcinogenesis are known, but the cell of origin has been insufficiently focused on, which is unfortunate since the regulation of its growth is essential to understand the carcinogenic process and guide treatment. Similarly, the concept of cancer stem cells as cells having the ability to stop proliferation and rest in a state of dormancy and being resistant to cytotoxic drugs before "waking up" and become a highly malignant tumor recurrence, is not fully understood. Some tumors may recur after decades, a phenomenon probably also connected to cancer stem cells. The present review shows that many of these questions are related to the cell of origin as differentiated cells being long-term stimulated to proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helge Waldum
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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15
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Marrone L, Romano S, Malasomma C, Di Giacomo V, Cerullo A, Abate R, Vecchione MA, Fratantonio D, Romano MF. Metabolic vulnerability of cancer stem cells and their niche. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1375993. [PMID: 38659591 PMCID: PMC11039812 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1375993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) are the leading cause of the failure of anti-tumor treatments. These aggressive cancer cells are preserved and sustained by adjacent cells forming a specialized microenvironment, termed niche, among which tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are critical players. The cycle of tricarboxylic acids, fatty acid oxidation path, and electron transport chain have been proven to play central roles in the development and maintenance of CSCs and TAMs. By improving their oxidative metabolism, cancer cells are able to extract more energy from nutrients, which allows them to survive in nutritionally defective environments. Because mitochondria are crucial bioenergetic hubs and sites of these metabolic pathways, major hopes are posed for drugs targeting mitochondria. A wide range of medications targeting mitochondria, electron transport chain complexes, or oxidative enzymes are currently investigated in phase 1 and phase 2 clinical trials against hard-to-treat tumors. This review article aims to highlight recent literature on the metabolic adaptations of CSCs and their supporting macrophages. A focus is provided on the resistance and dormancy behaviors that give CSCs a selection advantage and quiescence capacity in particularly hostile microenvironments and the role of TAMs in supporting these attitudes. The article also describes medicaments that have demonstrated a robust ability to disrupt core oxidative metabolism in preclinical cancer studies and are currently being tested in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Marrone
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Romano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Malasomma
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Di Giacomo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Cerullo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosetta Abate
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Deborah Fratantonio
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, LUM University Giuseppe Degennaro, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Fiammetta Romano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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16
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Fakhri S, Moradi SZ, Abbaszadeh F, Faraji F, Amirian R, Sinha D, McMahon EG, Bishayee A. Targeting the key players of phenotypic plasticity in cancer cells by phytochemicals. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:261-292. [PMID: 38169011 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10161-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Plasticity of phenotypic traits refers to an organism's ability to change in response to environmental stimuli. As a result, the response may alter an organism's physiological state, morphology, behavior, and phenotype. Phenotypic plasticity in cancer cells describes the considerable ability of cancer cells to transform phenotypes through non-genetic molecular signaling activities that promote therapy evasion and tumor metastasis via amplifying cancer heterogeneity. As a result of metastable phenotypic state transitions, cancer cells can tolerate chemotherapy or develop transient adaptive resistance. Therefore, new findings have paved the road in identifying factors and agents that inhibit or suppress phenotypic plasticity. It has also investigated novel multitargeted agents that may promise new effective strategies in cancer treatment. Despite the efficiency of conventional chemotherapeutic agents, drug toxicity, development of resistance, and high-cost limit their use in cancer therapy. Recent research has shown that small molecules derived from natural sources are capable of suppressing cancer by focusing on the plasticity of phenotypic responses. This systematic, comprehensive, and critical review analyzes the current state of knowledge regarding the ability of phytocompounds to target phenotypic plasticity at both preclinical and clinical levels. Current challenges/pitfalls, limitations, and future perspectives are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Fakhri
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 6734667149, Iran
| | - Seyed Zachariah Moradi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 6734667149, Iran
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 6734667149, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Abbaszadeh
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farahnaz Faraji
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, 6517838678, Iran
| | - Roshanak Amirian
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 6734667149, Iran
| | - Dona Sinha
- Department of Receptor Biology and Tumor Metastasis, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, 700 026, West Bengal, India
| | - Emily G McMahon
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, 34211, USA
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, 34211, USA.
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17
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Vidaurre V, Song A, Li T, Ku WL, Zhao K, Qian J, Chen X. The Drosophila histone methyl-transferase SET1 coordinates multiple signaling pathways in regulating male germline stem cell maintenance and differentiation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.14.580277. [PMID: 38405894 PMCID: PMC10888844 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.14.580277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Many cell types come from tissue-specific adult stem cells that maintain the balance between proliferation and differentiation. Here, we study how the H3K4me3 methyltransferase, Set1, regulates early-stage male germ cell proliferation and differentiation in Drosophila. Early-stage germline-specific knockdown of set1 results in a temporally progressed defects, arising as germ cell loss and developing to overpopulated early-stage germ cells. These germline defects also impact the niche architecture and cyst stem cell lineage in a non-cell-autonomous manner. Additionally, wild-type Set1, but not the catalytically inactive Set1, could rescue the set1 knockdown phenotypes, highlighting the functional importance of the methyl-transferase activity of the Set1 enzyme. Further, RNA-seq experiments reveal key signaling pathway components, such as the JAK-STAT pathway gene stat92E and the BMP pathway gene mad, that are upregulated upon set1 knockdown. Genetic interaction assays support the functional relationships between set1 and JAK-STAT or BMP pathways, as mutations of both the stat92E and mad genes suppress the set1 knockdown phenotypes. These findings enhance our understanding of the balance between proliferation and differentiation in an adult stem cell lineage. The germ cell loss followed by over-proliferation phenotypes when inhibiting a histone methyl-transferase raise concerns about using their inhibitors in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velinda Vidaurre
- Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Annabelle Song
- Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Taibo Li
- Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Wai Lim Ku
- Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Keji Zhao
- Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jiang Qian
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Xin Chen
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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18
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Stanger BZ, Wahl GM. Cancer as a Disease of Development Gone Awry. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 19:397-421. [PMID: 37832945 PMCID: PMC11486542 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathmechdis-031621-025610] [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] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
In the 160 years since Rudolf Virchow first postulated that neoplasia arises by the same law that regulates embryonic development, scientists have come to recognize the striking overlap between the molecular and cellular programs used by cancers and embryos. Advances in cancer biology and molecular techniques have further highlighted the similarities between carcinogenesis and embryogenesis, where cellular growth, differentiation, motility, and intercellular cross talk are mediated by common drivers and regulatory networks. This review highlights the many connections linking cancer biology and developmental biology to provide a deeper understanding of how a tissue's developmental history may both enable and constrain cancer cell evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Z Stanger
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA;
| | - Geoffrey M Wahl
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA;
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19
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Sarker DB, Xue Y, Mahmud F, Jocelyn JA, Sang QXA. Interconversion of Cancer Cells and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Cells 2024; 13:125. [PMID: 38247819 PMCID: PMC10814385 DOI: 10.3390/cells13020125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells, especially cancer stem cells (CSCs), share many molecular features with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that enable the derivation of induced pluripotent cancer cells by reprogramming malignant cells. Conversely, normal iPSCs can be converted into cancer stem-like cells with the help of tumor microenvironment components and genetic manipulation. These CSC models can be utilized in oncogenic initiation and progression studies, understanding drug resistance, and developing novel therapeutic strategies. This review summarizes the role of pluripotency factors in the stemness, tumorigenicity, and therapeutic resistance of cancer cells. Different methods to obtain iPSC-derived CSC models are described with an emphasis on exposure-based approaches. Culture in cancer cell-conditioned media or cocultures with cancer cells can convert normal iPSCs into cancer stem-like cells, aiding the examination of processes of oncogenesis. We further explored the potential of reprogramming cancer cells into cancer-iPSCs for mechanistic studies and cancer dependencies. The contributions of genetic, epigenetic, and tumor microenvironment factors can be evaluated using these models. Overall, integrating iPSC technology into cancer stem cell research holds significant promise for advancing our knowledge of cancer biology and accelerating the development of innovative and tailored therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drishty B. Sarker
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4390, USA; (D.B.S.); (Y.X.); (F.M.); (J.A.J.)
| | - Yu Xue
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4390, USA; (D.B.S.); (Y.X.); (F.M.); (J.A.J.)
| | - Faiza Mahmud
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4390, USA; (D.B.S.); (Y.X.); (F.M.); (J.A.J.)
| | - Jonathan A. Jocelyn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4390, USA; (D.B.S.); (Y.X.); (F.M.); (J.A.J.)
| | - Qing-Xiang Amy Sang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4390, USA; (D.B.S.); (Y.X.); (F.M.); (J.A.J.)
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4380, USA
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20
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Klement RJ. Cancer as a global health crisis with deep evolutionary roots. GLOBAL TRANSITIONS 2024; 6:45-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.glt.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2025]
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21
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Khamooshi R, Salimi A, Halabian R, Saeedi P. Apoptotic effects of mesenchymal stem cells' conditioned medium on colorectal cancer cell lines. Tissue Cell 2023; 85:102247. [PMID: 37865038 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102247] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Multipotent Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have vigorous immunomodulatory activity, apoptotic effects, and the capacity to migrate to inflammatory and tumor sites. This study focuses on the apoptotic effects of MSCs conditioned medium (CM) on colorectal cancer cell lines. MSCs were preconditioned with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells. The conditioned medium (LPS-CM) from the preconditioned cells was isolated and used to treat colorectal cancer cells (HT29 and SW48). The survival and proliferation of cancer cells were assessed using Trypan blue staining and MTT assay. The apoptosis rate was evaluated through flow cytometry analysis and caspase-3 activity. Additionally, Real-Time PCR was used to measure the mRNA level of apoptotic and anti-apoptotic factors, including bcl2, bax, and p53 genes. The results showed that LPS-CM significantly increased (p < 0.001) the percentage of apoptosis in the SW48 and HT29 cell lines. Caspase-3 activity significantly increased (p < 0.001) in these cell lines after treatment with LPS-CM. The mRNA level of bcl2 was significantly decreased (p < 0.001), while bax and p53 genes were significantly overexpressed (p < 0.001) in the LPS-CM treated cell lines. Notably, the mRNA level of bcl2 and bax genes was significantly altered at a higher concentration of LPS-CM. In conclusion, the conditioned medium from LPS-preconditioned MSCs can effectively induce apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells. This finding suggests that LPS-CM could be a potential strategy for inhibiting the proliferation and progression of colorectal cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roya Khamooshi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Salimi
- Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Raheleh Halabian
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences Tehran, Iran.
| | - Pardis Saeedi
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences Tehran, Iran
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22
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Koukourakis IM, Platoni K, Kouloulias V, Arelaki S, Zygogianni A. Prostate Cancer Stem Cells: Biology and Treatment Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14890. [PMID: 37834336 PMCID: PMC10573523 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914890] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cells differentiate into mature organ/tissue-specific cells at a steady pace under normal conditions, but their growth can be accelerated during the process of tissue healing or in the context of certain diseases. It is postulated that the proliferation and growth of carcinomas are sustained by the presence of a vital cellular compartment resembling stem cells residing in normal tissues: 'stem-like cancer cells' or cancer stem cells (CSCs). Mutations in prostate stem cells can lead to the formation of prostate cancer. Prostate CSCs (PCSCs) have been identified and partially characterized. These express surface markers include CD44, CD133, integrin α2β1, and pluripotency factors like OCT4, NANOG, and SOX2. Several signaling pathways are also over-activated, including Notch, PTEN/Akt/PI3K, RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK and HH. Moreover, PCSCs appear to induce resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, while their presence has been linked to aggressive cancer behavior and higher relapse rates. The development of treatment policies to target PCSCs in tumors is appealing as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, through cancer cell killing, trigger tumor repopulation via activated stem cells. Thus, blocking this reactive stem cell mobilization may facilitate a positive outcome through cytotoxic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis M. Koukourakis
- Radiation Oncology Unit, 1st Department of Radiology, Aretaieion Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 11528 Athens, Greece; (I.M.K.); (A.Z.)
| | - Kalliopi Platoni
- Medical Physics Unit, 2nd Department of Radiology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 12462 Athens, Greece
| | - Vassilis Kouloulias
- Radiation Oncology Unit, 2nd Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stella Arelaki
- Translational Functional Cancer Genomics, National Center for Tumor Diseases, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Anna Zygogianni
- Radiation Oncology Unit, 1st Department of Radiology, Aretaieion Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 11528 Athens, Greece; (I.M.K.); (A.Z.)
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23
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Yu W, Gargett T, Du Z. A Poisson distribution-based general model of cancer rates and a cancer risk-dependent theory of aging. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:8537-8551. [PMID: 37659107 PMCID: PMC10522393 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205016] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
This article presents a formula for modeling the lifetime incidence of cancer in humans. The formula utilizes a Poisson distribution-based "np" model to predict cancer incidence, with "n" representing the effective number of cell turnover and "p" representing the probability of single-cell transformation. The model accurately predicts the observed incidence of cancer in humans when a reduction in cell turnover due to aging is taken into account. The model also suggests that cancer development is ultimately inevitable. The article proposes a theory of aging based on this concept, called the "np" theory. According to this theory, an organism maintains its order by balancing cellular entropy through continuous proliferation. However, cellular "information entropy" in the form of accumulated DNA mutations increases irreversibly over time, restricting the total number of cells an organism can generate throughout its lifetime. When cell division slows down and fails to compensate for the increased entropy in the system, aging occurs. Essentially, aging is the phenomenon of running out of predetermined cell resources. Different species have evolved separate strategies to utilize their limited cell resources throughout their life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Yu
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Tessa Gargett
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Zhenglong Du
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Science, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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24
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Waldum H, Fossmark R. Inflammation and Digestive Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13503. [PMID: 37686307 PMCID: PMC10487643 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation is linked to carcinogenesis, particularly in the digestive organs, i.e., the stomach, colon, and liver. The mechanism of this effect has, however, only partly been focused on. In this review, we focus on different forms of chronic hepatitis, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and chronic gastritis, conditions predisposing individuals to the development of malignancy. Chronic inflammation may cause malignancy because (1) the cause of the chronic inflammation is itself genotoxic, (2) substances released from the inflammatory cells may be genotoxic, (3) the cell death induced by the inflammation induces a compensatory increase in proliferation with an inherent risk of mutation, (4) changes in cell composition due to inflammation may modify function, resulting in hormonal disturbances affecting cellular proliferation. The present review focuses on chronic gastritis (Helicobacter pylori or autoimmune type) since all four mechanisms may be relevant to this condition. Genotoxicity due to the hepatitis B virus is an important factor in hepatocellular cancer and viral infection can similarly be central in the etiology and malignancy of inflammatory bowel diseases. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is the dominating cause of chronic gastritis and has not been shown to be genotoxic, so its carcinogenic effect is most probably due to the induction of atrophic oxyntic gastritis leading to hypergastrinemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helge Waldum
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7030 Trondheim, Norway;
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25
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Abd GM, Laird MC, Ku JC, Li Y. Hypoxia-induced cancer cell reprogramming: a review on how cancer stem cells arise. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1227884. [PMID: 37614497 PMCID: PMC10442830 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1227884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are a subset of cells within the tumor that possess the ability to self-renew as well as differentiate into different cancer cell lineages. The exact mechanisms by which cancer stem cells arise is still not completely understood. However, current research suggests that cancer stem cells may originate from normal stem cells that have undergone genetic mutations or epigenetic changes. A more recent discovery is the dedifferentiation of cancer cells to stem-like cells. These stem-like cells have been found to express and even upregulate induced pluripotent stem cell markers known as Yamanaka factors. Here we discuss developments in how cancer stem cells arise and consider how environmental factors, such as hypoxia, plays a key role in promoting the progression of cancer stem cells and metastasis. Understanding the mechanisms that give rise to these cells could have important implications for the development of new strategies in cancer treatments and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve M. Abd
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Biomedical. Engineering, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Madison C. Laird
- Medical Students, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Jennifer C. Ku
- Medical Students, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Biomedical. Engineering, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
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26
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Ponomarev AS, Gilazieva ZE, Solovyova VV, Rizvanov AA. Molecular Mechanisms of Tumor Cell Stemness Modulation during Formation of Spheroids. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2023; 88:979-994. [PMID: 37751868 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297923070106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), their properties and interaction with microenvironment are of interest in modern medicine and biology. There are many studies on the emergence of CSCs and their involvement in tumor pathogenesis. The most important property inherent to CSCs is their stemness. Stemness combines ability of the cell to maintain its pluripotency, give rise to differentiated cells, and interact with environment to maintain a balance between dormancy, proliferation, and regeneration. While adult stem cells exhibit these properties by participating in tissue homeostasis, CSCs behave as their malignant equivalents. High tumor resistance to therapy, ability to differentiate, activate angiogenesis and metastasis arise precisely due to the stemness of CSCs. These cells can be used as a target for therapy of different types of cancer. Laboratory models are needed to study cancer biology and find new therapeutic strategies. A promising direction is three-dimensional tumor models or spheroids. Such models exhibit properties resembling stemness in a natural tumor. By modifying spheroids, it becomes possible to investigate the effect of therapy on CSCs, thus contributing to the development of anti-tumor drug test systems. The review examines the niche of CSCs, the possibility of their study using three-dimensional spheroids, and existing markers for assessing stemness of CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksei S Ponomarev
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, 420008, Russia
| | - Zarema E Gilazieva
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, 420008, Russia
| | - Valeriya V Solovyova
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, 420008, Russia
| | - Albert A Rizvanov
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, 420008, Russia.
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Luo Y, Xiao JH. Inflammatory auxo-action in the stem cell division theory of cancer. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15444. [PMID: 37309372 PMCID: PMC10257902 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15444] [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: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute inflammation is a beneficial response to the changes caused by pathogens or injuries that can eliminate the source of damage and restore homeostasis in damaged tissues. However, chronic inflammation causes malignant transformation and carcinogenic effects of cells through continuous exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines and activation of inflammatory signaling pathways. According to the theory of stem cell division, the essential properties of stem cells, including long life span and self-renewal, make them vulnerable to accumulating genetic changes that can lead to cancer. Inflammation drives quiescent stem cells to enter the cell cycle and perform tissue repair functions. However, as cancer likely originates from DNA mutations that accumulate over time via normal stem cell division, inflammation may promote cancer development, even before the stem cells become cancerous. Numerous studies have reported that the mechanisms of inflammation in cancer formation and metastasis are diverse and complex; however, few studies have reviewed how inflammation affects cancer formation from the stem cell source. Based on the stem cell division theory of cancer, this review summarizes how inflammation affects normal stem cells, cancer stem cells, and cancer cells. We conclude that chronic inflammation leads to persistent stem cells activation, which can accumulate DNA damage and ultimately promote cancer. Additionally, inflammation not only facilitates the progression of stem cells into cancer cells, but also plays a positive role in cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Luo
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- Zunyi Municipal Key Laboratory of Medicinal Biotechnology & Guizhou Provincial Research Center for Translational Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jian-Hui Xiao
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- Zunyi Municipal Key Laboratory of Medicinal Biotechnology & Guizhou Provincial Research Center for Translational Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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28
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Tu SM, Aydin AM, Maraboyina S, Chen Z, Singh S, Gokden N, Langford T. Stem Cell Origin of Cancer: Implications of Oncogenesis Recapitulating Embryogenesis in Cancer Care. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092516. [PMID: 37173982 PMCID: PMC10177345 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
From this perspective, we wonder about the clinical implications of oncology recapturing ontogeny in the contexts of neoantigens, tumor biomarkers, and cancer targets. We ponder about the biological ramifications of finding remnants of mini-organs and residuals of tiny embryos in some tumors. We reminisce about classical experiments showing that the embryonic microenvironment possesses antitumorigenic properties. Ironically, a stem-ness niche-in the wrong place at the wrong time-is also an onco-niche. We marvel at the paradox of TGF-beta both as a tumor suppressor and a tumor promoter. We query about the dualism of EMT as a stem-ness trait engaged in both normal development and abnormal disease states, including various cancers. It is uncanny that during fetal development, proto-oncogenes wax, while tumor-suppressor genes wane. Similarly, during cancer development, proto-oncogenes awaken, while tumor-suppressor genes slumber. Importantly, targeting stem-like pathways has therapeutic implications because stem-ness may be the true driver, if not engine, of the malignant process. Furthermore, anti-stem-like activity elicits anti-cancer effects for a variety of cancers because stem-ness features may be a universal property of cancer. When a fetus survives and thrives despite immune surveillance and all the restraints of nature and the constraints of its niche, it is a perfect baby. Similarly, when a neoplasm survives and thrives in an otherwise healthy and immune-competent host, is it a perfect tumor? Therefore, a pertinent narrative of cancer depends on a proper perspective of cancer. If malignant cells are derived from stem cells, and both cells are intrinsically RB1 negative and TP53 null, do the absence of RB1 and loss of TP53 really matter in this whole narrative and an entirely different perspective of cancer?
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Ming Tu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Ahmet Murat Aydin
- Department of Urology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Sanjay Maraboyina
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Zhongning Chen
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Sunny Singh
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Neriman Gokden
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Timothy Langford
- Department of Urology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
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29
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Kumar G, Virmani T, Sharma A, Pathak K. Codelivery of Phytochemicals with Conventional Anticancer Drugs in Form of Nanocarriers. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:889. [PMID: 36986748 PMCID: PMC10055866 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Anticancer drugs in monotherapy are ineffective to treat various kinds of cancer due to the heterogeneous nature of cancer. Moreover, available anticancer drugs possessed various hurdles, such as drug resistance, insensitivity of cancer cells to drugs, adverse effects and patient inconveniences. Hence, plant-based phytochemicals could be a better substitute for conventional chemotherapy for treatment of cancer due to various properties: lesser adverse effects, action via multiple pathways, economical, etc. Various preclinical studies have demonstrated that a combination of phytochemicals with conventional anticancer drugs is more efficacious than phytochemicals individually to treat cancer because plant-derived compounds have lower anticancer efficacy than conventional anticancer drugs. Moreover, phytochemicals suffer from poor aqueous solubility and reduced bioavailability, which must be resolved for efficacious treatment of cancer. Therefore, nanotechnology-based novel carriers are employed for codelivery of phytochemicals and conventional anticancer drugs for better treatment of cancer. These novel carriers include nanoemulsion, nanosuspension, nanostructured lipid carriers, solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, metallic nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes that provide various benefits of improved solubility, reduced adverse effects, higher efficacy, reduced dose, improved dosing frequency, reduced drug resistance, improved bioavailability and higher patient compliance. This review summarizes various phytochemicals employed in treatment of cancer, combination therapy of phytochemicals with anticancer drugs and various nanotechnology-based carriers to deliver the combination therapy in treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girish Kumar
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MVN University, Aurangabad 121105, India
| | - Tarun Virmani
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MVN University, Aurangabad 121105, India
| | - Ashwani Sharma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MVN University, Aurangabad 121105, India
| | - Kamla Pathak
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Uttar Pradesh University of Medical Sciences, Saifai 206001, India
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30
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Karami Fath M, Garousi S, Mottahedi M, Ghasemzadeh N, Salmani K, Olfati F, Beit Saeed M, Sotoudeh S, Barati G. The role of hypoxia-inducible factors in breast cancer stem cell specification. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 243:154349. [PMID: 36791562 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Breast tumor is heterogeneous cancer with high morbidity and mortality rates, particularly in developing countries. Despite new efforts to reduce the breast cancer implications, the number of newly diagnosed cases is increasing worldwide. It is believed that cancer stem cells (CSCs) are responsible for the implication of cancers including breast cancer. Although CSCs compose a small population in tumor bulks, they play a crucial role in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and chemotherapeutic resistance. These events are mediated by the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway which regulates the transcription of genes involved in CSC maintenance and tumorigenesis. In this review, we discussed the mechanisms by which hypoxia- or chemotherapy-induced HIFs promote breast CSC specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Karami Fath
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Setareh Garousi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehran Mottahedi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Kiana Salmani
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Olfati
- Department of Reproductive Health, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Miad Beit Saeed
- Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Abadan Islamic Azad University, Abadan, Iran
| | - Sina Sotoudeh
- Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Guilan, Iran
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31
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Microfabrication methods for 3D spheroids formation and their application in biomedical engineering. KOREAN J CHEM ENG 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11814-022-1327-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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32
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Kaur J, Dora S. Purinergic signaling: Diverse effects and therapeutic potential in cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1058371. [PMID: 36741002 PMCID: PMC9889871 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1058371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Regardless of improved biological insights and therapeutic advances, cancer is consuming multiple lives worldwide. Cancer is a complex disease with diverse cellular, metabolic, and physiological parameters as its hallmarks. This instigates a need to uncover the latest therapeutic targets to advance the treatment of cancer patients. Purines are building blocks of nucleic acids but also function as metabolic intermediates and messengers, as part of a signaling pathway known as purinergic signaling. Purinergic signaling comprises primarily adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine (ADO), their analogous membrane receptors, and a set of ectonucleotidases, and has both short- and long-term (trophic) effects. Cells release ATP and ADO to modulate cellular function in an autocrine or paracrine manner by activating membrane-localized purinergic receptors (purinoceptors, P1 and P2). P1 receptors are selective for ADO and have four recognized subtypes-A1, A2A, A2B, and A3. Purines and pyrimidines activate P2 receptors, and the P2X subtype is ligand-gated ion channel receptors. P2X has seven subtypes (P2X1-7) and forms homo- and heterotrimers. The P2Y subtype is a G protein-coupled receptor with eight subtypes (P2Y1/2/4/6/11/12/13/14). ATP, its derivatives, and purinoceptors are widely distributed in all cell types for cellular communication, and any imbalance compromises the homeostasis of the cell. Neurotransmission, neuromodulation, and secretion employ fast purinergic signaling, while trophic purinergic signaling regulates cell metabolism, proliferation, differentiation, survival, migration, invasion, and immune response during tumor progression. Thus, purinergic signaling is a prospective therapeutic target in cancer and therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmeet Kaur
- Department of Biophysics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - Sanchit Dora
- Department of Biophysics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
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33
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Osum M, Kalkan R. Cancer Stem Cells and Their Therapeutic Usage. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1436:69-85. [PMID: 36689167 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2022_758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) have unique characteristics which include self-renewal, multi-directional differentiation capacity, quiescence/dormancy, and tumor-forming capability. These characteristics are referred to as the "stemness" properties. Tumor microenvironment contributes to CSC survival, function, and remaining them in an undifferentiated state. CSCs can form malignant tumors with heterogeneous phenotypes mediated by the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, the crosstalk between CSCs and tumor microenvironment can modulate tumor heterogeneity. CSCs play a crucial role in several biological processes, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), autophagy, and cellular stress response. In this chapter, we focused characteristics of cancer stem cells, reprogramming strategies cells into CSCs, and then we highlighted the contribution of CSCs to therapy resistance and cancer relapse and their potential of therapeutic targeting of CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meryem Osum
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Near East University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Rasime Kalkan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Cyprus Health and Social Sciences University, Guzelyurt, Cyprus.
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Castaneda M, den Hollander P, Kuburich NA, Rosen JM, Mani SA. Mechanisms of cancer metastasis. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:17-31. [PMID: 36354098 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic cancer is almost always terminal, and more than 90% of cancer deaths result from metastatic disease. Combating cancer metastasis and post-therapeutic recurrence successfully requires understanding each step of metastatic progression. This review describes the current state of knowledge of the etiology and mechanism of cancer progression from primary tumor growth to the formation of new tumors in other parts of the body. Open questions, avenues for future research, and therapeutic approaches with the potential to prevent or inhibit metastasis through personalization to each patient's mutation and/or immune profile are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Castaneda
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Petra den Hollander
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 021912, USA
| | - Nick A Kuburich
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 021912, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Rosen
- Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Sendurai A Mani
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 021912, USA.
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35
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Motofei IG. Biology of cancer; from cellular and molecular mechanisms to developmental processes and adaptation. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:600-615. [PMID: 34695580 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer research has been largely focused on the cellular and molecular levels of investigation. Recent data show that not only the cell but also the extracellular matrix plays a major role in the progression of malignancy. In this way, the cells and the extracellular matrix create a specific local microenvironment that supports malignant development. At the same time, cancer implies a systemic evolution which is closely related to developmental processes and adaptation. Consequently, there is currently a real gap between the local investigation of cancer at the microenvironmental level, and the pathophysiological approach to cancer as a systemic disease. In fact, the cells and the matrix are not only complementary structures but also interdependent components that act synergistically. Such relationships lead to cell-matrix integration, a supracellular form of biological organization that supports tissue development. The emergence of this supracellular level of organization, as a structure, leads to the emergence of the supracellular control of proliferation, as a supracellular function. In humans, proliferation is generally involved in developmental processes and adaptation. These processes suppose a specific configuration at the systemic level, which generates high-order guidance for local supracellular control of proliferation. In conclusion, the supracellular control of proliferation act as an interface between the downstream level of cell division and differentiation, and upstream level of developmental processes and adaptation. Understanding these processes and their disorders is useful not only to complete the big picture of malignancy as a systemic disease, but also to open new treatment perspectives in the form of etiopathogenic (supracellular or informational) therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ion G Motofei
- Department of Oncology/ Surgery, Carol Davila University, St. Pantelimon Hospital, Dionisie Lupu Street, No. 37, Bucharest, 020021, Romania.
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36
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Aikins ME, Qin Y, Dobson HE, Najafabadi AH, Lyu K, Xu Y, Xin Y, Schwendeman A, Wicha MS, Chang AE, Li Q, Moon JJ. Cancer stem cell antigen nanodisc cocktail elicits anti-tumor immune responses in melanoma. J Control Release 2022; 351:872-882. [PMID: 36206945 PMCID: PMC9765445 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.09.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
One of the major reasons for poor cancer outcomes is the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are a small subpopulation of tumor cells that can self-renew, differentiate into the majority of tumor cells, and maintain tumorigenicity. As CSCs are resistant to traditional chemotherapy and radiation, they contribute to metastasis and relapse. Thus, new approaches are needed to target and eliminate CSCs. Here, we sought to target and reduce the frequency of CSCs in melanoma by therapeutic vaccination against CSC-associated transcription factors, such as Sox2 and Nanog, and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). Toward this goal, we have identified novel immunogenic peptide epitopes derived from CSC-associated Sox2 and Nanog and synthesized synthetic high-density lipoprotein (sHDL) nanodisc vaccine formulated with Sox2, Nanog, and ALDH antigen peptides together with CpG, a Toll-like receptor 9 agonist. Vaccination with nanodiscs containing six CSC antigen peptides elicited robust T cell responses against CSC-associated antigens and promoted intratumoral infiltration of CD8+ T cells, while reducing the frequency of CSCs and CD4+ regulatory T cells within melanoma tumors. Nanodisc vaccination effectively reduced tumor growth and significantly extended animal survival without toxicity toward normal stem cells. Overall, our therapeutic strategy against CSCs represents a cost-effective, safe, and versatile approach that may be applied to melanoma and other cancer types, as well as serve as a critical component in combined therapies to target and eliminate CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa E Aikins
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - You Qin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Hannah E Dobson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Alireza Hassani Najafabadi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Los Angeles, California 90024, USA
| | - Kexing Lyu
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Yao Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ying Xin
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Anna Schwendeman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Max S Wicha
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Alfred E Chang
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Qiao Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - James J Moon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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Abdou Hassan W, Muqresh MA, Omar M. The Potential Role of CD44 and CD133 in Colorectal Stem Cell Cancer. Cureus 2022; 14:e30509. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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38
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Li Z, Zhang YY, Zhang H, Yang J, Chen Y, Lu H. Asymmetric Cell Division and Tumor Heterogeneity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:938685. [PMID: 35859890 PMCID: PMC9289117 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.938685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Asymmetric cell division (ACD) gives rise to two daughter cells with different fates after mitosis and is a fundamental process for generating cell diversity and for the maintenance of the stem cell population. The cancer stem cell (CSC) theory suggests that CSCs with dysregulated self-renewal and asymmetric cell division serve as a source of intra-tumoral heterogeneity. This heterogeneity complicates the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients, because CSCs can give rise to aggressive clones that are metastatic and insensitive to multiple drugs, or to dormant tumor cells that are difficult to detect. Here, we review the regulatory mechanisms and biological significance of asymmetric division in tumor cells, with a focus on ACD-induced tumor heterogeneity in early tumorigenesis and cancer progression. We will also discuss how dissecting the relationship between ACD and cancer may help us find new approaches for combatting this heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizhu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Yi Zhang
- Centre for Systems Biology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Haomiao Zhang
- School of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jiaxuan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongze Chen
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Hezhe Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hezhe Lu,
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Fath MK, Ebrahimi M, Nourbakhsh E, Hazara AZ, Mirzaei A, Shafieyari S, Salehi A, Hoseinzadeh M, Payandeh Z, Barati G. PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Cancer Stem Cells. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 237:154010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.154010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Liu C, Moten A, Ma Z, Lin HK. The foundational framework of tumors: Gametogenesis, p53, and cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 81:193-205. [PMID: 33940178 PMCID: PMC9382687 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The completion-of-tumor hypothesis involved in the dynamic interplay between the initiating oncogenic event and progression is essential to better recognize the foundational framework of tumors. Here we review and extend the gametogenesis-related hypothesis of tumors, because high embryonic/germ cell traits are common in tumors. The century-old gametogenesis-related hypothesis of tumors postulated that tumors arise from displaced/activated trophoblasts, displaced (lost) germ cells, and the reprogramming/reactivation of gametogenic program in somatic cells. Early primordial germ cells (PGCs), embryonic stem (ES) cells, embryonic germ cells (EGCs), and pre-implantation embryos at the stage from two-cell stage to blastocysts originating from fertilization or parthenogenesis have the potential to develop teratomas/teratocarcinomas. In addition, the teratomas/teratocarcinomas/germ cells occur in gonads and extra-gonads. Undoubtedly, the findings provide strong support for the hypothesis. However, it was thought that these tumor types were an exception rather than verification. In fact, there are extensive similarities between somatic tumor types and embryonic/germ cell development, such as antigens, migration, invasion, and immune escape. It was documented that embryonic/germ cell genes play crucial roles in tumor behaviors, e.g. tumor initiation and metastasis. Of note, embryonic/germ cell-like tumor cells at different developmental stages including PGC and oocyte to the early embryo-like stage were identified in diverse tumor types by our group. These embryonic/germ cell-like cancer cells resemble the natural embryonic/germ cells in morphology, gene expression, the capability of teratoma formation, and the ability to undergo the process of oocyte maturation and parthenogenesis. These embryonic/germ cell-like cancer cells are derived from somatic cells and contribute to tumor formation, metastasis, and drug resistance, establishing asexual meiotic embryonic life cycle. p53 inhibits the reactivation of embryonic/germ cell state in somatic cells and oocyte-like cell maturation. Based on earlier and our recent studies, we propose a novel model to complete the gametogenesis-related hypothesis of tumors, which can be applied to certain somatic tumors. That is, tumors tend to establish a somatic asexual meiotic embryonic cycle through the activation of somatic female gametogenesis and parthenogenesis in somatic tumor cells during the tumor progression, thus passing on corresponding embryonic/germ cell traits leading to the malignant behaviors and enhancing the cells' independence. This concept may be instrumental to better understand the nature and evolution of tumors. We rationalize that targeting the key events of somatic pregnancy is likely a better therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment than directly targeting cell mitotic proliferation, especially for those tumors with p53 inactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunfang Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Asad Moten
- Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Zhan Ma
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Hui-Kuan Lin
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA.
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Ponomarev A, Gilazieva Z, Solovyeva V, Allegrucci C, Rizvanov A. Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors Impacting Cancer Stemness and Tumor Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:970. [PMID: 35205716 PMCID: PMC8869813 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity represents an important limitation to the development of effective cancer therapies. The presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their differentiation hierarchies contribute to cancer complexity and confer tumors the ability to grow, resist treatment, survive unfavorable conditions, and invade neighboring and distant tissues. A large body of research is currently focusing on understanding the properties of CSCs, including their cellular and molecular origin, as well as their biological behavior in different tumor types. In turn, this knowledge informs strategies for targeting these tumor initiating cells and related cancer stemness. Cancer stemness is modulated by the tumor microenvironment, which influences CSC function and survival. Several advanced in vitro models are currently being developed to study cancer stemness in order to advance new knowledge of the key molecular pathways involved in CSC self-renewal and dormancy, as well as to mimic the complexity of patients' tumors in pre-clinical drug testing. In this review, we discuss CSCs and the modulation of cancer stemness by the tumor microenvironment, stemness factors and signaling pathways. In addition, we introduce current models that allow the study of CSCs for the development of new targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Ponomarev
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (A.P.); (Z.G.); (V.S.)
| | - Zarema Gilazieva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (A.P.); (Z.G.); (V.S.)
| | - Valeriya Solovyeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (A.P.); (Z.G.); (V.S.)
| | - Cinzia Allegrucci
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science (SVMS) and Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Albert Rizvanov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (A.P.); (Z.G.); (V.S.)
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Mo J, Moye SL, McKay RM, Le LQ. Neurofibromin and suppression of tumorigenesis: beyond the GAP. Oncogene 2022; 41:1235-1251. [PMID: 35066574 PMCID: PMC9063229 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-02156-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant genetic disease and one of the most common inherited tumor predisposition syndromes, affecting 1 in 3000 individuals worldwide. The NF1 gene encodes neurofibromin, a large protein with RAS GTP-ase activating (RAS-GAP) activity, and loss of NF1 results in increased RAS signaling. Neurofibromin contains many other domains, and there is considerable evidence that these domains play a role in some manifestations of NF1. Investigating the role of these domains as well as the various signaling pathways that neurofibromin regulates and interacts with will provide a better understanding of how neurofibromin acts to suppress tumor development and potentially open new therapeutic avenues. In this review, we discuss what is known about the structure of neurofibromin, its interactions with other proteins and signaling pathways, its role in development and differentiation, and its function as a tumor suppressor. Finally, we discuss the latest research on potential therapeutics for neurofibromin-deficient neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Mo
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Stefanie L Moye
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Renee M McKay
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Lu Q Le
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA.
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA.
- UTSW Comprehensive Neurofibromatosis Clinic, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA.
- Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA.
- O'Donnell Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA.
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Abstract
Hypoxia is defined as a cellular stress condition caused by a decrease in oxygen below physiologically normal levels. Cells in the core of a rapidly growing solid tumor are faced with the challenge of inadequate supply of oxygen through the blood, owing to improper vasculature inside the tumor. This hypoxic microenvironment inside the tumor initiates a gene expression program that alters numerous signaling pathways, allowing the cancer cell to eventually evade adverse conditions and attain a more aggressive phenotype. A multitude of studies covering diverse aspects of gene regulation has tried to uncover the mechanisms involved in hypoxia-induced tumorigenesis. The role of epigenetics in executing widespread and dynamic changes in gene expression under hypoxia has been gaining an increasing amount of support in recent years. This chapter discusses, in detail, various epigenetic mechanisms driving the cellular response to hypoxia in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Pant
- Epigenetics and RNA Processing Lab (ERPL), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, Bhopal, India
| | - Srinivas Abhishek Mutnuru
- Epigenetics and RNA Processing Lab (ERPL), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, Bhopal, India
| | - Sanjeev Shukla
- Epigenetics and RNA Processing Lab (ERPL), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, Bhopal, India.
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Rios ÁFL, Tirapelli DPDC, Cirino MLDA, Rodrigues AR, Ramos ES, Carlotti CG. Expression of pluripotency-related genes in human glioblastoma. Neurooncol Adv 2022; 4:vdab163. [PMID: 35274101 PMCID: PMC8903226 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdab163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer is a group of heterogeneous diseases characterized by several disruptions of the genetic and epigenetic components of cell biology. Some types of cancer have been shown to be constituted by a mosaic of cells with variable differentiation states, with more aggressive tumors being more undifferentiated. In most cases, undifferentiated tumor cells express associated embryonic markers such as the OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, and CARM1 genes. The ectopic or reminiscent expression of some master regulator genes of pluripotency has been indicated as the cause of the poorly differentiated state of tumors, and based on the evidence of some reports, can be used as a possible therapeutic target. Considering this information, a more detailed investigation of the expression of pluripotency-associated genes is necessary to evaluate the roles of these genes in the etiology of some tumors and their use targets of therapy. Methods The expression of four pluripotency-related genes was investigated (OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, and CARM1) in the most malignant primary human brain tumor, glioblastoma (GBM). Results and Conclusion The results demonstrated a signature of OCT4/SOX2/CARM1 genes and a significant increase of CARM1 expression in GBM cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Fabrício Lopes Rios
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Center for Biosciences and Biotechnology, North Fluminense State University, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Mucio Luiz de Assis Cirino
- Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Ribeirão Preto Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andressa Romualdo Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Morphofunctional and Integrated Practices, Franca Medical School, University of Franca, Franca, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ester S Ramos
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos Gilberto Carlotti
- Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Ribeirão Preto Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Abstract
Prolactin coordinates with the ovarian steroids to orchestrate mammary development and lactation, culminating in nourishment and an increasingly appreciated array of other benefits for neonates. Its central activities in mammary epithelial growth and differentiation suggest that it plays a role(s) in breast cancer, but it has been challenging to identify its contributions, essential for incorporation into prevention and treatment approaches. Large prospective epidemiologic studies have linked higher prolactin exposure to increased risk, particularly for ER+ breast cancer in postmenopausal women. However, it has been more difficult to determine its actions and clinical consequences in established tumors. Here we review experimental data implicating multiple mechanisms by which prolactin may increase the risk of breast cancer. We then consider the evidence for role(s) of prolactin and its downstream signaling cascades in disease progression and treatment responses, and discuss how new approaches are beginning to illuminate the biology behind the seemingly conflicting epidemiologic and experimental studies of prolactin actions across diverse breast cancers.
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Time to Classify Tumours of the Stomach and the Kidneys According to Cell of Origin. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413386. [PMID: 34948181 PMCID: PMC8707540 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumours are traditionally classified according to their organ of origin and whether they are of epithelial (carcinomas) or mesenchymal (sarcomas) origin. By histological appearance the site of origin may often be confirmed. Using same treatment for tumours from the same organ is rational only when there is no principal heterogeneity between the tumours of that organ. Organ tumour heterogeneity is typical for the lungs with small cell and non-small cell tumours, for the kidneys where clear cell renal carcinoma (CCRCC) is the dominating type among other subgroups, and in the stomach with adenocarcinomas of intestinal and diffuse types. In addition, a separate type of neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) is found in most organs. Every cell type able to divide may develop into a tumour, and the different subtypes most often reflect different cell origin. In this article the focus is on the cells of origin in tumours arising in the stomach and kidneys and the close relationship between normal neuroendocrine cells and NETs. Furthermore, that the erythropoietin producing cell may be the cell of origin of CCRCC (a cancer with many similarities to NETs), and that gastric carcinomas of diffuse type may originate from the ECL cell, whereas the endodermal stem cell most probably gives rise to cancers of intestinal type.
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Alvarez Fallas ME, Pedraza-Arevalo S, Cujba AM, Manea T, Lambert C, Morrugares R, Sancho R. Stem/progenitor cells in normal physiology and disease of the pancreas. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 538:111459. [PMID: 34543699 PMCID: PMC8573583 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Though embryonic pancreas progenitors are well characterised, the existence of stem/progenitor cells in the postnatal mammalian pancreas has been long debated, mainly due to contradicting results on regeneration after injury or disease in mice. Despite these controversies, sequencing advancements combined with lineage tracing and organoid technologies indicate that homeostatic and trigger-induced regenerative responses in mice could occur. The presence of putative progenitor cells in the adult pancreas has been proposed during homeostasis and upon different stress challenges such as inflammation, tissue damage and oncogenic stress. More recently, single cell transcriptomics has revealed a remarkable heterogeneity in all pancreas cell types, with some cells showing the signature of potential progenitors. In this review we provide an overview on embryonic and putative adult pancreas progenitors in homeostasis and disease, with special emphasis on in vitro culture systems and scRNA-seq technology as tools to address the progenitor nature of different pancreatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Enrique Alvarez Fallas
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sergio Pedraza-Arevalo
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ana-Maria Cujba
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Teodora Manea
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher Lambert
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rosario Morrugares
- Instituto Maimonides de Investigacion Biomedica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain; Departamento de Biologia Celular, Fisiologia e Inmunologia, Universidad de Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Rocio Sancho
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany.
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Yu X, Li M, Guo C, Wu Y, Zhao L, Shi Q, Song J, Song B. Therapeutic Targeting of Cancer: Epigenetic Homeostasis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:747022. [PMID: 34765551 PMCID: PMC8576334 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.747022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A large number of studies have revealed that epigenetics plays an important role in cancer development. However, the currently-developed epigenetic drugs cannot achieve a stable curative effect. Thus, it may be necessary to redefine the role of epigenetics in cancer development. It has been shown that embryonic development and tumor development share significant similarities in terms of biological behavior and molecular expression patterns, and epigenetics may be the link between them. Cell differentiation is likely a manifestation of epigenetic homeostasis at the cellular level. In this article, we introduced the importance of epigenetic homeostasis in cancer development and analyzed the shortcomings of current epigenetic treatment regimens. Understanding the dynamic process of epigenetic homeostasis in organ development can help us characterize cancer according to its differentiation stages, explore new targets for cancer treatment, and improve the clinical prognosis of patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyuan Yu
- Department of Oncology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Menglu Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Chunyan Guo
- Department of Oncology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yuesheng Wu
- Department of Oncology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Qinying Shi
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jianbo Song
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bin Song
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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Rosati D, Giordano A. Single-cell RNA sequencing and bioinformatics as tools to decipher cancer heterogenicity and mechanisms of drug resistance. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 195:114811. [PMID: 34673017 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that cancer is an aggressive disease, often associated with relapse, in many cases due to drug resistance. Cancer stem cell and clonal evolution are frequently causes of innate or acquired drug resistance. Current RNA sequencing technologies do not distinguish gene expression of different cell lineages because they are based on bulk cell studies. Single-cell RNA sequencing technologies and related bioinformatics clustering and differential expression analysis represent a turning point in cancer research. They are emerging as essential tools for dissecting tumors at single-cell resolution and represent novel tools to understand carcinogenesis and drug response. In this review, we will outline the role of these new technologies in addressing cancer heterogeneity and cell lineage-dependent drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diletta Rosati
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA.
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50
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Pashirzad M, Johnston TP, Sahebkar A. Therapeutic Effects of Polyphenols on the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer by Regulating Wnt β-Catenin Signaling Pathway. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2021; 2021:3619510. [PMID: 34621313 PMCID: PMC8492275 DOI: 10.1155/2021/3619510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide in terms of both its rates of incidence and mortality. Due to serious side effects associated with conventional chemotherapeutic treatments, many natural products with fewer adverse side effects have been considered as potential treatment options. In fact, many natural products have widely been used in various phases of clinical trials for CRC, as well as in in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies. Curcumin (CUR) and resveratrol (RES) are classified as natural polyphenolic compounds that have been demonstrated to have anticancer activity against CRC and are associated with minimal side effects. By regulating select target genes involved in several key signaling pathways in CRC, in particular, the Wnt β-catenin signaling cascade, the course of CRC may be positively altered. In the current review, we focused on the therapeutic effects of CUR and RES in CRC as they pertain to modulation of the Wnt β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Pashirzad
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Thomas P. Johnston
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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