101
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The Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a Model for Understanding RAS Proteins and their Role in Human Tumorigenesis. Cells 2018; 7:cells7020014. [PMID: 29463063 PMCID: PMC5850102 DOI: 10.3390/cells7020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2017] [Revised: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The exploitation of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a biological model for the investigation of complex molecular processes conserved in multicellular organisms, such as humans, has allowed fundamental biological discoveries. When comparing yeast and human proteins, it is clear that both amino acid sequences and protein functions are often very well conserved. One example of the high degree of conservation between human and yeast proteins is highlighted by the members of the RAS family. Indeed, the study of the signaling pathways regulated by RAS in yeast cells led to the discovery of properties that were often found interchangeable with RAS proto-oncogenes in human pathways, and vice versa. In this work, we performed an updated critical literature review on human and yeast RAS pathways, specifically highlighting the similarities and differences between them. Moreover, we emphasized the contribution of studying yeast RAS pathways for the understanding of human RAS and how this model organism can contribute to unveil the roles of RAS oncoproteins in the regulation of mechanisms important in the tumorigenic process, like autophagy.
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102
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Mihailidou C, Papakotoulas P, Papavassiliou AG, Karamouzis MV. Superior efficacy of the antifungal agent ciclopirox olamine over gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer models. Oncotarget 2018; 9:10360-10374. [PMID: 29535812 PMCID: PMC5828195 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.23164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ciclopirox olamine (CPX) is an antifungal agent that has recently demonstrated promising anti-neoplastic activity against hematologic and solid tumors. Here, we evaluated CPX compared with gemcitabine alone as well as their combination in human pancreatic cancer cell lines; BxPC-3, Panc-1, and MIA PaCa-2 and in humanized xenograft mouse models. We also examined the preclinical pharmacodynamic activity of CPX. CPX caused a pronounced decrease in cell proliferation and clonogenic growth potential. These inhibitory effects were accompanied by induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which were strongly associated with reduced Bcl-xL and survivin levels and activation of a panel of caspases, especially caspase-3, and finally resulted in apoptotic death. CPX-induced apoptosis was associated with reduced pEGFR (Y1068) and pAkt (Ser473) protein levels. Additionally, decreased proliferation was observed in CPX-treated xenografts tumors, demonstrating unique tumor regression and a profound survival benefit. Finally, we showed that CPX significantly abrogated gemcitabine-induced ROS levels in pancreatic tissues. These pre-clinical results have verified the superior antitumor efficacy of CPX over gemcitabine alone, while their combination is even more effective, providing the rationale for further clinical testing of CPX plus gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysovalantou Mihailidou
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Pavlos Papakotoulas
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- 2 Department of Medical Oncology, Theagenion Hospital, 54007 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Michalis V. Karamouzis
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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103
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Vivekanandhan S, Mukhopadhyay D. Genetic status of KRAS influences Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling: An insight into Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) mediated tumorigenesis. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 54:72-79. [PMID: 29409705 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic RAS and deregulated transforming growth factor-beta (TGF)-β signaling have been implicated in several cancers. So far, attempts to target either one of them therapeutically have been futile as both of them are involved in multiple fundamental cellular processes and the normal forms are expressed by almost all cells. Hence, their inhibition would disrupt several physiological processes. Besides, their downregulation stimulates the tumor cells to develop adaptive mechanisms and would most likely be ineffective as therapeutic targets. Furthermore, growing literature suggests that both of these signaling pathways converge to enhance tumor development. Therefore, a lot of interest has been generated to explore the areas where these pathways interface that might identify new molecules that could potentially serve as novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we focus on such convergent signaling and cross-interaction that is mediated by neuropilin-1 (NRP1), a receptor that can interact with multiple growth factors including TGF-β for promoting tumorigenesis process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Vivekanandhan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Debabrata Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL, United States.
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104
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Zhang J, Wolfgang CL, Zheng L. Precision Immuno-Oncology: Prospects of Individualized Immunotherapy for Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:E39. [PMID: 29385739 PMCID: PMC5836071 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10020039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, most commonly referring to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), remains one of the most deadly diseases, with very few effective therapies available. Emerging as a new modality of modern cancer treatments, immunotherapy has shown promises for various cancer types. Over the past decades, the potential of immunotherapy in eliciting clinical benefits in pancreatic cancer have also been extensively explored. It has been demonstrated in preclinical studies and early phase clinical trials that cancer vaccines were effective in eliciting anti-tumor immune response, but few have led to a significant improvement in survival. Despite the fact that immunotherapy with checkpoint blockade (e.g., anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 [CTLA-4] and anti-programmed cell death 1 [PD-1]/PD-L1 antibodies) has shown remarkable and durable responses in various cancer types, the application of checkpoint inhibitors in pancreatic cancer has been disappointing so far. It may, in part, due to the unique tumor microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic cancer, such as existence of excessive stromal matrix and hypovascularity, creating a TME of strong inhibitory signaling circuits and tremendous physical barriers for immune agent infiltration. This informs on the need for combination therapy approaches to engender a potent immune response that can translate to clinical benefits. On the other hand, lack of effective and validated biomarkers to stratify subgroup of patients who can benefit from immunotherapy poses further challenges for the realization of precision immune-oncology. Future studies addressing issues such as TME modulation, biomarker identification and therapeutic combination are warranted. In this review, advances in immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer were discussed and opportunities as well as challenges for personalized immune-oncology were addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Zhang
- Departments of Oncology and Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
- Pancreatic Cancer PMCoE Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Christopher L Wolfgang
- Departments of Oncology and Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
- Pancreatic Cancer PMCoE Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Lei Zheng
- Departments of Oncology and Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
- Pancreatic Cancer PMCoE Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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105
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Bennett Saidu NE, Bretagne M, Mansuet AL, Just PA, Leroy K, Cerles O, Chouzenoux S, Nicco C, Damotte D, Alifano M, Borghese B, Goldwasser F, Batteux F, Alexandre J. Dimethyl fumarate is highly cytotoxic in KRAS mutated cancer cells but spares non-tumorigenic cells. Oncotarget 2018; 9:9088-9099. [PMID: 29507676 PMCID: PMC5823659 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
KRAS mutation, one of the most common molecular alterations observed in adult carcinomas, was reported to activate the anti-oxidant program driven by the transcription factor NRF2 (Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2). We previously observed that the antitumoral effect of Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is dependent of NRF2 pathway inhibition. We used in vitro methods to examine the effect of DMF on cell death and the activation of the NRF2/DJ-1 antioxidant pathway. We report here that DMF is preferentially cytotoxic against KRAS mutated cancer cells. This effect was observed in patient-derived cancer cell lines harbouring a G12V KRAS mutation, compared with cell lines without such a mutation. In addition, KRAS*G12V over-expression in the human Caco-2 colon cancer cell line significantly promoted DMF-induced cell death, as well as DMF-induced- reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and -glutathione (GSH) depletion. Moreover, in contrast to malignant cells, our data confirms that the same concentration of DMF has no significant cytotoxic effects on non-tumorigenic human ARPE-19 retinal epithelial, murine 3T3 fibroblasts and primary mice bone marrow cells; but is rather associated with NRF2 activation, decreased ROS and increased GSH levels. Furthermore, DJ-1 down-regulation experiments showed that this protein does not play a protective role against NRF2 in non-tumorigenic cells, as it does in malignant ones. This, interestingly, could be at the root of the differential effect of DMF observed between malignant and non-tumorigenic cells. Our results suggest for the first time that the dependence on NRF2 observed in mutated KRAS malignant cells makes them more sensitive to the cytotoxic effect of DMF, which thus opens up new prospects for the therapeutic applications of DMF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marie Bretagne
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Cochin Institute, CARPEM, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Karen Leroy
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Cochin Institute, CARPEM, Paris, France.,Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Cerles
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Cochin Institute, CARPEM, Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Chouzenoux
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Cochin Institute, CARPEM, Paris, France
| | - Carole Nicco
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Cochin Institute, CARPEM, Paris, France
| | - Diane Damotte
- Department of Pathology, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Marco Alifano
- Department of Thoracic surgery, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Borghese
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - François Goldwasser
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Cochin Institute, CARPEM, Paris, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Frédéric Batteux
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Cochin Institute, CARPEM, Paris, France.,Department of Immunology, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Alexandre
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Cochin Institute, CARPEM, Paris, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
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106
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Gbelcová H, Rimpelová S, Knejzlík Z, Šáchová J, Kolář M, Strnad H, Repiská V, D'Acunto WC, Ruml T, Vítek L. Isoprenoids responsible for protein prenylation modulate the biological effects of statins on pancreatic cancer cells. Lipids Health Dis 2017; 16:250. [PMID: 29262834 PMCID: PMC5738693 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-017-0641-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Statin treatment of hypercholesterolemia is accompanied also with depletion of the mevalonate intermediates, including farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) necessary for proper function of small GTPases. These include Ras proteins, prevalently mutated in pancreatic cancer. In our study, we evaluated the effect of three key intermediates of the mevalonate pathway on GFP-K-Ras protein localization and the gene expression profile in pancreatic cancer cells after exposure to individual statins. Methods These effects were tested on MiaPaCa-2 human pancreatic cancer cells carrying a K-Ras activating mutation (G12C) after exposure to individual statins (20 μM). The effect of statins (atorvastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin, fluvastatin, cerivastatin, rosuvastatin, and pitavastatin) and mevalonate intermediates on GFP-K-Ras protein translocation was analyzed using fluorescence microscopy. The changes in gene expression induced in MiaPaCa-2 cells treated with simvastatin, FPP, GGPP, and their combinations with simvastatin were examined by whole genome DNA microarray analysis. Results All tested statins efficiently inhibited K-Ras protein trafficking from cytoplasm to the cell membrane of the MiaPaCa-2 cells. The inhibitory effect of statins on GFP-K-Ras protein trafficking was partially prevented by addition of any of the mevalonate pathway’s intermediates tested. Expressions of genes involved in metabolic and signaling pathways modulated by simvastatin treatment was normalized by the concurrent addition of FPP or GGPP. K-Ras protein trafficking within the pancreatic cancer cells is effectively inhibited by the majority of statins; the inhibition is eliminated by isoprenoid intermediates of the mevalonate pathway. Conclusions Our data indicate that the anticancer effects of statins observed in numerous studies to a large extent are mediated through isoprenoid intermediates of the mevalonate pathway, as they influence expression of genes involved in multiple intracellular pathways. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12944-017-0641-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Gbelcová
- Institute of Medical Biology, Genetics and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia.,Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Silvie Rimpelová
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Knejzlík
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Šáchová
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Kolář
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hynek Strnad
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vanda Repiská
- Institute of Medical Biology, Genetics and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Walter Cosimo D'Acunto
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Ruml
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Libor Vítek
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, and 4th Department of Internal Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
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107
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Chan E, Chiorean EG, O'Dwyer PJ, Gabrail NY, Alcindor T, Potvin D, Chao R, Hurwitz H. Phase I/II study of mocetinostat in combination with gemcitabine for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer and other advanced solid tumors. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2017; 81:355-364. [PMID: 29238851 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-017-3494-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the safety and efficacy of mocetinostat (a Class I/IV HDAC inhibitor) in combination with gemcitabine in patients with solid tumors, including pancreatic cancer. METHODS In this open-label, non-randomized Phase I/II study (NCT00372437) sequential cohorts of patients with solid tumors received gemcitabine (1000 mg/m2, day 1 of three consecutive weeks, 4-week cycles) and oral mocetinostat [50-110 mg, three times per week (TIW)]. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and recommended Phase II dose (RP2D) was determined based on dose-limiting toxicities in Cycle 1 (Phase I study). The MTD/RP2D was further evaluated in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (Phase II study) using a two-stage design. The Phase II primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR). RESULTS Forty-eight patients were enrolled into the Phase I (n = 25) and Phase II (n = 23) studies. In the Phase I study, the MTD/RP2D was mocetinostat 90 mg TIW + gemcitabine 1000 mg/m2. Grade ≥ 3 treatment-related adverse events (AEs) were reported by 81% of all patients, the most frequent being fatigue (38%) and thrombocytopenia (19%). The ORR was 11% in the Phase I study (n = 2 patients with pancreatic cancer, responses lasting for 16.8 and 4.0 months, respectively). As no responses were seen in the Phase II cohort, the study was terminated. CONCLUSIONS Mocetinostat TIW in combination with gemcitabine was associated with significant toxicities in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. The level of clinical activity of this treatment combination was not considered high enough to merit further testing in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Chan
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - E Gabriela Chiorean
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Indiana University Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Peter J O'Dwyer
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Diane Potvin
- Mirati Therapeutics Inc., 9393 Towne Centre Drive, Suite 200, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Richard Chao
- Mirati Therapeutics Inc., 9393 Towne Centre Drive, Suite 200, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA.
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108
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Borowa-Mazgaj B, Mróz A, Augustin E, Paluszkiewicz E, Mazerska Z. The overexpression of CPR and P450 3A4 in pancreatic cancer cells changes the metabolic profile and increases the cytotoxicity and pro-apoptotic activity of acridine antitumor agent, C-1748. Biochem Pharmacol 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2017.06.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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109
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Lev A, Lulla AR, Wagner J, Ralff MD, Kiehl JB, Zhou Y, Benes CH, Prabhu VV, Oster W, Astsaturov I, Dicker DT, El-Deiry WS. Anti-pancreatic cancer activity of ONC212 involves the unfolded protein response (UPR) and is reduced by IGF1-R and GRP78/BIP. Oncotarget 2017; 8:81776-81793. [PMID: 29137221 PMCID: PMC5669847 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is chemo-resistant and metastasizes early with an overall five-year survival of ∼8.2%. First-in-class imipridone ONC201 is a small molecule in clinical trials with anti-cancer activity. ONC212, a fluorinated-ONC201 analogue, shows preclinical efficacy in melanoma and hepatocellular-cancer models. We investigated efficacy of ONC201 and ONC212 against pancreatic cancer cell lines (N=16 including 9 PDX-cell lines). We demonstrate ONC212 efficacy in 4 in-vivo models including ONC201-resistant tumors. ONC212 is active in pancreatic cancer as single agent or in combination with 5-fluorouracil, irinotecan, oxaliplatin or RTK inhibitor crizotinib. Based on upregulation of pro-survival IGF1-R in some tumors, we found an active combination of ONC212 with inhibitor AG1024, including in vivo. We show a rationale for targeting pancreatic cancer using ONC212 combined with targeting the unfolded-protein response and ER chaperones such as GRP78/BIP. Our results lay the foundation to test imipridones, anti-cancer agents, in pancreatic cancer, that is refractory to most drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avital Lev
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amriti R Lulla
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jessica Wagner
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marie D Ralff
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joshua B Kiehl
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yan Zhou
- Biostatistics Department, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Igor Astsaturov
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David T Dicker
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Wafik S El-Deiry
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Azizan N, Suter MA, Liu Y, Logsdon CD. RAGE maintains high levels of NFκB and oncogenic Kras activity in pancreatic cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 493:592-597. [PMID: 28867179 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.08.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic KRas activity is central to several cancer types including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) but has been determined to be "undruggable". Recent studies have indicated that oncogenic KRas is not constitutively active but relies on a feed-forward stimulatory mechanism involving NFκB mediated inflammation. In the current study, we investigated the role of the receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) in maintaining oncogenic signaling in PDAC. We observed that there was a shift in the levels of specific RAGE isoforms and altered cellular localization in PDAC. Furthermore, inhibition of RAGE using a pharmacological antagonist, FPS-ZM1, or a blocking antibody, decreased phosphorylation of IKBα and inhibited Erk activity down-stream of Kras in PDAC cell lines. In vivo, inhibition of RAGE using FPS-ZM1 reduced the growth of PDAC syngeneic orthotopic xenografts and prolonged survival. These data indicate that RAGE plays a central role in maintaining inflammatory signaling in PDAC that benefits tumor growth. These observations support the development of approaches to inhibit the carcinogenic actions of Kras indirectly by blocking the mechanisms which maintain its activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Azizan
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Melissa A Suter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, 77030, USA
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Craig D Logsdon
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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111
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PI-273, a Substrate-Competitive, Specific Small-Molecule Inhibitor of PI4KIIα, Inhibits the Growth of Breast Cancer Cells. Cancer Res 2017; 77:6253-6266. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-0484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Revised: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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112
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The prognostic value of KRAS mutation by cell-free DNA in cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0182562. [PMID: 28796802 PMCID: PMC5552123 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0182562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
KRAS mutation has been found in various types of cancer. However, the prognostic value of KRAS mutation in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in cancer patients was conflicting. In the present study, a meta-analysis was conducted to clarify its prognostic significance. Literature searches of Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed and Web of Science were performed to identify studies related to KRAS mutation detected by cfDNA and survival in cancer patients. Two evaluators reviewed and extracted the information independently. Review Manager 5.3 software was used to perform the statistical analysis. Thirty studies were included in the present meta-analysis. Our analysis showed that KRAS mutation in cfDNA was associated with a poorer survival in cancer patients for overall survival (OS, HR 2.02, 95% CI 1.63-2.51, P<0.01) and progression-free survival (PFS, HR 1.64, 95% CI 1.27-2.13, P<0.01). In subgroup analyses, KRAS mutation in pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, non-small cell lung cancer and ovarian epithelial cancer had HRs of 2.81 (95% CI 1.83-4.30, P<0.01), 1.67 (95% CI 1.25-2.42, P<0.01), 1.64 (95% CI 1.13-2.39, P = 0.01) and 2.17 (95% 1.12-4.21, p = 0.02) for OS, respectively. In addition, the ethnicity didn't influence the prognostic value of KRAS mutation in cfDNA in cancer patients (p = 0.39). Prognostic value of KRAS mutation was slightly higher in plasma than in serum (HR 2.13 vs 1.65), but no difference was observed (p = 0.37). Briefly, KRAS mutation in cfDNA was a survival prognostic biomarker in cancer patients. Its prognostic value was different in various types of cancer.
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113
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Exosomes facilitate therapeutic targeting of oncogenic KRAS in pancreatic cancer. Nature 2017; 546:498-503. [PMID: 28607485 PMCID: PMC5538883 DOI: 10.1038/nature22341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1635] [Impact Index Per Article: 233.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The mutant form of the GTPase KRAS is a key driver of pancreatic cancer
but remains a challenging therapeutic target. Exosomes, extracellular vesicles
generated by all cells, are naturally present in the blood. Here we demonstrate
that enhanced retention of exosomes in circulation, compared to liposomes, is
due to CD47 mediated protection of exosomes from phagocytosis by monocytes and
macrophages. Exosomes derived from normal fibroblast-like mesenchymal cells were
engineered to carry siRNA or shRNA specific to oncogenic KRASG12D
(iExosomes), a common mutation in pancreatic cancer. Compared to liposomes,
iExosomes target oncogenic Kras with an enhanced efficacy that is dependent on
CD47, and is facilitated by macropinocytosis. iExosomes treatment suppressed
cancer in multiple mouse models of pancreatic cancer and significantly increased
their overall survival. Our results inform on a novel approach for direct and
specific targeting of oncogenic Kras in tumors using iExosomes.
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Pharmacological strategies to target oncogenic KRAS signaling in pancreatic cancer. Pharmacol Res 2017; 117:370-376. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Durand N, Storz P. Targeting reactive oxygen species in development and progression of pancreatic cancer. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2016; 17:19-31. [PMID: 27841037 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2017.1261017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is characterized by expression of oncogenic KRas which drives all aspects of tumorigenesis. Oncogenic KRas induces the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which have been implicated in initiation and progression of PDA. To facilitate tumor promoting levels and to avoid oncogene-induced senescence or cytotoxicity, ROS homeostasis in PDA cells is balanced by additional up-regulation of antioxidant systems. Areas covered: We examine the sources of ROS in PDA, the mechanisms by which ROS homeostasis is maintained, and the biological consequences of ROS in PDA. Additionally, we discuss the potential mechanisms for targeting ROS homoeostasis as a point of therapeutic intervention. An extensive review of the relevant literature as it relates to the topic was conducted using PubMed. Expert commentary: Even though oncogenic mutations in the KRAS gene have been detected in over 95% of human pancreatic adenocarcinoma, targeting its gene product, KRas, has been difficult. The dependency of PDA cells on balancing ROS homeostasis could be an angle for new prevention or treatment strategies. These include use of antioxidants to prevent formation or progression of precancerous lesions, or methods to increase ROS in tumor cells to toxic levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Durand
- a Department of Cancer Biology , Mayo Clinic , Jacksonville , FL , USA
| | - Peter Storz
- a Department of Cancer Biology , Mayo Clinic , Jacksonville , FL , USA
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Donahue TR, Dawson DW. Leveraging Mechanisms Governing Pancreatic Tumorigenesis To Reduce Pancreatic Cancer Mortality. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2016; 27:770-781. [PMID: 27461042 PMCID: PMC5075262 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2016.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is a devastating malignancy with limited and modest clinical treatments. High-throughput technologies and accurate disease models now provide a comprehensive picture of the diverse molecular signaling pathways and cellular processes governing PDA tumorigenesis. Central among these is oncogenic KRAS, a mediator of cellular plasticity, metabolic reprogramming, and inflammatory and paracrine signaling required for tumor development and maintenance. Biological aggressiveness is further conferred by a highly fibrotic and immunosuppressive PDA microenvironment that also acts as a barrier to effective drug delivery. The regulation of these mechanisms and their implications for early cancer detection, chemoprevention and therapy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Donahue
- Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - David W Dawson
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Ha KD, Bidlingmaier SM, Liu B. Macropinocytosis Exploitation by Cancers and Cancer Therapeutics. Front Physiol 2016; 7:381. [PMID: 27672367 PMCID: PMC5018483 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Macropinocytosis has long been known as a primary method for cellular intake of fluid-phase and membrane-bound bulk cargo. This review seeks to re-examine the latest studies to emphasize how cancers exploit macropinocytosis to further their tumorigenesis, including details in how macropinocytosis can be adapted to serve diverse functions. Furthermore, this review will also cover the latest endeavors in targeting macropinocytosis as an avenue for novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D Ha
- Department of Anesthesia, UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Scott M Bidlingmaier
- Department of Anesthesia, UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Anesthesia, UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco San Francisco, CA, USA
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Abstract
Lipid-modified GTPases in the Ras superfamily that mediate a variety of cell signaling processes were thought to be passively anchored to membranes. However, an increasing number of recent studies are finding that membrane binding of these proteins is hardly a passive process, and it involves the soluble catalytic domain as well as the lipid anchor. The catalytic domain adopts multiple orientations on the membrane surface due to internal fluctuations that are modulated by activation status and mutations. Distinct orientation preferences among small GTPases likely lead to differential signaling outcomes, as downstream effectors can sense different orientations. We review recent studies behind this important conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Prakash
- a Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology , University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston , Houston , TX , USA
| | - Alemayehu A Gorfe
- a Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology , University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston , Houston , TX , USA
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Abstract
Ras proteins are considered as the founding members of a large superfamily of small GTPases that control fundamental cellular functions. Mutationally activated RAS genes were discovered in human cancer cells more than 3 decades ago, but intensive efforts on Ras structure, biochemistry, function and signaling continue even now. Because mutant Ras proteins are inherently difficult to inhibit and have yet been therapeutically conquered, it was designated as “the Everest of oncogenes” in the cancer genome landscape, further promoting a “renaissance” in RAS research. Different paths to directly or indirectly targeting mutant Ras signaling are currently under investigation in the hope of finding an efficacious regimen. Inhibitors directly binding to KRASG12C to block its downstream signaling have been revealed, supporting the notion of Ras' druggability. An alternative indirect approach by targeting synthetic lethal interactors of mutant RAS is underway. We recently employed a synthetic lethal drug screen plus a combinatorial strategy using a panel of clinical agents and discovered that KRAS-mutant cancers were fragile to the combined inhibition of polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) and RhoA/Rho kinase (ROCK). The combined regimen of BI-2536 (a Plk1 inhibitor) and fasudil (a ROCK inhibitor) promoted a significant inhibition of patient-derived lung cancer xenografts and prolonged the survival of LSL-KRASG12D mice. In this commentary, we will summarize the state-of-the art for the direction of synthetic lethality, and also speculate on the future development of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufeng Pang
- a Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University , Shanghai , China
| | - Mingyao Liu
- a Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University , Shanghai , China.,b Institute of Biosciences and Technology , Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center , Houston , TX , USA
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