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Editor’s Choice Articles

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

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24 pages, 18990 KiB  
Review
Contribution of Anoctamins to Cell Survival and Cell Death
by Karl Kunzelmann, Jiraporn Ousingsawat, Roberta Benedetto, Ines Cabrita and Rainer Schreiber
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030382 - 19 Mar 2019
Cited by 61 | Viewed by 8209
Abstract
Before anoctamins (TMEM16 proteins) were identified as a family of Ca2+-activated chloride channels and phospholipid scramblases, the founding member anoctamin 1 (ANO1, TMEM16A) was known as DOG1, a marker protein for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). Meanwhile, ANO1 has been examined in [...] Read more.
Before anoctamins (TMEM16 proteins) were identified as a family of Ca2+-activated chloride channels and phospholipid scramblases, the founding member anoctamin 1 (ANO1, TMEM16A) was known as DOG1, a marker protein for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). Meanwhile, ANO1 has been examined in more detail, and the role of ANO1 in cell proliferation and the development of different types of malignomas is now well established. While ANO5, ANO7, and ANO9 may also be relevant for growth of cancers, evidence has been provided for a role of ANO6 (TMEM16F) in regulated cell death. The cellular mechanisms by which anoctamins control cell proliferation and cell death, respectively, are just emerging; however, the pronounced effects of anoctamins on intracellular Ca2+ levels are likely to play a significant role. Recent results suggest that some anoctamins control membrane exocytosis by setting Ca2+i levels near the plasma membrane, and/or by controlling the intracellular Cl− concentration. Exocytosis and increased membrane trafficking induced by ANO1 and ANO6 may enhance membrane expression of other chloride channels, such as CFTR and volume activated chloride channels (VRAC). Notably, ANO6-induced phospholipid scrambling with exposure of phosphatidylserine is pivotal for the sheddase function of disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM). This may support cell death and tumorigenic activity of IL-6 by inducing IL-6 trans-signaling. The reported anticancer effects of the anthelminthic drug niclosamide are probably related to the potent inhibitory effect on ANO1, apart from inducing cell cycle arrest through the Let-7d/CDC34 axis. On the contrary, pronounced activation of ANO6 due to a large increase in intracellular calcium, activation of phospholipase A2 or lipid peroxidation, can lead to ferroptotic death of cancer cells. It therefore appears reasonable to search for both inhibitors and potent activators of TMEM16 in order to interfere with cancer growth and metastasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ion Channels in Cancer)
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14 pages, 1230 KiB  
Review
Newer-Generation EGFR Inhibitors in Lung Cancer: How Are They Best Used?
by Tri Le and David E. Gerber
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030366 - 15 Mar 2019
Cited by 52 | Viewed by 8126
Abstract
The FLAURA trial established osimertinib, a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), as a viable first-line therapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with sensitizing EGFR mutations, namely exon 19 deletion and L858R. In this phase 3 randomized, controlled, [...] Read more.
The FLAURA trial established osimertinib, a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), as a viable first-line therapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with sensitizing EGFR mutations, namely exon 19 deletion and L858R. In this phase 3 randomized, controlled, double-blind trial of treatment-naïve patients with EGFR mutant NSCLC, osimertinib was compared to standard-of-care EGFR TKIs (i.e., erlotinib or gefinitib) in the first-line setting. Osimertinib demonstrated improvement in median progression-free survival (18.9 months vs. 10.2 months; hazard ratio 0.46; 95% CI, 0.37 to 0.57; p < 0.001) and a more favorable toxicity profile due to its lower affinity for wild-type EGFR. Furthermore, similar to later-generation anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitors, osimertinib has improved efficacy against brain metastases. Despite this impressive effect, the optimal sequencing of osimertinib, whether in the first line or as subsequent therapy after the failure of earlier-generation EGFR TKIs, is not clear. Because up-front use of later-generation TKIs may result in the inability to use earlier-generation TKIs, this treatment paradigm must be evaluated carefully. For EGFR mutant NSCLC, considerations include the incidence of T790M resistance mutations, quality of life, whether there is a potential role for earlier-generation TKIs after osimertinib failure, and overall survival. This review explores these issues for EGFR inhibitors and other molecularly targeted therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Signaling in Cancer)
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27 pages, 11879 KiB  
Article
The Small Molecule Ephrin Receptor Inhibitor, GLPG1790, Reduces Renewal Capabilities of Cancer Stem Cells, Showing Anti-Tumour Efficacy on Preclinical Glioblastoma Models
by Giovanni Luca Gravina, Andrea Mancini, Alessandro Colapietro, Simona Delle Monache, Roberta Sferra, Flora Vitale, Loredana Cristiano, Stefano Martellucci, Francesco Marampon, Vincenzo Mattei, Filip Beirinckx, Philippe Pujuguet, Laurent Saniere, Giocondo Lorenzon, Ellen van der Aar and Claudio Festuccia
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030359 - 13 Mar 2019
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 6083
Abstract
Therapies against glioblastoma (GBM) show a high percentage of failure associated with the survival of glioma stem cells (GSCs) that repopulate treated tumours. Forced differentiation of GSCs is a promising new approach in cancer treatment. Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular (Eph) receptors drive tumourigenicity and stemness [...] Read more.
Therapies against glioblastoma (GBM) show a high percentage of failure associated with the survival of glioma stem cells (GSCs) that repopulate treated tumours. Forced differentiation of GSCs is a promising new approach in cancer treatment. Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular (Eph) receptors drive tumourigenicity and stemness in GBM. We tested GLPG1790, a first small molecule with inhibition activity versus inhibitor of various Eph receptor kinases, in preclinical GBM models using in vitro and in vivo assays. GLPG1790 rapidly and persistently inhibited Ephrin-A1-mediated phosphorylation of Tyr588 and Ser897, completely blocking EphA2 receptor signalling. Similarly, this compound blocks the ephrin B2-mediated EphA3 and EphB4 tyrosine phosphorylation. This resulted in anti-glioma effects. GLPG1790 down-modulated the expression of mesenchymal markers CD44, Sox2, nestin, octamer-binding transcription factor 3/4 (Oct3/4), Nanog, CD90, and CD105, and up-regulated that of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and pro-neural/neuronal markers, βIII tubulin, and neurofilaments. GLPG1790 reduced tumour growth in vivo. These effects were larger compared to radiation therapy (RT; U251 and T98G xenografts) and smaller than those of temozolomide (TMZ; U251 and U87MG cell models). By contrast, GLPG1790 showed effects that were higher than Radiotherapy (RT) and similar to Temozolomide (TMZ) in orthotopic U87MG and CSCs-5 models in terms of disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Further experiments were necessary to study possible interactions with radio- and chemotherapy. GLPG1790 demonstrated anti-tumor effects regulating both the differentiative status of Glioma Initiating Cells (GICs) and the quality of tumor microenvironment, translating into efficacy in aggressive GBM mouse models. Significant common molecular targets to radio and chemo therapy supported the combination use of GLPG1790 in ameliorative antiglioma therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glioblastoma: State of the Art and Future Perspectives)
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19 pages, 5894 KiB  
Review
Conversion of Stem Cells to Cancer Stem Cells: Undercurrent of Cancer Initiation
by Said M. Afify and Masaharu Seno
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030345 - 11 Mar 2019
Cited by 130 | Viewed by 17312
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) also known as cancer-initiating cells (CIC), are responsible for the sustained and uncontrolled growth of malignant tumors and are proposed to play significant roles in metastasis and recurrence. Several hypotheses have proposed that the events in either stem and/or [...] Read more.
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) also known as cancer-initiating cells (CIC), are responsible for the sustained and uncontrolled growth of malignant tumors and are proposed to play significant roles in metastasis and recurrence. Several hypotheses have proposed that the events in either stem and/or differentiated cells, such as genomic instability, inflammatory microenvironment, cell fusion, and lateral gene transfer, should be considered as the possible origin of CSCs. However, until now, the exact origin of CSC has been obscure. The development of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in 2007, by Yamanaka’s group, has been met with much fervency and hailed as a breakthrough discovery by the scientific and research communities, especially in regeneration therapy. The studies on the development of CSC from iPSCs should also open a new page of cancer research, which will help in designing new therapies applicable to CSCs. Currently most reviews have focused on CSCs and CSC niches. However, the insight into the niche before the CSC niche should also be of keen interest. This review introduces the novel concept of cancer initiation introducing the conversion of iPSCs to CSCs and proposes a relationship between the inflammatory microenvironment and cancer initiation as the key concept of the cancer-inducing niche responsible for the development of CSC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Stem Cell Research)
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17 pages, 2027 KiB  
Article
CAFs and TGF-β Signaling Activation by Mast Cells Contribute to Resistance to Gemcitabine/Nabpaclitaxel in Pancreatic Cancer
by Letizia Porcelli, Rosa Maria Iacobazzi, Roberta Di Fonte, Simona Serratì, Angelica Intini, Antonio Giovanni Solimando, Oronzo Brunetti, Angela Calabrese, Francesco Leonetti, Amalia Azzariti and Nicola Silvestris
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030330 - 7 Mar 2019
Cited by 77 | Viewed by 6597
Abstract
Tumor–stroma interactions are of key importance for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) progression. Our aim was to investigate whether cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and mast cells (MC) affected the sensitivity of PDAC cells to gemcitabine/nabpaclitaxel (GEM/NAB). For this purpose, the combination cytotoxicity and the [...] Read more.
Tumor–stroma interactions are of key importance for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) progression. Our aim was to investigate whether cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and mast cells (MC) affected the sensitivity of PDAC cells to gemcitabine/nabpaclitaxel (GEM/NAB). For this purpose, the combination cytotoxicity and the effect on tumor invasion and angiogenesis were evaluated with or without a conditioned medium from the mast cell line HMC-1 (human mast cell line-1 cells) and CAFs. Beside the clinical outcome of a homogenous population of PDAC patients, receiving GEM/NAB, was correlated to the circulating levels of mast cell tryptase and to a panel of inflammatory and immunosuppressive cytokines. CAFs neither affected drugs’ cytotoxicity nor the inhibition of angiogenesis, but promoted tumor cell invasion. The MC instead, caused resistance to drugs by reducing apoptosis, by activating the TGF-β signalling and by promoting tumor invasion. Indeed, the inhibition of TβRI serine/threonine kinase activity by galunisertib restored drugs cytotoxicity. Moreover, MC induced the release of TGF-β1, and increased expression of PAR-2, ERK1/2 and Akt activation. Accordingly, TGF-β1, tryptase and other pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive cytokines increased in the unresponsive patients. In conclusion, MC play a pivotal role in the resistance to GEM/NAB. A correlation between high level of circulating pro-inflammatory/ immunosuppressive cytokines and unresponsiveness was found in PDAC patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pancreatic Cancer Research)
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23 pages, 1321 KiB  
Review
Role of miRNAs in Melanoma Metastasis
by Anna Gajos-Michniewicz and Malgorzata Czyz
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 326; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030326 - 7 Mar 2019
Cited by 64 | Viewed by 7038
Abstract
Tumour metastasis is a multistep process. Melanoma is a highly aggressive cancer and metastasis accounts for the majority of patient deaths. microRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that affect the expression of their target genes. When aberrantly expressed they contribute to the development of [...] Read more.
Tumour metastasis is a multistep process. Melanoma is a highly aggressive cancer and metastasis accounts for the majority of patient deaths. microRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that affect the expression of their target genes. When aberrantly expressed they contribute to the development of melanoma. While miRNAs can act locally in the cell where they are synthesized, they can also influence the phenotype of neighboring melanoma cells or execute their function in the direct tumour microenvironment by modulating ECM (extracellular matrix) and the activity of fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells. miRNAs are involved in all stages of melanoma metastasis, including intravasation into the lumina of vessels, survival during circulation in cardiovascular or lymphatic systems, extravasation, and formation of the pre-metastatic niche in distant organs. miRNAs contribute to metabolic alterations that provide a selective advantage during melanoma progression. They play an important role in the development of drug resistance, including resistance to targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Distinct profiles of miRNA expression are detected at each step of melanoma development. Since miRNAs can be detected in liquid biopsies, they are considered biomarkers of early disease stages or response to treatment. This review summarizes recent findings regarding the role of miRNAs in melanoma metastasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue MicroRNA-Associated Cancer Metastasis)
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9 pages, 476 KiB  
Brief Report
Breast Cancer Prognosis Using a Machine Learning Approach
by Patrizia Ferroni, Fabio M. Zanzotto, Silvia Riondino, Noemi Scarpato, Fiorella Guadagni and Mario Roselli
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030328 - 7 Mar 2019
Cited by 113 | Viewed by 10245
Abstract
Machine learning (ML) has been recently introduced to develop prognostic classification models that can be used to predict outcomes in individual cancer patients. Here, we report the significance of an ML-based decision support system (DSS), combined with random optimization (RO), to extract prognostic [...] Read more.
Machine learning (ML) has been recently introduced to develop prognostic classification models that can be used to predict outcomes in individual cancer patients. Here, we report the significance of an ML-based decision support system (DSS), combined with random optimization (RO), to extract prognostic information from routinely collected demographic, clinical and biochemical data of breast cancer (BC) patients. A DSS model was developed in a training set (n = 318), whose performance analysis in the testing set (n = 136) resulted in a C-index for progression-free survival of 0.84, with an accuracy of 86%. Furthermore, the model was capable of stratifying the testing set into two groups of patients with low- or high-risk of progression with a hazard ratio (HR) of 10.9 (p < 0.0001). Validation in multicenter prospective studies and appropriate management of privacy issues in relation to digital electronic health records (EHR) data are presently needed. Nonetheless, we may conclude that the implementation of ML algorithms and RO models into EHR data might help to achieve prognostic information, and has the potential to revolutionize the practice of personalized medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Bioinformatics in Cancers)
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24 pages, 2556 KiB  
Review
Tumor Energy Metabolism and Potential of 3-Bromopyruvate as an Inhibitor of Aerobic Glycolysis: Implications in Tumor Treatment
by Tengjiao Fan, Guohui Sun, Xiaodong Sun, Lijiao Zhao, Rugang Zhong and Yongzhen Peng
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030317 - 6 Mar 2019
Cited by 122 | Viewed by 14934
Abstract
Tumor formation and growth depend on various biological metabolism processes that are distinctly different with normal tissues. Abnormal energy metabolism is one of the typical characteristics of tumors. It has been proven that most tumor cells highly rely on aerobic glycolysis to obtain [...] Read more.
Tumor formation and growth depend on various biological metabolism processes that are distinctly different with normal tissues. Abnormal energy metabolism is one of the typical characteristics of tumors. It has been proven that most tumor cells highly rely on aerobic glycolysis to obtain energy rather than mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) even in the presence of oxygen, a phenomenon called “Warburg effect”. Thus, inhibition of aerobic glycolysis becomes an attractive strategy to specifically kill tumor cells, while normal cells remain unaffected. In recent years, a small molecule alkylating agent, 3-bromopyruvate (3-BrPA), being an effective glycolytic inhibitor, has shown great potential as a promising antitumor drug. Not only it targets glycolysis process, but also inhibits mitochondrial OXPHOS in tumor cells. Excellent antitumor effects of 3-BrPA were observed in cultured cells and tumor-bearing animal models. In this review, we described the energy metabolic pathways of tumor cells, mechanism of action and cellular targets of 3-BrPA, antitumor effects, and the underlying mechanism of 3-BrPA alone or in combination with other antitumor drugs (e.g., cisplatin, doxorubicin, daunorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, etc.) in vitro and in vivo. In addition, few human case studies of 3-BrPA were also involved. Finally, the novel chemotherapeutic strategies of 3-BrPA, including wafer, liposomal nanoparticle, aerosol, and conjugate formulations, were also discussed for future clinical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Targeting Solid Tumors)
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21 pages, 1159 KiB  
Review
EMT Regulation by Autophagy: A New Perspective in Glioblastoma Biology
by Barbara Colella, Fiorella Faienza and Sabrina Di Bartolomeo
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030312 - 6 Mar 2019
Cited by 94 | Viewed by 8245
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its reverse process MET naturally occur during development and in tissue repair in vertebrates. EMT is also recognized as the crucial event by which cancer cells acquire an invasive phenotype through the activation of specific transcription factors and signalling [...] Read more.
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its reverse process MET naturally occur during development and in tissue repair in vertebrates. EMT is also recognized as the crucial event by which cancer cells acquire an invasive phenotype through the activation of specific transcription factors and signalling pathways. Even though glial cells have a mesenchymal phenotype, an EMT-like process tends to exacerbate it during gliomagenesis and progression to more aggressive stages of the disease. Autophagy is an evolutionary conserved degradative process that cells use in order to maintain a proper homeostasis, and defects in autophagy have been associated to several pathologies including cancer. Besides modulating cell resistance or sensitivity to therapy, autophagy also affects the migration and invasion capabilities of tumor cells. Despite this evidence, few papers are present in literature about the involvement of autophagy in EMT-like processes in glioblastoma (GBM) so far. This review summarizes the current understanding of the interplay between autophagy and EMT in cancer, with special regard to GBM model. As the invasive behaviour is a hallmark of GBM aggressiveness, defining a new link between autophagy and EMT can open a novel scenario for targeting these processes in future therapeutical approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glioblastoma: State of the Art and Future Perspectives)
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14 pages, 1201 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Cancer Stem Cell-Targeted Immunotherapy
by Narayanasamy Badrinath and So Young Yoo
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030310 - 5 Mar 2019
Cited by 58 | Viewed by 7597
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are one of the reasons for the relapse of cancer cells and metastasis. They have drug resistance against most chemotherapeutic agents. CSCs are also responsible for tumor cell heterogeneity and cause minimal residual disease. In order to achieve complete [...] Read more.
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are one of the reasons for the relapse of cancer cells and metastasis. They have drug resistance against most chemotherapeutic agents. CSCs are also responsible for tumor cell heterogeneity and cause minimal residual disease. In order to achieve complete regression of tumors, CSCs have to be targeted. Recent advances in immunotherapies have shown promising outcomes in curing cancer, which are also applicable to target CSCs. CSCs express immune markers and exhibit specific immune characteristics in various cancers, which can be used in immunotherapies to target CSCs in the tumor microenvironment. Recently, various strategies have been used to target CSCs. Adaptive T-cells, dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines, oncolytic viruses, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and combination therapies are now being used to target CSCs. Here, we discuss the feasibility of these immunological approaches and the recent trends in immunotherapies to target CSCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Stem Cell Research)
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17 pages, 1277 KiB  
Review
Immunotherapy Associated Pulmonary Toxicity: Biology Behind Clinical and Radiological Features
by Michele Porcu, Pushpamali De Silva, Cinzia Solinas, Angelo Battaglia, Marina Schena, Mario Scartozzi, Dominique Bron, Jasjit S. Suri, Karen Willard-Gallo, Dario Sangiolo and Luca Saba
Cancers 2019, 11(3), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11030305 - 5 Mar 2019
Cited by 54 | Viewed by 6432
Abstract
The broader use of immune checkpoint blockade in clinical routine challenges clinicians in the diagnosis and management of side effects which are caused by inflammation generated by the activation of the immune response. Nearly all organs can be affected by immune-related toxicities. However, [...] Read more.
The broader use of immune checkpoint blockade in clinical routine challenges clinicians in the diagnosis and management of side effects which are caused by inflammation generated by the activation of the immune response. Nearly all organs can be affected by immune-related toxicities. However, the most frequently reported are: fatigue, rash, pruritus, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, arthralgia, decreased appetite and abdominal pain. Although these adverse events are usually mild, reversible and not frequent, an early diagnosis is crucial. Immune-related pulmonary toxicity was most frequently observed in trials of lung cancer and of melanoma patients treated with the combination of the anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen (CTLA)-4 and the anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) antibodies. The most frequent immune-related adverse event in the lung is represented by pneumonitis due to the development of infiltrates in the interstitium and in the alveoli. Clinical symptoms and radiological patterns are the key elements to be considered for an early diagnosis, rendering the differential diagnosis crucial. Diagnosis of immune-related pneumonitis may imply the temporary or definitive suspension of immunotherapy, along with the start of immuno-suppressive treatments. The aim of this work is to summarize the biological bases, clinical and radiological findings of lung toxicity under immune checkpoint blockade, underlining the importance of multidisciplinary teams for an optimal early diagnosis of this side effect, with the aim to reach an improved patient care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Signaling Pathways and Immune Checkpoint Regulation in Cancer)
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22 pages, 2251 KiB  
Article
Pan-Cancer Analyses Reveal Genomic Features of FOXM1 Overexpression in Cancer
by Carter J Barger, Connor Branick, Linda Chee and Adam R. Karpf
Cancers 2019, 11(2), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11020251 - 21 Feb 2019
Cited by 136 | Viewed by 13681
Abstract
FOXM1 is frequently overexpressed in cancer, but this has not been studied in a comprehensive manner. We utilized genotype-tissue expression (GTEx) normal and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) tumor data to define FOXM1 expression, including its isoforms, and to determine the genetic alterations [...] Read more.
FOXM1 is frequently overexpressed in cancer, but this has not been studied in a comprehensive manner. We utilized genotype-tissue expression (GTEx) normal and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) tumor data to define FOXM1 expression, including its isoforms, and to determine the genetic alterations that promote FOXM1 expression in cancer. Additionally, we used human fallopian tube epithelial (FTE) cells to dissect the role of Retinoblastoma (Rb)-E2F and Cyclin E1 in FOXM1 regulation, and a novel human embryonic kidney cell (HEK293T) CRISPR FOXM1 knockout model to define isoform-specific transcriptional programs. FOXM1 expression, at the mRNA and protein level, was significantly elevated in tumors with FOXM1 amplification, p53 inactivation, and Rb-E2F deregulation. FOXM1 expression was remarkably high in testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT), high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC), and basal breast cancer (BBC). FOXM1 expression in cancer was associated with genomic instability, as measured using aneuploidy signatures. FTE models confirmed a role for Rb-E2F signaling in FOXM1 regulation and in particular identified Cyclin E1 as a novel inducer of FOXM1 expression. Among the three FOXM1 isoforms, FOXM1c showed the highest expression in normal and tumor tissues and cancer cell lines. The CRISPR knockout model demonstrated that FOXM1b and FOXM1c are transcriptionally active, while FOXM1a is not. Finally, we were unable to confirm the existence of a FOXM1 auto-regulatory loop. This study provides significant and novel information regarding the frequency, causes, and consequences of elevated FOXM1 expression in human cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fox Proteins and Cancers: Old Proteins with Emerging New Tales)
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23 pages, 15676 KiB  
Review
State-of-the-Art of Profiling Immune Contexture in the Era of Multiplexed Staining and Digital Analysis to Study Paraffin Tumor Tissues
by Edwin Roger Parra, Alejandro Francisco-Cruz and Ignacio Ivan Wistuba
Cancers 2019, 11(2), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11020247 - 20 Feb 2019
Cited by 87 | Viewed by 10375
Abstract
Multiplexed platforms for multiple epitope detection have emerged in the last years as very powerful tools to study tumor tissues. These revolutionary technologies provide important visual techniques for tumor examination in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens to improve the understanding of the tumor microenvironment, promote [...] Read more.
Multiplexed platforms for multiple epitope detection have emerged in the last years as very powerful tools to study tumor tissues. These revolutionary technologies provide important visual techniques for tumor examination in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens to improve the understanding of the tumor microenvironment, promote new treatment discoveries, aid in cancer prevention, as well as allowing translational studies to be carried out. The aim of this review is to highlight the more recent methodologies that use multiplexed staining to study simultaneous protein identification in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissues for immune profiling, clinical research, and potential translational analysis. New multiplexed methodologies, which permit the identification of several proteins at the same time in one single tissue section, have been developed in recent years with the ability to study different cell populations, cells by cells, and their spatial distribution in different tumor specimens including whole sections, core needle biopsies, and tissue microarrays. Multiplexed technologies associated with image analysis software can be performed with a high-quality throughput assay to study cancer specimens and are important tools for new discoveries. The different multiplexed technologies described in this review have shown their utility in the study of cancer tissues and their advantages for translational research studies and application in cancer prevention and treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards New Promising Discoveries for Lung Cancer Patients: A Selection of Papers from the First Joint Meeting on Lung Cancer of the FHU OncoAge (Nice, France) and the MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX, USA))
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19 pages, 884 KiB  
Review
The Role of Platelets in the Tumor-Microenvironment and the Drug Resistance of Cancer Cells
by Phung Thanh Huong, Lap Thi Nguyen, Xuan-Bac Nguyen, Sang Kook Lee and Duc-Hiep Bach
Cancers 2019, 11(2), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11020240 - 19 Feb 2019
Cited by 93 | Viewed by 7239
Abstract
Besides the critical functions in hemostasis, thrombosis and the wounding process, platelets have been increasingly identified as active players in various processes in tumorigenesis, including angiogenesis and metastasis. Once activated, platelets can release bioactive contents such as lipids, microRNAs, and growth factors into [...] Read more.
Besides the critical functions in hemostasis, thrombosis and the wounding process, platelets have been increasingly identified as active players in various processes in tumorigenesis, including angiogenesis and metastasis. Once activated, platelets can release bioactive contents such as lipids, microRNAs, and growth factors into the bloodstream, subsequently enhancing the platelet–cancer interaction and stimulating cancer metastasis and angiogenesis. The mechanisms of treatment failure of chemotherapeutic drugs have been investigated to be associated with platelets. Therefore, understanding how platelets contribute to the tumor microenvironment may potentially identify strategies to suppress cancer angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. Herein, we present a review of recent investigations on the role of platelets in the tumor-microenvironment including angiogenesis, and metastasis, as well as targeting platelets for cancer treatment, especially in drug resistance. Full article
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31 pages, 6116 KiB  
Review
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors and Phenotypical Transformation of Cancer Cells
by Anna Wawruszak, Joanna Kalafut, Estera Okon, Jakub Czapinski, Marta Halasa, Alicja Przybyszewska, Paulina Miziak, Karolina Okla, Adolfo Rivero-Muller and Andrzej Stepulak
Cancers 2019, 11(2), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11020148 - 27 Jan 2019
Cited by 77 | Viewed by 6702
Abstract
Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDIs) are a group of potent epigenetic drugs which have been investigated for their therapeutic potential in various clinical disorders, including hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Currently, several HDIs are already in clinical use and many more are on clinical [...] Read more.
Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDIs) are a group of potent epigenetic drugs which have been investigated for their therapeutic potential in various clinical disorders, including hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Currently, several HDIs are already in clinical use and many more are on clinical trials. HDIs have shown efficacy to inhibit initiation and progression of cancer cells. Nevertheless, both pro-invasive and anti-invasive activities of HDIs have been reported, questioning their impact in carcinogenesis. The aim of this review is to compile and discuss the most recent findings on the effect of HDIs on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in human cancers. We have summarized the impact of HDIs on epithelial (E-cadherin, β-catenin) and mesenchymal (N-cadherin, vimentin) markers, EMT activators (TWIST, SNAIL, SLUG, SMAD, ZEB), as well as morphology, migration and invasion potential of cancer cells. We further discuss the use of HDIs as monotherapy or in combination with existing or novel anti-neoplastic drugs in relation to changes in EMT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Histone Modification in Cancer)
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15 pages, 630 KiB  
Review
Platinum Resistance in Ovarian Cancer: Role of DNA Repair
by Giovanna Damia and Massimo Broggini
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010119 - 20 Jan 2019
Cited by 203 | Viewed by 12999
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal gynecological cancer. It is initially responsive to cisplatin and carboplatin, two DNA damaging agents used in first line therapy. However, almost invariably, patients relapse with a tumor resistant to subsequent treatment with platinum containing drugs. [...] Read more.
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal gynecological cancer. It is initially responsive to cisplatin and carboplatin, two DNA damaging agents used in first line therapy. However, almost invariably, patients relapse with a tumor resistant to subsequent treatment with platinum containing drugs. Several mechanisms associated with the development of acquired drug resistance have been reported. Here we focused our attention on DNA repair mechanisms, which are fundamental for recognition and removal of platinum adducts and hence for the ability of these drugs to exert their activity. We analyzed the major DNA repair pathways potentially involved in drug resistance, detailing gene mutation, duplication or deletion as well as polymorphisms as potential biomarkers for drug resistance development. We dissected potential ways to overcome DNA repair-associated drug resistance thanks to the development of new combinations and/or drugs directly targeting DNA repair proteins or taking advantage of the vulnerability arising from DNA repair defects in EOCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer Chemoresistance)
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15 pages, 1387 KiB  
Review
Connexins and Integrins in Exosomes
by Motomu Shimaoka, Eiji Kawamoto, Arong Gaowa, Takayuki Okamoto and Eun Jeong Park
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010106 - 17 Jan 2019
Cited by 59 | Viewed by 7156
Abstract
Connexins and integrins, the two structurally and functionally distinct families of transmembrane proteins, have been shown to be inter-connected by various modes of cross-talk in cells, such as direct physical coupling via lateral contact, indirect physical coupling via actin and actin-binding proteins, and [...] Read more.
Connexins and integrins, the two structurally and functionally distinct families of transmembrane proteins, have been shown to be inter-connected by various modes of cross-talk in cells, such as direct physical coupling via lateral contact, indirect physical coupling via actin and actin-binding proteins, and functional coupling via signaling cascades. This connexin-integrin cross-talk exemplifies a biologically important collaboration between channels and adhesion receptors in cells. Exosomes are biological lipid-bilayer nanoparticles secreted from virtually all cells via endosomal pathways into the extracellular space, thereby mediating intercellular communications across a broad range of health and diseases, including cancer progression and metastasis, infection and inflammation, and metabolic deregulation. Connexins and integrins are embedded in the exosomal membranes and have emerged as critical regulators of intercellular communication. This concise review article will explain and discuss recent progress in better understanding the roles of connexins, integrins, and their cross-talk in cells and exosomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gap Junctions and Connexins in Cancer Formation, Progression, and Therapy)
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11 pages, 2438 KiB  
Article
Capture of Circulating Tumour Cell Clusters Using Straight Microfluidic Chips
by Arutha Kulasinghe, Jian Zhou, Liz Kenny, Ian Papautsky and Chamindie Punyadeera
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010089 - 14 Jan 2019
Cited by 75 | Viewed by 6952
Abstract
Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) are the metastatic precursors to distant disease in head and neck cancers (HNCs). Whilst the prognostic and predictive value of single CTCs have been well documented, the role of CTC clusters, which potentially have a higher metastatic capacity are [...] Read more.
Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) are the metastatic precursors to distant disease in head and neck cancers (HNCs). Whilst the prognostic and predictive value of single CTCs have been well documented, the role of CTC clusters, which potentially have a higher metastatic capacity are limited. In this study, the authors used a novel straight microfluidic chip to focus and capture CTCs. The chip offers high cell recoveries with clinically relevant numbers (10–500 cells/mL) without the need for further purification. Single CTCs were identified in 10/21 patient samples (range 2–24 CTCs/mL), CTC clusters in 9/21 patient samples (range 1–6 CTC clusters/mL) and circulating tumour microemboli (CTM) in 2/21 samples. This study demonstrated that CTC clusters contain EGFR amplified single CTCs within the cluster volume. This novel microfluidic chip demonstrates the efficient sorting and preservation of single CTCs, CTC clusters and CTMs. The authors intend to expand this study to a larger cohort to determine the clinical implication of the CTC subsets in HNC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Liquid Biopsy for Cancer)
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19 pages, 2432 KiB  
Article
Spectrum of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Phenotypes in Circulating Tumour Cells from Early Breast Cancer Patients
by Aleksandra Markiewicz, Justyna Topa, Anna Nagel, Jaroslaw Skokowski, Barbara Seroczynska, Tomasz Stokowy, Marzena Welnicka-Jaskiewicz and Anna J. Zaczek
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010059 - 9 Jan 2019
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 6406
Abstract
Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) can provide valuable prognostic information in a number of epithelial cancers. However, their detection is hampered due to their molecular heterogeneity, which can be induced by the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Therefore, current knowledge about CTCs from clinical samples [...] Read more.
Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) can provide valuable prognostic information in a number of epithelial cancers. However, their detection is hampered due to their molecular heterogeneity, which can be induced by the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Therefore, current knowledge about CTCs from clinical samples is often limited due to an inability to isolate wide spectrum of CTCs phenotypes. In the current work, we aimed at isolation and molecular characterization of CTCs with different EMT status in order to establish their clinical significance in early breast cancer patients. We have obtained CTCs-enriched blood fraction from 83 breast cancer patients in which we have tested the expression of epithelial, mesenchymal and general breast cancer CTCs markers (MGB1/HER2/CK19/CDH1/CDH2/VIM/PLS3), cancer stem cell markers (CD44, NANOG, ALDH1, OCT-4, CD133) and cluster formation gene (plakoglobin). We have shown that in the CTCs-positive patients, epithelial, epithelial-mesenchymal and mesenchymal CTCs markers were detected at a similar rate (in 28%, 24% and 24%, respectively). Mesenchymal CTCs were characterized by the most aggressive phenotype (significantly higher expression of CXCR4, uPAR, CD44, NANOG, p < 0.05 for all), presence of lymph node metastases (p = 0.043), larger tumour size (p = 0.023) and 7.33 higher risk of death in the multivariate analysis (95% CI 1.06–50.41, p = 0.04). Epithelial-mesenchymal subtype, believed to correspond to highly plastic and aggressive state, did not show significant impact on survival. Gene expression profile of samples with epithelial-mesenchymal CTCs group resembled pure epithelial or pure mesenchymal phenotypes, possibly underlining degree of EMT activation in particular patient’s sample. Molecular profiling of CTCs EMT phenotype provides more detailed and clinically informative results, proving the role of EMT in malignant cancer progression in early breast cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs))
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27 pages, 1397 KiB  
Review
Obesity, Leptin and Breast Cancer: Epidemiological Evidence and Proposed Mechanisms
by Sebastiano Andò, Luca Gelsomino, Salvatore Panza, Cinzia Giordano, Daniela Bonofiglio, Ines Barone and Stefania Catalano
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010062 - 9 Jan 2019
Cited by 149 | Viewed by 14196
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity has been steadily increasing over the past few decades in several developed and developing countries, with resultant hazardous health implications. Substantial epidemiological evidence has shown that excessive adiposity strongly influences risk, prognosis, and progression of various malignancies, including breast [...] Read more.
The prevalence of obesity has been steadily increasing over the past few decades in several developed and developing countries, with resultant hazardous health implications. Substantial epidemiological evidence has shown that excessive adiposity strongly influences risk, prognosis, and progression of various malignancies, including breast cancer. Indeed, it is now well recognized that obesity is a complex physiologic state associated with multiple molecular changes capable of modulating the behavior of breast tumor cells as well of the surrounding microenvironment. Particularly, insulin resistance, hyperactivation of insulin-like growth factor pathways, and increased levels of estrogen due to aromatization by the adipose tissue, inflammatory cytokines, and adipokines contribute to breast cancerogenesis. Among adipokines, leptin, whose circulating levels increase proportionally to total adipose tissue mass, has been identified as a key member of the molecular network in obesity. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the epidemiological link existing between obesity and breast cancer and outlines the molecular mechanisms underlying this connection. The multifaceted role of the obesity adipokine leptin in this respect is also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Obesity as a Risk Factor for Cancer)
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21 pages, 1174 KiB  
Review
Targeting Proteotoxic Stress in Cancer: A Review of the Role that Protein Quality Control Pathways Play in Oncogenesis
by Matthew Ho Zhi Guang, Emma L. Kavanagh, Luke Paul Dunne, Paul Dowling, Li Zhang, Sinéad Lindsay, Despina Bazou, Chia Yin Goh, Cathal Hanley, Giada Bianchi, Kenneth C. Anderson, Peter O’Gorman and Amanda McCann
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010066 - 9 Jan 2019
Cited by 73 | Viewed by 8777
Abstract
Despite significant advances in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics the majority of cancer unfortunately remains incurable, which has led to continued research to better understand its exceptionally diverse biology. As a result of genomic instability, cancer cells typically have elevated proteotoxic stress. Recent appreciation [...] Read more.
Despite significant advances in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics the majority of cancer unfortunately remains incurable, which has led to continued research to better understand its exceptionally diverse biology. As a result of genomic instability, cancer cells typically have elevated proteotoxic stress. Recent appreciation of this functional link between the two secondary hallmarks of cancer: aneuploidy (oxidative stress) and proteotoxic stress, has therefore led to the development of new anticancer therapies targeting this emerging “Achilles heel” of malignancy. This review highlights the importance of managing proteotoxic stress for cancer cell survival and provides an overview of the integral role proteostasis pathways play in the maintenance of protein homeostasis. We further review the efforts undertaken to exploit proteotoxic stress in multiple myeloma (as an example of a hematologic malignancy) and triple negative breast cancer (as an example of a solid tumor), and give examples of: (1) FDA-approved therapies in routine clinical use; and (2) promising therapies currently in clinical trials. Finally, we provide new insights gleaned from the use of emerging technologies to disrupt the protein secretory pathway and repurpose E3 ligases to achieve targeted protein degradation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellular Stress in Cancer Progression, Drug Resistance and Treatment)
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21 pages, 6632 KiB  
Article
Oxymatrine Attenuates Tumor Growth and Deactivates STAT5 Signaling in a Lung Cancer Xenograft Model
by Young Yun Jung, Muthu K. Shanmugam, Acharan S. Narula, Chulwon Kim, Jong Hyun Lee, Ojas A. Namjoshi, Bruce E. Blough, Gautam Sethi and Kwang Seok Ahn
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010049 - 7 Jan 2019
Cited by 92 | Viewed by 5615
Abstract
Oxymatrine (OMT) is a major alkaloid found in radix Sophorae flavescentis extract and has been reported to exhibit various pharmacological activities. We elucidated the detailed molecular mechanism(s) underlying the therapeutic actions of OMT in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and a xenograft [...] Read more.
Oxymatrine (OMT) is a major alkaloid found in radix Sophorae flavescentis extract and has been reported to exhibit various pharmacological activities. We elucidated the detailed molecular mechanism(s) underlying the therapeutic actions of OMT in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and a xenograft mouse model. Because the STAT5 signaling cascade has a significant role in regulating cell proliferation and survival in tumor cells, we hypothesized that OMT may disrupt this signaling cascade to exert its anticancer effects. We found that OMT can inhibit the constitutive activation of STAT5 by suppressing the activation of JAK1/2 and c-Src, nuclear localization, as well as STAT5 binding to DNA in A549 cells and abrogated IL-6-induced STAT5 phosphorylation in H1299 cells. We also report that a sub-optimal concentration of OMT when used in combination with a low dose of paclitaxel produced significant anti-cancer effects by inhibiting cell proliferation and causing substantial apoptosis. In a preclinical lung cancer mouse model, OMT when used in combination with paclitaxel produced a significant reduction in tumor volume. These results suggest that OMT in combination with paclitaxel can cause an attenuation of lung cancer growth both in vitro and in vivo. Full article
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26 pages, 2915 KiB  
Review
Gut Microbiota and Cancer: From Pathogenesis to Therapy
by Silvia Vivarelli, Rossella Salemi, Saverio Candido, Luca Falzone, Maria Santagati, Stefania Stefani, Francesco Torino, Giuseppe Luigi Banna, Giuseppe Tonini and Massimo Libra
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010038 - 3 Jan 2019
Cited by 379 | Viewed by 26261
Abstract
Cancer is a multifactorial pathology and it represents the second leading cause of death worldwide. In the recent years, numerous studies highlighted the dual role of the gut microbiota in preserving host’s health. Gut resident bacteria are able to produce a number of [...] Read more.
Cancer is a multifactorial pathology and it represents the second leading cause of death worldwide. In the recent years, numerous studies highlighted the dual role of the gut microbiota in preserving host’s health. Gut resident bacteria are able to produce a number of metabolites and bioproducts necessary to protect host’s and gut’s homeostasis. Conversely, several microbiota subpopulations may expand during pathological dysbiosis and therefore produce high levels of toxins capable, in turn, to trigger both inflammation and tumorigenesis. Importantly, gut microbiota can interact with the host either modulating directly the gut epithelium or the immune system. Numerous gut populating bacteria, called probiotics, have been identified as protective against the genesis of tumors. Given their capability of preserving gut homeostasis, probiotics are currently tested to help to fight dysbiosis in cancer patients subjected to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Most recently, three independent studies show that specific gut resident species may potentiate the positive outcome of anti-cancer immunotherapy. The highly significant studies, uncovering the tight association between gut microbiota and tumorigenesis, as well as gut microbiota and anti-cancer therapy, are here described. The role of the Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), as the most studied probiotic model in cancer, is also reported. Overall, according to the findings here summarized, novel strategies integrating probiotics, such as LGG, with conventional anti-cancer therapies are strongly encouraged. Full article
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39 pages, 3238 KiB  
Review
Flavonoids in Cancer and Apoptosis
by Mariam Abotaleb, Samson Mathews Samuel, Elizabeth Varghese, Sharon Varghese, Peter Kubatka, Alena Liskova and Dietrich Büsselberg
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010028 - 28 Dec 2018
Cited by 512 | Viewed by 25773
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. Although, there are many different approaches to cancer treatment, they are often painful due to adverse side effects and are sometimes ineffective due to increasing resistance to classical anti-cancer drugs or radiation therapy. Targeting [...] Read more.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. Although, there are many different approaches to cancer treatment, they are often painful due to adverse side effects and are sometimes ineffective due to increasing resistance to classical anti-cancer drugs or radiation therapy. Targeting delayed/inhibited apoptosis is a major approach in cancer treatment and a highly active area of research. Plant derived natural compounds are of major interest due to their high bioavailability, safety, minimal side effects and, most importantly, cost effectiveness. Flavonoids have gained importance as anti-cancer agents and have shown great potential as cytotoxic anti-cancer agents promoting apoptosis in cancer cells. In this review, a summary of flavonoids and their effectiveness in cancer treatment targeting apoptosis has been discussed. Full article
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22 pages, 655 KiB  
Review
NK Cell-Based Immunotherapy in Cancer Metastasis
by Seila Lorenzo-Herrero, Alejandro López-Soto, Christian Sordo-Bahamonde, Ana P Gonzalez-Rodriguez, Massimo Vitale and Segundo Gonzalez
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010029 - 28 Dec 2018
Cited by 83 | Viewed by 11500
Abstract
Metastasis represents the leading cause of cancer-related death mainly owing to the limited efficacy of current anticancer therapies on advanced malignancies. Although immunotherapy is rendering promising results in the treatment of cancer, many adverse events and factors hampering therapeutic efficacy, especially in solid [...] Read more.
Metastasis represents the leading cause of cancer-related death mainly owing to the limited efficacy of current anticancer therapies on advanced malignancies. Although immunotherapy is rendering promising results in the treatment of cancer, many adverse events and factors hampering therapeutic efficacy, especially in solid tumors and metastases, still need to be solved. Moreover, immunotherapeutic strategies have mainly focused on modulating the activity of T cells, while Natural Killer (NK) cells have only recently been taken into consideration. NK cells represent an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy owing to their innate capacity to eliminate malignant tumors in a non-Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) and non-tumor antigen-restricted manner. In this review, we analyze the mechanisms and efficacy of NK cells in the control of metastasis and we detail the immunosubversive strategies developed by metastatic cells to evade NK cell-mediated immunosurveillance. We also share current and cutting-edge clinical approaches aimed at unleashing the full anti-metastatic potential of NK cells, including the adoptive transfer of NK cells, boosting of NK cell activity, redirecting NK cell activity against metastatic cells and the release of evasion mechanisms dampening NK cell immunosurveillance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Killer Cells and Cancer Therapy)
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21 pages, 1236 KiB  
Review
Obesity-Induced TNFα and IL-6 Signaling: The Missing Link between Obesity and Inflammation—Driven Liver and Colorectal Cancers
by Lara Kern, Melanie J. Mittenbühler, Anna Juliane Vesting, Anna Lena Ostermann, Claudia Maria Wunderlich and F. Thomas Wunderlich
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010024 - 27 Dec 2018
Cited by 190 | Viewed by 13888
Abstract
Obesity promotes the development of numerous cancers, such as liver and colorectal cancers, which is at least partly due to obesity-induced, chronic, low-grade inflammation. In particular, the recruitment and activation of immune cell subsets in the white adipose tissue systemically increase proinflammatory cytokines, [...] Read more.
Obesity promotes the development of numerous cancers, such as liver and colorectal cancers, which is at least partly due to obesity-induced, chronic, low-grade inflammation. In particular, the recruitment and activation of immune cell subsets in the white adipose tissue systemically increase proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). These proinflammatory cytokines not only impair insulin action in metabolic tissues, but also favor cancer development. Here, we review the current state of knowledge on how obesity affects inflammatory TNFα and IL-6 signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma and colorectal cancers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Obesity as a Risk Factor for Cancer)
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22 pages, 7324 KiB  
Article
Effects of SAHA and EGCG on Growth Potentiation of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
by Kayla A. Lewis, Harrison R. Jordan and Trygve O. Tollefsbol
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010023 - 27 Dec 2018
Cited by 51 | Viewed by 6607
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer comprises approximately 15–20% of all breast cancers diagnosed and is nearly twice as common in black women than white women in the United States. We evaluated the effects of two epigenetic-modifying compounds on markers of growth potential in several triple-negative [...] Read more.
Triple-negative breast cancer comprises approximately 15–20% of all breast cancers diagnosed and is nearly twice as common in black women than white women in the United States. We evaluated the effects of two epigenetic-modifying compounds on markers of growth potential in several triple-negative breast cancer cell lines. Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor currently used in the treatment of cutaneous T cell lymphoma, was administered to triple-negative breast cancer cells alone or in combination with epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor isolated from green tea. The compounds affected the expression of oncogenic miR-221/222 and tumor suppressors, p27 and PTEN, in addition to estrogen receptor alpha (ERα). E-cadherin expression was increased while N-cadherin was decreased, indicating a more epithelial phenotype. In addition, the activity of DNMTs was diminished with the treatments, and there was a significant enrichment of AcH3 within the promoter of p27 and PTEN, suggesting a role of epigenetic mechanisms for the aforementioned changes. These results translated to reduced migration of the triple-negative breast cancer cells with the treatments. Together, these findings support the role of SAHA and EGCG in limiting growth and proliferation of breast cancer cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epigenetic Influence on Cancer Metastasis and/or Treatment Resistance)
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35 pages, 1360 KiB  
Review
Non-Coding RNAs in Glioma
by Ryte Rynkeviciene, Julija Simiene, Egle Strainiene, Vaidotas Stankevicius, Jurgita Usinskiene, Edita Miseikyte Kaubriene, Ingrida Meskinyte, Jonas Cicenas and Kestutis Suziedelis
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010017 - 22 Dec 2018
Cited by 104 | Viewed by 9113
Abstract
Glioma is the most aggressive brain tumor of the central nervous system. The ability of glioma cells to migrate, rapidly diffuse and invade normal adjacent tissue, their sustained proliferation, and heterogeneity contribute to an overall survival of approximately 15 months for most patients [...] Read more.
Glioma is the most aggressive brain tumor of the central nervous system. The ability of glioma cells to migrate, rapidly diffuse and invade normal adjacent tissue, their sustained proliferation, and heterogeneity contribute to an overall survival of approximately 15 months for most patients with high grade glioma. Numerous studies indicate that non-coding RNA species have critical functions across biological processes that regulate glioma initiation and progression. Recently, new data emerged, which shows that the cross-regulation between long non-coding RNAs and small non-coding RNAs contribute to phenotypic diversity of glioblastoma subclasses. In this paper, we review data of long non-coding RNA expression, which was evaluated in human glioma tissue samples during a five-year period. Thus, this review summarizes the following: (I) the role of non-coding RNAs in glioblastoma pathogenesis, (II) the potential application of non-coding RNA species in glioma-grading, (III) crosstalk between lncRNAs and miRNAs (IV) future perspectives of non-coding RNAs as biomarkers for glioma. Full article
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17 pages, 3426 KiB  
Review
Glioblastoma: Microenvironment and Niche Concept
by Davide Schiffer, Laura Annovazzi, Cristina Casalone, Cristiano Corona and Marta Mellai
Cancers 2019, 11(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11010005 - 20 Dec 2018
Cited by 146 | Viewed by 8453
Abstract
The niche concept was originally developed to describe the location of normal neural stem cells (NSCs) in the subependymal layer of the sub-ventricular zone. In this paper, its significance has been extended to the location of tumor stem cells in glioblastoma (GB) to [...] Read more.
The niche concept was originally developed to describe the location of normal neural stem cells (NSCs) in the subependymal layer of the sub-ventricular zone. In this paper, its significance has been extended to the location of tumor stem cells in glioblastoma (GB) to discuss the relationship between GB stem cells (GSCs) and endothelial cells (ECs). Their interaction is basically conceived as responsible for tumor growth, invasion and recurrence. Niches are described as the points of utmost expression of the tumor microenvironment (TME), therefore including everything in the tumor except for tumor cells: NSCs, reactive astrocytes, ECs, glioma-associated microglia/macrophages (GAMs), myeloid cells, pericytes, fibroblasts, etc. and all intrinsic and extrinsic signaling pathways. Perivascular (PVNs), perinecrotic (PNNs) and invasive niches were described from the pathological point of view, highlighting the basic significance of the EC/tumor stem cell couple. PNN development was reinterpreted based on the concept that hyperproliferative areas of GB are composed of GSCs/progenitors. TME was depicted in its function as the main regulator of everything that happens in the tumor. A particular emphasis was given to GAMs, pericytes and reactive astrocytes as important elements affecting proliferation, growth, invasion and resistance to therapies of tumor cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glioblastoma: State of the Art and Future Perspectives)
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18 pages, 2415 KiB  
Article
Immune Gene Signature Delineates a Subclass of Papillary Thyroid Cancer with Unfavorable Clinical Outcomes
by Kyuryung Kim, Sora Jeon, Tae-Min Kim and Chan Kwon Jung
Cancers 2018, 10(12), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10120494 - 5 Dec 2018
Cited by 50 | Viewed by 6316
Abstract
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) represents a heterogeneous disease with diverse clinical outcomes highlighting a need to identify robust biomarkers with clinical relevance. We applied non-negative matrix factorization-based deconvolution to publicly available gene expression profiles of thyroid cancers in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) [...] Read more.
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) represents a heterogeneous disease with diverse clinical outcomes highlighting a need to identify robust biomarkers with clinical relevance. We applied non-negative matrix factorization-based deconvolution to publicly available gene expression profiles of thyroid cancers in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) consortium. Among three metagene signatures identified, two signatures were enriched in canonical BRAF-like and RAS-like thyroid cancers with up-regulation of genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation and cell adhesions, respectively. The third metagene signature representing up-regulation of immune-related genes further segregated BRAF-like and RAS-like PTCs into their respective subgroups of immunoreactive (IR) and immunodeficient (ID), respectively. BRAF-IR PTCs showed enrichment of tumor infiltrating immune cells, tall cell variant PTC, and shorter recurrence-free survival compared to BRAF-ID PTCs. RAS-IR and RAS-ID PTC subtypes included majority of normal thyroid tissues and follicular variant PTC, respectively. Immunopathological features of PTC subtypes such as immune cell fraction, repertoire of T cell receptors, cytolytic activity, and expression level of immune checkpoints such as and PD-L1 and CTLA-4 were consistently observed in two different cohorts. Taken together, an immune-related metagene signature can classify PTCs into four molecular subtypes, featuring the distinct histologic type, genetic and transcriptional alterations, and potential clinical significance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thyroid Cancer)
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24 pages, 1554 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Oncolytic Virotherapy and Immunotherapy for Glioblastoma: A Glimmer of Hope in the Search for an Effective Therapy?
by Aleksei A. Stepanenko and Vladimir P. Chekhonin
Cancers 2018, 10(12), 492; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10120492 - 5 Dec 2018
Cited by 50 | Viewed by 6501
Abstract
To date, no targeted drugs, antibodies or combinations of chemotherapeutics have been demonstrated to be more efficient than temozolomide, or to increase efficacy of standard therapy (surgery, radiotherapy, temozolomide, steroid dexamethasone). According to recent phase III trials, standard therapy may ensure a median [...] Read more.
To date, no targeted drugs, antibodies or combinations of chemotherapeutics have been demonstrated to be more efficient than temozolomide, or to increase efficacy of standard therapy (surgery, radiotherapy, temozolomide, steroid dexamethasone). According to recent phase III trials, standard therapy may ensure a median overall survival of up to 18–20 months for adult patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma. These data explain a failure of positive non-controlled phase II trials to predict positive phase III trials and should result in revision of the landmark Stupp trial as a historical control for median overall survival in non-controlled trials. A high rate of failures in clinical trials and a lack of effective chemotherapy on the horizon fostered the development of conceptually distinct therapeutic approaches: dendritic cell/peptide immunotherapy, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy and oncolytic virotherapy. Recent early phase trials with the recombinant adenovirus DNX-2401 (Ad5-delta24-RGD), polio-rhinovirus chimera (PVSRIPO), parvovirus H-1 (ParvOryx), Toca 511 retroviral vector with 5-fluorocytosine, heat shock protein-peptide complex-96 (HSPPC-96) and dendritic cell vaccines, including DCVax-L vaccine, demonstrated that subsets of patients with glioblastoma/glioma may benefit from oncolytic virotherapy/immunotherapy (>3 years of survival after treatment). However, large controlled trials are required to prove efficacy of next-generation immunotherapeutics and oncolytic vectors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glioblastoma: State of the Art and Future Perspectives)
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20 pages, 1291 KiB  
Review
Role of BRCA Mutations in Cancer Treatment with Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase (PARP) Inhibitors
by Isabella Faraoni and Grazia Graziani
Cancers 2018, 10(12), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10120487 - 4 Dec 2018
Cited by 159 | Viewed by 11804
Abstract
Inhibition of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) activity induces synthetic lethality in mutated BRCA1/2 cancers by selectively targeting tumor cells that fail to repair DNA double strand breaks (DSBs). Clinical studies have confirmed the validity of the synthetic lethality approach and four different PARP inhibitors [...] Read more.
Inhibition of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) activity induces synthetic lethality in mutated BRCA1/2 cancers by selectively targeting tumor cells that fail to repair DNA double strand breaks (DSBs). Clinical studies have confirmed the validity of the synthetic lethality approach and four different PARP inhibitors (PARPi; olaparib, rucaparib, niraparib and talazoparib) have been approved as monotherapies for BRCA-mutated or platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer and/or for BRCA-mutated HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. PARPi therapeutic efficacy is higher against tumors harboring deleterious germline or somatic BRCA mutations than in BRCA wild-type tumors. BRCA mutations or intrinsic tumor sensitivity to platinum compounds are both regarded as indicators of deficiency in DSB repair by homologous recombination as well as of favorable response to PARPi. However, not all BRCA-mutated or platinum-responsive patients obtain clinical benefit from these agents. Conversely, a certain percentage of patients with wild-type BRCA or platinum-resistant tumors can still get benefit from PARPi. Thus, additional reliable markers need to be validated in clinical trials to select patients potentially eligible for PARPi-based therapies, in the absence of deleterious BRCA mutations or platinum sensitivity. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of action of PARPi and the clinical evidence supporting their use as anticancer drugs as well as the additional synthetic lethal partners that might confer sensitivity to PARPi in patients with wild-type BRCA tumors. Full article
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18 pages, 1809 KiB  
Review
Sensitization of Drug Resistant Cancer Cells: A Matter of Combination Therapy
by Meghan Leary, Sarah Heerboth, Karolina Lapinska and Sibaji Sarkar
Cancers 2018, 10(12), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10120483 - 4 Dec 2018
Cited by 129 | Viewed by 10814
Abstract
Cancer drug resistance is an enormous problem. It is responsible for most relapses in cancer patients following apparent remission after successful therapy. Understanding cancer relapse requires an understanding of the processes underlying cancer drug resistance. This article discusses the causes of cancer drug [...] Read more.
Cancer drug resistance is an enormous problem. It is responsible for most relapses in cancer patients following apparent remission after successful therapy. Understanding cancer relapse requires an understanding of the processes underlying cancer drug resistance. This article discusses the causes of cancer drug resistance, the current combination therapies, and the problems with the combination therapies. The rational design of combination therapy is warranted to improve the efficacy. These processes must be addressed by finding ways to sensitize the drug-resistant cancers cells to chemotherapy, and to prevent formation of drug resistant cancer cells. It is also necessary to prevent the formation of cancer progenitor cells by epigenetic mechanisms, as cancer progenitor cells are insensitive to standard therapies. In this article, we emphasize the role for the rational development of combination therapy, including epigenetic drugs, in achieving these goals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensitization Strategies in Cancer Treatment)
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29 pages, 3856 KiB  
Review
Dysregulation of Nrf2 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Role in Cancer Progression and Chemoresistance
by Azhwar Raghunath, Kiruthika Sundarraj, Frank Arfuso, Gautam Sethi and Ekambaram Perumal
Cancers 2018, 10(12), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10120481 - 3 Dec 2018
Cited by 142 | Viewed by 8814
Abstract
The liver executes versatile functions and is the chief organ for metabolism of toxicants/xenobiotics. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and the third foremost cause of cancer death worldwide. Oxidative stress is a key factor related with the development [...] Read more.
The liver executes versatile functions and is the chief organ for metabolism of toxicants/xenobiotics. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and the third foremost cause of cancer death worldwide. Oxidative stress is a key factor related with the development and progression of HCC. Nuclear factor erythroid 2 [NF-E2]-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a cytosolic transcription factor, which regulates redox homeostasis by activating the expression of an array of antioxidant response element-dependent genes. Nrf2 displays conflicting roles in normal, healthy liver and HCC; in the former, Nrf2 offers beneficial effects, whereas in the latter it causes detrimental effects favouring the proliferation and survival of HCC. Sustained Nrf2 activation has been observed in HCC and facilitates its progression and aggressiveness. This review summarizes the role and mechanism(s) of action of Nrf2 dysregulation in HCC and therapeutic options that can be employed to modulate this transcription factor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Stress Response Dysregulation in Cancer: Therapeutic Targets and Opportunities)
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33 pages, 2953 KiB  
Review
Chemoresistance and the Self-Maintaining Tumor Microenvironment
by Gulcen Yeldag, Alistair Rice and Armando Del Río Hernández
Cancers 2018, 10(12), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10120471 - 28 Nov 2018
Cited by 145 | Viewed by 9219
Abstract
The progression of cancer is associated with alterations in the tumor microenvironment, including changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) composition, matrix rigidity, hypervascularization, hypoxia, and paracrine factors. One key malignant phenotype of cancer cells is their ability to resist chemotherapeutics, and elements of the [...] Read more.
The progression of cancer is associated with alterations in the tumor microenvironment, including changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) composition, matrix rigidity, hypervascularization, hypoxia, and paracrine factors. One key malignant phenotype of cancer cells is their ability to resist chemotherapeutics, and elements of the ECM can promote chemoresistance in cancer cells through a variety of signaling pathways, inducing changes in gene expression and protein activity that allow resistance. Furthermore, the ECM is maintained as an environment that facilitates chemoresistance, since its constitution modulates the phenotype of cancer-associated cells, which themselves affect the microenvironment. In this review, we discuss how the properties of the tumor microenvironment promote chemoresistance in cancer cells, and the interplay between these external stimuli. We focus on both the response of cancer cells to the external environment, as well as the maintenance of the external environment, and how a chemoresistant phenotype emerges from the complex signaling network present. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer Chemoresistance)
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23 pages, 26745 KiB  
Article
Network Pharmacology to Unveil the Biological Basis of Health-Strengthening Herbal Medicine in Cancer Treatment
by Jiahui Zheng, Min Wu, Haiyan Wang, Shasha Li, Xin Wang, Yan Li, Dong Wang and Shao Li
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110461 - 21 Nov 2018
Cited by 95 | Viewed by 8399
Abstract
Health-strengthening (Fu-Zheng) herbs is a representative type of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) widely used for cancer treatment in China, which is in contrast to pathogen eliminating (Qu-Xie) herbs. However, the commonness in the biological basis of health-strengthening herbs remains [...] Read more.
Health-strengthening (Fu-Zheng) herbs is a representative type of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) widely used for cancer treatment in China, which is in contrast to pathogen eliminating (Qu-Xie) herbs. However, the commonness in the biological basis of health-strengthening herbs remains to be holistically elucidated. In this study, an innovative high-throughput research strategy integrating computational and experimental methods of network pharmacology was proposed, and 22 health-strengthening herbs were selected for the investigation. Additionally, 25 pathogen-eliminating herbs were included for comparison. First, based on network-based, large-scale target prediction, we analyzed the target profiles of 1446 TCM compounds. Next, the actions of 166 compounds on 420 antitumor or immune-related genes were measured using a unique high-throughput screening strategy by high-throughput sequencing, referred to as HTS2. Furthermore, the structural information and the antitumor activity of the compounds in health-strengthening and pathogen-eliminating herbs were compared. Using network pharmacology analysis, we discovered that: (1) Functionally, the predicted targets of compounds from health strengthening herbs were enriched in both immune-related and antitumor pathways, similar to those of pathogen eliminating herbs. As a case study, galloylpaeoniflorin, a compound in a health strengthening herb Radix Paeoniae Alba (Bai Shao), was found to exert antitumor effects both in vivo and in vitro. Yet the inhibitory effects of the compounds from pathogen eliminating herbs on tumor cells proliferation as a whole were significantly stronger than those in health-strengthening herbs (p < 0.001). Moreover, the percentage of assay compounds in health-strengthening herbs with the predicted targets enriched in the immune-related pathways (e.g., natural killer cell mediated cytotoxicity and antigen processing and presentation) were significantly higher than that in pathogen-eliminating herbs (p < 0.05). This finding was supported by the immune-enhancing effects of a group of compounds from health-strengthening herbs indicated by differentially expressed genes in the HTS2 results. (2) Compounds in the same herb may exhibit the same or distinguished mechanisms in cancer treatment, which was demonstrated as the compounds influence pathway gene expressions in the same or opposite directions. For example, acetyl ursolic acid and specnuezhenide in a health-strengthening herb Fructus Ligustri lucidi (Nv Zhen Zi) both upregulated gene expressions in T cell receptor signaling pathway. Together, this study suggested greater potentials in tumor immune microenvironment regulation and tumor prevention than in direct killing tumor cells of health-strengthening herbs generally, and provided a systematic strategy for unveiling the commonness in the biological basis of health-strengthening herbs in cancer treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Bioinformatics in Cancers)
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24 pages, 1786 KiB  
Review
Aberrant RNA Splicing in Cancer and Drug Resistance
by Bi-Dar Wang and Norman H. Lee
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 458; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110458 - 20 Nov 2018
Cited by 119 | Viewed by 10989
Abstract
More than 95% of the 20,000 to 25,000 transcribed human genes undergo alternative RNA splicing, which increases the diversity of the proteome. Isoforms derived from the same gene can have distinct and, in some cases, opposing functions. Accumulating evidence suggests that aberrant RNA [...] Read more.
More than 95% of the 20,000 to 25,000 transcribed human genes undergo alternative RNA splicing, which increases the diversity of the proteome. Isoforms derived from the same gene can have distinct and, in some cases, opposing functions. Accumulating evidence suggests that aberrant RNA splicing is a common and driving event in cancer development and progression. Moreover, aberrant splicing events conferring drug/therapy resistance in cancer is far more common than previously envisioned. In this review, aberrant splicing events in cancer-associated genes, namely BCL2L1, FAS, HRAS, CD44, Cyclin D1, CASP2, TMPRSS2-ERG, FGFR2, VEGF, AR and KLF6, will be discussed. Also highlighted are the functional consequences of aberrant splice variants (BCR-Abl35INS, BIM-γ, IK6, p61 BRAF V600E, CD19-∆2, AR-V7 and PIK3CD-S) in promoting resistance to cancer targeted therapy or immunotherapy. To overcome drug resistance, we discuss opportunities for developing novel strategies to specifically target the aberrant splice variants or splicing machinery that generates the splice variants. Therapeutic approaches include the development of splice variant-specific siRNAs, splice switching antisense oligonucleotides, and small molecule inhibitors targeting splicing factors, splicing factor kinases or the aberrant oncogenic protein isoforms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Resistance in Cancers)
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14 pages, 1781 KiB  
Review
Lipid Metabolic Reprogramming in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
by Hayato Nakagawa, Yuki Hayata, Satoshi Kawamura, Tomoharu Yamada, Naoto Fujiwara and Kazuhiko Koike
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 447; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110447 - 15 Nov 2018
Cited by 110 | Viewed by 10035
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming for adaptation to the local environment has been recognized as a hallmark of cancer. Although alterations in fatty acid (FA) metabolism in cancer cells have received less attention compared to other metabolic alterations such as glucose or glutamine metabolism, recent studies [...] Read more.
Metabolic reprogramming for adaptation to the local environment has been recognized as a hallmark of cancer. Although alterations in fatty acid (FA) metabolism in cancer cells have received less attention compared to other metabolic alterations such as glucose or glutamine metabolism, recent studies have uncovered the importance of lipid metabolic reprogramming in carcinogenesis. Obesity and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are well-known risk factors of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and individuals with these conditions exhibit an increased intake of dietary FAs accompanied by enhanced lipolysis of visceral adipose tissue due to insulin resistance, resulting in enormous exogenous FA supplies to hepatocytes via the portal vein and lymph vessels. This “lipid-rich condition” is highly characteristic of obesity- and NASH-driven HCC. Although the way in which HCC cells adapt to such a condition and exploit it to aid their progression is not understood, we recently obtained new insights into this mechanism through lipid metabolic reprogramming. In addition, accumulating evidence supports the importance of lipid metabolic reprogramming in various situations of hepatocarcinogenesis. Thus, in this review, we discuss the latest findings regarding the role of FA metabolism pathways in hepatocarcinogenesis, focusing on obesity- and NASH-driven lipid metabolic reprogramming. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Obesity as a Risk Factor for Cancer)
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23 pages, 1985 KiB  
Review
Impacts of Cancer on Platelet Production, Activation and Education and Mechanisms of Cancer-Associated Thrombosis
by Léa Plantureux, Diane Mège, Lydie Crescence, Françoise Dignat-George, Christophe Dubois and Laurence Panicot-Dubois
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110441 - 14 Nov 2018
Cited by 77 | Viewed by 8700
Abstract
Platelets are small anucleate cells that are traditionally described as the major effectors of hemostasis and thrombosis. However, increasing evidence indicates that platelets play several roles in the progression of malignancies and in cancer-associated thrombosis. A notable cross-communication exists between platelets and cancer [...] Read more.
Platelets are small anucleate cells that are traditionally described as the major effectors of hemostasis and thrombosis. However, increasing evidence indicates that platelets play several roles in the progression of malignancies and in cancer-associated thrombosis. A notable cross-communication exists between platelets and cancer cells. On one hand, cancer can “educate” platelets, influencing their RNA profiles, the numbers of circulating platelets and their activation states. On the other hand, tumor-educated platelets contain a plethora of active biomolecules, including platelet-specific and circulating ingested biomolecules, that are released upon platelet activation and participate in the progression of malignancy. The numerous mechanisms by which the primary tumor induces the production, activation and aggregation of platelets (also known as tumor cell induced platelet aggregation, or TCIPA) are directly related to the pro-thrombotic state of cancer patients. Moreover, the activation of platelets is critical for tumor growth and successful metastatic outbreak. The development or use of existing drugs targeting the activation of platelets, adhesive proteins responsible for cancer cell-platelet interactions and platelet agonists should be used to reduce cancer-associated thrombosis and tumor progression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Thrombosis and Haemostasis in Cancer)
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28 pages, 564 KiB  
Review
Cell Origins of High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
by Jaeyeon Kim, Eun Young Park, Olga Kim, Jeanne M. Schilder, Donna M. Coffey, Chi-Heum Cho and Robert C. Bast
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110433 - 12 Nov 2018
Cited by 163 | Viewed by 17222
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian cancer, also known as high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), is the most common and deadliest type of ovarian cancer. HGSC appears to arise from the ovary, fallopian tube, or peritoneum. As most HGSC cases present with widespread peritoneal metastases, it is [...] Read more.
High-grade serous ovarian cancer, also known as high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), is the most common and deadliest type of ovarian cancer. HGSC appears to arise from the ovary, fallopian tube, or peritoneum. As most HGSC cases present with widespread peritoneal metastases, it is often not clear where HGSC truly originates. Traditionally, the ovarian surface epithelium (OSE) was long believed to be the origin of HGSC. Since the late 1990s, the fallopian tube epithelium has emerged as a potential primary origin of HGSC. Particularly, serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC), a noninvasive tumor lesion formed preferentially in the distal fallopian tube epithelium, was proposed as a precursor for HGSC. It was hypothesized that STIC lesions would progress, over time, to malignant and metastatic HGSC, arising from the fallopian tube or after implanting on the ovary or peritoneum. Many clinical studies and several mouse models support the fallopian tube STIC origin of HGSC. Current evidence indicates that STIC may serve as a precursor for HGSC in high-risk women carrying germline BRCA1 or 2 mutations. Yet not all STIC lesions appear to progress to clinical HGSCs, nor would all HGSCs arise from STIC lesions, even in high-risk women. Moreover, the clinical importance of STIC remains less clear in women in the general population, in which 85–90% of all HGSCs arise. Recently, increasing attention has been brought to the possibility that many potential precursor or premalignant lesions, though composed of microscopically—and genetically—cancerous cells, do not advance to malignant tumors or lethal malignancies. Hence, rigorous causal evidence would be crucial to establish that STIC is a bona fide premalignant lesion for metastatic HGSC. While not all STICs may transform into malignant tumors, these lesions are clearly associated with increased risk for HGSC. Identification of the molecular characteristics of STICs that predict their malignant potential and clinical behavior would bolster the clinical importance of STIC. Also, as STIC lesions alone cannot account for all HGSCs, other potential cellular origins of HGSC need to be investigated. The fallopian tube stroma in mice, for instance, has been shown to be capable of giving rise to metastatic HGSC, which faithfully recapitulates the clinical behavior and molecular aspect of human HGSC. Elucidating the precise cell(s) of origin of HGSC will be critical for improving the early detection and prevention of ovarian cancer, ultimately reducing ovarian cancer mortality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Tumor Microenvironment of High Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer)
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16 pages, 3795 KiB  
Article
Ophiopogonin D, a Steroidal Glycoside Abrogates STAT3 Signaling Cascade and Exhibits Anti-Cancer Activity by Causing GSH/GSSG Imbalance in Lung Carcinoma
by Jong Hyun Lee, Chulwon Kim, Seok-Geun Lee, Gautam Sethi and Kwang Seok Ahn
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110427 - 8 Nov 2018
Cited by 72 | Viewed by 4032
Abstract
Natural medicinal plants are multi-targeted in nature and their anti-cancer activities are also complex and varied, thus requiring a more systematic analysis of their modes of action. Since the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is often deregulated in [...] Read more.
Natural medicinal plants are multi-targeted in nature and their anti-cancer activities are also complex and varied, thus requiring a more systematic analysis of their modes of action. Since the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is often deregulated in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) cells and tissue specimens, its negative regulation can form the basis for identification of targeted therapy. In this report, we analyzed the possible anti-cancer effects of ophiopogonin D (OP-D) and the underlying mechanisms by which OP-D exerts its actions in NSCLC. OP-D exhibited substantial suppressive activity on STAT3 signaling and this effect was found to be mediated via oxidative stress phenomena caused by disturbance in GSH/GSSG ratio. In addition, OP-D induced apoptosis, activated caspase mediated apoptotic cascade and decreased expression of various oncogenic genes. Consistently, OP-D treatment significantly reduced NSCLC tumor growth in preclinical mouse model with via decreasing levels of p-STAT3. OP-D was also found to attenuate the expression of STAT3-regulated anti-apoptosis, cell cycle regulator, and angiogenesis biomarkers. Our findings suggest that OP-D can induce apoptosis and exert anti-tumor effects by inhibition of STAT3 signaling pathways in NSCLC. Full article
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16 pages, 674 KiB  
Review
Targeting the Hippo Pathway for Breast Cancer Therapy
by Liqing Wu and Xiaolong Yang
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110422 - 5 Nov 2018
Cited by 74 | Viewed by 6857
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most prominent diseases in the world, and the treatments for BC have many limitations, such as resistance and a lack of reliable biomarkers. Currently the Hippo pathway is emerging as a tumor suppressor pathway with its [...] Read more.
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most prominent diseases in the world, and the treatments for BC have many limitations, such as resistance and a lack of reliable biomarkers. Currently the Hippo pathway is emerging as a tumor suppressor pathway with its four core components that regulate downstream transcriptional targets. In this review, we introduce the present targeted therapies of BC, and then discuss the roles of the Hippo pathway in BC. Finally, we summarize the evidence of the small molecule inhibitors that target the Hippo pathway, and then discuss the possibilities and future direction of the Hippo-targeted drugs for BC therapy. Full article
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16 pages, 427 KiB  
Review
Systemic Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Latest Advances
by Masatoshi Kudo
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 412; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110412 - 30 Oct 2018
Cited by 138 | Viewed by 11600
Abstract
Systemic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has changed drastically since the introduction of the molecular targeted agent sorafenib in 2007. Although sorafenib expanded the treatment options for extrahepatic spread (EHS) and vascular invasion, making long-term survival of patients with advanced disease achievable to [...] Read more.
Systemic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has changed drastically since the introduction of the molecular targeted agent sorafenib in 2007. Although sorafenib expanded the treatment options for extrahepatic spread (EHS) and vascular invasion, making long-term survival of patients with advanced disease achievable to a certain extent, new molecular-targeted agents are being developed as alternatives to sorafenib due to shortcomings such as its low response rate and high toxicity. Every single one of the many drugs developed during the 10-year period from 2007 to 2016 was a failure. However, during the two-year period from 2017 through 2018, four drugs—regorafenib, lenvatinib, cabozantinib, and ramucirumab—emerged successfully from clinical trials in quick succession and became available for clinical use. The efficacy of combination therapy with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus sorafenib was also first demonstrated in 2018. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors have been applied to HCC treatment and many phase III clinical trials are ongoing, not only on monotherapy with nivolumab, pembrolizumab, and tislelizumab, but also on combination therapy with checkpoint inhibitors, programmed death-1 (PD-1) or PD-ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibody plus a molecular targeted agent (bevacizumab) or the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) antibody, tremelimumab. These combination therapies have shown higher response rates than PD-1/PD-L1 monotherapy alone, suggesting a synergistic effect by combination therapy in early phases; therefore, further results are eagerly awaited. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Drug Resistance and Novel Therapies in Cancers)
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18 pages, 1087 KiB  
Review
Cancer Associated Fibroblasts: Naughty Neighbors That Drive Ovarian Cancer Progression
by Subramanyam Dasari, Yiming Fang and Anirban K. Mitra
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110406 - 29 Oct 2018
Cited by 81 | Viewed by 7069
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy, and patient prognosis has not improved significantly over the last several decades. In order to improve therapeutic approaches and patient outcomes, there is a critical need for focused research towards better understanding of the disease. [...] Read more.
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy, and patient prognosis has not improved significantly over the last several decades. In order to improve therapeutic approaches and patient outcomes, there is a critical need for focused research towards better understanding of the disease. Recent findings have revealed that the tumor microenvironment plays an essential role in promoting cancer progression and metastasis. The tumor microenvironment consists of cancer cells and several different types of normal cells recruited and reprogrammed by the cancer cells to produce factors beneficial to tumor growth and spread. These normal cells present within the tumor, along with the various extracellular matrix proteins and secreted factors, constitute the tumor stroma and can compose 10–60% of the tumor volume. Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a major constituent of the tumor microenvironment, and play a critical role in promoting many aspects of tumor function. This review will describe the various hypotheses about the origin of CAFs, their major functions in the tumor microenvironment in ovarian cancer, and will discuss the potential of targeting CAFs as a possible therapeutic approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Tumor Microenvironment of High Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer)
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17 pages, 10165 KiB  
Article
Prolonged Idasanutlin (RG7388) Treatment Leads to the Generation of p53-Mutated Cells
by Lukasz Skalniak, Justyna Kocik, Justyna Polak, Anna Skalniak, Monika Rak, Agnieszka Wolnicka-Glubisz and Tad A. Holak
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 396; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110396 - 24 Oct 2018
Cited by 48 | Viewed by 6541
Abstract
The protein p53 protects the organism against carcinogenic events by the induction of cell cycle arrest and DNA repair program upon DNA damage. Virtually all cancers inactivate p53 either by mutations/deletions of the TP53 gene or by boosting negative regulation of p53 activity. [...] Read more.
The protein p53 protects the organism against carcinogenic events by the induction of cell cycle arrest and DNA repair program upon DNA damage. Virtually all cancers inactivate p53 either by mutations/deletions of the TP53 gene or by boosting negative regulation of p53 activity. The overexpression of MDM2 protein is one of the most common mechanisms utilized by p53wt cancers to keep p53 inactive. Inhibition of MDM2 action by its antagonists has proved its anticancer potential in vitro and is now tested in clinical trials. However, the prolonged treatment of p53wt cells with MDM2 antagonists leads to the development of secondary resistance, as shown first for Nutlin-3a, and later for three other small molecules. In the present study, we show that secondary resistance occurs also after treatment of p53wt cells with idasanutlin (RG7388, RO5503781), which is the only MDM2 antagonist that has passed phase II and entered phase III clinical trials, so far. Idasanutlin strongly activates p53, as evidenced by the induction of p21 expression and potent cell cycle arrest in all the three cell lines tested, i.e., MCF-7, U-2 OS, and SJSA-1. Notably, apoptosis was induced only in SJSA-1 cells, while MCF-7 and U-2 OS cells were able to restore the proliferation upon the removal of idasanutlin. Moreover, idasanutlin-treated U-2 OS cells could be cultured for long time periods in the presence of the drug. This prolonged treatment led to the generation of p53-mutated resistant cell populations. This resistance was generated de novo, as evidenced by the utilization of monoclonal U-2 OS subpopulations. Thus, although idasanutlin presents much improved activities compared to its precursor, it displays the similar weaknesses, which are limited elimination of cancer cells and the generation of p53-mutated drug-resistant subpopulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer Chemoresistance)
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17 pages, 2707 KiB  
Article
Reduction of Human Glioblastoma Spheroids Using Cold Atmospheric Plasma: The Combined Effect of Short- and Long-Lived Reactive Species
by Angela Privat-Maldonado, Yury Gorbanev, Sylvia Dewilde, Evelien Smits and Annemie Bogaerts
Cancers 2018, 10(11), 394; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10110394 - 23 Oct 2018
Cited by 72 | Viewed by 6938
Abstract
Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a promising technology against multiple types of cancer. However, the current findings on the effect of CAP on two-dimensional glioblastoma cultures do not consider the role of the tumour microenvironment. The aim of this study was to determine [...] Read more.
Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a promising technology against multiple types of cancer. However, the current findings on the effect of CAP on two-dimensional glioblastoma cultures do not consider the role of the tumour microenvironment. The aim of this study was to determine the ability of CAP to reduce and control glioblastoma spheroid tumours in vitro. Three-dimensional glioblastoma spheroid tumours (U87-Red, U251-Red) were consecutively treated directly and indirectly with a CAP using dry He, He + 5% H2O or He + 20% H2O. The cytotoxicity and spheroid shrinkage were monitored using live imaging. The reactive oxygen and nitrogen species produced in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were measured by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and colourimetry. Cell migration was also assessed. Our results demonstrate that consecutive CAP treatments (He + 20% H2O) substantially shrank U87-Red spheroids and to a lesser degree, U251-Red spheroids. The cytotoxic effect was due to the short- and long-lived species delivered by CAP: they inhibited spheroid growth, reduced cell migration and decreased proliferation in CAP-treated spheroids. Direct treatments were more effective than indirect treatments, suggesting the importance of CAP-generated, short-lived species for the growth inhibition and cell cytotoxicity of solid glioblastoma tumours. We concluded that CAP treatment can effectively reduce glioblastoma tumour size and restrict cell migration, thus demonstrating the potential of CAP therapies for glioblastoma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glioblastoma: State of the Art and Future Perspectives)
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21 pages, 996 KiB  
Review
Cancer-Associated Thrombosis: An Overview of Mechanisms, Risk Factors, and Treatment
by Norbaini Binti Abdol Razak, Gabrielle Jones, Mayank Bhandari, Michael C. Berndt and Pat Metharom
Cancers 2018, 10(10), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10100380 - 11 Oct 2018
Cited by 393 | Viewed by 24641
Abstract
Cancer-associated thrombosis is a major cause of mortality in cancer patients, the most common type being venous thromboembolism (VTE). Several risk factors for developing VTE also coexist with cancer patients, such as chemotherapy and immobilisation, contributing to the increased risk cancer patients have [...] Read more.
Cancer-associated thrombosis is a major cause of mortality in cancer patients, the most common type being venous thromboembolism (VTE). Several risk factors for developing VTE also coexist with cancer patients, such as chemotherapy and immobilisation, contributing to the increased risk cancer patients have of developing VTE compared with non-cancer patients. Cancer cells are capable of activating the coagulation cascade and other prothrombotic properties of host cells, and many anticancer treatments themselves are being described as additional mechanisms for promoting VTE. This review will give an overview of the main thrombotic complications in cancer patients and outline the risk factors for cancer patients developing cancer-associated thrombosis, focusing on VTE as it is the most common complication observed in cancer patients. The multiple mechanisms involved in cancer-associated thrombosis, including the role of anticancer drugs, and a brief outline of the current treatment for cancer-associated thrombosis will also be discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Thrombosis and Haemostasis in Cancer)
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15 pages, 3861 KiB  
Article
Microenvironmental pH and Exosome Levels Interplay in Human Cancer Cell Lines of Different Histotypes
by Mariantonia Logozzi, Davide Mizzoni, Daniela F. Angelini, Rossella Di Raimo, Mario Falchi, Luca Battistini and Stefano Fais
Cancers 2018, 10(10), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10100370 - 5 Oct 2018
Cited by 150 | Viewed by 7815
Abstract
Exosomes are extracellular nanovesicles primarily involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases including cancer. This study was set out from recent evidence that extracellular acidity may increase the exosome release by cancer cells. However, this preliminary evidence did not provide solid information on [...] Read more.
Exosomes are extracellular nanovesicles primarily involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases including cancer. This study was set out from recent evidence that extracellular acidity may increase the exosome release by cancer cells. However, this preliminary evidence did not provide solid information on whether the pH-dependent exosome over-release represents a common feature of all cancers. To the purpose of demonstrating that cancer acidity is a major determinant in inducing an increased exosome release by human cancer cells, we evaluated human tumor cell lines deriving from either colon, breast, prostate cancers, melanoma, or osteosarcoma. All cell lines were cultured in either the current 7.4 pH or the typical pH of cancer that is 6.5. The levels of released extracellular vesicles were measured by protein counts, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and nanoscale flow cytometry. The results showed that pH 6.5 induced a remarkable increase in exosome release, and buffering the medium significantly reduced the exosome release in all cancers. With these results, we provide, for the first time, evidence that tumor acidity and exosome levels represent common cancer phenotypes. Full article
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13 pages, 1055 KiB  
Review
Bipolar Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Ovarian Cancer as Targets for Therapy
by Vijayalaxmi Gupta, Fiona Yull and Dineo Khabele
Cancers 2018, 10(10), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10100366 - 29 Sep 2018
Cited by 74 | Viewed by 7036
Abstract
Ovarian cancer, a rare but fatal disease, has been a challenging area in the field of gynecological cancer. Ovarian cancer is characterized by peritoneal metastasis, which is facilitated by a cross-talk between tumor cells and other cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In [...] Read more.
Ovarian cancer, a rare but fatal disease, has been a challenging area in the field of gynecological cancer. Ovarian cancer is characterized by peritoneal metastasis, which is facilitated by a cross-talk between tumor cells and other cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In epithelial ovarian cancer, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) constitute over 50% of cells in the peritoneal TME and malignant ascites, and are potential targets for therapy. Here, we review the bipolar nature of TAMs and the evolving strategies to target TAMs in ovarian cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Tumor Microenvironment of High Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer)
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22 pages, 306 KiB  
Review
The Current Status and Future Prospects of Oncolytic Viruses in Clinical Trials against Melanoma, Glioma, Pancreatic, and Breast Cancers
by Ibrahim Ragab Eissa, Itzel Bustos-Villalobos, Toru Ichinose, Shigeru Matsumura, Yoshinori Naoe, Noriyuki Miyajima, Daishi Morimoto, Nobuaki Mukoyama, Wu Zhiwen, Maki Tanaka, Hitoki Hasegawa, Seiji Sumigama, Branko Aleksic, Yasuhiro Kodera and Hideki Kasuya
Cancers 2018, 10(10), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers10100356 - 26 Sep 2018
Cited by 119 | Viewed by 10291
Abstract
Oncolytic viral therapy has been accepted as a standard immunotherapy since talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC, Imlygic®) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) for melanoma treatment in 2015. Various oncolytic viruses (OVs), such as HF10 [...] Read more.
Oncolytic viral therapy has been accepted as a standard immunotherapy since talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC, Imlygic®) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) for melanoma treatment in 2015. Various oncolytic viruses (OVs), such as HF10 (Canerpaturev—C-REV) and CVA21 (CAVATAK), are now actively being developed in phase II as monotherapies, or in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors against melanoma. Moreover, in glioma, several OVs have clearly demonstrated both safety and a promising efficacy in the phase I clinical trials. Additionally, the safety of several OVs, such as pelareorep (Reolysin®), proved their safety and efficacy in combination with paclitaxel in breast cancer patients, but the outcomes of OVs as monotherapy against breast cancer have not provided a clear therapeutic strategy for OVs. The clinical trials of OVs against pancreatic cancer have not yet demonstrated efficacy as either monotherapy or as part of combination therapy. However, there are several oncolytic viruses that have successfully proved their efficacy in different preclinical models. In this review, we mainly focused on the oncolytic viruses that transitioned into clinical trials against melanoma, glioma, pancreatic, and breast cancers. Hence, we described the current status and future prospects of OVs clinical trials against melanoma, glioma, pancreatic, and breast cancers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oncolytic Virotherapy)
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