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Published on: November 5, 2021
Tracking of mouse breast cancer stem-like cells with Salmonella
Wen-Wei Chang1, Yu-Diao Kuan, Man-Chin Chen
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medical Science and Technology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Systemic administration of Salmonella to tumor-bearing mice leads to the preferential accumulation within tumor sites and retardation of tumor growth. The cancer stem-like cell (CSC) hypothesis suggests that CSCs are the root of cancer and induce metastasis and recurrence. The objective of this study was to examine if Salmonella could inhibit the growth of CSCs derived from mouse breast cancer. Systemically injected Salmonella preferentially accumulated within tumors for at least three weeks and the bacteria accumulated preferentially not only in subcutaneous but also in orthotopic tumors over livers and spleens at ratios ranging from 1000:1 to 10,000:1. Salmonella were capable of delaying tumor growth and enhancing survival in both subcutaneous and orthotopic tumor models. More strikingly, Salmonella acted to retard tumor growth and extensively prolong the survival time of the mice bearing CSC-induced tumors. Our results also found that Salmonella predominantly, although not exclusively, resided in the CSC regions of the tumor. These data suggest that Salmonella can inhibit the growth of breast cancer by targeting the CSC niche. In conclusion, Salmonella can be used for the management of breast cancer.
Insights
Salmonella bacteria preferentially accumulate in breast tumors, effectively inhibiting cancer stem-like cell growth and prolonging survival in mice. This suggests Salmonella
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Microbiology
- Cancer Stem Cell Research
Background:
- The cancer stem-like cell (CSC) hypothesis posits CSCs drive tumor initiation, metastasis, and recurrence.
- Targeting CSCs is crucial for effective cancer management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of systemic Salmonella administration in inhibiting the growth of mouse breast cancer stem-like cells (CSCs).
Main Methods:
- Systemic administration of Salmonella to tumor-bearing mice with CSC-induced tumors.
- Monitoring Salmonella accumulation in tumors, livers, and spleens.
- Evaluating tumor growth retardation and survival rates in mouse models.
Main Results:
- Salmonella preferentially accumulated in both subcutaneous and orthotopic tumors, with minimal presence in liver and spleen.
- Salmonella significantly delayed tumor growth and enhanced survival in mice.
- Bacteria were predominantly found in CSC-rich regions within the tumors.
Conclusions:
- Salmonella exhibits anti-tumor activity by targeting the CSC niche in breast cancer.
- Salmonella demonstrates potential as a therapeutic agent for breast cancer management.
