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Stimulator of interferon response cGAMP interactor overcomes ERBB2-mediated apatinib resistance in head and neck

Guo Ye1,2, Junbin Zhang1,2, Chengyao Zhang1,2

  • 1Department of Head and Neck Cancer Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, China.

Aging
|August 30, 2021
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Stimulator of interferon response cGAMP interactor (STING) can overcome apatinib resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) by reducing Erb-B2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (ERBB2) expression. Combining STING agonists or lapatinib with apatinib offers a synergistic approach to treating HNSCC.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Apatinib resistance presents a significant challenge in treating advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).
  • Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying apatinib resistance is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the roles of Erb-B2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (ERBB2) and stimulator of interferon response cGAMP interactor (STING) in the development of apatinib resistance in HNSCC.
  • To explore potential therapeutic strategies to overcome apatinib resistance by targeting ERBB2 and STING pathways.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas database for HNSCC patient data.
  • Construction of an apatinib-resistant (AR) HNSCC cell line and subsequent RNA sequencing.
  • Quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blotting to assess protein expression and phosphorylation.
  • In vitro assays (colony formation, cell viability) and in vivo mouse models to evaluate treatment efficacy and vascularization.

Main Results:

  • Elevated vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) expression was observed in HNSCC tumors.
  • Apatinib-resistant HNSCC cells exhibited high ERBB2 expression and low STING expression.
  • Targeting ERBB2 with lapatinib reduced apatinib resistance, while STING overexpression decreased ERBB2 levels.

Conclusions:

  • STING sensitizes apatinib-resistant HNSCC cells to apatinib by downregulating ERBB2 expression.
  • Combination therapy involving lapatinib or a STING agonist with apatinib demonstrated synergistic effects in overcoming acquired apatinib resistance.
Keywords:
ERBB2STINGapatinib resistancehead and neck squamous cell carcinomaproliferation

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