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Schaff DL, Fasse AJ, White PE, Vander Velde RJ, Shaffer SM. Clonal differences underlie variable responses to sequential and prolonged treatment. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.24.534152. [PMID: 36993721 PMCID: PMC10055379 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.24.534152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells exhibit dramatic differences in gene expression at the single-cell level which can predict whether they become resistant to treatment. Treatment perpetuates this heterogeneity, resulting in a diversity of cell states among resistant clones. However, it remains unclear whether these differences lead to distinct responses when another treatment is applied or the same treatment is continued. In this study, we combined single-cell RNA-sequencing with barcoding to track resistant clones through prolonged and sequential treatments. We found that cells within the same clone have similar gene expression states after multiple rounds of treatment. Moreover, we demonstrated that individual clones have distinct and differing fates, including growth, survival, or death, when subjected to a second treatment or when the first treatment is continued. By identifying gene expression states that predict clone survival, this work provides a foundation for selecting optimal therapies that target the most aggressive resistant clones within a tumor.
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Prendergast CM, Capaccione KM, Lopci E, Das JP, Shoushtari AN, Yeh R, Amin D, Dercle L, De Jong D. More than Just Skin-Deep: A Review of Imaging's Role in Guiding CAR T-Cell Therapy for Advanced Melanoma. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:992. [PMID: 36900136 PMCID: PMC10000712 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13050992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced melanoma is one of the deadliest cancers, owing to its invasiveness and its propensity to develop resistance to therapy. Surgery remains the first-line treatment for early-stage tumors but is often not an option for advanced-stage melanoma. Chemotherapy carries a poor prognosis, and despite advances in targeted therapy, the cancer can develop resistance. CAR T-cell therapy has demonstrated great success against hematological cancers, and clinical trials are deploying it against advanced melanoma. Though melanoma remains a challenging disease to treat, radiology will play an increasing role in monitoring both the CAR T-cells and response to therapy. We review the current imaging techniques for advanced melanoma, as well as novel PET tracers and radiomics, in order to guide CAR T-cell therapy and manage potential adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor M. Prendergast
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Kathleen M. Capaccione
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Egesta Lopci
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, IRCSS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Jeeban P. Das
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Randy Yeh
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Daniel Amin
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Laurent Dercle
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Dorine De Jong
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
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Peng Z, Gillissen B, Richter A, Sinnberg T, Schlaak MS, Eberle J. Enhanced Apoptosis and Loss of Cell Viability in Melanoma Cells by Combined Inhibition of ERK and Mcl-1 Is Related to Loss of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential, Caspase Activation and Upregulation of Proapoptotic Bcl-2 Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054961. [PMID: 36902392 PMCID: PMC10002974 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting of MAP kinase pathways by BRAF inhibitors has evolved as a key therapy for BRAF-mutated melanoma. However, it cannot be applied for BRAF-WT melanoma, and also, in BRAF-mutated melanoma, tumor relapse often follows after an initial phase of tumor regression. Inhibition of MAP kinase pathways downstream at ERK1/2, or inhibitors of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, such as Mcl-1, may serve as alternative strategies. As shown here, the BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib and the ERK inhibitor SCH772984 showed only limited efficacy in melanoma cell lines, when applied alone. However, in combination with the Mcl-1 inhibitor S63845, the effects of vemurafenib were strongly enhanced in BRAF-mutated cell lines, and the effects of SCH772984 were enhanced in both BRAF-mutated and BRAF-WT cells. This resulted in up to 90% loss of cell viability and cell proliferation, as well as in induction of apoptosis in up to 60% of cells. The combination of SCH772984/S63845 resulted in caspase activation, processing of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), phosphorylation of histone H2AX, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and cytochrome c release. Proving the critical role of caspases, a pan-caspase inhibitor suppressed apoptosis induction, as well as loss of cell viability. As concerning Bcl-2 family proteins, SCH772984 enhanced expression of the proapoptotic Bim and Puma, as well as decreased phosphorylation of Bad. The combination finally resulted in downregulation of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and enhanced expression of the proapoptotic Noxa. In conclusion, combined inhibition of ERK and Mcl-1 revealed an impressive efficacy both in BRAF-mutated and WT melanoma cells, and may thus represent a new strategy for overcoming drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Peng
- Skin Cancer Centre Charité, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Clinical Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Bernhard Gillissen
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Antje Richter
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobias Sinnberg
- Skin Cancer Centre Charité, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Division of Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Max S. Schlaak
- Skin Cancer Centre Charité, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jürgen Eberle
- Skin Cancer Centre Charité, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Li H, Lv W, Zhang Y, Feng Q, Wu H, Su C, Shu H, Nie F. PLGA-PEI nanobubbles carrying PDLIM5 siRNA inhibit EGFR-TKI-resistant NSCLC cell migration and invasion ability using UTND technology. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2023.104346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
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Microbiota, Oxidative Stress, and Skin Cancer: An Unexpected Triangle. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030546. [PMID: 36978794 PMCID: PMC10045429 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence indicates that the microbiota, the unique combination of micro-organisms residing in a specific environment, plays an essential role in the development of a wide range of human diseases, including skin cancer. Moreover, a persistent imbalance of microbial community, named dysbiosis, can also be associated with oxidative stress, a well-known emerging force involved in the pathogenesis of several human diseases, including cutaneous malignancies. Although their interplay has been somewhat suggested, the connection between microbiota, oxidative stress, and skin cancer is a largely unexplored field. In the present review, we discuss the current knowledge on these topics, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies.
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Vemurafenib and Dabrafenib Downregulates RIPK4 Level. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030918. [PMID: 36765875 PMCID: PMC9913565 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Vemurafenib and dabrafenib are BRAF kinase inhibitors (BRAFi) used for the treatment of patients with melanoma carrying the V600E BRAF mutation. However, melanoma cells develop resistance to both drugs when used as monotherapy. Therefore, mechanisms of drug resistance are investigated, and new molecular targets are sought that could completely inhibit melanoma progression. Since receptor-interacting protein kinase (RIPK4) probably functions as an oncogene in melanoma and its structure is similar to the BRAF protein, we analyzed the impact of vemurafenib and dabrafenib on RIPK4 in melanomas. The in silico study confirmed the high similarity of BRAF kinase domains to the RIPK4 protein at both the sequence and structural levels and suggests that BRAFi could directly bind to RIPK4 even more strongly than to ATP. Furthermore, BRAFi inhibited ERK1/2 activity and lowered RIPK4 protein levels in BRAF-mutated melanoma cells (A375 and WM266.4), while in wild-type BRAF cells (BLM and LoVo), both inhibitors decreased the level of RIPK4 and enhanced ERK1/2 activity. The phosphorylation of phosphatidylethanolamine binding protein 1 (PEBP1)-a suppressor of the BRAF/MEK/ERK pathway-via RIPK4 observed in pancreatic cancer did not occur in melanoma. Neither downregulation nor upregulation of RIPK4 in BRAF- mutated cells affected PEBP1 levels or the BRAF/MEK/ERK pathway. The downregulation of RIPK4 inhibited cell proliferation and the FAK/AKT pathway, and increased BRAFi efficiency in WM266.4 cells. However, the silencing of RIPK4 did not induce apoptosis or necroptosis. Our study suggests that RIPK4 may be an off-target for BRAF inhibitors.
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Schubert L, Mariko ML, Clerc J, Huillard O, Groussin L. MAPK Pathway Inhibitors in Thyroid Cancer: Preclinical and Clinical Data. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030710. [PMID: 36765665 PMCID: PMC9913385 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine cancer, with a good prognosis in most cases. However, some cancers of follicular origin are metastatic or recurrent and eventually become radioiodine refractory thyroid cancers (RAIR-TC). These more aggressive cancers are a clinical concern for which the therapeutic arsenal remains limited. Molecular biology of these tumors has highlighted a hyper-activation of the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases (MAPK) pathway (RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK), mostly secondary to the BRAFV600E hotspot mutation occurring in about 60% of papillary cancers and 45% of anaplastic cancers. Therapies targeting the different protagonists of this signaling pathway have been tested in preclinical and clinical models: first and second generation RAF inhibitors and MEK inhibitors. In clinical practice, dual therapies with a BRAF inhibitor and a MEK inhibitor are being recommended in anaplastic cancers with the BRAFV600E mutation. Concerning RAIR-TC, these inhibitors can be used as anti-proliferative drugs, but their efficacy is inconsistent due to primary or secondary resistance. A specific therapeutic approach in thyroid cancers consists of performing a short-term treatment with these MAPK pathway inhibitors to evaluate their capacity to redifferentiate a refractory tumor, with the aim of retreating the patients by radioactive iodine therapy in case of re-expression of the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS). In this work, we report data from recent preclinical and clinical studies on the efficacy of MAPK pathway inhibitors and their resistance mechanisms. We will also report the different preclinical and clinical studies that have investigated the redifferentiation with these therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Schubert
- Department of Endocrinology, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 75014 Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Mohamed Lamine Mariko
- Department of Endocrinology, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 75014 Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Clerc
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Olivier Huillard
- Institut du Cancer Paris CARPEM, Department of Medical Oncology, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Lionel Groussin
- Department of Endocrinology, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 75014 Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
- Correspondence:
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Wang B, Liu F, Li Y, Chen N. Role of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism-Related Genes in Tumour Immune Cell Infiltration and Prognosis of Cutaneous Melanoma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:3754094. [PMID: 37205232 PMCID: PMC10188268 DOI: 10.1155/2023/3754094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Background Advances in cancer research have allowed for early diagnosis and improved treatment of cutaneous melanoma (CM). However, its invasiveness and recurrent metastasis, along with rising resistance to newer therapies, have lent urgency to the search for novel biomarkers and the underlying molecular mechanisms of CM. Methods Single nucleotide polymorphism- (SNP-) related genes were obtained from the sequencing data of 428 CM samples in The Cancer Genome Atlas. Functional enrichment of these genes was analysed in clusterProfiler. Additionally, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed with the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Gene (STRING) database. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) was used to identify the expression and prognostic value of mutated genes. Finally, the Tumour Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) analysed the relationship between gene expression and immune cell infiltration. Results We constructed a PPI network from the top 60 SNP-related genes. Mutated genes were mainly involved in calcium and oxytocin signalling pathways, as well as circadian entrainment. In addition, three SNP-related genes, BRAF, FLG, and SORL1, were significantly associated with patient prognosis. BRAF and SORL1 were positively associated with infiltration abundance of B cells, CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, neutrophils, and dendritic cells, whereas FLG expression was negatively associated. Furthermore, higher immune cell infiltration was positively correlated with good prognosis. Conclusions Our study provides vital bioinformatic data and a relevant theoretical basis to further explore the molecular pathogenesis of CM and improve patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baihe Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Fanxiao Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Nan Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
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Wu Z, Bian Y, Chu T, Wang Y, Man S, Song Y, Wang Z. The role of angiogenesis in melanoma: Clinical treatments and future expectations. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1028647. [PMID: 36588679 PMCID: PMC9797529 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1028647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of melanoma has increased rapidly over the past few decades, with mortality accounting for more than 75% of all skin cancers. The high metastatic potential of Melanoma is an essential factor in its high mortality. Vascular angiogenic system has been proved to be crucial for the metastasis of melanoma. An in-depth understanding of angiogenesis will be of great benefit to melanoma treatment and may promote the development of melanoma therapies. This review summarizes the recent advances and challenges of anti-angiogenic agents, including monoclonal antibodies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, human recombinant Endostatin, and traditional Chinese herbal medicine. We hope to provide a better understanding of the mechanisms, clinical research progress, and future research directions of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuzhu Wu
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,Institute for Literature and Culture of Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yifei Bian
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Tianjiao Chu
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yuman Wang
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shuai Man
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Basic Research, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,*Correspondence: Shuai Man, ; Yongmei Song, ; Zhenguo Wang,
| | - Yongmei Song
- Institute for Literature and Culture of Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,*Correspondence: Shuai Man, ; Yongmei Song, ; Zhenguo Wang,
| | - Zhenguo Wang
- Institute for Literature and Culture of Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,*Correspondence: Shuai Man, ; Yongmei Song, ; Zhenguo Wang,
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Steinhoff M, Alam M, Ahmad A, Uddin S, Buddenkotte J. Targeting oncogenic transcription factors in skin malignancies: An update on cancer stemness and therapeutic outcomes. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:98-116. [PMID: 36372325 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The skin is the largest organ of the human body and prone to various diseases, including cancer; thus, provides the first line of defense against exogenous biological and non-biological agents. Skin cancer, a complex and heterogenic process, with steep incidence rate often metastasizes due to poor understanding of the underlying mechanisms of pathogenesis and clinical challenges. Indeed, accumulating evidence indicates that deregulation of transcription factors (TFs) due to genetic, epigenetic and signaling distortions plays essential role in the development of cutaneous malignancies and therapeutic challenges including cancer stemness features and reprogramming. This review highlights the recent developments exploring underlying mechanisms how deregulated TFs (e.g., NF-κB, AP-1, STAT etc.,) orchestrates cutaneous onco-pathogenesis, reprogramming, stemness and poor clinical outcomes. Along this line, bioactive drugs, and their derivatives from natural and or synthetic origin has gained attention due to their multitargeting potential, potentially safer and effective therapeutic outcome for human malignancies. We also discussed therapeutic importance of targeting aberrantly expressed TFs in skin cancers with bioactive natural products and or synthetic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Steinhoff
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha 24144, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar.
| | - Majid Alam
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Aamir Ahmad
- Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Laboratory Animal Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Joerg Buddenkotte
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
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The Roles of MiRNAs (MicroRNAs) in Melanoma Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314775. [PMID: 36499102 PMCID: PMC9736803 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, characterized by life-threatening and rapidly spreading progression. Traditional targeted therapy can alleviate tumors by inactivating hyperactive kinases such as BRAF or MEK but inevitably encounters drug resistance. The advent of immunotherapy has revolutionized melanoma treatment and significantly improved the prognosis of melanoma patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are intricately involved in innate and adaptive immunity and are implicated in melanoma immunotherapy. This systematic review describes the roles of miRNAs in regulating the functions of immune cells in skin and melanoma, as well as the involvement of miRNAs in pharmacology including the effect, resistance and immune-related adverse events of checkpoint inhibitors such as PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors, which are used for treating cutaneous, uveal and mucosal melanoma. The expressions and functions of miRNAs in immunotherapy employing tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and Toll-like receptor 9 agonists are also discussed. The prospect of innovative therapeutic strategies such as the combined administration of miRNAs and immune checkpoint inhibitors and the nanotechnology-based delivery of miRNAs are also provided. A comprehensive understanding of the interplay between miRNAs and immunotherapy is crucial for the discovery of reliable biomarkers and for the development of novel miRNA-based therapeutics against melanoma.
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Caksa S, Baqai U, Aplin AE. The future of targeted kinase inhibitors in melanoma. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 239:108200. [PMID: 35513054 PMCID: PMC10187889 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma is a cancer of the pigment-producing cells of the body and its incidence is rising. Targeted inhibitors that act against kinases in the MAPK pathway are approved for BRAF-mutant metastatic cutaneous melanoma and increase patients' survival. Response to these therapies is limited by drug resistance and is less durable than with immune checkpoint inhibition. Conversely, rare melanoma subtypes have few therapeutic options for advanced disease and MAPK pathway targeting agents show minimal anti-tumor effects. Nevertheless, there is a future for targeted kinase inhibitors in melanoma: in new applications such as adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy and in novel combinations with immunotherapies or other targeted therapies. Pre-clinical studies continue to identify tumor dependencies and their corresponding actionable drug targets, paving the way for rational targeted kinase inhibitor combinations as a personalized medicine approach for melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe Caksa
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Usman Baqai
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Andrew E Aplin
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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Kong Y, Jiang J, Huang Y, Li L, Liu X, Jin Z, Wei F, Liu X, Zhang S, Duan X, Zhang Y, Tong Q, Chen H. Endoplasmic reticulum stress in melanoma pathogenesis and resistance. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113741. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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Paris A, Tardif N, Baietti FM, Berra C, Leclair HM, Leucci E, Galibert M, Corre S. The AhR-SRC axis as a therapeutic vulnerability in BRAFi-resistant melanoma. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e15677. [PMID: 36305167 PMCID: PMC9728058 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202215677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The nongenetic mechanisms required to control tumor phenotypic plasticity and shape drug-resistance remain unclear. We show here that the Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) transcription factor directly regulates the gene expression program associated with the acquisition of resistance to BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi) in melanoma. In addition, we show in melanoma cells that canonical activation of AhR mediates the activation of the SRC pathway and promotes the acquisition of an invasive and aggressive resistant phenotype to front-line BRAFi treatment in melanoma. This nongenetic reprogramming identifies a clinically compatible approach to reverse BRAFi resistance in melanoma. Using a preclinical BRAFi-resistant PDX melanoma model, we demonstrate that SRC inhibition with dasatinib significantly re-sensitizes melanoma cells to BRAFi. Together we identify the AhR/SRC axis as a new therapeutic vulnerability to trigger resistance and warrant the introduction of SRC inhibitors during the course of the treatment in combination with front-line therapeutics to delay BRAFi resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Paris
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, INSERM, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) – UMR6290, ERL U1305RennesFrance
| | - Nina Tardif
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, INSERM, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) – UMR6290, ERL U1305RennesFrance
| | - Francesca M Baietti
- Laboratory for RNA Cancer Biology, Department of OncologyLKI, KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium,Trace PDX Platform, Department of OncologyLKI, KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Cyrille Berra
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, INSERM, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) – UMR6290, ERL U1305RennesFrance,Department of Molecular Genetics and GenomicsHospital University of Rennes (CHU Rennes)RennesFrance
| | - Héloïse M Leclair
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, INSERM, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) – UMR6290, ERL U1305RennesFrance
| | - Eleonora Leucci
- Laboratory for RNA Cancer Biology, Department of OncologyLKI, KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium,Trace PDX Platform, Department of OncologyLKI, KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Marie‐Dominique Galibert
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, INSERM, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) – UMR6290, ERL U1305RennesFrance,Department of Molecular Genetics and GenomicsHospital University of Rennes (CHU Rennes)RennesFrance
| | - Sébastien Corre
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, INSERM, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) – UMR6290, ERL U1305RennesFrance
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Paduano F, Gaudio E, Trapasso F. The Tumour Suppressor Fhit Protein Activates C-Raf Ubiquitination and Degradation in Human Melanoma Cells by Interacting with Hsp90. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102551. [PMID: 36289813 PMCID: PMC9599145 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fhit protein expression is reduced in the majority of human tumors; moreover, its restoration both triggers apoptosis of cancer cells and suppresses tumor formation in a large number of preclinical models of cancers. In the following study, we observed that Fhit expression is significantly reduced in human melanoma cells, and their in vivo growth is blocked by a recombinant adenovirus carrying the FHIT gene. Importantly, we found here that Fhit physically interacts with Hsp90. Since Hsp90 is a chaperone with a crucial function in the conformational maturation and stabilization of C-Raf, we also investigated whether Fhit could interfere with the Hsp90/C-Raf protein complex in melanoma. Interestingly, the administration of the Hsp90 inhibitor 17-AAG, in combination with Fhit protein overexpression in melanoma cells, reacts synergistically to increase C-Raf ubiquitination and degradation. These data reveal Hsp90 as a novel interactor of Fhit and suggest that FHIT activity restoration could represent a helpful strategy for suppressing the oncogenic C-Raf pathway in the therapy of human melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Paduano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Stem Cells and Medical Genetics Units, Tecnologica Research Institute and Marrelli Health, 88900 Crotone, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- DTI-Tech, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Francesco Trapasso
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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66
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Bhattarai RS, Bariwal J, Kumar V, Hao C, Deng S, Li W, Mahato RI. pH-sensitive nanomedicine of novel tubulin polymerization inhibitor for lung metastatic melanoma. J Control Release 2022; 350:569-583. [PMID: 36037976 PMCID: PMC10322201 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Microtubule binding agents such as paclitaxel and vincristine have activity in metastatic melanoma. However, even responsive tumors develop resistance, highlighting the need to investigate new drug molecules. Here, we showed that a new compound, CH-2-102, developed by our group, has high anti-tumor efficacy in human and murine melanoma cells. We confirmed that CH-2-102 robustly suppresses the microtubule polymerization process by directly interacting with the colchicine binding site. Our results unveil that CH-2-102 suppresses microtubule polymerization and subsequently induces G2 phase cell arrest as one of the possible mechanisms. Notably, CH-2-102 maintains its efficacy even in the paclitaxel resistance melanoma cells due to different binding sites and a non-Pgp substrate. We developed a pH-responsive drug-polymer Schiff bases linker for high drug loading into nanoparticles (NPs). Our CH-2-102 conjugated NPs induced tumor regression more effectively than Abraxane® (Nab-paclitaxel, N-PTX), free drug, and non-sensitive NPs in B16-F10 cell-derived lung metastasis mouse model. Furthermore, our results suggest that the formulation has a high impact on the in vivo efficacy of the drug and warrants further investigation in other cancers, particularly taxane resistant. In conclusion, the microtubule polymerization inhibitor CH-2-102 conjugated pH-responsive NPs induce tumor regression in lung metastasis melanoma mice, suggesting it may be an effective strategy for treating metastatic melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajan S Bhattarai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Jitender Bariwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Virender Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Chen Hao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Shanshan Deng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Ram I Mahato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
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67
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Romano D, García-Gutiérrez L, Aboud N, Duffy DJ, Flaherty KT, Frederick DT, Kolch W, Matallanas D. Proteasomal down-regulation of the proapoptotic MST2 pathway contributes to BRAF inhibitor resistance in melanoma. Life Sci Alliance 2022; 5:5/10/e202201445. [PMID: 36038253 PMCID: PMC9434705 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202201445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The loss of MST2 pathway protein expression in BRAF inhibitor resistant melanoma cells is due to ubiquitination and subsequent proteasomal degradation and prevents MST2-mediated apoptosis. The RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway is hyperactivated in most malignant melanomas, and mutations in BRAF or NRAS account for most of these cases. BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) are highly efficient for treating patients with BRAFV600E mutations, but tumours frequently acquire resistance within a few months. Multiple resistance mechanisms have been identified, due to mutations or network adaptations that revive ERK signalling. We have previously shown that RAF proteins inhibit the MST2 proapoptotic pathway in a kinase-independent fashion. Here, we have investigated the role of the MST2 pathway in mediating resistance to BRAFi. We show that the BRAFV600E mutant protein, but not the wild-type BRAF protein, binds to MST2 inhibiting its proapoptotic signalling. Down-regulation of MST2 reduces BRAFi-induced apoptosis. In BRAFi-resistant cell lines, MST2 pathway proteins are down-regulated by ubiquitination and subsequent proteasomal degradation rendering cells refractory to MST2 pathway–induced apoptosis. Restoration of apoptosis can be achieved by increasing MST2 pathway protein expression using proteasome inhibitors. In summary, we show that the MST2 pathway plays a role in the acquisition of BRAFi resistance in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Romano
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Nourhan Aboud
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David J Duffy
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Biology/Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Walter Kolch
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland .,Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David Matallanas
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Rashid S, Shaughnessy M, Tsao H. Melanoma classification and management in the era of molecular medicine. Dermatol Clin 2022; 41:49-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.det.2022.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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69
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Lopes J, Rodrigues CMP, Gaspar MM, Reis CP. Melanoma Management: From Epidemiology to Treatment and Latest Advances. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4652. [PMID: 36230575 PMCID: PMC9562203 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the deadliest skin cancer, whose morbidity and mortality indicators show an increasing trend worldwide. In addition to its great heterogeneity, melanoma has a high metastatic potential, resulting in very limited response to therapies currently available, which were restricted to surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy for many years. Advances in knowledge about the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease have allowed the development of new therapeutic classes, such as immune checkpoint and small molecule kinase inhibitors. However, despite the incontestable progress in the quality of life and survival rates of the patients, effectiveness is still far from desired. Some adverse side effects and resistance mechanisms are the main barriers. Thus, the search for better options has resulted in many clinical trials that are now investigating new drugs and/or combinations. The low water solubility of drugs, low stability and rapid metabolism limit the clinical potential and therapeutic use of some compounds. Thus, the research of nanotechnology-based strategies is being explored as the basis for the broad application of different types of nanosystems in the treatment of melanoma. Future development focus on challenges understanding the mechanisms that make these nanosystems more effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Lopes
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed.ULisboa—Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Cecília M. P. Rodrigues
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed.ULisboa—Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Manuela Gaspar
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed.ULisboa—Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina Pinto Reis
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed.ULisboa—Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica, IBEB, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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70
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Kurzhals JK, Klee G, Hagelstein V, Zillikens D, Terheyden P, Langan EA. Disease Recurrence during Adjuvant Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Treatment in Metastatic Melanoma: Clinical, Laboratory, and Radiological Characteristics in Patients from a Single Tertiary Referral Center. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10723. [PMID: 36142629 PMCID: PMC9505359 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the dramatic improvements in recurrence-free survival in patients with metastatic melanoma treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), a number of patients develop metastases during adjuvant therapy. It is not currently possible to predict which patients are most likely to develop disease recurrence due to a lack of reliable biomarkers. Thus, we retrospectively analyzed the case records of all patients who commenced adjuvant ICI therapy between January 2018 and December 2021 in a single university skin cancer center (n = 46) (i) to determine the rates of disease recurrence, (ii) to examine the utility of established markers, and (iii) to examine whether re-challenge with immunotherapy resulted in clinical response. Twelve out of forty-six (26%) patients developed a relapse on adjuvant immunotherapy in our cohort, and the median time to relapse was 139 days. Adjuvant immunotherapy was continued in three patients. Of the twelve patients who developed recurrence during adjuvant immunotherapy, seven had further disease recurrence within the observation period, with a median time of 112 days after the first progress. There was no significant difference comparing early recurrence (<180 days after initiation) on adjuvant immunotherapy to late recurrence (>180 days after initiation) on adjuvant immunotherapy. Classical tumor markers, including serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and S-100, were unreliable for the detection of disease recurrence. Baseline lymphocyte and eosinophil counts and those during immunotherapy were not associated with disease recurrence. Interestingly, patients with NRAS mutations were disproportionately represented (60%) in the patients who developed disease recurrence, suggesting that these patients should be closely monitored during adjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas K. Kurzhals
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, 23552 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Gina Klee
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, 23552 Lübeck, Germany
| | | | - Detlef Zillikens
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, 23552 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Patrick Terheyden
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, 23552 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ewan A. Langan
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, 23552 Lübeck, Germany
- Dermatological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PR, UK
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NAD/NAMPT and mTOR Pathways in Melanoma: Drivers of Drug Resistance and Prospective Therapeutic Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179985. [PMID: 36077374 PMCID: PMC9456568 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma represents the most fatal skin cancer due to its aggressive behavior and high metastatic potential. The introduction of BRAF/MEK inhibitors and immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in the clinic has dramatically improved patient survival over the last decade. However, many patients either display primary (i.e., innate) or develop secondary (i.e., acquired) resistance to systemic treatments. Therapeutic resistance relies on the rewiring of multiple processes, including cancer metabolism, epigenetics, gene expression, and interactions with the tumor microenvironment that are only partially understood. Therefore, reliable biomarkers of resistance or response, capable of facilitating the choice of the best treatment option for each patient, are currently missing. Recently, activation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) metabolism and, in particular, of its rate-limiting enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) have been identified as key drivers of targeted therapy resistance and melanoma progression. Another major player in this context is the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, which plays key roles in the regulation of melanoma cell anabolic functions and energy metabolism at the switch between sensitivity and resistance to targeted therapy. In this review, we summarize known resistance mechanisms to ICIs and targeted therapy, focusing on metabolic adaptation as one main mechanism of drug resistance. In particular, we highlight the roles of NAD/NAMPT and mTOR signaling axes in this context and overview data in support of their inhibition as a promising strategy to overcome treatment resistance.
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72
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Treatment of Metastatic Melanoma with a Combination of Immunotherapies and Molecularly Targeted Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153779. [PMID: 35954441 PMCID: PMC9367420 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Immunotherapies and molecularly targeted therapies have drastically changed the therapeutic approach for unresectable advanced or metastatic melanoma. The majority of melanoma patients have benefitted from these therapies; however, some patients acquire resistance to them. Novel combinations of immunotherapies and molecularly targeted therapies may be more efficient in treating these patients. In this review, we discuss various combination therapies under pre-clinical and clinical development which can reduce toxicity, enhance efficacy, and prevent recurrences in patients with metastatic melanoma. Abstract Melanoma possesses invasive metastatic growth patterns and is one of the most aggressive types of skin cancer. In 2021, it is estimated that 7180 deaths were attributed to melanoma in the United States alone. Once melanoma metastasizes, traditional therapies are no longer effective. Instead, immunotherapies, such as ipilimumab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab, are the treatment options for malignant melanoma. Several biomarkers involved in tumorigenesis have been identified as potential targets for molecularly targeted melanoma therapy, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Unfortunately, melanoma quickly acquires resistance to these molecularly targeted therapies. To bypass resistance, combination treatment with immunotherapies and single or multiple TKIs have been employed and have been shown to improve the prognosis of melanoma patients compared to monotherapy. This review discusses several combination therapies that target melanoma biomarkers, such as BRAF, MEK, RAS, c-KIT, VEGFR, c-MET and PI3K. Several of these regimens are already FDA-approved for treating metastatic melanoma, while others are still in clinical trials. Continued research into the causes of resistance and factors influencing the efficacy of these combination treatments, such as specific mutations in oncogenic proteins, may further improve the effectiveness of combination therapies, providing a better prognosis for melanoma patients.
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PTEN Dual Lipid- and Protein-Phosphatase Function in Tumor Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153666. [PMID: 35954330 PMCID: PMC9367293 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) is a multifunctional tumor suppressor with protein- and lipid-phosphatase activities. The inactivation of PTEN is commonly found in all human cancers and is correlated with tumor progression. PTEN-lipid-phosphatase activity has been well documented to dephosphorylate phosphatidylinositol-3, 4, 5-phosphate (PIP3), which hinders cell growth and survival by dampening the PI3K and AKT signaling activity. PTEN-protein-phosphatase activity is less well studied and understood. Recent studies have reported that PTEN-protein-phosphatase activity dephosphorylates the different proteins and acts in various cell functions. We here review the PTEN mutations and protein-phosphatase substrates in tumor progression. We aim to address the gap in our understanding as to how PTEN protein phosphatase contributes to its tumor-suppression functions. Abstract PTEN is the second most highly mutated tumor suppressor in cancer, following only p53. The PTEN protein functions as a phosphatase with lipid- and protein-phosphatase activity. PTEN-lipid-phosphatase activity dephosphorylates PIP3 to form PIP2, and it then antagonizes PI3K and blocks the activation of AKT, while its protein-phosphatase activity dephosphorylates different protein substrates and plays various roles in tumorigenesis. Here, we review the PTEN mutations and protein-phosphatase substrates in tumorigenesis and metastasis. Our purpose is to clarify how PTEN protein phosphatase contributes to its tumor-suppressive functions through PI3K-independent activities.
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74
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Bokharaie H, Kolch W, Krstic A. Analysis of Alternative mRNA Splicing in Vemurafenib-Resistant Melanoma Cells. Biomolecules 2022; 12:993. [PMID: 35883549 PMCID: PMC9312936 DOI: 10.3390/biom12070993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Alternative mRNA splicing is common in cancers. In BRAF V600E-mutated malignant melanoma, a frequent mechanism of acquired resistance to BRAF inhibitors involves alternative splicing (AS) of BRAF. The resulting shortened BRAF protein constitutively dimerizes and conveys drug resistance. Here, we have analysed AS in SK-MEL-239 melanoma cells and a BRAF inhibitor (vemurafenib)-resistant derivative that expresses an AS, shortened BRAF V600E transcript. Transcriptome analysis showed differential expression of spliceosome components between the two cell lines. As there is no consensus approach to analysing AS events, we used and compared four common AS softwares based on different principles, DEXSeq, rMATS, ASpli, and LeafCutter. Two of them correctly identified the BRAF V600E AS in the vemurafenib-resistant cells. Only 12 AS events were identified by all four softwares. Testing the AS predictions experimentally showed that these overlapping predictions are highly accurate. Interestingly, they identified AS caused alterations in the expression of melanin synthesis and cell migration genes in the vemurafenib-resistant cells. This analysis shows that combining different AS analysis approaches produces reliable results and meaningful, biologically testable hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honey Bokharaie
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland; (H.B.); (W.K.)
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Walter Kolch
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland; (H.B.); (W.K.)
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Aleksandar Krstic
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland; (H.B.); (W.K.)
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75
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Chen H, Hou K, Yu J, Wang L, Chen X. Nanoparticle-Based Combination Therapy for Melanoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:928797. [PMID: 35837089 PMCID: PMC9273962 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.928797] [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: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a cutaneous carcinoma, and its incidence is rapidly increasing with every year. The treatment options for melanoma have been comprehensively studied. Conventional treatment methods (e.g., radiotherapy, chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy) with surgical removal inevitably cause serious complications; moreover, resistance is common. Nanoparticles (NPs) combined with conventional methods are new and promising options to treat melanoma, and many combinations have been achieving good success. Due to their physical and biological features, NPs can help target intended melanoma cells more efficiently with less damage. This creates new hope for a better treatment strategy for melanoma with minimum damage and maximum efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Chen
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Hou
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Le Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue Chen
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Reddi KK, Guruvaiah P, Edwards YJK, Gupta R. Changes in the Transcriptome and Chromatin Landscape in BRAFi-Resistant Melanoma Cells. Front Oncol 2022; 12:937831. [PMID: 35785205 PMCID: PMC9247198 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.937831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic and drug-resistant melanoma are leading causes of skin cancer-associated death. Mitogen-associated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway inhibitors and immunotherapies have provided substantial benefits to patients with melanoma. However, long-term therapeutic efficacy has been limited due to emergence of treatment resistance. Despite the identification of several molecular mechanisms underlying the development of resistant phenotypes, significant progress has still not been made toward the effective treatment of drug-resistant melanoma. Therefore, the identification of new targets and mechanisms driving drug resistance in melanoma represents an unmet medical need. In this study, we performed unbiased RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) and assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing (ATAC-seq) to identify new targets and mechanisms that drive resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors targeting BRAF and MAPK kinase (MEK) in BRAF-mutant melanoma cells. An integrative analysis of ATAC-seq combined with RNA-seq showed that global changes in chromatin accessibility affected the mRNA expression levels of several known and novel genes, which consequently modulated multiple oncogenic signaling pathways to promote resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors in melanoma cells. Many of these genes were also associated with prognosis predictions in melanoma patients. This study resulted in the identification of new genes and signaling pathways that might be targeted to treat MEK or BRAF inhibitors resistant melanoma patients. The present study applied new and advanced approaches to identify unique changes in chromatin accessibility regions that modulate gene expression associated with pathways to promote the development of resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Kumar Reddi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Praveen Guruvaiah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Yvonne J. K. Edwards
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Romi Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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Fröhlich LM, Makino E, Sinnberg T, Schittek B. Enhanced Expression of p21 Promotes Sensitivity of Melanoma Cells Towards Targeted Therapies. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:1243-1252. [PMID: 35514255 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma patients benefit from the approved targeted BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi) therapy. Despite the great progress in the therapeutic approach to combat metastatic melanoma, fast emerging drug resistance in patients limits its long-term efficacy. In this study we aimed to unravel the role of the p53 target gene CDKN1A/p21 in the response of melanoma cells towards BRAFi. We show that p53 activation increases BRAFi sensitivity in a synergistic manner exclusively in cells with a high expression of CDKN1A/p21. In a similar way high expression of p21 was associated with a better response towards the mouse double minute 2 inhibitor (MDM2i) compared to those with low p21 expression. Indeed, p21 knockdown decreased the sensitivity towards both targeted therapies. The results indicate that the sensitivity of melanoma cells towards targeted therapies (BRAFi and MDM2i) is dependent on the p21 protein level in the cells. In addition to that, we found that p53 negatively regulates p73 expression, however, p73 seems not to have an influence on p53 expression. These findings offer new potential strategies for the treatment improvement of melanoma patients with high basal p21 levels with BRAFi by increasing treatment efficacy using combination therapies with p53 activating substances, which are able to further increase p21 expression levels. Furthermore, the data suggest that the expression and induction level of p21 could be used as a predictive biomarker in melanoma patients to forecast the outcome of a treatment with p53 activating substances and BRAFi. All in all, this manuscript shows the distinct roles and of the p53 family members and its impact on melanoma therapy. In the future, individualized treatment regimens based on p21 basal and induction levels could benefit melanoma patients with limited treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Marie Fröhlich
- Division of Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Elena Makino
- Division of Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Sinnberg
- Division of Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Birgit Schittek
- Division of Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Cerqueira OLD, Antunes F, Assis NG, Cardoso EC, Clavijo-Salomón MA, Domingues AC, Tessarollo NG, Strauss BE. Perspectives for Combining Viral Oncolysis With Additional Immunotherapies for the Treatment of Melanoma. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:777775. [PMID: 35495634 PMCID: PMC9048901 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.777775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer with steadily increasing incidence worldwide during the last few decades. In addition to its tumor associated antigens (TAAs), melanoma has a high mutation rate compared to other tumors, which promotes the appearance of tumor specific antigens (TSAs) as well as increased lymphocytic infiltration, inviting the use of therapeutic tools that evoke new or restore pre-existing immune responses. Innovative therapeutic proposals, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), have emerged as effective options for melanoma. However, a significant portion of these patients relapse and become refractory to treatment. Likewise, strategies using viral vectors, replicative or not, have garnered confidence and approval by different regulatory agencies around the world. It is possible that further success of immune therapies against melanoma will come from synergistic combinations of different approaches. In this review we outline molecular features inherent to melanoma and how this supports the use of viral oncolysis and immunotherapies when used as monotherapies or in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otto Luiz Dutra Cerqueira
- Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia (CTO)/LIM, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Antunes
- Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia (CTO)/LIM, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nadine G Assis
- Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia (CTO)/LIM, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elaine C Cardoso
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria A Clavijo-Salomón
- Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia (CTO)/LIM, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana C Domingues
- Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia (CTO)/LIM, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nayara G Tessarollo
- Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia (CTO)/LIM, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bryan E Strauss
- Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia (CTO)/LIM, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Bryan E Strauss,
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Schäfer MEA, Keller F, Schumacher J, Haas H, Vascotto F, Sahin U, Hafner M, Rudolf R. 3D Melanoma Cocultures as Improved Models for Nanoparticle-Mediated Delivery of RNA to Tumors. Cells 2022; 11:cells11061026. [PMID: 35326474 PMCID: PMC8946997 DOI: 10.3390/cells11061026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapy is an emergent application for mRNA therapeutics. While in tumor immunotherapy, mRNA encoding for tumor-associated antigens is delivered to antigen-presenting cells in spleen and lymph nodes, other therapeutic options benefit from immediate delivery of mRNA nanomedicines directly to the tumor. However, tumor targeting of mRNA therapeutics is still a challenge, since, in addition to delivery of the cargo to the tumor, specifics of the targeted cell type as well as its interplay with the tumor microenvironment are crucial for successful intervention. This study investigated lipoplex nanoparticle-mediated mRNA delivery to spheroid cell culture models of melanoma. Insights into cell-type specific targeting, non-cell-autonomous effects, and penetration capacity in tumor and stroma cells of the mRNA lipoplex nanoparticles were obtained. It was shown that both coculture of different cell types as well as three-dimensional cell growth characteristics can modulate distribution and transfection efficiency of mRNA lipoplex formulations. The results demonstrate that three-dimensional coculture spheroids can provide a valuable surplus of information in comparison to adherent cells. Thus, they may represent in vitro models with enhanced predictivity for the in vivo activity of cancer nanotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian E. A. Schäfer
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Hochschule Mannheim, 68163 Mannheim, Germany; (M.E.A.S.); (F.K.); (M.H.)
| | - Florian Keller
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Hochschule Mannheim, 68163 Mannheim, Germany; (M.E.A.S.); (F.K.); (M.H.)
| | - Jens Schumacher
- Biopharmaceutical New Technology (BioNTech) SE, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (J.S.); (H.H.); (U.S.)
| | - Heinrich Haas
- Biopharmaceutical New Technology (BioNTech) SE, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (J.S.); (H.H.); (U.S.)
| | - Fulvia Vascotto
- Translational Oncology (TRON), University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Ugur Sahin
- Biopharmaceutical New Technology (BioNTech) SE, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (J.S.); (H.H.); (U.S.)
| | - Mathias Hafner
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Hochschule Mannheim, 68163 Mannheim, Germany; (M.E.A.S.); (F.K.); (M.H.)
- Institute of Medical Technology, Heidelberg University and Hochschule Mannheim, 68163 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Rudolf
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Hochschule Mannheim, 68163 Mannheim, Germany; (M.E.A.S.); (F.K.); (M.H.)
- Institute of Medical Technology, Heidelberg University and Hochschule Mannheim, 68163 Mannheim, Germany
- Center for Mass Spectrometry and Optical Spectroscopy (CeMOS), Hochschule Mannheim, 68163 Mannheim, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-621-292-6804
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80
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Castro KADF, Prandini JA, Biazzotto JC, Tomé JPC, da Silva RS, Lourenço LMO. The Surprisingly Positive Effect of Zinc-Phthalocyanines With High Photodynamic Therapy Efficacy of Melanoma Cancer. Front Chem 2022; 10:825716. [PMID: 35360535 PMCID: PMC8964275 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.825716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalocyanine (Pc) dyes are photoactive molecules that can absorb and emit light in the visible spectrum, especially in the red region of the spectrum, with great potential for biological scopes. For this target, it is important to guarantee a high Pc solubility, and the use of suitable pyridinium units on their structure can be a good strategy to use effective photosensitizers (PSs) for photodynamic therapy (PDT) against cancer cells. Zn(II) phthalocyanines (ZnPcs) conjugated with thiopyridinium units (1–3) were evaluated as PS drugs against B16F10 melanoma cells, and their photophysical, photochemical, and in vitro photobiological properties were determined. The photodynamic efficiency of the tetra- and octa-cationic ZnPcs 1–3 was studied and compared at 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 µM. The different number of charge units, and the presence/absence of a-F atoms on the Pc structure, contributes for their PDT efficacy. The 3-(4′,5′-dimethylthiazol-2′-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays on B16F10 melanoma cells show a moderate to high capacity to be photoinactivated by ZnPcs 1–3 (ZnPc 1 > ZnPc 2 > ZnPc 3). The best PDT conditions were found at a Pc concentration of 20 μM, under red light (λ = 660 ± 20 nm) at an irradiance of 4.5 mW/cm2 for 667 s (light dose of 3 J/cm2). In these conditions, it is noteworthy that the cationic ZnPc 1 shows a promising photoinactivation ratio, reaching the detection limit of the MTT method. Moreover, these results are comparable to the better ones in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A. D. F. Castro
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Juliana A. Prandini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Juliana Cristina Biazzotto
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - João P. C. Tomé
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences & Departamento de Engenharia Química, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Roberto S. da Silva
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Roberto S. da Silva, ; Leandro M. O. Lourenço,
| | - Leandro M. O. Lourenço
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Chemistry Department, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Roberto S. da Silva, ; Leandro M. O. Lourenço,
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81
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da Silva GB, Yamauchi MA, Zanini D, Bagatini MD. Novel possibility for cutaneous melanoma treatment by means of rosmarinic acid action on purinergic signaling. Purinergic Signal 2022; 18:61-81. [PMID: 34741236 PMCID: PMC8570242 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-021-09821-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cases have increased significantly in Brazil and worldwide, with cutaneous melanoma (CM) being responsible for nearly 57,000 deaths in the world. Thus, this review article aims at exploring and proposed hypotheses with respect to the possibility that RA can be a promising and alternative compound to be used as an adjuvant in melanoma treatment, acting on purinergic signaling. The scarcity of articles evidencing the action of this compound in this signaling pathway requires further studies. Considering diverse evidence found in the literature, we hypothesize that RA can be an effective candidate for the treatment of CM acting as a modulating molecule of purinergic cellular pathway through P2X7 blocking, mitigating the Warburg effect, and as antagonic molecule of the P2Y12 receptor, reducing the formation of adhesive molecules that prevent adherence in tumor cells. In this way, our proposals for CM treatment based on targeting purinergic signaling permeate the integral practice, going from intracell to extracell. Undoubtedly, much is still to be discovered and elucidated about this promising compound, this paper being an interesting work baseline to support more research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilnei Bruno da Silva
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Fronteira Sul, Chapecó, SC, 89815-899, Brazil
| | - Milena Ayumi Yamauchi
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Fronteira Sul, Chapecó, SC, 89815-899, Brazil
| | - Daniela Zanini
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Fronteira Sul, Chapecó, SC, 89815-899, Brazil
| | - Margarete Dulce Bagatini
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Fronteira Sul, Chapecó, SC, 89815-899, Brazil.
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82
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SOX8 promotes cetuximab resistance via HGF/MET bypass pathway activation in colorectal cancer. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2022; 89:441-449. [PMID: 35195773 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-021-04378-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
AIM Cetuximab is an essential drug for the treatment of wild-type K-RAS colorectal cancer (CRC). It improves the overall survival of patients. However, acquired resistance prevents its clinical efficacy. Tumor heterogeneity may be a nonnegligible reason for cetuximab resistance. We attempted to explore the corresponding molecular mechanism. METHODS Cetuximab-resistant CRC cell RKO and cetuximab-sensitive CRC cell Caco-2 were applied in this study. Cells were centrifuged to determine the concentration in the culture supernatant (CS). MTT, EdU, and colony formation assays were utilized to evaluate cell survival and proliferation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and promoter-luciferase reporter assays were employed to confirm the direct binding of transcription factors. Western blot and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays were used to detect the expression of molecular markers in the pathway. RESULTS Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) was up-regulated in RKO cell culture supernatant and induced cetuximab resistance in Caco-2 cells. SRY-Box Transcription Factor 8 (SOX8) bound to the promoter sequence of HGF. HGF activated the HGF/MET bypass pathway and induced cetuximab resistance in Caco-2 cells. CONCLUSION The SOX8/HGF/MET axis played a crucial role in the communication between cetuximab-resistant cells and cetuximab-sensitive cells, inducing treatment resistance.
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83
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Rok J, Rzepka Z, Kowalska J, Banach K, Beberok A, Wrześniok D. The Anticancer Potential of Doxycycline and Minocycline-A Comparative Study on Amelanotic Melanoma Cell Lines. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020831. [PMID: 35055021 PMCID: PMC8775630 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is still a serious medical problem. Relatively high mortality, a still-growing number of newly diagnosed cases, and insufficiently effective methods of therapy necessitate melanoma research. Tetracyclines are compounds with pleiotropic pharmacological properties. Previously published studies on melanotic melanoma cells ascertained that minocycline and doxycycline exerted an anti-melanoma effect. The purpose of the study was to assess the anti-melanoma potential and mechanisms of action of minocycline and doxycycline using A375 and C32 human amelanotic melanoma cell lines. The obtained results indicate that the tested drugs inhibited proliferation, decreased cell viability, and induced apoptosis in amelanotic melanoma cells. The treatment caused changes in the cell cycle profile and decreased the intracellular level of reduced thiols and mitochondrial membrane potential. The exposure of A375 and C32 cells to minocycline and doxycycline triggered the release of cytochrome c and activated initiator and effector caspases. The anti-melanoma effect of analyzed drugs appeared to be related to the up-regulation of ERK1/2 and MITF. Moreover, it was noticed that minocycline and doxycycline increased the level of LC3A/B, an autophagy marker, in A375 cells. In summary, the study showed the pleiotropic anti-cancer action of minocycline and doxycycline against amelanotic melanoma cells. Considering all results, it could be concluded that doxycycline was a more potent drug than minocycline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Rok
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-32-364-15-47
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84
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Del Mistro G, Riemann S, Schindler S, Beissert S, Kontermann RE, Ginolhac A, Halder R, Presta L, Sinkkonen L, Sauter T, Kulms D. Focal adhesion kinase plays a dual role in TRAIL resistance and metastatic outgrowth of malignant melanoma. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:54. [PMID: 35022419 PMCID: PMC8755828 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04502-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite remarkable advances in therapeutic interventions, malignant melanoma (MM) remains a life-threating disease. Following high initial response rates to targeted kinase-inhibition metastases quickly acquire resistance and present with enhanced tumor progression and invasion, demanding alternative treatment options. We show 2nd generation hexameric TRAIL-receptor-agonist IZI1551 (IZI) to effectively induce apoptosis in MM cells irrespective of the intrinsic BRAF/NRAS mutation status. Conditioning to the EC50 dose of IZI converted the phenotype of IZI-sensitive parental MM cells into a fast proliferating and invasive, IZI-resistant metastasis. Mechanistically, we identified focal adhesion kinase (FAK) to play a dual role in phenotype-switching. In the cytosol, activated FAK triggers survival pathways in a PI3K- and MAPK-dependent manner. In the nucleus, the FERM domain of FAK prevents activation of wtp53, as being expressed in the majority of MM, and consequently intrinsic apoptosis. Caspase-8-mediated cleavage of FAK as well as FAK knockdown, and pharmacological inhibition, respectively, reverted the metastatic phenotype-switch and restored IZI responsiveness. FAK inhibition also re-sensitized MM cells isolated from patient metastasis that had relapsed from targeted kinase inhibition to cell death, irrespective of the intrinsic BRAF/NRAS mutation status. Hence, FAK-inhibition alone or in combination with 2nd generation TRAIL-receptor agonists may be recommended for treatment of initially resistant and relapsed MM, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Del Mistro
- Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, TU-Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Shamala Riemann
- Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, TU-Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sebastian Schindler
- Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, TU-Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases Dresden, TU-Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefan Beissert
- Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, TU-Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Roland E Kontermann
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology and Stuttgart Research Centre Systems Biology, University of Stuttgart, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Aurelien Ginolhac
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, 4367, Luxembourg
| | - Rashi Halder
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, 4367, Luxembourg
| | - Luana Presta
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, 4367, Luxembourg
| | - Lasse Sinkkonen
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, 4367, Luxembourg
| | - Thomas Sauter
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, 4367, Luxembourg
| | - Dagmar Kulms
- Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, TU-Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
- National Center for Tumor Diseases Dresden, TU-Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
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85
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Zhong J, Yan W, Wang C, Liu W, Lin X, Zou Z, Sun W, Chen Y. BRAF Inhibitor Resistance in Melanoma: Mechanisms and Alternative Therapeutic Strategies. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2022; 23:1503-1521. [PMID: 36181568 PMCID: PMC9596525 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-022-01006-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Melanoma is caused by a variety of somatic mutations, and among these mutations, BRAF mutation occurs most frequently and has routinely been evaluated as a critical diagnostic biomarker in clinical practice. The introduction of targeted agents for BRAF-mutant melanoma has significantly improved overall survival in a large proportion of patients. However, there is BRAF inhibitor resistance in most patients, and its mechanisms are complicated and need further clarification. Additionally, treatment approaches to overcome resistance have evolved rapidly, shifting from monotherapy to multimodality treatment, which has dramatically improved patient outcomes in clinical trials and practice. This review highlights the mechanisms of BRAF inhibitor resistance in melanoma and discusses the current state of its therapeutic approaches that can be further explored in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingqin Zhong
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Wangjun Yan
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunmeng Wang
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanlin Liu
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyi Lin
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Zijian Zou
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Sun
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Chen
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
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Amweg A, Tusup M, Cheng P, Picardi E, Dummer R, Levesque MP, French LE, Guenova E, Läuchli S, Kundig T, Mellett M, Pascolo S. The A to I editing landscape in melanoma and its relation to clinical outcome. RNA Biol 2022; 19:996-1006. [PMID: 35993275 PMCID: PMC9415457 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2022.2110390] [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] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA editing refers to non-transient RNA modifications that occur after transcription and prior to translation by the ribosomes. RNA editing is more widespread in cancer cells than in non-transformed cells and is associated with tumorigenesis of various cancer tissues. However, RNA editing can also generate neo-antigens that expose tumour cells to host immunosurveillance. Global RNA editing in melanoma and its relevance to clinical outcome currently remain poorly characterized. The present study compared RNA editing as well as gene expression in tumour cell lines from melanoma patients of short or long metastasis-free survival, patients relapsing or not after immuno- and targeted therapy and tumours harbouring BRAF or NRAS mutations. Overall, our results showed that NTRK gene expression can be a marker of resistance to BRAF and MEK inhibition and gives some insights of candidate genes as potential biomarkers. In addition, this study revealed an increase in Adenosine-to-Inosine editing in Alu regions and in non-repetitive regions, including the hyperediting of the MOK and DZIP3 genes in relapsed tumour samples during targeted therapy and of the ZBTB11 gene in NRAS mutated melanoma cells. Therefore, RNA editing could be a promising tool for identifying predictive markers, tumour neoantigens and targetable pathways that could help in preventing relapses during immuno- or targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austeja Amweg
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Marina Tusup
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Phil Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Ernesto Picardi
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy.,Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnologies (IBIOM), National Research Council, Bari, Italy
| | - Reinhard Dummer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Mitchell P Levesque
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Lars E French
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Dr. Philip Frost, Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Emmanuella Guenova
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland.,Department of Dermatology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Severin Läuchli
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Kundig
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Mark Mellett
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Steve Pascolo
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zürich (USZ), Zürich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
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87
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Mao R, Yang F, Zhang T, Li J. Landscape and Clinical Significance of Immune Checkpoint in Cutaneous Melanoma. Front Immunol 2021; 12:756282. [PMID: 35003069 PMCID: PMC8738081 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.756282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence of cutaneous melanoma (CM) is increasing, and its prognosis is not optimistic. Although immune checkpoint (ICP) inhibitors are effective in the treatment of CM patients, they are not effective for all CM patients. There is an urgent need for a marker to predict both the prognosis and the immunotherapy effect in patients with CM. Approaches Two groups of patients with greatly different prognosis and response to immunotherapy were identified by unwatched cluster exploration of TCGA on the basis of 34 ICPs. The prognosis and immunotherapy effect of CM were predicted by developing a precise and given signature on the basis of ICPs, and a multivariate Cox risk regression model was established from the TCGA cohort consisting of 454 CM samples. The model was validated in 210 and 231 samples in the test and verification cohorts, respectively. Results The prognosis in clinical subgroups was predicted by the classification system. High-risk patients had poorer responses to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Finally, the signature was recognized as an independent prognostic factor. Based on checkpoint-based signature (ICPBS) and clinical characteristics, we constructed a nomogram for the prognosis in patients with CM, which was superior to ICPBS in efficacy than ICPBS alone. Conclusion As a useful prognostic tool to further improve cancer immunotherapy, the signature can accurately predict recurrence and overall survival among patients with CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Mao
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Emergency Department, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University School of Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tongtong Zhang
- The Center of Gastrointestinal and Minimally Invasive Surgery, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
- Medical Research Center, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ji Li
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Aging Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Enhancing Therapeutic Approaches for Melanoma Patients Targeting Epigenetic Modifiers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246180. [PMID: 34944799 PMCID: PMC8699560 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246180] [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: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the least common but deadliest type of skin cancer. Melanomagenesis is driven by a series of mutations and epigenetic alterations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes that allow melanomas to grow, evolve, and metastasize. Epigenetic alterations can also lead to immune evasion and development of resistance to therapies. Although the standard of care for melanoma patients includes surgery, targeted therapies, and immune checkpoint blockade, other therapeutic approaches like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immune cell-based therapies are used for patients with advanced disease or unresponsive to the conventional first-line therapies. Targeted therapies such as the use of BRAF and MEK inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors such as anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA4 only improve the survival of a small subset of patients. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify alternative standalone or combinatorial therapies. Epigenetic modifiers have gained attention as therapeutic targets as they modulate multiple cellular and immune-related processes. Due to melanoma's susceptibility to extrinsic factors and reversible nature, epigenetic drugs are investigated as a therapeutic avenue and as adjuvants for targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors, as they can sensitize and/or reverse resistance to these therapies, thus enhancing their therapeutic efficacy. This review gives an overview of the role of epigenetic changes in melanoma progression and resistance. In addition, we evaluate the latest advances in preclinical and clinical research studying combinatorial therapies and discuss the use of epigenetic drugs such as HDAC and DNMT inhibitors as potential adjuvants for melanoma patients.
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Enhancing the Therapeutic Efficacy of KRAS G12C Inhibitors in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cell Models by Cotargeting the MAPK Pathway or HSP90. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2021; 2021:2721466. [PMID: 34858498 PMCID: PMC8632397 DOI: 10.1155/2021/2721466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background KRASG12C inhibitors have shown promising efficacy in early clinical trials, but drug resistance compromises their long-term benefits. Therefore, it is critical to understand the mechanisms of drug resistance and to design appropriate combinatory treatments to improve efficacy. Methods To understand the comprehensive mechanisms of drug resistance, we treated lung cancer cells with KRASG12C inhibitors for different periods and performed transcriptional profiling and signaling analysis to identify critical factors and pathways that drive drug tolerance and resistance. We also evaluated several drug combinations in vitro and in vivo to identify potentially effective therapeutics. Results We found that the feedback activation of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) may have cooperatively induced intrinsic and adaptive resistance to KRASG12C inhibitors. Notably, continuous KRAS inhibition induced a multidrug-resistant phenotype, implying that upfront combinatory treatment might be required to treat this group of patients. We also demonstrated that concurrently targeting multiple nodes in the RTK/RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK axis improved the efficacy of KRASG12C inhibitors, mainly by suppressing the reactivation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Moreover, the combined use of HSP90 and KRASG12C inhibitors effectively induced tumor regression in lung adenocarcinoma models in vitro and in vivo. Conclusion Together, our findings revealed mechanisms underlying KRASG12C inhibitors resistance and provided novel candidate combinatory strategies to improve their anticancer activity.
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Patel V, Szász I, Koroknai V, Kiss T, Balázs M. Molecular Alterations Associated with Acquired Drug Resistance during Combined Treatment with Encorafenib and Binimetinib in Melanoma Cell Lines. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13236058. [PMID: 34885166 PMCID: PMC8656772 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13236058] [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: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Combination treatment using BRAF/MEK inhibitors is a promising therapy for patients with advanced BRAFV600E/K mutant melanoma. However, acquired resistance largely limits the clinical efficacy of this drug combination. Identifying resistance mechanisms is essential to reach long-term, durable responses. During this study, we developed six melanoma cell lines with acquired resistance for BRAFi/MEKi treatment and defined the molecular alterations associated with drug resistance. We observed that the invasion of three resistant cell lines increased significantly compared to the sensitive cells. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed differentially expressed genes that were functionally linked to a variety of biological functions including epithelial-mesenchymal transition, the ROS pathway, and KRAS-signalling. Using proteome profiler array, several differentially expressed proteins were detected, which clustered into a unique pattern. Galectin showed increased expression in four resistant cell lines, being the highest in the WM1617E+BRes cells. We also observed that the resistant cells behaved differently after the withdrawal of the inhibitors, five were not drug addicted at all and did not exhibit significantly increased lethality; however, the viability of one resistant cell line (WM1617E+BRes) decreased significantly. We have selected three resistant cell lines to investigate the protein expression changes after drug withdrawal. The expression patterns of CapG, Enolase 2, and osteopontin were similar in the resistant cells after ten days of "drug holiday", but the Snail protein was only expressed in the WM1617E+BRes cells, which showed a drug-dependent phenotype, and this might be associated with drug addiction. Our results highlight that melanoma cells use several types of resistance mechanisms involving the altered expression of different proteins to bypass drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Patel
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - István Szász
- MTA-DE Public Health Research Group, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (I.S.); (V.K.)
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Viktória Koroknai
- MTA-DE Public Health Research Group, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (I.S.); (V.K.)
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Tímea Kiss
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Margit Balázs
- MTA-DE Public Health Research Group, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (I.S.); (V.K.)
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Correspondence:
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91
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Soria X, Vilardell F, Maiques Ó, Barceló C, Sisó P, de la Rosa I, Velasco A, Cuevas D, Santacana M, Gatius S, Matías-Guiu X, Rodrigo A, Macià A, Martí RM. BRAFV600E Mutant Allele Frequency (MAF) Influences Melanoma Clinicopathologic Characteristics. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5073. [PMID: 34680222 PMCID: PMC8533792 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous melanoma shows high variability regarding clinicopathological presentation, evolution and prognosis. METHODS Next generation sequencing was performed to analyze hotspot mutations in different areas of primary melanomas (MMp) and their paired metastases. Clinicopathological features were evaluated depending on the degree of variation of the BRAFV600E mutant allele frequency (MAF) in MMp. RESULTS In our cohort of 14 superficial spreading, 10 nodular melanomas and 52 metastases, 17/24 (71%) melanomas had a BRAFV600E mutation and 5/24 (21%) had a NRASQ61 mutation. We observed a high variation of BRAFV600E MAF (H-BRAFV600E) in 7/17 (41%) MMp. The H-BRAFV600E MMp were all located on the trunk, had lower Breslow and mitotic indexes and predominantly, a first nodal metastasis. Regions with spindled tumor cells (Spin) and high lymphocytic infiltrate (HInf) were more frequent in the H-BRAFV600E patients (4/7; 57%), whereas regions with epithelial tumor cells (Epit) and low lymphocytic infiltrate (LInf) were predominant (6/10; 60%) and exclusive in the low BRAFV600E MAF variation tumors (L-BRAFV600E). The H-BRAFV600E/Spin/HInf MMp patients had better prognostic features and nodal first metastasis. CONCLUSIONS The H-BRAFV600E MMp were located on the trunk, had better prognostic characteristics, such as lower Breslow and mitotic indexes as well as high lymphocytic infiltrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Soria
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova de Lleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
| | - Felip Vilardell
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova de Lleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (F.V.); (A.V.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (S.G.); (X.M.-G.)
| | - Óscar Maiques
- Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK;
| | - Carla Barceló
- Oncological Pathology Group, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), 25198 Lleida, Spain; (C.B.); (P.S.); (I.d.l.R.)
| | - Pol Sisó
- Oncological Pathology Group, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), 25198 Lleida, Spain; (C.B.); (P.S.); (I.d.l.R.)
| | - Inés de la Rosa
- Oncological Pathology Group, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), 25198 Lleida, Spain; (C.B.); (P.S.); (I.d.l.R.)
| | - Ana Velasco
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova de Lleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (F.V.); (A.V.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (S.G.); (X.M.-G.)
- Centre of Biomedical Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Dolors Cuevas
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova de Lleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (F.V.); (A.V.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (S.G.); (X.M.-G.)
- Centre of Biomedical Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Santacana
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova de Lleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (F.V.); (A.V.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (S.G.); (X.M.-G.)
- Centre of Biomedical Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sònia Gatius
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova de Lleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (F.V.); (A.V.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (S.G.); (X.M.-G.)
- Centre of Biomedical Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Xavier Matías-Guiu
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova de Lleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (F.V.); (A.V.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (S.G.); (X.M.-G.)
- Centre of Biomedical Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Rodrigo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova de Lleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
| | - Anna Macià
- Unitat de Farmacologia- Department of Experimental Medicine, Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
| | - Rosa M. Martí
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova de Lleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Universitat de Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
- Centre of Biomedical Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Hajdú T, Kovács P, Zsigrai E, Takács R, Vágó J, Cho S, Sasi-Szabó L, Becsky D, Keller-Pinter A, Emri G, Rácz K, Reglodi D, Zákány R, Juhász T. Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide Has Inhibitory Effects on Melanoma Cell Proliferation and Migration In Vitro. Front Oncol 2021; 11:681603. [PMID: 34616669 PMCID: PMC8488289 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.681603] [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: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is an endogenous neuropeptide which is distributed throughout the body. PACAP influences development of various tissues and exerts protective function during cellular stress and in some tumour formation. No evidence is available on its role in neural crest derived melanocytes and its malignant transformation into melanoma. Expression of PACAP receptors was examined in human skin samples, melanoma lesions and in a primary melanocyte cell culture. A2058 and WM35 melanoma cell lines, representing two different stages of melanoma progression, were used to investigate the effects of PACAP. PAC1 receptor was identified in melanocytes in vivo and in vitro and in melanoma cell lines as well as in melanoma lesions. PACAP administration did not alter viability but decreased proliferation of melanoma cells. With live imaging random motility, average speed, vectorial distance and maximum distance of migration of cells were reduced upon PACAP treatment. PACAP administration did not alter viability but decreased proliferation capacity of melanoma cells. On the other hand, PACAP administration decreased the migration of melanoma cell lines towards fibronectin chemoattractant in the Boyden chamber. Furthermore, the presence of the neuropeptide inhibited the invasion capability of melanoma cell lines in Matrigel chambers. In summary, we provide evidence that PACAP receptors are expressed in melanocytes and in melanoma cells. Our results also prove that various aspects of the cellular motility were inhibited by this neuropeptide. On the basis of these results, we propose PACAP signalling as a possible target in melanoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibor Hajdú
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Patrik Kovács
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Emese Zsigrai
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roland Takács
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Judit Vágó
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Sinyoung Cho
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.,Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - László Sasi-Szabó
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Dániel Becsky
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Aniko Keller-Pinter
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Emri
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Kálmán Rácz
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, PTE-MTA PACAP Research Team, Szentagothai Research Center, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Róza Zákány
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tamás Juhász
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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93
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Fiedorowicz M, Wieteska M, Rylewicz K, Kossowski B, Piątkowska-Janko E, Czarnecka AM, Toczylowska B, Bogorodzki P. Hyperpolarized 13C tracers: Technical advancements and perspectives for clinical applications. Biocybern Biomed Eng 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbe.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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94
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Hamp A, Anderson J, Sivesind TE, Szeto MD, Hadjinicolaou A. From the Cochrane Library: Systemic Treatments for Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma. JMIR DERMATOLOGY 2021; 4:e30270. [PMID: 37632820 PMCID: PMC10334959 DOI: 10.2196/30270] [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: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Austin Hamp
- Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, United States
| | - Jarett Anderson
- Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, United States
| | - Torunn E Sivesind
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Mindy D Szeto
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Andreas Hadjinicolaou
- Human Immunology Unit, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council Cancer Unit, Hutchison/MRC Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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95
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Jung T, Haist M, Kuske M, Grabbe S, Bros M. Immunomodulatory Properties of BRAF and MEK Inhibitors Used for Melanoma Therapy-Paradoxical ERK Activation and Beyond. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189890. [PMID: 34576054 PMCID: PMC8469254 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The advent of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors that directly inhibit tumor growth and of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) that boost effector T cell responses have strongly improved the treatment of metastatic melanoma. In about half of all melanoma patients, tumor growth is driven by gain-of-function mutations of BRAF (v-rat fibrosarcoma (Raf) murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B), which results in constitutive ERK activation. Patients with a BRAF mutation are regularly treated with a combination of BRAF and MEK (MAPK/ERK kinase) inhibitors. Next to the antiproliferative effects of BRAF/MEKi, accumulating preclinical evidence suggests that BRAF/MEKi exert immunomodulatory functions such as paradoxical ERK activation as well as additional effects in non-tumor cells. In this review, we present the current knowledge on the immunomodulatory functions of BRAF/MEKi as well as the non-intended effects of ICI and discuss the potential synergistic effects of ICI and MAPK inhibitors in melanoma treatment.
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96
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Liang Y, Zheng Y, Mou K, Han D, Wang L, Ge R, Meng A. Inhibition of spindle and kinetochore associated complex subunit 3 suppresses the proliferation and invasion and induced the apoptosis of cutaneous melanoma by affecting the PI3K/Akt pathway. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2021; 35:e22895. [PMID: 34423490 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Spindle and kinetochore-associated complex subunit 3 (SKA3) is reportedly a key contributor to the progression of various cancers. The present work aimed to evaluate the possible role of SKA3 in cutaneous melanoma (CM). A high SKA3 level was found in CM tissues and predicted a poor prognosis. SKA3 silencing markedly repressed the proliferation, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition and induced the apoptosis of CM cells. SKA3 silencing decreased the phosphorylation of PI3K and Akt. Akt inhibition markedly reversed SKA3 overexpression-induced oncogenic effects on CM cells. SKA3 silencing significantly prohibited the formation and growth of CM-derived xenograft tumors in nude mice in vivo. Our findings demonstrated SKA3 inhibition repressed the progression of CM by downregulating the PI3K/Akt pathway. This study indicates that SKA3 has potential as an anticancer candidate for CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan Zheng
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Kuanhou Mou
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Dan Han
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Rui Ge
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Anfeng Meng
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The Municipal People's Hospital of Baoji, Baoji, China
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97
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Si Z, Hu K. Identification of CXCL13 as an Immune-Related Biomarker Associated with Tumorigenesis and Prognosis in Cutaneous Melanoma Patients. Med Sci Monit 2021; 27:e932052. [PMID: 34247183 PMCID: PMC8280950 DOI: 10.12659/msm.932052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma is one of the most lethal tumors and its treatment is still challenging. It is urgent to detect novel therapy targets in melanoma. MATERIAL AND METHODS The GEO dataset was used to obtain a list of DEGS (differentially-expressed genes). Integrative bioinformatics analyses, including HPRD database, TCGA data, and TIMER, were performed to determine the role of CXCL13 in SKCM (skin cutaneous melanoma) progression and the immune environment. Furthermore, Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was used to measure correlations between CXCL13 and its co-expressed genes. Survival analysis, GO, and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed to investigate the role of CXCL13 in SKCM. RESULTS A total of 41 DEGs were identified in 3 GEO datasets, and 4 out of 41 DEGs are hub genes. Among the 4 hub genes, CXCL13 is involved in the most KEGG terms. CXCL13 is co-expressed with well-known immune checkpoint blockade targets, and it was associated with better overall survival. In addition, CXCL13 levels in infiltrating immune cells (neutrophil and myeloid dendritic cells) affect prognosis and survival in SKCM. Functional enrichment analysis clarified that CXCL13-co-expressed top 30 genes were associated with immune signaling pathways. Network analysis identified CXCL13 as a hub gene that interacts with CXCR5 to participate in immune-related biological process. CONCLUSIONS This study found that CXCL13 is associated with SKCM tumorigenesis and prognosis and immune infiltrations. Our result suggests that CXCL13 has great potential in development of novel immunotherapy targets in melanoma.
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98
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Berger M, Thueringer A, Franz D, Dandachi N, Talakić E, Richtig G, Richtig E, Rohrer PM, Koch L, Wolf IH, Koch C, Rainer BM, Koeller M, Pichler M, Gerritsmann H, Kashofer K, Aigelsreiter A. Circulating Tumor DNA as a Marker for Treatment Response in Metastatic Melanoma Patients Using Next-Generation Sequencing-A Prospective Feasibility Study. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3101. [PMID: 34205831 PMCID: PMC8233754 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We prospectively performed a longitudinal analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from 149 plasma samples and CT scans in Stage III and IV metastatic melanoma patients (n = 20) treated with targeted agents or immunotherapy using two custom next-generation sequencing (NGS) Ion AmpliSeq™ HD panels including 60 and 81 amplicons in 18 genes, respectively. Concordance of matching cancer-associated mutations in tissue and plasma was 73.3%. Mutant allele frequency (MAF) levels showed a range from 0.04% to 28.7%, well detectable with NGS technologies utilizing single molecule tagging like the AmpliSeq™ HD workflow. Median followup time of the tissue and/or plasma positive cohort (n = 15) was 24.6 months and median progression-free survival (PFS) was 7.8 months. Higher MAF ≥ 1% at baseline was not significantly associated with a risk of progression (Odds Ratio = 0.15; p = 0.155). Although a trend could be seen, MAF levels did not differ significantly over time between patients with and without a PFS event (p = 0.745). Depending on the cell-free DNA amount, NGS achieved a sensitivity down to 0.1% MAF and allowed for parallel analysis of multiple mutations and previously unknown mutations. Our study indicates that NGS gene panels could be useful for monitoring disease burden during therapy with ctDNA in melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Berger
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (M.B.); (E.R.); (P.M.R.); (L.K.); (I.H.W.); (C.K.); (B.M.R.)
| | - Andrea Thueringer
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (A.T.); (D.F.)
| | - Doritt Franz
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (A.T.); (D.F.)
| | - Nadia Dandachi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (N.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.)
| | - Emina Talakić
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria;
| | - Georg Richtig
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (N.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.)
| | - Erika Richtig
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (M.B.); (E.R.); (P.M.R.); (L.K.); (I.H.W.); (C.K.); (B.M.R.)
| | - Peter Michael Rohrer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (M.B.); (E.R.); (P.M.R.); (L.K.); (I.H.W.); (C.K.); (B.M.R.)
| | - Lukas Koch
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (M.B.); (E.R.); (P.M.R.); (L.K.); (I.H.W.); (C.K.); (B.M.R.)
| | - Ingrid Hildegard Wolf
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (M.B.); (E.R.); (P.M.R.); (L.K.); (I.H.W.); (C.K.); (B.M.R.)
| | - Catharina Koch
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (M.B.); (E.R.); (P.M.R.); (L.K.); (I.H.W.); (C.K.); (B.M.R.)
| | - Barbara Margaretha Rainer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (M.B.); (E.R.); (P.M.R.); (L.K.); (I.H.W.); (C.K.); (B.M.R.)
| | - Maximilian Koeller
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Martin Pichler
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (N.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.)
| | - Hanno Gerritsmann
- Medical Affairs Oncology, Novartis Pharma GmbH, 1020 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Karl Kashofer
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (A.T.); (D.F.)
| | - Ariane Aigelsreiter
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (A.T.); (D.F.)
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99
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Metabolic Interplay between the Immune System and Melanoma Cells: Therapeutic Implications. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9060607. [PMID: 34073463 PMCID: PMC8227307 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9060607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma represents the most fatal skin cancer due to its aggressive biological behavior and high metastatic potential. Treatment strategies for advanced disease have dramatically changed over the last years due to the introduction of BRAF/MEK inhibitors and immunotherapy. However, many patients either display primary (i.e., innate) or eventually develop secondary (i.e., acquired) resistance to systemic treatments. Treatment resistance depends on multiple mechanisms driven by a set of rewiring processes, which involve cancer metabolism, epigenetic, gene expression, and interactions within the tumor microenvironment. Prognostic and predictive biomarkers are needed to guide patients’ selection and treatment decisions. Indeed, there are no recognized clinical or biological characteristics that identify which patients will benefit more from available treatments, but several biomarkers have been studied with promising preliminary results. In this review, we will summarize novel tumor metabolic pathways and tumor-host metabolic crosstalk mechanisms leading to melanoma progression and drug resistance, with an overview on their translational potential as novel therapeutic targets.
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100
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Duan B, Wang C, Liu Z, Yang X. USP8 is a Novel Therapeutic Target in Melanoma Through Regulating Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Levels. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:4181-4189. [PMID: 34079371 PMCID: PMC8163583 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s300195] [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: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The hyperactivation of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-mediated pathways plays an important role in melanoma progression and resistance to therapy. The ubiquitin-specific protease 8 (USP8) is a deubiquitinating enzyme and its inhibition induces degradation of RTKs. This work explored the expression and role of USP8 in melanoma. Methods ELISA and qPCR were performed to assess USP8 expression in melanoma tissues and cells, as well as their normal counterparts. Cellular proliferation, migration and apoptosis assays were performed to determine USP8 functions in three melanoma cell lines. Western blot was performed to analyze RTK signaling in melanoma cells after USP8 inhibition. Results mRNA and protein level of USP8 were higher in melanoma cells than normal melanocytes. Higher USP8 expression was also found in tumors in the majority of melanoma patients. USP8 expression was not associated with clinicopathological features, such as age, disease stage, histology, ulceration and BRAF status. Functional analysis demonstrated that USP8 overexpression promoted melanoma cell activities and alleviated the inhibitory effects of therapeutic drugs. In contrast, USP8 knockdown suppressed melanoma cell growth, survival and migration, and augmented the inhibitory effects of therapeutic drugs. Mechanism studies revealed that USP8 inhibition remarkably reduced the expression level of multiple oncogenic RTKs, including c-Met, Kit, EGFR and GPCR. Consistently, RTK-mediated downstream pathways were disrupted in USP8-depleted cells, leading to the increased level of pro-apoptotic proteins and decreased level of anti-apoptotic proteins. Conclusion Inhibition of USP8 activity is a novel sensitizing strategy to overcome therapy resistance in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoxue Duan
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Changying Wang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeng Liu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, Hubei, People's Republic of China
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