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Giulimondi F, Digiacomo L, Pozzi D, Palchetti S, Vulpis E, Capriotti AL, Chiozzi RZ, Laganà A, Amenitsch H, Masuelli L, Peruzzi G, Mahmoudi M, Screpanti I, Zingoni A, Caracciolo G. Interplay of protein corona and immune cells controls blood residency of liposomes. Nat Commun 2019; 10:3686. [PMID: 31417080 PMCID: PMC6695391 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-11642-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In vivo liposomes, like other types of nanoparticles, acquire a totally new 'biological identity' due to the formation of a biomolecular coating known as the protein corona that depends on and modifies the liposomes' synthetic identity. The liposome-protein corona is a dynamic interface that regulates the interaction of liposomes with the physiological environment. Here we show that the biological identity of liposomes is clearly linked to their sequestration from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of healthy donors that ultimately leads to removal from the bloodstream. Pre-coating liposomes with an artificial corona made of human plasma proteins drastically reduces capture by circulating leukocytes in whole blood and may be an effective strategy to enable prolonged circulation in vivo. We conclude with a critical assessment of the key concepts of liposome technology that need to be reviewed for its definitive clinical translation.
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Pelullo M, Megiorni F, Cimino G, Pizzuti A, Quattrucci S, Screpanti I, Talora C, Cialfi S. P026 A pilot study on oxidative stress in cystic fibrosis: the involvement of miR125b and HO-1. J Cyst Fibros 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(19)30321-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Quaglio D, Zhdanovskaya N, Tobajas G, Cuartas V, Balducci S, Christodoulou MS, Fabrizi G, Gargantilla M, Priego EM, Carmona Pestaña Á, Passarella D, Screpanti I, Botta B, Palermo R, Mori M, Ghirga F, Pérez-Pérez MJ. Chalcones and Chalcone-mimetic Derivatives as Notch Inhibitors in a Model of T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. ACS Med Chem Lett 2019; 10:639-643. [PMID: 30996810 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.8b00608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Based on hit-likeness and chemical diversity, a number of chalcones and chalcone-mimetic compounds were selected as putative Notch inhibitors. The evaluation of the antiproliferative effect combined with the inhibition of Notch1 expression in KOPTK1 cell line identified compound 18, featuring a tetrahydronaphthalene-based scaffold, as a new promising Notch-blocking agent.
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Tottone L, Zhdanovskaya N, Carmona Pestaña Á, Zampieri M, Simeoni F, Lazzari S, Ruocco V, Pelullo M, Caiafa P, Felli MP, Checquolo S, Bellavia D, Talora C, Screpanti I, Palermo R. Histone Modifications Drive Aberrant Notch3 Expression/Activity and Growth in T-ALL. Front Oncol 2019; 9:198. [PMID: 31001470 PMCID: PMC6456714 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive blood cancer caused by the deregulation of key T-cell developmental pathways, including Notch signaling. Aberrant Notch signaling in T-ALL occurs by NOTCH1 gain-of-function mutations and by NOTCH3 overexpression. Although NOTCH3 is assumed as a Notch1 target, machinery driving its transcription in T-ALL is undefined in leukemia subsets lacking Notch1 activation. Here, we found that the binding of the intracellular Notch3 domain, as well as of the activated Notch1 fragment, to the NOTCH3 gene locus led to the recruitment of the H3K27 modifiers JMJD3 and p300, and it was required to preserve transcriptional permissive/active H3K27 marks and to sustain NOTCH3 gene expression levels. Consistently, pharmacological inhibition of JMJD3 by GSKJ4 treatment or of p300 by A-485 decreased the levels of expression of NOTCH3, NOTCH1 and of the Notch target genes DELTEX1 and c-Myc and abrogated cell viability in both Notch1- and Notch3-dependent T-cell contexts. Notably, re-introduction of exogenous Notch1, Notch3 as well as c-Myc partially rescued cells from anti-growth effects induced by either treatment. Overall our findings indicate JMJD3 and p300 as general Notch1 and Notch3 signaling co-activators in T-ALL and suggest further investigation on the potential therapeutic anti-leukemic efficacy of their enzymatic inhibition in Notch/c-Myc axis-related cancers and diseases.
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Arcella A, Palchetti S, Digiacomo L, Pozzi D, Capriotti AL, Frati L, Oliva MA, Tsaouli G, Rota R, Screpanti I, Mahmoudi M, Caracciolo G. Brain Targeting by Liposome-Biomolecular Corona Boosts Anticancer Efficacy of Temozolomide in Glioblastoma Cells. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:3166-3174. [PMID: 30015470 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) is the current first-line chemotherapy for treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). However, similar to other brain therapeutic compounds, access of TMZ to brain tumors is impaired by the blood-brain barrier (BBB) leading to poor response for GBM patients. To overcome this major hurdle, we have synthesized a set of TMZ-encapsulating nanomedicines made of four cationic liposome (CL) formulations with systematic changes in lipid composition and physical-chemical properties. The targeting nature of this nanomedicine is provided by the recruitment of proteins, with natural targeting capacity, in the biomolecular corona (BC) layer that forms around CLs after exposure to human plasma (HP). TMZ-loaded CL-BC complexes were thoroughly characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), electrophoretic light scattering (ELS), and nanoliquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (nano-LC MS/MS). BCs were found to be enriched of typical BC fingerprints (BCFs) (e.g., Apolipoproteins, Vitronectin, and vitamin K-dependent protein), which have a substantial capacity in binding to receptors that are overexpressed at the BBB (e.g., scavenger receptor class B, type I and low-density lipoprotein receptor). We found that the CL formulation exhibiting the highest levels of targeting BCFs had larger uptake in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) that are commonly used as an in vitro model of the BBB. This formulation could also deliver TMZ to the human glioblastoma U-87 MG cell line and thus substantially enhance their antitumor efficacy compared to corona free CLs. Thus, we propose that the BC-based nanomedicines may pave a more effective way for efficient treatment of GBM.
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Ferrandino F, Grazioli P, Bellavia D, Campese AF, Screpanti I, Felli MP. Notch and NF-κB: Coach and Players of Regulatory T-Cell Response in Cancer. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2165. [PMID: 30364244 PMCID: PMC6193072 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway plays multiple roles in driving T-cell fate decisions, proliferation, and aberrant growth. NF-κB is a cell-context key player interconnected with Notch signaling either in physiological or in pathological conditions. This review focuses on how the multilayered crosstalk between different Notches and NF-κB subunits may converge on Foxp3 gene regulation and orchestrate CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cell function, particularly in a tumor microenvironment. Notably, Treg cells may play a pivotal role in the inhibition of antitumor immune responses, possibly promoting tumor growth. A future challenge is represented by further dissection of both Notch and NF-κB pathways and consequences of their intersection in tumor-associated Treg biology. This may shed light on the molecular mechanisms regulating Treg cell expansion and migration to peripheral lymphoid organs thought to facilitate tumor development and still to be explored. In so doing, new opportunities for combined and/or more selective therapeutic approaches to improve anticancer immunity may be found.
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Di Ianni M, Baldoni S, Del Papa B, Aureli P, Dorillo E, De Falco F, Albi E, Varasano E, Di Tommaso A, Giancola R, Accorsi P, Rotta G, Rompietti C, Silva Barcelos EC, Campese AF, Di Bartolomeo P, Screpanti I, Rosati E, Falzetti F, Sportoletti P. NOTCH1 Is Aberrantly Activated in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Hematopoietic Stem Cells. Front Oncol 2018; 8:105. [PMID: 29732315 PMCID: PMC5919960 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)-initiating cells, we assessed NOTCH1 mutation/expression in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). In NOTCH1-mutated CLL, we detected subclonal mutations in 57% CD34+/CD38− HSCs. NOTCH1 mutation was present in 66% CD34+/CD38+ progenitor cells displaying an increased mutational burden compared to HSCs. Flow cytometric analysis revealed significantly higher NOTCH1 activation in CD34+/CD38− and CD34+/CD38+ cells from CLL patients, regardless NOTCH1 mutation compared to healthy donors. Activated NOTCH1 resulted in overexpression of the NOTCH1 target c-MYC. We conclude that activated NOTCH1 is an early event in CLL that may contribute to aberrant HSCs in this disease.
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Bellavia D, Palermo R, Felli MP, Screpanti I, Checquolo S. Notch signaling as a therapeutic target for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2018. [PMID: 29527929 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2018.1451840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric malignancy. Although the therapy of ALL has significantly improved, the heterogeneous genetic landscape of the disease often causes relapse, which is difficult to treat. Achieving a positive outcome for patients with relapsed or refractory ALL remains a challenging issue. The high prevalence of NOTCH-activating mutations in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and the central role of NOTCH signaling in regulating cell survival and growth of ALL provide a rationale for the development of Notch signaling-targeted strategies in this disease. Therapeutic alternatives with effective anti-leukemic potential and low toxicity are needed. Areas covered: This review provides an overview of the currently available drugs directly or indirectly targeting Notch signaling in ALL. Besides considering the known Notch targeting approaches, such as γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) and Notch inhibiting antibodies (mAbs), currently in clinical trials, we focus on the recent insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the Notch signaling regulation in ALL. Expert opinion: Novel drugs targeting specific steps of Notch signaling or intersecting pathways could improve the efficiency of the conventional hematological cancers therapies. Further studies are required to translate the new findings into future clinical applications.
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Coppa A, Nicolussi A, D'Inzeo S, Capalbo C, Belardinilli F, Colicchia V, Petroni M, Zani M, Ferraro S, Rinaldi C, Buffone A, Bartolazzi A, Screpanti I, Ottini L, Giannini G. Optimizing the identification of risk-relevant mutations by multigene panel testing in selected hereditary breast/ovarian cancer families. Cancer Med 2018; 7:46-55. [PMID: 29271107 PMCID: PMC5773970 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.1251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of multigene panel testing for hereditary breast/ovarian cancer screening has greatly improved efficiency, speed, and costs. However, its clinical utility is still debated, mostly due to the lack of conclusive evidences on the impact of newly discovered genetic variants on cancer risk and lack of evidence-based guidelines for the clinical management of their carriers. In this pilot study, we aimed to test whether a systematic and multiparametric characterization of newly discovered mutations could enhance the clinical utility of multigene panel sequencing. Out of a pool of 367 breast/ovarian cancer families Sanger-sequenced for BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, we selected a cohort of 20 BRCA1/2-negative families to be subjected to the BROCA-Cancer Risk Panel massive parallel sequencing. As a strategy for the systematic characterization of newly discovered genetic variants, we collected blood and cancer tissue samples and established lymphoblastoid cell lines from all available individuals in these families, to perform segregation analysis, loss-of-heterozygosity and further molecular studies. We identified loss-of-function mutations in 6 out 20 high-risk families, 5 of which occurred on BRCA1, CHEK2 and ATM and are esteemed to be risk-relevant. In contrast, a novel RAD50 truncating mutation is most likely unrelated to breast cancer. Our data suggest that integrating multigene panel testing with a pre-organized, multiparametric characterization of newly discovered genetic variants improves the identification of risk-relevant alleles impacting on the clinical management of their carriers.
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Bellavia D, Checquolo S, Palermo R, Screpanti I. The Notch3 Receptor and Its Intracellular Signaling-Dependent Oncogenic Mechanisms. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1066:205-222. [PMID: 30030828 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-89512-3_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
During evolution, gene duplication of the Notch receptor suggests a progressive functional diversification. The Notch3 receptor displays a number of structural differences with respect to Notch1 and Notch2, most of which have been reported in the transmembrane and in the intracellular regions, mainly localized in the negative regulatory region (NRR) and trans-activation domain (TAD). Targeted deletion of Notch3 does not result in embryonic lethality, which is in line with its highly restricted tissue expression pattern. Importantly, deregulated Notch3 expression and/or activation, often results in disrupted cell differentiation and/or pathological development, most notably in oncogenesis in different cell contexts. Mechanistically this is due to Notch3-related genetic alterations or epigenetic or posttranslational control mechanisms. In this chapter we discuss the possible relationships between the structural differences and the pathological role of Notch3 in the control of mouse and human cancers. In future, targeting the unique features of Notch3-oncogenic mechanisms could be exploited to develop anticancer therapeutics.
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Quaranta R, Pelullo M, Zema S, Nardozza F, Checquolo S, Lauer DM, Bufalieri F, Palermo R, Felli MP, Vacca A, Talora C, Di Marcotullio L, Screpanti I, Bellavia D. Maml1 acts cooperatively with Gli proteins to regulate sonic hedgehog signaling pathway. Cell Death Dis 2017; 8:e2942. [PMID: 28726779 PMCID: PMC5550871 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2017.326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling is essential for proliferation of cerebellar granule cell progenitors (GCPs) and its misregulation is linked to various disorders, including cerebellar cancer medulloblastoma. The effects of Shh pathway are mediated by the Gli family of transcription factors, which controls the expression of a number of target genes, including Gli1. Here, we identify Mastermind-like 1 (Maml1) as a novel regulator of the Shh signaling since it interacts with Gli proteins, working as a potent transcriptional coactivator. Notably, Maml1 silencing results in a significant reduction of Gli target genes expression, with a negative impact on cell growth of NIH3T3 and Patched1−/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), bearing a constitutively active Shh signaling. Remarkably, Shh pathway activity results severely compromised both in MEFs and GCPs deriving from Maml1−/− mice with an impairment of GCPs proliferation and cerebellum development. Therefore Maml1−/− phenotype mimics aspects of Shh pathway deficiency, suggesting an intrinsic requirement for Maml1 in cerebellum development. The present study shows a new role for Maml1 as a component of Shh signaling, which plays a crucial role in both development and tumorigenesis.
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Miele E, Po A, Begalli F, Antonucci L, Mastronuzzi A, Marras CE, Carai A, Cucchi D, Abballe L, Besharat ZM, Catanzaro G, Infante P, Di Marcotullio L, Canettieri G, De Smaele E, Screpanti I, Locatelli F, Ferretti E. β-arrestin1-mediated acetylation of Gli1 regulates Hedgehog/Gli signaling and modulates self-renewal of SHH medulloblastoma cancer stem cells. BMC Cancer 2017; 17:488. [PMID: 28716052 PMCID: PMC5512842 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-017-3477-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Aberrant Sonic Hedgehog/Gli (Hh/Gli) signaling pathway is a critical regulator of Sonic hedgehog medulloblastoma (SHH-MB). Cancer stem cells (CSCs), thought to be largely responsible for tumor initiation, maintenance, dissemination and relapse, have been identified in SHH-MB. Since we previously demonstrated that Hh/Gli signaling controls CSCs features in SHH-MB and that in these tumors miR-326 is down regulated, here we investigated whether there is a functional link between Hh/Gli signaling and miR-326. Methods We evaluated β-arrestin1 (Arrb1) and its intragenic miR-326 levels in CSCs derived from SHH-MB. Subsequently, we modulated the expression of Arrb1 and miR-326 in CSCs in order to gain insight into their biological role. We also analyzed the mechanism by which Arrb1 and miR-326 control Hh/Gli signaling and self-renewal, using luciferase and protein immunoprecipitation assays. Results Low levels of Arrb1 and miR-326 represent a feature of CSCs derived from SHH-MB. We observed that re-expression of Arrb1 and miR-326 inhibits Hh/Gli signaling pathway at multiple levels, which cause impaired proliferation and self-renewal, accompanied by down regulation of Nanog levels. In detail, miR-326 negatively regulates two components of the Hh/Gli pathway the receptor Smoothened (Smo) and the transcription factor Gli2, whereas Arrb1 suppresses the transcriptional activity of Gli1, by potentiating its p300-mediated acetylation. Conclusions Our results identify a new molecular mechanism involving miR-326 and Arrb1 as regulators of SHH-MB CSCs. Specifically, low levels of Arrb1 and miR-326 trigger and maintain Hh/Gli signaling and self-renewal.
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Mori M, Tottone L, Quaglio D, Zhdanovskaya N, Ingallina C, Fusto M, Ghirga F, Peruzzi G, Crestoni ME, Simeoni F, Giulimondi F, Talora C, Botta B, Screpanti I, Palermo R. Identification of a novel chalcone derivative that inhibits Notch signaling in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Sci Rep 2017; 7:2213. [PMID: 28526832 PMCID: PMC5438367 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02316-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling is considered a rational target in the therapy of several cancers, particularly those harbouring Notch gain of function mutations, including T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Although currently available Notch-blocking agents are showing anti-tumor activity in preclinical studies, they are not effective in all the patients and often cause severe side-effects, limiting their widespread therapeutic use. Here, by functional and biological analysis of the most representative molecules of an in house library of natural products, we have designed and synthetized the chalcone-derivative 8 possessing Notch inhibitory activity at low micro molar concentration in T-ALL cell lines. Structure-activity relationships were afforded for the chalcone scaffold. Short term treatments with compound 8 resulted in a dose-dependent decrease of Notch signaling activity, halted cell cycle progression and induced apoptosis, thus affecting leukemia cell growth. Taken together, our data indicate that 8 is a novel Notch inhibitor, candidate for further investigation and development as an additional therapeutic option against Notch-dependent cancers.
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Coni S, Mancuso AB, Di Magno L, Sdruscia G, Manni S, Serrao SM, Rotili D, Spiombi E, Bufalieri F, Petroni M, Kusio-Kobialka M, De Smaele E, Ferretti E, Capalbo C, Mai A, Niewiadomski P, Screpanti I, Di Marcotullio L, Canettieri G. Corrigendum: Selective targeting of HDAC1/2 elicits anticancer effects through Gli1 acetylation in preclinical models of SHH Medulloblastoma. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46645. [PMID: 28429760 PMCID: PMC5399352 DOI: 10.1038/srep46645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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Colicchia V, Petroni M, Guarguaglini G, Sardina F, Sahún-Roncero M, Carbonari M, Ricci B, Heil C, Capalbo C, Belardinilli F, Coppa A, Peruzzi G, Screpanti I, Lavia P, Gulino A, Giannini G. PARP inhibitors enhance replication stress and cause mitotic catastrophe in MYCN-dependent neuroblastoma. Oncogene 2017; 36:4682-4691. [PMID: 28394338 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
High-risk and MYCN-amplified neuroblastomas are among the most aggressive pediatric tumors. Despite intense multimodality therapies, about 50% of these patients succumb to their disease, making the search for effective therapies an absolute priority. Due to the important functions of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases, PARP inhibitors have entered the clinical settings for cancer treatment and are being exploited in a variety of preclinical studies and clinical trials. PARP inhibitors based combination schemes have also been tested in neuroblastoma preclinical models with encouraging results. However, the expression of PARP enzymes in human neuroblastoma and the biological consequences of their inhibition remained largely unexplored. Here, we show that high PARP1 and PARP2 expression is significantly associated with high-risk neuroblastoma cases and poor survival, highlighting its previously unrecognized prognostic value for human neuroblastoma. In vitro, PARP1 and 2 are abundant in MYCN amplified and MYCN-overexpressing cells. In this context, PARP inhibitors with high 'PARP trapping' potency, such as olaparib or talazoparib, yield DNA damage and cell death preceded by intense signs of replication stress. Notwithstanding the activation of a CHK1-CDC25A replication stress response, PARP-inhibited MYCN amplified and overexpressing cells fail to sustain a prolonged checkpoint and progress through mitosis in the presence of damaged DNA, eventually undergoing mitotic catastrophe. CHK1-targeted inhibition of the replication stress checkpoint exacerbated this phenotype. These data highlight a novel route for cell death induction by PARP inhibitors and support their introduction, together with CHK1 inhibitors, in therapeutic approaches for neuroblastomas with high MYC(N) activity.
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Cialfi S, Le Pera L, De Blasio C, Mariano G, Palermo R, Zonfrilli A, Uccelletti D, Palleschi C, Biolcati G, Barbieri L, Screpanti I, Talora C. Corrigendum: The loss of ATP2C1 impairs the DNA damage response and induces altered skin homeostasis: Consequences for epidermal biology in Hailey-Hailey disease. Sci Rep 2017; 7:44514. [PMID: 28300154 PMCID: PMC5353573 DOI: 10.1038/srep44514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Grazioli P, Felli MP, Screpanti I, Campese AF. The mazy case of Notch and immunoregulatory cells. J Leukoc Biol 2017; 102:361-368. [DOI: 10.1189/jlb.1vmr1216-505r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Palchetti S, Pozzi D, Marchini C, Amici A, Andreani C, Bartolacci C, Digiacomo L, Gambini V, Cardarelli F, Di Rienzo C, Peruzzi G, Amenitsch H, Palermo R, Screpanti I, Caracciolo G. Manipulation of lipoplex concentration at the cell surface boosts transfection efficiency in hard-to-transfect cells. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2017; 13:681-691. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2016.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Revised: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Benvenuto M, Masuelli L, De Smaele E, Fantini M, Mattera R, Cucchi D, Bonanno E, Di Stefano E, Frajese GV, Orlandi A, Screpanti I, Gulino A, Modesti A, Bei R. In vitro and in vivo inhibition of breast cancer cell growth by targeting the Hedgehog/GLI pathway with SMO (GDC-0449) or GLI (GANT-61) inhibitors. Oncotarget 2017; 7:9250-70. [PMID: 26843616 PMCID: PMC4891038 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant Hedgehog (Hh)/glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) signaling has been implicated in cancer progression. Here, we analyzed GLI1, Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) and NF-κB expression in 51 breast cancer (ductal carcinoma) tissues using immunohistochemistry. We found a positive correlation between nuclear GLI1 expression and tumor grade in ductal carcinoma cases. Cytoplasmic Shh staining significantly correlated with a lower tumor grade. Next, the in vitro effects of two Hh signaling pathway inhibitors on breast cancer cell lines were evaluated using the Smoothened (SMO) antagonist GDC-0449 and the direct GLI1 inhibitor GANT-61. GDC-0449 and GANT-61 exhibited the following effects: a) inhibited breast cancer cell survival; b) induced apoptosis; c) inhibited Hh pathway activity by decreasing the mRNA expression levels of GLI1 and Ptch and inhibiting the nuclear translocation of GLI1; d) increased/decreased EGFR and ErbB2 protein expression, reduced p21-Ras and ERK1/ERK2 MAPK activities and inhibited AKT activation; and e) decreased the nuclear translocation of NF-κB. However, GANT-61 exerted these effects more effectively than GDC-0449. The in vivo antitumor activities of GDC-0449 and GANT-61 were analyzed in BALB/c mice that were subcutaneously inoculated with mouse breast cancer (TUBO) cells. GDC-0449 and GANT-61 suppressed tumor growth of TUBO cells in BALB/c mice to different extents. These findings suggest that targeting the Hh pathway using antagonists that act downstream of SMO is a more efficient strategy than using antagonists that act upstream of SMO for interrupting Hh signaling in breast cancer.
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Verginelli F, Adesso L, Limon I, Alisi A, Gueguen M, Panera N, Giorda E, Raimondi L, Ciarapica R, Campese AF, Screpanti I, Stifani S, Kitajewski J, Miele L, Rota R, Locatelli F. Activation of an endothelial Notch1-Jagged1 circuit induces VCAM1 expression, an effect amplified by interleukin-1β. Oncotarget 2016; 6:43216-29. [PMID: 26646450 PMCID: PMC4791227 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The Notch1 and Notch4 signaling pathways regulate endothelial cell homeostasis. Inflammatory cytokines induce the expression of endothelial adhesion molecules, including VCAM1, partly by downregulating Notch4 signaling. We investigated the role of endothelial Notch1 in this IL-1β-mediated process. Brief treatment with IL-1β upregulated endothelial VCAM1 and Notch ligand Jagged1. IL-1β decreased Notch1 mRNA levels, but levels of the active Notch1ICD protein remained constant. IL-1β-mediated VCAM1 induction was downregulated in endothelial cells subjected to pretreatment with a pharmacological inhibitor of the γ-secretase, which activates Notch receptors, producing NotchICD. It was also downregulated in cells in which Notch1 and/or Jagged1 were silenced.Conversely, the forced expression of Notch1ICD in naïve endothelial cells upregulated VCAM1 per se and amplified IL-1β-mediated VCAM1 induction. Jagged1 levels increased and Notch4 signaling was downregulated in parallel. Finally, Notch1ICD and Jagged1 expression was upregulated in the endothelium of the liver in a model of chronic liver inflammation.In conclusion, we describe here a cell-autonomous, pro-inflammatory endothelial Notch1-Jagged1 circuit (i) triggering the expression of VCAM1 even in the absence of inflammatory cytokines and (ii) enhancing the effects of IL-1β. Thus, IL-1β regulates Notch1 and Notch4 activity in opposite directions, consistent with a selective targeting of Notch1 in inflamed endothelium.
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Infante P, Alfonsi R, Ingallina C, Quaglio D, Ghirga F, D'Acquarica I, Bernardi F, Di Magno L, Canettieri G, Screpanti I, Gulino A, Botta B, Mori M, Di Marcotullio L. Inhibition of Hedgehog-dependent tumors and cancer stem cells by a newly identified naturally occurring chemotype. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2376. [PMID: 27899820 PMCID: PMC5059851 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) inhibitors have emerged as valid tools in the treatment of a wide range of cancers. Indeed, aberrant activation of the Hh pathway occurring either by ligand-dependent or -independent mechanisms is a key driver in tumorigenesis. The smoothened (Smo) receptor is one of the main upstream transducers of the Hh signaling and is a validated target for the development of anticancer compounds, as underlined by the FDA-approved Smo antagonist Vismodegib (GDC-0449/Erivedge) for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma. However, Smo mutations that confer constitutive activity and drug resistance have emerged during treatment with Vismodegib. For this reason, the development of new effective Hh inhibitors represents a major challenge for cancer therapy. Natural products have always represented a unique source of lead structures in drug discovery, and in recent years have been used to modulate the Hh pathway at multiple levels. Here, starting from an in house library of natural compounds and their derivatives, we discovered novel chemotypes of Hh inhibitors by mean of virtual screening against the crystallographic structure of Smo. Hh functional based assay identified the chalcone derivative 12 as the most effective Hh inhibitor within the test set. The chalcone 12 binds the Smo receptor and promotes the displacement of Bodipy-Cyclopamine in both Smo WT and drug-resistant Smo mutant. Our molecule stands as a promising Smo antagonist able to specifically impair the growth of Hh-dependent tumor cells in vitro and in vivo and medulloblastoma stem-like cells and potentially overcome the associated drug resistance.
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Cialfi S, Le Pera L, De Blasio C, Mariano G, Palermo R, Zonfrilli A, Uccelletti D, Palleschi C, Biolcati G, Barbieri L, Screpanti I, Talora C. The loss of ATP2C1 impairs the DNA damage response and induces altered skin homeostasis: Consequences for epidermal biology in Hailey-Hailey disease. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31567. [PMID: 27528123 PMCID: PMC4985699 DOI: 10.1038/srep31567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutation of the Golgi Ca(2+)-ATPase ATP2C1 is associated with deregulated calcium homeostasis and altered skin function. ATP2C1 mutations have been identified as having a causative role in Hailey-Hailey disease, an autosomal-dominant skin disorder. Here, we identified ATP2C1 as a crucial regulator of epidermal homeostasis through the regulation of oxidative stress. Upon ATP2C1 inactivation, oxidative stress and Notch1 activation were increased in cultured human keratinocytes. Using RNA-seq experiments, we found that the DNA damage response (DDR) was consistently down-regulated in keratinocytes derived from the lesions of patients with Hailey-Hailey disease. Although oxidative stress activates the DDR, ATP2C1 inactivation down-regulates DDR gene expression. We showed that the DDR response was a major target of oxidative stress-induced Notch1 activation. Here, we show that this activation is functionally important because early Notch1 activation in keratinocytes induces keratinocyte differentiation and represses the DDR. These results indicate that an ATP2C1/NOTCH1 axis might be critical for keratinocyte function and cutaneous homeostasis, suggesting a plausible model for the pathological features of Hailey-Hailey disease.
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Po A, Silvano M, Miele E, Eramo A, Todaro M, Capalbo C, Salvati V, Sette G, Cucchi D, Besharat ZM, Canettieri G, Di Marcotullio L, Screpanti I, Stassi G, De Maria R, Zeuner A, De Smaele E, Ferretti E. Abstract 2484: Non-canonical Hedgehog/Gli1 signaling drives lung adenocarcinoma stem cells survival and its targeting inhibits CSC-derived tumors. Cancer Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2016-2484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Lung Adenocarcinoma (AC) is the most frequent lung cancer histological subtype and is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Hedgehog/Gli (Hh/Gli) signaling pathway regulates lung development and its aberrant activation contributes to tumor pathogenesis and play a role in cancer stem cells (CSC) control.
We investigated oncogenic Hh/Gli signaling in AC-CSC.
Methods: human AC-CSC were derived from primary tumors. For in vitro studies AC-CSC were maintained in serum-free medium supplemented with EGF/bFGF. For in vivo experiments, immunocompromised mice were injected with AC-CSC. Gli1 inhibitor GANT61 was used both in vitro and in vivo (IP 40 mg/kg twice/we) treatments.
Results: Using mRNA datasets and tissue microarray of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NCSLC) samples we found that in AC Gli1 is expressed independently of its canonical activator Smoothened (Smo) expression level. Similarly, CSC were Gli1 positive regardless of Smo expression levels. Indeed, we found that SMO regulatory region is highly methylated in AC cells where Smo mRNA and protein are low.
Looking for Smo-independent regulation of GLI activity we found that NRP2/Erk and IGF1R/Erk axes regulate Gli1 in AC-CSC. Suppression of Gli1 with GANT61 in CSC resulted in impairment of cell growth and stemness features. We performed in-vivo experiments: CSC-derived xenograft from GANT61 treated mice showed impaired tumor growth, reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis. We next highlighted a tumor-stroma crosstalk. A positive autocrine oncogenic feedback loop sustains Gli1 in AC-CSC since we found that the CSC expressed NRP2 and its ligands VEGF-A and VEGF-C. A paracrine positive loop also sustain Hh/Gli signaling in AC where Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) harbor Hh/Gli1 canonical pathway that regulates the expression of VEGF-A, VEGF-C and IGF2 ligands of NRP2 and IGF1R respectively.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest a non-canonical activation of Hh/Gli pathway in AC. In this context, GLI1 transcription factor is effectors of NRP2/Erk and/or IGF1R/Erk signaling inputs.
Our results have implications for the understanding of AC development and sustain the inclusion of target therapy acting downstream of Smo level in the design of AC treatment.
Citation Format: Agnese Po, Marianna Silvano, Evelina Miele, Adriana Eramo, Matilde Todaro, Carlo Capalbo, Valentina Salvati, Giovanni Sette, Danilo Cucchi, Zein M. Besharat, Gianluca Canettieri, Lucia Di Marcotullio, Isabella Screpanti, Giorgio Stassi, Ruggero De Maria, Ann Zeuner, Enrico De Smaele, Elisabetta Ferretti. Non-canonical Hedgehog/Gli1 signaling drives lung adenocarcinoma stem cells survival and its targeting inhibits CSC-derived tumors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 2484.
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Diluvio G, Del Gaudio F, Franciosa G, Giuli M, Felli M, Bellavia D, Screpanti I, Checquolo S. Notch3–EGFR crosstalk in triple negative breast cancers (TNBC): new therapeutic possibilities. Eur J Cancer 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(16)61302-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Patra A, Klein-Hessling S, Knobeloch K, Andrau J, Ellenrieder V, Screpanti I, Serfling E. Altered NFATc1 activity blocks T cell development and facilitates the pathogenesis of T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Eur J Cancer 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(16)61624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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