Showing papers in "Oncotarget in 2017"

Combination therapy in combating cancer.

Abstract: // Reza Bayat Mokhtari 1,2,4 , Tina S. Homayouni 1 , Narges Baluch 3 , Evgeniya Morgatskaya 1 , Sushil Kumar 1 , Bikul Das 4 and Herman Yeger 1,2 1 Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada 2 Department of Paediatric Laboratory Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children and Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada 3 Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada 4 Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, The Forsyth Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA Correspondence to: Herman Yeger, email: // Reza Bayat Mokhtari, email: // Keywords : Nrf2-Keap1, HIF-1alpha, carbonic anhydrase 9 (CAIX), histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (CAI) Received : October 19, 2016 Accepted : February 27, 2017 Published : March 30, 2017 Abstract Combination therapy, a treatment modality that combines two or more therapeutic agents, is a cornerstone of cancer therapy. The amalgamation of anti-cancer drugs enhances efficacy compared to the mono-therapy approach because it targets key pathways in a characteristically synergistic or an additive manner. This approach potentially reduces drug resistance, while simultaneously providing therapeutic anti-cancer benefits, such as reducing tumour growth and metastatic potential, arresting mitotically active cells, reducing cancer stem cell populations, and inducing apoptosis. The 5-year survival rates for most metastatic cancers are still quite low, and the process of developing a new anti-cancer drug is costly and extremely time-consuming. Therefore, new strategies that target the survival pathways that provide efficient and effective results at an affordable cost are being considered. One such approach incorporates repurposing therapeutic agents initially used for the treatment of different diseases other than cancer. This approach is effective primarily when the FDA-approved agent targets similar pathways found in cancer. Because one of the drugs used in combination therapy is already FDA-approved, overall costs of combination therapy research are reduced. This increases cost efficiency of therapy, thereby benefiting the “medically underserved”. In addition, an approach that combines repurposed pharmaceutical agents with other therapeutics has shown promising results in mitigating tumour burden. In this systematic review, we discuss important pathways commonly targeted in cancer therapy. Furthermore, we also review important repurposed or primary anti-cancer agents that have gained popularity in clinical trials and research since 2012.

The regulation of β-catenin activity and function in cancer: therapeutic opportunities.

Abstract: // Shuang Shang 1,* , Fang Hua 1,* and Zhuo-Wei Hu 1 1 Immunology and Cancer Pharmacology Group, State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China * These authors have contributed equally to this work Correspondence to: Zhuo-Wei Hu, email: // Keywords : Wnt signaling, protein stability, subcellular localization, transcriptional regulation, cancer therapy Received : December 20, 2016 Accepted : February 15, 2017 Published : February 25, 2017 Abstract Wnt/β-catenin signaling is an evolutionarily conserved and versatile pathway that is known to be involved in embryonic development, tissue homeostasis and a wide variety of human diseases. Aberrant activation of this pathway gives rise to the accumulation of β-catenin in the nucleus and promotes the transcription of many oncogenes such as c-Myc and CyclinD-1 . As a result, it contributes to carcinogenesis and tumor progression of several cancers, including colon cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer and ovarian cancer. β-Catenin is a pivotal component of the Wnt signaling pathway and it is tightly regulated at three hierarchical levels: protein stability, subcellular localization and transcriptional activity. Uncovering the regulatory mechanisms of β-catenin will provide new insights into the pathogenesis of cancer and other diseases, as well as new therapeutic strategies against these diseases. In this review we dissect the concrete regulatory mechanisms of β-catenin from three aspects mentioned above. Then we focus on the role of β-catenin in cancer initiation, progression, dormancy, immunity and cancer stem cell maintenance. At last, we summarize the recent progress in the development of agents for the pharmacological modulation of β-catenin activity in cancer therapy.

The molecular mechanisms of chemoresistance in cancers.

Abstract: // Hua-Chuan Zheng 1 1 Department of Experimental Oncology and Animal Center, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China Correspondence to: Hua-Chuan Zheng, email: zheng_huachuan@hotmail.com Keywords: cancer, chemoresistance, molecular mechanisms, chemotherapy Received: March 31, 2017 Accepted: June 24, 2017 Published: July 06, 2017 ABSTRACT Overcoming intrinsic and acquired drug resistance is a major challenge in treating cancer patients because chemoresistance causes recurrence, cancer dissemination and death. This review summarizes numerous molecular aspects of multi-resistance, including transporter pumps, oncogenes (EGFR, PI3K/Akt, Erk and NF-κB), tumor suppressor gene (p53), mitochondrial alteration, DNA repair, autophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer stemness, and exosome. The chemoresistance-related proteins are localized to extracellular ligand, membrane receptor, cytosolic signal messenger, and nuclear transcription factors for various events, including proliferation, apoptosis, EMT, autophagy and exosome. Their cross-talk frequently appears, such as the regulatory effects of EGFR-Akt-NF-κB signal pathway on the transcription of Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and survivin or EMT-related stemness. It is essential for the realization of the target, individualized and combine therapy to clarify these molecular mechanisms, explore the therapy target, screen chemosensitive population, and determine the efficacy of chemoreagents by cell culture and orthotopic model.

An emerging function of circRNA-miRNAs-mRNA axis in human diseases.

Abstract: // Dawei Rong 1, * , Handong Sun 3, * , Zhouxiao Li 1 , Shuheng Liu 2 , Chaoxi Dong 1 , Kai Fu 1 , Weiwei Tang 1 and Hongyong Cao 1 1 Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China 2 Department of Neurosurgery, The First affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China 3 Department of Oncology Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China * Indicates both are first authors Correspondence to: Hongyong Cao, email: caohongy6167@163.com Weiwei Tang, email: 1243773473twww@sina.com Keywords: circular RNA, back-splicing, microRNA sponge, tumorgenesis Received: February 25, 2017 Accepted: May 01, 2017 Published: July 10, 2017 ABSTRACT Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a novel class of long noncoding RNAs, are characterized by a covalently closed continuous loop without 5’ or 3’ polarities structure and have been widely found in thousands of lives including plants, animals and human beings. Utilizing the high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) technology, recent findings have indicated thata great deal of circRNAs, which are endogenous, stable, widely expressed in mammalian cells, often exhibit cell type-specific, tissue-specific or developmental-stage-specific expression. Evidences are arising that some circRNAs might regulate microRNA (miRNA) function as microRNA sponges and play a significant role in transcriptional control. circRNAs associate with related miRNAs and the circRNA-miRNA axes are involved in a serious of disease pathways such as apoptosis, vascularization, invasion and metastasis. In this review, we generalize and analyse the aspects including synthesis, characteristics, classification, and several regulatory functions of circRNAs and highlight the association between circRNAs dysregulation by circRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis and sorts of diseases including cancer- related and non-cancer diseases.”

The role of p53 in cancer drug resistance and targeted chemotherapy

Abstract: // Karin Hientz 1 , Andre Mohr 1 , Dipita Bhakta-Guha 2 and Thomas Efferth 1 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany 2 School of Chemical and Bio Technology, SASTRA University, Tamil Nadu, India Correspondence to: Thomas Efferth, email: // Keywords : cytotoxic chemotherapy, drug resistance, medicinal chemistry, prognostic factors, targeted chemotherapy Received : July 10, 2016 Accepted : October 13, 2016 Published : November 19, 2016 Abstract Cancer has long been a grievous disease complicated by innumerable players aggravating its cure. Many clinical studies demonstrated the prognostic relevance of the tumor suppressor protein p53 for many human tumor types. Overexpression of mutated p53 with reduced or abolished function is often connected to resistance to standard medications, including cisplatin, alkylating agents (temozolomide), anthracyclines, (doxorubicin), antimetabolites (gemcitabine), antiestrogenes (tamoxifen) and EGFR-inhibitors (cetuximab). Such mutations in the TP53 gene are often accompanied by changes in the conformation of the p53 protein. Small molecules that restore the wild-type conformation of p53 and, consequently, rebuild its proper function have been identified. These promising agents include PRIMA-1, MIRA-1, and several derivatives of the thiosemicarbazone family. In addition to mutations in p53 itself, p53 activity may be also be impaired due to alterations in p53’s regulating proteins such as MDM2. MDM2 functions as primary cellular p53 inhibitor and deregulation of the MDM2/p53-balance has serious consequences. MDM2 alterations often result in its overexpression and therefore promote inhibition of p53 activity. To deal with this problem, a judicious approach is to employ MDM2 inhibitors. Several promising MDM2 inhibitors have been described such as nutlins, benzodiazepinediones or spiro-oxindoles as well as novel compound classes such as xanthone derivatives and trisubstituted aminothiophenes. Furthermore, even naturally derived inhibitor compounds such as α-mangostin, gambogic acid and siladenoserinols have been discovered. In this review, we discuss in detail such small molecules that play a pertinent role in affecting the p53-MDM2 signaling axis and analyze their potential as cancer chemotherapeutics.

Impacts of cigarette smoking on immune responsiveness: Up and down or upside down?

Abstract: // Feifei Qiu 1 , Chun-Ling Liang 1 , Huazhen Liu 1 , Yu-Qun Zeng 2 , Shaozhen Hou 3 , Song Huang 3 , Xiaoping Lai 3 , Zhenhua Dai 1 1 Section of Immunology, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences and Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China 2 Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China 3 School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China Correspondence to: Zhenhua Dai, email: zdai2009@outlook.com Keywords: cigarette smoking, immunoregulation, adaptive immunity, and innate immunity Received: September 16, 2016 Accepted: November 12, 2016 Published: November 25, 2016 ABSTRACT Cigarette smoking is associated with numerous diseases and poses a serious challenge to the current healthcare system worldwide. Smoking impacts both innate and adaptive immunity and plays dual roles in regulating immunity by either exacerbation of pathogenic immune responses or attenuation of defensive immunity. Adaptive immune cells affected by smoking mainly include T helper cells (Th1/Th2/Th17), CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells, CD8+ T cells, B cells and memory T/B lymphocytes while innate immune cells impacted by smoking are mostly DCs, macrophages and NK cells. Complex roles of cigarette smoke have resulted in numerous diseases, including cardiovascular, respiratory and autoimmune diseases, allergies, cancers and transplant rejection etc. Although previous reviews have described the effects of smoking on various diseases and regional immunity associated with specific diseases, a comprehensive and updated review is rarely seen to demonstrate impacts of smoking on general immunity and, especially on major components of immune cells. Here, we aim to systematically and objectively review the influence of smoking on major components of both innate and adaptive immune cells, and summarize cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying effects of cigarette smoking on the immune system. The molecular pathways impacted by cigarette smoking involve NFκB, MAP kinases and histone modification. Further investigations are warranted to understand the exact mechanisms responsible for smoking-mediated immunopathology and to answer lingering questions over why cigarette smoking is always harmful rather than beneficial even though it exerts dual effects on immune responses.

Cold atmospheric plasma, a novel promising anti-cancer treatment modality.

Abstract: // Dayun Yan 1 , Jonathan H. Sherman 2 and Michael Keidar 1 1 Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The George Washington University, NW, Washington, DC, USA 2 Neurological Surgery, The George Washington University, NW, Washington, DC, USA Correspondence to: Dayun Yan, email: // Michael Keidar, email: // Keywords : cold plasma, cancer treatment, reactive species, selectivity Received : September 14, 2016 Accepted : October 29, 2016 Published : November 11, 2016 Abstract Over the past decade, cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), a near room temperature ionized gas has shown its promising application in cancer therapy. Two CAP devices, namely dielectric barrier discharge and plasma jet, show significantly anti-cancer capacity over dozens of cancer cell lines in vitro and several subcutaneous xenograft tumors in vivo. In contrast to conventional anti-cancer approaches and drugs, CAP is a selective anti-cancer treatment modality. Thus far establishing the chemical and molecular mechanism of the anti-cancer capacity of CAP is far from complete. In this review, we provide a comprehensive introduction of the basics of CAP, state of the art research in this field, the primary challenges, and future directions to cancer biologists.

Porphyrin photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy and its applications.

Abstract: // Jiayuan Kou 1, 2 , Dou Dou 3 and Liming Yang 1 1 Department of Pathophysiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China 2 Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China 3 Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, PR China Correspondence to: Liming Yang, email: limingyang@ems.hrbmu.edu.cn Keywords: porphyrin photosensitizers, photodynamic therapy, tumor, application Received: April 25, 2017 Accepted: July 29, 2017 Published: August 11, 2017 ABSTRACT In 1841, the extraction of hematoporphyrin from dried blood by removing iron marked the birth of the photosensitizer. The last twenty years has witnessed extensive research in the application of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in tumor-bearing (or other diseases) animal models and patients. The period has seen development of photosensitizers from the first to the third generation, and their evolution from simple to more complex entities. This review focuses on porphyrin photosensitizers and their effect on tumors, mediated via several pathways involved in cell necrosis, apoptosis or autophagic cell death, and the preventive and therapeutic application of PDT against atherosclerosis.

A versatile system for rapid multiplex genome-edited CAR T cell generation

Abstract: // Jiangtao Ren 1 , Xuhua Zhang 1 , Xiaojun Liu 1 , Chongyun Fang 1 , Shuguang Jiang 1 , Carl H. June 1, 2 , Yangbing Zhao 1, 2 1 Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA 2 Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA Correspondence to: Yangbing Zhao, email: yangbing@upenn.edu Keywords: CRISPR/CAS9, T lymphocytes, chimeric antigen receptors, PD-1, CD95 Received: November 18, 2016 Accepted: January 27, 2017 Published: February 09, 2017 ABSTRACT The therapeutic potential of CRISPR system has already been demonstrated in many instances and begun to overlap with the rapidly expanding field of cancer immunotherapy, especially on the production of genetically modified T cell receptor or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Efficient genomic disruption of multiple gene loci to generate universal donor cells, as well as potent effector T cells resistant to multiple inhibitory pathways such as PD-1 and CTLA4 is an attractive strategy for cell therapy. In this study, we accomplished rapid and efficient multiplex genomic editing, and re-directing T cells with antigen specific CAR via a one-shot CRISPR protocol by incorporation of multiple gRNAs in a CAR lentiviral vector. High efficient double knockout of endogenous TCR and HLA class I could be easily achieved to generate allogeneic universal CAR T cells. We also generated Fas-resistant universal CAR T cells by triple gene disruption. Simultaneous gene editing of four gene loci using the one-shot CRISPR protocol to generate allogeneic universal T cells deficient of both PD1 and CTLA-4 was also attempted.

The cornucopia of meaningful leads: Applying deep adversarial autoencoders for new molecule development in oncology

Abstract: // Artur Kadurin 1, 2, 3, 4 , Alexander Aliper 2 , Andrey Kazennov 2, 7 , Polina Mamoshina 2, 5 , Quentin Vanhaelen 2 , Kuzma Khrabrov 1 , Alex Zhavoronkov 2, 6, 7 1 Search Department, Mail.Ru Group Ltd., Moscow, Russia 2 Pharmaceutical Artificial Intelligence Department, Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University at Eastern, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 3 Big Data and Text Analysis Laboratory, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russia 4 St. Petersburg Department of V.A. Steklov Institute of Mathematics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Petersburg, Russia 5 Department of Computer Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK 6 The Biogerontology Research Foundation, Trevissome Park, Truro TR4 8UN, UK 7 Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia Correspondence to: Alex Zhavoronkov, email: alex@insilicomedicine.com Keywords: generative adversarian networks, adversarial autoencoder, deep learning, drug discovery, artificial intelligence Received: June 14, 2016 Accepted: November 24, 2016 Published: December 22, 2016 ABSTRACT Recent advances in deep learning and specifically in generative adversarial networks have demonstrated surprising results in generating new images and videos upon request even using natural language as input. In this paper we present the first application of generative adversarial autoencoders (AAE) for generating novel molecular fingerprints with a defined set of parameters. We developed a 7-layer AAE architecture with the latent middle layer serving as a discriminator. As an input and output the AAE uses a vector of binary fingerprints and concentration of the molecule. In the latent layer we also introduced a neuron responsible for growth inhibition percentage, which when negative indicates the reduction in the number of tumor cells after the treatment. To train the AAE we used the NCI-60 cell line assay data for 6252 compounds profiled on MCF-7 cell line. The output of the AAE was used to screen 72 million compounds in PubChem and select candidate molecules with potential anti-cancer properties. This approach is a proof of concept of an artificially-intelligent drug discovery engine, where AAEs are used to generate new molecular fingerprints with the desired molecular properties.

Recurrent glioma clinical trial, CheckMate-143: the game is not over yet

Abstract: // Anna C. Filley 1 , Mario Henriquez 1 and Mahua Dey 1 1 Department of Neurosurgery, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA Correspondence to: Mahua Dey, email: mdey@iu.edu Keywords: gliolastoma, checkpoint inhibitor, PD-1/PD-L1, malignant glioma, immunotherapy Received: July 13, 2017 Accepted: September 08, 2017 Published: October 06, 2017 ABSTRACT Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common, and aggressive, primary brain tumor in adults. With a median patient survival of less than two years, GBM represents one of the biggest therapeutic challenges of the modern era. Even with the best available treatment, recurrence rates are nearly 100% and therapeutic options at the time of relapse are extremely limited. Nivolumab, an anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) monoclonal antibody, has provided significant clinical benefits in the treatment of various advanced cancers and represented a promising therapy for primary and recurrent GBM. CheckMate 143 (NCT 02017717) was the first large randomized clinical trial of PD pathway inhibition in the setting of GBM, including a comparison of nivolumab and the anti-VEGF antibody, bevacizumab, in the treatment of recurrent disease. However, preliminary results, recently announced in a WFNOS 2017 abstract, demonstrated a failure of nivolumab to prolong overall survival of patients with recurrent GBM, and this arm of the trial was prematurely closed. In this review, we discuss the basic concepts underlying the rational to target PD pathway in GBM, address implications of using immune checkpoint inhibitors in central nervous system malignancies, provide a rationale for possible reasons contributing to the failure of nivolumab to prolong survival in patients with recurrent disease, and analyze the future role of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of GBM.

Mesenchymal stem cells release exosomes that transfer miRNAs to endothelial cells and promote angiogenesis

Abstract: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been found to benefit patients with a variety of ischemic diseases via promoting angiogenesis. It is also well established that exosomes secreted from MSCs deliver bioactive molecules, including microRNAs (miRs) to recipient cells. Therefore, we hypothesized that exosomes secreted from MSCs deliver miRs into endothelial cells and mediate angiogenesis. The pro-angiogenic stimulatory capacity of exosomes was investigated using tube-like structure formation and spheroid-based sprouting of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and in vivo Matrigel plug assay. The secretion of pro-angiogenic miRs (pro-angiomiRs) from MSCs into culture medium and transfer of the miRs to HUVECs were confirmed using real-time quantitative PCR. Supplementation of the exosome secretion blocker GW4869 (10 μM) reduced the pro-angiomiRs in the MSC-derived conditioned medium (CdMMSC). Addition of exosomes isolated from CdMMSC could directly 1) promote HUVEC tube-like structure formation in vitro; 2) mobilize endothelial cells into Matrigel plug subcutaneously transplanted into mice; and 3) increase blood flow inside Matrigel plug. Fluorescence tracking showed that the exosomes were internalized rapidly by HUVECs causing an upregulated expression of pro-angiomiRs in HUVECs. Loss-and-gain function of the pro-angiomiRs (e.g., miR-30b) in MSCs significantly altered the pro-angiogenic properties of these MSC-derived exosomes, which could be associated with the regulation of their targets in HUVECs. These results suggest that exosomal transfer of pro-angiogenic miRs plays an important role in MSC mediated angiogenesis and stem cell-to-endothelial cell communication.

Cancer-associated fibroblasts release exosomal microRNAs that dictate an aggressive phenotype in breast cancer

Abstract: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the major components of the tumor microenvironment. They may drive tumor progression, although the mechanisms involved are still poorly understood. Exosomes have emerged as important mediators of intercellular communication in cancer. They mediate horizontal transfer of microRNAs (miRs), mRNAs and proteins, thus affecting breast cancer progression. Differential expression profile analysis identified three miRs (miRs -21, -378e, and -143) increased in exosomes from CAFs as compared from normal fibroblasts. Immunofluorescence indicated that exosomes may be transferred from CAFs to breast cancer cells, releasing their cargo miRs. Breast cancer cells (BT549, MDA-MB-231, and T47D lines) exposed to CAF exosomes or transfected with those miRs exhibited a significant increased capacity to form mammospheres, increased stem cell and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, and anchorage-independent cell growth. These effects were reverted by transfection with anti-miRs. Similarly to CAF exosomes, normal fibroblast exosomes transfected with miRs -21, -378e, and -143 promoted the stemness and EMT phenotype of breast cancer cells. Thus, we provided evidence for the first time of the role of CAF exosomes and their miRs in the induction of the stemness and EMT phenotype in different breast cancer cell lines. Indeed, CAFs strongly promote the development of an aggressive breast cancer cell phenotype.

Melatonin for the prevention and treatment of cancer

Abstract: // Ya Li 1 , Sha Li 2,* , Yue Zhou 1 , Xiao Meng 1 , Jiao-Jiao Zhang 1 , Dong-Ping Xu 1 and Hua-Bin Li 1,3,* 1 Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China 2 School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China 3 South China Sea Bioresource Exploitation and Utilization Collaborative Innovation Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China Correspondence to: Hua-Bin Li, email: // Sha Li, email: // Keywords : melatonin; anticancer; mechanisms of action; receptor; apoptosis Received : January 20, 2017 Accepted : March 09, 2017 Published : March 18, 2017 Abstract The epidemiological studies have indicated a possible oncostatic property of melatonin on different types of tumors. Besides, experimental studies have documented that melatonin could exert growth inhibition on some human tumor cells in vitro and in animal models. The underlying mechanisms include antioxidant activity, modulation of melatonin receptors MT1 and MT2, stimulation of apoptosis, regulation of pro-survival signaling and tumor metabolism, inhibition on angiogenesis, metastasis, and induction of epigenetic alteration. Melatonin could also be utilized as adjuvant of cancer therapies, through reinforcing the therapeutic effects and reducing the side effects of chemotherapies or radiation. Melatonin could be an excellent candidate for the prevention and treatment of several cancers, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, gastric cancer and colorectal cancer. This review summarized the anticancer efficacy of melatonin, based on the results of epidemiological,experimental and clinical studies, and special attention was paid to the mechanisms of action.

Triple-negative breast cancer: is there a treatment on the horizon?

Abstract: // Hui Yao 1 , Guangchun He 1 , Shichao Yan 1 , Chao Chen 1 , Liujiang Song 2 , Thomas J. Rosol 3 and Xiyun Deng 1 1 Department of Pathology, Hunan Normal University Medical College, Changsha, Hunan, China 2 Department of Pediatrics, Hunan Normal University Medical College, Changsha, Hunan, China 3 Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA Correspondence to: Xiyun Deng, email: // Keywords : breast cancer, triple-negative, therapeutics Received : May 12, 2016 Accepted : September 17, 2016 Published : September 27, 2016 Abstract Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which accounts for 15–20% of all breast cancers, does not express estrogen receptor (ER) or progesterone receptor (PR) and lacks human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression or amplification. These tumors have a more aggressive phenotype and a poorer prognosis due to the high propensity for metastatic progression and absence of specific targeted treatments. Patients with TNBC do not benefit from hormonal or trastuzumab-based targeted therapies because of the loss of target receptors. Although these patients respond to chemotherapeutic agents such as taxanes and anthracyclines better than other subtypes of breast cancer, prognosis remains poor. A group of targeted therapies under investigation showed favorable results in TNBC, especially in cancers with BRCA mutation. The lipid-lowering statins (3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors), including lovastatin and simvastatin, have been shown to preferentially target TNBC compared with non-TNBC. These statins hold great promise for the management of TNBC. Only with the understanding of the molecular basis for the preference of statins for TNBC and more investigations in clinical trials can they be reformulated into a clinically approved drug against TNBC.

Antimicrobial peptides with selective antitumor mechanisms: prospect for anticancer applications.

Abstract: // Berthony Deslouches 1, 2 and Y. Peter Di 1 1 Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA 2 Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA Correspondence to: Berthony Deslouches, email: tdesl19@pitt.edu Y. Peter Di, email: peterdi@pitt.edu Keywords: antimicrobial peptides, anticancer peptides, host defense peptides, antitumor peptides, cationic peptides Received: December 16, 2016 Accepted: March 20, 2017 Published: March 31, 2017 ABSTRACT In the last several decades, there have been significant advances in anticancer therapy. However, the development of resistance to cancer drugs and the lack of specificity related to actively dividing cells leading to toxic side effects have undermined these achievements. As a result, there is considerable interest in alternative drugs with novel antitumor mechanisms. In addition to the recent approach using immunotherapy, an effective but much cheaper therapeutic option of pharmaceutical drugs would still provide the best choice for cancer patients as the first line treatment. Ribosomally synthesized cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) or host defense peptides (HDP) display broad-spectrum activity against bacteria based on electrostatic interactions with negatively charged lipids on the bacterial surface. Because of increased proportions of phosphatidylserine (negatively charged) on the surface of cancer cells compared to normal cells, cationic amphipathic peptides could be an effective source of anticancer agents that are both selective and refractory to current resistance mechanisms. We reviewed herein the prospect for AMP application to cancer treatment, with a focus on modes of action of cationic AMPs.

Aurora kinases: novel therapy targets in cancers

Abstract: // Anqun Tang 1,* , Keyu Gao 1,* , Laili Chu 1,* , Rui Zhang 1 , Jing Yang 1 and Junnian Zheng 1,2 1 Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Jiangsu, China 2 Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China * These authors have contributed equally to this work Correspondence to: Junnian Zheng, email: // Jing Yang, email: // Keywords : Aurora kinases, mitosis, cancer therapy target, Aurora kinases inhibitors, combination therapy Received : November 01, 2016 Accepted : January 17, 2017 Published : January 29, 2017 Abstract Aurora kinases, a family of serine/threonine kinases, consisting of Aurora A (AURKA), Aurora B (AURKB) and Aurora C (AURKC), are essential kinases for cell division via regulating mitosis especially the process of chromosomal segregation. Besides regulating mitosis, Aurora kinases have been implicated in regulating meiosis. The deletion of Aurora kinases could lead to failure of cell division and impair the embryonic development. Overexpression or gene amplification of Aurora kinases has been clarified in a number of cancers. And a growing number of studies have demonstrated that inhibition of Aurora kinases could potentiate the effect of chemotherapies. For the past decades, a series of Aurora kinases inhibitors (AKIs) developed effectively repress the progression and growth of many cancers both in vivo and in vitro , suggesting that Aurora kinases could be a novel therapeutic target. In this review, we’ll first briefly present the structure, localization and physiological functions of Aurora kinases in mitosis, then describe the oncogenic role of Aurora kinases in tumorigenesis, we shall finally discuss the outcomes of AKIs combination with conventional therapy.

Inhibition of the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) pathway: the current landscape and barriers to clinical application.

Abstract: // Young Kwang Chae 1,2,3,* , Keerthi Ranganath 3,* , Peter S. Hammerman 4 , Christos Vaklavas 5 , Nisha Mohindra 1,2,3 , Aparna Kalyan 1,2,3 , Maria Matsangou 1,2,3 , Ricardo Costa 1 , Benedito Carneiro 1,2,3 , Victoria M. Villaflor 1,2,3 , Massimo Cristofanilli 1,2,3 and Francis J. Giles 1,2,3 1 Developmental Therapeutics Program of the Division of Hematology Oncology, Chicago, IL, USA 2 Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA 3 Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA 4 Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA 5 Division of Hematology Oncology, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA * These authors have contributted equally to this work Correspondence to: Young Kwang Chae, email: // Keywords : fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibition Received : September 24, 2016 Accepted : November 22, 2016 Published : December 22, 2016 Abstract The fibroblast growth factor/fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGF/FGFR) is a tyrosine kinase signaling pathway that has a fundamental role in many biologic processes including embryonic development, tissue regeneration, and angiogenesis. Increasing evidence indicates that this pathway plays a critical role in oncogenesis via gene amplification, activating mutations, or translocation in tumors of various histologies. With multiplex sequencing technology, the detection of FGFR aberrations has become more common and is tied to cancer cell proliferation, resistance to anticancer therapies, and neoangiogenesis. Inhibition of FGFR signaling appears promising in preclinical studies, suggesting a pathway of clinical interest in the development of targeted therapy. Phase I trials have demonstrated a manageable toxicity profile. Currently, there are multiple FGFR inhibitors under study with many non-selective (multi-kinase) inhibitors demonstrating limited clinical responses. As we progress from the first generation of non-selective drugs to the second generation of selective FGFR inhibitors, it is clear that FGFR aberrations do not behave uniformly across cancer types; thus, a deeper understanding of biomarker strategies is undoubtedly warranted. This review aims to consolidate data from recent clinical trials with a focus on selective FGFR inhibitors. As Phase II clinical trials emerge, concentration on patient selection as it pertains to predicting response to therapy, feasible methods for overcoming toxicity, and the likelihood of combination therapies should be utilized. We will also discuss qualities that may be desirable in future generations of FGFR inhibitors, with the hope that overcoming these current barriers will expedite the availability of this novel class of medications.

Prevalence of malnutrition in patients at first medical oncology visit: the PreMiO study

Abstract: // Maurizio Muscaritoli 1 , Simone Lucia 1 , Alessio Farcomeni 2 , Vito Lorusso 3 , Valeria Saracino 3 , Carlo Barone 4 , Francesca Plastino 4 , Stefania Gori 5 , Roberto Magarotto 5 , Giacomo Carteni 6 , Bruno Chiurazzi 6 , Ida Pavese 7 , Luca Marchetti 7 , Vittorina Zagonel 8 , Eleonora Bergo 8 , Giuseppe Tonini 9 , Marco Imperatori 9 , Carmelo Iacono 10 , Luigi Maiorana 10 , Carmine Pinto 11 , Daniela Rubino 11 , Luigi Cavanna 12 , Roberto Di Cicilia 12 , Teresa Gamucci 13 , Silvia Quadrini 13 , Salvatore Palazzo 14 , Stefano Minardi 14 , Marco Merlano 15 , Giuseppe Colucci 16 and Paolo Marchetti 17, 18 , on behalf of the PreMiO Study Group 19 1 Department of Clinical Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy 2 Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy 3 Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Research Centre Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy 4 Department of Medical Oncology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy 5 Medical Oncology Unit, Ospedale Sacro Cuore Don Calabria, Verona, Italy 6 Oncology Unit, Antonio Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Italy 7 Oncology Unit, San Pietro Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Rome, Italy 8 Department of Clinical and Experimental Oncology, Medical Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy 9 Department of Oncology, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy 10 Department of Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Civile - Maria Paterno Arezzo, Ragusa, Italy 11 Medical Oncology, Clinical Cancer Centre, IRCCS-Arcispedale S. Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy 12 Department of Oncology-Hematology, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, Piacenza, Italy 13 Medical Oncology Unit, S.S. Trinita Hospital, Sora, Italy 14 Division of Medical Oncology, Mariano Santo Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera, Cosenza, Italy 15 Medical Oncology, Oncology Department, S. Croce & Carle Teaching Hospital, Cuneo, Italy 16 Medical Oncology Department, National Cancer Research Centre Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy 17 Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology Sapienza, St. Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy 18 IDI-IRCCS, Rome, Italy 19 The PreMiO Study group also included investigators who contributed to patients’ enrollment Correspondence to: Maurizio Muscaritoli, email: maurizio.muscaritoli@uniroma1.it Keywords: malnutrition, cancer, cachexia, sarcopenia, oncology Received: April 27, 2017 Accepted: June 20, 2017 Published: August 10, 2017 ABSTRACT Background: In cancer patients, malnutrition is associated with treatment toxicity, complications, reduced physical functioning, and decreased survival. The Prevalence of Malnutrition in Oncology (PreMiO) study identified malnutrition or its risk among cancer patients making their first medical oncology visit. Innovatively, oncologists, not nutritionists, evaluated the nutritional status of the patients in this study. Methods: PreMiO was a prospective, observational study conducted at 22 medical oncology centers across Italy. For inclusion, adult patients (>18 years) had a solid tumor diagnosis, were treatment-naive, and had a life expectancy >3 months. Malnutrition was identified by the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), appetite status with a visual analog scale (VAS), and appetite loss with a modified version of Anorexia-Cachexia Subscale (AC/S-12) of the Functional Assessment of Anorexia-Cachexia Therapy (FAACT). Findings: Of patients enrolled ( N= 1,952), 51% had nutritional impairment; 9% were overtly malnourished, and 43% were at risk for malnutrition. Severity of malnutrition was positively correlated with the stage of cancer. Over 40% of patients were experiencing anorexia, as reported in the VAS and FAACT questionnaire. During the prior six months, 64% of patients lost weight (1–10 kg). Interpretation: Malnutrition, anorexia, and weight loss are common in cancer patients, even at their first visit to a medical oncology center.

PD-1 and its ligands are important immune checkpoints in cancer.

Abstract: // Yinan Dong 1 , Qian Sun 1 and Xinwei Zhang 1 1 Cell Immunology Lab, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of “Cancer Prevention and therapy”, Key Laboratory of Immunology and Cancer Biotherapy, Tianjin, China Correspondence to: Xinwei Zhang, email: // Keywords : PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, T cell anergy, immune checkpoint blockade Received : April 14, 2016 Accepted : November 21, 2016 Published : December 10, 2016 Abstract Checkpoint programmed death-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligands (PD-Ls) have been identified as negative immunoregulatory molecules that promote immune evasion of tumor cells. The interaction of PD-1 and PD-Ls inhibits the function of T cells and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) while increasing the function of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs). This condition causes the tumor cells to evade immune response. Thus, the blockade of PD-1/PD-L1 enhances anti-tumor immunity by reducing the number and/or the suppressive activity of Tregs and by restoring the activity of effector T cells. Furthermore, some monoclonal antibodies blockading PD-1/PD-Ls axis have achieved good effect and received Food and Drug Administration approval. The role of PD-1/PD-Ls in tumors has been well studied, but little is known on the mechanism by which PD-1 blocks T-cell activation. In this study, we provide a brief overview on the discovery and regulatory mechanism of PD-1 and PD-L1 dysregulation in tumors, as well as the function and signaling pathway of PD-1 and its ligands; their roles in tumor evasion and clinical treatment were also studied.

Breast cancer subtypes predict the preferential site of distant metastases: a SEER based study

Abstract: // Qi Wu 1, * , Juanjuan Li 1, * , Shan Zhu 1 , Juan Wu 2 , Chuang Chen 1 , Qian Liu 1 , Wen Wei 1 , Yimin Zhang 1 , Shengrong Sun 1 1 Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China 2 Department of Pathology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China * These authors contributed equally to this work Correspondence to: Shengrong Sun, email: sun137@sina.com Yimin Zhang, email: dryiminzhang@163.com Keywords: breast cancer subtypes, distant metastases, SEER Received: November 01, 2016 Accepted: February 20, 2017 Published: March 02, 2017 ABSTRACT Background and Aims: This study aimed to access possible relationships between breast cancer subtypes and sites of distant metastasis in breast cancer. Results: A total of 243,896 patients, including 226,451 cases in control groups were identified. Bone metastasis was found in 8848 cases, compared with 1,000 brain metastasis cases, 3434 liver metastasis cases and 4167 lung metastasis cases. Patients with all subtypes were most prone to bone metastases, the incidence of bone metastasis in HR+/HER2+ subtype was up to 5.1 %. Further, HR−/HER2+ subtype patients had a higher probability of brain (OR = 1.978) metastasis compared to HR+/HER2− subtype patients. In addition, liver metastasis was more frequently observed in the HER2 positive subtypes compared with HER2 negative subtypes. Patients with TN primarily presented lung metastasis, but it made no difference in the probability of lung metastases of all subtypes. Materials and Methods: Using the 2010–2013 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program(SEER) data, a retrospective, population-based cohort study to investigate tumor subtypes-specific differences in the sites of distant metastasis. Metastatic patterns information was provided for bone, brain, liver and lung. The breast cancer was classified into four subtypes: hormone receptor (HR) +/ human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) −, HR+/HER2+, HR−/HER2+ and triple negative (TN). Conclusions: The pathological subtypes of breast cancer are clearly different in metastatic behavior with regard to the sites of distant metastasis, emphasizing that this knowledge may help to determine the appropriate strategy for follow-up and guide personalized medicine.

Soluble PD-1 and PD-L1: predictive and prognostic significance in cancer

Abstract: The membrane-bound molecules programmed death 1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 (PD-1/PD-L1) belong to the immune checkpoint pathway. PD-1 pathway downregulates effector T cells in immune response, thereby causing immune suppression. Recent studies have revealed that membrane-bound PD-1 and PD-L1 also have soluble forms. These soluble forms increase the complexity and diversity of the composition and function of the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway. However, the exact roles of these molecules remain unknown. The objective of this systematic review was to elucidate the biological significance of soluble PD-1/PD-L1 in human cancers and evaluate whether they are potential diagnostic, therapeutic, or prognostic biomarkers. We expect to provide new clues for future research on soluble PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in human malignant tumors.

Correlation between apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and cellularity is different in several tumors: a meta-analysis.

Abstract: // Alexey Surov 1, * , Hans Jonas Meyer 1, * and Andreas Wienke 2, * 1 Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany 2 Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany * All authors contributed equally for this work Correspondence to: Alexey Surov, email: Alexey.Surov@medizin.uni-leipzig.de Keywords: DWI, MRI, ADC, cellularity, tumor Received: March 31, 2017 Accepted: April 27, 2017 Published: May 10, 2017 ABSTRACT The purpose of this meta-analysis was to provide clinical evidence regarding relationship between ADC and cellularity in different tumors based on large patient data. Medline library was screened for associations between ADC and cell count in different tumors up to September 2016. Only publications in English were extracted. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PRISMA) was used for the research. Overall, 39 publications with 1530 patients were included into the analysis. The following data were extracted from the literature: authors, year of publication, number of patients, tumor type, and correlation coefficients. The pooled correlation coefficient for all studies was ρ = -0.56 (95 % CI = [−0.62; −0.50]),. Correlation coefficients ranged from ρ =−0.25 (95 % CI = [−0.63; 0.12]) in lymphoma to ρ=−0.66 (95 % CI = [−0.85; −0.47]) in glioma. Other coefficients were as follows: ovarian cancer, ρ = −0.64 (95% CI = [−0.76; −0.52]); lung cancer, ρ = −0.63 (95 % CI = [−0.78; −0.48]); uterine cervical cancer, ρ = −0.57 (95 % CI = [−0.80; −0.34]); prostatic cancer, ρ = −0.56 (95 % CI = [−0.69; −0.42]); renal cell carcinoma, ρ = −0.53 (95 % CI = [−0.93; −0.13]); head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, ρ = −0.53 (95 % CI = [-0.74; −0.32]); breast cancer, ρ = −0.48 (95 % CI = [−0.74; −0.23]); and meningioma, ρ = -0.45 (95 % CI = [−0.73; −0.17]).

IL-6 secreted by cancer-associated fibroblasts promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis of gastric cancer via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Abstract: // Xiongyan Wu 1, * , Pan Tao 1, * , Quan Zhou 1, * , Jie Li 1 , Zhenjia Yu 1 , Xiaofeng Wang 1 , Jiaanfang Li 1 , Chen Li 1 , Min Yan 1 , Zhenggang Zhu 1 , Bingya Liu 1 , Liping Su 1 1 Department of Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gastric Neoplasms, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, People’s Republic of China * These authors contributed equally to this work Correspondence to: Liping Su, email: suliping@shsmu.edu.cn Keywords: cancer-associated fibroblasts, interleukin-6, JAK/STAT3, gastric cancer Received: July 22, 2016 Accepted: January 23, 2017 Published: February 06, 2017 ABSTRACT Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as the activated fibroblasts in tumor stroma, are important modifiers of tumor progression. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the tumor-promoting properties of CAFs in gastric cancer remain unclear. Here, we show that CAFs isolated from gastric cancer produce significant amounts of interleukin-6 (IL-6). CAFs enhances the migration and EMT of gastric cancer cells through the secretion of IL-6 that activates Janus kinase 2/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK2/STAT3) pathway in gastric cancer cells, while deprivation of IL-6 using a neutralizing antibody or inhibition of JAK/STAT3 pathway with specific inhibitor AG490 markedly attenuates these phenotypes in gastric cancer cells induced by CAFs. Moreover, silencing IL-6 expression in CAFs or inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 pathway in gastric cancer cells impairs tumor peritoneal metastasis induced by CAFs in vivo . Taken together, these results suggest that CAFs in the tumor microenvironment promote the progression of gastric cancer through IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling, and IL-6 targeted therapy could be a complementary approach against gastric cancer by exerting their action on stromal fibroblasts.

Impact of Mediterranean diet on metabolic syndrome, cancer and longevity

Abstract: Obesity symbolizes a major public health problem. Overweight and obesity are associated to the occurrence of the metabolic syndrome and to adipose tissue dysfunction. The adipose tissue is metabolically active and an endocrine organ, whose dysregulation causes a low-grade inflammatory state and ectopic fat depositions. The Mediterranean Diet represents a possible therapy for metabolic syndrome, preventing adiposopathy or "sick fat" formation.The Mediterranean Diet exerts protective effects in elderly subjects with and without baseline of chronic diseases. Recent studies have demonstrated a relationship between cancer and obesity. In the US, diet represents amount 30-35% of death causes related to cancer. Currently, the cancer is the second cause of death after cardiovascular diseases worldwide. Furthermore, populations living in the Mediterranean area have a decreased incidence of cancer compared with populations living in Northern Europe or the US, likely due to healthier dietary habits. The bioactive food components have a potential preventive action on cancer. The aims of this review are to evaluate the impact of Mediterranean Diet on onset, progression and regression of metabolic syndrome, cancer and on longevity.

Prognostic significance of tumor-associated macrophages in breast cancer: a meta-analysis of the literature.

Abstract: // Xixi Zhao 1,* , Jingkun Qu 2,* , Yuchen Sun 3 , Jizhao Wang 2 , Xu Liu 2 , Feidi Wang 1 , Hong Zhang 1 , Wen Wang 1 , Xingcong Ma 1 , Xiaoyan Gao 1 and Shuqun Zhang 1 1 Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, P.R. China 2 The Second Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, P.R. China 3 The Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R. China * These authors have contributed equally to this work Correspondence to: Shuqun Zhang, email: // Keywords : breast cancer, tumor associated macrophages, prognosis, meta-analysis Received : September 12, 2016 Accepted : February 06, 2017 Published : February 25, 2017 Abstract Purpose: Tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) are important prognostic factors and have been proved to be associated with the invasion and migration of various cancer. However, the relationship between TAMs and breast cancer outcomes remains unclear. Experimental Design: Sixteen studies with a total of 4,541 breast cancer patients were included in this meta-analysis. Correlation of TAMs with overall survival (OS), disease-free survival(DFS), relapse-free survival (RFS), breast cancer special survival (BCSS) and clinicopathological features were analyzed. Survival data and clinicopathological value were integrated by analyzing hazard ratio(HR) and odds ratio(OR) separately and using Fixed-effect or Random-effect model according to heterogeneity. All statistical tests were two-sided. Results: OS and DFS were correlated with high density of TAMs with HR= 1.504(1.200, 1.884)/ 2.228(1.716, 2.892) respectively. And subgroup analysis of location and biomarker in OS and DFS group showed prognosis was associated with TAMs distribution and biomarker selection. Besides, TAMs high infiltration was significantly related to age, size, histologic grade, ER/PR status, basal phenotype and vascular invasion. Conclusion: High density of TAMs was associated with poor survival rates of breast cancer. TAMs in stroma are associated with worse outcome than that in nest and using CD68 as a biomarker for TAMs to evaluate the risk is better than CD163 or CD206 alone. Moreover, high infiltration of TAMs was significantly associated with negative hormone receptor status and malignant phenotype. TAMs infiltration can serve as a novel prognostic factor in breast cancer patients.

iRNA-AI: identifying the adenosine to inosine editing sites in RNA sequences.

Abstract: Catalyzed by adenosine deaminase (ADAR), the adenosine to inosine (A-to-I) editing in RNA is not only involved in various important biological processes, but also closely associated with a series of major diseases. Therefore, knowledge about the A-to-I editing sites in RNA is crucially important for both basic research and drug development. Given an uncharacterized RNA sequence that contains many adenosine (A) residues, can we identify which one of them can be of A-to-I editing, and which one cannot? Unfortunately, so far no computational method whatsoever has been developed to address such an important problem based on the RNA sequence information alone. To fill this empty area, we have proposed a predictor called iRNA-AI by incorporating the chemical properties of nucleotides and their sliding occurrence density distribution along a RNA sequence into the general form of pseudo nucleotide composition (PseKNC). It has been shown by the rigorous jackknife test and independent dataset test that the performance of the proposed predictor is quite promising. For the convenience of most experimental scientists, a user-friendly web-server for iRNA-AI has been established at http://lin.uestc.edu.cn/server/iRNA-AI/, by which users can easily get their desired results without the need to go through the mathematical details.

The concept of immune surveillance against tumors. The first theories

Abstract: // Domenico Ribatti 1,2 1 Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy 2 National Cancer Institute “Giovanni Paolo II”, Bari, Italy Correspondence to: Domenico Ribatti, email: // Keywords : Antigen; immune surveillance; history of medicine; T cell; tumor Received : July 18, 2016 Accepted : October 10, 2016 Published : October 18, 2016 Abstract The immune system plays a major role in the surveillance against tumors. To avoid attack from the immune system, tumor cells develop different strategies to escape immune surveillance. Evidence of immune surveillance comes from both animal models and clinical observations. Mice with a wide variety of immunodeficiencies have a high rate of tumor incidence and are more susceptible to transplanted or chemical carcinogen-induced tumors. Immunosuppressed patients have a high incidence of tumors. However, many patients develop cancer even in the presence of an apparently normal immune system. This indicates that tumor cells are able to escape immune surveillance. The aim of this review article is to summarize the literature concerning the development of the theory of immune surveillance against tumors; to discuss the evidence for and against this theory, and to discuss the concept of immunoediting. Finally, the current approaches in anti-tumor immunotherapy will be analyzed.

Redirecting tumor-associated macrophages to become tumoricidal effectors as a novel strategy for cancer therapy

Abstract: // Xiang Zheng 1 , Kati Turkowski 1 , Javier Mora 2 , Bernhard Brune 2 , Werner Seeger 1, 3 , Andreas Weigert 2 and Rajkumar Savai 1, 3 1 Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Department of Lung Development and Remodeling, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Bad Nauheim, Germany 2 Institute of Biochemistry I, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany 3 Department of Internal Medicine, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the DZL, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany Correspondence to: Rajkumar Savai, email: rajkumar.savai@mpi-bn.mpg.de Andreas Weigert, email: weigert@biochem.uni-frankfurt.de Keywords: tumor microenvironment, macrophages, repolarization, cancer progression, metastasis Received: October 15, 2016 Accepted: March 22, 2017 Published: April 12, 2017 ABSTRACT Cancer research in recent decades has highlighted the potential influence of the tumor microenvironment on the progression and metastasis of most known cancer types. Within the established microenvironment, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are one of the most abundant and crucial non-neoplastic cell types. The polarization of macrophages into tumor-suppressive M1 or tumor-promoting M2 types is a fundamental event in the establishment of the tumor microenvironment. Although ample evidence indicates that TAMs are primarily M2 polarized, the mechanisms responsible for the regulation and maintenance of M1 and M2 polarization imbalance remain unclear. The manipulation of this critical axis through three main approaches may provide new strategies for cancer therapy — (I) specific interference with M2-like TAM survival or inhibiting their signaling cascades, (II) repression of macrophage recruitment to tumors, and (III) repolarization of tumor-promoting M2-like TAMs to a tumoricidal M1-like phenotype. This review summarizes current strategies for cancer intervention via manipulation of macrophage polarization, with particular focus on composition of the tumor microenvironment and its influence on cancer progression and metastasis. It is clear that additional fundamental and preclinical research is required to confirm the efficacy and practicality of this novel and promising strategy for treating cancer.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms and cancer susceptibility

Abstract: A large number of genes associated with various cancer types contain single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). SNPs are located in gene promoters, exons, introns as well as 5'- and 3'- untranslated regions (UTRs) and affect gene expression by different mechanisms. These mechanisms depend on the role of the genetic elements in which the individual SNPs are located. Moreover, alterations in epigenetic regulation due to gene polymorphisms add to the complexity underlying cancer susceptibility related to SNPs. In this systematic review, we discuss the various genetic and epigenetic mechanisms involved in determining cancer susceptibility related to various SNPs located in different genetic elements. We also discuss the diagnostic potential of these SNPs and the focus for future studies.