Characterization of triple‐negative breast cancer preclinical models provides functional evidence of metastatic progression

Abstract

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive, metastatic and recurrent breast cancer (BC) subtype, currently suffers from a lack of adequately described spontaneously metastatic preclinical models that faithfully reproduce the clinical scenario. We describe two preclinical spontaneously metastatic TNBC orthotopic murine models for the development of advanced therapeutics: an immunodeficient human MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model and an immunocompetent mouse 4T1 model. Furthermore, we provide a broad range of multifactorial analysis for both models that could provide relevant information for the development of new therapies and diagnostic tools. Our comparisons uncovered differential growth rates, stromal arrangements and metabolic profiles in primary tumors, and the presence of cancer‐associated adipocyte infiltration in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model. Histopathological studies highlighted the more rapid metastatic spread to the lungs in the 4T1 model following a lymphatic route, while we observed both homogeneous (MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc) and heterogeneous (4T1) metastatic spread to axillary lymph nodes. We encountered unique metabolomic signatures in each model, including crucial amino acids and cell membrane components. Hematological analysis demonstrated severe leukemoid and lymphoid reactions in the 4T1 model with the partial reestablishment of immune responses in the immunocompromised MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model. Additionally, we discovered β‐immunoglobulinemia and increased basal levels of G‐CSF correlating with a metastatic switch, with G‐CSF also promoting extramedullary hematopoiesis (both models) and causing hepatosplenomegaly (4T1 model). Overall, we believe that the characterization of these preclinical models will foster the development of advanced therapeutic strategies for TNBC treatment, especially for the treatment of patients presenting both, primary tumors and metastatic spread.

Short abstract

What's new?

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive, metastatic, and recurrent breast cancer subtype, currently lacks adequately described spontaneously metastatic preclinical models that faithfully reproduce the clinical scenario. Here, the authors provide an in‐depth comparative analysis of two preclinical spontaneously metastatic TNBC orthotopic models, MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc and 4T1. The results reveal a metastatic switch in both models with immune system activation and serum‐protein profile reconfiguration, which may support resistance to treatment and recurrence in TNBC. The authors also identify critical functional biomarkers and metabolomic signatures for metastatic progression that may facilitate the development of anticancer therapeutics.

Abbreviations

6‐TG

6‐thioguanine

18F‐FDG

18‐fluorodeoxyglucose

ALN

axillary lymph node(s)

BC

breast cancer

BCAA

branched amino acids

BLI

bioluminescence imaging

CAA

cancer‐associated adipocytes

DFS

disease‐free survival

EH

extramedullary hematopoiesis

ER

estrogen receptor

EPR

enhanced permeability and retention

FBS

fetal bovine serum

G‐CSF

granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor

GPC

glycerophosphorylcholine

H&E

hematoxylin and eosin

HER2

human epidermal growth factor receptor 2

ILN

inguinal lymph node

LDL

low density lipoprotein

MDR

multidrug resistance

MPC

myeloid precursor cell

NOD/SCID

nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency

NLR

neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio

NTA

nanoparticle‐tracking analysis

OPLS‐DA

orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis

PR

progesterone receptor

PET/CT

positron emission tomography/computed tomography

TAG

triacylglycerol

TNBC

triple negative breast cancer

Introduction

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC, lacking progesterone receptor [PR], estrogen receptors [ER] and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 [HER2] expression) represents ∼15–20% of newly diagnosed cases1 and a complex molecular landscape, low detection rate and aggressive/highly proliferative nature result in poor prognosis and heterogeneous behavior in patients. Rapid growth rates and prominent lymphoplasmacytic inflammatory infiltrates due to host immune responses promote metastasis to the lungs, liver and brain metastasis and the frequent lymphatic system involvement that impedes focal treatment, favors recurrence, aggravates the clinical situation and lowers survival rates.1 Rapid tumor evolution also leads to the development of an inner hypoxic and a subsequent necrotic core,2 promoting multiple drug resistance (MDR) and poorer prognosis.3

TNBC currently lacks targeted therapeutics1 and current treatment strategies provide heterogeneous responses/outcomes.2 Additionally, no standardized treatment for metastatic TNBC exists, therefore representing a critical unmet clinical need.3 Multistage animal models represent crucial translational research platforms for the testing and validation of experimental therapies; however, the lack of accurately characterized models that faithfully mimic the pathological features of human TNBC, including spontaneous metastasis or multiple side alterations, frequently hampers research.4 Currently used metastatic mouse models mimic advanced stage disease, but the requirement for infusions of high concentrations of aggressive breast cancer (BC) cells,4 the need to resect the primary tumor to allow metastasis, or slow metastatic development limits the application of these models.

We now present the differential features of two preclinically relevant spontaneously metastatic TNBC mouse models. First, the well‐established 4T1 model5 developed in an immunocompetent (BALB/c) background (representing the murine disease) and second, the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model6 established in immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) background (representing the human disease, and more specifically, the mesenchymal stem‐like subtype).

Within this study, we carried out a broad and detailed characterization of disease progression in each model and assessed for functional biomarkers, key metabolites and differential cytokines considered crucial for prognosis. Furthermore, we analyzed the suitability for the application of preclinical models in the development/translation of advanced therapeutics for TNBC treatment, as features such as the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect have also been explored.6

Materials and Methods

Cell culture conditions

The 4T1 cell line and MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc cell line were maintained in RPMI1640 media +10% heat‐inactivated fetal bovine serum (FBS) and DMEM/F12 media (Gibco, Waltham, MA) + 10% FBS + 500 μg/ml geneticin (Gibco), respectively, under standard tissue culture conditions. In both cases, media was replaced every 2–3 days and cells passaged once cultures reached 80% confluence. Transfection stability and lack of HER‐2, PR and ER expression in MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc cells were confirmed before inoculation (Supporting Information Fig. S1).

Mouse strains

Eight‐week‐old female inbred immunocompetent BALB/c (BALB/cOlaHsd) mice and the immunodeficient nonobese diabetic NOD/SCID (NOD.CB17‐Prkdc ^scid /NCrHsd) mice used herein were purchased from Envigo Laboratories Inc. (Spain, EU). Four to eight animals have been used for each experimental time point.

Study of the enhanced permeability and retention effect as a functional biomarker

To study vascular permeability, we followed previously described protocols.7 See Supporting Information for detailed information.

Establishment of spontaneously metastatic primary tumor models

4T1 orthotopic tumors were induced via subdermal inoculation of 5 × 10⁵ 4T1 early passage cells suspended in 100 μl of Matrigel (20%) in the second left mammary fat pad of BALB/c females under inhalatory anesthesia (3% sevoflurane in 100% oxygen). After the same experimental conditions, MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors were established using 3 × 10⁶ early passage cells in NOD/SCID mice. Tumors were morphometrically evaluated daily with an electronic caliper and tumor volumes obtained considering a spheroidal tumor shape. Metastases in organs of interest in the 4T1 model were isolated and evaluated following a previously described protocol.5

Noninvasive imaging techniques to monitor metastasis

Bioluminescence imaging by IVIS®

MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc cells were tracked using IVIS® technology. For BLI analysis, mice were anesthetized and received a subdermal injection of 150 mg/kg D‐luciferin (Gold BioTechnology, St. Louis, MO). Images were acquired using automatic camera settings and BLI data quantified with Living Image software (PerkinElmer, Kanagawa, Japan) in terms of photons per second. For detailed protocols, see Supporting Information.

Positron emission tomography–computed tomography analysis

For positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET–CT) analysis, animals were kept without food for 14 hr before radiotracer administration for PET and housed at a constant temperature of 21°C. The average mouse weight was 19.2 ± 0.7 g, while the average blood glucose level was 47.2 ± 10.1 mg dl⁻¹. Anesthesia was induced by inhalation of isoflurane (4% in 100% oxygen) and maintained at (1.5% in 100% oxygen). See Supporting Information for further details.

Blood collection and analysis

At defined time points, mice were sacrificed under a CO₂ atmosphere. Blood was immediately extracted by cardiac puncture. Serum was isolated and analyzed using an automated hematologic analyzer (Sysmex XT‐2000i). Serum‐ protein content was measured using an automated capillary electrophoresis system (Capillarys 2, Sebia, France). See Supporting Information for additional details.

Histopathological analysis and imaging

Histopathological analysis used conventional tissue preparation and paraffin inclusion (see Supporting Information). Tissue slides of interest were scanned with a Panoramic 250 Flash III slide scanner and processed with CaseViewer software (3DHISTECH Ltd, Budapest, Hungary). We provide a detailed list of the antibodies used in the Supporting Information section (Supporting Information Fig. S11).

Metabolomics profiling by NMR

Metabolomic sampling and processing were carried out according to previously described protocol.8 See Supporting Information for further details.

Exosome isolation, measurement and quantification from mouse blood serum

Serum exosome isolation was performed by serial differential centrifugations of fresh serum isolated from blood through centrifugation (see Supporting Information for details of the process). For exosome measurement and quantification, purified exosomes were diluted with PBS buffer (100–5,000 times) to reach a particle concentration in the operational range for nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA; 2 × 10⁸–2 × 10⁹ particles/ml). Exosomes were then quantified and measured using the Nanosight NS300 (Malvern Instruments, Malvern, UK).

Results

Comparison of TNBC model primary tumor development

Primary morphological analysis demonstrated that 4T1 tumors grew exponentially and homogeneously, reaching a cylindrical form after day (D)24 (Supporting Information Fig. S2). Subsequent analysis demonstrated slower initial growth kinetics for MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors compared to 4T1 up to ∼D30, finally acquiring an amorphous cylindrical shape at D42 (Supporting Information Fig. S2). Primary tumors in both models exhibited the typical stromal progression of most solid tumors, including inner necrotic region development,9 although with marked differences in growth kinetics and stromal arrangement (Supporting Information Fig. S3a and S3b ).

Analysis of tumors at the experimental endpoints demonstrated that the internal necrotic tissue presented cellular debris with diffuse margins, pyknotic nuclei and karyorrhexis in both models (See H&E sections in Fig. 1 a and 1b). While H&E tumor sections in 4T1 tumors identified a spheroidal concentric necrotic core surrounded by homogeneous concentric transition rings followed by a concentric proliferative region, MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors presented a more gelatinous necrotic core with heterogeneous spread of necrosis throughout the tumor stroma (Fig. 1 a and 1b). Overall, the stroma surrounding MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors presented lower cellular density and tumors evolved as soft and flexible solid masses (Supporting Information Fig. S3a and S3b ). Both animal models developed fungating lesions (round, nonbleeding skin ulcerations with firm inflamed borders above the mammary gland) that appeared during the first week of 4T1 and the second week of MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc‐tumor development, in line with human wound development subtypes10 (Supporting Information Fig. S2).

Figure 1.

Primary tumor development and immunohistological analysis of features. (a and b) Axial tumor H–E staining, demonstrating stromal arrangement and immunohistochemical study (CK‐AE1‐AE3, Factor VIII and Ki‐67) of tumor regions. Original magnification displayed in each image. (c) Morphometric tumor analysis demonstrating differential grow kinetics of primary tumors in both models. (d) EPR effect quantification of primary tumors. EPR_MAX was around 0.1 cm³ for both tumor models, corresponding to D8 and D14 for 4T1 and MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc, respectively. (e) Tumor density determined by simple arithmetic calculation demonstrating a lighter stroma as result of lower cellular density and higher lipid content in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model. (f) Multivariate modeling resulting from the analysis of primary tumors (f and h) OPLS‐DA score plot representing the comparison between MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc vs. 4T1 primary tumors (aqueous phase; R ² = 0.976/Q ² = 0.925) and organic phase (R ² = 0.982/Q ² = 0.936), respectively. (g and i) Metabolic changes for MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc vs. 4T1 primary tumor (aqueous phase) and MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc vs. 4T1 primary tumors (organic phase) comparisons. Statistical significance determined via ANOVA t‐test, (***p < 0.001, **p < 0.01, *p < 0.05). (j) Representative images of CAAs with H&E staining and immunostaining with IL‐1β and IL‐6. CAAs from MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors exhibited extensive phenotypic changes. Subpopulations of adipocytes that infiltrated within tumor stroma expressed IL‐1β and also IL‐6 (but to a lesser extent; CAAs indicated with red arrow heads). Note the diminished averaged sizes, a known characteristic feature of CAA. [Color figure can be viewed at wileyonlinelibrary.com]

Cytokeratin (CK)‐AE1/AE3 immunostaining confirmed the epithelial nature of tumor cells, with expression varying between both region and model. Factor VIII immunostaining demonstrated similar tumor neovasculature and undamaged endogenous blood vessels in both models, indicating a slightly vascularized tumor stroma (Fig. 1 a and 1b). We subsequently evaluated region‐dependent proliferative rates by Ki‐67 immunostaining and confirmed increased cell growth rates in outer regions of both tumors. We summarize data on immunohistochemical tumor markers in Supporting Information Fig. S3a .

We also morphometrically evaluated volume during tumor development in both models, discovering marked differences in growth kinetic profiles (Fig. 1 c). We observed a ∼twofold greater tumor growth rate for the 4T1 model (reaching ∼1.0 cm³ at D24) when compared to the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model (reaching ∼1.0 cm³ at D42), despite notable differences in the number of inoculated cells (5 × 10⁵ vs. 3 × 10⁶, respectively).

Subsequent quantification of maximum tumor permeability (related to the EPR effect7) established threefold greater permeability for the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model when compared to the 4T1 model (33% injected dose (ID)/gram of tumor (g) at ∼D14 vs. 13% ID/g at D10, respectively, when analyzing tumors at ∼0.1 cm³; Fig. 1 d).

Tumor density analyses reflected differential stromal arrangements, as previously noted (Fig. 1 e). 4T1 tumors initially displayed high density at early development time points (∼3 g/cm³), which then decreased progressively over 2 weeks to ∼1.5 g/cm³. In contrast, MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors displayed a more homogeneous density during tumor development, rising from 1.0 to 1.4 g/cm³ over the experimental time frame.

Additional metabolomics analysis supported differences in tumor growth kinetics observed between models; 4T1 tumors displayed increased levels of guanosine and uracil (metabolites related to cell growth and proliferation; Fig. 1 f and 1g) and cholesterol and phospholipids (critical cell membrane components; Fig. 1 h 1i), when compared to the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors.

Importantly, the tumor histopathological study at model endpoints also demonstrated a relationship between MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors, but not 4T1 tumors, and lipid burden (Fig. 1 a and 1b). We observed disperse accumulation of adipocyte lobes from early stages of MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumor development, with adipocytes distributed throughout the proliferative tumor region (Supporting Information Fig. S3b and S3c ). According to their reduced size and distribution pattern within the tumor stroma and further interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐1β immunostaining11, 12 (Fig. 1 j), we consider these adipocytes as cancer‐associated adipocytes (CAA). Interestingly, metabolomic comparisons revealed significantly increased triacylglycerol (TAG) levels for MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors, a lipid whose synthesis/hydrolysis is controlled by adipocytes, agreeing with histopathological findings (Fig. 1 h and 1i).

Comparison of TNBC model spontaneous metastatic landscape

4T1 tumors metastasize to liver, lungs, bones and brain at advanced stages, and we used intrinsic resistance to 6‐thioguanine (6‐TG) to quantify metastatic cells.13 MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors produce multiple organ metastasis after intravenous cancer cell inoculation or after tumor resection14; however, to the best of our knowledge, no study has reported spontaneous metastatic spread from unresected MDA‐MB‐231 tumors in NOD/SCID mice.15. In both models, we observed a very low incidence of brain, bone and liver metastases, but high levels of lung and axillary lymph node (ALN) metastasis (Fig. 2), a finding that correlates with the TNBC clinical scenario. Therefore, our studies focused on these two major metastatic sites.

Figure 2.

Spontaneous lung and ALN metastatic development and immunohistological analysis. (a) Representative images of 4T1 model lungs over time after necropsy and staining with H&E and immunostaining with CK‐AE1/AE3 and Ki‐67. 4T1 model lungs presented with prominent subpleural metastasis from D8 after tumor cell inoculation. Further analysis confirmed predominant pleural invasion, although intraparenchymal regions also appeared metastasized. Metastatic regions within the lungs as evidenced by CK‐AE1/AE3 immunostaining and highly proliferative nature evidenced by Ki‐67 immunostaining. (b) Representative images of MDA‐MB‐231 model lungs over time after necropsy and staining with H&E and immunostaining with CK‐AE1/AE3 and Ki‐67. The MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model developed metastasis later (D28) and the metastatic nodules appears disseminated throughout the lung parenchyma with predominant bronchioloalveolar pattern. Multivariate modeling resulting from the analysis of lung metastases. (c and d) OPLS‐DA score plot representing comparisons between healthy lung tissue vs. metastatic lung (4T1; aqueous phase; R ² = 0.913/Q ² = 0.890) and healthy lung tissue vs. metastatic lung (MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc; aqueous phase; R ² = 0.921/Q ² = 0.806), respectively. (e and f) Metabolic changes for healthy lung tissue vs. metastatic lung (4T1) (aqueous phase) and healthy lung tissue vs. metastatic lung (MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc; aqueous phase) comparisons, respectively. Statistical significance determined via ANOVA t‐test (***p < 0.001, **p < 0.01, *p < 0.05). (g) Evolution of ALN metastasis with time by H&E staining and CK‐AE1/AE3 and Ki‐67 immunostaining. The 4T1 model displayed heterogeneous metastatic invasion in ALN. The vast majority of animals presented metastasis in the left ALN at the experimental endpoint. (h) The MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model exhibited homogeneous ALN metastasis distribution. Left and right ALN are shown. [Color figure can be viewed at wileyonlinelibrary.com]

Lungs from the 4T1 model revealed evident subpleural metastases from D8, although we discovered the first evidence of discrete micrometastasis from D3 (Supporting Information Fig. S4). Between D8 and D16, lungs presented with perivascular metastatic nodules after a predominantly subpleural pattern.16 H&E staining identified prominent metastatic progression leading to disperse necrotic regions from D14 (Fig. 2 a). Additionally, macroscopic examination identified increased tissue hyperemia concomitant with metastasis progression; however, we did not observe this trend in MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc lungs (Fig. 2 b).

Metastatic burden in MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc appeared later than in the 4T1 and exhibited higher variability. Macroscopic lung evaluation uncovered first signs of lung metastases at ∼D28 as homogeneously disperse nodes, with intraalveolar and intrabronchiolar metastatic infiltrations present throughout the lung parenchyma (Fig. 2 a and 2b). Subsequently, lungs became slightly hyperemic and displayed signs of damage (Fig. 2 b). We confirmed metastasis and enhanced proliferation in both models using CK‐AE1/AE3 and Ki‐67 immunostaining, respectively (Fig. 2 a and 2b and Supporting Information Fig. S3a and S3c ). Overall, we observed higher lung metastasis and lesser implication of the subpleural region in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc compared to the 4T1 model.

Comparisons of healthy and metastatic lungs at the metabolomics levels established significant alterations in both models. Analysis of corresponding orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA) models revealed similar metabolic changes for the 4T1 and MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc models (e.g., taurine, glutamate and UDP‐N‐acetylglucosamine), while other metabolites experienced variations of opposite sign (e.g., lysine and tyrosine). Furthermore, comparisons between metastatic and healthy lungs also uncovered several unique metabolic changes (e.g., 4T1: phenylalanine, arginine and aspartate; MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc: glutathione and glycerophosphocholine; Fig. 2 c and 2 f).

At the macroscopic level, inguinal lymph node (ILN) metastases appeared in most 4T1 animals, and those with ILN metastases suffered from rapid ALN spread. Direct ALN metastasis without ILN involvement rarely occurred (Fig. 2 c). However, we seldom found metastases on the right side of the body (side of inoculation) and so we focused on metastatic development from tumor to left ALN following the afferent lymphatic vessel. 4T1 ALNs appeared macroscopically normal until D17, after which we observed metastasis (Fig. 2 g). Histopathological studies revealed nodes with varying degrees of physiological activation and swelling in the absence of metastasis until D10, and the majority of mice displayed similar characteristics by the endpoint (Fig. 2 g, inset). However, some 4T1 tumor‐bearing mice exhibited paracortical metastatic foci within the node hilus from D13. Mice with similar characteristics displayed widespread metastatic invasion of the ALN at D20 of tumor development. By D24, mice exhibited almost complete ALN invasion with normal morphology loss.

MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model macroscopic studies discovered lower variability in ALN invasion when compared to the 4T1 (Fig. 2 h). We observed no signs of metastatic spread in the first 3 weeks of MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumor development; however, all ALNs presented with signs of medullary sinusoidal metastasis at D21–28 (Fig. 2 h , inset). As expected, ALN swelling directly correlated to metastasis due to the lack of lymph node immunoreactivity and immune‐related swelling. We also discovered more prominent metastasis to the left ALN in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model at advanced tumor development stage (Fig. 2 h). Supporting Information Figures S3 and S4 summarize the findings related to primary tumor and spontaneous metastasis landscape and Supporting Information Figure S5 depicts time‐frame metastatic spread in MDA‐MB‐231 ALNs.

Noninvasive imaging of primary tumor and metastasis development in TNBC models

¹⁸F‐fluorodeoxyglucose uptake by PET (¹⁸F‐FDG‐PET) and CT permitted in vivo analysis of 4T1 tumor progression.17 Figure 3 a depicts a three‐dimensional view of tumor development displaying uniform radiotracer uptake by the spheroidal tumor mass until D3. We observed the development of an inner tumor core from D10, growing concentrically within the tumor mass, confirming previous findings (Supporting Information Fig. S3) and coinciding with maximal EPR effect (Fig. 1 d). Analysis displayed in Figure 3 a confirmed tumor core necrosis via the lack of radiotracer uptake. At endpoint, the necrotic region constituted ∼80% of total tumor volume, and PET analysis confirmed metastasis in the left ALN only (Fig. 3 b, Supporting Information Fig. S6).

Figure 3.

Noninvasive imaging techniques for in vivo visualization of primary tumor and metastatic landscape. (a) PET/CT combination permitted in vivo monitoring of 4T1 primary tumor progression. Image reconstruction of overlapped CT and PET image acquisitions. Regions with different radiotracer uptake levels have been colored to facilitate interpretation—green: bladder identification (max ¹⁸FDG caption); blue: tumor region identified by CT with high ¹⁸FDG uptake; red: tumor region identified by CT with low ¹⁸FDG uptake rate. Note the increasing hypodense region developing in the tumor core corresponding to the necrotic core. (b) ILN invasion observed close to the experimental endpoint, as seen in the axial projection of a representative 4T1 mouse. However, lung metastasis was not observed under our experimental conditions. (c) Tumor growth and metastatic landscape demonstrated by BLI in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumor model. ALN metastasis noted from D28, and tumor necrotic core noted from D35. (d) Three‐dimensional projections of an MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc representative mouse at the experimental endpoint. CT allowed for the delimitation of the tumor region (green region). Further PET analysis permitted the visualization of the peritumoral region, displaying a dark hollow indicative of tumor necrosis (inset, red arrow). Moreover, ILN metastasis was detectable with higher prominence on the left side (yellow arrows). (e) Thoracic region in detail. Characteristic intraparenchymatous lung metastasis detected by CT (green arrows). In addition, the swollen left ALN detected by CT (red region), but only an active metastatic region was detected by PET (yellow region) within the ALN mass. [Color figure can be viewed at wileyonlinelibrary.com]

Inherent luciferase activity in MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc cells permitted the in vivo tracking of tumor progression and quantification of distal metastasis by bioluminescence imaging (BLI) using the IVIS® system (Fig. 3 c). Tumors grew uniformly until D28, after which they became amorphous, with a loss of bioluminescence, again evidencing the necrotic core. Figure 3 c also confirmed the uniform appearance of left ALN metastasis at D28 as demonstrated by histopathology (Fig. 2 d). BLI analysis at D35 revealed increased left ALN metastasis with extravasation to the right ALN, the advancement of tumor core necrosis and metastatic spread to surrounding tissues (Fig. 3 c). At endpoint, all mice displayed increased metastatic growth to the left ALN, invasion of the right ALN and metastatic growth development in abdominal and thoracic regions (Supporting Information Fig. S6).

Dynamic PET/CT analyses demonstrated a hypodense region within MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors at endpoint (Fig. 3 d, red arrow); however, we observed a thinner ¹⁸F‐FDG‐labeled ring in the peritumoral region indicative of lower glucose metabolism at the tumor site. Additionally, we observed evidence of radiotracer uptake in abdominal lymph nodes around the tumor site (Fig. 3 d, inset). Figure 3 e shows significantly swollen left ALNs by CT. By PET, we detected the expected metastatic growth with the highest uptake located close to the afferent region of the left ALN and metastatic spread to the right ALN in the absence of swelling (as shown by CT; Fig. 3 e, yellow arrows). By CT, we also observed lung metastasis after the so‐called miliary pattern,18 which describes innumerable small metastases of variable‐size within the parenchyma (Supporting Information Fig. S4c ; consistent with Fig. 3 e).

Comparison of TNBC model hematological parameters

The hematological study depicted the development of systemic pathologies during tumor growth, including a marked tumor‐derived inflammatory response with anemia, thrombocytosis, reticulocytosis, leukocytosis and subsequent lymphocytosis (Fig. 4 and Supporting Information Fig. S7). This profile evolved during tumor development, although we observed model‐specific alterations related to immune system status with significantly higher levels of leukocytes/lymphocytes at later stages in the 4T1 model (Fig. 4). Both models exhibited reduced erythrocyte levels (∼8–10%) during tumor development, correlating to imbalanced medullary/extramedullary hematopoiesis (Fig. 4 a and 4b). We found more pronounced anemia in the 4T1 model with hemoglobin levels diminishing gradually (Supporting Information Fig. S7). Although more pronounced in the 4T1 model, we also discovered a robust increase in reticulocytes in both models; however, in contrast, we found significantly higher thrombocyte levels in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model (∼800 g l⁻¹ vs. ∼400 g l⁻¹) at endpoints (Fig. 4 a and 4b ).

Figure 4.

Hematological changes during tumor progression. Complete hemogram of 4T1 model (a) and MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc (b). Proteinograms of peripheral blood in both models during tumor progression displayed in (c) and (d). Beta hyperglobulinemia found in both models at the same time that lung metastasis evolved (D3 for the 4T1 model and D35 for the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model). Data represent mean ± SEM. Statistical significance was determined via ANOVA t‐test (***p < 0.001, **p < 0.01, *p < 0.05) The MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model displayed acute bands in the alpha immunoglobulin and gamma immunoglobulin, a profile compatible with ongoing inflammatory processes (increased alpha‐2 globulin), while the unspecific hypoalbuminemia is consistent with any previously mentioned pathologies in a chronic scenario. (e) Comparison of circulating exosome levels, quantified by NTA between both tumor models over time. (f) Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR). The MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc mouse NLR is included for comparative purposes, although the immunocompromised character of the NOD/SCID mice does not permit a proper comparison. (g) C3 complement system activation in the 4T1 tumor model. [Color figure can be viewed at wileyonlinelibrary.com]

While a severe leukemoid reaction occurred from D10 in the 4T1 model (∼160 g l⁻¹), we only observed a slight effect in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model (∼27 g l⁻¹) close to endpoint (Fig. 4 a and 4b). In both models, segmented neutrophils accounted for ∼33% of leukocyte number before tumor cell inoculation and ∼85% at the endpoints. We also observed a differential lymphoid reaction between the models, in agreement with leukocyte counts. Wright‐stained blood smears confirmed results by allowing comparisons with data from healthy mice with tumor model endpoint data (Supporting Information Fig. S7). Although we observed a more moderate response in MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc, both models exhibited extensive granulocytosis (left shift) with predominant levels of polynuclear‐segmented leukocytes.

Immunophoretic analysis of blood serum revealed a significant and sudden increase in gamma‐globulin and alpha‐2‐globulin levels and a decrease in albumin levels at D42 in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model (Fig. 4 c). Moreover, we found increased beta globulin bands in 4T1 (D3) and MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc (D35) models, coinciding with the first evidence of lung metastasis (Fig. 4 c and 4d).

Exosomes play crucial roles in conditioning the premetastatic niche,19 and we used NTA of peripheral blood serum to assess exosomal dynamics during tumor progression. We discovered peak exosome levels on the first appearance of metastasis (D3) in 4T1 (Fig. 4e, Supporting Information Fig. S8), before returning to basal levels. However, we did not observe any fluctuations during tumor progression in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model.

Directly correlated with the immune system status, inflammatory response markers may predict clinical outcomes in cancer patients, and therefore, we evaluated the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), finding a rapid increase from D6 in the 4T1 model (Fig. 4 f). As an innate immune system effector, the complement system constitutes the first barrier against nonself cells and plays a decisive role in tumor growth.20 In agreement, 4T1 animals displayed increasing levels of C‐3 protein from D20 (Fig. 4 g).

Dysregulated bone marrow hematopoiesis in TNBC models: a role for G‐CSF in extramedullary hematopoiesis

Initial macroscopic organ analysis indicated acute splenomegaly (0.6–4% total body weight from D6 to D24) and slight hepatomegaly (4.8–6% total body weight over 24 days; Supporting Information Fig. S9a and S9b ) in the 4T1 model,21 but not the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model.

Histopathological studies of bone marrow uncovered reduced megakaryocytosis (Factor VIII), reduced myeloid cell precursors (myeloperoxidase), and enhanced granulocytosis (CD‐15) compared to healthy tissues (Fig. 5 a), supporting extramedullary hematopoiesis (EH) promoted by bone marrow myelosuppression (in agreement with previous hematological findings). Analysis of the enlarged spleen of the 4T1 model supported EH by reactive megakaryocytic hyperplasia, as evidenced by large numbers of Factor VIII‐positive megakaryocytes, and ongoing erythropoiesis, as evidenced by Glycophorin A‐positive erythroid‐precursors and mature erythrocytes (Fig. 5 b). Further studies revealed increased cellularity and congested red pulp with hyperplasia due to elevated reactive hematopoiesis (Supporting Information Fig. S9c and S9d ). Studies of the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model normal‐sized spleen highlighted reactive megakaryocytic hyperplasia as the unique pathological consequence of EH (Fig. 5 b).

Figure 5.

Extramedullary hematopoiesis promoted by G‐CSF occurred to a different extent between models and triggered mobilization of different myeloid precursors. In the first instance, G‐CSF impedes the normal maturation of myeloid cell precursors in bone marrow (a). Representative images of bone marrow in healthy and experimental end points, staining with H&E and immunostaining with Factor VIII, Myeloperoxidase, and CD‐15. (b) 4T1 and MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc cells secrete G‐CSF, which blocks normal bone marrow hematopoiesis and activates extramedullary hematopoiesis by stimulating the release of immature myeloid precursors. The 4T1 model presented hepatosplenomegaly as result of erythropoiesis (Glycophorin A+) and megakaryopoiesis (Factor VIII +) in the spleen and also megakaryopoiesis in the liver. Additionally, multiple colonies of myeloid cell precursors were found in the liver. The MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model does not present with erythropoiesis‐related hepatosplenomegaly (Glycophorin A−, in spleen and liver); however, prominent megakaryocytes were found in the spleen, as a result of strong megakaryopoiesis. (c) Levels of G‐CSF in the 4T1 model over time. (d) Levels of human and murine G‐CSF in the DA‐MB‐231‐Luc model at progressive time points. [Color figure can be viewed at wileyonlinelibrary.com]

In the 4T1 model, we observed overt signs of EH in the liver, as evidenced by increased myeloid precursor cell (MPC)22, 23, 24 perivascular infiltration into the surrounding hepatic arteries starting from D3 (Supporting Information Fig. S9e ). At later stages, MPCs entered the liver parenchyma to induce reactive megakaryocytic hyperplasia (Fig. 5 b). In contrast, MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model liver developed no significant macroscopic or histopathological abnormalities (Fig. 5 b).

To understand EH origin, we conducted immunoassays to analyze circulating granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF) levels.25 We discovered increasing levels of total G‐CSF in 4T1 model peripheral blood at early stages of tumor development (Fig. 5 c), in agreement with previous studies in immunocompetent mouse models.26 We also discovered increasing levels of tumor‐ and host‐derived G‐CSF during MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumor progression (Fig. 5 c). Of note, only in vitro studies have previously shown G‐CSF secretion from MDA‐MB‐231 cells.27 High human G‐CSF levels in MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc started increasing from D28 (Fig. 5 d) and correlated to the previously observed leukemoid/lymphoid reactions.

Discussion

The accelerated development of advanced anticancer therapies requires preclinical models and the identification of functional biomarkers to facilitate clinical translation28 and identification of patients who could benefit from therapies.29 In our study, we report the exhaustive characterization of relevant preclinical TNBC mouse models regarding systemic landscape, metastatic foci and metabolic alterations, paying particular attention to functional biomarkers. Both models develop homogeneous primary tumors with subsequent ALN and lungs metastasis, faithfully mimicking critical features of the human disease. Therefore, these models offer a useful platform for testing/validation of advanced anticancer therapeutics, especially for the treatment of patients presenting with both primary tumors and metastasis.

Modeling capacities of the 4T1 and MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc TNBC models

The rapid tumorigenic development encountered for the 4T1 model offers a rapid and straightforward means to assess treatment outcomes in an immunocompetent model. Model characteristics include aggressive primary tumor evolution as densely packed masses with slight anemia, thrombocytosis and reticulocytosis in the short term, and an acute leukemoid reaction with lymphocytosis and complement system activation in the mid‐to‐long term. In comparison, the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model displayed slower tumor growth with marked spontaneous inclusion of CAAs, known to exhibit an activated phenotype linked to the acquisition of a proinvasive effect of surrounding tumor cells.12 Therefore, high CAA content of MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumors may serve as a faithful model to study this phenomenon and develop treatments to avoid adipocytic protumorigenic effects. Furthermore, high‐lipid content and low‐cellular density in the tumor stroma generated a softer tumor mass with a threefold higher EPR effect, thereby providing a model to assess EPR‐related passive tumor accumulation, especially important for the effectiveness of nanomedicinal approaches to cancer treatment.7, 30, 31 The flexibility and permeability of the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model stroma may also provide a means to assess intratumoral administration strategies.32

The metabolomic comparison of 4T1 and MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc primary tumors suggests that specific metabolic alterations could explain the differences observed in growth rates, with guanosine and uracil (a pyrimidine derivative) the two most relevant soluble metabolites contributing to model discrimination. Interestingly, Tayyari et al.33 reported that TNBC tumors displayed increased pyrimidine synthesis and elevated levels of myoinositol and taurine, similar to findings in our 4T1 primary tumors. Metabolomic analysis of organic extracts provided further evidence for lipidic reprogramming in TNBC development and progression; in particular, 4T1 primary tumors displayed higher concentrations of cholesterol and phospholipids. These alterations reflect the avidity of proliferative cancer cells for lipids and cholesterol,34 a characteristic now considered a hallmark of cancer aggressiveness.34, 35 MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc primary tumors also displayed high levels of TAGs, whose hydrolysis in adipocytes adjacent to cancer cells generates free fatty acids for use as an energy source by tumor cells for tumor progression34 .

We observed spontaneous lung and ALN metastasis in both models; however, while studies suggest that the 4T1 model develops lung metastasis via the hematogenous route,13 we discovered earlier evidence of distal metastasis and subsequent rapid development predominantly through the lymphatic system, as observed in two recent studies.36, 37 Therefore, the 4T1 mouse model is ideal for the development and validation of lymph‐targeted anticancer therapies.38 Additionally, alterations to the complement system in the 4T1 model may provide a prognostic marker of disease progression or even a sign of treatment efficiency when using nonimmunogenic therapeutics (a safety requirement for systemic administration).

The role of G‐CSF as a critical functional biomarker of metastatic progression

The CSF subfamily of glycoproteins play crucial roles in inflammatory cell activation,39 bone marrow cell mobilization into the peripheral blood and immune system activation.40 Increasing levels of G‐CSF during 4T1 tumor progression26 may trigger passive compensatory EH and the concomitant leukemoid reaction with prominent hepatosplenomegaly.26 The leukemoid reaction is a well‐described paraneoplastic affection, arising in ∼15% of cancer patients, proposed as a prognostic marker for BC41 thereby ratifying the suitability of our 4T1 model as preclinical BC model.

The MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model presented similar hematological parameters to the 4T1 model at early stages; however, we did not observe a leukemoid reaction accompanying tumor growth, and the first evidence of metastasis occurred at later time points through the hematological pathway. Importantly, we observed that tumor‐ and host‐derived G‐CSF release concomitant with metastasis, led to the partial restoration of the immune system (granulocytosis and lymphocytosis) suggesting a “metastatic switch” appearing from the fourth week to trigger an immunological response in the immunosuppressed NOD/SCID mouse model. This suggests that stromal cells and/or host tumor‐infiltrating cells also represent a significant G‐CSF source.42 Although the reduced immunological competency of the host does not permit extended adaptive splenomegaly or hepatomegaly in this model, we observed slight passive EH in the spleen as a response to bone marrow myelosuppression. Surprisingly, we only observed lung metastasis from D28, concomitant with human G‐CSF release. Studies have proposed the indirect role of G‐CSF in premetastatic niche formation,43 a finding supported by our MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model discoveries. Therefore, we propose circulating G‐CSF levels as a prognostic indicator of disease and more importantly, the inhibition of cytokines such as CSFs as a promising therapeutic approach alone or in combination with metastatic inhibitors. We do note that the possible role of either human or host G‐CSF in the immune system reactivation of the NOD/SCID mice remains unresolved; although the leukemoid reaction triggered by the release of G‐CSF may be responsible for metastasis spread.

Our work emphasizes the active role of the immune system in metastatic spread in both models.44 We suggest, after the sudden changes at week four, that a quiescent MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc tumor subpopulation reactivates through a likely “metastatic switch”. Several tumor‐derived factors could be involved in the generation of premetastatic niche, and their overexpression could be a prerequisite for metastasis development.

Other biomarkers and predictive factors

Exosomes have emerged as regulators of intercellular and intracellular communication and can “tailor” the premetastatic niche for engraftment of cancer cells.19 Interestingly, the 4T1 model displayed significantly increased circulating blood exosomes at D3, simultaneous with the first evidence of lung metastasis, suggesting its active role in lung metastasis establishment.19 However, we did not find any modulation in exosome levels in MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc.

The prompt hyper‐β‐immunoglobulinemia detected in both models coincided with first signs of lung metastasis. Transferrin overexpression may be connected to neovascularization to influence metastatic capacity in BC.45 Transferrin‐like lipoproteins can specifically stimulate metastatic cell growth.46 Similarly, β‐lipoprotein (LDL) is intimately involved in angiogenic regulation, with a direct connection between LDL levels and metastatic progress.47 In this context, our metabolomics analyses confirmed that lipid metabolism alterations closely associates with TNBC malignancy and metastatic progression to the lungs.

Finally, studies have demonstrated that NLR associates with poorer prognosis in human cancers48; high NLR associates with reduced disease‐free survival (DFS). Applying this prognostic factor in our 4T1 model, NLR values indicate worse prognosis from D6 to D10, mimicking advanced stages of the disease and providing a tool to develop therapeutics devoted to recurrent or metastatic scenarios.

Metabolomic metastatic signature

Metabolomic analysis of lung tissues revealed distinct signatures for both models. Some metabolites exhibited the same trend when comparing metastatic and healthy lung tissues (taurine, glutamate, UDP‐NAG and glucose), reflecting common alterations. For example, the metabolism of glutamate/glutamine and taurine/hypotaurine plays a significant role in TNBC33 and UDP‐derivatives have been linked to metastasis.49 A second important group of metabolites, mostly composed of amino acids, exhibited changes in the opposite direction when comparing metastatic and healthy lung tissues. The differences in amino acids levels may relate to different growth kinetics, much faster for the 4T1 model therefore requiring more energy. Of note, several amino acids that exhibited lower concentrations in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model metastatic lung (i.e., leucine, isoleucine and valine) are branched amino acids (BCAA) and studies have indicated an association between increased concentrations of BCAA and chemotherapy‐induced apoptotic processes.8 Interestingly, the ratio of choline/GPC indicates the acidic nature of metastatic tumors, since lower pH (typical of tumor cells) leads to decreased PC and increased GPC.50 High glutamine consumption correlates with the essential function of glutaminase in TNBC development.51 Decreased creatine phosphate levels, perhaps related to hypoxic regions within the metastasis,52 also correlated with the reduced pH characteristic of tumors.

We also found several unique metabolic changes for each model. In 4T1 metastatic lungs, we discovered increased phenylalanine levels53 (related to advanced stages of the disease), aspartate8 (upregulated glutaminolysis) and ATP + ADP (fueling metastatic survival). Analysis of MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc metastatic lungs revealed a specific increase in glutathione levels, a molecule that plays protective and pathogenic roles and promotes chemoresistance,54 and GPC levels. Overall, the metabolomic signature for lung metastases in each model reflects the different molecular and biochemical mechanisms associated with metastatic spread, which could be used as a biomarker for disease monitoring during preclinical evaluation (see also Supporting information Fig. S10).

One limitation of our study lies in the characterization of only one subtype, representing ∼15% of all TNBC types. Therefore, a similar analysis of other TNBC subtypes would provide additional information that could be relevant from a clinical standpoint. We are also aware of the lack of tumor resection during the characterization of the metastatic spread to lungs, an intervention that would also closely mimic the clinical situation. Nevertheless, we believe that studying metastasis in the presence of the primary tumor could aid the development of therapies for patients exhibiting both tumor modalities, who currently lack adequate preclinical models.

Conclusion

Within this present study, we describe the progression of two preclinical spontaneously metastatic TNBC models relevant for the development of anticancer therapeutics (summary of main features in Fig. 6). We concentrated on the pathological features that ultimately drive anticancer treatment and, therefore, patient outcomes. Our exhaustive characterization demonstrated MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc metastatic progression in the NOD/SCID model. We also discovered a metastatic switch in both models (MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc and 4T1) with immune system activation and serum‐protein profile reconfiguration, which may support resistance to treatment and recurrence in TNBC. The detailed characterization of relevant models such as these will help to foster the rational design of anticancer therapeutics. Importantly, we identified critical functional biomarkers including the EPR effect, G‐CSF, CAA infiltration, NLR, complement activation and metabolomic signatures for metastasis progression that may further facilitate the development of anticancer therapeutics.

Figure 6.

Summary of the main features of TNBC preclinical models. (a) Suggested suitability for different aspects of therapy development demonstrating evident complementarity of the models for TNBC drug discovery and validation. (b) Timeline of TNBC tumor progression indicating main differential features between 4T1 and MDA‐MB231‐Luc regarding primary tumor, including stroma and metastatic sites. Abbreviations: CAA, cancer‐associated adipocytes; EPR, enhanced permeability and retention effect; G‐CSF, granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor; GPC, glycerylphosphorylcholine; TGA, triacylglycerol. [Color figure can be viewed at wileyonlinelibrary.com]

Authors' contributions

JJA‐C, AA and MJV developed the concept and design. JJA‐C, AA, DC, MP‐S, and CD developed the experimental methodology. JF, JJA‐C and AA coordinated the acquisition and interpretation of histopathological data. JJA‐C, AA and DC coordinated the acquisition and interpretation of noninvasive imaging data. AP‐L, MP‐S, JJA‐C, AA and RL‐D coordinated the acquisition and interpretation of metabolomic data. JJA‐C, AA, MJV, JF, AP‐L and RL‐D performed analysis and assisted interpretation of data. JJA‐C, AA, MJV, JF and AP‐L drafted, reviewed and/or revised the article. AA and MJV supervised the study.

Supporting information

Appendix S1: Supporting Information