The Relevance of Ultrastructural Studies of Metastatic Cells from Women with Breast Cancer History

• Published in: Microscopy and microanalysis 2022-02, Vol.28 (1), p.210-217
• Main Authors: Moreira, Isabela Delfino, Peres, André, Campos, Ariane, Bica, Claudia Giuliano, dos Santos, Giovana Tavares, Prolla, João Carlos, Carús, Lauren Arrusul, Ferreira, Mariana Simões, Fernandes, Marilda da Cruz, Bassani, Naiane Carlesso, Introíni, Gisele Orlandi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biological Applications; Breast cancer; Breast Neoplasms; Carcinoma; Cell fusion; Cell Line, Tumor; Clusters; Cysts; Cytoplasm; Digital imaging; Endoplasmic reticulum; Exocytosis; Female; Humans; Image transmission; Invasiveness; Leukocytes; Lung Neoplasms - pathology; Medical prognosis; Metastases; Metastasis; Microenvironments; Mitochondria; Morphology; Patients; Phenotypes; Pleural effusion; Pleural Effusion, Malignant - pathology; Statuary; Structural stability; Transmission electron microscopy; Tumor Microenvironment
• ISSN: 1431-9276; 1435-8115
• DOI: 10.1017/S1431927621013581

The interaction between cancer cells and the surrounding microenvironment is determinant for metastasis success. In this study, the ultrastructural relevance of cells in the malignant pleural effusion (MPE) of women with breast cancer history was investigated. In MPE, it is possible to observe single cells and clusters. Women whose MPE presents carcinomas in aggregates have a better prognosis when compared to cases in which metastatic single cells are found. Samples were collected via fine-needle aspiration puncture (US-FNA). Subsequent to the material preparation and ultrathin cuts, they were observed using light and transmission electron microscopy (LM/TEM). LM and TEM images served as a basis for the creation of a digital sculpture using ZBrush® software. Clusters exhibited structural stability, en route vesicles allowing exocytosis of electron-dense fibrous elements, and cytoplasmic protrusions contributing to migratory and invasive skills. Single cells presented different necrotic phenotypes and many displayed leukocyte-like characteristics. Cluster cooperative relationships seem to be related to a long-term permanence in MPE. The absence of a collaborative network presumably triggers a more aggressive behavior of single cells. Its putative fusion with leukocytes can maximize the efficiency for transendothelial migration, increasing chances of metastatic success and, unfortunately, reducing survival of women with recidivism.