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El Hussein S, Loghavi S. The Impact of Clonal Hierarchy and Heterogeneity on Phenotypic Manifestations of Myelodysplastic Neoplasms. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5690. [PMID: 36428782 PMCID: PMC9688198 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Until recently, conventional prognostication of myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) was performed using the revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R), with additional adverse prognoses conferred by select mutations. Nonetheless, the clonal diversity and dynamics of coexisting mutations have been shown to alter the prognosis and treatment response in patients with MDS. Often in the process of clonal evolution, various initial hits are preferentially followed by a specific spectrum of secondary alterations, shaping the phenotypic and biologic features of MDS. Our ability to recapitulate the clonal ontology of MDS is a necessary step toward personalized therapy and the conceptualization of a better classification system, which ideally would take into consideration all genomic aberrations and their inferred clonal architecture in individual cases. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the molecular landscape of MDS and the role of mutational combinations, clonal burden, and clonal hierarchy in defining the clinical fate of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siba El Hussein
- Department of Pathology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14607, USA
| | - Sanam Loghavi
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a family of myeloid cancers with diverse genotypes and phenotypes characterized by ineffective haematopoiesis and risk of transformation to acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Some epidemiological data indicate that MDS incidence is increasing in resource-rich regions but this is controversial. Most MDS cases are caused by randomly acquired somatic mutations. In some patients, the phenotype and/or genotype of MDS overlaps with that of bone marrow failure disorders such as aplastic anaemia, paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) and AML. Prognostic systems, such as the revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R), provide reasonably accurate predictions of survival at the population level. Therapeutic goals in individuals with lower-risk MDS include improving quality of life and minimizing erythrocyte and platelet transfusions. Therapeutic goals in people with higher-risk MDS include decreasing the risk of AML transformation and prolonging survival. Haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) can cure MDS, yet fewer than 10% of affected individuals receive this treatment. However, how, when and in which patients with HCT for MDS should be performed remains controversial, with some studies suggesting HCT is preferred in some individuals with higher-risk MDS. Advances in the understanding of MDS biology offer the prospect of new therapeutic approaches.
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Nagel R, Pataskar A, Champagne J, Agami R. Boosting Antitumor Immunity with an Expanded Neoepitope Landscape. Cancer Res 2022; 82:3637-3649. [PMID: 35904353 PMCID: PMC9574376 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-1525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Immune-checkpoint blockade therapy has been successfully applied to many cancers, particularly tumors that harbor a high mutational burden and consequently express a high abundance of neoantigens. However, novel approaches are needed to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy for treating tumors that lack a high load of classic genetically derived neoantigens. Recent discoveries of broad classes of nongenetically encoded and inducible neoepitopes open up new avenues for therapeutic development to enhance sensitivity to immunotherapies. In this review, we discuss recent work on neoantigen discovery, with an emphasis on novel classes of noncanonical neoepitopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remco Nagel
- Division of Oncogenomics, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Abhijeet Pataskar
- Division of Oncogenomics, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Julien Champagne
- Division of Oncogenomics, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Reuven Agami
- Division of Oncogenomics, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Erasmus MC, Rotterdam University, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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54
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Zhu H, Zhou W, Wan Y, Lu J, Ge K, Jia C. CD44V3, an Alternatively Spliced Form of CD44, Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012061. [PMID: 36292918 PMCID: PMC9603666 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignant tumors. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for its progression are little known. This study aimed to understand the regulatory role of CD44V3 in pancreatic cancer. A Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed to reveal the correlation between CD44/CD44V3 expression and the prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients. CD44V3 and U2AF1 were knocked down using shRNAs. The proliferation, migration, invasion, and stemness of two pancreatic cell lines, BxPC-3 and AsPC-1, were examined. The expression of CD44V3, cancer-associated markers, and the activation of AKT signaling were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Both CD44 and CD44V3 expression levels were associated with a poor prognosis in pancreatic cancer patients. Interestingly, the expression of CD44V3, instead of CD44, was greatly increased in tumor tissues. CD44V3 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion, and stemness of cancer cells. CD44V3 splicing was regulated by U2AF1 and downregulation of U2AF1 enhanced CD44V3 expression, which promoted pancreatic cancer progression. CD44V3 is an important cancer-promoting factor, which may serve as a potential candidate for pancreatic cancer intervention.
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Jurgec S, Jezernik G, Gorenjak M, Büdefeld T, Potočnik U. Meta-Analytic Comparison of Global RNA Transcriptomes of Acute and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells Reveals Novel Gene Candidates Governing Myeloid Malignancies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194681. [PMID: 36230605 PMCID: PMC9562668 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite advances in the understanding of genetic risk factors and molecular mechanisms underlying acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), clinical outcomes of current therapies in terms of disease relapse and mortality rate pose a great economic and social burden. To overcome this, the identification of new molecular prognostic biomarkers and pharmacological targets is crucial. Recent studies have suggested that AML and CML may share common pathogenic mechanisms and cellular substrates. To this end, in the present study, global transcriptome profiles of AML and CML at the molecular and cellular level were directly compared using a combination of meta-analysis and modern statistics, and novel candidate genes and specific biological processes associated with the pathogenesis of AML and CML were characterized. Our study significantly improves our current understanding of myeloid leukemia and will help develop new therapeutic targets and biomarkers for disease progression, management and treatment response. Abstract Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) represent a group of hematological malignancies characterized by the pathogenic clonal expansion of leukemic myeloid cells. The diagnosis and clinical outcome of AML and CML are complicated by genetic heterogeneity of disease; therefore, the identification of novel molecular biomarkers and pharmacological targets is of paramount importance. Methods: RNA-seq-based transcriptome data from a total of five studies were extracted from NCBI GEO repository and subjected to an in-depth bioinformatics analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between AML and CML. A systemic literature survey and functional gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis were performed for the top 100 DEGs to identify novel candidate genes and biological processes associated with AML and CML. Results: LINC01554, PTMAP12, LOC644936, RPS27AP20 and FAM133CP were identified as novel risk genes for AML and CML. GO enrichment analysis showed that DEGs were significantly associated with pre-RNA splicing, reactive oxygen species and glycoprotein metabolism, the cellular endomembrane system, neutrophil migration and antimicrobial immune response. Conclusions: Our study revealed novel biomarkers and specific biological processes associated with AML and CML. Further studies are required to evaluate their value as molecular targets for managing and treating the myeloid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staša Jurgec
- Center for Human Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Laboratory for Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genomics, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Jezernik
- Center for Human Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Mario Gorenjak
- Center for Human Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Tomaž Büdefeld
- Center for Human Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Uroš Potočnik
- Center for Human Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Laboratory for Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genomics, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Department for Science and Research, University Medical Centre Maribor, Ljubljanska ulica 5, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +386-2-2345-854
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Zhao Y, Cai W, Hua Y, Yang X, Zhou J. The Biological and Clinical Consequences of RNA Splicing Factor U2AF1 Mutation in Myeloid Malignancies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4406. [PMID: 36139566 PMCID: PMC9496927 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations of spliceosome genes have been frequently identified in myeloid malignancies with the large-scale application of advanced sequencing technology. U2 small nuclear RNA auxiliary factor 1 (U2AF1), an essential component of U2AF heterodimer, plays a pivotal role in the pre-mRNA splicing processes to generate functional mRNAs. Over the past few decades, the mutation landscape of U2AF1 (most frequently involved S34 and Q157 hotspots) has been drawn in multiple cancers, particularly in myeloid malignancies. As a recognized early driver of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs), U2AF1 mutates most frequently in MDS, followed by acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Here, for the first time, we summarize the research progress of U2AF1 mutations in myeloid malignancies, including the correlations between U2AF1 mutations with clinical and genetic characteristics, prognosis, and the leukemic transformation of patients. We also summarize the adverse effects of U2AF1 mutations on hematopoietic function, and the alterations in downstream alternative gene splicing and biological pathways, thus providing comprehensive insights into the roles of U2AF1 mutations in the myeloid malignancy pathogenesis. U2AF1 mutations are expected to be potential novel molecular markers for myeloid malignancies, especially for risk stratification, prognosis assessment, and a therapeutic target of MDS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangjing Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Weili Cai
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Reproductive Immunity, School of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Jiangsu College of Nursing, Huai’an 223005, China
| | - Ye Hua
- Institute of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Xiaochen Yang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, Kunshan 215300, China
| | - Jingdong Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated People’s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212002, China
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Renosi F, Callanan M, Lefebvre C. Genetics and Epigenetics in Neoplasms with Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174132. [PMID: 36077669 PMCID: PMC9454802 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Differential diagnosis between Blastic pDC Neoplasm (BPDCN) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia with pDC expansion (pDC-AML) is particularly challenging, and genomic features can help in diagnosis. This review aims at clarifying recent data on genomics features because the past five years have generated a large amount of original data regarding pDC neoplasms. The genetic landscape of BPDCN is now well-defined, with important updates concerning MYC/MYC rearrangements, but also epigenetic defects and novel concepts in oncogenic and immune pathways. Concerning pDC-AML, they now appear to exhibit an original mutation landscape, especially with RUNX1 mutations, which is of interest for diagnostic criteria and for therapeutic purposes. We highlight here these two different profiles, which contribute to differential diagnosis between BPDCN and pDC-AML. This point is particularly important for the study of different therapeutic strategies between BPDCN and AML. Abstract Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells (pDC) are type I interferon (IFN)-producing cells that play a key role in immune responses. Two major types of neoplastic counterparts for pDC are now discriminated: Blastic pDC Neoplasm (BPDCN) and Mature pDC Proliferation (MPDCP), associated with myeloid neoplasm. Two types of MPDCP are now better described: Chronic MyeloMonocytic Leukemia with pDC expansion (pDC-CMML) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia with pDC expansion (pDC-AML). Differential diagnosis between pDC-AML and BPDCN is particularly challenging, and genomic features can help for diagnosis. Here, we systematically review the cytogenetic, molecular, and transcriptional characteristics of BPDCN and pDC-AML. BPDCN are characterized by frequent complex karyotypes with recurrent MYB/MYC rearrangements as well as recurrent deletions involving ETV6, IKZF1, RB1, and TP53 loci. Epigenetic and splicing pathways are also particularly mutated, while original processes are dysregulated, such as NF-kB, TCF4, BCL2, and IFN pathways; neutrophil-specific receptors; and cholinergic signaling. In contrast, cytogenetic abnormalities are limited in pDC-AML and are quite similar to other AML. Interestingly, RUNX1 is the most frequently mutated gene (70% of cases). These typical genomic features are of potential interest for diagnosis, and also from a prognostic or therapeutic perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Renosi
- INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098 RIGHT, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-25000 Besancon, France
- Laboratoire d’Hématologie et d’Immunologie Régional, Etablissement Français du Sang Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-25000 Besancon, France
- Correspondence:
| | - Mary Callanan
- INSERM 1231 and 1209, University of Bourgogne-Franche Comté, F-21000 Dijon, France
- Service d’Oncologie Génétique, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, F-21000 Dijon, France
| | - Christine Lefebvre
- INSERM 1209 and CNRS UMR 5309, Université Grenoble-Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France
- Laboratoire de Génétique des hémopathies, Institut de Biologie et de Pathologie, CHU Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France
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Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells: New Insights into the Pathogenesis and Therapy of MDS. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11164908. [PMID: 36013147 PMCID: PMC9410159 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11164908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are hematopoietic malignancies characterized by the clonal expansion of hematopoietic stem cells, bone marrow failure manifested by cytopenias, and increased risk for evolving to acute myeloid leukemia. Despite the fact that the acquisition of somatic mutations is considered key for the initiation of the disease, the bone marrow microenvironment also plays significant roles in MDS by providing the right niche and even shaping the malignant clone. Aberrant immune responses are frequent in MDS and are implicated in many aspects of MDS pathogenesis. Recently, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) have gained attention for their possible implication in the immune dysregulation associated with MDS. Here, we summarize the key findings regarding the expansion of MDSCs in MDS, their role in MDS pathogenesis and immune dysregulation, as well their potential as a new therapeutic target for MDS.
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Hai Y, Kawachi A, He X, Yoshimi A. Pathogenic Roles of RNA-Binding Proteins in Sarcomas. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153812. [PMID: 35954475 PMCID: PMC9367343 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are proteins that physically and functionally bind to RNA to regulate the RNA metabolism such as alternative splicing, polyadenylation, transport, maintenance of stability, localization, and translation. There is accumulating evidence that dysregulated RBPs play an essential role in the pathogenesis of malignant tumors including a variety of types of sarcomas. On the other hand, prognosis of patients with sarcoma, especially with sarcoma in advanced stages, is very poor, and almost no effective standard treatment has been established for most of types of sarcomas so far, highlighting the urgent need for identifying novel therapeutic targets based on the deep understanding of pathogenesis. Therefore, defining the network of interactions between RBPs and disease-related RNA targets will contribute to a better understanding of sarcomagenesis and identification of a novel therapeutic target for sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Hai
- Cancer RNA Research Unit, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
- Department of Physical and Chemical Inspection, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Asuka Kawachi
- Cancer RNA Research Unit, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
| | - Xiaodong He
- Department of Physical and Chemical Inspection, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Akihide Yoshimi
- Cancer RNA Research Unit, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-3542-2511
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Feustel K, Falchook GS. Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) Inhibitors in Oncology Clinical Trials: A review. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOTHERAPY AND PRECISION ONCOLOGY 2022; 5:58-67. [PMID: 36034581 PMCID: PMC9390703 DOI: 10.36401/jipo-22-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) inhibitors are a new class of antineoplastic agents showing promising preliminary clinical efficacy. Targeting an enzyme involved in a wide array of cellular and transcriptional pro-oncogenic processes, this class offers multifaceted tumor-suppressive effects. Partial response has been seen in adenoid cystic carcinoma from both GSK3326595 and JNJ-64619178, with four cases of stable disease seen with PRT543. Highly significant is a durable complete response in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1-mutated glioblastoma multiforme with PRT811. Both alone and in combination with existing chemotherapies and immunotherapies, this class shows promising preliminary data, particularly in cancers with splicing mutations and DNA damage repair deficiencies. Further studies are warranted, and there are clinical trials to come whose data will be telling of the efficacy of PRMT5 inhibitors in both hematologic and solid malignancies. The aim of this study is to compile available results of PRMT5 inhibitors in oncology clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavanya Feustel
- 1 Sky Ridge Medical Center, HCA Continental Division, Lone Tree, CO, USA
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61
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Gaulin C, Kelemen K, Arana Yi C. Molecular Pathways in Clonal Hematopoiesis: From the Acquisition of Somatic Mutations to Transformation into Hematologic Neoplasm. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:1135. [PMID: 36013314 PMCID: PMC9410004 DOI: 10.3390/life12081135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell aging, through the acquisition of somatic mutations, gives rise to clonal hematopoiesis (CH). While a high prevalence of CH has been described in otherwise healthy older adults, CH confers an increased risk of both hematologic and non-hematologic diseases. Classification of CH into clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) and clonal cytopenia of undetermined significance (CCUS) further describes this neoplastic myeloid precursor state and stratifies individuals at risk of developing clinically significant complications. The sequential acquisition of driver mutations, such as DNMT3A, TET2, and ASXL1, provide a selective advantage and lead to clonal expansion. Inflammation, microbiome signatures, and external selective pressures also contribute to clonal evolution. Despite significant progress in recent years, the precise molecular mechanisms driving CH transformation to hematologic neoplasms are not well defined. Further understanding of these complex mechanisms may improve risk stratification and introduce therapeutic interventions in CH. Here we discuss the genetic drivers underpinning CH, mechanisms for clonal evolution, and transformation to hematologic neoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Gaulin
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA;
| | - Katalin Kelemen
- Division of Hematopathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA;
| | - Cecilia Arana Yi
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA;
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NBBt-test: a versatile method for differential analysis of multiple types of RNA-seq data. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12833. [PMID: 35896555 PMCID: PMC9329447 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15762-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid development of transcriptome sequencing technologies has resulted in a data revolution and emergence of new approaches to study transcriptomic regulation such as alternative splicing, alternative polyadenylation, CRISPR knockout screening in addition to the regular gene expression. A full characterization of the transcriptional landscape of different groups of cells or tissues holds enormous potential for both basic science as well as clinical applications. Although many methods have been developed in the realm of differential gene expression analysis, they all geared towards a particular type of sequencing data and failed to perform well when applied in different types of transcriptomic data. To fill this gap, we offer a negative beta binomial t-test (NBBt-test). NBBt-test provides multiple functions to perform differential analyses of alternative splicing, polyadenylation, CRISPR knockout screening, and gene expression datasets. Both real and large-scale simulation data show superior performance of NBBt-test with higher efficiency, and lower type I error rate and FDR to identify differential isoforms and differentially expressed genes and differential CRISPR knockout screening genes with different sample sizes when compared against the current very popular statistical methods. An R-package implementing NBBt-test is available for downloading from CRAN (https://CRAN.R-project.org/package=NBBttest).
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63
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In Pursuit of Genetic Prognostic Factors and Treatment Approaches in Secondary Acute Myeloid Leukemia—A Narrative Review of Current Knowledge. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11154283. [PMID: 35893374 PMCID: PMC9332027 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11154283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary acute myeloid leukemia can be divided into two categories: AML evolving from the antecedent hematological condition (AHD-AML) and therapy related AML (t-AML). AHD-AML can evolve from hematological conditions such as myelodysplastic syndromes, myeloproliferative neoplasms, MDS/MPN overlap syndromes, Fanconi anemia, and aplastic anemia. Leukemic transformation occurs as a consequence of the clonal evolution—a process of the acquisition of mutations in clones, while previous mutations are also passed on, leading to somatic mutations accumulation. Compared de novo AML, secondary AML is generally associated with poorer response to chemotherapy and poorer prognosis. The therapeutic options for patients with s-AML have been confirmed to be limited, as s-AML has often been analyzed either both with de novo AML or completely excluded from clinical trials. The treatment of s-AML was not in any way different than de novo AML, until, that is, the introduction of CPX-351—liposomal daunorubicin and cytarabine. CPX-351 significantly improved the overall survival and progression free survival in elderly patients with s-AML. The only definitive treatment in s-AML at this time is allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. A better understanding of the genetics and epigenetics of s-AML would allow us to determine precise biologic drivers leading to leukogenesis and thus help to apply a targeted treatment, improving prognosis.
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64
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North K, Benbarche S, Liu B, Pangallo J, Chen S, Stahl M, Bewersdorf JP, Stanley RF, Erickson C, Cho H, Pineda JMB, Thomas JD, Polaski JT, Belleville AE, Gabel AM, Udy DB, Humbert O, Kiem HP, Abdel-Wahab O, Bradley RK. Synthetic introns enable splicing factor mutation-dependent targeting of cancer cells. Nat Biotechnol 2022; 40:1103-1113. [PMID: 35241838 PMCID: PMC9288984 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-022-01224-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Many cancers carry recurrent, change-of-function mutations affecting RNA splicing factors. Here, we describe a method to harness this abnormal splicing activity to drive splicing factor mutation-dependent gene expression to selectively eliminate tumor cells. We engineered synthetic introns that were efficiently spliced in cancer cells bearing SF3B1 mutations, but unspliced in otherwise isogenic wild-type cells, to yield mutation-dependent protein production. A massively parallel screen of 8,878 introns delineated ideal intronic size and mapped elements underlying mutation-dependent splicing. Synthetic introns enabled mutation-dependent expression of herpes simplex virus-thymidine kinase (HSV-TK) and subsequent ganciclovir (GCV)-mediated killing of SF3B1-mutant leukemia, breast cancer, uveal melanoma and pancreatic cancer cells in vitro, while leaving wild-type cells unaffected. Delivery of synthetic intron-containing HSV-TK constructs to leukemia, breast cancer and uveal melanoma cells and GCV treatment in vivo significantly suppressed the growth of these otherwise lethal xenografts and improved mouse host survival. Synthetic introns provide a means to exploit tumor-specific changes in RNA splicing for cancer gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khrystyna North
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Salima Benbarche
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bo Liu
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joseph Pangallo
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sisi Chen
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maximilian Stahl
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert F Stanley
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Caroline Erickson
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hana Cho
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jose Mario Bello Pineda
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - James D Thomas
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jacob T Polaski
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrea E Belleville
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Austin M Gabel
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Dylan B Udy
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Olivier Humbert
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Hans-Peter Kiem
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Omar Abdel-Wahab
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Robert K Bradley
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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65
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Nishimura K, Yamazaki H, Zang W, Inoue D. Dysregulated minor intron splicing in cancer. Cancer Sci 2022; 113:2934-2942. [PMID: 35766428 PMCID: PMC9459249 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre‐mRNA splicing is now widely recognized as a cotranscriptional and post‐transcriptional mechanism essential for regulating gene expression and modifying gene product function. Mutations in genes encoding core spliceosomal proteins and accessory regulatory splicing factors are now considered among the most recurrent genetic abnormalities in patients with cancer, particularly hematologic malignancies. These include mutations in the major (U2‐type) and minor (U12‐type) spliceosomes, which remove >99% and ~0.35% of introns, respectively. Growing evidence indicates that aberrant splicing of evolutionarily conserved U12‐type minor introns plays a crucial role in cancer as the minor spliceosome component, ZRSR2, is subject to recurrent, leukemia‐associated mutations, and intronic mutations have been shown to disrupt the splicing of minor introns. Here, we review the importance of minor intron regulation, the molecular effects of the minor (U12‐type) spliceosomal mutations and cis‐regulatory regions, and the development of minor intron studies for better understanding of cancer biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koutarou Nishimura
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hiromi Yamazaki
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Kobe, Japan
| | - Weijia Zang
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Kobe, Japan.,Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Daichi Inoue
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Kobe, Japan.,Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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66
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Bone Marrow Fibrosis at Diagnosis and during the Course of Disease Is Associated with TP53 Mutations and Adverse Prognosis in Primary Myelodysplastic Syndrome. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122984. [PMID: 35740649 PMCID: PMC9221530 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary To understand the role of bone marrow fibrosis and its molecular changes in myelodysplastic syndrome, we retrospectively analyzed data from 814 patients. Older age, lower hemoglobin, unfavorable karyotype and higher BM blast were more often observed in patients with moderate/severe fibrosis. Cases with bone marrow fibrosis had reduced overall survival. TP53, U2AF1 and KMT2D mutations were more frequent in patients with moderate/severe fibrosis. In addition, 15.1% of patients progressed to moderate/severe fibrosis during the follow-up interval. The clinical features, mutation landscape and prognosis of patients with progressed fibrosis were similar to those patients with moderate/severe fibrosis at diagnosis. We concluded that bone marrow fibrosis was associated with reduced overall survival in primary MDS and correlated with TP53 mutations both at the time of initial diagnosis and during the course of the disease. Abstract The prognostic significance of bone marrow fibrosis (MF) grade in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is still debated and the molecular changes remain unclear. In our large cohort, a normal reticulum was found in 211 (25.9%) patients, whereas MF1, MF2 and MF3 were detected in 478 (58.7%), 90 (11.1%) and 35 (4.3%) patients at initial diagnosis, respectively. Patients with MF often correlated with some poor prognostic characteristics, including older age, anemia, unfavorable karyotype, higher BM blast and a higher IPSS-R category. For the entire cohort, the median OS was not reached, 30, 16 and 15 months for patients with MF 0, 1, 2 and 3, respectively. After adjusting for IPSS-R, the hazard ratio for mortality was 1.56 (95% CI, 1.18–2.06) for patients with MF1, 2.29 (95% CI, 1.61–3.27) for patients with MF2 and 2.75 (95% CI, 1.69–4.49) for patients with MF3 compared with those with MF0. The mutational landscape of 370 patients showed that TP53, U2AF1 and KMT2D mutations were more frequent in patients with MF2-3. In addition, of the 408 patients with MF0-1, 62 patients (15.1%) progressed to MF2-3 during the follow-up interval. The clinical features, mutation landscape and prognosis of patients with progressed fibrosis were similar to those of patients with MF2-3 at diagnosis. We concluded that BM fibrosis (MF1, 2 and 3) was an adverse prognosis feature in primary MDS and correlated with TP53 mutations both at the time of initial diagnosis and during the course of the disease. Therefore, BM fibrosis should be included in the revised prognostic scoring system and carefully considered in treatment selection.
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67
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González-Rodríguez P, Klionsky DJ, Joseph B. Autophagy regulation by RNA alternative splicing and implications in human diseases. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2735. [PMID: 35585060 PMCID: PMC9117662 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30433-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy and RNA alternative splicing are two evolutionarily conserved processes involved in overlapping physiological and pathological processes. However, the extent of functional connection is not well defined. Here, we consider the role for alternative splicing and generation of autophagy-related gene isoforms in the regulation of autophagy in recent work. The impact of changes to the RNA alternative splicing machinery and production of alternative spliced isoforms on autophagy are reviewed with particular focus on disease relevance. The use of drugs targeting both alternative splicing and autophagy as well as the selective regulation of single autophagy-related protein isoforms, are considered as therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia González-Rodríguez
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Toxicology Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Daniel J Klionsky
- Life Sciences Institute, Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Bertrand Joseph
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Toxicology Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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68
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González-López O, Muñoz-González JI, Orfao A, Álvarez-Twose I, García-Montero AC. Comprehensive Analysis of Acquired Genetic Variants and Their Prognostic Impact in Systemic Mastocytosis. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102487. [PMID: 35626091 PMCID: PMC9139197 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is a rare clonal haematopoietic stem cell disease in which activating KIT mutations (most commonly KIT D816V) are present in virtually every (>90%) adult patient at similar frequencies among non-advanced and advanced forms of SM. The KIT D816V mutation is considered the most common pathogenic driver of SM. Acquisition of this mutation early during haematopoiesis may cause multilineage involvement of haematopoiesis by KIT D816V, which has been associated with higher tumour burden and additional mutations in other genes, leading to an increased rate of transformation to advanced SM. Thus, among other mutations, alterations in around 30 genes that are also frequently mutated in other myeloid neoplasms have been reported in SM cases. From these genes, 12 (i.e., ASXL1, CBL, DNMT3A, EZH2, JAK2, KRAS, NRAS, SF3B1, RUNX1, SF3B1, SRSF2, TET2) have been recurrently reported to be mutated in SM. Because of all the above, assessment of multilineage involvement of haematopoiesis by the KIT D816V mutation, in the setting of multi-mutated haematopoiesis as revealed by a limited panel of genes (i.e., ASXL1, CBL, DNMT3A, EZH2, NRAS, RUNX1 and SRSF2) and associated with a poorer patient outcome, has become of great help to identify SM patients at higher risk of disease progression and/or poor survival who could benefit from closer follow-up and eventually also early cytoreductive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar González-López
- Cancer Research Center (IBMCC, USAL/CSIC), Department of Medicine, Universidad de Salamanca, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca and Spanish Network on Mastocytosis (REMA), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (O.G.-L.); (J.I.M.-G.); (A.O.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Javier I. Muñoz-González
- Cancer Research Center (IBMCC, USAL/CSIC), Department of Medicine, Universidad de Salamanca, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca and Spanish Network on Mastocytosis (REMA), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (O.G.-L.); (J.I.M.-G.); (A.O.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Alberto Orfao
- Cancer Research Center (IBMCC, USAL/CSIC), Department of Medicine, Universidad de Salamanca, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca and Spanish Network on Mastocytosis (REMA), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (O.G.-L.); (J.I.M.-G.); (A.O.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Iván Álvarez-Twose
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain;
- Instituto de Estudios de Mastocitosis de Castilla La Mancha (CLMast, Virgen del Valle Hospital) and REMA, 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Andrés C. García-Montero
- Cancer Research Center (IBMCC, USAL/CSIC), Department of Medicine, Universidad de Salamanca, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca and Spanish Network on Mastocytosis (REMA), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (O.G.-L.); (J.I.M.-G.); (A.O.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain;
- Correspondence:
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69
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Stanley RF, Abdel-Wahab O. Dysregulation and therapeutic targeting of RNA splicing in cancer. NATURE CANCER 2022; 3:536-546. [PMID: 35624337 PMCID: PMC9551392 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-022-00384-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
High-throughput sequencing and functional characterization of the cancer transcriptome have uncovered cancer-specific dysregulation of RNA splicing across a variety of cancers. Alterations in the cancer genome and dysregulation of RNA splicing factors lead to missplicing, splicing alteration-dependent gene expression and, in some cases, generation of novel splicing-derived proteins. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of aberrant splicing in cancer pathogenesis and present strategies to harness cancer-specific aberrant splicing for therapeutic intent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert F Stanley
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program and Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Omar Abdel-Wahab
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program and Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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70
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Chen C, Zhou P, Zhang Z, Liu Y.
U2AF1
mutation Connects
DNA
Damage to the Alternative Splicing of
RAD51
in Lung Adenocarcinomas. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2022; 49:740-747. [PMID: 35434831 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chuanhui Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang Jiangxi P.R. China
| | - Pinglang Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang Jiangxi P.R. China
| | - Zhizhe Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang Jiangxi P.R. China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang Jiangxi P.R. China
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71
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Fattizzo B, Levati GV, Giannotta JA, Cassanello G, Cro LM, Zaninoni A, Barbieri M, Croci GA, Revelli N, Barcellini W. Low-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome Revisited: Morphological, Autoimmune, and Molecular Features as Predictors of Outcome in a Single Center Experience. Front Oncol 2022; 12:795955. [PMID: 35392224 PMCID: PMC8980524 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.795955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (LR-MDS) are a very heterogeneous disease, with extremely variable clinical features and outcome. Therapeutic strategies are still limited and mainly consist of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) and transfusion support. The contribution of molecular lesions and of autoimmune phenomena to pathogenesis and clinical course, including leukemic evolution, is a field of open investigation. We analyzed data from a cohort of 226 patients with LR-MDS followed at our center in the last 20 years, focusing on morphological, immunological (antiplatelets and anti-erythrocyte autoantibodies, anti-erythroblast antibodies), and molecular features. Hypoplastic bone marrow was found in 7% of the cases correlating with younger age, deeper cytopenia, lower dysplasia, and worse response to ESAs. A marker of autoimmunity was observed in 46% of the tested cases, who were younger, were less frequent dysplastic changes, and responded better to ESAs and steroids. Finally, 68% of the tested cases displayed at least one somatic mutation, most commonly SF3B1, TET2, ASXL1, and SRSF2, associated with older age, presence of neutropenia, and lower response to ESAs. Leukemic evolution (2.2%) was associated with presence of somatic mutations, and survival was favorably related to response to ESAs and transfusion independence. Overall, granular evaluation and re-evaluation are pivotal in LR-MDS patients to optimize clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Fattizzo
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Giulio Cassanello
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Lilla Marcella Cro
- Cytofluorimetry Service, Central Laboratory Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Zaninoni
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Marzia Barbieri
- Cytofluorimetry Service, Central Laboratory Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgio Alberto Croci
- Pathology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Revelli
- Immunohematology Reference Laboratory, Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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72
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Nath P, Maiti D. A review of the mutagenic potential of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) to induce hematological malignancies. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2022; 36:e23067. [PMID: 35393684 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review is intended to summarize the existing literature on the mutagenicity of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) in inducing hematological malignancies, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in mice. Blood or hematological malignancies are the most common malignant disorders seen in people of all age groups. Driven by a number of genetic alterations, leukemia rule out the normal proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and their progenitors in the bone marrow (BM) and severely affects blood functions. Out of all hematological malignancies, AML is the most aggressive type, with a high incidence and mortality rate. AML is found as either de novo or secondary therapeutic AML (t-AML). t-AML is a serious adverse consequence of alkylator chemotherapy to the cancer patient and alone constitutes about 10%-20% of all reported AML cases. Cancer patients who received alkylator chemotherapy are at an elevated risk of developing t-AML. ENU has a long history of use as a potent carcinogen that induces blood malignancies in mice and rats that are pathologically similar to human AML and t-AML. ENU, once entered into the body, circulates all over the body tissues and reaches BM. It creates an overall state of suppression within the BM by damaging the marrow cells, alkylating the DNA, and forming DNA adducts within the early and late hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. The BM holds a weak DNA repair mechanism due to low alkyltransferase, and poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase (PARP) enzyme content often fails to obliterate those adducts, acting as a catalyst to bring genetic abnormalities, including point gene mutations as well as chromosomal alterations, for example, translocation and inversion. Taking advantage of ENU-induced immune-suppressed state and weak immune surveillance, these mutations remain viable and slowly give rise to transformed HSCs. This review also highlights the carcinogenic nature of ENU and the complex relation between the ENU's overall toxicity in the induction of hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyatosh Nath
- Immunology Microbiology Lab, Department of Human Physiology, Tripura University, Agartala, Tripura, India
| | - Debasish Maiti
- Immunology Microbiology Lab, Department of Human Physiology, Tripura University, Agartala, Tripura, India
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73
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Liu W, Teodorescu P, Halene S, Ghiaur G. The Coming of Age of Preclinical Models of MDS. Front Oncol 2022; 12:815037. [PMID: 35372085 PMCID: PMC8966105 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.815037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of clonal bone-marrow diseases with ineffective hematopoiesis resulting in cytopenias and morphologic dysplasia of hematopoietic cells. MDS carry a wide spectrum of genetic abnormalities, ranging from chromosomal abnormalities such as deletions/additions, to recurrent mutations affecting the spliceosome, epigenetic modifiers, or transcription factors. As opposed to AML, research in MDS has been hindered by the lack of preclinical models that faithfully replicate the complexity of the disease and capture the heterogeneity. The complex molecular landscape of the disease poses a unique challenge when creating transgenic mouse-models. In addition, primary MDS cells are difficult to manipulate ex vivo limiting in vitro studies and resulting in a paucity of cell lines and patient derived xenograft models. In recent years, progress has been made in the development of both transgenic and xenograft murine models advancing our understanding of individual contributors to MDS pathology as well as the complex primary interplay of genetic and microenvironment aberrations. We here present a comprehensive review of these transgenic and xenograft models for MDS and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Section of Hematology, Yale Cancer Center and Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Patric Teodorescu
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Stephanie Halene
- Section of Hematology, Yale Cancer Center and Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Gabriel Ghiaur
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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74
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Sette C, Paronetto MP. Somatic Mutations in Core Spliceosome Components Promote Tumorigenesis and Generate an Exploitable Vulnerability in Human Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071827. [PMID: 35406598 PMCID: PMC8997811 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary High throughput exome sequencing approaches have disclosed recurrent cancer-associated mutations in spliceosomal components, which drive aberrant pre-mRNA processing events and support the tumor phenotype. At the same time, mutations in spliceosome genes and aberrant splicing regulation establish a selective vulnerability of cancer cells to splicing-targeting approaches, which could be exploited therapeutically. It is conceivable that a better understanding of the mechanisms and roles of abnormal splicing in tumor metabolism will facilitate the development of a novel generation of tumor-targeting drugs. In this review, we describe recent advances in the elucidation of the biological impact and biochemical effects of somatic mutations in core spliceosome components on splicing choices and their associated targetable vulnerabilities. Abstract Alternative pre-mRNA processing enables the production of distinct mRNA and protein isoforms from a single gene, thus greatly expanding the coding potential of eukaryotic genomes and fine-tuning gene expression programs. Splicing is carried out by the spliceosome, a complex molecular machinery which assembles step-wise on mRNA precursors in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. In the last decade, exome sequencing technologies have allowed the identification of point mutations in genes encoding splicing factors as a recurrent hallmark of human cancers, with higher incidence in hematological malignancies. These mutations lead to production of splicing factors that reduce the fidelity of the splicing process and yield splicing variants that are often advantageous for cancer cells. However, at the same time, these mutations increase the sensitivity of transformed cells to splicing inhibitors, thus offering a therapeutic opportunity for novel targeted strategies. Herein, we review the recent literature documenting cancer-associated mutations in components of the early spliceosome complex and discuss novel therapeutic strategies based on small-molecule spliceosome inhibitors that exhibit strong anti-tumor effects, particularly against cancer cells harboring mutations in spliceosomal components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Sette
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- GSTEP-Organoids Core Facility, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Paronetto
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 6, 00135 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia, IRCCS, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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75
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Genetic Background of Polycythemia Vera. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13040637. [PMID: 35456443 PMCID: PMC9027017 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycythemia vera belongs to myeloproliferative neoplasms, essentially by affecting the erythroblastic lineage. JAK2 alterations have emerged as major driver mutations triggering PV-phenotype with the V617F mutation detected in nearly 98% of cases. That’s why JAK2 targeting therapeutic strategies have rapidly emerged to counter the aggravation of the disease. Over decades of research, to go further in the understanding of the disease and its evolution, a wide panel of genetic alterations affecting multiple genes has been highlighted. These are mainly involved in alternative splicing, epigenetic, miRNA regulation, intracellular signaling, and transcription factors expression. If JAK2 mutation, irrespective of the nature of the alteration, is known to be a crucial event for the disease to initiate, additional mutations seem to be markers of progression and poor prognosis. These discoveries have helped to characterize the complex genomic landscape of PV, resulting in potentially new adapted therapeutic strategies for patients concerning all the genetic interferences.
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76
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Biancon G, Joshi P, Zimmer JT, Hunck T, Gao Y, Lessard MD, Courchaine E, Barentine AES, Machyna M, Botti V, Qin A, Gbyli R, Patel A, Song Y, Kiefer L, Viero G, Neuenkirchen N, Lin H, Bewersdorf J, Simon MD, Neugebauer KM, Tebaldi T, Halene S. Precision analysis of mutant U2AF1 activity reveals deployment of stress granules in myeloid malignancies. Mol Cell 2022; 82:1107-1122.e7. [PMID: 35303483 PMCID: PMC8988922 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Splicing factor mutations are common among cancers, recently emerging as drivers of myeloid malignancies. U2AF1 carries hotspot mutations in its RNA-binding motifs; however, how they affect splicing and promote cancer remain unclear. The U2AF1/U2AF2 heterodimer is critical for 3' splice site (3'SS) definition. To specifically unmask changes in U2AF1 function in vivo, we developed a crosslinking and immunoprecipitation procedure that detects contacts between U2AF1 and the 3'SS AG at single-nucleotide resolution. Our data reveal that the U2AF1 S34F and Q157R mutants establish new 3'SS contacts at -3 and +1 nucleotides, respectively. These effects compromise U2AF2-RNA interactions, resulting predominantly in intron retention and exon exclusion. Integrating RNA binding, splicing, and turnover data, we predicted that U2AF1 mutations directly affect stress granule components, which was corroborated by single-cell RNA-seq. Remarkably, U2AF1-mutant cell lines and patient-derived MDS/AML blasts displayed a heightened stress granule response, pointing to a novel role for biomolecular condensates in adaptive oncogenic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Biancon
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Poorval Joshi
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joshua T Zimmer
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Institute for Biomolecular Design and Discovery, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Torben Hunck
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yimeng Gao
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mark D Lessard
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Edward Courchaine
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Andrew E S Barentine
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Martin Machyna
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Valentina Botti
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ashley Qin
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rana Gbyli
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Amisha Patel
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yuanbin Song
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Hematologic Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lea Kiefer
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Nils Neuenkirchen
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Haifan Lin
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Center for RNA Science and Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joerg Bewersdorf
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Matthew D Simon
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Center for RNA Science and Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Institute for Biomolecular Design and Discovery, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Karla M Neugebauer
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Center for RNA Science and Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Toma Tebaldi
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy.
| | - Stephanie Halene
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Center for RNA Science and Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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77
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PanCancer analysis of somatic mutations in repetitive regions reveals recurrent mutations in snRNA U2. NPJ Genom Med 2022; 7:19. [PMID: 35288589 PMCID: PMC8921233 DOI: 10.1038/s41525-022-00292-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Current somatic mutation callers are biased against repetitive regions, preventing the identification of potential driver alterations in these loci. We developed a mutation caller for repetitive regions, and applied it to study repetitive non protein-coding genes in more than 2200 whole-genome cases. We identified a recurrent mutation at position c.28 in the gene encoding the snRNA U2. This mutation is present in B-cell derived tumors, as well as in prostate and pancreatic cancer, suggesting U2 c.28 constitutes a driver candidate associated with worse prognosis. We showed that the GRCh37 reference genome is incomplete, lacking the U2 cluster in chromosome 17, preventing the identification of mutations in this gene. Furthermore, the 5′-flanking region of WDR74, previously described as frequently mutated in cancer, constitutes a functional copy of U2. These data reinforce the relevance of non-coding mutations in cancer, and highlight current challenges of cancer genomic research in characterizing mutations affecting repetitive genes.
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78
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Heazlewood SY, Ahmad T, Mohenska M, Guo BB, Gangatirkar P, Josefsson EC, Ellis SL, Ratnadiwakara M, Cao H, Cao B, Heazlewood CK, Williams B, Fulton M, White JF, Ramialison M, Nilsson SK, Änkö ML. The RNA-binding protein SRSF3 has an essential role in megakaryocyte maturation and platelet production. Blood 2022; 139:1359-1373. [PMID: 34852174 PMCID: PMC8900270 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021013826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA processing is increasingly recognized as a critical control point in the regulation of different hematopoietic lineages including megakaryocytes responsible for the production of platelets. Platelets are anucleate cytoplasts that contain a rich repertoire of RNAs encoding proteins with essential platelet functions derived from the parent megakaryocyte. It is largely unknown how RNA binding proteins contribute to the development and functions of megakaryocytes and platelets. We show that serine-arginine-rich splicing factor 3 (SRSF3) is essential for megakaryocyte maturation and generation of functional platelets. Megakaryocyte-specific deletion of Srsf3 in mice led to macrothrombocytopenia characterized by megakaryocyte maturation arrest, dramatically reduced platelet counts, and abnormally large functionally compromised platelets. SRSF3 deficient megakaryocytes failed to reprogram their transcriptome during maturation and to load platelets with RNAs required for normal platelet function. SRSF3 depletion led to nuclear accumulation of megakaryocyte mRNAs, demonstrating that SRSF3 deploys similar RNA regulatory mechanisms in megakaryocytes as in other cell types. Our study further suggests that SRSF3 plays a role in sorting cytoplasmic megakaryocyte RNAs into platelets and demonstrates how SRSF3-mediated RNA processing forms a central part of megakaryocyte gene regulation. Understanding SRSF3 functions in megakaryocytes and platelets provides key insights into normal thrombopoiesis and platelet pathologies as SRSF3 RNA targets in megakaryocytes are associated with platelet diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Y Heazlewood
- Biomedical Manufacturing CSIRO, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Tanveer Ahmad
- Biomedical Manufacturing CSIRO, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Monika Mohenska
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Belinda B Guo
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Pathology and Laboratory Science, University of Western Australia, WA, Australia
| | | | - Emma C Josefsson
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah L Ellis
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Microscopy Facility and School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, VIC, Australia
| | - Madara Ratnadiwakara
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, VIC, Australia; and
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Huimin Cao
- Biomedical Manufacturing CSIRO, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Benjamin Cao
- Biomedical Manufacturing CSIRO, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Chad K Heazlewood
- Biomedical Manufacturing CSIRO, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Brenda Williams
- Biomedical Manufacturing CSIRO, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Madeline Fulton
- Biomedical Manufacturing CSIRO, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Mirana Ramialison
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Susan K Nilsson
- Biomedical Manufacturing CSIRO, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Minna-Liisa Änkö
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, VIC, Australia
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, VIC, Australia; and
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, VIC, Australia
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79
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Miller CA, Walker JR, Jensen TL, Hooper WF, Fulton RS, Painter JS, Sekeres MA, Ley TJ, Spencer DH, Goll JB, Walter MJ. Failure to Detect Mutations in U2AF1 due to Changes in the GRCh38 Reference Sequence. J Mol Diagn 2022; 24:219-223. [PMID: 35041928 PMCID: PMC8950341 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2021.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The U2AF1 gene is a core part of mRNA splicing machinery and frequently contains somatic mutations that contribute to oncogenesis in myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myeloid leukemia, and other cancers. A change introduced in the GRCh38 version of the human reference build prevents detection of mutations in this gene, and others, by variant calling pipelines. This study describes the problem in detail and shows that a modified GRCh38 reference build with unchanged coordinates can be used to ameliorate the issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A. Miller
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri,Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri,Address correspondence to Christopher A. Miller, Ph.D., Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave, Campus Box 8007, St. Louis, MO 63110.
| | - Jason R. Walker
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | | | | | - Robert S. Fulton
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Mikkael A. Sekeres
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Timothy J. Ley
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri,Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - David H. Spencer
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri,Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Matthew J. Walter
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri,Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
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80
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Tuerxun N, Wang J, Zhao F, Qin YT, Wang H, Chen R, Hao JP. Bioinformatics analysis deciphering the transcriptomic signatures associated with signalling pathways and prognosis in the myelodysplastic syndromes. Hematology 2022; 27:214-231. [PMID: 35134316 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2022.2029256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies scatteredly identified the myelodysplastic syndromes' transcriptomic profiles (MDS). However, the exploration of transcriptional signatures, key signalling pathways, and their association with prognosis and diagnosis in the integrated multiple datasets remains lacking. METHODS We integrated the GSE4619, GSE19429, GSE30195, and GSE58831 microarray datasets of CD34 + cells for identifying the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the MDS. The series of bioinformatics methods are applied to identify the key hub genes, gene clusters, prognostic hub genes, and genes associated with diagnostic efficacy. Finally, we validated the expression differences of hub genes in the GSE114922 dataset. RESULTS We explored the DEGs related to gene ontology enrichment and KEGG pathways. We identified significant hub genes, including 168 upregulated hub genes (such as STAT1, IFIH1, EPRS, GRB2, RAC2, MAPK14, CASP1, and SPI1) and 52 downregulated hub genes (such as CREBBP, HIF1A, PIK3CA, EZH2, PIK3R1, MDM2, IRF4, CXCR4, PCNA, and CD19) in the MDS. In addition, we identified six significant molecular complex detection (MCODE)-derived upregulated gene clusters and one downregulated gene cluster, respectively. Moreover, we found that the higher expression level of MX2, GBP2, PXN, IFI44, FDXR, PLCB2, ASS1, ERCC4, PML, and RRAGD and the lower expression level of CD19, PAX5, TCF3, LEF1, NUSAP1, and TIMELESS hub genes are significantly correlated with shorter survival times of MDS patients. Furthermore, the area value under the ROC curve (AUC) of PXN, FDXR, PLCB2, PML, CD19, PAX5, and LEF1 prognostic genes are more than 0.80, indicating that these genes could be effectively used for the diagnostic efficacy of MDS patients. CONCLUSIONS Identifying key hub genes and their association with the prognosis and diagnostic efficacy may provide substantial clues for the treatment and diagnosis of MDS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niluopaer Tuerxun
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Zhao
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Ting Qin
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Ping Hao
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
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81
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Cook MR, Karp JE, Lai C. The spectrum of genetic mutations in myelodysplastic syndrome: Should we update prognostication? EJHAEM 2022; 3:301-313. [PMID: 35846202 PMCID: PMC9176033 DOI: 10.1002/jha2.317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The natural history of patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is dependent upon the presence and magnitude of diverse genetic and molecular aberrations. The International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) and revised IPSS (IPSS-R) are the most widely used classification and prognostic systems; however, somatic mutations are not currently incorporated into these systems, despite evidence of their independent impact on prognosis. Our manuscript reviews prognostic information for TP53, EZH2, DNMT3A, ASXL1, RUNX1, SRSF2, CBL, IDH 1/2, TET2, BCOR, ETV6, GATA2, U2AF1, ZRSR2, RAS, STAG2, and SF3B1. Mutations in TP53, EZH2, ASXL1, DNMT3A, RUNX1, SRSF2, and CBL have extensive evidence for their negative impact on survival, whereas SF3B1 is the lone mutation carrying a favorable prognosis. We use the existing literature to propose the incorporation of somatic mutations into the IPSS-R. More data are needed to define the broad spectrum of other genetic lesions, as well as the impact of variant allele frequencies, class of mutation, and impact of multiple interactive genomic lesions. We postulate that the incorporation of these data into MDS prognostication systems will not only enhance our therapeutic decision making but lead to targeted treatment in an attempt to improve outcomes in this formidable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R. Cook
- Division of Hematology and OncologyLombardi Comprehensive Cancer CenterGeorgetown University HospitalWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Judith E. Karp
- Divison of Hematology and OncologyThe Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer CenterJohns Hopkins University HospitalBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Catherine Lai
- Division of Hematology and OncologyLombardi Comprehensive Cancer CenterGeorgetown University HospitalWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
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82
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Lee WY, Gutierrez-Lanz EA, Xiao H, McClintock D, Chan MP, Bixby DL, Shao L. ERG amplification is a secondary recurrent driver event in myeloid malignancy with complex karyotype and TP53 mutations. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2022; 61:399-411. [PMID: 35083818 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.23027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
ERG is a transcription factor encoded on chromosome 21q22.2 with important roles in hematopoiesis and oncogenesis of prostate cancer. ERG amplification has been identified as one of the most common recurrent events in acute myeloid leukemia with complex karyotype (AML-CK). In this study, we uncover 3 different modes of ERG amplification in AML-CK. Importantly, we present evidence to show that ERG amplification is distinct from intrachromosomal amplification of chromosome 21 (iAMP21), a hallmark segmental amplification frequently encompassing RUNX1 and ERG in a subset of high-risk B-lymphoblastic leukemia. We also characterize the association with TP53 aberrations and other chromosomal aberrations, including chromothripsis. Lastly, we show that ERG amplification can initially emerge as subclonal events in low grade myeloid neoplasms. These findings demonstrate that ERG amplification is a recurrent secondary driver event in AML and raise the tantalizing possibility of ERG as a therapeutic target. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winston Y Lee
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Efrain A Gutierrez-Lanz
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Hong Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - David McClintock
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - May P Chan
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Dale L Bixby
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lina Shao
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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83
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Tan J, Chow YP, Zainul Abidin N, Chang KM, Selvaratnam V, Tumian NR, Poh YM, Veerakumarasivam A, Laffan MA, Wong CL. Analysis of genetic variants in myeloproliferative neoplasms using a 22-gene next-generation sequencing panel. BMC Med Genomics 2022; 15:10. [PMID: 35033063 PMCID: PMC8760696 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-021-01145-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Philadelphia (Ph)-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), namely essential thrombocythaemia (ET), polycythaemia vera (PV) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), are a group of chronic clonal haematopoietic disorders that have the propensity to advance into bone marrow failure or acute myeloid leukaemia; often resulting in fatality. Although driver mutations have been identified in these MPNs, subtype-specific markers of the disease have yet to be discovered. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology can potentially improve the clinical management of MPNs by allowing for the simultaneous screening of many disease-associated genes. Methods The performance of a custom, in-house designed 22-gene NGS panel was technically validated using reference standards across two independent replicate runs. The panel was subsequently used to screen a total of 10 clinical MPN samples (ET n = 3, PV n = 3, PMF n = 4). The resulting NGS data was then analysed via a bioinformatics pipeline. Results The custom NGS panel had a detection limit of 1% variant allele frequency (VAF). A total of 20 unique variants with VAFs above 5% (4 of which were putatively novel variants with potential biological significance) and one pathogenic variant with a VAF of between 1 and 5% were identified across all of the clinical MPN samples. All single nucleotide variants with VAFs ≥ 15% were confirmed via Sanger sequencing. Conclusions The high fidelity of the NGS analysis and the identification of known and novel variants in this study cohort support its potential clinical utility in the management of MPNs. However, further optimisation is needed to avoid false negatives in regions with low sequencing coverage, especially for the detection of driver mutations in MPL. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12920-021-01145-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaymi Tan
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yock Ping Chow
- Clinical Research Centre, Sunway Medical Centre, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Norziha Zainul Abidin
- Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Sunway Medical Centre, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Kian Meng Chang
- Haematology Unit, Department of Medicine, Sunway Medical Centre, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | | | - Nor Rafeah Tumian
- Haematology Unit, Department of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yang Ming Poh
- School of Data Sciences, Perdana University, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abhi Veerakumarasivam
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Michael Arthur Laffan
- Centre for Haematology, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.,Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Chieh Lee Wong
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. .,Clinical Research Centre, Sunway Medical Centre, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. .,Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Sunway Medical Centre, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. .,Haematology Unit, Department of Medicine, Sunway Medical Centre, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. .,Centre for Haematology, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK. .,Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.
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84
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Niño CA, Scotto di Perrotolo R, Polo S. Recurrent Spliceosome Mutations in Cancer: Mechanisms and Consequences of Aberrant Splice Site Selection. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:281. [PMID: 35053445 PMCID: PMC8773931 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Splicing alterations have been widely documented in tumors where the proliferation and dissemination of cancer cells is supported by the expression of aberrant isoform variants. Splicing is catalyzed by the spliceosome, a ribonucleoprotein complex that orchestrates the complex process of intron removal and exon ligation. In recent years, recurrent hotspot mutations in the spliceosome components U1 snRNA, SF3B1, and U2AF1 have been identified across different tumor types. Such mutations in principle are highly detrimental for cells as all three spliceosome components are crucial for accurate splice site selection: the U1 snRNA is essential for 5′ splice site recognition, and SF3B1 and U2AF1 are important for 3′ splice site selection. Nonetheless, they appear to be selected to promote specific types of cancers. Here, we review the current molecular understanding of these mutations in cancer, focusing on how they influence splice site selection and impact on cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A. Niño
- Fondazione Istituto FIRC di Oncologia Molecolare (IFOM), 20139 Milan, Italy;
| | | | - Simona Polo
- Fondazione Istituto FIRC di Oncologia Molecolare (IFOM), 20139 Milan, Italy;
- Dipartimento di Oncologia ed Emato-Oncologia, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy
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85
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Vervoort SJ, Devlin JR, Kwiatkowski N, Teng M, Gray NS, Johnstone RW. Targeting transcription cycles in cancer. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:5-24. [PMID: 34675395 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-021-00411-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Accurate control of gene expression is essential for normal development and dysregulation of transcription underpins cancer onset and progression. Similar to cell cycle regulation, RNA polymerase II-driven transcription can be considered as a unidirectional multistep cycle, with thousands of unique transcription cycles occurring in concert within each cell. Each transcription cycle comprises recruitment, initiation, pausing, elongation, termination and recycling stages that are tightly controlled by the coordinated action of transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases and their cognate cyclins as well as the opposing activity of transcriptional phosphatases. Oncogenic dysregulation of transcription can entail defective control of gene expression, either at select loci or more globally, impacting a large proportion of the genome. The resultant dependency on the core-transcriptional machinery is believed to render 'transcriptionally addicted' cancers sensitive to perturbation of transcription. Based on these findings, small molecules targeting transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases and associated proteins hold promise for the treatment of cancer. Here, we utilize the transcription cycles concept to explain how dysregulation of these finely tuned gene expression processes may drive tumorigenesis and how therapeutically beneficial responses may arise from global or selective transcriptional perturbation. This conceptual framework helps to explain tumour-selective transcriptional dependencies and facilitates the rational design of combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephin J Vervoort
- Gene Regulation Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jennifer R Devlin
- Gene Regulation Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nicholas Kwiatkowski
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mingxing Teng
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nathanael S Gray
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, CHEM-H and SCI, Stanford Medical School, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Ricky W Johnstone
- Gene Regulation Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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86
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Lai HC, Ho UY, James A, De Souza P, Roberts TL. RNA metabolism and links to inflammatory regulation and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 79:21. [PMID: 34971439 PMCID: PMC11072290 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04073-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation is vital to protect the host against foreign organism invasion and cellular damage. It requires tight and concise gene expression for regulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory gene expression in immune cells. Dysregulated immune responses caused by gene mutations and errors in post-transcriptional regulation can lead to chronic inflammatory diseases and cancer. The mechanisms underlying post-transcriptional gene expression regulation include mRNA splicing, mRNA export, mRNA localisation, mRNA stability, RNA/protein interaction, and post-translational events such as protein stability and modification. The majority of studies to date have focused on transcriptional control pathways. However, post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA in eukaryotes is equally important and related information is lacking. In this review, we will focus on the mechanisms involved in the pre-mRNA splicing events, mRNA surveillance, RNA degradation pathways, disorders or symptoms caused by mutations or errors in post-transcriptional regulation during innate immunity especially toll-like receptor mediated pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Chi Lai
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia.
- South West Sydney Clinical School, UNSW Australia, Liverpool, NSW, Australia.
| | - Uda Y Ho
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Alexander James
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul De Souza
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Macarthur, NSW, Australia
| | - Tara L Roberts
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
- South West Sydney Clinical School, UNSW Australia, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Macarthur, NSW, Australia
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87
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Czegle I, Gray AL, Wang M, Liu Y, Wang J, Wappler-Guzzetta EA. Mitochondria and Their Relationship with Common Genetic Abnormalities in Hematologic Malignancies. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:1351. [PMID: 34947882 PMCID: PMC8707674 DOI: 10.3390/life11121351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematologic malignancies are known to be associated with numerous cytogenetic and molecular genetic changes. In addition to morphology, immunophenotype, cytochemistry and clinical characteristics, these genetic alterations are typically required to diagnose myeloid, lymphoid, and plasma cell neoplasms. According to the current World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Tumors of Hematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues, numerous genetic changes are highlighted, often defining a distinct subtype of a disease, or providing prognostic information. This review highlights how these molecular changes can alter mitochondrial bioenergetics, cell death pathways, mitochondrial dynamics and potentially be related to mitochondrial genetic changes. A better understanding of these processes emphasizes potential novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibolya Czegle
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Austin L. Gray
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.L.G.); (Y.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Minjing Wang
- Independent Researcher, Diamond Bar, CA 91765, USA;
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.L.G.); (Y.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.L.G.); (Y.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Edina A. Wappler-Guzzetta
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.L.G.); (Y.L.); (J.W.)
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88
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Kesavan M, Turner JH. Myeloid Toxicity of Radionuclide Cancer Therapy. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2021; 37:164-172. [PMID: 34871036 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2021.0286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Emergent genomic analytic techniques in patients with cancer offer the potential to define the risk of myelo dysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute leukemia (AL) manifesting following targeted radionuclide therapy of metastatic lymphoma, neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), and prostate cancer. Characterization of the genetic profile will allow risk stratification of patients before theranostic radionuclide management of advanced cancers and offers the opportunity to minimize toxicity while preserving optimal individualized efficacy in the practice of personalized precision nuclear oncology. Our review of a single-center experience of prospective radionuclide theranostic management of metastatic non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), NETs, and castration-resistant prostate cancer (metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer [mCRPC]) over the past decade, and comparison with published studies, shows that while the risk of significant myelotoxicity is generally low, at <3%, the consequences in the small minority of patients who develop MDS or AL are substantial, and survival is poor. Timely identification of patients at heightened risk of hematologic toxic complication, using novel genomic technology before institution of radionuclide therapy, will facilitate amelioration of myelotoxicity. In current clinical practice, the minimal hematological toxicity of chemo-free theranostic management of advanced cancer is significantly less compared with newly adopted chemotherapy -immunotherapy regimens, and the financial toxicity associated with these novel agents is avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murali Kesavan
- Department of Hematology, School of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - J Harvey Turner
- Department of Hematology, School of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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89
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Yamauchi H, Nishimura K, Yoshimi A. Aberrant RNA splicing and therapeutic opportunities in cancers. Cancer Sci 2021; 113:373-381. [PMID: 34812550 PMCID: PMC8819303 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been accumulating evidence that RNA splicing is frequently dysregulated in a variety of cancers and that hotspot mutations affecting key splicing factors, SF3B1, SRSF2 and U2AF1, are commonly enriched across cancers, strongly suggesting that aberrant RNA splicing is a new class of hallmark that contributes to the initiation and/or maintenance of cancers. In parallel, some studies have demonstrated that cancer cells with global splicing alterations are dependent on the transcriptional products derived from wild‐type spliceosome for their survival, which potentially creates a therapeutic vulnerability in cancers with a mutant spliceosome. It has been c. 10 y since the frequent mutations affecting splicing factors were reported in cancers. Based on these surprising findings, there has been a growing interest in targeting altered splicing in the treatment of cancers, which has promoted a wide variety of investigations including genetic, molecular and biological studies addressing how altered splicing promotes oncogenesis and how cancers bearing alterations in splicing can be targeted therapeutically. In this mini‐review we present a concise trajectory of what has been elucidated regarding the pathogenesis of cancers with aberrant splicing, as well as the development of therapeutic strategies to target global splicing alterations in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirofumi Yamauchi
- Cancer RNA Research Unit, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuki Nishimura
- Cancer RNA Research Unit, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihide Yoshimi
- Cancer RNA Research Unit, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
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90
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Zhang B, Ding Z, Li L, Xie LK, Fan YJ, Xu YZ. Two oppositely-charged sf3b1 mutations cause defective development, impaired immune response, and aberrant selection of intronic branch sites in Drosophila. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009861. [PMID: 34723968 PMCID: PMC8559932 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
SF3B1 mutations occur in many cancers, and the highly conserved His662 residue is one of the hotspot mutation sites. To address effects on splicing and development, we constructed strains carrying point mutations at the corresponding residue His698 in Drosophila using the CRISPR-Cas9 technique. Two mutations, H698D and H698R, were selected due to their frequent presence in patients and notable opposite charges. Both the sf3b1-H698D and–H698R mutant flies exhibit developmental defects, including less egg-laying, decreased hatching rates, delayed morphogenesis and shorter lifespans. Interestingly, the H698D mutant has decreased resistance to fungal infection, while the H698R mutant shows impaired climbing ability. Consistent with these phenotypes, further analysis of RNA-seq data finds altered expression of immune response genes and changed alternative splicing of muscle and neural-related genes in the two mutants, respectively. Expression of Mef2-RB, an isoform of Mef2 gene that was downregulated due to splicing changes caused by H698R, partly rescues the climbing defects of the sf3b1-H698R mutant. Lariat sequencing reveals that the two sf3b1-H698 mutations cause aberrant selection of multiple intronic branch sites, with the H698R mutant using far upstream branch sites in the changed alternative splicing events. This study provides in vivo evidence from Drosophila that elucidates how these SF3B1 hotspot mutations alter splicing and their consequences in development and in the immune system. In the past decade, one of the important findings in the RNA splicing field has been that somatic SF3B1 mutations widely occur in many cancers. Including R625, H662, K666, K700 and E902, there are five hotspot mutation sites in the highly conserved HEAT repeats of SF3B1. Several kinds of H662 mutations have been found widely in MDS, AML, CLL and breast cancers; however, it remains unclear how these H662 mutations alter splicing and whether they have in vivo effects on development. To address these questions, in this manuscript, we first summarized the H662 mutations in human diseases and constructed two corresponding Drosophila mutant strains, sf3b1-H698D and -H698R using CRISPR-Cas9. Analyses of these two fly strains find that the two oppositely charged Sf3b1-H698 mutants are defective in development. In addition, one mutant has decreased climbing ability, whereas the other mutant has impaired immune response. Further RNA-seq allows us to find responsible genes in each mutant strain, and lariat sequencing reveals that both mutations cause aberrant selection of the intronic branch sites. Our findings provide the first in vivo evidence that Sf3b1 mutations result in defective development, and also reveal a molecular mechanism of these hotspot histidine mutations that enhance the use of cryptic branch sites to alter splicing. Importantly, we demonstrate that the H698R mutant prefers to use far upstream branch sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Zhang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shanghai, China
- RNA Institute, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Hubei, China
| | - Zhan Ding
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shanghai, China
- RNA Institute, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Hubei, China
| | - Liang Li
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shanghai, China
- RNA Institute, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Hubei, China
| | - Ling-Kun Xie
- RNA Institute, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Hubei, China
| | - Yu-Jie Fan
- RNA Institute, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Hubei, China
| | - Yong-Zhen Xu
- RNA Institute, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Hubei, China
- * E-mail:
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91
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Wadugu BA, Nonavinkere Srivatsan S, Heard A, Alberti MO, Ndonwi M, Liu J, Grieb S, Bradley J, Shao J, Ahmed T, Shirai CL, Khanna A, Fei DL, Miller CA, Graubert TA, Walter MJ. U2af1 is a haplo-essential gene required for hematopoietic cancer cell survival in mice. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:141401. [PMID: 34546980 DOI: 10.1172/jci141401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic mutations in the spliceosome gene U2AF1 are common in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes. U2AF1 mutations that code for the most common amino acid substitutions are always heterozygous, and the retained WT allele is expressed, suggesting that mutant hematopoietic cells may require the residual WT allele to be viable. We show that hematopoiesis and RNA splicing in U2af1 heterozygous knockout mice were similar to those in control mice, but that deletion of the WT allele in U2AF1(S34F) heterozygous mutant-expressing hematopoietic cells (i.e., hemizygous mutant) was lethal. These results confirm that U2AF1 mutant hematopoietic cells are dependent on the expression of WT U2AF1 for survival in vivo and that U2AF1 is a haplo-essential cancer gene. Mutant U2AF1(S34F)-expressing cells were also more sensitive to reduced expression of WT U2AF1 than nonmutant cells. Furthermore, mice transplanted with leukemia cells expressing mutant U2AF1 had significantly reduced tumor burden and improved survival after the WT U2af1 allele was deleted compared with when it was not deleted. These results suggest that selectively targeting the WT U2AF1 allele in heterozygous mutant cells could induce cancer cell death and be a therapeutic strategy for patients harboring U2AF1 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amanda Heard
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine and
| | - Michael O Alberti
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | | | - Jie Liu
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine and
| | - Sarah Grieb
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine and
| | | | - Jin Shao
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine and
| | - Tanzir Ahmed
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine and
| | | | - Ajay Khanna
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine and
| | - Dennis L Fei
- Department of Medicine, Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA.,Cancer Biology Section, Cancer Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Timothy A Graubert
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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92
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Goel H, Rahul E, Gupta I, Chopra A, Ranjan A, Gupta AK, Meena JP, Viswanathan GK, Bakhshi S, Misra A, Hussain S, Kumar R, Singh A, Rath GK, Sharma A, Mittan S, Tanwar P. Molecular and genomic landscapes in secondary & therapy related acute myeloid leukemia. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BLOOD RESEARCH 2021; 11:472-497. [PMID: 34824881 PMCID: PMC8610791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a complex, aggressive myeloid neoplasm characterized by frequent somatic mutations that influence different functional categories' genes, resulting in maturational arrest and clonal expansion. AML can arise de novo (dn-AML) or can be secondary AML (s-AML) refers to a leukemic process which may arise from an antecedent hematologic disorder (AHD-AML), mostly from a myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) or can be the result of an antecedent cytotoxic chemotherapy or radiation therapy (therapy-related AML, t-AML). Clinical and biological features in secondary and therapy-related AML are distinct from de novo AML. Secondary and therapy-related AML occurs mainly in the elderly population and responds worse to therapy with higher relapse rates due to resistance to cytotoxic chemotherapy. Over the last decade, advances in molecular genetics have disclosed the sub-clonal architecture of secondary and therapy-related AML. Recent investigations have revealed that cytogenetic abnormalities and underlying genetic aberrations (mutations) are likely to be significant factors dictating prognosis and critical impacts on treatment outcome. Secondary and therapy-related AML have a poorer outcome with adverse cytogenetic abnormalities and higher recurrences of unfavorable mutations compared to de novo AML. In this review, we present an overview of the clinical features of secondary and therapy-related AML and address the function of genetic mutations implicated in the pathogenesis of secondary leukemia. Detailed knowledge of the pathogenetic mechanisms gives an overview of new prognostic markers, including targetable mutations that will presumably lead to the designing and developing novel molecular targeted therapies for secondary and therapy-related AML. Despite significant advances in knowing the genetic aspect of secondary and therapy-related AML, its influence on the disease's pathophysiology, standard treatment prospects have not significantly evolved during the past three decades. Thus, we conclude this review by summarizing the modern and developing treatment strategies in secondary and therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harsh Goel
- Laboratory Oncology Unit, Dr.B.R.A. Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital All India Institute of Medical SciencesNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Ekta Rahul
- Laboratory Oncology Unit, Dr.B.R.A. Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital All India Institute of Medical SciencesNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Ishan Gupta
- All India Institute of Medical SciencesNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Anita Chopra
- Laboratory Oncology Unit, Dr.B.R.A. Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital All India Institute of Medical SciencesNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Amar Ranjan
- Laboratory Oncology Unit, Dr.B.R.A. Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital All India Institute of Medical SciencesNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Aditya Kumar Gupta
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences New DelhiNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Jagdish Prasad Meena
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences New DelhiNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Ganesh Kumar Viswanathan
- Department of Hematology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences New DelhiNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Sameer Bakhshi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dr.B.R.A. Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital All India Institute of Medical Sciences New DelhiNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Aroonima Misra
- National Institute of Pathology, ICMRNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Showket Hussain
- Division Of Molecular Oncology, National Institute of Cancer Prevention & Research I-7, Sector-39Noida 201301, India
| | - Ritesh Kumar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rudgers Cancer Institute of New JerseyNJ 07103, United States
| | - Archana Singh
- Department of Pathology, College of Medical Sciences, Rajasthan University of Health SciencesJaipur 302033, India
| | - GK Rath
- Department of Radiotherapy, Dr.B.R.A. Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital All India Institute of Medical Sciences New DelhiNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Ashok Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences New DelhiNew Delhi 110029, India
| | - Sandeep Mittan
- Department of Cardiology, Ichan School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital1468 Madison Avenue, New York 10028, United States
| | - Pranay Tanwar
- Laboratory Oncology Unit, Dr.B.R.A. Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital All India Institute of Medical SciencesNew Delhi 110029, India
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93
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Wheeler EC, Vora S, Mayer D, Kotini AG, Olszewska M, Park SS, Guccione E, Teruya-Feldstein J, Silverman L, Sunahara RK, Yeo GW, Papapetrou EP. Integrative RNA-omics discovers GNAS alternative splicing as a phenotypic driver of splicing factor-mutant neoplasms. Cancer Discov 2021; 12:836-855. [PMID: 34620690 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in splicing factors (SFs) are the predominant class of mutations in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), but convergent downstream disease drivers remain elusive. To identify common direct targets of mis-splicing by mutant U2AF1 and SRSF2, we performed RNA-Seq and eCLIP in human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) derived from isogenic induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models. Integrative analyses of alternative splicing and differential binding converged on a long isoform of GNAS (GNAS-L), promoted by both mutant factors. MDS population genetics, functional and biochemical analyses support that GNAS-L is a driver of MDS and encodes a hyperactive long form of the stimulatory G protein alpha subunit, Gas-L, that activates ERK/MAPK signaling. SF-mutant MDS cells have activated ERK signaling and consequently are sensitive to MEK inhibitors. Our findings highlight an unexpected and unifying mechanism by which SRSF2 and U2AF1 mutations drive oncogenesis with potential therapeutic implications for MDS and other SF-mutant neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shailee Vora
- Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
| | | | | | | | - Samuel S Park
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego
| | | | | | | | | | - Gene W Yeo
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego
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94
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A broad analysis of splicing regulation in yeast using a large library of synthetic introns. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009805. [PMID: 34570750 PMCID: PMC8496845 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA splicing is a key process in eukaryotic gene expression, in which an intron is spliced out of a pre-mRNA molecule to eventually produce a mature mRNA. Most intron-containing genes are constitutively spliced, hence efficient splicing of an intron is crucial for efficient regulation of gene expression. Here we use a large synthetic oligo library of ~20,000 variants to explore how different intronic sequence features affect splicing efficiency and mRNA expression levels in S. cerevisiae. Introns are defined by three functional sites, the 5’ donor site, the branch site, and the 3’ acceptor site. Using a combinatorial design of synthetic introns, we demonstrate how non-consensus splice site sequences in each of these sites affect splicing efficiency. We then show that S. cerevisiae splicing machinery tends to select alternative 3’ splice sites downstream of the original site, and we suggest that this tendency created a selective pressure, leading to the avoidance of cryptic splice site motifs near introns’ 3’ ends. We further use natural intronic sequences from other yeast species, whose splicing machineries have diverged to various extents, to show how intron architectures in the various species have been adapted to the organism’s splicing machinery. We suggest that the observed tendency for cryptic splicing is a result of a loss of a specific splicing factor, U2AF1. Lastly, we show that synthetic sequences containing two introns give rise to alternative RNA isoforms in S. cerevisiae, demonstrating that merely a synthetic fusion of two introns might be suffice to facilitate alternative splicing in yeast. Our study reveals novel mechanisms by which introns are shaped in evolution to allow cells to regulate their transcriptome. In addition, it provides a valuable resource to study the regulation of constitutive and alternative splicing in a model organism. RNA splicing is a process in which parts of a new pre-mRNA are spliced out of the mRNA molecule to produce eventually a mature mRNA. Those RNA segments that are spliced out are termed introns, and they are found in most genes in eukaryotic organisms. Hence regulation of this process has a major role in the control of gene expression. The budding yeast S. cerevisiae is a popular model organism for eukaryotic cell biology, but in terms of splicing it differs, as it has only few intron-containing genes. Nevertheless, this species has been used to study basic principles of splicing regulation based on its ~300 introns. Here we used the technology of a large synthetic genetic library to introduce many new intron-containing genes to the yeast genome, to explore splicing regulation at a wider scope than was possible so far. Reassuringly, our results confirm known regulatory mechanisms, and further expand our understanding of splicing regulation, specifically how the yeast splicing machinery interacts with the end of introns, and how through evolution introns have evolved to avoid unwanted misidentifications of this end. We further demonstrate the potential of the yeast splicing machinery to alternatively splice a two-intron gene, which is common in other eukaryotes but rare in yeast. Our work presents a first-of-its-kind resource for the systematic study of splicing in live cells.
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95
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Abstract
Herculean efforts by the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the National Cancer Institute, and the National Human Genome Research Institute to sequence thousands of tumors representing all major cancer types have yielded more than 700 genes that contribute to neoplastic growth when mutated, amplified, or deleted. While some of these genes (now included in the COSMIC Cancer Gene Census) encode proteins previously identified in hypothesis-driven experiments (oncogenic transcription factors, protein kinases, etc.), additional classes of cancer drivers have emerged, perhaps none more surprisingly than RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). Over 40 RBPs responsible for virtually all aspects of RNA metabolism, from synthesis to degradation, are recurrently mutated in cancer, and just over a dozen are considered major cancer drivers. This Review investigates whether and how their RNA-binding activities pertain to their oncogenic functions. Focusing on several well-characterized steps in RNA metabolism, we demonstrate that for virtually all cancer-driving RBPs, RNA processing activities are either abolished (the loss-of-function phenotype) or carried out with low fidelity (the LoFi phenotype). Conceptually, this suggests that in normal cells, RBPs act as gatekeepers maintaining proper RNA metabolism and the "balanced" proteome. From the practical standpoint, at least some LoFi phenotypes create therapeutic vulnerabilities, which are beginning to be exploited in the clinic.
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96
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Liu B, Liu Z, Chen S, Ki M, Erickson C, Reis-Filho JS, Durham BH, Chang Q, de Stanchina E, Sun Y, Rabadan R, Abdel-Wahab O, Chandarlapaty S. Mutant SF3B1 promotes AKT- and NF-κB-driven mammary tumorigenesis. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:138315. [PMID: 33031100 DOI: 10.1172/jci138315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the core RNA splicing factor SF3B1 are prevalent in leukemias and uveal melanoma, but hotspot SF3B1 mutations are also seen in epithelial malignancies such as breast cancer. Although hotspot mutations in SF3B1 alter hematopoietic differentiation, whether SF3B1 mutations contribute to epithelial cancer development and progression is unknown. Here, we identify that SF3B1 mutations in mammary epithelial and breast cancer cells induce a recurrent pattern of aberrant splicing leading to activation of AKT and NF-κB, enhanced cell migration, and accelerated tumorigenesis. Transcriptomic analysis of human cancer specimens, MMTV-cre Sf3b1K700E/WT mice, and isogenic mutant cell lines identified hundreds of aberrant 3' splice sites (3'ss) induced by mutant SF3B1. Consistently between mouse and human tumors, mutant SF3B1 promoted aberrant splicing (dependent on aberrant branchpoints as well as pyrimidines downstream of the cryptic 3'ss) and consequent suppression of PPP2R5A and MAP3K7, critical negative regulators of AKT and NF-κB. Coordinate activation of NF-κB and AKT signaling was observed in the knockin models, leading to accelerated cell migration and tumor development in combination with mutant PIK3CA but also hypersensitizing cells to AKT kinase inhibitors. These data identify hotspot mutations in SF3B1 as an important contributor to breast tumorigenesis and reveal unique vulnerabilities in cancers harboring them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liu
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Zhaoqi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China.,Program for Mathematical Genomics.,Department of Systems Biology and Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sisi Chen
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Michelle Ki
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Caroline Erickson
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Benjamin H Durham
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA.,Department of Pathology
| | - Qing Chang
- Antitumor Assessment Core and Molecular Pharmacology Department, and
| | | | - Yiwei Sun
- Program for Mathematical Genomics.,Department of Systems Biology and Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Raul Rabadan
- Program for Mathematical Genomics.,Department of Systems Biology and Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Omar Abdel-Wahab
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA.,Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA.,Weill-Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sarat Chandarlapaty
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA.,Weill-Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA.,Breast Medicine Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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97
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Kim SP, Srivatsan SN, Chavez M, Shirai CL, White BS, Ahmed T, Alberti MO, Shao J, Nunley R, White LS, Bednarski J, Pehrson JR, Walter MJ. Mutant U2AF1-induced alternative splicing of H2afy (macroH2A1) regulates B-lymphopoiesis in mice. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109626. [PMID: 34469727 PMCID: PMC8454217 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic mutations in spliceosome genes are found in ∼50% of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), a myeloid malignancy associated with low blood counts. Expression of the mutant splicing factor U2AF1(S34F) alters hematopoiesis and mRNA splicing in mice. Our understanding of the functionally relevant alternatively spliced target genes that cause hematopoietic phenotypes in vivo remains incomplete. Here, we demonstrate that reduced expression of H2afy1.1, an alternatively spliced isoform of the histone H2A variant gene H2afy, is responsible for reduced B cells in U2AF1(S34F) mice. Deletion of H2afy or expression of U2AF1(S34F) reduces expression of Ebf1 (early B cell factor 1), a key transcription factor for B cell development, and mechanistically, H2AFY is enriched at the EBF1 promoter. Induced expression of H2AFY1.1 in U2AF1(S34F) cells rescues reduced EBF1 expression and B cells numbers in vivo. Collectively, our data implicate alternative splicing of H2AFY as a contributor to lymphopenia induced by U2AF1(S34F) in mice and MDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghyun P Kim
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Sridhar N Srivatsan
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Monique Chavez
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Cara L Shirai
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Brian S White
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Tanzir Ahmed
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Michael O Alberti
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jin Shao
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Ryan Nunley
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Lynn S White
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jeff Bednarski
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - John R Pehrson
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Matthew J Walter
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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98
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Sasaki K, Nannya Y, Nakamura Y, Ichikawa M, Ogawa S, Mitani K. Essential thrombocythaemia with aggressive megakaryocytosis after myelofibrotic transformation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 26:594-600. [PMID: 34402416 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2021.1965714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among myeloproliferative neoplasms, it is often difficult to distinguish essential thrombocythaemia (ET) from prefibrotic-stage primary myelofibrosis (PMF) with thrombocytosis given their overlapping clinicopathological phenotypes. CASE PRESENTATION We encountered a 45-year-old male who was initially diagnosed with ET and eventually became transformed to secondary myelofibrosis 20 years later. Two distinct types of aberrant megakaryocytes were observed at diagnosis: one type characteristic of ET and the other type characteristic of PMF. With a proliferation in the bone marrow, aberrant megakaryocytes were infiltrated into the extramedullary organs and were even present in the thrombus were observed at autopsy. As a result of next-generation sequencing, the significant increase of variant allele frequency (VAF) of JAK2 V617F and U2AF1 S34Y mutations was observed in the bone marrow cells at the final stage. CONCLUSIONS This patient could be recognized as an atypical case of aggressive megakaryocytosis transformed from ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ko Sasaki
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Nannya
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuko Nakamura
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Motoshi Ichikawa
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Seishi Ogawa
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kinuko Mitani
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
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99
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Wheat JC, Steidl U. Gene expression at a single-molecule level: implications for myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia. Blood 2021; 138:625-636. [PMID: 34436525 PMCID: PMC8394909 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019004261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nongenetic heterogeneity, or gene expression stochasticity, is an important source of variability in biological systems. With the advent and improvement of single molecule resolution technologies, it has been shown that transcription dynamics and resultant transcript number fluctuations generate significant cell-to-cell variability that has important biological effects and may contribute substantially to both tissue homeostasis and disease. In this respect, the pathophysiology of stem cell-derived malignancies such as acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes, which has historically been studied at the ensemble level, may require reevaluation. To that end, it is our aim in this review to highlight the results of recent single-molecule, biophysical, and systems studies of gene expression dynamics, with the explicit purpose of demonstrating how the insights from these basic science studies may help inform and progress the field of leukemia biology and, ultimately, research into novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin C Wheat
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine - Montefiore Health System, Bronx, NY
| | - Ulrich Steidl
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine - Montefiore Health System, Bronx, NY
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100
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A synthetic small molecule stalls pre-mRNA splicing by promoting an early-stage U2AF2-RNA complex. Cell Chem Biol 2021; 28:1145-1157.e6. [PMID: 33689684 PMCID: PMC8380659 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2021.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulated pre-mRNA splicing is an emerging Achilles heel of cancers and myelodysplasias. To expand the currently limited portfolio of small-molecule drug leads, we screened for chemical modulators of the U2AF complex, which nucleates spliceosome assembly and is mutated in myelodysplasias. A hit compound specifically enhances RNA binding by a U2AF2 subunit. Remarkably, the compound inhibits splicing of representative substrates and stalls spliceosome assembly at the stage of U2AF function. Computational docking, together with structure-guided mutagenesis, indicates that the compound bridges the tandem U2AF2 RNA recognition motifs via hydrophobic and electrostatic moieties. Cells expressing a cancer-associated U2AF1 mutant are preferentially killed by treatment with the compound. Altogether, our results highlight the potential of trapping early spliceosome assembly as an effective pharmacological means to manipulate pre-mRNA splicing. By extension, we suggest that stabilizing assembly intermediates may offer a useful approach for small-molecule inhibition of macromolecular machines.
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