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Carnevali IW, Cini G, Libera L, Sahnane N, Facchi S, Viel A, Sessa F, Tibiletti MG. MLH1 Promoter Methylation Could Be the Second Hit in Lynch Syndrome Carcinogenesis. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:2060. [PMID: 38003003 PMCID: PMC10670941 DOI: 10.3390/genes14112060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: MLH1 hypermethylation is an epigenetic alteration in the tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC) and endometrial cancer (EC), causing gene silencing, and, as a consequence, microsatellite instability. Commonly, MLH1 hypermethylation is considered a somatic and sporadic event in cancer, and its detection is recognized as a useful tool to distinguish sporadic from inherited conditions (such as, Lynch syndrome (LS)). However, MLH1 hypermethylation has been described in rare cases of CRC and EC in LS patients. (2) Methods: A total of 61 cancers (31 CRCs, 27 ECs, 2 ovarian cancers, and 1 stomach cancer) from 56 patients referred to cancer genetic counselling were selected for loss of MLH1 protein expression and microsatellite instability. All cases were investigated for MLH1 promoter methylation and MLH1/PMS2 germline variants. (3) Results: Somatic MLH1 promoter hypermethylation was identified in 16.7% of CRC and in 40% of EC carriers of MLH1 germline pathogenic variants. In two families, primary and secondary MLH1 epimutations were demonstrated. (4) Conclusions: MLH1 hypermethylation should not be exclusively considered as a sporadic cancer mechanism, as a non-negligible number of LS-related cancers are MLH1 hypermethylated. Current flow charts for universal LS screening, which include MLH1 methylation, should be applied, paying attention to a patient's family and personal history.
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Barnes DR, Silvestri V, Leslie G, McGuffog L, Dennis J, Yang X, Adlard J, Agnarsson BA, Ahmed M, Aittomäki K, Andrulis IL, Arason A, Arnold N, Auber B, Azzollini J, Balmaña J, Barkardottir RB, Barrowdale D, Barwell J, Belotti M, Benitez J, Berthet P, Boonen SE, Borg Å, Bozsik A, Brady AF, Brennan P, Brewer C, Brunet J, Bucalo A, Buys SS, Caldés T, Caligo MA, Campbell I, Cassingham H, Christensen LL, Cini G, Claes KBM, Cook J, Coppa A, Cortesi L, Damante G, Darder E, Davidson R, de la Hoya M, De Leeneer K, de Putter R, Del Valle J, Diez O, Ding YC, Domchek SM, Donaldson A, Eason J, Eeles R, Engel C, Evans DG, Feliubadaló L, Fostira F, Frone M, Frost D, Gallagher D, Gehrig A, Giraud S, Glendon G, Godwin AK, Goldgar DE, Greene MH, Gregory H, Gross E, Hahnen E, Hamann U, Hansen TVO, Hanson H, Hentschel J, Horvath J, Izatt L, Izquierdo A, James PA, Janavicius R, Jensen UB, Johannsson OT, John EM, Kramer G, Kroeldrup L, Kruse TA, Lautrup C, Lazaro C, Lesueur F, Lopez-Fernández A, Mai PL, Manoukian S, Matrai Z, Matricardi L, Maxwell KN, Mebirouk N, Meindl A, Montagna M, Monteiro AN, Morrison PJ, Muranen TA, Murray A, Nathanson KL, Neuhausen SL, Nevanlinna H, Nguyen-Dumont T, Niederacher D, Olah E, Olopade OI, Palli D, Parsons MT, Pedersen IS, Peissel B, Perez-Segura P, Peterlongo P, Petersen AH, Pinto P, Porteous ME, Pottinger C, Pujana MA, Radice P, Ramser J, Rantala J, Robson M, Rogers MT, Rønlund K, Rump A, Sánchez de Abajo AM, Shah PD, Sharif S, Side LE, Singer CF, Stadler Z, Steele L, Stoppa-Lyonnet D, Sutter C, Tan YY, Teixeira MR, Teulé A, Thull DL, Tischkowitz M, Toland AE, Tommasi S, Toss A, Trainer AH, Tripathi V, Valentini V, van Asperen CJ, Venturelli M, Viel A, Vijai J, Walker L, Wang-Gohrke S, Wappenschmidt B, Whaite A, Zanna I, Offit K, Thomassen M, Couch FJ, Schmutzler RK, Simard J, Easton DF, Chenevix-Trench G, Antoniou AC, Ottini L. Breast and Prostate Cancer Risks for Male BRCA1 and BRCA2 Pathogenic Variant Carriers Using Polygenic Risk Scores. J Natl Cancer Inst 2022; 114:109-122. [PMID: 34320204 PMCID: PMC8755508 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djab147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent population-based female breast cancer and prostate cancer polygenic risk scores (PRS) have been developed. We assessed the associations of these PRS with breast and prostate cancer risks for male BRCA1 and BRCA2 pathogenic variant carriers. METHODS 483 BRCA1 and 1318 BRCA2 European ancestry male carriers were available from the Consortium of Investigators of Modifiers of BRCA1/2 (CIMBA). A 147-single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) prostate cancer PRS (PRSPC) and a 313-SNP breast cancer PRS were evaluated. There were 3 versions of the breast cancer PRS, optimized to predict overall (PRSBC), estrogen receptor (ER)-negative (PRSER-), or ER-positive (PRSER+) breast cancer risk. RESULTS PRSER+ yielded the strongest association with breast cancer risk. The odds ratios (ORs) per PRSER+ standard deviation estimates were 1.40 (95% confidence interval [CI] =1.07 to 1.83) for BRCA1 and 1.33 (95% CI = 1.16 to 1.52) for BRCA2 carriers. PRSPC was associated with prostate cancer risk for BRCA1 (OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.28 to 2.33) and BRCA2 (OR = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.34 to 1.91) carriers. The estimated breast cancer odds ratios were larger after adjusting for female relative breast cancer family history. By age 85 years, for BRCA2 carriers, the breast cancer risk varied from 7.7% to 18.4% and prostate cancer risk from 34.1% to 87.6% between the 5th and 95th percentiles of the PRS distributions. CONCLUSIONS Population-based prostate and female breast cancer PRS are associated with a wide range of absolute breast and prostate cancer risks for male BRCA1 and BRCA2 carriers. These findings warrant further investigation aimed at providing personalized cancer risks for male carriers and informing clinical management.
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Dell'Elice A, Cini G, Fornasarig M, Armelao F, Barana D, Bianchi F, Casalis Cavalchini GC, Maffè A, Mammi I, Pedroni M, Percesepe A, Sorrentini I, Tibiletti M, Maestro R, Quaia M, Viel A. Filling the gap: A thorough investigation for the genetic diagnosis of unsolved polyposis patients with monoallelic MUTYH pathogenic variants. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2021; 9:e1831. [PMID: 34704405 PMCID: PMC8683633 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds MUTYH‐associated polyposis (MAP) is an autosomal recessive disease caused by biallelic pathogenic variants (PV) of the MUTYH gene. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic causes of unexplained polyposis patients with monoallelic MUTYH PV. The analysis focused on 26 patients with suspected MAP, belonging to 23 families. Ten probands carried also one or more additional MUTYH variants of unknown significance. Methods Based on variant type and on the collected clinical and molecular data, these variants were reinterpreted by applying the ACMG/AMP rules. Moreover, supplementary analyses were carried out to investigate the presence of other variants and copy number variations in the coding and promoter regions of MUTYH, as well as other polyposis genes (APC, NTHL1, POLE, POLD1, MSH3, RNF43, and MCM9). Results We reclassified 4 out of 10 MUTYH variants as pathogenic or likely pathogenic, thus supporting the diagnosis of MAP in only four cases. Two other patients belonging to the same family showed a previously undetected deletion of the APC gene promoter. No PVs were found in the other investigated genes. However, 6 out of the 18 remaining families are still interesting MAP candidates, due to the co‐presence of a class 3 MUTYH variant that could be reinterpreted in the next future. Conclusion Several efforts are necessary to fully elucidate the genetic etiology of suspected MAP patients, especially those with the most severe polyposis/tumor phenotype. Clinical data, tumor molecular profile, family history, and polyposis inheritance mode may guide variant interpretation and address supplementary studies.
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Cini G, Carnevali I, Sahnane N, Chiaravalli AM, Dell'Elice A, Maestro R, Pin E, Bestetti I, Radovic S, Armelao F, Viel A, Tibiletti MG. Lynch syndrome and Muir-Torre phenotype associated with a recurrent variant in the 3'UTR of the MSH6 gene. Cancer Genet 2021; 254-255:1-10. [PMID: 33516942 DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergen.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A MSH6 3'UTR variant (c.*23_26dup) was found in 13 unrelated families consulted for Lynch/Muir-Torre Syndrome. This variant, which is very rare in the genomic databases, was absent in healthy controls and strongly segregated with the disease in the studied pedigrees. All tumors were defective for MSH2/MSH6/MSH3 proteins expression, but only MSH2 somatic pathogenic mutations were found in 5 of the 12 sequenced tumors. Moreover, we had no evidence of MSH6 transcript decrease in carriers, whereas MSH2 transcript was downregulated. Additional evaluations performed in representative carriers, including karyotype, arrayCGH and Linked-Reads whole genome sequencing, failed to evidence any MSH2 germline pathogenic variant. Posterior probability of pathogenicity for MSH6 c.*23_26dup was obtained from a multifactorial analysis incorporating segregation and phenotypic data and resulted >0.999, allowing to classify the variant as pathogenic (InSiGHT Class 5). Carriers shared a common haplotype involving MSH2/MSH6 loci, then a cryptic disease-associated variant, linked with MSH6 c.*23_26dup, cannot be completely excluded. Even if it is not clear whether the MSH6 variant is pathogenic per se or simply a marker of a disease-associated MSH2/MSH6 haplotype, all data collected on patients and pedigrees prompted us to manage the variant as pathogenic and to offer predictive testing within these families.
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Parsons MT, Tudini E, Li H, Hahnen E, Wappenschmidt B, Feliubadaló L, Aalfs CM, Agata S, Aittomäki K, Alducci E, Alonso‐Cerezo MC, Arnold N, Auber B, Austin R, Azzollini J, Balmaña J, Barbieri E, Bartram CR, Blanco A, Blümcke B, Bonache S, Bonanni B, Borg Å, Bortesi B, Brunet J, Bruzzone C, Bucksch K, Cagnoli G, Caldés T, Caliebe A, Caligo MA, Calvello M, Capone GL, Caputo SM, Carnevali I, Carrasco E, Caux‐Moncoutier V, Cavalli P, Cini G, Clarke EM, Concolino P, Cops EJ, Cortesi L, Couch FJ, Darder E, de la Hoya M, Dean M, Debatin I, Del Valle J, Delnatte C, Derive N, Diez O, Ditsch N, Domchek SM, Dutrannoy V, Eccles DM, Ehrencrona H, Enders U, Evans DG, Farra C, Faust U, Felbor U, Feroce I, Fine M, Foulkes WD, Galvao HC, Gambino G, Gehrig A, Gensini F, Gerdes A, Germani A, Giesecke J, Gismondi V, Gómez C, Gómez Garcia EB, González S, Grau E, Grill S, Gross E, Guerrieri‐Gonzaga A, Guillaud‐Bataille M, Gutiérrez‐Enríquez S, Haaf T, Hackmann K, Hansen TV, Harris M, Hauke J, Heinrich T, Hellebrand H, Herold KN, Honisch E, Horvath J, Houdayer C, Hübbel V, Iglesias S, Izquierdo A, James PA, Janssen LA, Jeschke U, Kaulfuß S, Keupp K, Kiechle M, Kölbl A, Krieger S, Kruse TA, Kvist A, Lalloo F, Larsen M, Lattimore VL, Lautrup C, Ledig S, Leinert E, Lewis AL, Lim J, Loeffler M, López‐Fernández A, Lucci‐Cordisco E, Maass N, Manoukian S, Marabelli M, Matricardi L, Meindl A, Michelli RD, Moghadasi S, Moles‐Fernández A, Montagna M, Montalban G, Monteiro AN, Montes E, Mori L, Moserle L, Müller CR, Mundhenke C, Naldi N, Nathanson KL, Navarro M, Nevanlinna H, Nichols CB, Niederacher D, Nielsen HR, Ong K, Pachter N, Palmero EI, Papi L, Pedersen IS, Peissel B, Perez‐Segura P, Pfeifer K, Pineda M, Pohl‐Rescigno E, Poplawski NK, Porfirio B, Quante AS, Ramser J, Reis RM, Revillion F, Rhiem K, Riboli B, Ritter J, Rivera D, Rofes P, Rump A, Salinas M, Sánchez de Abajo AM, Schmidt G, Schoenwiese U, Seggewiß J, Solanes A, Steinemann D, Stiller M, Stoppa‐Lyonnet D, Sullivan KJ, Susman R, Sutter C, Tavtigian SV, Teo SH, Teulé A, Thomassen M, Tibiletti MG, Tischkowitz M, Tognazzo S, Toland AE, Tornero E, Törngren T, Torres‐Esquius S, Toss A, Trainer AH, Tucker KM, van Asperen CJ, van Mackelenbergh MT, Varesco L, Vargas‐Parra G, Varon R, Vega A, Velasco Á, Vesper A, Viel A, Vreeswijk MPG, Wagner SA, Waha A, Walker LC, Walters RJ, Wang‐Gohrke S, Weber BHF, Weichert W, Wieland K, Wiesmüller L, Witzel I, Wöckel A, Woodward ER, Zachariae S, Zampiga V, Zeder‐Göß C, Investigators KC, Lázaro C, De Nicolo A, Radice P, Engel C, Schmutzler RK, Goldgar DE, Spurdle AB. Large scale multifactorial likelihood quantitative analysis of BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants: An ENIGMA resource to support clinical variant classification. Hum Mutat 2019; 40:1557-1578. [PMID: 31131967 PMCID: PMC6772163 DOI: 10.1002/humu.23818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The multifactorial likelihood analysis method has demonstrated utility for quantitative assessment of variant pathogenicity for multiple cancer syndrome genes. Independent data types currently incorporated in the model for assessing BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants include clinically calibrated prior probability of pathogenicity based on variant location and bioinformatic prediction of variant effect, co-segregation, family cancer history profile, co-occurrence with a pathogenic variant in the same gene, breast tumor pathology, and case-control information. Research and clinical data for multifactorial likelihood analysis were collated for 1,395 BRCA1/2 predominantly intronic and missense variants, enabling classification based on posterior probability of pathogenicity for 734 variants: 447 variants were classified as (likely) benign, and 94 as (likely) pathogenic; and 248 classifications were new or considerably altered relative to ClinVar submissions. Classifications were compared with information not yet included in the likelihood model, and evidence strengths aligned to those recommended for ACMG/AMP classification codes. Altered mRNA splicing or function relative to known nonpathogenic variant controls were moderately to strongly predictive of variant pathogenicity. Variant absence in population datasets provided supporting evidence for variant pathogenicity. These findings have direct relevance for BRCA1 and BRCA2 variant evaluation, and justify the need for gene-specific calibration of evidence types used for variant classification.
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Cini G, Quaia M, Canzonieri V, Fornasarig M, Maestro R, Morabito A, D'Elia AV, Urso ED, Mammi I, Viel A. Toward a better definition of EPCAM deletions in Lynch Syndrome: Report of new variants in Italy and the associated molecular phenotype. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e587. [PMID: 30916491 PMCID: PMC6503020 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inherited epimutations of Mismatch Repair (MMR) genes are responsible for Lynch Syndrome (LS) in a small, but well defined, subset of patients. Methylation of the MSH2 promoter consequent to the deletion of the upstream EPCAM gene is found in about 1%–3% of the LS patients and represents a classical secondary, constitutional and tissue‐specific epimutation. Several different EPCAM deletions have been reported worldwide, for the most part representing private variants caused by an Alu‐mediated recombination. Methods 712 patients with suspected LS were tested for MMR mutation in our Institute. EPCAM deletions were detected by multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and then defined by Long‐Range polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/Sanger sequencing. A comprehensive molecular characterization of colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues was carried out by immunohistochemistry of MMR proteins, Microsatellite Instability (MSI) assay, methylation specific MLPA and transcript analyses. In addition, somatic deletions and/or variants were investigated by MLPA and next generation sequencing (NGS). Results An EPCAM deletion was found in five unrelated probands in Italy: variants c.556‐490_*8438del and c.858+1193_*5826del are novel; c.859‐1430_*2033del and c.859‐670_*530del were previously reported. All probands were affected by CRC at young age; tumors showed MSI and abnormal MSH2/MSH6 proteins expression. MSH2 promoter methylation, as well as aberrant in‐frame or out‐of‐frame EPCAM/MSH2 fusion transcripts, were detected in CRCs and normal mucosae. Conclusion An EPCAM deletion was the causative variant in about 2% of our institutional series of 224 LS patients, consistent with previously estimated frequencies. Early age and multiple CRCs was the main clinical feature of this subset of patients.
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Lecarpentier J, Silvestri V, Kuchenbaecker KB, Barrowdale D, Dennis J, McGuffog L, Soucy P, Leslie G, Rizzolo P, Navazio AS, Valentini V, Zelli V, Lee A, Amin Al Olama A, Tyrer JP, Southey M, John EM, Conner TA, Goldgar DE, Buys SS, Janavicius R, Steele L, Ding YC, Neuhausen SL, Hansen TV, Osorio A, Weitzel JN, Toss A, Medici V, Cortesi L, Zanna I, Palli D, Radice P, Manoukian S, Peissel B, Azzollini J, Viel A, Cini G, Damante G, Tommasi S, Peterlongo P, Fostira F, Hamann U, Evans DG, Henderson A, Brewer C, Eccles D, Cook J, Ong KR, Walker L, Side LE, Porteous ME, Davidson R, Hodgson S, Frost D, Adlard J, Izatt L, Eeles R, Ellis S, Tischkowitz M, Godwin AK, Meindl A, Gehrig A, Dworniczak B, Sutter C, Engel C, Niederacher D, Steinemann D, Hahnen E, Hauke J, Rhiem K, Kast K, Arnold N, Ditsch N, Wang-Gohrke S, Wappenschmidt B, Wand D, Lasset C, Stoppa-Lyonnet D, Belotti M, Damiola F, Barjhoux L, Mazoyer S, Van Heetvelde M, Poppe B, De Leeneer K, Claes KB, de la Hoya M, Garcia-Barberan V, Caldes T, Perez Segura P, Kiiski JI, Aittomäki K, Khan S, Nevanlinna H, van Asperen CJ, Vaszko T, Kasler M, Olah E, Balmaña J, Gutiérrez-Enríquez S, Diez O, Teulé A, Izquierdo A, Darder E, Brunet J, Del Valle J, Feliubadalo L, Pujana MA, Lazaro C, Arason A, Agnarsson BA, Johannsson OT, Barkardottir RB, Alducci E, Tognazzo S, Montagna M, Teixeira MR, Pinto P, Spurdle AB, Holland H, Lee JW, Lee MH, Lee J, Kim SW, Kang E, Kim Z, Sharma P, Rebbeck TR, Vijai J, Robson M, Lincoln A, Musinsky J, Gaddam P, Tan YY, Berger A, Singer CF, Loud JT, Greene MH, Mulligan AM, Glendon G, Andrulis IL, Toland AE, Senter L, Bojesen A, Nielsen HR, Skytte AB, Sunde L, Jensen UB, Pedersen IS, Krogh L, Kruse TA, Caligo MA, Yoon SY, Teo SH, von Wachenfeldt A, Huo D, Nielsen SM, Olopade OI, Nathanson KL, Domchek SM, Lorenchick C, Jankowitz RC, Campbell I, James P, Mitchell G, Orr N, Park SK, Thomassen M, Offit K, Couch FJ, Simard J, Easton DF, Chenevix-Trench G, Schmutzler RK, Antoniou AC, Ottini L. Prediction of Breast and Prostate Cancer Risks in Male BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutation Carriers Using Polygenic Risk Scores. J Clin Oncol 2017; 35:2240-2250. [PMID: 28448241 PMCID: PMC5501359 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2016.69.4935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose BRCA1/2 mutations increase the risk of breast and prostate cancer in men. Common genetic variants modify cancer risks for female carriers of BRCA1/2 mutations. We investigated-for the first time to our knowledge-associations of common genetic variants with breast and prostate cancer risks for male carriers of BRCA1/ 2 mutations and implications for cancer risk prediction. Materials and Methods We genotyped 1,802 male carriers of BRCA1/2 mutations from the Consortium of Investigators of Modifiers of BRCA1/2 by using the custom Illumina OncoArray. We investigated the combined effects of established breast and prostate cancer susceptibility variants on cancer risks for male carriers of BRCA1/2 mutations by constructing weighted polygenic risk scores (PRSs) using published effect estimates as weights. Results In male carriers of BRCA1/2 mutations, PRS that was based on 88 female breast cancer susceptibility variants was associated with breast cancer risk (odds ratio per standard deviation of PRS, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.19 to 1.56; P = 8.6 × 10-6). Similarly, PRS that was based on 103 prostate cancer susceptibility variants was associated with prostate cancer risk (odds ratio per SD of PRS, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.35 to 1.81; P = 3.2 × 10-9). Large differences in absolute cancer risks were observed at the extremes of the PRS distribution. For example, prostate cancer risk by age 80 years at the 5th and 95th percentiles of the PRS varies from 7% to 26% for carriers of BRCA1 mutations and from 19% to 61% for carriers of BRCA2 mutations, respectively. Conclusion PRSs may provide informative cancer risk stratification for male carriers of BRCA1/2 mutations that might enable these men and their physicians to make informed decisions on the type and timing of breast and prostate cancer risk management.
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Peterlongo P, Catucci I, Colombo M, Caleca L, Mucaki E, Bogliolo M, Marin M, Damiola F, Bernard L, Pensotti V, Volorio S, Dall'Olio V, Meindl A, Bartram C, Sutter C, Surowy H, Sornin V, Dondon MG, Eon-Marchais S, Stoppa-Lyonnet D, Andrieu N, Sinilnikova OM, Mitchell G, James PA, Thompson E, Marchetti M, Verzeroli C, Tartari C, Capone GL, Putignano AL, Genuardi M, Medici V, Marchi I, Federico M, Tognazzo S, Matricardi L, Agata S, Dolcetti R, Della Puppa L, Cini G, Gismondi V, Viassolo V, Perfumo C, Mencarelli MA, Baldassarri M, Peissel B, Roversi G, Silvestri V, Rizzolo P, Spina F, Vivanet C, Tibiletti MG, Caligo MA, Gambino G, Tommasi S, Pilato B, Tondini C, Corna C, Bonanni B, Barile M, Osorio A, Benitez J, Balestrino L, Ottini L, Manoukian S, Pierotti MA, Renieri A, Varesco L, Couch FJ, Wang X, Devilee P, Hilbers FS, van Asperen CJ, Viel A, Montagna M, Cortesi L, Diez O, Balmaña J, Hauke J, Schmutzler RK, Papi L, Pujana MA, Lázaro C, Falanga A, Offit K, Vijai J, Campbell I, Burwinkel B, Kvist A, Ehrencrona H, Mazoyer S, Pizzamiglio S, Verderio P, Surralles J, Rogan PK, Radice P. FANCM c.5791C>T nonsense mutation (rs144567652) induces exon skipping, affects DNA repair activity and is a familial breast cancer risk factor. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 24:5345-55. [PMID: 26130695 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous genetic factors that influence breast cancer risk are known. However, approximately two-thirds of the overall familial risk remain unexplained. To determine whether some of the missing heritability is due to rare variants conferring high to moderate risk, we tested for an association between the c.5791C>T nonsense mutation (p.Arg1931*; rs144567652) in exon 22 of FANCM gene and breast cancer. An analysis of genotyping data from 8635 familial breast cancer cases and 6625 controls from different countries yielded an association between the c.5791C>T mutation and breast cancer risk [odds ratio (OR) = 3.93 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.28-12.11; P = 0.017)]. Moreover, we performed two meta-analyses of studies from countries with carriers in both cases and controls and of all available data. These analyses showed breast cancer associations with OR = 3.67 (95% CI = 1.04-12.87; P = 0.043) and OR = 3.33 (95% CI = 1.09-13.62; P = 0.032), respectively. Based on information theory-based prediction, we established that the mutation caused an out-of-frame deletion of exon 22, due to the creation of a binding site for the pre-mRNA processing protein hnRNP A1. Furthermore, genetic complementation analyses showed that the mutation influenced the DNA repair activity of the FANCM protein. In summary, we provide evidence for the first time showing that the common p.Arg1931* loss-of-function variant in FANCM is a risk factor for familial breast cancer.
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Giusti C, Cini G, Graci C. Left anterior hemiblock versus healed old diaphragmatic myocardial infarction. Adv Cardiol 2015; 16:490-4. [PMID: 1274762 DOI: 10.1159/000398447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Cini G, Carnevali I, Quaia M, Chiaravalli AM, Sala P, Giacomini E, Maestro R, Tibiletti MG, Viel A. Concomitant mutation and epimutation of the MLH1 gene in a Lynch syndrome family. Carcinogenesis 2015; 36:452-8. [DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgv015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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Ottini L, Rizzolo P, Zanna I, Silvestri V, Saieva C, Falchetti M, Masala G, Navazio AS, Capalbo C, Bianchi S, Manoukian S, Barile M, Peterlongo P, Caligo MA, Varesco L, Tommasi S, Russo A, Giannini G, Cortesi L, Cini G, Montagna M, Radice P, Palli D. Association of SULT1A1 Arg²¹³His polymorphism with male breast cancer risk: results from a multicenter study in Italy. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2014; 148:623-8. [PMID: 25385181 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-014-3193-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Male breast cancer (MBC) is rare and poorly understood. Like female breast cancer (FBC), MBCs are highly sensitive to hormonal changes, and hyperestrogenism, specifically, represents a major risk factor for MBC. MBC is considered similar to late-onset, post-menopausal estrogen/progesteron receptors positive FBC (ER+/PR+). Sulfotransferase 1A1 (SULT1A1) is an enzyme involved in the metabolism of estrogens. Recently, SULT1A1 common functional polymorphism Arg(213)His (638G>A) variant has been found to be associated with increased breast cancer (BC) risk, particularly in post-menopausal women. For this reason, we decided to explore whether SULT1A1 Arg(213)His could exert an effect on MBC development. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the SULT1A1 Arg(213)His polymorphism on MBC risk. The secondary aim was to investigate possible associations with relevant clinical-pathologic features of MBC. A total of 394 MBC cases and 786 healthy male controls were genotyped for SULT1A1 Arg(213)His polymorphism by PCR-RFLP and high-resolution melting analysis. All MBC cases were characterized for relevant clinical-pathologic features. A significant difference in the distribution of SULT1A1 Arg(213)His genotypes was found between MBC cases and controls (P < 0.0001). The analysis of genotype-specific risk showed a significant increased MBC risk in individuals with G/A (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.50-2.59; P < 0.0001) and A/A (OR 3.09, 95% CI 1.83-5.23; P < 0.0001) genotypes in comparison to wild-type genotype, under co-dominant model. A significant association between SULT1A1 risk genotypes and HER2 status emerged. Results indicate that SULT1A1 Arg(213)His may act as a low-penetrance risk allele for developing MBC and could be associated with a specific tumor subtype associated with HER2 overexpression.
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Cini G, Carpi A, Mechanick J, Cini L, Camici M, Galetta F, Giardino R, Russo M, Iervasi G. Thyroid hormones and the cardiovascular system: Pathophysiology and interventions. Biomed Pharmacother 2009; 63:742-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2009.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2009] [Accepted: 08/24/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Galetta F, Franzoni F, Fallahi P, Tocchini L, Graci F, Gaddeo C, Rossi M, Cini G, Carpi A, Santoro G, Antonelli A. Changes in autonomic regulation and ventricular repolarization induced by subclinical hyperthyroidism. Biomed Pharmacother 2009; 64:546-9. [PMID: 20650598 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2009.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2009] [Accepted: 10/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of subclinical hyperthyroidism (SHT) on cardiovascular autonomic function and ventricular repolarization. METHODS Thirty subjects (25 females; mean age 49.6 ± 9.8 years) with SHT, as judged by reduced TSH serum levels and normal free T4 and T3 serum levels, and 30 age and sex-matched control subjects underwent standard 12-lead ECG, and 24h ambulatory ECG monitoring. The dispersion of the QT interval, an index of inhomogeneity of repolarization, and the heart rate variability (HRV), a measure of cardiac autonomic modulation, were studied. RESULTS Patients with SHT showed higher QT dispersion (p<0.001) and lower HRV measures (0.01>p<0.001) than controls. In SHT patients, QT dispersion was inversely related to HRV (r=-0.47, p<0.01). CONCLUSION The results of the present study demonstrated that SHT is associated with a sympathovagal imbalance, characterized by increased sympathetic activity in the presence of diminished vagal tone, and with an increased inhomogeneity of ventricular recovery times. The assessment of HRV and QT dispersion in patients with SHT may represent a useful tool in monitoring the cardiovascular risk of this condition.
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Neri B, Doni L, Gemelli MT, Fulignati C, Turrini M, Di Cello V, Dominici A, Maleci M, Mottola A, Ponchietti R, Raugei A, Valsuani G, Cini G. Phase II trial of weekly intravenous gemcitabine administration with interferon and interleukin-2 immunotherapy for metastatic renal cell cancer. J Urol 2002; 168:956-8. [PMID: 12187198 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-5347(05)64550-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Since metastatic renal cell carcinoma has a poor prognosis and treatment strategies, including hormone therapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, have little impact on the quality of life and global survival statistics, new interest has recently focused on the combination of immuno-chemotherapy using pyrimidine analogues, such as gemcitabine. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a phase II study 16 patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma were treated with 1,000 mg./m. gemcitabine intravenously on days 1, 8, 15 and 28 for 6 months, 3 MU (1 MU = 1 x 10(6) IU) interferon (IFN)-alpha intramuscularly 3 times a week and 4.5 million IU interleukin (IL)-2 subcutaneously daily for 5 days a week for 2 consecutive weeks every month for 6 months. Responding and nonprogressing cases were maintained on immunotherapy consisting of IFN-alpha and IL-2 for further 6 months. RESULTS In 15 evaluable patients overall response rate (1 complete response plus 3 partial response) was 28% while stable disease was achieved in 7 (47%). Median survival duration was 20 months (range, 9 to 26+) and median time to tumor progression was 14 months (6 to 26+). The complete response lasted 24+ months and partial response lasted 16 months. The regimen was well tolerated with only 1 case of neutropenia (WHO grade 3), while anorexia, fatigue and flu-like symptoms were the most common toxicity problems but were never greater than grade 2. CONCLUSIONS Despite the small sample size, this study demonstrates that gemcitabine combined with standard doses of IFN-alpha and low doses of IL-2 is effective treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. This biotherapy was well tolerated and resulted in an optimum objective response and relatively long-term survival.
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Neri B, Doni L, Gemelli MT, Fulignati C, Turrini M, Di Cello V, Dominici A, Maleci M, Mottola A, Ponchietti R, Raugei A, Valsuani G, Cini G. Phase II trial of weekly intravenous gemcitabine administration with interferon and interleukin-2 immunotherapy for metastatic renal cell cancer. J Urol 2002; 168:956-8. [PMID: 12187198 DOI: 10.1097/01.ju.0000024680.77882.8b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Since metastatic renal cell carcinoma has a poor prognosis and treatment strategies, including hormone therapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, have little impact on the quality of life and global survival statistics, new interest has recently focused on the combination of immuno-chemotherapy using pyrimidine analogues, such as gemcitabine. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a phase II study 16 patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma were treated with 1,000 mg./m. gemcitabine intravenously on days 1, 8, 15 and 28 for 6 months, 3 MU (1 MU = 1 x 10(6) IU) interferon (IFN)-alpha intramuscularly 3 times a week and 4.5 million IU interleukin (IL)-2 subcutaneously daily for 5 days a week for 2 consecutive weeks every month for 6 months. Responding and nonprogressing cases were maintained on immunotherapy consisting of IFN-alpha and IL-2 for further 6 months. RESULTS In 15 evaluable patients overall response rate (1 complete response plus 3 partial response) was 28% while stable disease was achieved in 7 (47%). Median survival duration was 20 months (range, 9 to 26+) and median time to tumor progression was 14 months (6 to 26+). The complete response lasted 24+ months and partial response lasted 16 months. The regimen was well tolerated with only 1 case of neutropenia (WHO grade 3), while anorexia, fatigue and flu-like symptoms were the most common toxicity problems but were never greater than grade 2. CONCLUSIONS Despite the small sample size, this study demonstrates that gemcitabine combined with standard doses of IFN-alpha and low doses of IL-2 is effective treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. This biotherapy was well tolerated and resulted in an optimum objective response and relatively long-term survival.
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Neri B, Doni L, Fulignati C, Gemelli MT, Turrini M, Di Cello V, Dominici A, Mottola A, Raugei A, Ponchietti R, Cini G. Gemcitabine plus Epi-doxorubicin as first-line chemotherapy for bladder cancer in advanced or metastatic stage: a phase II. Anticancer Res 2002; 22:2981-4. [PMID: 12530029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Combination chemotherapy with newer, more active drugs in patients with advanced and/or metastatic bladder cancer might show improved response rate and survival. Gemcitabine (GEM) and Epidoxorubicin (EPI) have demonstrated activity in this disease. In addition, experimental studies in vitro have shown that the two agents have additive-synergistic effects when used in combination. Our prior phase I dose-finding study in previously untreated patients with advanced or metastatic bladder cancer defined recommended doses for further trials of GEM 1000 mg/m2 and EPI 25 mg/m2 on days 1, 8 and 15 every 28 days. A phase II trial at this dose level was initiated in previously untreated patients to assess efficacy and toxicity. Eligible patients had measurable disease; Karnofsky performance status (PS) of > 40; no prior chemotherapy; and adequate bone marrow reserve, cardiac, hepatic and renal function. Thirty- one patients (22 males, 9 females) with median age of 64 (range 44-75) and median PS of 80 were accrued, and all were eligible. Twelve patients had T4N1-2 M0, 8 had lymph node only metastases, while 11 had visceral metastases (liver, bone, lung). A total of 181 cycles was administered (range 3-7 per patient). Major toxicities (WHO grade > or = 3) were: neutropenia in 5 patients, thrombocytopenia in 2 patients, and anemia in 2 patients. Three patients had febrile neutropenic episodes and only 3 patients required dose reduction. Grade 1-2 non-hematological toxicities included nausea/vomiting, stomatitis and alopecia. No cardiac toxicity was observed. Of the 30 response evaluable patients, 17 (57%) demonstrated a major response (3 complete and 14 partial) (95% CI: 39%-75%), 7 had stable disease (23%) and 6 progressed (20%). These preliminary results confirm the phase I observation that the combination of GEM--EPI is highly active in the treatment of advanced and metastatic bladder cancer with a favourable toxicity profile.
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Neri B, Cini G, Doni L, Fulignati C, Turrini M, Pantalone D, Mini E, De Luca Cardillo C, Fioretto LM, Ribecco AS, Moretti R, Scatizzi M, Zocchi G, Quattrone A. Weekly gemcitabine plus Epirubicin as effective chemotherapy for advanced pancreatic cancer: a multicenter phase II study. Br J Cancer 2002; 87:497-501. [PMID: 12189543 PMCID: PMC2376146 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6600482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2001] [Revised: 05/30/2002] [Accepted: 06/06/2002] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The current role of chemotherapy in pancreatic carcinoma is limited, and progress in the treatment of this disease represents a significant challenge to medical oncology. The most promising drug under study is gemcitabine, a relatively new antimetabolite that represents an attractive candidate for combination chemotherapy because of its excellent side-effect profile and the absence of overlapping toxicities with other chemotherapeutic agents. Combined administration of gemcitabine and anthracyclines could result in the induction of DNA breaks that are not easily repaired by the cell's machinery, thus enhancing the apoptotic signals triggered by these lesions. Forty-four patients with locally advanced and/or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma were enrolled in this multicenter study. Patients received Epirubicin 20 mg m(-2) for 3 weeks followed by 1 week of rest (1 cycle) and gemcitabine 1000 mg m(-2) after Epirubicin on the same day. All were assessable for toxicity and response, 11 patients responded to treatment with one complete response and 10 partial responses, for an overall response rate of 25%. Median survival was 10.9 months (range, 2-26 months). Therapy was well tolerated, with a low incidence of haematologic grade >2 toxicity. A total of 12 of 27 (44.4%) eligible patients attained a clinical benefit response. Our findings suggest that the gemcitabine-epirubicin schedule is active and well tolerated in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.
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Neri B, Cini G, Andreoli F, Boffi B, Francesconi D, Mazzanti R, Medi F, Mercatelli A, Romano S, Siliani L, Tarquini R, Moretti R. Randomized trial of adjuvant chemotherapy versus control after curative resection for gastric cancer: 5-year follow-up. Br J Cancer 2001; 84:878-80. [PMID: 11286464 PMCID: PMC2363834 DOI: 10.1054/bjoc.2000.1472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Adjuvant chemotherapy of gastric cancer after curative resection is still subject to discussion. In this study 137 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma, all with positive nodes, were randomized after curative resection so that 69 received epidoxorubicin (EPI), leucovorin (LV) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on days 1-3 every 3 weeks for 7 months, whereas the remaining 68 did not. After a follow-up period of 5 years, 21 of the 69 treated patients (30%) and nine controls (13%) were still alive; median survival time was 18 months for the controls and 31 months for the patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy (P< 0.01).
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Galvan AQ, Galetta F, Natali A, Muscelli E, Sironi AM, Cini G, Camastra S, Ferrannini E. Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia: No independent relation to left ventricular mass in humans. Circulation 2000; 102:2233-8. [PMID: 11056098 DOI: 10.1161/01.cir.102.18.2233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance may contribute to the development of cardiac hypertrophy. In humans, however, the evidence is inconclusive. METHODS AND RESULTS We studied 50 nondiabetic subjects covering a wide range of age (20 to 65 years), body mass index (BMI, 19 to 40 kg x m(-2)), and mean blood pressure (72 to 132 mm Hg). Plasma insulin concentrations and secretory rates were measured at baseline and during an oral glucose tolerance test; insulin sensitivity was measured by the insulin clamp technique. Left ventricular mass (LVM) (by 2D M-mode echocardiography) was distributed normally and was higher in obese (BMI >/=27 kg x m(-2), n=16) or hypertensive patients (blood pressure >140/90 mm Hg, n=21) (50+/-8 and 55+/-10 g x m(-2.7), respectively) than in 13 nonobese, normotensive subjects (40+/-8 g x m(-2.7), P:=0.0004). In a multivariate model adjusting for sex, age, BMI, and blood pressure, neither insulin concentrations (fasting or postglucose) nor insulin sensitivity or secretory rates were significant correlates of LVM. Systolic blood pressure (P:=0.003) and BMI (P:=0.01) were the only independent correlates of LVM. From the regression, the impact of hypertension (as a systolic pressure of 180 versus 140 mm Hg=+20%) was twice as large as that of obesity (as a BMI of 35 versus 25 kg x m(-2)=+11%), the two factors being additive. CONCLUSIONS When adequate account is taken of body mass and blood pressure, insulin, as concentration, secretion, or action, is not an independent determinant of LVM in nondiabetic subjects.
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Cini G, Coronnello M, Mini E, Neri B. Melatonin's growth-inhibitory effect on hepatoma AH 130 in the rat. Cancer Lett 1998; 125:51-9. [PMID: 9566696 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3835(97)00480-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We tested the effects of daily melatonin treatment on the growth of the ascites hepatoma in rats, determining survival time, cell number and cell cycle phases at various stages of tumor development. Melatonin inhibited cellular proliferation, doubled mean life-time and increased survival. Thymidine incorporation in hepatoma cells from treated rats decreased significantly without changes in the apoptotic index. Flow cytometric analysis showed that melatonin slowed cell cycle progression by increasing the number of cells in phase G0G1. Thus, similar to in vitro models, melatonin's oncostatic action in vivo appears to be directed to specific cell cycle mechanisms, which remain to be elucidated.
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Neri B, de Leonardis V, Gemelli MT, di Loro F, Mottola A, Ponchietti R, Raugei A, Cini G. Melatonin as biological response modifier in cancer patients. Anticancer Res 1998; 18:1329-32. [PMID: 9615811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The neuroendocrine system modulates the immune response through neuropeptides and neurohormones, findings which point to the existence of a neuro-endocrine-immune system regulatory axis. At the same time, there is growing evidence that the pineal gland has anti-neoplastic properties, which include the action of its principal hormone, melatonin (MLT), on the immune system through the release of cytokines by activated T-cells and monocytes. The present study was carried out on 31 patients (19 males and 12 females, age range 46-73 years) with advanced solid tumors (7 gastric, 9 enteric, 8 renal, 5 bladder, 2 prostate) who either failed to respond to chemotherapy and radiotherapy or showed insignificant responses and were therefore shifted to MLT therapy (10 mg/die orally for 3 months). We obtained blood samples just before the start of MLT administration and after 30 days of therapy. Plasma was collected in EDTA tubes on ice, immediately centrifuged at 4 degrees C and stored frozen at -80 degrees C; samples were measured by immunoradiometric assays (Medgenix-Fleurus, Belgium) for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF), interleukin-1, 2 and 6 (IL-1, IL-2, IL-6) and interferon gamma (IFN). We used Student's paired t-test to compare each patient's cytokine circulating levels before and after MLT administration and found a significant differences (p < 0.05). After 3 months of therapy, none of our patients displayed adverse reactions to MLT or had to discontinue treatment. Nineteen patients (61%) showed disease progression. The other 12 (39%), however, achieved disease stabilization with no further growth of either the primary tumor or of secondaries; moreover, they experienced an improvement in their general well-being, in terms of Tchekmedyian's criteria, associated with a significative decrease of IL-6 circulating levels. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that MLT modulates immune function in cancer patients by activating the cytokine system which exerts growth-inhibitory properties over a wide range of tumor cell types. Furthermore, by stimulating the cytotoxic activity of macrophages and monocytes, MLT plays a critical role in host defence against the progression of neoplasia.
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La Civita L, Pitaro N, Rossi M, Giuggioli D, Gambini I, Cini G, Pasero G, Ferri C. Amlodipine in the Treatment of Raynaudʼs Phenomenon. Clin Drug Investig 1997. [DOI: 10.2165/00044011-199700131-00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Neri B, de Leonardis V, Romano S, Andreoli F, Pernice LM, Bruno L, Borrelli D, Valeri A, Fabbroni S, Intini C, Cini G. Adjuvant chemotherapy after gastric resection in node-positive cancer patients: a multicentre randomised study. Br J Cancer 1996; 73:549-52. [PMID: 8595173 PMCID: PMC2074461 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.1996.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
After curative resection for gastric adenocarcinoma, 103 patients, all with positive nodes, were randomised so that 48 received adjuvant chemotherapy of epidoxorubicin (EPI) 75 mg m-2 on day 1, leucovorin (LV) 200 mg m-2 on days 1-3 and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) 450 mg m-2 on days 1-3, every 21 days for 7 months, whereas the remaining 55 did not. During the first year of observation, 21 control patients (38%) and five treated patients had recurrences. After a follow-up period of 36 months, 12 of the treated patients (25%) and only seven controls (13%) were still alive. At that point, the median survival was 13.6 months for the 55 untreated patients and 20.4 months for the 48 treated patients, a significant difference. We found a survival advantage for patients treated with the EPI-LV-5-FU regimen and a consistent delay in the appearance of recurrent or metastatic cancer. Acute toxicity was mild and treatment was well accepted by all patients. There was no long-term toxicity or any cardiac toxicity. We conclude that this particular chemotherapy, administered shortly after gastric resection, improves survival rate in node-positive gastric cancer patients, even although final assessment of this particular adjuvant approach must await completion of the trial.
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Galetta F, Puccini E, Lunardi M, Stella SM, Rossi M, Cini G, Prattichizzo F. [Effects of rehabilitation on cardiovascular autonomic function in ischemic cardiopathy]. RECENTI PROGRESSI IN MEDICINA 1994; 85:566-9. [PMID: 7899678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
METHODS Twenty patients with uncomplicated myocardial infarction randomized in two groups (group 1 and 2) of ten patients were investigated. Only group 1 trained four months according to a protocol of rehabilitation, whereas patients of group 2 followed their usual activity (control group). The autonomic cardiovascular function was estimated by Ewing's tests, that evaluate the variations of heart rate and blood pressure during deep breathing. RESULTS Our data showed an increase of parasympathetic tone in group 1 (Valsalva ratio 1.55 +/- 0.28 vs 1.36 +/- 0.28, p < 0.01; variation in heart rate during deep breathing 17.3 +/- 4.6 vs 13.3 +/- 4.2). The sympathetic activity tests showed no significant difference after training. On the other hand, group 2 showed no significant difference in sympathetic and parasympathetic activity. CONCLUSIONS In patients with uncomplicated myocardial infarction physical training increases the parasympathetic activity; as shown in the literature, such an increase can have clinical and prognostic importance, since improves cardiac performance and reduces the risk of sudden death from arrhythmic events.
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Galetta F, Palombo C, Cini G, Lattanzi F, Distante A. [The ultrasonic characterization of myocardial hypertrophy: new prospects]. GIORNALE ITALIANO DI CARDIOLOGIA 1993; 23:1229-37. [PMID: 8174875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The extensive use of ultrasound imaging in cardiology has greatly contributed to expand both its diagnostic possibilities and its utility in the interpretation of physiopathologic mechanisms. Conventional echocardiography is the more specific technique for the diagnosis of myocardial hypertrophy which, in turn, is one of the most important cardiovascular risk factors. The improvement of ultrasound technology may expand the possibility of noninvasive characterization of left ventricular hypertrophy by adding to the already known information about left ventricular mass and function, and that relative to the degree of hypertrophy-related fibrosis. In the present paper the authors reviewed the knowledge about biological and hemodynamic factors which contribute to the development and regression of myocardial hypertrophy. The possible role of new ultrasonic technology in the tissue characterization of myocardial hypertrophy is also discussed.
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