Xuezeng Sun

Dr. Xuezeng Sun


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

View All Publications
24 October 2024 in Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
GDGuofei Deng
Guofei Deng
PWPengliang Wang
Pengliang Wang
RSRishun Su
Rishun Su
XSXuezeng Sun
Xuezeng Sun
ZWZizhen Wu
Zizhen Wu
SYSongcheng Yin
Songcheng Yin
Background: Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have been demonstrated to be associated with tumor progression. However, the different subpopulations of TAMs and their roles in gastric cancer (GC) remain poorly understood. This study aims to assess the effects of Spi-1 proto-oncogene (SPI1)+CD68+ TAMs in GC. Methods: The distribution of SPI1+CD68+ TAMs in GC tissue was estimated by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Single-cell transcriptome analysis and multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry were applied to explore the role of SPI1+CD68+ TAMs in an immune contexture. SPI1 overexpression or knockdown cells were constructed to evaluate its role in macrophage polarization and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to verify the mechanism of SPI1 transcriptional function. The effect of combined antiangiogenic and immunotherapy was further validated using mouse peritoneal metastasis models. Results: Single-cell transcriptome analysis and immunohistochemistry demonstrated that SPI1 was expressed in macrophages, with a higher enrichment in metastatic lesions than in primary tumors. Higher SPI1+CD68+ TAMs infiltration was associated with poor overall survival. Mechanically, SPI1 promoted the M2-type macrophage polarization. SPI1 could bind to the promoter of vascular endothelial growth factor A and facilitate angiogenesis. Moreover, the level of SPI1+CD68+ TAMs infiltration was closely related to the efficacy of immunotherapy, especially when combined with antiangiogenic therapy. Conclusions: The present study showed that SPI1+CD68+ TAMs are a promising biomarker for predicting prognosis, antiangiogenic drug sensitivity, and combination target of immunotherapy in patients with GC.