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Zhao L, Xia W, Zhang Y, Zou P, Zhu Q, Zhang R. Efficacy and Safety of Immune Checkpoint Blockades in the Treatment of Ocular Melanoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:781162. [PMID: 34938661 PMCID: PMC8685375 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.781162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim This meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint blockade for the treatment of ocular melanoma. Methods We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases up to July 2021. Effect sizes (ESs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to compare the outcomes. Efficacy outcomes included complete response (CR), partial response (PR), stable disease (SD), progressive disease (PD), objective response rate (ORR), overall survival (OS), progression free survival (PFS). Safety outcomes included adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse event (SAEs). Results A total of 16 eligible articles with 848 ocular melanoma patients were included. ICB treatment significantly improved CR (ES=0.02, 95%CI: 0.00-0.03, P=0.023), PR (ES=0.07, 95%CI: 0.05-0.09, P=0.000), SD (ES=0.31, 95%CI: 0.17-0.46, P=0.000), PD (ES=0.69, 95%CI: 0.61-0.77, P=0.000), ORR (ES=0.10, 95%CI: 0.04-0.15, P=0.000), OS (ES=9.68, 95%CI: 7.28-12.07, P=0.000) and PFS (ES=2.88, 95%CI: 2.69-3.07, P=0.000) in patients with ocular melanoma. Moreover, ICB therapies were associated with reduced AEs (ES=0.48, 95%CI: 0.30-0.67, P=0.000) and SAEs (ES=0.31, 95%CI: 0.18-0.45, P=0.000). Conclusions ICB therapy showed good efficacy and safety in treating patients with ocular melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhao
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, School of Life Science and Bio-Pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenwen Xia
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, School of Life Science and Bio-Pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medical, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Peng Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Qiwen Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, School of Life Science and Bio-Pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
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Branisteanu DC, Bogdanici CM, Branisteanu DE, Maranduca MA, Zemba M, Balta F, Branisteanu CI, Moraru AD. Uveal melanoma diagnosis and current treatment options (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1428. [PMID: 34707709 PMCID: PMC8543295 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma is a rare condition accounting for only 5% of all primary melanoma cases. Still, it is the most frequently diagnosed primary intraocular malignant tumor in adults. Almost 90% of the tumors involve the choroid and only a small percentage affects the ciliary body or the iris. There is a consistent difference in incidence between different regions with individuals of northern European descent having a significantly higher risk as compared to Hispanics, Asians, and Blacks. Among the many risk factors, mutations in the G protein subunit alpha Q (GNAQ) or G protein subunit alpha 11 (GNA11) genes and different receptors are highly suggestive. While iris melanoma can easily be noticed by the patient itself or diagnosed at a routine slit-lamp evaluation, a consistent percentage of posterior uveal tumors are incidentally diagnosed at funduscopic evaluation as they can evolve silently for years, especially if located in the periphery. Uveal melanoma classifications rely on the tumor size (thickness and basal diameter) and also on intraocular and extraocular extension. The differential diagnosis with pseudomelanomas is carried out according to the tumor aspect and position. Iris melanoma has a better prognosis and a lower mortality rate as compared to choroidal melanoma that has a much higher rate of metastasis (50% of the patients) and a subsequent limited life expectancy from 6 to 12 months. While conservative therapeutic options for the primary tumor, relying on different surgical excision techniques and/or irradiation therapies, offer good local tumor control, the treatment options for metastatic disease, although numerous, are still inadequate in preventing a fatal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daciana Elena Branisteanu
- Department of Dermatology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Minela Aida Maranduca
- Department of Physiology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Mihail Zemba
- Department of Ophthalmology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florian Balta
- Department of Ophthalmology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Andreea Dana Moraru
- Department of Ophthalmology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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Tacar SY, Selcukbiricik F, Yilmaz M, Erturk K, Murat Sarici A, Gulturk I, Ayhan M, Tural D. Nivolumab for metastatic uveal melanoma: a multicenter, retrospective study. Melanoma Res 2021; 31:449-455. [PMID: 34039945 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Systemic treatment options with proven efficacy for the treatment of metastatic uveal melanoma are limited. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of nivolumab in metastatic uveal melanoma patients. In our multi-center study, the files of patients who received nivolumab treatment with a diagnosis of metastatic uveal melanoma were retrospectively reviewed and their information was recorded. Seventeen patients were enrolledand 16 patients were evaluable for efficacy. The objective response rate (ORR) was 18% including one confirmed complete response and two confirmed partial responses. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5.8 months (95% CI, 0.03-11.57 months), and the median overall survival (OS) was 10.5 months (95% CI, 3.87-14.14 months). Significant longer OS and PFS were observed in patients with the performance status of the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG-PS) 0. Although significant longer OS was detected in patients with low median lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, no significant difference was found in PFS. Grade 1 and 2 fatigue and decreased appetite were the most common side effects associated with treatment (17%); grade 3 and 4 side effects were not observed. Immunotherapy is also emerging as a treatment option among the limited number of treatment options in metastatic uveal melanoma (mUM), but its efficacy needs to be demonstrated with prospective studies involving a larger number of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seher Yildiz Tacar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Bakirköy Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital
| | | | - Mesut Yilmaz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Bakirköy Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital
| | | | - Ahmet Murat Sarici
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University
| | - Ilkay Gulturk
- Department of Medical Oncology, Bakirköy Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital
| | - Murat Ayhan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Kartal Lütfi Kirdar Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Deniz Tural
- Department of Medical Oncology, Bakirköy Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital
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Ny L, Jespersen H, Karlsson J, Alsén S, Filges S, All-Eriksson C, Andersson B, Carneiro A, Helgadottir H, Levin M, Ljuslinder I, Olofsson Bagge R, Sah VR, Stierner U, Ståhlberg A, Ullenhag G, Nilsson LM, Nilsson JA. The PEMDAC phase 2 study of pembrolizumab and entinostat in patients with metastatic uveal melanoma. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5155. [PMID: 34453044 PMCID: PMC8397717 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25332-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Preclinical studies have suggested that epigenetic therapy could enhance immunogenicity of cancer cells. We report the results of the PEMDAC phase 2 clinical trial (n = 29; NCT02697630) where the HDAC inhibitor entinostat was combined with the PD-1 inhibitor pembrolizumab in patients with metastatic uveal melanoma (UM). The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR), and was met with an ORR of 14%. The clinical benefit rate at 18 weeks was 28%, median progression free survival was 2.1 months and the median overall survival was 13.4 months. Toxicities were manageable, and there were no treatment-related deaths. Objective responses and/or prolonged survival were seen in patients with BAP1 wildtype tumors, and in one patient with an iris melanoma that exhibited a UV signature. Longer survival also correlated with low baseline ctDNA levels or LDH. In conclusion, HDAC inhibition and anti-PD1 immunotherapy results in durable responses in a subset of patients with metastatic UM.Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT02697630 (registered 3 March 2016). EudraCT registration number: 2016-002114-50.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Ny
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Henrik Jespersen
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Oncology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Joakim Karlsson
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Samuel Alsén
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Stefan Filges
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Bengt Andersson
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ana Carneiro
- Department of Hematology Oncology and Radiation Physics, Skåne University Hospital, and Institute of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Hildur Helgadottir
- Department of Oncology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Max Levin
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Roger Olofsson Bagge
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Vasu R Sah
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Stierner
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Ståhlberg
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gustav Ullenhag
- Department of Oncology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lisa M Nilsson
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jonas A Nilsson
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
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Valasapalli S, Guddati AK. Nation-Wide Trends in Incidence-Based Mortality of Patients with Ocular Melanoma in USA: 2000 to 2018. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:4171-4176. [PMID: 34385837 PMCID: PMC8354021 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s299144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ocular and orbit melanoma is a rare subtype of melanoma for which outcomes have not been adequately reported. We have analyzed the incidence-based mortality trends of ocular and orbit melanoma over 15 years in USA. Most ocular melanomas originate from the uvea and, to a lesser extent, from the conjunctiva. Primary orbital melanoma is exceedingly rare. Methods The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was queried to find the incidence-based mortality for all patients diagnosed with ocular and orbit melanoma for the years 2000 to 2018. Results were grouped by gender and race (Caucasian/White, African American/Black, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and Asian/Pacific Islanders). A paired t-test was used to determine the statistically significant difference between various subgroups (p < 0.05). Results Incidence-based mortality has been the highest in Caucasian/White patients from 2000 to 2018, followed by African American/Black and Asian/Pacific Islander patients. American Indian/Alaskan native patients appear to have the least mortality. There was a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) in mortality between Caucasian/White patients from 2000 to 2018, and African American/Black and Asian/Pacific Islander patients. The sample size for African American/Black and American Indian/Alaskan native patients was too low to discern a meaningful trend in mortality. Overall, it appears that Caucasian males and females have a far higher and worsening incidence-based mortality compared to other races. Conclusion Ocular melanoma and orbit melanoma are rare entities that are predominantly seen in Caucasian/White patients. This study shows that incidence-based mortality has been worsening for these patients in the past two decades. These entities have a poor prognosis and have not been studied extensively in immunotherapy trials. There is a need for new clinical trials to help improve mortality rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srijan Valasapalli
- Department of Medicine, Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Achuta Kumar Guddati
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30909, USA
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Development of a Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Prognostic Score (MUMPS) for Use in Patients Receiving Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143640. [PMID: 34298857 PMCID: PMC8306971 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This is a retrospective cohort study of metastatic uveal melanoma patients. This study undertook to identify clinical characteristics that were predictive and prognostics of benefit to immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with metastatic uveal melanoma. We developed a Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Prognostic risk Score based on retrospective data that is comprised of 3 readily available clinical variables (time to metastatic diagnosis, presence of bone metastases, and LDH). Our findings demonstrated that the Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Prognostic risk Score was associated with a statistically significant association with overall survival outcomes in patients with metastatic uveal melanoma treated with ICI. There was a significant predictive association with disease control to ICI for patients with a ‘good risk’ Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Prognostic risk score. This is one of the larger analysis of clinical outcomes in metastatic uveal melanoma patients to date and could inform clinical decision-making. Abstract Metastatic uveal melanoma (mUM) is a rare disease. There are limited data on prognostic clinical factors for overall survival (OS) in patients with mUM treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Retrospective and non-randomized prospective studies have reported response rates of 0–17% for anti-PD1/L1 ± anti-CTLA4 ICI in mUM, indicating a potential benefit only in a subset of patients. This study evaluates the characteristics associated with ICI benefit in patients with mUM. We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study of patients with mUM who received anti-PD1/L1 ± anti-CTLA4 ICI between 2014–2019. Clinical and genomic characteristics were collected from a chart review. Treatment response and clinical progression were determined by physician assessment. Multivariable Cox regression models and Kaplan–Meier log-rank tests were used to assess differences in clinical progression-free survival (cPFS) and OS between groups and identify clinical variables associated with ICI outcomes. We identified 71 mUM patients who received 75 lines of ICI therapy. Of these, 54 received anti-PD1/L1 alone, and 21 received anti-PD1/L1 + anti-CTLA4. Patient characteristics were: 53% female, 48% were 65 or older, 72% received one or fewer lines of prior therapy. Within our cohort, 53% of patients had developed metastatic disease <2 years after their initial diagnosis. Bone metastases were present in 12% of patients. The median cPFS was 2.7 months, and the median OS was 10.0 months. In multivariable analyses for both cPFS and OS, the following variables were associated with a good prognosis: ≥2 years from the initial diagnosis to metastatic disease (n = 25), LDH < 1.5 × ULN (n = 45), and absence of bone metastases (n = 66). We developed a Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Prognostic Score (MUMPS). Patients were divided into 3 MUMPS groups based on the number of the above-mentioned prognostic variables: Poor prognosis (0–1), Intermediate prognosis (2) and Good prognosis (3). Good prognosis patients experienced longer cPFS (6.0 months) and OS (34.5 months) than patients with intermediate (2.3 months cPFS, 9.4 months OS) and poor prognosis disease (1.8 months cPFS, 3.9 months OS); p < 0.0001. We developed MUMPS—a prognostic score based on retrospective data that is comprised of 3 readily available clinical variables (time to metastatic diagnosis, presence of bone metastases, and LDH). This MUMPS score has a potential prognostic value. Further validation in independent datasets is warranted to determine the role of this MUMPS score in selecting ICI treatment management for mUM.
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Koch EAT, Petzold A, Wessely A, Dippel E, Gesierich A, Gutzmer R, Hassel JC, Haferkamp S, Hohberger B, Kähler KC, Knorr H, Kreuzberg N, Leiter U, Loquai C, Meier F, Meissner M, Mohr P, Pföhler C, Rahimi F, Schadendorf D, Schell B, Schlaak M, Terheyden P, Thoms KM, Schuler-Thurner B, Ugurel S, Ulrich J, Utikal J, Weichenthal M, Ziller F, Berking C, Heppt MV. Immune Checkpoint Blockade for Metastatic Uveal Melanoma: Patterns of Response and Survival According to the Presence of Hepatic and Extrahepatic Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133359. [PMID: 34283061 PMCID: PMC8268645 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since there is no standardized and effective treatment for advanced uveal melanoma (UM), the prognosis is dismal once metastases develop. Due to the availability of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in the real-world setting, the prognosis of metastatic UM has improved. However, it is unclear how the presence of hepatic and extrahepatic metastasis impacts the response and survival after ICB. METHODS A total of 178 patients with metastatic UM treated with ICB were included in this analysis. Patients were recruited from German skin cancer centers and the German national skin cancer registry (ADOReg). To investigate the impact of hepatic metastasis, two cohorts were compared: patients with liver metastasis only (cohort A, n = 55) versus those with both liver and extra-hepatic metastasis (cohort B, n = 123). Data were analyzed in both cohorts for response to treatment, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). The survival and progression probabilities were calculated with the Kaplan-Meier method. Log-rank tests, χ2 tests, and t-tests were performed to detect significant differences between both cohorts. RESULTS The median OS of the overall population was 16 months (95% CI 13.4-23.7) and the median PFS, 2.8 months (95% CI 2.5-3.0). The median OS was longer in cohort B than in cohort A (18.2 vs. 6.1 months; p = 0.071). The best objective response rate to dual ICB was 13.8% and to anti-PD-1 monotherapy 8.9% in the entire population. Patients with liver metastases only had a lower response to dual ICB, yet without significance (cohort A 8.7% vs. cohort B 16.7%; p = 0.45). Adverse events (AE) occurred in 41.6%. Severe AE were observed in 26.3% and evenly distributed between both cohorts. CONCLUSION The survival of this large cohort of patients with advanced UM was more favorable than reported in previous benchmark studies. Patients with both hepatic and extrahepatic metastasis showed more favorable survival and higher response to dual ICB than those with hepatic metastasis only.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias A. T. Koch
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.A.T.K.); (A.P.); (A.W.); (B.S.-T.); (C.B.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anne Petzold
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.A.T.K.); (A.P.); (A.W.); (B.S.-T.); (C.B.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anja Wessely
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.A.T.K.); (A.P.); (A.W.); (B.S.-T.); (C.B.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Edgar Dippel
- Department of Dermatology, Ludwigshafen Medical Center, 67059 Ludwigshafen, Germany;
| | - Anja Gesierich
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany;
| | - Ralf Gutzmer
- Skin Cancer Center Minden, Department of Dermatology, Mühlenkreiskliniken AöR, Ruhr University Bochum Campus Minden, 32423 Minden, Germany;
| | - Jessica C. Hassel
- Skin Cancer Center, Department of Dermatology and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Sebastian Haferkamp
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany;
| | - Bettina Hohberger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (B.H.); (H.K.)
| | - Katharina C. Kähler
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany; (K.C.K.); (M.W.)
| | - Harald Knorr
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (B.H.); (H.K.)
| | - Nicole Kreuzberg
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Skin Cancer Center at the Center of Integrated Oncology (CIO) Köln Bonn, University Hospital of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Ulrike Leiter
- Department of Dermatology, Center for Dermatooncology, University Hospital Tübingen, 72056 Tübingen, Germany;
| | - Carmen Loquai
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Friedegund Meier
- Skin Cancer Center at the University Cancer Centre Dresden and National Center for Tumor Diseases & Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
| | - Markus Meissner
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;
| | - Peter Mohr
- Department of Dermatology, Elbeklinikum, 21614 Buxtehude, Germany;
| | - Claudia Pföhler
- Department of Dermatology, Saarland University Medical School, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany;
| | - Farnaz Rahimi
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Munich University Hospital (LMU), 81377 Munich, Germany;
| | - Dirk Schadendorf
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (D.S.); (S.U.)
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Beatrice Schell
- Department of Dermatology, SRH Wald-Klinikum Gera, 07548 Gera, Germany;
| | - Max Schlaak
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Patrick Terheyden
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany;
| | - Kai-Martin Thoms
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
| | - Beatrice Schuler-Thurner
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.A.T.K.); (A.P.); (A.W.); (B.S.-T.); (C.B.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Selma Ugurel
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (D.S.); (S.U.)
| | - Jens Ulrich
- Department of Dermatology, Harzklinikum Dorothea Christiane Erxleben, 06484 Quedlinburg, Germany;
| | - Jochen Utikal
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 68167 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michael Weichenthal
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany; (K.C.K.); (M.W.)
| | - Fabian Ziller
- Department of Dermatology, DRK Krankenhaus Rabenstein, 09117 Chemnitz, Germany;
| | - Carola Berking
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.A.T.K.); (A.P.); (A.W.); (B.S.-T.); (C.B.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus V. Heppt
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.A.T.K.); (A.P.); (A.W.); (B.S.-T.); (C.B.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-9131-85-35747
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Orloff M. Clinical Trials in Metastatic Uveal Melanoma: Immunotherapy. Ocul Oncol Pathol 2021; 7:168-176. [PMID: 34307327 PMCID: PMC8280448 DOI: 10.1159/000513336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uveal melanoma (UM) is a rare subtype of melanoma that generally has a poor prognosis once it has metastasized. Clinical trials evaluating immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in UM have demonstrated response rates lower than those seen in cutaneous melanoma. Despite lower efficacy demonstrated in initial ICI studies, there are a number of ongoing clinical trials investigating novel immunotherapy approaches in UM. SUMMARY This review aims to summarize important ongoing clinical trials investigating immunotherapeutic approaches in UM and previous trials that have evaluated a number of immunologic interventions. A thorough clinical trial investigation was conducted through clinicaltrials.gov using the disease search terms "uveal melanoma" and "ocular melanoma," excluding non-immunotherapy-related trials. Here, we report on ICI, vaccine, adoptive T cells, and combination immunotherapy trials in UM. KEY MESSAGES There is an increasing effort in the search for new, effective therapies for this difficult-to-treat disease, with immunotherapeutic approaches being of particular interest. Increasing knowledge of UM biology and development of new biomarkers will direct future drug development and trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlana Orloff
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review recent advancements in the genetic understanding, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of uveal melanoma (UM). RECENT FINDINGS UM is a molecularly distinct melanocytic malignancy driven by mutations in GNAQ or GNA11, with mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway upregulation. Earlier diagnosis and treatment are important factors for improving life prognosis. These goals can be aided by more objective multimodal imaging risk factors for the prediction of malignant nevus transformation and novel treatment strategies such as customized radiation fields and nanoparticle therapy to reduce vision-threatening treatment side effects. The risk for metastatic disease can be reliably predicted through gene expression profiling or the Cancer Genome Atlas project classification, and combined use of clinical tumor features with molecular data allows for highly individualized patient prognosis. Patients with high-risk UM should be considered for clinical trials of adjuvant therapy to prevent metastatic disease. For patients with clinically evident metastasis, combination immunotherapy regimens, T cell-based therapies, and focal adhesion kinase inhibitors offer hope for improved clinical response rates. SUMMARY Improved understanding of UM molecular pathogenesis and clinical trials of targeted therapy for prevention and treatment of metastatic disease may improve patient survival for this challenging disease.
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Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Colitis-A Clinical Overview of Incidence, Prognostic Implications and Extension of Current Treatment Options. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040367. [PMID: 33923423 PMCID: PMC8074139 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, anti-tumor immunotherapies have witnessed a major breakthrough with the emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, the use of ICIs has also brought an era of a certain class of adverse events that differ from those of classical chemotherapies and are more reminiscent of autoimmune diseases. This article focuses exclusively on colitis as an irAE with emphasis on vulnerable patient groups, the prognostic significance of colitis, treatment, and new therapeutic approaches that may be applicable. Colitis itself is associated with a favorable oncological outcome of the underlying disease but is as well the most common irAE leading to discontinuation of therapy. Especially in vulnerable patient groups such as IBD patients and elderly patients, colitis occurs more frequently as a side effect. It is precisely in these two patient groups that side effects more often lead to discontinuation of therapy. Therefore, in addition to the current therapy of colitis through immunosuppression, the focus should also be on new forms of therapy of severe colitis, such as fecal transplantation or ileostomy creation.
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Bigot J, Lalanne AI, Lucibello F, Gueguen P, Houy A, Dayot S, Ganier O, Gilet J, Tosello J, Nemati F, Pierron G, Waterfall JJ, Barnhill R, Gardrat S, Piperno-Neumann S, Popova T, Masson V, Loew D, Mariani P, Cassoux N, Amigorena S, Rodrigues M, Alsafadi S, Stern MH, Lantz O. Splicing Patterns in SF3B1-Mutated Uveal Melanoma Generate Shared Immunogenic Tumor-Specific Neoepitopes. Cancer Discov 2021; 11:1938-1951. [PMID: 33811047 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-20-0555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Disruption of splicing patterns due to mutations of genes coding splicing factors in tumors represents a potential source of tumor neoantigens, which would be both public (shared between patients) and tumor-specific (not expressed in normal tissues). In this study, we show that mutations of the splicing factor SF3B1 in uveal melanoma generate such immunogenic neoantigens. Memory CD8+ T cells specific for these neoantigens are preferentially found in 20% of patients with uveal melanoma bearing SF3B1-mutated tumors. Single-cell analyses of neoepitope-specific T cells from the blood identified large clonal T-cell expansions, with distinct effector transcription patterns. Some of these expanded T-cell receptors are also present in the corresponding tumors. CD8+ T-cell clones specific for the neoepitopes specifically recognize and kill SF3B1-mutated tumor cells, supporting the use of this new family of neoantigens as therapeutic targets. SIGNIFICANCE: Mutations of the splicing factor SF3B1 in uveal melanoma generate shared neoantigens that are uniquely expressed by tumor cells, leading to recognition and killing by specific CD8 T cells. Mutations in splicing factors can be sources of new therapeutic strategies applicable to diverse tumors.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1861.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Bigot
- INSERM U932, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Ana I Lalanne
- Laboratoire d'immunologie clinique, Institut Curie, Paris, France.,Centre d'investigation Clinique en Biothérapie, Institut Curie (CIC-BT1428), Paris, France
| | | | - Paul Gueguen
- INSERM U932, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Alexandre Houy
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Stephane Dayot
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Ganier
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Jules Gilet
- INSERM U932, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Jimena Tosello
- INSERM U932, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Fariba Nemati
- Centre d'investigation Clinique en Biothérapie, Institut Curie (CIC-BT1428), Paris, France.,Laboratory of Preclinical Investigation, Translational Research Department, PSL Research University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | | | - Joshua J Waterfall
- INSERM U830, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France, and Department of Translational Research, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Raymond Barnhill
- Departments of Pathology and Translational Research, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Gardrat
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France.,Departments of Pathology and Translational Research, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | | | - Tatiana Popova
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Vanessa Masson
- Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse Protéomique, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Damarys Loew
- Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse Protéomique, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Pascale Mariani
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Paris, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Cassoux
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Paris, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | | | - Manuel Rodrigues
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Samar Alsafadi
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France.,Laboratory of Uveal Biology, Translational Research Department, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Marc-Henri Stern
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Lantz
- INSERM U932, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France. .,Laboratoire d'immunologie clinique, Institut Curie, Paris, France.,Centre d'investigation Clinique en Biothérapie, Institut Curie (CIC-BT1428), Paris, France
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Sander MS, Stukalin I, Vallerand IA, Goutam S, Ewanchuk BW, Meyers DE, Pabani A, Morris DG, Heng DYC, Cheng T. Evaluation of the modified immune prognostic index to prognosticate outcomes in metastatic uveal melanoma patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Cancer Med 2021; 10:2618-2626. [PMID: 33724676 PMCID: PMC8026925 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Metastatic uveal melanoma (MUM) is associated with poor survival and inferior response to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy when compared with metastatic cutaneous melanoma. Currently, prognostic biomarkers are lacking to guide treatment decisions. Patients and Methods We conducted a multicenter, retrospective cohort study using a centralized, province‐wide cancer database in Alberta, Canada. We identified 37 patients with histologically confirmed MUM who received at least one dose of single‐agent pembrolizumab or nivolumab, or combination therapy nivolumab and ipilimumab. A modified immune prognostic index (IPI), based on the previously reported lung immune prognostic index, was used to stratify patients into favorable and poor IPI groups. Survival analyses were conducted using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models, adjusting for baseline age (≥60) and ECOG performance status, to assess the associations between IPI and overall survival (OS). Time to treatment failure (TTF) was also assessed using the Kaplan–Meier method. The association between IPI and objective response rate was examined using chi‐squared tests. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between IPI and immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). Results Median OS was 15.6 (range 0.6–57.6) months with 45.9% 1‐year survival rate at a median follow‐up of 11.8 months. We found that a favorable IPI was significantly associated with OS [median 30.5 (12.0‐not reached) months in the favorable IPI group compared with 4.6 (2.1–16.0) months in the poor IPI group (p = 0.001)] (HR=4.81, 95% CI; 1.64–14.10, p = 0.004), TTF [median 5.1 (95% CI; 2.1–10.4) months in the favorable IPI group compared with 3.7 (95% CI; 1.4–6.4) months in the poor IPI group (p = 0.0191)], and irAE (HR=6.67, 95% CI; 1.32–33.69, p = 0.0220). Conclusions The modified IPI may be a useful tool in clinical practice for identifying MUM patients who are more likely to experience irAEs and realize a survival benefit from ICI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Sander
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Igor Stukalin
- Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Isabelle A Vallerand
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Section of Dermatology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Siddhartha Goutam
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Daniel E Meyers
- Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Aliyah Pabani
- Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Don G Morris
- Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Daniel Y C Heng
- Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Tina Cheng
- Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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63
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Fallico M, Raciti G, Longo A, Reibaldi M, Bonfiglio V, Russo A, Caltabiano R, Gattuso G, Falzone L, Avitabile T. Current molecular and clinical insights into uveal melanoma (Review). Int J Oncol 2021; 58:10. [PMID: 33649778 PMCID: PMC7910016 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2021.5190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) represents the most prominent primary eye cancer in adults. With an incidence of approximately 5 cases per million individuals annually in the United States, UM could be considered a relatively rare cancer. The 90-95% of UM cases arise from the choroid. Diagnosis is based mainly on a clinical examination and ancillary tests, with ocular ultrasonography being of greatest value. Differential diagnosis can prove challenging in the case of indeterminate choroidal lesions and, sometimes, monitoring for documented growth may be the proper approach. Fine needle aspiration biopsy tends to be performed with a prognostic purpose, often in combination with radiotherapy. Gene expression profiling has allowed for the grading of UMs into two classes, which feature different metastatic risks. Patients with UM require a specialized multidisciplinary management. Primary tumor treatment can be either enucleation or globe preserving. Usually, enucleation is reserved for larger tumors, while radiotherapy is preferred for small/medium melanomas. The prognosis is unfavorable due to the high mortality rate and high tendency to metastasize. Following the development of metastatic disease, the mortality rate increases to 80% within one year, due to both the absence of an effective treatment and the aggressiveness of the condition. Novel molecular studies have allowed for a better understanding of the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms involved in UM biological activity, which differs compared to skin melanomas. The most commonly mutated genes are GNAQ, GNA11 and BAP1. Research in this field could help to identify effective diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Fallico
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, I‑95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Raciti
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, I‑95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Longo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, I‑95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Reibaldi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, University of Turin, I‑10122 Turin, Italy
| | - Vincenza Bonfiglio
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, Ophthalmology Section, University of Palermo, I‑90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Russo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, I‑95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Rosario Caltabiano
- Department 'G.F. Ingrassia', Section of Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania, I‑95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gattuso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I‑95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Luca Falzone
- Epidemiology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori 'Fondazione G. Pascale', I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Teresio Avitabile
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, I‑95123 Catania, Italy
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64
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Vergara IA, Wilmott JS, Long GV, Scolyer RA. Genetic drivers of non-cutaneous melanomas: Challenges and opportunities in a heterogeneous landscape. Exp Dermatol 2021; 31:13-30. [PMID: 33455025 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14287] [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: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Non-cutaneous melanomas most frequently involve the uveal tract and mucosal membranes, including the conjunctiva. In contrast to cutaneous melanoma, they often present at an advanced clinical stage, are associated with worse clinical outcomes and show poorer responses to immunotherapy. The mutational load within most non-cutaneous melanomas reflects their lower ultraviolet light (UV) exposure. The genetic drivers within non-cutaneous melanomas are heterogeneous. Within ocular melanomas, posterior uveal tract melanomas typically harbour one of two distinct, sets of driver mutations and alterations of clinical and biological significance. In contrast to posterior uveal tract melanomas, anterior uveal tract melanomas of the iris and conjunctival melanomas frequently carry both a higher mutational burden and specific mutations linked with UV exposure. The genetic drivers in iris melanomas more closely resemble those of the posterior uveal tract, whereas conjunctival melanomas harbour similar genetic driver mutations to cutaneous melanomas. Mucosal melanomas occur in sun-shielded sites including sinonasal and oral cavities, nasopharynx, oesophagus, genitalia, anus and rectum, and their mutational landscape is frequently associated with a dominant process of spontaneous deamination and infrequent presence of UV mutation signatures. Genetic drivers of mucosal melanomas are diverse and vary with anatomic location. Further understanding of the causes of already identified recurrent molecular events in non-cutaneous melanomas, identification of additional drivers in specific subtypes, integrative multi-omics analyses and analysis of the tumor immune microenvironment will expand knowledge in this field. Furthermore, such data will likely uncover new therapeutic strategies which will lead to improved clinical outcomes in non-cutaneous melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael A Vergara
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James S Wilmott
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Georgina V Long
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard A Scolyer
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and New South Wales Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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65
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Kato J, Uhara H. Immunotherapy for advanced melanoma: current situation in Japan. Jpn J Clin Oncol 2021; 51:3-9. [PMID: 33140101 DOI: 10.1093/jjco/hyaa188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors provides long-term survival for patients with advanced melanoma. Improvements in the overall survival of advanced melanoma patients have been achieved with anti-PD-1 monotherapy and anti-PD-1+ CTLA4 combination therapy, but there are still many issues to resolve. Acral, mucosal and uveal melanoma have been less responsive to immune checkpoint inhibitors than cutaneous melanoma. For patients who have achieved a good response, it is still not known how long the anti-PD-1 therapy should be administered. Moreover, there is limited treatment for patients who relapse during or after adjuvant anti-PD-1 therapy. Here, we review the current evidence regarding the clinical effects of immunotherapy for advanced melanoma. Moreover, we review previous studies of acral, mucosal and uveal melanoma, and we discuss the recent findings regarding durable response after the cessation of anti-PD-1 therapy, and treatment options for recurrence after adjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junji Kato
- Department of Dermatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo 060-8543, Japan
| | - Hisashi Uhara
- Department of Dermatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo 060-8543, Japan
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66
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Khan S, Carvajal RD. Dual Immunological Checkpoint Blockade for Uveal Melanoma. J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:554-556. [PMID: 33417487 DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.03274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shaheer Khan
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
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67
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Hoyek S, Kourie HR, Labaki C, Antoun J. Immune checkpoint inhibitors in ocular melanomas: contrasting efficacy with cutaneous melanomas. Immunotherapy 2020; 12:1149-1152. [PMID: 33076742 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2020-0234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Hoyek
- Ophtalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hampig Raphael Kourie
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Chris Labaki
- Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Joelle Antoun
- Ophtalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Lebanon
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68
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Chua V, Mattei J, Han A, Johnston L, LiPira K, Selig SM, Carvajal RD, Aplin AE, Patel SP. The Latest on Uveal Melanoma Research and Clinical Trials: Updates from the Cure Ocular Melanoma (CURE OM) Science Meeting (2019). Clin Cancer Res 2020; 27:28-33. [PMID: 33060121 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-2536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma is a rare cancer in adults, but its treatment is one of the clinical unmet needs in the melanoma field. Metastatic disease develops in approximately 50% of patients and is associated with poor survival due to the lack of effective treatment options. It provides a paradigm for cancers that show evidence of aberrant G protein-coupled receptor signaling, tumor dormancy, and liver-selective metastatic tropism and are associated with the loss of the BAP1 tumor suppressor. At the Melanoma Research Foundation CURE OM Science Meeting at the Society for Melanoma Research Meeting held in Utah on November 20, 2019, clinicians and researchers presented findings from their studies according to three themes within uveal melanoma: (i) ongoing clinical trials, (ii) molecular determinants, and (iii) novel targets that could be translated into clinical trials. This meeting underscored the high interest in the uveal melanoma research field and the unmet need for effective treatment strategies for late-stage disease. Findings from ongoing clinical trials are promising, and multiple studies show how novel combinatorial strategies increase response rates. Novel targets and tumor vulnerabilities identified bioinformatically or through high-throughput screens also reveal new opportunities to target uveal melanoma. The future directions pursued by the uveal melanoma research field will likely have an impact on other cancer types that harbor similar genetic alterations and/or show similar biological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Chua
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jane Mattei
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Anna Han
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | | | - Richard D Carvajal
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Andrew E Aplin
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sapna P Patel
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
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69
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Targeting Epigenetic Modifications in Uveal Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155314. [PMID: 32726977 PMCID: PMC7432398 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM), the most common intraocular malignancy in adults, is a rare subset of melanoma. Despite effective primary therapy, around 50% of patients will develop the metastatic disease. Several clinical trials have been evaluated for patients with advanced UM, though outcomes remain dismal due to the lack of efficient therapies. Epigenetic dysregulation consisting of aberrant DNA methylation, histone modifications, and small non-coding RNA expression, silencing tumor suppressor genes, or activating oncogenes, have been shown to play a significant role in UM initiation and progression. Given that there is no evidence any approach improves results so far, adopting combination therapies, incorporating a new generation of epigenetic drugs targeting these alterations, may pave the way for novel promising therapeutic options. Furthermore, the fusion of effector enzymes with nuclease-deficient Cas9 (dCas9) in clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) associated protein 9 (Cas9) system equips a potent tool for locus-specific erasure or establishment of DNA methylation as well as histone modifications and, therefore, transcriptional regulation of specific genes. Both, CRISPR-dCas9 potential for driver epigenetic alterations discovery, and possibilities for their targeting in UM are highlighted in this review.
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