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Reassessment of Reliability and Reproducibility for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Subtyping. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14112571. [PMID: 35681552 PMCID: PMC9179838 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14112571] [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: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease. A proper classification system is needed to develop targetable biomarkers and guide personalized treatment in clinical practice. However, there has been no consensus on the molecular subtypes of TNBC, probably due to discrepancies in technical and computational methods chosen by different research groups. In this paper, we reassessed each major step for TNBC subtyping and provided suggestions, which promote rational workflow design and ensure reliable and reproducible results for future studies. We presented a recommended pipeline to the existing data, validated established TNBC subtypes with a larger sample size, and revealed two intermediate subtypes with prognostic significance. This work provides perspectives on issues and limitations regarding TNBC subtyping, indicating promising directions for developing targeted therapy based on the molecular characteristics of each TNBC subtype. Abstract Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease with diverse, often poor prognoses and treatment responses. In order to identify targetable biomarkers and guide personalized care, scientists have developed multiple molecular classification systems for TNBC based on transcriptomic profiling. However, there is no consensus on the molecular subtypes of TNBC, likely due to discrepancies in technical and computational methods used by different research groups. Here, we reassessed the major steps for TNBC subtyping, validated the reproducibility of established TNBC subtypes, and identified two more subtypes with a larger sample size. By comparing results from different workflows, we demonstrated the limitations of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples, as well as batch effect removal across microarray platforms. We also refined the usage of computational tools for TNBC subtyping. Furthermore, we integrated high-quality multi-institutional TNBC datasets (discovery set: n = 457; validation set: n = 165). Performing unsupervised clustering on the discovery and validation sets independently, we validated four previously discovered subtypes: luminal androgen receptor, mesenchymal, immunomodulatory, and basal-like immunosuppressed. Additionally, we identified two potential intermediate states of TNBC tumors based on their resemblance with more than one well-characterized subtype. In summary, we addressed the issues and limitations of previous TNBC subtyping through comprehensive analyses. Our results promote the rational design of future subtyping studies and provide new insights into TNBC patient stratification.
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52
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Jiang Y, Zeng Z, Xiong S, Jiang M, Huang G, Zhang C, Xi X. New Prognostic Gene Signature and Immune Escape Mechanisms of Bladder Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:775417. [PMID: 35646934 PMCID: PMC9133907 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.775417] [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: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The immune microenvironment profoundly affects tumor prognosis and therapy. The present study aimed to reveal potential immune escape mechanisms and construct a novel prognostic signature via systematic bioinformatic analysis of the bladder cancer (BLCA) immune microenvironment. Patients and Methods: The transcriptomic data and clinicopathological information for patients with BLCA were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Consensus clustering analysis based on the CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE algorithms was performed with patients with BLCA, which divided them into two clusters. Subsequently, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the two were subjected to univariate Cox and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses to identify prognostic genes, which were used to construct a prognostic model. The predictive performance of the model was verified by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and Kaplan–Meier (K-M) analyses. In addition, we analyzed the differentially altered immune cells, mutation burden, neoantigen load, and subclonal genome fraction between the two clusters to reveal the immune escape mechanism. Results: Based on the ESTIMATE and clustering analyses, patients with BLCA were classified into two heterogeneous clusters: ImmuneScoreH and ImmuneScoreL. Univariate Cox and LASSO regression analyses identified CD96 (HR = 0.83) and IBSP (HR = 1.09), which were used to construct a prognostic gene signature with significant predictive accuracy. Regarding potential immune escape mechanisms, ImmuneScoreH and ImmuneScoreL were characterized by inactivation of innate immune cell chemotaxis. In ImmuneScoreL, a low tumor antigen load might contribute to immune escape. ImmuneScoreH featured high expression of immune checkpoint molecules. Conclusion: CD96 and IBSP were considered prognostic factors for BLCA. Innate immune inactivation and a low tumor antigen load may be associated with immune escape mechanisms in both clusters. Our research complements the exploration of the immune microenvironment in BLCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Jiang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhenhao Zeng
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Situ Xiong
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ming Jiang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Gaomin Huang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chiyu Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaoqing Xi
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoqing Xi,
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53
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Tan Q, Yin S, Zhou D, Chi Y, Man X, Li H. Potential Predictive and Prognostic Value of Biomarkers Related to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:779786. [PMID: 35646659 PMCID: PMC9134495 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.779786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As an aggressive subtype of breast cancer, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with poor prognosis and lack of effective therapy, except chemotherapy. In recent years, immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint (IC) inhibition has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy in TNBC. TNBC has more tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and higher rate of mutation and programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression than other subtypes of breast cancer have. However, previous studies have shown that monotherapy has little efficacy and only some TNBC patients can benefit from immunotherapy. Therefore, it is important to identify biomarkers that can predict the efficacy of IC inhibitors (ICIs) in TNBC. Recently, various biomarkers have been extensively explored, such as PD-L1, TILs and tumor mutational burden (TMB). Clinical trials have shown that PD-L1-positive patients with advanced TNBC benefit from ICIs plus chemotherapy. However, in patients with early TNBC receiving neoadjuvant therapy, PD-L1 cannot predict the efficacy of ICIs. These inconsistent conclusions suggest that PD-L1 is the best to date but an imperfect predictive biomarker for efficacy of ICIs. Other studies have shown that advanced TNBC patients with TMB ≥10 mutations/Mb can achieve clinical benefits from pembrolizumab. TILs also have potential predictive value in TNBC. Here, we select some biomarkers related to ICIs and discuss their potential predictive and prognostic value in TNBC. We hope these biomarkers could help to identify suitable patients and realize precision immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Huihui Li
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
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54
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Bagegni NA, Davis AA, Clifton KK, Ademuyiwa FO. Targeted Treatment for High-Risk Early-Stage Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Spotlight on Pembrolizumab. BREAST CANCER (DOVE MEDICAL PRESS) 2022; 14:113-123. [PMID: 35515356 PMCID: PMC9064451 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s293597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a biologically aggressive yet heterogeneous disease that disproportionately affects younger women and women of color compared to other breast cancer subtypes. The paucity of effective targeted therapies and the prevalence of chemotherapeutic resistance in high-risk, early-stage TNBC pose significant clinical challenges. Deeper insights into the genomic and immune landscape have revealed key features of TNBC, including intrinsic genomic instability, DNA repair deficiency, and potentially an immunogenic tumor microenvironment. These advances led to landmark trials with immune checkpoint inhibitors in the advanced-stage setting, which subsequently translated into immunotherapy-based clinical trials in the early-stage setting and recent promising results. Pembrolizumab, an anti-programmed death 1 (PD-1) monoclonal antibody, was investigated in combination with platinum-, taxane- and anthracycline-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by adjuvant pembrolizumab monotherapy for patients with high-risk, early-stage TNBC in the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 KEYNOTE-522 trial. In July 2021, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted approval for pembrolizumab based on marked improvement in pathologic complete response rate and 3-year event-free survival compared to neoadjuvant chemotherapy alone. This advance immediately altered the longstanding treatment paradigm. Here, we review the impact of pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy for the treatment of patients with high-risk, early-stage TNBC, and discuss immunotherapy-related toxicity considerations, key immunomodulatory biomarkers under active investigation, and remaining clinical questions for future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nusayba A Bagegni
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in St Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Andrew A Davis
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in St Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Katherine K Clifton
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in St Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Foluso O Ademuyiwa
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in St Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
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Chaudhuri A, Kumar DN, Dehari D, Singh S, Kumar P, Bolla PK, Kumar D, Agrawal AK. Emergence of Nanotechnology as a Powerful Cavalry against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC). Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:542. [PMID: 35631368 PMCID: PMC9143332 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050542] [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: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is considered one of the un-manageable types of breast cancer, involving devoid of estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER 2) receptors. Due to their ability of recurrence and metastasis, the management of TNBC remains a mainstay challenge, despite the advancements in cancer therapies. Conventional chemotherapy remains the only treatment regimen against TNBC and suffers several limitations such as low bioavailability, systemic toxicity, less targetability, and multi-drug resistance. Although various targeted therapies have been introduced to manage the hardship of TNBC, they still experience certain limitations associated with the survival benefits. The current research thus aimed at developing and improving the strategies for effective therapy against TNBC. Such strategies involved the emergence of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles are designated as nanocavalries, loaded with various agents (drugs, genes, etc.) to battle the progression and metastasis of TNBC along with overcoming the limitations experienced by conventional chemotherapy and targeted therapy. This article documents the treatment regimens of TNBC along with their efficacy towards different subtypes of TNBC, and the various nanotechnologies employed to increase the therapeutic outcome of FDA-approved drug regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiswarya Chaudhuri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, India; (A.C.); (D.N.K.); (D.D.); (S.S.); (D.K.)
| | - Dulla Naveen Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, India; (A.C.); (D.N.K.); (D.D.); (S.S.); (D.K.)
| | - Deepa Dehari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, India; (A.C.); (D.N.K.); (D.D.); (S.S.); (D.K.)
| | - Sanjay Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, India; (A.C.); (D.N.K.); (D.D.); (S.S.); (D.K.)
- Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow 226025, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa;
| | - Pradeep Kumar Bolla
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W. University Ave, El Paso, TX 79968, USA;
| | - Dinesh Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, India; (A.C.); (D.N.K.); (D.D.); (S.S.); (D.K.)
| | - Ashish Kumar Agrawal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, India; (A.C.); (D.N.K.); (D.D.); (S.S.); (D.K.)
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56
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Barbier C, Mansour A, Ismailova A, Sarmadi F, Scarlata DA, Bouttier M, Zeitouni C, Wang C, Gleason JL, White JH. Molecular mechanisms of bifunctional vitamin D receptor agonist-histone deacetylase inhibitor hybrid molecules in triple-negative breast cancer. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6745. [PMID: 35468986 PMCID: PMC9038752 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10740-9] [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: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25D), and its analogues signal through the nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR), a ligand-regulated transcription factor, and have been extensively investigated as anticancer agents. 1,25D and its analogs have potential in combination therapies because they exhibit synergistic activities with other anticancer agents such as histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi). We have developed a series of hybrid molecules that combine HDACi within the backbone of a VDR agonist and thus represent fully integrated bifunctional molecules. They exhibit anti-tumor efficacy in reducing tumor growth and metastases in an aggressive model of triple-negative breast cancer. However, their solubility is limited by their hydrophobic diarylpentane cores. Our goals here were two-fold: (1) to improve the solubility of hybrids by introducing nitrogen into diarylpentane cores, and (2) to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying their anti-tumor efficacy by performing comparative gene expression profiling studies with 1,25D and the potent HDACi suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA). We found that substituting aryl with pyrydyl rings did not sacrifice bifunctionality and modestly improved solubility. Notably, one compound, AM-193, displayed enhanced potency as a VDR agonist and in cellular assays of cytotoxicity. RNAseq studies in triple negative breast cancer cells revealed that gene expression profiles of hybrids were very similar to that of 1,25D, as was that observed with 1,25D and SAHA combined. The effects of SAHA alone on gene expression were limited and distinct from those 1,25D or hybrids. The combined results suggest that efficacy of hybrids arises from targeting HDACs that do not have a direct role in gene regulation. Moreover, pathways analysis revealed that hybrids regulate numerous genes controlling immune cell infiltration into tumors and suppress the expression of several secreted molecules that promote breast cancer growth and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Barbier
- Departments of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ali Mansour
- Departments of Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Aiten Ismailova
- Departments of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Fatemeh Sarmadi
- Departments of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David A Scarlata
- Departments of Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Camille Zeitouni
- Departments of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Catherine Wang
- Departments of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - James L Gleason
- Departments of Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - John H White
- Departments of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Departments of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Clinical-pathologic characteristics and response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in triple-negative low Ki-67 proliferation (TNLP) breast cancers. NPJ Breast Cancer 2022; 8:51. [PMID: 35444182 PMCID: PMC9021249 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-022-00415-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) often have a high Ki-67 proliferation index and respond favorably to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) with pathologic complete response (pCR) resulting in ~40% of cases. Nevertheless, morbidity/mortality remain high, mostly due to recurrence in patients with residual disease. In contrast, the incidence and clinical features of TNBC with low proliferation (TNLP), defined as TNBC with a Ki-67 index of ≤30% remains unknown. We report 70 cases of TNLP identified at our center from 2008 to 2018, including 18 treated with NACT. TNLP tumors represent <1% of all breast cancers, and ~5-10% of TNBCs. Ninety percent of carcinomas were grade I/II and 70% were either pure apocrine or showed apocrine differentiation. Fifty cases had available immunohistochemistry results; 80%, 84%, 22%, and 20% were positive for AR, INPP4B, nestin, and SOX10, respectively. With a median follow-up of 72 months, 14% experienced recurrence, and 11% died of breast cancer. The tumor stage was prognostic. Among 39 stage-I patients, 18 (46%) received chemotherapy, but this did not impact survival. There was a trend for improved recurrence-free survival with chemotherapy in stage-II patients. Of the 18 patients treated with NACT, 2 (11%) showed pCR; these were notable for either high stromal TILs or a high mitotic count despite a low Ki-67 index. TNLPs are enriched in low to intermediate-grade carcinomas with apocrine features. Due to overall good prognosis of stage-I TNLP and the lack of clear benefit of chemotherapy, de-escalation of chemotherapy may be considered in select patients with stage-I TNLP.
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58
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Yang YS, Ren YX, Liu CL, Hao S, Xu XE, Jin X, Jiang YZ, Shao ZM. The early-stage triple-negative breast cancer landscape derives a novel prognostic signature and therapeutic target. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2022; 193:319-330. [PMID: 35334008 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-022-06537-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly heterogeneous disease. Patients with early-stage TNBCs have distinct likelihood of distant recurrence. This study aimed to develop a prognostic signature of early-stage TNBC patients to improve risk stratification. METHODS Using RNA-sequencing data, we analyzed 189 pathologically confirmed pT1-2N0M0 TNBC patients and identified 21 mRNAs that were highly expressed in tumor and related to relapse-free survival. All-subset regression program was used for constructing a 7-mRNA signature in the training set (n = 159); the accuracy and prognostic value were then validated using an independent validation set (n = 158). RESULTS Here, we profiled the transcriptome data from 189 early-stage TNBC patients along with 50 paired normal tissues. Early-stage TNBCs mainly consisted of basal-like immune-suppressed subtype and had higher homologous recombination deficiency scores. We developed a prognostic signature including seven mRNAs (ACAN, KRT5, TMEM101, LCA5, RPP40, LAGE3, CDKL2). In both the training (n = 159) and validation set (n = 158), this signature could identify patients with relatively high recurrence risks and served as an independent prognostic factor. Time-dependent receiver operating curve showed that the signature had better prognostic value than traditional clinicopathological features in both sets. Functionally, we showed that TMEM101 promoted cell proliferation and migration in vitro, which represented a potential therapeutic target. CONCLUSIONS Our 7-mRNA signature could accurately predict recurrence risks of early-stage TNBCs. This model may facilitate personalized therapy decision-making for early-stage TNBCs individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Song Yang
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, 825 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Xing Ren
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng-Lin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuang Hao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-En Xu
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Jin
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yi-Zhou Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhi-Ming Shao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China. .,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, 131 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
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Zamberlan M, Boeckx A, Muller F, Vinelli F, Ek O, Vianello C, Coart E, Shibata K, Christian A, Grespi F, Giacomello M, Struman I, Scorrano L, Herkenne S. Inhibition of the mitochondrial protein Opa1 curtails breast cancer growth. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:95. [PMID: 35279198 PMCID: PMC8917763 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02304-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mitochondrial fusion and fission proteins have been nominated as druggable targets in cancer. Whether their inhibition is efficacious in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) that almost invariably develops chemoresistance is unknown. METHODS We used a combination of bioinformatics analyses of cancer genomic databases, genetic and pharmacological Optic Atrophy 1 (OPA1) inhibition, mitochondrial function and morphology measurements, micro-RNA (miRNA) profiling and formal epistatic analyses to address the role of OPA1 in TNBC proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS We identified a signature of OPA1 upregulation in breast cancer that correlates with worse prognosis. Accordingly, OPA1 inhibition could reduce breast cancer cells proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, while OPA1 silencing did not reduce mitochondrial respiration, it increased levels of miRNAs of the 148/152 family known to inhibit tumor growth and invasiveness. Indeed, these miRNAs were epistatic to OPA1 in the regulation of TNBC cells growth and invasiveness. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that targeted inhibition of the mitochondrial fusion protein OPA1 curtails TNBC growth and nominate OPA1 as a druggable target in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Zamberlan
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58B, 35121, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Via Orus 2, 35129, Padova, Italy
| | - Amandine Boeckx
- Laboratory of molecular angiogenesis, GIGA-Research, Avenue de l'Hôpital, 1, 4020, Liège, Belgium
| | - Florian Muller
- Laboratory of molecular angiogenesis, GIGA-Research, Avenue de l'Hôpital, 1, 4020, Liège, Belgium
| | - Federica Vinelli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58B, 35121, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Via Orus 2, 35129, Padova, Italy
| | - Olivier Ek
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58B, 35121, Padova, Italy
| | - Caterina Vianello
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58B, 35121, Padova, Italy
| | - Emeline Coart
- Laboratory of molecular angiogenesis, GIGA-Research, Avenue de l'Hôpital, 1, 4020, Liège, Belgium
| | - Keitaro Shibata
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58B, 35121, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Via Orus 2, 35129, Padova, Italy
| | - Aurélie Christian
- Laboratory of molecular angiogenesis, GIGA-Research, Avenue de l'Hôpital, 1, 4020, Liège, Belgium
| | - Francesca Grespi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58B, 35121, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Via Orus 2, 35129, Padova, Italy
| | - Marta Giacomello
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58B, 35121, Padova, Italy
| | - Ingrid Struman
- Laboratory of molecular angiogenesis, GIGA-Research, Avenue de l'Hôpital, 1, 4020, Liège, Belgium
| | - Luca Scorrano
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58B, 35121, Padova, Italy.
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Via Orus 2, 35129, Padova, Italy.
| | - Stéphanie Herkenne
- Laboratory of molecular angiogenesis, GIGA-Research, Avenue de l'Hôpital, 1, 4020, Liège, Belgium.
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60
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Shi Z, Wulfkuhle J, Nowicka M, Gallagher RI, Saura C, Nuciforo PG, Calvo I, Andersen J, Passos-Coelho JL, Gil-Gil MJ, Bermejo B, Pratt DA, Ciruelos EM, Villagrasa P, Wongchenko MJ, Petricoin EF, Oliveira M, Isakoff SJ. Functional Mapping of AKT Signaling and Biomarkers of Response from the FAIRLANE Trial of Neoadjuvant Ipatasertib plus Paclitaxel for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:993-1003. [PMID: 34907082 PMCID: PMC9377742 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-2498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite extensive genomic and transcriptomic profiling, it remains unknown how signaling pathways are differentially activated and how tumors are differentially sensitized to certain perturbations. Here, we aim to characterize AKT signaling activity and its association with other genomic or IHC-based PI3K/AKT pathway biomarkers as well as the clinical activity of ipatasertib (AKT inhibitor) in the FAIRLANE trial. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN In FAIRLANE, 151 patients with early triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) were randomized 1:1 to receive paclitaxel with ipatasertib or placebo for 12 weeks prior to surgery. Adding ipatasertib did not increase pathologic complete response rate and numerically improved overall response rate by MRI. We used reverse-phase protein microarrays (RPPA) to examine the total level and/or phosphorylation states of over 100 proteins in various signaling or cell processes including PI3K/AKT and mTOR signaling. One hundred and twenty-five baseline and 127 on-treatment samples were evaluable by RPPA, with 110 paired samples at both time points. RESULTS Tumors with genomic/protein alterations in PIK3CA/AKT1/PTEN were associated with higher levels of AKT phosphorylation. In addition, phosphorylated AKT (pAKT) levels exhibited a significant association with enriched clinical benefit of ipatasertib, and identified patients who received benefit in the absence of PIK3CA/AKT1/PTEN alterations. Ipatasertib treatment led to a downregulation of AKT/mTORC1 signaling, which was more pronounced among the tumors with PIK3CA/AKT1/PTEN alterations or among the responders to the treatment. CONCLUSIONS We showed that the high baseline pAKT levels are associated with the alterations of PI3K/AKT pathway components and enriched benefit of ipatasertib in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Shi
- Department of Oncology Biomarker, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California
| | - Julia Wulfkuhle
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia
| | | | - Rosa I. Gallagher
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia
| | - Cristina Saura
- Medical Oncology Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Breast Cancer Group, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
- SOLTI Breast Cancer Research Group, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paolo G. Nuciforo
- Molecular Oncology Group, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Calvo
- Breast Cancer Unit, Centro Integral Oncologico Clara Campal (CIOCC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jay Andersen
- Medical Oncology/Hematology, Compass Oncology, Tigard, Oregon
| | | | - Miguel J. Gil-Gil
- SOLTI Breast Cancer Research Group, Barcelona, Spain
- Medical Oncology Service, Institut Català d’Oncologia, L’Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Biomédica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Begoña Bermejo
- Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Debra A. Pratt
- Texas Oncology Cancer Center, US Oncology, Austin, Texas
| | - Eva M. Ciruelos
- SOLTI Breast Cancer Research Group, Barcelona, Spain
- Medical Oncology Department, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Emanuel F. Petricoin
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia
| | - Mafalda Oliveira
- Medical Oncology Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Breast Cancer Group, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
- SOLTI Breast Cancer Research Group, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Steven J. Isakoff
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts
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Li JW, Cao YC, Zhao ZJ, Shi ZT, Duan XQ, Chang C, Chen JG. Prediction for pathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of triple-negative invasive breast carcinomas: the performance comparison between quantitative and qualitative sonographic feature analysis. Eur Radiol 2022; 32:1590-1600. [PMID: 34519862 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-021-08224-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sonographic features are associated with pathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). To predict the biological property of TNBC, the performance using quantitative high-throughput sonographic feature analysis was compared with that using qualitative feature assessment. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed ultrasound images, clinical, pathological, and immunohistochemical (IHC) data of 252 female TNBC patients. All patients were subgrouped according to the histological grade, Ki67 expression level, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) score. Qualitative sonographic feature assessment included shape, margin, posterior acoustic pattern, and calcification referring to the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS). Quantitative sonographic features were acquired based on the computer-aided radiomics analysis. Breast cancer masses were manually segmented from the surrounding breast tissues. For each ultrasound image, 1688 radiomics features of 7 feature classes were extracted. The principal component analysis (PCA), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and support vector machine (SVM) were used to determine the high-throughput radiomics features that were highly correlated to biological properties. The performance using both quantitative and qualitative sonographic features to predict biological properties of TNBC was represented by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS In the qualitative assessment, regular tumor shape, no angular or spiculated margin, posterior acoustic enhancement, and no calcification were used as the independent sonographic features for TNBC. Using the combination of these four features to predict the histological grade, Ki67, HER2, axillary lymph node metastasis (ALNM), and lymphovascular invasion (LVI), the AUC was 0.673, 0.680, 0.651, 0.587, and 0.566, respectively. The number of high-throughput features that closely correlated with biological properties was 34 for histological grade (AUC 0.942), 27 for Ki67 (AUC 0.732), 25 for HER2 (AUC 0.730), 34 for ALNM (AUC 0.804), and 34 for LVI (AUC 0.795). CONCLUSION High-throughput quantitative sonographic features are superior to traditional qualitative ultrasound features in predicting the biological behavior of TNBC. KEY POINTS • Sonographic appearances of TNBCs showed a great variety in accordance with its biological and clinical characteristics. • Both qualitative and quantitative sonographic features of TNBCs are associated with tumor biological characteristics. • The quantitative high-throughput feature analysis is superior to two-dimensional sonographic feature assessment in predicting tumor biological property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Wei Li
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No 270, Dong'an Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, No 270, Dong'an Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yu-Cheng Cao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, East China Normal University, #500 Dongchuan Rd., Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Zhi-Jin Zhao
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No 270, Dong'an Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, No 270, Dong'an Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhao-Ting Shi
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No 270, Dong'an Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, No 270, Dong'an Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiao-Qian Duan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, East China Normal University, #500 Dongchuan Rd., Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Cai Chang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No 270, Dong'an Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, No 270, Dong'an Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Jian-Gang Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, East China Normal University, #500 Dongchuan Rd., Shanghai, 200241, China.
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Bou Zerdan M, Ghorayeb T, Saliba F, Allam S, Bou Zerdan M, Yaghi M, Bilani N, Jaafar R, Nahleh Z. Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Updates on Classification and Treatment in 2021. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051253. [PMID: 35267561 PMCID: PMC8909187 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents 15 to 20% of all breast cancers in the United States. The main treatment option remains chemotherapy, despite limited efficacy. New biologic and targeted agents are increasingly emerging for the treatment of TNBC. Given the continuous advances in the field of TNBC, this review assesses the latest developments in basic characterization, subtyping, and treatment of TNBC, including novel drug developments with antibody-drug conjugates, immune checkpoint inhibitors, PARP inhibitors, and androgen receptor targeted agents. Abstract Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy affecting women. It is a highly heterogeneous disease broadly defined by the differential expression of cell surface receptors. In the United States, triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents 15 to 20% of all BC. When compared with other subtypes of BC, TNBC tends to present in younger women, and has a higher mortality rate of 40% in advanced stages within the first 5 years after diagnosis. TNBC has historically had limited treatment options when compared to other types of BC. The mainstay of treatment for TNBC remains cytotoxic chemotherapy despite the emergence of new biologic and targeted agents. Defining the specific tumor molecular profile including PDL-1 and androgen receptor testing is expanding treatment options in the clinical setting. Identifying more targetable, novel biomarkers that may better define therapeutic targets or prognostic markers is currently underway. TNBC nomenclature is expected to be updated in favor of other nomenclature which would help direct therapy, and further redefine TNBC’s heterogeneity. Given the continuous advances in the field of TNBC, this review assesses the latest developments in basic characterization, subtyping, and treatment of TNBC, including novel drug developments with antibody-drug conjugates, immune checkpoint inhibitors, PARP inhibitors and androgen receptor targeted agents. Future trials are necessary in the face of these innovations to further support the use of new therapies in TNBC and the detection of the appropriate biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maroun Bou Zerdan
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Maroone Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL 33331, USA; (M.B.Z.); (M.Y.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Tala Ghorayeb
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Texas, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Fares Saliba
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh 1200, Lebanon;
| | - Sabine Allam
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Balamand, Beirut 11 00 2807, Lebanon;
| | - Morgan Bou Zerdan
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon;
| | - Marita Yaghi
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Maroone Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL 33331, USA; (M.B.Z.); (M.Y.)
| | - Nadeem Bilani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Rola Jaafar
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut 11097 2020, Lebanon;
| | - Zeina Nahleh
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Maroone Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL 33331, USA; (M.B.Z.); (M.Y.)
- Correspondence:
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Messaoudi S, Al Sharhan N, Alharthi B, Babu S, Alsaleh A, Alasiri A, Assidi M, Buhmeida A, Almawi W. Detection of genetic mutations in patients with breast cancer from Saudi Arabia using Ion AmpliSeq™ Cancer Hotspot Panel v.2.0. Biomed Rep 2022; 16:26. [PMID: 35251613 PMCID: PMC8889543 DOI: 10.3892/br.2022.1509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Next-Generation Sequencing allows for quick and precise sequencing of multiple genes concurrently. Recently, this technology has been employed for the identification of novel gene mutations responsible for disease manifestation among breast cancer (BC) patients, the most common type of cancer amongst Arabian women, and the major cause of disease-associated death in women worldwide. Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood of 32 Saudi Arabian BC patients with histologically confirmed invasive BC stages I-III and IV, as well from 32 healthy Saudi Arabian women using a QIAamp® DNA Mini Kit. The isolated DNA was quantified using a Qubit™ dsDNA BR Assay Kit with a Qubit 2.0 Fluorometer. Ion semiconductor sequencing technology with an Ion S5 System and AmpliSeq™ Cancer Hotspot Panel v2 were utilized to analyze ~2,800 mutations described in the Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer from 50 oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Ion Reporter Software v.5.6 was used to evaluate the genomic alterations in all the samples after alignment to the hg19 human reference genome. The results showed that out of the 50 genes, 26 mutations, including 17 (65%) missense point mutations (single nucleotide variants), and 9 (35%) frameshift (insertion/deletion) mutations, were identified in 11 genes across the cohort in 61 samples (95%). Mutations were predominantly focused on two genes, PIK3CA and TP53, in the BC genomes of the sample set. PIK3CA mutation, c.1173A>G located in exon 9, was identified in 15 patients (46.9%). The TP53 mutations detected were a missense mutation (c.215C>G) in 26 patients (86.70%) and 1 frameshift mutation (c.215_216insG) in 1 patient (3.33%), located within exon 3 and 5, respectively. This study revealed specific mutation profiles for every BC patient, Thus, the results showed that Ion Torrent DNA Sequencing technology may be a possible diagnostic and prognostic method for developing personalized therapy based on the patient's individual BC genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safia Messaoudi
- Department of Forensic Science, Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, Riyadh 11452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nourah Al Sharhan
- Department of Forensic Science, Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, Riyadh 11452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bandar Alharthi
- Department of Surgery, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh 12231, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saranya Babu
- Department of Forensic Science, Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, Riyadh 11452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abrar Alsaleh
- Department of Forensic Science, Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, Riyadh 11452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alanoud Alasiri
- Department of Forensic Science, Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, Riyadh 11452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mourad Assidi
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelbaset Buhmeida
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wassim Almawi
- Faculty of Sciences, El‑Manar University, 1068 Tunis, Tunisia
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Li Y, Kong X, Wang Z, Xuan L. Recent advances of transcriptomics and proteomics in triple-negative breast cancer prognosis assessment. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:1351-1362. [PMID: 35150062 PMCID: PMC8899180 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17124] [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: 09/05/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a heterogeneous tumour that lacks the expression of oestrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), is often characterized by aggressiveness and tends to recur or metastasize. TNBC lacks therapeutic targets compared with other subtypes and is not sensitive to endocrine therapy or targeted therapy except chemotherapy. Therefore, identifying the prognostic characteristics and valid therapeutic targets of TNBC could facilitate early personalized treatment. Due to the rapid development of various technologies, researchers are increasingly focusing on integrating 'big data' and biological systems, which is referred to as 'omics', as a means of resolving it. Transcriptomics and proteomics analyses play an essential role in exploring prospective biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for triple-negative breast cancers, which provides a powerful engine for TNBC's therapeutic discovery when combined with complementary information. Here, we review the recent progress of TNBC research in transcriptomics and proteomics to identify possible therapeutic goals and improve the survival of patients with triple-negative breast cancer. Also, researchers may benefit from this article to catalyse further analysis and investigation to decipher the global picture of TNBC cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Li
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyi Kong
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongzhao Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lixue Xuan
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Powrózek T, Ochieng Otieno M. Blood Circulating Non-Coding RNAs for the Clinical Management of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:803. [PMID: 35159070 PMCID: PMC8833777 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030803] [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: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer, and is related to unfavorable prognosis and limited treatment strategies. Currently, there is a lack of reliable biomarkers allowing for the clinical management of TNBC. This is probably caused by a complex molecular background, leading to the development and establishment of a unique tumor phenotype. Recent studies have reported non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) not only as the most promising class of molecular agents with a high applicability to manage human cancers, including TNBC, but also as robust and non-invasive biomarkers that are able to be monitored in blood circulation, with the application of liquid biopsy. There is a lack of papers discussing the role of blood-circulating ncRNAs as diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic biomarkers for TNBC. In this paper, we summarized the available literature reports on the utility of blood-circulating ncRNAs for TNBC management. Additionally, we supplemented this review by bioinformatics analysis, for better understanding of the role of ncRNAs' machinery in the development of a unique TNBC phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Powrózek
- Department of Human Physiology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Michael Ochieng Otieno
- Haematological Malignancies H12O Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
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Wan D, Wang S, Xu Z, Zan X, Liu F, Han Y, Jiang M, Wu A, Zhi Q. PRKAR2A-derived circular RNAs promote the malignant transformation of colitis and distinguish patients with colitis-associated colorectal cancer. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e683. [PMID: 35184406 PMCID: PMC8858608 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging studies have proved that colonic inflammation caused by refractory inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can initiate the colitis-associated cancer (CAC), but the transition from inflammation to carcinoma is still largely unknown. METHODS In this study, mouse colitis and CAC models were established, and the RNA-seq by circRNA microarray was employed to identify the differentially expressed circRNAs and mRNAs in different comparisons (DSS vs. NC and AOM/DSS vs. DSS). The bioinformatics analyses were used to search the common characteristics in mouse colitis and CAC. RESULTS The K-means clustering algorithm packaged these differential expressed circRNAs into subgroup analysis, and the data strongly implied that mmu_circ_0001109 closely correlated to the pro-inflammatory signals, while mmu_circ_0001845 was significantly associated with the Wnt signalling pathway. Our subsequent data in vivo and in vitro confirmed that mmu_circ_0001109 could exacerbate the colitis by up-regulating the Jak-STAT3 and NF-kappa B signalling pathways, and mmu_circ_0001845 promoted the CAC transformation through the Wnt signalling pathway. By RNA blasting between mice and humans, the human RTEL1- and PRKAR2A-derived circRNAs, which might be considered as homeotic circRNAs of mmu_circ_0001109 and mmu_circ_0001845, respectively, were identified. The clinical data revealed that RTEL1-derived circRNAs had no clinical significance in human IBD and CAC. However, three PRKAR2A-derived circRNAs, which had the high RNA similarities to mmu_circ_0001845, were remarkably up-regulated in CAC tissue samples and promoted the transition from colitis to CAC. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggested that these human PRKAR2A-derived circRNAs could be novel candidates for distinguishing CAC patients and predicted the prognosis of CAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiwei Wan
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Sentai Wang
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Zhihua Xu
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Xinquan Zan
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of GastroenterologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Ye Han
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Min Jiang
- Department of OncologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Airong Wu
- Department of GastroenterologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Qiaoming Zhi
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
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Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) encompasses a heterogeneous group of fundamentally different diseases with different histologic, genomic, and immunologic profiles, which are aggregated under this term because of their lack of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 expression. Massively parallel sequencing and other omics technologies have demonstrated the level of heterogeneity in TNBCs and shed light into the pathogenesis of this therapeutically challenging entity in breast cancer. In this review, we discuss the histologic and molecular classifications of TNBC, the genomic alterations these different tumor types harbor, and the potential impact of these alterations on the pathogenesis of these tumors. We also explore the role of the tumor microenvironment in the biology of TNBCs and its potential impact on therapeutic response. Dissecting the biology and understanding the therapeutic dependencies of each TNBC subtype will be essential to delivering on the promise of precision medicine for patients with triple-negative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Derakhshan
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA;
| | - Jorge S Reis-Filho
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA;
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Hao KJ, Jia X, Dai WT, Huo ZM, Zhang HQ, Liu JW, Wang XB. Mapping Intellectual Structures and Research Hotspots of Triple Negative Breast Cancer: A Bibliometric Analysis. Front Oncol 2022; 11:689553. [PMID: 35047380 PMCID: PMC8763010 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.689553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly heterogeneous breast cancer subtype with a poor prognosis due to its extremely aggressive nature and lack of effective treatment options. This study aims to summarize the current hotspots of TNBC research and evaluate the TNBC research trends, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Methods Scientific publications of TNBC-related studies from January 1, 2010 to October 17, 2020 were obtained from the Web of Science database. The BICOMB software was used to obtain the high-frequency keywords layout. The gCLUTO was used to produce a biclustering analysis on the binary matrix of word-paper. The co-occurrence and collaboration analysis between authors, countries, institutions, and keywords were performed by VOSviewer software. Keyword burst detection was performed by CiteSpace. Results A total of 12,429 articles related to TNBC were identified. During 2010-2020, the most productive country/region and institution in TNBC field was the USA and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, respectively. Cancer Research, Journal of Clinical Oncology, and Annals of Oncology were the first three periodicals with maximum publications in TNBC research. Eight research hotspots of TNBC were identified by co-word analysis. In the core hotspots, research on neoadjuvant chemotherapy, paclitaxel therapy, and molecular typing of TNBC is relatively mature. Research on immunotherapy and PARP inhibitor for TNBC is not yet mature but is the current focus of this field. Burst detection of keywords showed that studies on TNBC proteins and receptors, immunotherapy, target, and tumor cell migration showed bursts in recent three years. Conclusion The current study revealed that TNBC studies are growing. Attention should be paid to the latest hotspots, such as immunotherapy, PARP inhibitors, target, and TNBC proteins and receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Jun Hao
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiao Jia
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Wen-Ting Dai
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ze-Min Huo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Hua-Qiang Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jing-Wei Liu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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St-Denis-Bissonnette F, Khoury R, Mediratta K, El-Sahli S, Wang L, Lavoie JR. Applications of Extracellular Vesicles in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:451. [PMID: 35053616 PMCID: PMC8773485 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive and refractory subtype of breast cancer, often occurring in younger patients with poor clinical prognosis. Given the current lack of specific targets for effective intervention, the development of better treatment strategies remains an unmet medical need. Over the last decade, the field of extracellular vesicles (EVs) has grown tremendously, offering immense potential for clinical diagnosis/prognosis and therapeutic applications. While TNBC-EVs have been shown to play an important role in tumorigenesis, chemoresistance and metastasis, they could be repurposed as potential biomarkers for TNBC diagnosis and prognosis. Furthermore, EVs from various cell types can be utilized as nanoscale drug delivery systems (NDDS) for TNBC treatment. Remarkably, EVs generated from specific immune cell subsets have been shown to delay solid tumour growth and reduce tumour burden, suggesting a new immunotherapy approach for TNBC. Intrinsically, EVs can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which holds great potential to treat the brain metastases diagnosed in one third of TNBC patients that remains a substantial clinical challenge. In this review, we present the most recent applications of EVs in TNBC as diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers, nanoscale drug delivery systems and immunotherapeutic agents, as well as discuss the associated challenges and future directions of EVs in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic St-Denis-Bissonnette
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Biologics Evaluation, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Rachil Khoury
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Karan Mediratta
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Sara El-Sahli
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Lisheng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Jessie R. Lavoie
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Biologics Evaluation, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
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Yoo TK, Kang J, Lee A, Chae BJ. A triple-negative breast cancer surrogate subtype classification that correlates with gene expression subtypes. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2022; 191:599-610. [PMID: 35018542 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06437-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study developed a triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) surrogate subtype classification that represents TNBC subtypes based on the Vanderbilt subtype classification. METHODS Patients who underwent primary curative surgery for TNBC were included. Representative FFPE blocks were used for gene expression analysis and tissue microarray construction for immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. The Vanderbilt subtypes were re-classified into four groups: basal-like (BL), mesenchymal-like (M), immunomodulatory (IM) and luminal androgen receptor (LAR) subtype. Classification and regression tree (CART) modeling was applied to develop a surrogate subtype classification. RESULTS A total of 145 patients were included. The study cohort was allocated to the Vanderbilt 4 subtypes as LAR (n = 22, 15.2%), IM (n = 32, 22.1%), M (n = 38, 26.2%), BL (n = 25, 17.2%) and unclassified (n = 28, 19.3%). After excluding nine (6.2%) patients due to poor IHC staining quality, CART modeling was performed. TNBC surrogate subtypes were defined as follows: LAR subtype, androgen receptor Allred score 8; IM subtype, LAR-negative with a tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) score > 70%; M subtype, LAR-negative with a TIL score < 20%; BL subtype, LAR-negative with a TIL score 20-70% and diffuse, strong p16 staining. The study cohort was classified by the surrogate subtypes as LAR (n = 26, 17.9%), IM (n = 21, 14.5%), M (n = 44, 30.3%), BL1 (n = 27, 18.6%) and unclassified (n = 18, 12.4%). Surrogate subtypes predicted TNBC Vanderbilt 4 subtypes with an accuracy of 0.708. CONCLUSION We have developed a TNBC surrogate subtype classification that correlates with the Vanderbilt subtype. It is a practical and accessible diagnostic test that can be easily applied in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Kyung Yoo
- Department of Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-Daero, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea.,Cancer Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-Daero, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Kang
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-Daero, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Awon Lee
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-Daero, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Joo Chae
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University, 81 Irwon-Ro, Gangnam-Gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea.
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Shen M, Wei Y, Kim H, Wan L, Jiang YZ, Hang X, Raba M, Remiszewski S, Rowicki M, Wu CG, Wu S, Zhang L, Lu X, Yuan M, Smith HA, Zheng A, Bertino J, Jin JF, Xing Y, Shao ZM, Kang Y. Small-molecule inhibitors that disrupt the MTDH-SND1 complex suppress breast cancer progression and metastasis. NATURE CANCER 2022; 3:43-59. [PMID: 35121987 PMCID: PMC8818087 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-021-00279-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer is a leading health burden worldwide. Previous studies have shown that metadherin (MTDH) promotes breast cancer initiation, metastasis and therapy resistance; however, the therapeutic potential of targeting MTDH remains largely unexplored. Here, we used genetically modified mice and demonstrate that genetic ablation of Mtdh inhibits breast cancer development through disrupting the interaction with staphylococcal nuclease domain-containing 1 (SND1), which is required to sustain breast cancer progression in established tumors. We performed a small-molecule compound screening to identify a class of specific inhibitors that disrupts the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between MTDH and SND1 and show that our lead candidate compounds C26-A2 and C26-A6 suppressed tumor growth and metastasis and enhanced chemotherapy sensitivity in preclinical models of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Our results demonstrate a significant therapeutic potential in targeting the MTDH-SND1 complex and identify a new class of therapeutic agents for metastatic breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhong Shen
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Yong Wei
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Hahn Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA,Princeton University Small Molecule Screening Center, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Liling Wan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Yi-Zhou Jiang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, P.R. China
| | - Xiang Hang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | | | | | - Michelle Rowicki
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Cheng-Guo Wu
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Songyang Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, P.R. China
| | - Lanjing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center of Princeton, Plainsboro, New Jersey; and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Xin Lu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Min Yuan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Heath A. Smith
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Aiping Zheng
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Joseph Bertino
- Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) Shared Resource, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA,Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - John F. Jin
- Firebrand Therapeutics, 174 Nassaue Street, #331, Princeton, NJ, 08542, USA
| | - Yongna Xing
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Zhi-Ming Shao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, P.R. China
| | - Yibin Kang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA,Cancer Metabolism and Growth Program, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, 08903, USA,Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Princeton Branch, Princeton, USA,Correspondence: Yibin Kang, Ph.D., Department of Molecular Biology, Washington Road, LTL 255, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, Phone: (609) 258-8834; Fax: (609) 258-2340,
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Kanugo A, Gautam RK, Kamal MA. Recent advances of nanotechnology in the diagnosis and therapy of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2021; 23:1581-1595. [PMID: 34967294 DOI: 10.2174/1389201023666211230113658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of advanced treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the utmost need of an era. TNBC is recognized as the most aggressive, metastatic cancer and the leading cause of mortality in females worldwide. The lack of expression of triple receptors namely, estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal receptor2 defined TNBC. OBJECTIVE The current review introduced the novel biomarkers such as miRNA and family, PD1, EGFR, VEGF, TILs, P53, AR and PI3K, etc. contributed significantly to the prognosis and diagnosis of TNBC. Once diagnosed the utilization advanced approaches available for TNBC because of the limitations of chemotherapy. Novel approaches include lipid-based (liposomes, SLN, NLC, and SNEDDS), polymer-based (micelle, nanoparticles, dendrimers, and quantum dots), advanced nanocarriers such as (exosomes, antibody and peptide-drug conjugates), carbon-based nanocarriers (Carbon nanotubes, and graphene oxide). Lipid-based delivery is used for excellent carriers for hydrophobic drugs, biocompatibility, and lesser systemic toxicities than chemotherapeutic agents. Polymer-based approaches are preferred over lipids for providing longer circulation time, nanosize, high loading efficiency, high linking; avoiding the expulsion of drugs, targeted action, diagnostic and biosensing abilities. Advanced approaches like exosomes, conjugated moieties are preferred over polymeric for possessing potency, high penetrability, biomarkers, and avoiding the toxicity of tissues. Carbon-based gained wide applicability for their unique properties like a versatile carrier, prognostic, diagnostic, sensing, photodynamic, and photothermal characteristics. CONCLUSION The survival rate can be increased by utilizing several kinds of biomarkers. The advanced approaches can also be significantly useful in the prognosis and theranostic of triple-negative breast cancer. One of the biggest successes in treating with nanotechnology-based approaches is the marked reduction of systemic toxicity with high therapeutic effectiveness compared with chemotherapy, surgery, etc. The requirements such as prompt diagnosis, longer circulation time, high efficiency, and high potency, can be fulfilled with these nanocarriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Kanugo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, SVKM NMIMS School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, Shirpur, Dhule, India
| | - Rupesh K Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, MM School of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Sadopur-Ambala (Haryana) India
| | - Mohammad Amjad Kamal
- West China School of Nursing / Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P. O. Box 80216, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Enzymoics, 7 Peterlee Place, Hebersham, NSW 2770; Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Australia
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Tian T, Zhao Y, Zheng J, Jin S, Liu Z, Wang T. Circular RNA: A potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarker for human triple-negative breast cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 26:63-80. [PMID: 34513294 PMCID: PMC8411013 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which is the most malignant subtype of breast cancer (BC), accounts for 10%–20% of all BC cases. TNBC, which occurs more frequently in young women, is characterized by high rates of cell proliferation and metastasis and poor prognosis. Chemotherapy is the primary systemic therapeutic strategy for TNBC. However, chemotherapy is largely unsuccessful, and effective targeted therapies for TNBC have not been established. Therefore, it is a matter of great urgency to identify precise molecular targets for the promising prognosis of patients with TNBC. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), which are a type of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), are abundantly expressed in the eukaryotic cells and exhibit diverse cellular functions. The roles of circRNAs are to sponge microRNA or RNA-binding proteins, regulate gene expression, and serve as templates for translation. Here, we review the current findings on the potential of circRNAs as a diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarker for TNBC. However, further studies are essential to elucidate the functions of circRNAs in TNBC. This review also discusses the current limitations and future directions of TNBC-associated circRNAs, which can facilitate the translation of experimental research into clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Tian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Yangzhi Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jingying Zheng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Shunzi Jin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhongshan Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Tiejun Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
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SMARCA4 Depletion Induces Cisplatin Resistance by Activating YAP1-Mediated Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215474. [PMID: 34771636 PMCID: PMC8582548 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215474] [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: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary SMARCA4 mutations were over-representative in cisplatin resistance and metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Additionally, SMARCA4 inactivation induced the mesenchymal-like subtype TNBC. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathways were activated in SMARCA4 inactivation samples of both SMARCA4 knockout cell lines and TNBC patients. In SMARCA4 knockout cells, the YAP1 inhibitor verteporfin suppressed YAP1 target genes. This study depicts the clinical importance of SMARCA4 depletion in TNBC and suggests YAP/TAZ as a novel target for cisplatin-resistant patients. Abstract The role of SMARCA4, an ATPase subunit of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, in genomic organization is well studied in various cancer types. However, its oncogenic role and therapeutic implications are relatively unknown in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We investigated the clinical implication and downstream regulation induced by SMARCA4 inactivation using large-scale genome and transcriptome profiles. Additionally, SMARCA4 was knocked out in MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 using CRISPR/Cas9 to identify gene regulation and a targetable pathway. First, we observed an increase in SMARCA4 mutations in cisplatin resistance and metastasis in TNBC patients. Its inactivation was associated with the mesenchymal-like (MSL) subtype. Gene expression analysis showed that the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway was activated in SMARCA4-deficient patients. Next, the Hippo pathway was activated in the SMARCA4 inactivation group, as evidenced by the higher CTNNB1, TGF-β, and YAP1 oncogene signature scores. In SMARCA4 knockout cells, EMT was upregulated, and the cell line transcriptome changed from the SL to the MSL subtype. SMARCA4 knockout cells showed cisplatin resistance and Hippo-YAP/TAZ target gene activation. The YAP1 inhibitor verteporfin suppressed the expression of YAP1 target genes, and decreased cell viability and invasiveness on SMARCA4 knockout cells. SMARCA4 inactivation in TNBC endowed the resistance to cisplatin via EMT activation. The YAP1 inhibitor could become a novel strategy for patients with SMARCA4-inactivated TNBC.
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Bissanum R, Chaichulee S, Kamolphiwong R, Navakanitworakul R, Kanokwiroon K. Molecular Classification Models for Triple Negative Breast Cancer Subtype Using Machine Learning. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11090881. [PMID: 34575658 PMCID: PMC8472680 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11090881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacks well-defined molecular targets and is highly heterogenous, making treatment challenging. Using gene expression analysis, TNBC has been classified into four different subtypes: basal-like immune-activated (BLIA), basal-like immune-suppressed (BLIS), mesenchymal (MES), and luminal androgen receptor (LAR). However, there is currently no standardized method for classifying TNBC subtypes. We attempted to define a gene signature for each subtype, and to develop a classification method based on machine learning (ML) for TNBC subtyping. In these experiments, gene expression microarray data for TNBC patients were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes unique to 198 known TNBC cases were identified and selected as a training gene set to train in seven different classification models. We produced a training set consisting of 719 DEGs selected from uniquely expressed genes of all four subtypes. The highest average accuracy of classification of the BLIA, BLIS, MES, and LAR subtypes was achieved by the SVM algorithm (accuracy 95–98.8%; AUC 0.99–1.00). For model validation, we used 334 samples of unknown TNBC subtypes, of which 97 (29.04%), 73 (21.86%), 39 (11.68%) and 59 (17.66%) were predicted to be BLIA, BLIS, MES, and LAR, respectively. However, 66 TNBC samples (19.76%) could not be assigned to any subtype. These samples contained only three upregulated genes (EN1, PROM1, and CCL2). Each TNBC subtype had a unique gene expression pattern, which was confirmed by identification of DEGs and pathway analysis. These results indicated that our training gene set was suitable for development of classification models, and that the SVM algorithm could classify TNBC into four unique subtypes. Accurate and consistent classification of the TNBC subtypes is essential for personalized treatment and prognosis of TNBC.
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Wu SY, Xiao Y, Wei JL, Xu XE, Jin X, Hu X, Li DQ, Jiang YZ, Shao ZM. MYC suppresses STING-dependent innate immunity by transcriptionally upregulating DNMT1 in triple-negative breast cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-002528. [PMID: 34321275 PMCID: PMC8320259 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-002528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer and lacks definite treatment targets. Tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) heterogeneity has a profound impact on the immunotherapy response. Tumors with non-inflamed TIME derive limited benefit from immunotherapy. However, what drives the formation of the non-inflamed TIME in TNBC remains unclear. Methods Using our multiomics database of TNBC, we conducted an analysis to explore the key genomic events driving the formation of the non-inflamed TIME in TNBC. In vitro and in vivo studies further revealed potential mechanisms and the efficacy of combination treatment with immunotherapy. Results With transcriptomic and genomic data, we systematically analyzed the TIME of TNBC and revealed that the classical basal-like subtype of TNBC consisted of two distinct microenvironment phenotypes, defined as the ‘inflamed’ and ‘non-inflamed’ subtypes. We performed further screening and demonstrated that MYC amplification and overexpression led to low immune infiltration and cytolytic activity in TIME. Mechanistically, MYC bound to DNMT1 promoter and activated DNMT1 transcription in TNBC cells, thus suppressing the Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-STING pathway via an epigenetic regulatory way. In MYC-overexpressing TNBC, decitabine, an Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, converted tumors from non-inflamed to inflamed tumors by enhancing T cell infiltration. Furthermore, the combination of decitabine with programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitor reversed T cell exhaustion and improved T cell function in mouse models, which elicited potent antitumor activity in MYC-overexpressing TNBC. Conclusions Our work elucidates that the classic oncogene MYC induces immune evasion by repressing innate immunity. Furthermore, we provide a rationale for combining DNA methyltransferase inhibition with immunotherapy for the treatment of MYC-overexpressing TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Yu Wu
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin-Li Wei
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-En Xu
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Jin
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Hu
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Da-Qiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Zhou Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China .,Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi-Ming Shao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China .,Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Hossain F, Majumder S, David J, Miele L. Precision Medicine and Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Current Landscape and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153739. [PMID: 34359640 PMCID: PMC8345034 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The implementation of precision medicine will revolutionize cancer treatment paradigms. Notably, this goal is not far from reality: genetically similar cancers can be treated similarly. The heterogeneous nature of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) made it a suitable candidate to practice precision medicine. Using TNBC molecular subtyping and genomic profiling, a precision medicine-based clinical trial is ongoing. This review summarizes the current landscape and future directions of precision medicine and TNBC. Abstract Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive and heterogeneous subtype of breast cancer associated with a high recurrence and metastasis rate that affects African-American women disproportionately. The recent approval of targeted therapies for small subgroups of TNBC patients by the US ‘Food and Drug Administration’ is a promising development. The advancement of next-generation sequencing, particularly somatic exome panels, has raised hopes for more individualized treatment plans. However, the use of precision medicine for TNBC is a work in progress. This review will discuss the potential benefits and challenges of precision medicine for TNBC. A recent clinical trial designed to target TNBC patients based on their subtype-specific classification shows promise. Yet, tumor heterogeneity and sub-clonal evolution in primary and metastatic TNBC remain a challenge for oncologists to design adaptive precision medicine-based treatment plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fokhrul Hossain
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.M.); (L.M.)
- Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Samarpan Majumder
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.M.); (L.M.)
- Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Justin David
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.M.); (L.M.)
- Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
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Zhou Y, Yue Y, Fan S, Jia Q, Ding X. Advances in Pathophysiology of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: The Potential of lncRNAs for Clinical Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prognostic Monitoring. Mol Biotechnol 2021; 63:1093-1102. [PMID: 34245439 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-021-00368-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in several gene expression regulation processes, including epigenetic regulation, transcriptional regulation, post-transcriptional regulation, and translation regulation. It also plays a crucial role in the regulation of several characteristics of cancer biology, and the dysregulation of lncRNA expression in cancer may be part of the cause of cancer progression. Meanwhile, more and more studies are trying to determine the association between lncRNA expression and TNBC, as well as the functional role and molecular mechanism of the abnormally expressed lncRNA. Therefore, this review lists some abnormal lncRNAs in TNBC, further analyzes their molecular mechanisms and biological roles in the development of TNBC, and summarizes the potential of lncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets of TNBC, so as to provide ideas for clinical diagnosis, targeted therapy, and prognosis monitoring of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangkun Zhou
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Yang Yue
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Siyu Fan
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Qiaojun Jia
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xianfeng Ding
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
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79
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Manjunath M, Choudhary B. Triple-negative breast cancer: A run-through of features, classification and current therapies. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:512. [PMID: 33986872 PMCID: PMC8114477 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women worldwide. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by the lack of expression of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. It is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer and accounts for 12-20% of all breast cancer cases. TNBC is associated with younger age of onset, greater metastatic potential, higher incidence of relapse, and lower overall survival rates. Based on molecular phenotype, TNBC has been classified into six subtypes (BL1, BL2, M, MES, LAR, and IM). TNBC treatment is challenging due to its heterogeneity, highly invasive nature, and relatively poor therapeutics response. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are conventional strategies for the treatment of TNBC. Recent research in TNBC and mechanistic understanding of disease pathogenesis using cutting-edge technologies has led to the unfolding of new lines of therapies that have been incorporated into clinical practice. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase and immune checkpoint inhibitors have made their way to the current TNBC treatment paradigm. This review focuses on the classification, features, and treatment progress in TNBC. Histological subtypes connected to recurrence, molecular classification of TNBC, targeted therapy for early and advanced TNBC, and advances in non-coding RNA in therapy are the key highlights in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghana Manjunath
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560100, India
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Bibha Choudhary
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560100, India
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80
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Dameri M, Ferrando L, Cirmena G, Vernieri C, Pruneri G, Ballestrero A, Zoppoli G. Multi-Gene Testing Overview with a Clinical Perspective in Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7154. [PMID: 34281208 PMCID: PMC8268401 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is the technology of choice for the routine screening of tumor samples in clinical practice. In this setting, the targeted sequencing of a restricted number of clinically relevant genes represents the most practical option when looking for genetic variants associated with cancer, as well as for the choice of targeted treatments. In this review, we analyze available NGS platforms and clinical applications of multi-gene testing in breast cancer, with a focus on metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC). We make an overview of the clinical utility of multi-gene testing in mTNBC, and then, as immunotherapy is emerging as a possible targeted therapy for mTNBC, we also briefly report on the results of the latest clinical trials involving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and TNBC, where NGS could play a role for the potential predictive utility of homologous recombination repair deficiency (HRD) and tumor mutational burden (TMB).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Dameri
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (M.D.); (L.F.); (G.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Lorenzo Ferrando
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (M.D.); (L.F.); (G.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Gabriella Cirmena
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (M.D.); (L.F.); (G.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Claudio Vernieri
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy;
- IFOM, The FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Pruneri
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy;
- School of Medicine, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Ballestrero
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (M.D.); (L.F.); (G.C.); (A.B.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Zoppoli
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (M.D.); (L.F.); (G.C.); (A.B.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
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81
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Bergeron A, MacGrogan G, Bertaut A, Ladoire S, Arveux P, Desmoulins I, Bonnefoi H, Loustalot C, Auriol S, Beltjens F, Degrolard-Courcet E, Charon-Barra C, Richard C, Boidot R, Arnould L. Triple-negative breast lobular carcinoma: a luminal androgen receptor carcinoma with specific ESRRA mutations. Mod Pathol 2021; 34:1282-1296. [PMID: 33753865 PMCID: PMC8216909 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-021-00742-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Primary triple-negative invasive lobular breast carcinomas (TN-ILCs), which do not express hormone receptors and HER2 at diagnosis, are rare and poorly known. In this study, we analyzed the largest TN-ILC series ever reported in the literature, in comparison to phenotypically similar breast tumor subtypes: triple-negative invasive ductal carcinoma (TN-IDC) and hormone receptor-positive invasive lobular carcinoma (HR + ILC). All primary TN-ILCs registered in our database between 2000 and 2018 (n = 38) were compared to tumors from control groups, matched by stage and Elston/Ellis grade, with regard to clinical, pathologic, and immunohistochemical characteristics. A comparative molecular analysis (whole-exome and RNA sequencing using next-generation technology) was also performed. We found that TN-ILC patients were older than those with HR + ILC (P = 0.002) or TN-IDC (P < 0.001). Morphologically, TN-ILCs had aggressive phenotypes, with more pleomorphism (P = 0.003) and higher nuclear grades than HR + ILCs (P = 0.009). Immunohistochemistry showed that TN-ILCs less frequently expressed basal markers (CK5/6, EGFR and SOX10) than TN-IDCs (P < 0.001), while androgen receptor (AR) positivity was more prevalent (P < 0.001). Survival curves analysis did not show differences between TN-ILC and TN-IDC patients, while overall and distant metastasis-free survival were significantly worse compared to those with HR + ILCs (P = 0.047 and P = 0.039, respectively). At a molecular level, we found that TN-ILCs had particular transcriptomic profiles, characterized by increased AR signaling, and associated with frequent alterations in the PI3K network and ERBB2. Interestingly, whole-exome analysis also identified three specific recurrent ESRRA hotspot mutations in these tumors, which have never been described in breast cancer to date and which were absent in the other two tumor subtypes. Our findings highlight that TN-ILC is a unique aggressive breast cancer associated with elderly age, which belong to the luminal androgen receptor subtype as determined by immunohistochemistry and transcriptomic profiling. Moreover, it harbors specific molecular alterations (PI3K, ERBB2 and ESRRA) which may pave the way for new targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Bergeron
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Biology and Pathology of the Tumors, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France.
| | - Gaëtan MacGrogan
- Department of Biopathology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- INSERM U1218, Bordeaux, France
| | - Aurélie Bertaut
- Unit of Methodology and Biostatistics, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - Sylvain Ladoire
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
- INSERM U1231, Dijon, France
- University of Burgundy-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Patrick Arveux
- Department of Epidemiology, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - Isabelle Desmoulins
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - Hervé Bonnefoi
- INSERM U1218, Bordeaux, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Sophie Auriol
- Department of Surgery, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
| | - Françoise Beltjens
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Biology and Pathology of the Tumors, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - Emilie Degrolard-Courcet
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Biology and Pathology of the Tumors, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - Céline Charon-Barra
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Biology and Pathology of the Tumors, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - Corentin Richard
- Unit of Molecular Pathology, Department of Biology and Pathology of the Tumors, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - Romain Boidot
- Unit of Molecular Pathology, Department of Biology and Pathology of the Tumors, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - Laurent Arnould
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Biology and Pathology of the Tumors, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
- INSERM U1231, Dijon, France
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82
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Turner KM, Yeo SK, Holm TM, Shaughnessy E, Guan JL. Heterogeneity within molecular subtypes of breast cancer. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2021; 321:C343-C354. [PMID: 34191627 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00109.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the quintessential example of how molecular characterization of tumor biology guides therapeutic decisions. From the discovery of the estrogen receptor to current clinical molecular profiles to evolving single-cell analytics, the characterization and compartmentalization of breast cancer into divergent subtypes is clear. However, competing with this divergent model of breast cancer is the recognition of intratumoral heterogeneity, which acknowledges the possibility that multiple different subtypes exist within a single tumor. Intratumoral heterogeneity is driven by both intrinsic effects of the tumor cells themselves as well as extrinsic effects from the surrounding microenvironment. There is emerging evidence that these intratumoral molecular subtypes are not static; rather, plasticity between divergent subtypes is possible. Interconversion between seemingly different subtypes within a tumor drives tumor progression, metastases, and treatment resistance. Therapeutic strategies must, therefore, contend with changing phenotypes in an individual patient's tumor. Identifying targetable drivers of molecular heterogeneity may improve treatment durability and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Turner
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Syn Kok Yeo
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Tammy M Holm
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Elizabeth Shaughnessy
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jun-Lin Guan
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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83
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Ensenyat-Mendez M, Llinàs-Arias P, Orozco JIJ, Íñiguez-Muñoz S, Salomon MP, Sesé B, DiNome ML, Marzese DM. Current Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Subtypes: Dissecting the Most Aggressive Form of Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:681476. [PMID: 34221999 PMCID: PMC8242253 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.681476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly heterogeneous disease defined by the absence of estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) expression, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression that lacks targeted treatments, leading to dismal clinical outcomes. Thus, better stratification systems that reflect intrinsic and clinically useful differences between TNBC tumors will sharpen the treatment approaches and improve clinical outcomes. The lack of a rational classification system for TNBC also impacts current and emerging therapeutic alternatives. In the past years, several new methodologies to stratify TNBC have arisen thanks to the implementation of microarray technology, high-throughput sequencing, and bioinformatic methods, exponentially increasing the amount of genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic information available. Thus, new TNBC subtypes are being characterized with the promise to advance the treatment of this challenging disease. However, the diverse nature of the molecular data, the poor integration between the various methods, and the lack of cost-effective methods for systematic classification have hampered the widespread implementation of these promising developments. However, the advent of artificial intelligence applied to translational oncology promises to bring light into definitive TNBC subtypes. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the available classification strategies. It includes evaluating the overlap between the molecular, immunohistochemical, and clinical characteristics between these approaches and a perspective about the increasing applications of artificial intelligence to identify definitive and clinically relevant TNBC subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miquel Ensenyat-Mendez
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Pere Llinàs-Arias
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Javier I J Orozco
- Saint John's Cancer Institute, Providence Saint John's Health Center, Santa Monica, CA, United States
| | - Sandra Íñiguez-Muñoz
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Matthew P Salomon
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Borja Sesé
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Maggie L DiNome
- Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Diego M Marzese
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
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84
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Pathogenesis and Potential Therapeutic Targets for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13122978. [PMID: 34198652 PMCID: PMC8232221 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous tumor characterized by early recurrence, high invasion, and poor prognosis. Currently, its treatment includes chemotherapy, which shows a suboptimal efficacy. However, with the increasing studies on TNBC subtypes and tumor molecular biology, great progress has been made in targeted therapy for TNBC. The new developments in the treatment of breast cancer include targeted therapy, which has the advantages of accurate positioning, high efficiency, and low toxicity, as compared to surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Given its importance as cancer treatment, we review the latest research on the subtypes of TNBC and relevant targeted therapies.
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85
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Thakur KK, Kumar A, Banik K, Verma E, Khatoon E, Harsha C, Sethi G, Gupta SC, Kunnumakkara AB. Long noncoding RNAs in triple-negative breast cancer: A new frontier in the regulation of tumorigenesis. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:7938-7965. [PMID: 34105151 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has emerged as the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer and is usually associated with increased mortality worldwide. The severity of TNBC is primarily observed in younger women, with cases ranging from approximately 12%-24% of all breast cancer cases. The existing hormonal therapies offer limited clinical solutions in completely circumventing the TNBC, with chemoresistance and tumor recurrences being the common hurdles in the path of TNBC treatment. Accumulating evidence has correlated the dysregulation of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with increased cell proliferation, invasion, migration, tumor growth, chemoresistance, and decreased apoptosis in TNBC. Various clinical studies have revealed that aberrant expression of lncRNAs in TNBC tissues is associated with poor prognosis, lower overall survival, and disease-free survival. Due to these specific characteristics, lncRNAs have emerged as novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for TNBC treatment. However, the underlying mechanism through which lncRNAs perform their actions remains unclear, and extensive research is being carried out to reveal it. Therefore, understanding of mechanisms regulating the modulation of lncRNAs will be a substantial breakthrough in effective treatment therapies for TNBC. This review highlights the association of several lncRNAs in TNBC progression and treatment, along with their possible functions and mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishan K Thakur
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Aviral Kumar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Kishore Banik
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Elika Verma
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Elina Khatoon
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Choudhary Harsha
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Subash C Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Cancer Biology Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
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86
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Trapani D, Giugliano F, Uliano J, Zia VAA, Marra A, Viale G, Ferraro E, Esposito A, Criscitiello C, D'amico P, Curigliano G. Benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with special histology subtypes of triple-negative breast cancer: a systematic review. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 187:323-337. [PMID: 34043122 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06259-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer (BC) is a leading cause of morbidity, disability, and mortality in women, worldwide; triple-negative BC (TNBC) is a subtype traditionally associated with poorer prognosis. TNBC special histology subtypes present distinct clinical and molecular features and sensitivity to antineoplastic treatments. However, no consensus has been defined on the best adjuvant therapy. The aim of the review is to study the evidence from literature to inform the choice of adjuvant treatments in this setting. METHODS We systematically searched literature assessing the benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with TNBC special histotypes (PROSPERO: CRD42020153818). RESULTS We screened 6404 records (15 included). All the studies estimated the benefit of different chemotherapy regimens, in retrospective cohorts (median size: 69 patients (range min-max: 17-5142); median follow-up: 51 months (range: 21-268); mostly in Europe and USA). In patients with early-stage adenoid cystic TNBC, a marginal role of chemotherapy was reported. Similar for apocrine TNBC. Medullary tumors exhibited an intrinsic good prognosis with a limited role of chemotherapy, suggested to be modulated by the presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. A significant impact of chemotherapy on the overall survival was estimated in patients with metaplastic TNBC. Limitations were related to the retrospective design of all the studies and heterogeneous treatments received by the patients. CONCLUSIONS There is potential opportunity to consider treatment de-escalation and less intense therapies in some patients with early, special histology-type TNBC. International efforts are indispensable to validate prospective clinical decision models.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Trapani
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
| | - F Giugliano
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hematology (DIPO), University of Milan "La Statale", Via Festa Del Perdono 1, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - J Uliano
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hematology (DIPO), University of Milan "La Statale", Via Festa Del Perdono 1, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - V A A Zia
- Division of Medical Oncology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, 04037-004, Brazil
| | - A Marra
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hematology (DIPO), University of Milan "La Statale", Via Festa Del Perdono 1, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - G Viale
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
| | - E Ferraro
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hematology (DIPO), University of Milan "La Statale", Via Festa Del Perdono 1, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - A Esposito
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
| | - C Criscitiello
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hematology (DIPO), University of Milan "La Statale", Via Festa Del Perdono 1, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - P D'amico
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hematology (DIPO), University of Milan "La Statale", Via Festa Del Perdono 1, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - G Curigliano
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy. .,Department of Oncology and Hematology (DIPO), University of Milan "La Statale", Via Festa Del Perdono 1, 20122, Milan, Italy.
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87
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Phenomapping of Patients with Primary Breast Cancer Using Machine Learning-Based Unsupervised Cluster Analysis. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11040272. [PMID: 33916398 PMCID: PMC8067194 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11040272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary breast cancer (PBC) is a heterogeneous disease at the clinical, histopathological, and molecular levels. The improved classification of PBC might be important to identify subgroups of the disease, relevant to patient management. Machine learning algorithms may allow a better understanding of the relationships within heterogeneous clinical syndromes. This work aims to show the potential of unsupervised learning techniques for improving classification in PBC. A dataset of 712 women with PBC is used as a motivating example. A set of variables containing biological prognostic parameters is considered to define groups of individuals. Four different clustering methods are used: K-means, self-organising maps, hierarchical agglomerative (HAC), and Gaussian mixture models clustering. HAC outperforms the other clustering methods. With an optimal partitioning parameter, the methods identify two clusters with different clinical profiles. Patients in the first cluster are younger and have lower values of the oestrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PgR) than patients in the second cluster. Moreover, cathepsin D values are lower in the first cluster. The three most important variables identified by the HAC are: age, ER, and PgR. Unsupervised learning seems a suitable alternative for the analysis of PBC data, opening up new perspectives in the particularly active domain of dissecting clinical heterogeneity.
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88
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Brumec M, Sobočan M, Takač I, Arko D. Clinical Implications of Androgen-Positive Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1642. [PMID: 33915941 PMCID: PMC8037213 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes the recent findings of a vast array of studies conducted on androgen receptor-positive triple-negative breast cancer (AR-positive TNBC) to provide a better understanding of this specific breast cancer subgroup. AR expression is correlated with higher age, lower histological grade, lower proliferation index Ki-67, spiculated masses, and calcifications on mammography. Studies investigating the correlation between AR expression and lymph node metastasis are highly discordant. In addition, results regarding prognosis are highly contradictory. AR antagonists are a promising novel therapeutic approach in AR-positive TNBC. However, AR signaling pathways should be more investigated in order to understand the influence of AR expression on TNBC more thoroughly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maša Brumec
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (M.B.); (I.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Monika Sobočan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (M.B.); (I.T.); (D.A.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Divison of Gynecology and Perinatology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Iztok Takač
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (M.B.); (I.T.); (D.A.)
- Divison of Gynecology and Perinatology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Darja Arko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (M.B.); (I.T.); (D.A.)
- Divison of Gynecology and Perinatology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
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89
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Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Evaluation of Early Clinical Response, Pathological Complete Response Rates, and Addition of Platinum Salts Benefit Based on Real-World Evidence. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071586. [PMID: 33808149 PMCID: PMC8036281 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is the standard treatment for early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Achieving pathological complete response (pCR) is considered an essential prognostic factor with favorable long-term outcomes. The administration of NACT regimens with platinum salts is associated with a higher pCR rate. However, with unclear treatment guidelines and at the expense of a higher incidence of adverse events. Identifying patients and circumstances in which the benefits of platinum NACT outweigh inconveniences is still an ongoing challenge. Considering early clinical response (ECR) after the initial standard NACT cycles together with other suitable predictors could be useful to decide about the administration of platinum salts in clinical practice. The results of this large single institutional retrospective study of consecutive patients showed the significant role of adding platinum salts in older patients with high-proliferative early responded tumors and persisted lymph nodes involvement regardless of BRCA1/2 status. Abstract Pathological complete response (pCR) achievement is undoubtedly the essential goal of neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer, directly affecting survival endpoints. This retrospective study of 237 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients with a median follow-up of 36 months evaluated the role of adding platinum salts into standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). After the initial four standard NACT cycles, early clinical response (ECR) was assessed and used to identify tumors and patients generally sensitive to NACT. BRCA1/2 mutation, smaller unifocal tumors, and Ki-67 ≥ 65% were independent predictors of ECR. The total pCR rate was 41%, the achievement of pCR was strongly associated with ECR (OR = 15.1, p < 0.001). According to multivariable analysis, the significant benefit of platinum NACT was observed in early responders ≥45 years, Ki-67 ≥ 65% and persisted lymph node involvement regardless of BRCA1/2 status. Early responders with pCR had a longer time to death (HR = 0.28, p < 0.001) and relapse (HR = 0.26, p < 0.001). The pCR was achieved in only 7% of non-responders. However, platinum salts favored non-responders’ survival outcomes without statistical significance. Toxicity was significantly often observed in patients with platinum NACT (p = 0.003) but not for grade 3/4 (p = 0.155). These results based on real-world evidence point to the usability of ECR in NACT management, especially focusing on the benefit of platinum salts.
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90
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Zubair M, Wang S, Ali N. Advanced Approaches to Breast Cancer Classification and Diagnosis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:632079. [PMID: 33716731 PMCID: PMC7952319 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.632079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has recently reported a 66% increase in the global number of cancer deaths since 1960. In the US alone, about one in eight women is expected to develop invasive breast cancer(s) (breast cancer) at some point in their lifetime. Traditionally, a BC diagnosis includes mammography, ultrasound, and some high-end molecular bioimaging. Unfortunately, these techniques detect BC at a later stage. So early and advanced molecular diagnostic tools are still in demand. In the past decade, various histological and immuno-molecular studies have demonstrated that BC is highly heterogeneous in nature. Its growth pattern, cytological features, and expression of key biomarkers in BC cells including hormonal receptor markers can be utilized to develop advanced diagnostic and therapeutic tools. A cancer cell's progression to malignancy exhibits various vital biomarkers, many of which are still underrepresented in BC diagnosis and treatment. Advances in genetics have also enabled the development of multigene assays to detect genetic heterogeneity in BC. However, thus far, the FDA has approved only four such biomarkers-cancer antigens (CA); CA 15-3, CA 27-29, Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and circulating tumor cells (CTC) in assessing BC in body fluids. An adequately structured portable-biosensor with its non-invasive and inexpensive point-of-care analysis can quickly detect such biomarkers without significantly compromising its specificity and selectivity. Such advanced techniques are likely to discriminate between BC and a healthy patient by accurately measuring the cell shape, structure, depth, intracellular and extracellular environment, and lipid membrane compositions. Presently, BC treatments include surgery and systemic chemo- and targeted radiation therapy. A biopsied sample is then subjected to various multigene assays to predict the heterogeneity and recurrence score, thus guiding a specific treatment by providing complete information on the BC subtype involved. Thus far, we have seven prognostic multigene signature tests for BC providing a risk profile that can avoid unnecessary treatments in low-risk patients. Many comparative studies on multigene analysis projected the importance of integrating clinicopathological information with genomic-imprint analysis. Current cohort studies such as MINDACT, TAILORx, Trans-aTTOM, and many more, are likely to provide positive impact on long-term patient outcome. This review offers consolidated information on currently available BC diagnosis and treatment options. It further describes advanced biomarkers for the development of state-of-the-art early screening and diagnostic technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Zubair
- Department of Biology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - S. Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - N. Ali
- Department of Biology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR, United States
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91
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Cellular Fitness Phenotypes of Cancer Target Genes from Oncobiology to Cancer Therapeutics. Cells 2021; 10:cells10020433. [PMID: 33670680 PMCID: PMC7921985 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020433] [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: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
To define the growing significance of cellular targets and/or effectors of cancer drugs, we examined the fitness dependency of cellular targets and effectors of cancer drug targets across human cancer cells from 19 cancer types. We observed that the deletion of 35 out of 47 cellular effectors and/or targets of oncology drugs did not result in the expected loss of cell fitness in appropriate cancer types for which drugs targeting or utilizing these molecules for their actions were approved. Additionally, our analysis recognized 43 cellular molecules as fitness genes in several cancer types in which these drugs were not approved, and thus, providing clues for repurposing certain approved oncology drugs in such cancer types. For example, we found a widespread upregulation and fitness dependency of several components of the mevalonate and purine biosynthesis pathways (currently targeted by bisphosphonates, statins, and pemetrexed in certain cancers) and an association between the overexpression of these molecules and reduction in the overall survival duration of patients with breast and other hard-to-treat cancers, for which such drugs are not approved. In brief, the present analysis raised cautions about off-target and undesirable effects of certain oncology drugs in a subset of cancers where the intended cellular effectors of drug might not be good fitness genes and that this study offers a potential rationale for repurposing certain approved oncology drugs for targeted therapeutics in additional cancer types.
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92
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Kumar S, Prajapati KS, Singh AK, Kushwaha PP, Shuaib M, Gupta S. Long non-coding RNA regulating androgen receptor signaling in breast and prostate cancer. Cancer Lett 2021; 504:15-22. [PMID: 33556545 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.11.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The human genome transcribe an array of RNAs that do not encode proteins and may act as mediators in the regulation of gene expression. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of non-coding RNAs consisting of more than 200 nucleotides of RNA transcripts that play important role in tumor development. Numerous lncRNAs have been characterized as functional transcripts associated with several biological processes and pathologic stages. Although the biological function and molecular mechanisms of lncRNAs remains to be explored, recent studies demonstrate aberrant expression of several lncRNAs linked with various human cancers. The present review summarizes the current knowledge of lncRNA expression patterns and mechanisms that contribute to carcinogenesis. In particular, we focus on lncRNAs regulating androgen receptor signaling pathways in prostate and breast cancer subtype having prognostic and therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashank Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry, Drug Discovery and Therapeutic Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India.
| | - Kumari Sunita Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry, Drug Discovery and Therapeutic Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Atul Kumar Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, Drug Discovery and Therapeutic Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Prem Prakash Kushwaha
- Department of Biochemistry, Drug Discovery and Therapeutic Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Mohd Shuaib
- Department of Biochemistry, Drug Discovery and Therapeutic Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- Department of Urology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA; The Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA; Department of Nutrition, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA; Division of General Medical Sciences, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA; Department of Urology, Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
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93
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Honma N, Ogata H, Yamada A, Matsuda Y, Kontani K, Miyashita M, Arai T, Sasaki E, Shibuya K, Mikami T, Sawaki M. Clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic marker of triple-negative breast cancer in older women. Hum Pathol 2021; 111:10-20. [PMID: 33548251 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacks an effective treatment target and is usually treated with chemotherapy. Treatment of older patients with TNBC, however, should be decided carefully because of the side effects of chemotherapy in this population. Some forms of TNBC are associated with a favorable prognosis and do not require chemotherapy. To optimize the treatment of older patients with TNBC, it is important to know the clinicopathological characteristics and a prognostic marker. In this study, classic clinicopathological factors, immunohistochemical characteristics (androgen receptor [AR], cytokeratin 5/6 [CK5/6], epidermal growth factor receptor), tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and the clinical outcome based on the status of each biomarker were compared among a consecutive series of female patients with TNBC aged ≥75 years (n = 75) and among those aged 55-64 years matched for the pathological stage (n = 47) who underwent surgery without neoadjuvant therapy. TNBC with special histology (particularly apocrine carcinoma, pleomorphic invasive lobular carcinoma, and metaplastic carcinoma) was more frequent in the older group than in the younger group (35/75, 57% versus 11/47, 23%, P = 0.010). The AR positivity rate was higher in older patients than in younger patients, whereas TILs and CK5/6 exhibited the opposite results. In multivariate analyses, AR positivity was an independent predictor of a favorable outcome in older patients (lower recurrence rate), whereas the high level of TILs was favorable in younger patients (lower recurrence and mortality rates). AR positivity or apocrine morphology was frequent and predicts a favorable clinical outcome in older patients with TNBC, suggesting the importance of AR examination in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Honma
- Department of Pathology, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Omori-Nishi 5-21-16, Ota-ku, Tokyo, 143-8540, Japan.
| | - Hideaki Ogata
- Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Toho University Omori Medical Center, Omori-Nishi 6-11-1, Ota-ku, Tokyo, 143-8541, Japan
| | - Akimitsu Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Fukuura 3-9, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yoko Matsuda
- Oncology Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Ikenobe 1750-1, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
| | - Keiichi Kontani
- Department of Thoracic, Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Ikenobe 1750-1, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
| | - Mika Miyashita
- Gerontological and Oncology Nursing, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Kasumi 1-2-3, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8553, Japan
| | - Tomio Arai
- Department of Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Sakaecho 35-2, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, 173-0015, Japan
| | - Eiichi Sasaki
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Kanokoden 1-1, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8681, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Shibuya
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Omori-Nishi 5-21-16, Ota-ku, Tokyo, 143-8540, Japan
| | - Tetuo Mikami
- Department of Pathology, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Omori-Nishi 5-21-16, Ota-ku, Tokyo, 143-8540, Japan
| | - Masataka Sawaki
- Department of Breast Oncology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Kanokoden 1-1, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8681, Japan
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94
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Zhang W, Guan X, Tang J. The long non-coding RNA landscape in triple-negative breast cancer. Cell Prolif 2021; 54:e12966. [PMID: 33314471 PMCID: PMC7848969 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a type of breast cancer that has a higher risk of distant recurrence and metastasis, leading to a relatively aggressive biological behaviour and poor outcome. So far, the clinical management of TNBC is challenging because of its heterogeneity and paucity of specific targeted therapy. Recently, various studies have identified a lot of differently expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in TNBC. Those lncRNAs have been reported to play important roles in the multistep process of TNBC tumorigenesis. Here, we review the biological characteristics of lncRNAs, and present the current state of knowledge concerning the expression, function and regulation of lncRNAs in TNBC. Accumulating studies explored the potential lncRNAs-based therapeutics in TNBC, including the techniques of genetic modification using antisense oligonucleotides, locked nucleic acid and RNA nanotechnology. In current review, we also discuss the future prospects of studies about lncRNAs in TNBC and development of lncRNA-based strategies for clinical TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Zhang
- Department of OncologyNanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Xiaoxiang Guan
- Department of OncologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Jinhai Tang
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
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95
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Li JW, Zhou J, Shi ZT, Li N, Zhou SC, Chang C. Sonographic Features of Triple-Negative Breast Carcinomas Are Correlated With mRNA-lncRNA Signatures and Risk of Tumor Recurrence. Front Oncol 2021; 10:587422. [PMID: 33542899 PMCID: PMC7851073 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.587422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To determine a correlation between mRNA and lncRNA signatures, sonographic features, and risk of recurrence in triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC). Methods We retrospectively reviewed the data from 114 TNBC patients having undergone transcriptome analysis. The risk of tumor recurrence was determined based on the correlation between transcriptome profiles and recurrence-free survival. Ultrasound (US) features were described according to the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System. Multivariate logistic regression analysis determined the correlation between US features and risk of recurrence. The predictive value of sonographic features in determining tumor recurrence was analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curves. Results Three mRNAs (CHRDL1, FCGR1A, and RSAD2) and two lncRNAs (HIF1A-AS2 and AK124454) were correlated with recurrence-free survival in patients with TNBC. Among the three mRNAs, two were upregulated (FCGR1A and RSAD2) and one was downregulated (CHRDL1) in TNBCs. LncRNAs HIF1A-AS2 and AK124454 were upregulated in TNBCs. Based on these signatures, an integrated mRNA–lncRNA model was established using Cox regression analysis to determine the risk of tumor recurrence. Benign-like sonographic features, such as regular shape, circumscribed margin, posterior acoustic enhancement, and no calcifications, were associated with HIF1A-AS2 expression and high risk of tumor recurrence (P<0.05). Malignant-like features, such as irregular shape, uncircumscribed margin, no posterior acoustic enhancement, and calcifications, were correlated with CHRDL1 expression and low risk of tumor recurrence (P<0.05). Conclusions Sonographic features and mRNA–lncRNA signatures in TNBCs represent the risk of tumor recurrence. Taken together, US may be a promising technique in determining the prognosis of patients with TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Wei Li
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Zhou
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhao-Ting Shi
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Chong Zhou
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cai Chang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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96
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Kim S, Kim DH, Lee W, Lee YM, Choi SY, Han K. The nature of triple-negative breast cancer classification and antitumoral strategies. Genomics Inform 2020; 18:e35. [PMID: 33412751 PMCID: PMC7808875 DOI: 10.5808/gi.2020.18.4.e35] [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: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying the patterns of gene expression in breast cancers is essential to understanding their pathophysiology and developing anticancer drugs. Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with different subtypes determined by distinct biological features. Luminal breast cancer is characterized by a relatively high expression of estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) genes, which are expressed in breast luminal cells. In ~25% of invasive breast cancers, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is overexpressed; these cancers are categorized as the HER2 type. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), in which the cancer cells do not express ER/PR or HER2, shows highly aggressive clinical outcomes. TNBC can be further classified into specific subtypes according to genomic mutations and cancer immunogenicity. Herein, we discuss the brief history of TNBC classification and its implications for promising treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songmi Kim
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Dong Hee Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Dankook University Hospital, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Wooseok Lee
- Center for Bio-Medical Engineering Core Facility, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Yong-Moon Lee
- Department of Pathology, Dankook University School of Medicine, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Song-Yi Choi
- Department of Pathology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Kyudong Han
- Center for Bio-Medical Engineering Core Facility, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea.,Department of Microbiology, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
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97
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Volovat SR, Volovat C, Hordila I, Hordila DA, Mirestean CC, Miron OT, Lungulescu C, Scripcariu DV, Stolniceanu CR, Konsoulova-Kirova AA, Grigorescu C, Stefanescu C, Volovat CC, Augustin I. MiRNA and LncRNA as Potential Biomarkers in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A Review. Front Oncol 2020; 10:526850. [PMID: 33330019 PMCID: PMC7716774 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.526850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) include a diverse range of RNA species, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). MiRNAs, ncRNAs of approximately 19-25 nucleotides in length, are involved in gene expression regulation either via degradation or silencing of the messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and have roles in multiple biological processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. LncRNAs, which are longer than 200 nucleotides, comprise one of the largest and most heterogeneous RNA families. LncRNAs can activate or repress gene expression through various mechanisms, acting alone or in combination with miRNAs and other molecules as part of various pathways. Until recently, most research has focused on individual lncRNA and miRNA functions as regulators, and there is limited available data on ncRNA interactions relating to the tumor growth, metastasis, and therapy of cancer, acting either on mRNA alone or as competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents approximately 10%-20% of all breast cancers (BCs) and is highly heterogenous and more aggressive than other types of BC, for which current targeted treatment options include hormonotherapy, PARP inhibitors, and immunotherapy; however, no targeted therapies for TNBC are available, partly because of a lack of predictive biomarkers. With advances in proteomics, new evidence has emerged demonstrating the implications of dysregulation of ncRNAs in TNBC etiology. Here, we review the roles of lncRNAs and miRNAs implicated in TNBC, including their interactions and regulatory networks. Our synthesis provides insight into the mechanisms involved in TNBC progression and has potential to aid the discovery of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Ruxandra Volovat
- Department of Medical Oncology-Radiotherapy, Grigore T Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Constantin Volovat
- Department of Medical Oncology-Radiotherapy, Grigore T Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania.,Center of Oncology Euroclinic, Iași, Romania
| | | | | | | | | | - Cristian Lungulescu
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Craiova, Romania
| | | | - Cati Raluca Stolniceanu
- Department of Biophysics and Medical Physics-Nuclear Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Gr. T. Popa Iasi, Iași, Romania
| | | | - Cristina Grigorescu
- Department of Surgery, Grigore T Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Cipriana Stefanescu
- Department of Biophysics and Medical Physics-Nuclear Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Gr. T. Popa Iasi, Iași, Romania
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98
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Lee YM, Oh MH, Go JH, Han K, Choi SY. Molecular subtypes of triple-negative breast cancer: understanding of subtype categories and clinical implication. Genes Genomics 2020; 42:1381-1387. [PMID: 33145728 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-020-01014-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous entity that encompasses several subtypes with distinct molecular characteristics. The patients with TNBCs show unpredictable response to the chemotherapy, and further there is the lack of effective agents. Thus, many studies have been underway to discover targeted therapy suitable for patients with specific genetic alterations in each molecular subtypes. TNBCs are classified as four major molecular subtypes according to the gene expression patterns. These are luminal androgen receptor (LAR), mesenchymal-like, immunomodulatory (IM), and basal-like types. CONCLUSION Here, we discuss the unique molecular features of each subtype as well as promising targets for anti-cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Moon Lee
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Man Hwan Oh
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jai-Hyang Go
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyudong Han
- Department of Microbiology, College of Science and Technology, Dankook University, 29 Anseo-dong, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea. .,Center for Bio-Medical Engineering Core Facility, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea.
| | - Song-Yi Choi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, 266 Munwha-Ro, Jung-Gu, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea.
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99
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Wang Y, Wu S, Zhu X, Zhang L, Deng J, Li F, Guo B, Zhang S, Wu R, Zhang Z, Wang K, Lu J, Zhou Y. LncRNA-encoded polypeptide ASRPS inhibits triple-negative breast cancer angiogenesis. J Exp Med 2020; 217:132618. [PMID: 31816634 PMCID: PMC7062514 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20190950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, Wang et al. demonstrate that lncRNA-encoded polypeptide ASRPS is down-regulated in TNBC. ASRPS regulates angiogenesis and may serve as a novel prognostic marker and therapeutic target for TNBC. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer (BC) with the most aggressive phenotype and poor overall survival. Using bioinformatics tools, we identified LINC00908 encoding a 60–aa polypeptide and differentially expressed in TNBC tissues. We named this endogenously expressed polypeptide ASRPS (a small regulatory peptide of STAT3). ASRPS expression was down-regulated in TNBCs and associated with poor overall survival. We showed that LINC00908 was directly regulated by ERα, which was responsible for the differential down-regulation of LINC00908 in TNBCs. ASRPS directly bound to STAT3 through the coiled coil domain (CCD) and down-regulated STAT3 phosphorylation, which led to reduced expression of VEGF. In human endothelial cells, a mouse xenograft breast cancer model, and a mouse spontaneous BC model, ASRPS expression reduced angiogenesis. In a mouse xenograft breast cancer model, down-regulation of ASRPS promoted tumor growth, and ASRPS acted as an antitumor peptide. We presented strong evidence that LINC00908-encoded polypeptide ASRPS represented a TNBC-specific target for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yirong Wang
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Siqi Wu
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xun Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Liyuan Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jieqiong Deng
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Binbin Guo
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shenghua Zhang
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Rui Wu
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Kexin Wang
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiachun Lu
- The State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, The School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Zhou
- Department of Genetics, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Ávalos-Moreno M, López-Tejada A, Blaya-Cánovas JL, Cara-Lupiañez FE, González-González A, Lorente JA, Sánchez-Rovira P, Granados-Principal S. Drug Repurposing for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. J Pers Med 2020; 10:E200. [PMID: 33138097 PMCID: PMC7711505 DOI: 10.3390/jpm10040200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive type of breast cancer which presents a high rate of relapse, metastasis, and mortality. Nowadays, the absence of approved specific targeted therapies to eradicate TNBC remains one of the main challenges in clinical practice. Drug discovery is a long and costly process that can be dramatically improved by drug repurposing, which identifies new uses for existing drugs, both approved and investigational. Drug repositioning benefits from improvements in computational methods related to chemoinformatics, genomics, and systems biology. To the best of our knowledge, we propose a novel and inclusive classification of those approaches whereby drug repurposing can be achieved in silico: structure-based, transcriptional signatures-based, biological networks-based, and data-mining-based drug repositioning. This review specially emphasizes the most relevant research, both at preclinical and clinical settings, aimed at repurposing pre-existing drugs to treat TNBC on the basis of molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways such as androgen receptor, adrenergic receptor, STAT3, nitric oxide synthase, or AXL. Finally, because of the ability and relevance of cancer stem cells (CSCs) to drive tumor aggressiveness and poor clinical outcome, we also focus on those molecules repurposed to specifically target this cell population to tackle recurrence and metastases associated with the progression of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Ávalos-Moreno
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, PTS Granada, Avenida de la Ilustración, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.Á.-M.); (A.L.-T.); (J.L.B.-C.); (F.E.C.-L.); (A.G.-G.); (J.A.L.)
| | - Araceli López-Tejada
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, PTS Granada, Avenida de la Ilustración, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.Á.-M.); (A.L.-T.); (J.L.B.-C.); (F.E.C.-L.); (A.G.-G.); (J.A.L.)
- UGC de Oncología Médica, Complejo Hospitalario de Jaén, 23007 Jaén, Spain;
| | - Jose L. Blaya-Cánovas
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, PTS Granada, Avenida de la Ilustración, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.Á.-M.); (A.L.-T.); (J.L.B.-C.); (F.E.C.-L.); (A.G.-G.); (J.A.L.)
- UGC de Oncología Médica, Complejo Hospitalario de Jaén, 23007 Jaén, Spain;
| | - Francisca E. Cara-Lupiañez
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, PTS Granada, Avenida de la Ilustración, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.Á.-M.); (A.L.-T.); (J.L.B.-C.); (F.E.C.-L.); (A.G.-G.); (J.A.L.)
- UGC de Oncología Médica, Complejo Hospitalario de Jaén, 23007 Jaén, Spain;
| | - Adrián González-González
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, PTS Granada, Avenida de la Ilustración, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.Á.-M.); (A.L.-T.); (J.L.B.-C.); (F.E.C.-L.); (A.G.-G.); (J.A.L.)
- UGC de Oncología Médica, Complejo Hospitalario de Jaén, 23007 Jaén, Spain;
| | - Jose A. Lorente
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, PTS Granada, Avenida de la Ilustración, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.Á.-M.); (A.L.-T.); (J.L.B.-C.); (F.E.C.-L.); (A.G.-G.); (J.A.L.)
- Department of Legal Medicine, School of Medicine—PTS—University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | | | - Sergio Granados-Principal
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, PTS Granada, Avenida de la Ilustración, 18016 Granada, Spain; (M.Á.-M.); (A.L.-T.); (J.L.B.-C.); (F.E.C.-L.); (A.G.-G.); (J.A.L.)
- UGC de Oncología Médica, Complejo Hospitalario de Jaén, 23007 Jaén, Spain;
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