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Castelli G, Pelosi E, Testa U. Targeting histone methyltransferase and demethylase in acute myeloid leukemia therapy. Onco Targets Ther 2017; 11:131-155. [PMID: 29343972 PMCID: PMC5749389 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s145971] [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] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a clonal disorder of myeloid progenitors characterized by the acquisition of chromosomal abnormalities, somatic mutations, and epigenetic changes that determine a consistent degree of biological and clinical heterogeneity. Advances in genomic technologies have increasingly shown the complexity and heterogeneity of genetic and epigenetic alterations in AML. Among the genetic alterations occurring in AML, frequent are the genetic alterations at the level of various genes involved in the epigenetic control of the DNA methylome and histone methylome. In fact, genes involved in DNA demethylation (such as DNMT3A, TET2, IDH1, and IDH2) or histone methylation and demethylation (EZH2, MLL, DOT1L) are frequently mutated in primary and secondary AML. Furthermore, some histone demethylases, such as LSD1, are frequently overexpressed in AML. These observations have strongly supported a major role of dysregulated epigenetic regulatory processes in leukemia onset and development. This conclusion was further supported by the observation that mutations in genes encoding epigenetic modifiers, such as DMT3A, ASXL1, TET2, IDH1, and IDH2, are usually acquired early and are present in the founding leukemic clone. These observations have contributed to development of the idea that targeting epigenetic abnormalities could represent a potentially promising strategy for the development of innovative treatments of AML. In this review, we analyze those proteins and their inhibitors that have already reached the first stages of clinical trials in AML, namely the histone methyltransferase DOT1L, the demethylase LSD1, and the MLL-interacting protein menin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germana Castelli
- Department of Oncology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Elvira Pelosi
- Department of Oncology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ugo Testa
- Department of Oncology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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202
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Carretta M, Brouwers-Vos AZ, Bosman M, Horton SJ, Martens JHA, Vellenga E, Schuringa JJ. BRD3/4 inhibition and FLT3-ligand deprivation target pathways that are essential for the survival of human MLL-AF9+ leukemic cells. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0189102. [PMID: 29240787 PMCID: PMC5730124 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0189102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present work we aimed to identify targetable signaling networks in human MLL-AF9 leukemias. We show that MLL-AF9 cells critically depend on FLT3-ligand induced pathways as well as on BRD3/4 for their survival. We evaluated the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of the BRD3/4 inhibitor I-BET151 in various human MLL-AF9 (primary) models and patient samples and analyzed the transcriptome changes following treatment. To further understand the mode of action of BRD3/4 inhibition, we performed ChIP-seq experiments on the MLL-AF9 complex in THP1 cells and compared it to RNA-seq data of I-BET151 treated cells. While we could confirm a consistent and specific downregulation of key-oncogenic drivers such as MYC and BCL2, we found that the majority of I-BET151-responsive genes were not direct MLL-AF9 targets. In fact, MLL-AF9 specific targets such as the HOXA cluster, MEIS1 and other cell cycle regulators such as CDK6 were not affected by I-BET151 treatment. Furthermore, we also highlight how MLL-AF9 transformed cells are dependent on the function of non-mutated hematopoietic transcription factors and tyrosine kinases such as the FLT3-TAK1/NF-kB pathway, again impacting on BCL2 but not on the HOXA cluster. We conclude that BRD3/4 and the FLT3-TAK1/NF-kB pathways collectively control a set of targets that are critically important for the survival of human MLL-AF9 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Carretta
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Cancer Research Center Groningen (CRCG), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annet Z. Brouwers-Vos
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Cancer Research Center Groningen (CRCG), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Matthieu Bosman
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Cancer Research Center Groningen (CRCG), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah J. Horton
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Cancer Research Center Groningen (CRCG), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Joost H. A. Martens
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Edo Vellenga
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Cancer Research Center Groningen (CRCG), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Jacob Schuringa
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Cancer Research Center Groningen (CRCG), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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203
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SETD2-mediated crosstalk between H3K36me3 and H3K79me2 in MLL-rearranged leukemia. Leukemia 2017; 32:890-899. [PMID: 29249820 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2017.339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Previously, we identified SETD2 loss-of-function mutations in 22% of MLL-rearranged (MLLr) acute leukemia patients, implicating a mechanism for cooperativity between SETD2 mutations and MLL fusions. However, the detailed mechanism of how SETD2-H3K36me3 downregulation accelerates MLLr leukemia remains unclear. Here, we show that in MLLr leukemia, both H3K79me2 and H3K36me3 are aberrantly elevated and co-enriched in a group of genes. SETD2 inactivation leads to a global reduction of H3K36me3 and a further elevation of H3K79me2, but does not change the expression of known MLL fusion target genes. Instead, this pattern of histone changes is associated with transcriptional deregulation of a novel set of genes; downregulating tumor suppressors (for example, ASXL1) and upregulating oncogenes (for example, ERG). Taken together, our findings reveal a global crosstalk between the oncogenic DOT1L-H3K79me2 axis and the tumor suppressive SETD2-H3K36me3 axis in gene regulation, provide molecular insights into how SETD2 mutations accelerate MLLr leukemogenesis through differential regulation of additional tumor suppressors and oncogenes.
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204
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Rahmani M, Talebi M, Hagh MF, Feizi AAH, Solali S. Aberrant DNA methylation of key genes and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 97:1493-1500. [PMID: 29793312 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is a dynamic process influencing gene expression by altering either coding or non-coding loci. Despite advances in treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL); relapse occurs in approximately 20% of patients. Nowadays, epigenetic factors are considered as one of the most effective mechanisms in pathogenesis of malignancies. These factors are reversible elements which can be potentially regarded as therapy targets and disease prognosis. DNA methylation, which primarily serves as transcriptional suppressor, mostly occurs in CpG islands of the gene promoter regions. This was shown as a key epigenetic factor in inactivating various tumor suppressor genes during cancer initiation and progression. We aimed to review methylation status of key genes involved in hematopoietic malignancies such as IKZF1, CDKN2B, TET2, CYP1B1, SALL4, DLC1, DLX family, TP73, PTPN6, and CDKN1C; and their significance in pathogenesis of ALL. The DNA methylation alterations in promoter regions of the genes have been shown to play crucial roles in tumorigenesis. Methylation -based inactivation of these genes has also been reported as associated with prognosis in acute leukemia. In this review, we also addressed the association of gene expression and methylation pattern in ALL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Rahmani
- Department of Immunology, Division of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Stem cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Talebi
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Farshdousti Hagh
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Saeed Solali
- Department of Immunology, Division of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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205
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Ljungman M, Parks L, Hulbatte R, Bedi K. The role of H3K79 methylation in transcription and the DNA damage response. MUTATION RESEARCH-REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2017; 780:48-54. [PMID: 31395348 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Chromatin plays a critical role in organizing and protecting DNA. However, chromatin acts as an impediment for transcription and DNA repair. Histone modifications, such as H3K79 methylation, promote transcription and genomic stability by enhancing transcription elongation and by serving as landing sites for proteins involved in the DNA damage response. This review summarizes the current understanding of the role of H3K79 methylation in transcription, how it affects genome stability and opportunities to develop impactful therapeutic interventions for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Ljungman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
| | - Luke Parks
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box 256, 75105 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Radhika Hulbatte
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Karan Bedi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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206
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Gates LA, Foulds CE, O'Malley BW. Histone Marks in the 'Driver's Seat': Functional Roles in Steering the Transcription Cycle. Trends Biochem Sci 2017; 42:977-989. [PMID: 29122461 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Particular chromatin modifications are associated with different states of gene transcription, yet our understanding of which modifications are causal 'drivers' in promoting transcription is incomplete. Here, we discuss new developments describing the ordered, mechanistic role of select histone marks occurring during distinct steps in the RNA polymerase II (Pol II) transcription cycle. In particular, we highlight the interplay between histone marks in specifying the 'next step' of transcription. While many studies have described correlative relationships between histone marks and their occupancy at distinct gene regions, we focus on studies that elucidate clear functional consequences of specific histone marks during different stages of transcription. These recent discoveries have refined our current mechanistic understanding of how histone marks promote Pol II transcriptional progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah A Gates
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Current address: Laboratory of Chromatin Biology and Epigenetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charles E Foulds
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bert W O'Malley
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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207
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Krivtsov AV, Hoshii T, Armstrong SA. Mixed-Lineage Leukemia Fusions and Chromatin in Leukemia. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2017; 7:cshperspect.a026658. [PMID: 28242784 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a026658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown the importance of chromatin-modifying complexes in the maintenance of developmental gene expression and human disease. The mixed lineage leukemia gene (MLL1) encodes a chromatin-modifying protein and was discovered as a result of the cloning of translocations involved in human leukemias. MLL1 is a histone lysine 4 (H3K4) methyltransferase that supports transcription of genes that are important for normal development including homeotic (Hox) genes. MLL1 rearrangements result in expression of fusion proteins without H3K4 methylation activity but may gain the ability to recruit other chromatin-associated complexes such as the H3K79 methyltransferase DOT1L and the super elongation complex. Therefore, chromosomal translocations involving MLL1 appear to directly perturb the regulation of multiple chromatin-associated complexes to allow inappropriate expression of developmentally regulated genes and thus drive leukemia development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei V Krivtsov
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
| | - Takayuki Hoshii
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
| | - Scott A Armstrong
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
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208
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Ribich S, Harvey D, Copeland RA. Drug Discovery and Chemical Biology of Cancer Epigenetics. Cell Chem Biol 2017; 24:1120-1147. [PMID: 28938089 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2017.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Comprehensive whole-exome sequencing, DNA copy-number determination, and transcriptomic analyses of diverse cancers have greatly expanded our understanding of the biology of many tumor types. In addition to mutations in the common cell-of-origin specific driver mutations, these studies have also revealed a large number of loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations in chromatin-modifying proteins (CMPs). This has revealed that epigenetic dysregulation is a common feature of most pediatric and adult cancers. Many specific and potent inhibitors have been developed for multiple CMP classes, which have assisted in elucidating the role of epigenetics as well as epigenetic vulnerabilities in these cancer types. Clinical trials with numerous CMP inhibitors are also currently in progress to evaluate the therapeutic potential of epigenetic inhibitors. In this review, we aim to provide a summary of genetic mutations in epigenetic genes and a review of CMP inhibitors suitable for preclinical studies or currently in clinical trials. Additionally, we highlight the CMPs for which potent inhibitors have not been developed and additional research focus should be dedicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Ribich
- Epizyme, Inc., 400 Technology Square, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Darren Harvey
- Epizyme, Inc., 400 Technology Square, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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209
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Lu R, Wang GG. Pharmacologic Targeting of Chromatin Modulators As Therapeutics of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2017; 7:241. [PMID: 29075615 PMCID: PMC5643408 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2017.00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a common hematological cancer of myeloid lineage cells, generally exhibits poor prognosis in the clinic and demands new treatment options. Recently, direct sequencing of samples from human AMLs and pre-leukemic diseases has unveiled their mutational landscapes and significantly advanced the molecular understanding of AML pathogenesis. The newly identified recurrent mutations frequently “hit” genes encoding epigenetic modulators, a wide range of chromatin-modifying enzymes and regulatory factors involved in gene expression regulation, supporting aberration of chromatin structure and epigenetic modification as a main oncogenic mechanism and cancer-initiating event. Increasing body of evidence demonstrates that chromatin modification aberrations underlying the formation of blood cancer can be reversed by pharmacological targeting of the responsible epigenetic modulators, thus providing new mechanism-based treatment strategies. Here, we summarize recent advances in development of small-molecule inhibitors specific to chromatin factors and their potential applications in the treatment of genetically defined AMLs. These compounds selectively inhibit various subclasses of “epigenetic writers” (such as histone methyltransferases MLL/KMT2A, G9A/KMT1C, EZH2/KMT6A, DOT1L/KMT4, and PRMT1), “epigenetic readers” (such as BRD4 and plant homeodomain finger proteins), and “epigenetic erasers” (such as histone demethylases LSD1/KDM1A and JMJD2C/KDM4C). We also discuss about the molecular mechanisms underpinning therapeutic effect of these epigenetic compounds in AML and favor their potential usage for combinational therapy and treatment of pre-leukemia diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Lu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Gang Greg Wang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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210
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Mukherjee N, Cardenas E, Bedolla R, Ghosh R. SETD6 regulates NF-κB signaling in urothelial cell survival: Implications for bladder cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 8:15114-15125. [PMID: 28122346 PMCID: PMC5362471 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.14750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer has a high recurrence rate of 45-70%, progressing to muscle invasive disease in about 15% of those patients over a 5-year period. Administration of the mycobacterium, Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) that induces local inflammation resulting in tumor remission in responsive patients is frequently used for treatment. BCG-treated patients with NF-κB del/del genotype have an increased risk of recurrence suggesting an important role of NF-κB in bladder cancer. Since protein methyltransferases play critical roles in modulating chromatin structure and gene expression, we screened a focused array of epigenetic modification genes to identify differential expression between normal urothelial and bladder cancer cells. We found and validated high expression of the SET-domain-containing protein methyltransferase, SETD6. SETD6 monomethylates NF-κB-p65 at lysine 310. Our results show that primary urothelial cells and normal bladder tissue have nearly undetectable message and protein level of SETD6 that increases in transformed urothelial cells and is further increased in bladder cancer cells and tissues. Overexpression of SETD6 in transformed urothelial cells increased cell survival and colony formation while knockdown in cancer cells decreased both parameters. Luciferase reporter assays showed that SETD6 induced the canonical NF-κB signaling pathway. Further, the use of catalytic SETD6 and IκBα mutant shows that SETD6 positively regulates survival by affecting p65 message, protein level and its function as determined by increased expression of NF-κB target genes. Our findings suggest that SETD6 plays an important role in NF-κB regulation and may have an important role in NF-κB-mediated local inflammatory response following BCG treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelam Mukherjee
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Eduardo Cardenas
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Roble Bedolla
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Rita Ghosh
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine and School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.,Department of Cancer Therapy and Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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211
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212
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Kavanagh S, Murphy T, Law A, Yehudai D, Ho JM, Chan S, Schimmer AD. Emerging therapies for acute myeloid leukemia: translating biology into the clinic. JCI Insight 2017; 2:95679. [PMID: 28931762 PMCID: PMC5621868 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.95679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematological malignancy with a poor outcome; overall survival is approximately 35% at two years and some subgroups have a less than 5% two-year survival. Recently, significant improvements have been made in our understanding of AML biology and genetics. These fundamental discoveries are now being translated into new therapies for this disease. This review will discuss recent advances in AML biology and the emerging treatments that are arising from biological studies. Specifically, we will consider new therapies that target molecular mutations in AML and dysregulated pathways such as apoptosis and mitochondrial metabolism. We will also discuss recent advances in immune and cellular therapy for AML.
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213
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Mllt10 knockout mouse model reveals critical role of Af10-dependent H3K79 methylation in midfacial development. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11922. [PMID: 28931923 PMCID: PMC5607342 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11745-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation is required to ensure the precise spatial and temporal pattern of gene expression that is necessary for embryonic development. Although the roles of some epigenetic modifications in embryonic development have been investigated in depth, the role of methylation at lysine 79 (H3K79me) is poorly understood. Dot1L, a unique methyltransferase for H3K79, forms complexes with distinct sets of co-factors. To further understand the role of H3K79me in embryogenesis, we generated a mouse knockout of Mllt10, the gene encoding Af10, one Dot1L complex co-factor. We find homozygous Mllt10 knockout mutants (Mllt10-KO) exhibit midline facial cleft. The midfacial defects of Mllt10-KO embryos correspond to hyperterolism and are associated with reduced proliferation of mesenchyme in developing nasal processes and adjacent tissue. We demonstrate that H3K79me level is significantly decreased in nasal processes of Mllt10-KO embryos. Importantly, we find that expression of AP2α, a gene critical for midfacial development, is directly regulated by Af10-dependent H3K79me, and expression AP2α is reduced specifically in nasal processes of Mllt10-KO embryos. Suppression of H3K79me completely mimicked the Mllt10-KO phenotype. Together these data are the first to demonstrate that Af10-dependent H3K79me is essential for development of nasal processes and adjacent tissues, and consequent midfacial formation.
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214
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Angus SP, Zawistowski JS, Johnson GL. Epigenetic Mechanisms Regulating Adaptive Responses to Targeted Kinase Inhibitors in Cancer. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2017; 58:209-229. [PMID: 28934561 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010617-052954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Although targeted inhibition of oncogenic kinase drivers has achieved remarkable patient responses in many cancers, the development of resistance has remained a significant challenge. Numerous mechanisms have been identified, including the acquisition of gatekeeper mutations, activating pathway mutations, and copy number loss or gain of the driver or alternate nodes. These changes have prompted the development of kinase inhibitors with increased selectivity, use of second-line therapeutics to overcome primary resistance, and combination treatment to forestall resistance. In addition to genomic resistance mechanisms, adaptive transcriptional and signaling responses seen in tumors are gaining appreciation as alterations that lead to a phenotypic state change-often observed as an epithelial-to-mesenchymal shift or reversion to a cancer stem cell-like phenotype underpinned by remodeling of the epigenetic landscape. This epigenomic modulation driving cell state change is multifaceted and includes modulation of repressive and activating histone modifications, DNA methylation, enhancer remodeling, and noncoding RNA species. Consequently, the combination of kinase inhibitors with drugs targeting components of the transcriptional machinery and histone-modifying enzymes has shown promise in preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we review mechanisms of resistance to kinase inhibition in cancer, with special emphasis on the rewired kinome and transcriptional signaling networks and the potential vulnerabilities that may be exploited to overcome these adaptive signaling changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven P Angus
- Department of Pharmacology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA; , ,
| | - Jon S Zawistowski
- Department of Pharmacology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA; , ,
| | - Gary L Johnson
- Department of Pharmacology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA; , ,
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215
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216
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Lim SH, Dubielecka PM, Raghunathan VM. Molecular targeting in acute myeloid leukemia. J Transl Med 2017; 15:183. [PMID: 28851395 PMCID: PMC5576374 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-017-1281-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogenous disease associated with distinct genetic and molecular abnormalities. Somatic mutations result in dysregulation of intracellular signaling pathways, epigenetics, and apoptosis of the leukemia cells. Understanding the basis for the dysregulated processes provides the platform for the design of novel targeted therapy for AML patients. The effort to devise new targeted therapy has been helped by recent advances in methods for high-throughput genomic screening and the availability of computer-assisted techniques for the design of novel agents that are predicted to specifically inhibit the mutant molecules involved in these intracellular events. In this review, we will provide the scientific basis for targeting the dysregulated molecular mechanisms and discuss the agents currently being investigated, alone or in combination with chemotherapy, for treating patients with AML. Successes in molecular targeting will ultimately change the treatment paradigm for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seah H. Lim
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Patrycja M. Dubielecka
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Vikram M. Raghunathan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903 USA
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217
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Chen L, Higgins PJ, Zhang W. Development and Diseases of the Collecting Duct System. Results Probl Cell Differ 2017; 60:165-203. [PMID: 28409346 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-51436-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The collecting duct of the mammalian kidney is important for the regulation of extracellular volume, osmolarity, and pH. There are two major structurally and functionally distinct cell types: principal cells and intercalated cells. The former regulates Na+ and water homeostasis, while the latter participates in acid-base homeostasis. In vivo lineage tracing using Cre recombinase or its derivatives such as CreGFP and CreERT2 is a powerful new technique to identify stem/progenitor cells in their native environment and to decipher the origins of the tissue that they give rise to. Recent studies using this technique in mice have revealed multiple renal progenitor cell populations that differentiate into various nephron segments and collecting duct. In particular, emerging evidence suggests that like principal cells, most of intercalated cells originate from the progenitor cells expressing water channel Aquaporin 2. Mutations or malfunctions of the channels, pumps, and transporters expressed in the collecting duct system cause various human diseases. For example, gain-of-function mutations in ENaC cause Liddle's syndrome, while loss-of-function mutations in ENaC lead to Pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1. Mutations in either AE1 or V-ATPase B1 result in distal renal tubular acidosis. Patients with disrupted AQP2 or AVPR2 develop nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. A better understanding of the function and development of the collecting duct system may facilitate the discovery of new therapeutic strategies for treating kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihe Chen
- Epithelial Systems Biology Laboratory, Systems Biology Center, NHLBI, Bethesda, MD, 20892-1603, USA
| | - Paul J Higgins
- Department of Regenerative and Cancer Cell Biology, Albany Medical College, MC-165, 47 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Wenzheng Zhang
- Department of Regenerative and Cancer Cell Biology, Albany Medical College, MC-165, 47 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
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218
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Meyer C, Burmeister T, Gröger D, Tsaur G, Fechina L, Renneville A, Sutton R, Venn NC, Emerenciano M, Pombo-de-Oliveira MS, Barbieri Blunck C, Almeida Lopes B, Zuna J, Trka J, Ballerini P, Lapillonne H, De Braekeleer M, Cazzaniga G, Corral Abascal L, van der Velden VHJ, Delabesse E, Park TS, Oh SH, Silva MLM, Lund-Aho T, Juvonen V, Moore AS, Heidenreich O, Vormoor J, Zerkalenkova E, Olshanskaya Y, Bueno C, Menendez P, Teigler-Schlegel A, Zur Stadt U, Lentes J, Göhring G, Kustanovich A, Aleinikova O, Schäfer BW, Kubetzko S, Madsen HO, Gruhn B, Duarte X, Gameiro P, Lippert E, Bidet A, Cayuela JM, Clappier E, Alonso CN, Zwaan CM, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Izraeli S, Trakhtenbrot L, Archer P, Hancock J, Möricke A, Alten J, Schrappe M, Stanulla M, Strehl S, Attarbaschi A, Dworzak M, Haas OA, Panzer-Grümayer R, Sedék L, Szczepański T, Caye A, Suarez L, Cavé H, Marschalek R. The MLL recombinome of acute leukemias in 2017. Leukemia 2017; 32:273-284. [PMID: 28701730 PMCID: PMC5808070 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2017.213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 477] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal rearrangements of the human MLL/KMT2A gene are associated with infant, pediatric, adult and therapy-induced acute leukemias. Here we present the data obtained from 2345 acute leukemia patients. Genomic breakpoints within the MLL gene and the involved translocation partner genes (TPGs) were determined and 11 novel TPGs were identified. Thus, a total of 135 different MLL rearrangements have been identified so far, of which 94 TPGs are now characterized at the molecular level. In all, 35 out of these 94 TPGs occur recurrently, but only 9 specific gene fusions account for more than 90% of all illegitimate recombinations of the MLL gene. We observed an age-dependent breakpoint shift with breakpoints localizing within MLL intron 11 associated with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and younger patients, while breakpoints in MLL intron 9 predominate in AML or older patients. The molecular characterization of MLL breakpoints suggests different etiologies in the different age groups and allows the correlation of functional domains of the MLL gene with clinical outcome. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the MLL recombinome in acute leukemia and demonstrates that the establishment of patient-specific chromosomal fusion sites allows the design of specific PCR primers for minimal residual disease analyses for all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Meyer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology/Diagnostic Center of Acute Leukemia (DCAL), Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - T Burmeister
- Charité-Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumorimmunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - D Gröger
- Charité-Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumorimmunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - G Tsaur
- Regional Children Hospital 1, Research Institute of Medical Cell Technologies, Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Center, Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, Russia
| | - L Fechina
- Regional Children Hospital 1, Research Institute of Medical Cell Technologies, Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Center, Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, Russia
| | - A Renneville
- Laboratory of Hematology, Biology and Pathology Center, CHRU of Lille; INSERM, UMR-S 1172, Cancer Research Institute of Lille, Lille, France
| | - R Sutton
- Children's Cancer Institute Australia, Uinversity of NSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - N C Venn
- Children's Cancer Institute Australia, Uinversity of NSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M Emerenciano
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Program-Research Center, Instituto Nacional de Cancer Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - M S Pombo-de-Oliveira
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Program-Research Center, Instituto Nacional de Cancer Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - C Barbieri Blunck
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Program-Research Center, Instituto Nacional de Cancer Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - B Almeida Lopes
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Program-Research Center, Instituto Nacional de Cancer Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - J Zuna
- CLIP, Department of Paediatric Haematology/Oncology, Charles University Prague, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - J Trka
- CLIP, Department of Paediatric Haematology/Oncology, Charles University Prague, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - P Ballerini
- Biological Hematology, AP-HP A. Trousseau, Pierre et Marie Curie University, Paris, France
| | - H Lapillonne
- Biological Hematology, AP-HP A. Trousseau, Pierre et Marie Curie University, Paris, France
| | - M De Braekeleer
- Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Laboratoire d'Histologie, Embryologie et Cytogénétique & INSERM-U1078, Brest, France
| | - G Cazzaniga
- Centro Ricerca Tettamanti, Clinica Pediatrica Univ. Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - L Corral Abascal
- Centro Ricerca Tettamanti, Clinica Pediatrica Univ. Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | - E Delabesse
- CHU Purpan, Laboratoire d'Hématologie, Toulouse, France
| | - T S Park
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - S H Oh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - M L M Silva
- Cytogenetics Department, Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - T Lund-Aho
- Laboratory of Clinical Genetics, Fimlab Laboratories, Tampere, Finland
| | - V Juvonen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and TYKSLAB, University of Turku and Turku University Central Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - A S Moore
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - O Heidenreich
- Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - J Vormoor
- The Great North Children's Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - E Zerkalenkova
- Dmitry Rogachev National Scientific and Practical Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow
| | - Y Olshanskaya
- Dmitry Rogachev National Scientific and Practical Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow
| | - C Bueno
- Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER de Cancer (CIBERONC), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - P Menendez
- Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER de Cancer (CIBERONC), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Teigler-Schlegel
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Cytology, Institute of Pathology, Giessen, Germany
| | - U Zur Stadt
- Center for Diagnostic, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - J Lentes
- Department of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - G Göhring
- Department of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - A Kustanovich
- Belarusian Research Center for Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, Minsk, Republic of Belarus
| | - O Aleinikova
- Belarusian Research Center for Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, Minsk, Republic of Belarus
| | - B W Schäfer
- Department of Oncology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - S Kubetzko
- Department of Oncology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - H O Madsen
- Department of Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - B Gruhn
- Department of Pediatrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - X Duarte
- Department of Pediatrics, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - P Gameiro
- Hemato-Oncology Laboratory, UIPM, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - E Lippert
- Hématologie Biologique, CHU de Brest and INSERM U1078, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Brest, France
| | - A Bidet
- Hématologie Biologique, CHU de Brest and INSERM U1078, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Brest, France
| | - J M Cayuela
- Laboratoire d'hématologie, AP-HP Saint-Louis, Paris Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - E Clappier
- Laboratoire d'hématologie, AP-HP Saint-Louis, Paris Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - C N Alonso
- Hospital Nacional de Pediatría Prof Dr J. P. Garrahan, Servcio de Hemato-Oncología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C M Zwaan
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Erasmus MC, Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Erasmus MC, Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Izraeli
- The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and the Cancer Research Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Medical School Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - L Trakhtenbrot
- The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and the Cancer Research Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Medical School Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - P Archer
- Bristol Genetics Laboratory, Pathology Sciences, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - J Hancock
- Bristol Genetics Laboratory, Pathology Sciences, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - A Möricke
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Centre Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - J Alten
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Centre Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - M Schrappe
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Centre Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - M Stanulla
- Department of Pediatrics, MHH, Hanover, Germany
| | - S Strehl
- Children's Cancer Research Institute and St Anna Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - A Attarbaschi
- Children's Cancer Research Institute and St Anna Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - M Dworzak
- Children's Cancer Research Institute and St Anna Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - O A Haas
- Children's Cancer Research Institute and St Anna Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - R Panzer-Grümayer
- Children's Cancer Research Institute and St Anna Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - L Sedék
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of Silesia, Zabrze, Poland
| | - T Szczepański
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical University of Silesia, Zabrze, Poland
| | - A Caye
- Department of Genetics, AP-HP Robert Debré, Paris Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - L Suarez
- Department of Genetics, AP-HP Robert Debré, Paris Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - H Cavé
- Department of Genetics, AP-HP Robert Debré, Paris Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - R Marschalek
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology/Diagnostic Center of Acute Leukemia (DCAL), Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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219
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Abstract
Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent and crippling joint disease, and lacks curative treatment, as the underlying molecular basis is unclear. Here, we show that DOT1L, an enzyme involved in histone methylation, is a master protector of cartilage health. Loss of DOT1L disrupts the molecular signature of healthy chondrocytes in vitro and causes osteoarthritis in mice. Mechanistically, the protective function of DOT1L is attributable to inhibition of Wnt signalling, a pathway that when hyper-activated can lead to joint disease. Unexpectedly, DOT1L suppresses Wnt signalling by inhibiting the activity of sirtuin-1 (SIRT1), an important regulator of gene transcription. Inhibition of SIRT1 protects against osteoarthritis triggered by loss of DOT1L activity. Modulating the DOT1L network might therefore be a therapeutic approach to protect the cartilage against osteoarthritis.
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220
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Abstract
In this review, Hu and Shilatifard summarize recent advances in our understanding of the role of chromatin modifiers in normal hematopoiesis and their contributions in hematopoietic transformation. Hematological malignancies comprise a diverse set of lymphoid and myeloid neoplasms in which normal hematopoiesis has gone awry and together account for ∼10% of all new cancer cases diagnosed in the United States in 2016. Recent intensive genomic sequencing of hematopoietic malignancies has identified recurrent mutations in genes that encode regulators of chromatin structure and function, highlighting the central role that aberrant epigenetic regulation plays in the pathogenesis of these neoplasms. Deciphering the molecular mechanisms for how alterations in epigenetic modifiers, specifically histone and DNA methylases and demethylases, drive hematopoietic cancer could provide new avenues for developing novel targeted epigenetic therapies for treating hematological malignancies. Just as past studies of blood cancers led to pioneering discoveries relevant to other cancers, determining the contribution of epigenetic modifiers in hematologic cancers could also have a broader impact on our understanding of the pathogenesis of solid tumors in which these factors are mutated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deqing Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics
| | - Ali Shilatifard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
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221
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Chen Y, Anastassiadis K, Kranz A, Stewart AF, Arndt K, Waskow C, Yokoyama A, Jones K, Neff T, Lee Y, Ernst P. MLL2, Not MLL1, Plays a Major Role in Sustaining MLL-Rearranged Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancer Cell 2017; 31:755-770.e6. [PMID: 28609655 PMCID: PMC5598468 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2016] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The MLL1 histone methyltransferase gene undergoes many distinct chromosomal rearrangements to yield poor-prognosis leukemia. The remaining wild-type allele is most commonly, but not always, retained. To what extent the wild-type allele contributes to leukemogenesis is unclear. Here we show, using rigorous, independent animal models, that endogenous MLL1 is dispensable for MLL-rearranged leukemia. Potential redundancy was addressed by co-deleting the closest paralog, Mll2. Surprisingly, Mll2 deletion alone had a significant impact on survival of MLL-AF9-transformed cells, and additional Mll1 loss further reduced viability and proliferation. We show that MLL1/MLL2 collaboration is not through redundancy, but regulation of distinct pathways. These findings highlight the relevance of MLL2 as a drug target in MLL-rearranged leukemia and suggest its broader significance in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufei Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado, Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Genetics, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Konstantinos Anastassiadis
- Genomics and Stem Cell Engineering, Biotechnology Center, Technische Universität Dresden, BioInnovations Zentrum, Tatzberg 47, Dresden 01307, Germany
| | - Andrea Kranz
- Genomics and Stem Cell Engineering, Biotechnology Center, Technische Universität Dresden, BioInnovations Zentrum, Tatzberg 47, Dresden 01307, Germany
| | - A Francis Stewart
- Genomics and Stem Cell Engineering, Biotechnology Center, Technische Universität Dresden, BioInnovations Zentrum, Tatzberg 47, Dresden 01307, Germany
| | - Kathrin Arndt
- Regeneration in Hematopoiesis and Animal Models in Hematopoiesis, Institute for Immunology, Medical Faculty, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Claudia Waskow
- Regeneration in Hematopoiesis and Animal Models in Hematopoiesis, Institute for Immunology, Medical Faculty, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Akihiko Yokoyama
- Tsuruoka Metabolomics Laboratory, National Cancer Center, Mizukami 246-2, Kakuganji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0052, Japan
| | - Kenneth Jones
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado, Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Tobias Neff
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado, Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Yoo Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado, Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Patricia Ernst
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado, Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado, Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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222
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Murn J, Shi Y. The winding path of protein methylation research: milestones and new frontiers. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2017; 18:517-527. [PMID: 28512349 DOI: 10.1038/nrm.2017.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In 1959, while analysing the bacterial flagellar proteins, Ambler and Rees observed an unknown species of amino acid that they eventually identified as methylated lysine. Over half a century later, protein methylation is known to have a regulatory role in many essential cellular processes that range from gene transcription to signal transduction. However, the road to this now burgeoning research field was obstacle-ridden, not least because of the inconspicuous nature of the methyl mark itself. Here, we chronicle the milestone achievements and discuss the future of protein methylation research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jernej Murn
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, and the Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Yang Shi
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, and the Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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223
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Hyun K, Jeon J, Park K, Kim J. Writing, erasing and reading histone lysine methylations. Exp Mol Med 2017; 49:e324. [PMID: 28450737 PMCID: PMC6130214 DOI: 10.1038/emm.2017.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 706] [Impact Index Per Article: 100.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Histone modifications are key epigenetic regulatory features that have important roles in many cellular events. Lysine methylations mark various sites on the tail and globular domains of histones and their levels are precisely balanced by the action of methyltransferases ('writers') and demethylases ('erasers'). In addition, distinct effector proteins ('readers') recognize specific methyl-lysines in a manner that depends on the neighboring amino-acid sequence and methylation state. Misregulation of histone lysine methylation has been implicated in several cancers and developmental defects. Therefore, histone lysine methylation has been considered a potential therapeutic target, and clinical trials of several inhibitors of this process have shown promising results. A more detailed understanding of histone lysine methylation is necessary for elucidating complex biological processes and, ultimately, for developing and improving disease treatments. This review summarizes enzymes responsible for histone lysine methylation and demethylation and how histone lysine methylation contributes to various biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwangbeom Hyun
- Laboratory of Eukaryotic Transcription, Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jongcheol Jeon
- Laboratory of Eukaryotic Transcription, Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Kihyun Park
- Laboratory of Eukaryotic Transcription, Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jaehoon Kim
- Laboratory of Eukaryotic Transcription, Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
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224
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Campbell CT, Haladyna JN, Drubin DA, Thomson TM, Maria MJ, Yamauchi T, Waters NJ, Olhava EJ, Pollock RM, Smith JJ, Copeland RA, Blakemore SJ, Bernt KM, Daigle SR. Mechanisms of Pinometostat (EPZ-5676) Treatment-Emergent Resistance in MLL-Rearranged Leukemia. Mol Cancer Ther 2017; 16:1669-1679. [PMID: 28428443 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
DOT1L is a protein methyltransferase involved in the development and maintenance of MLL-rearranged (MLL-r) leukemia through its ectopic methylation of histones associated with well-characterized leukemic genes. Pinometostat (EPZ-5676), a selective inhibitor of DOT1L, is in clinical development in relapsed/refractory acute leukemia patients harboring rearrangements of the MLL gene. The observation of responses and subsequent relapses in the adult trial treating MLL-r patients motivated preclinical investigations into potential mechanisms of pinometostat treatment-emergent resistance (TER) in cell lines confirmed to have MLL-r. TER was achieved in five MLL-r cell lines, KOPN-8, MOLM-13, MV4-11, NOMO-1, and SEM. Two of the cell lines, KOPN-8 and NOMO-1, were thoroughly characterized to understand the mechanisms involved in pinometostat resistance. Unlike many other targeted therapies, resistance does not appear to be achieved through drug-induced selection of mutations of the target itself. Instead, we identified both drug efflux transporter dependent and independent mechanisms of resistance to pinometostat. In KOPN-8 TER cells, increased expression of the drug efflux transporter ABCB1 (P-glycoprotein, MDR1) was the primary mechanism of drug resistance. In contrast, resistance in NOMO-1 cells occurs through a mechanism other than upregulation of a specific efflux pump. RNA-seq analysis performed on both parental and resistant KOPN-8 and NOMO-1 cell lines supported two unique candidate pathway mechanisms that may explain the pinometostat resistance observed in these cell lines. These results are the first demonstration of TER models of the DOT1L inhibitor pinometostat and may provide useful tools for investigating clinical resistance. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(8); 1669-79. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kathrin M Bernt
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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225
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Okuda H, Stanojevic B, Kanai A, Kawamura T, Takahashi S, Matsui H, Takaori-Kondo A, Yokoyama A. Cooperative gene activation by AF4 and DOT1L drives MLL-rearranged leukemia. J Clin Invest 2017; 127:1918-1931. [PMID: 28394257 DOI: 10.1172/jci91406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The eleven-nineteen leukemia (ENL) protein family, composed of ENL and AF9, is a common component of 3 transcriptional modulators: AF4-ENL-P-TEFb complex (AEP), DOT1L-AF10-ENL complex (referred to as the DOT1L complex) and polycomb-repressive complex 1 (PRC1). Each complex associates with chromatin via distinct mechanisms, conferring different transcriptional properties including activation, maintenance, and repression. The mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL) gene often fuses with ENL and AF10 family genes in leukemia. However, the functional interrelationship among those 3 complexes in leukemic transformation remains largely elusive. Here, we have shown that MLL-ENL and MLL-AF10 constitutively activate transcription by aberrantly inducing both AEP-dependent transcriptional activation and DOT1L-dependent transcriptional maintenance, mostly in the absence of PRC1, to fully transform hematopoietic progenitors. These results reveal a cooperative transcriptional activation mechanism of AEP and DOT1L and suggest a molecular rationale for the simultaneous inhibition of the MLL fusion-AF4 complex and DOT1L for more effective treatment of MLL-rearranged leukemia.
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226
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Tsai CT, So CWE. Epigenetic therapies by targeting aberrant histone methylome in AML: molecular mechanisms, current preclinical and clinical development. Oncogene 2017; 36:1753-1759. [PMID: 27593928 PMCID: PMC5378929 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2016.315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
While the current epigenetic drug development is still largely restricted to target DNA methylome, emerging evidence indicates that histone methylome is indeed another major epigenetic determinant for gene expression and frequently deregulated in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). The recent advances in dissecting the molecular regulation and targeting histone methylome in AML together with the success in developing lead compounds specific to key histone methylation-modifying enzymes have revealed new opportunities for effective leukaemia treatment. In this article, we will review the emerging functions of histone methyltransferases and histone demethylases in AML, especially MLL-rearranged leukaemia. We will also examine recent preclinical and clinical studies that show significant promises of targeting these histone methylation-modifying enzymes for AML treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- C T Tsai
- Leukaemia and Stem Cell Biology Group, Division of Cancer Studies, Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College London, Denmark Hill Campus, Rayne Institute, London, UK
| | - C W E So
- Leukaemia and Stem Cell Biology Group, Division of Cancer Studies, Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College London, Denmark Hill Campus, Rayne Institute, London, UK
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227
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Loeser H, Waldschmidt D, Kuetting F, Heydt C, Zander T, Plum P, Alakus H, Buettner R, Quaas A. Copy-number variation and protein expression of DOT1L in pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a potential drug target. Mol Clin Oncol 2017; 6:639-642. [PMID: 28529740 PMCID: PMC5432215 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2017.1194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenocarcinoma of the pancreas has a poor prognosis. At present, no relevant personalized targets have been identified. Sequencing studies have implicated gene alterations of disruptor of telomeric silencing 1 like histone lysine methyltransferase (DOT1L) in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. DOT1L is part of the histone modification system and catalyzes methylation of H3K79, which is crucial in cell signaling and DNA damage repair. DOT1L is considered to be a target of therapy in mixed lineage leukemia gene-deficient leukemia cases and a potential target in breast carcinoma. The frequencies and importance of DOT1L copy-number variations and their specific correlation with protein expression in adenocarcinoma of the pancreas have yet to be investigated. In the present study, tissue microarrays of 230 resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma cases were constructed. The tumor tissue was analyzed using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunohistochemistry. In total, 10/225 carcinoma cases (4.4%) analyzed by immunohistochemistry demonstrated intense nuclear protein expression of DOT1L and in 9/224 tumors analyzed using FISH (4.0%), copy-number variations (CNV) were detectable. No DOT1L amplification was detected in the carcinoma cohort. To the best of our knowledge, the present study describes for the first time the frequency of CNV of DOT1L using the gold standard fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and their specific correlation to the protein expression in adenocarcinomas of the pancreas. Although the positive cases by immunohistochemistry and copy-number variations by FISH were not congruent with each other, the data suggest a potential role for DOT1L in a small subset of pancreatic cancer cases. The significance of the two analysis methods concerning their druggability in pancreatic adenocarcinoma requires further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heike Loeser
- Institute of Pathology, University of Cologne, Gastrointestinal Cancer Group Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Dirk Waldschmidt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Cologne, Gastrointestinal Cancer Group Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Fabian Kuetting
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Cologne, Gastrointestinal Cancer Group Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Carina Heydt
- Institute of Pathology, University of Cologne, Gastrointestinal Cancer Group Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Zander
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, University of Cologne, Gastrointestinal Cancer Group Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Patrick Plum
- Department of Visceral Surgery, University of Cologne, Gastrointestinal Cancer Group Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Hakan Alakus
- Department of Visceral Surgery, University of Cologne, Gastrointestinal Cancer Group Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Reinhard Buettner
- Institute of Pathology, University of Cologne, Gastrointestinal Cancer Group Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Alexander Quaas
- Institute of Pathology, University of Cologne, Gastrointestinal Cancer Group Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany
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228
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Abstract
In the past few years, it has become clear that mutations in epigenetic regulatory genes are common in human cancers. Therapeutic strategies are now being developed to target cancers with mutations in these genes using specific chemical inhibitors. In addition, a complementary approach based on the concept of synthetic lethality, which allows exploitation of loss-of-function mutations in cancers that are not targetable by conventional methods, has gained traction. Both of these approaches are now being tested in several clinical trials. In this Review, we present recent advances in epigenetic drug discovery and development, and suggest possible future avenues of investigation to drive progress in this area.
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229
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Meeks JJ, Shilatifard A. Multiple Roles for the MLL/COMPASS Family in the Epigenetic Regulation of Gene Expression and in Cancer. ANNUAL REVIEW OF CANCER BIOLOGY-SERIES 2017. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cancerbio-050216-034333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua J. Meeks
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Ali Shilatifard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
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Fisher JB, Peterson J, Reimer M, Stelloh C, Pulakanti K, Gerbec ZJ, Abel AM, Strouse JM, Strouse C, McNulty M, Malarkannan S, Crispino JD, Milanovich S, Rao S. The cohesin subunit Rad21 is a negative regulator of hematopoietic self-renewal through epigenetic repression of Hoxa7 and Hoxa9. Leukemia 2017; 31:712-719. [PMID: 27554164 PMCID: PMC5332284 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2016.240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a high-risk hematopoietic malignancy caused by a variety of mutations, including genes encoding the cohesin complex. Recent studies have demonstrated that reduction in cohesin complex levels leads to enhanced self-renewal in hematopoietic stem and progenitors (HSPCs). We sought to delineate the molecular mechanisms by which cohesin mutations promote enhanced HSPC self-renewal as this represents a critical initial step during leukemic transformation. We verified that RNAi against the cohesin subunit Rad21 causes enhanced self-renewal of HSPCs in vitro through derepression of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) target genes, including Hoxa7 and Hoxa9. Importantly, knockdown of either Hoxa7 or Hoxa9 suppressed self-renewal, implying that both are critical downstream effectors of reduced cohesin levels. We further demonstrate that the cohesin and PRC2 complexes interact and are bound in close proximity to Hoxa7 and Hoxa9. Rad21 depletion resulted in decreased levels of H3K27me3 at the Hoxa7 and Hoxa9 promoters, consistent with Rad21 being critical to proper gene silencing by recruiting the PRC2 complex. Our data demonstrates that the cohesin complex regulates PRC2 targeting to silence Hoxa7 and Hoxa9 and negatively regulate self-renewal. Our studies identify a novel epigenetic mechanism underlying leukemogenesis in AML patients with cohesin mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B. Fisher
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | | | - Michael Reimer
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Cary Stelloh
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Kirthi Pulakanti
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Zachary J. Gerbec
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Alex M. Abel
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | | | | | - Maureen McNulty
- Northwestern University Division of Hematology/Oncology, Chicago, IL
| | - Subramaniam Malarkannan
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - John D. Crispino
- Northwestern University Division of Hematology/Oncology, Chicago, IL
| | - Samuel Milanovich
- Sanford Research Center and University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD
| | - Sridhar Rao
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
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232
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Transcription control by the ENL YEATS domain in acute leukaemia. Nature 2017; 543:270-274. [PMID: 28241139 PMCID: PMC5497220 DOI: 10.1038/nature21688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Recurrent chromosomal translocations involving the mixed lineage leukemia gene (MLL) give rise to a highly aggressive acute leukemia associated with poor clinical outcome1. The preferential involvement of chromatin-associated factors in MLL rearrangement belies a dependency on transcription control2. Despite recent progress made in targeting chromatin regulators in cancer3, available therapies for this well-characterized disease remain inadequate, prompting the present effort to qualify new targets for therapeutic intervention. Using unbiased, emerging CRISPR-Cas9 technology to perform a genome-scale loss-of-function screen in MLL-AF4-positive acute leukemia, we identified ENL (eleven-nineteen leukemia) as an unrecognized dependency particularly indispensable for proliferation in vitro and in vivo. To explain the mechanistic role for ENL in leukemia pathogenesis and dynamic transcription control, we pursued a chemical genetic strategy utilizing targeted protein degradation. Acute ENL loss suppresses transcription initiation and elongation genome-wide, with pronounced effects at genes featuring disproportionate ENL load. Importantly, ENL-dependent leukemic growth was contingent upon an intact YEATS chromatin reader domain. These findings reveal a novel dependency in acute leukemia and a first mechanistic rational for disrupting the YEATS domain in disease.
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233
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Abstract
Cancer cell hallmarks are underpinned by transcriptional programmes operating in the context of a dynamic and complicit epigenomic environment. Somatic alterations of chromatin modifiers are among the most prevalent cancer perturbations. There is a pressing need for targeted chemical probes to dissect these complex, interconnected gene regulatory circuits. Validated chemical probes empower mechanistic research while providing the pharmacological proof of concept that is required to translate drug-like derivatives into therapy for cancer patients. In this Review, we describe chemical probe development for epigenomic effector proteins that are linked to cancer pathogenesis. By annotating these reagents, we aim to share our perspectives on an informative 'epigenomic toolbox' of broad utility to the research community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake Shortt
- Gene Regulation Laboratory, Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville 3052, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia
| | - Christopher J Ott
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
- Center for the Science of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, USA
| | - Ricky W Johnstone
- Gene Regulation Laboratory, Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville 3052, Australia
| | - James E Bradner
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
- Center for the Science of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, USA
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234
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Preclinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Pinometostat (EPZ-5676), a First-in-Class, Small Molecule S-Adenosyl Methionine Competitive Inhibitor of DOT1L. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2017; 42:891-901. [DOI: 10.1007/s13318-017-0404-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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235
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Discovery of Novel Disruptor of Silencing Telomeric 1-Like (DOT1L) Inhibitors using a Target-Specific Scoring Function for the (S)-Adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM)-Dependent Methyltransferase Family. J Med Chem 2017; 60:2026-2036. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6b01785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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236
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MLL is essential for NUP98-HOXA9-induced leukemia. Leukemia 2017; 31:2200-2210. [PMID: 28210005 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2017.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Rearrangements involving the NUP98 gene resulting in fusions to several partner genes occur in acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. This study demonstrates that the second FG repeat domain of the NUP98 moiety of the NUP98-HOXA9 fusion protein is important for its cell immortalization and leukemogenesis activities. We demonstrate that NUP98-HOXA9 interacts with mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) via this FG repeat domain and that, in the absence of MLL, NUP98-HOXA9-induced cell immortalization and leukemogenesis are severely inhibited. Molecular analyses indicate that MLL is important for the recruitment of NUP98-HOXA9 to the HOXA locus and for NUP98-HOXA9-induced HOXA gene expression. Our data indicate that MLL is crucial for NUP98-HOXA9 leukemia initiation.
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237
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Abstract
Compelling evidence have demonstrated that bulk tumors can arise from a unique subset of cells commonly termed "cancer stem cells" that has been proposed to be a strong driving force of tumorigenesis and a key mechanism of therapeutic resistance. Recent advances in epigenomics have illuminated key mechanisms by which epigenetic regulation contribute to cancer progression. In this review, we present a discussion of how deregulation of various epigenetic pathways can contribute to cancer initiation and tumorigenesis, particularly with respect to maintenance and survival of cancer stem cells. This information, together with several promising clinical and preclinical trials of epigenetic modulating drugs, offer new possibilities for targeting cancer stem cells as well as improving cancer therapy overall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tan Boon Toh
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jhin Jieh Lim
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Edward Kai-Hua Chow
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Translational Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive #12-01, Singapore, 117599 Singapore
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238
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Lindsay C, Seikaly H, Biron VL. Epigenetics of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: opportunities for novel chemotherapeutic targets. J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2017; 46:9. [PMID: 28143553 PMCID: PMC5282807 DOI: 10.1186/s40463-017-0185-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications are heritable changes in gene expression that do not directly alter DNA sequence. These modifications include DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, small and non-coding RNAs. Alterations in epigenetic profiles cause deregulation of fundamental gene expression pathways associated with carcinogenesis. The role of epigenetics in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) has recently been recognized, with implications for novel biomarkers, molecular diagnostics and chemotherapeutics. In this review, important epigenetic pathways in human papillomavirus (HPV) positive and negative OPSCC are summarized, as well as the potential clinical utility of this knowledge.This material has never been published and is not currently under evaluation in any other peer-reviewed publication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Lindsay
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Alberta, 1E4.34 WMC, 8440 112 Street, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Hadi Seikaly
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Alberta, 1E4.34 WMC, 8440 112 Street, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Vincent L Biron
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Alberta, 1E4.34 WMC, 8440 112 Street, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2B7, Canada.
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239
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The Relationship Between DOT1L, Histone H3 Methylation, and Genome Stability in Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40610-017-0051-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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240
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Abstract
Despite its identification in 1997, the functions of the MEN1 gene-the main gene underlying multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 syndrome-are not yet fully understood. In addition, unlike the RET-MEN2 causative gene-no hot-spot mutational areas or genotype-phenotype correlations have been identified. More than 1,300 MEN1 gene mutations have been reported and are mostly "private" (family specific). Even when mutations are shared at an intra- or inter-familial level, the spectrum of clinical presentation is highly variable, even in identical twins. Despite these inherent limitations for genetic counseling, identifying MEN1 mutations in individual carriers offers them the opportunity to have lifelong clinical surveillance schemes aimed at revealing MEN1-associated tumors and lesions, dictates the timing and scope of surgical procedures, and facilitates specific mutation analysis of relatives to define presymptomatic carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Falchetti
- EndOsMet Unit, Villa Donatello, Piazzale Donatello 2, Florence 50100, Italy; Hercolani Clinical Center, Via D'Azeglio 46, Bologna 40136, Italy
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241
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Li Z, Weng H, Su R, Weng X, Zuo Z, Li C, Huang H, Nachtergaele S, Dong L, Hu C, Qin X, Tang L, Wang Y, Hong GM, Huang H, Wang X, Chen P, Gurbuxani S, Arnovitz S, Li Y, Li S, Strong J, Neilly MB, Larson RA, Jiang X, Zhang P, Jin J, He C, Chen J. FTO Plays an Oncogenic Role in Acute Myeloid Leukemia as a N 6-Methyladenosine RNA Demethylase. Cancer Cell 2017; 31:127-141. [PMID: 28017614 PMCID: PMC5234852 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2016.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1064] [Impact Index Per Article: 152.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) represents the most prevalent internal modification in mammalian mRNAs. Despite its functional importance in various fundamental bioprocesses, the studies of m6A in cancer have been limited. Here we show that FTO, as an m6A demethylase, plays a critical oncogenic role in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). FTO is highly expressed in AMLs with t(11q23)/MLL rearrangements, t(15;17)/PML-RARA, FLT3-ITD, and/or NPM1 mutations. FTO enhances leukemic oncogene-mediated cell transformation and leukemogenesis, and inhibits all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA)-induced AML cell differentiation, through regulating expression of targets such as ASB2 and RARA by reducing m6A levels in these mRNA transcripts. Collectively, our study demonstrates the functional importance of the m6A methylation and the corresponding proteins in cancer, and provides profound insights into leukemogenesis and drug response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zejuan Li
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Hengyou Weng
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA
| | - Rui Su
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA
| | - Xiaocheng Weng
- Departments of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University, Hubei, Wuhan 430072, PR China
| | - Zhixiang Zuo
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Chenying Li
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA; Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Malignancies, Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Huilin Huang
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA
| | - Sigrid Nachtergaele
- Departments of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Lei Dong
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA
| | - Chao Hu
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA; Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Malignancies, Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Xi Qin
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA
| | - Lichun Tang
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yungui Wang
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA; Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Malignancies, Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Gia-Ming Hong
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Hao Huang
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Xiao Wang
- Departments of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ping Chen
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Sandeep Gurbuxani
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Stephen Arnovitz
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Shenglai Li
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jennifer Strong
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA
| | - Mary Beth Neilly
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Richard A Larson
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Xi Jiang
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA
| | - Pumin Zhang
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jie Jin
- Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Malignancies, Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Chuan He
- Departments of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA.
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242
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Pastore F, Levine RL. Epigenetic regulators and their impact on therapy in acute myeloid leukemia. Haematologica 2017; 101:269-78. [PMID: 26928248 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2015.140822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic studies of hematologic malignancies have identified a spectrum of recurrent somatic alterations that contribute to acute myeloid leukemia initiation and maintenance, and which confer sensitivities to molecularly targeted therapies. The majority of these genetic events are small, site-specific alterations in DNA sequence. In more than two thirds of patients with de novo acute myeloid leukemia mutations epigenetic modifiers are detected. Epigenetic modifiers encompass a large group of proteins that modify DNA at cytosine residues or cause post-translational histone modifications such as methylations or acetylations. Altered functions of these epigenetic modifiers disturb the physiological balance between gene activation and gene repression and contribute to aberrant gene expression regulation found in acute myeloid leukemia. This review provides an overview of the epigenetic modifiers mutated in acute myeloid leukemia, their clinical relevance and how a deeper understanding of their biological function has led to the discovery of new specific targets, some of which are currently tested in mechanism-based clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Pastore
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
| | - Ross L Levine
- Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, NY, USA
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243
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Winters AC, Bernt KM. MLL-Rearranged Leukemias-An Update on Science and Clinical Approaches. Front Pediatr 2017; 5:4. [PMID: 28232907 PMCID: PMC5299633 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2017.00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 265] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mixed-lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1) gene (now renamed Lysine [K]-specific MethylTransferase 2A or KMT2A) on chromosome 11q23 is disrupted in a unique group of acute leukemias. More than 80 different partner genes in these fusions have been described, although the majority of leukemias result from MLL1 fusions with one of about six common partner genes. Approximately 10% of all leukemias harbor MLL1 translocations. Of these, two patient populations comprise the majority of cases: patients younger than 1 year of age at diagnosis (primarily acute lymphoblastic leukemias) and young- to-middle-aged adults (primarily acute myeloid leukemias). A much rarer subgroup of patients with MLL1 rearrangements develop leukemia that is attributable to prior treatment with certain chemotherapeutic agents-so-called therapy-related leukemias. In general, outcomes for all of these patients remain poor when compared to patients with non-MLL1 rearranged leukemias. In this review, we will discuss the normal biological roles of MLL1 and its fusion partners, how these roles are hypothesized to be dysregulated in the context of MLL1 rearrangements, and the clinical manifestations of this group of leukemias. We will go on to discuss the progress in clinical management and promising new avenues of research, which may lead to more effective targeted therapies for affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C Winters
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado , Aurora, CO , USA
| | - Kathrin M Bernt
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado , Aurora, CO , USA
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Dafflon C, Craig VJ, Méreau H, Gräsel J, Schacher Engstler B, Hoffman G, Nigsch F, Gaulis S, Barys L, Ito M, Aguadé-Gorgorió J, Bornhauser B, Bourquin JP, Proske A, Stork-Fux C, Murakami M, Sellers WR, Hofmann F, Schwaller J, Tiedt R. Complementary activities of DOT1L and Menin inhibitors in MLL-rearranged leukemia. Leukemia 2016; 31:1269-1277. [PMID: 27840424 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2016.327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal rearrangements of the mixed lineage leukemia (MLL/KMT2A) gene leading to oncogenic MLL-fusion proteins occur in ~10% of acute leukemias and are associated with poor clinical outcomes, emphasizing the need for new treatment modalities. Inhibition of the DOT1-like histone H3K79 methyltransferase (DOT1L) is a specific therapeutic approach for such leukemias that is currently being tested in clinical trials. However, in most MLL-rearranged leukemia models responses to DOT1L inhibitors are limited. Here, we performed deep-coverage short hairpin RNA sensitizer screens in DOT1L inhibitor-treated MLL-rearranged leukemia cell lines and discovered that targeting additional nodes of MLL complexes concomitantly with DOT1L inhibition bears great potential for superior therapeutic results. Most notably, combination of a DOT1L inhibitor with an inhibitor of the MLL-Menin interaction markedly enhanced induction of differentiation and cell killing in various MLL disease models including primary leukemia cells, while sparing normal hematopoiesis and leukemias without MLL rearrangements. Gene expression analysis on human and murine leukemic cells revealed that target genes of MLL-fusion proteins and MYC were suppressed more profoundly upon combination treatment. Our findings provide a strong rationale for a novel targeted combination therapy that is expected to improve therapeutic outcomes in patients with MLL-rearranged leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Dafflon
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - V J Craig
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - H Méreau
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - J Gräsel
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - B Schacher Engstler
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - G Hoffman
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Developmental and Molecular Pathways, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - F Nigsch
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Developmental and Molecular Pathways, Basel, Switzerland
| | - S Gaulis
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - L Barys
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - M Ito
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - J Aguadé-Gorgorió
- Department of Oncology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - B Bornhauser
- Department of Oncology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - J-P Bourquin
- Department of Oncology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A Proske
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - C Stork-Fux
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - M Murakami
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - W R Sellers
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - F Hofmann
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - J Schwaller
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - R Tiedt
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Disease Area Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
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245
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Dysregulation of histone methyltransferases in breast cancer - Opportunities for new targeted therapies? Mol Oncol 2016; 10:1497-1515. [PMID: 27717710 DOI: 10.1016/j.molonc.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Histone methyltransferases (HMTs) catalyze the methylation of lysine and arginine residues on histone tails and non-histone targets. These important post-translational modifications are exquisitely regulated and affect chromatin compaction and transcriptional programs leading to diverse biological outcomes. There is accumulating evidence that genetic alterations of several HMTs impinge on oncogenic or tumor-suppressor functions and influence both cancer initiation and progression. HMTs therefore represent an opportunity for therapeutic targeting in those patients with tumors in which HMTs are dysregulated, to reverse the histone marks and transcriptional programs associated with aggressive tumor behavior. In this review, we describe the known histone methyltransferases and their emerging roles in breast cancer tumorigenesis.
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246
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Scheufler C, Möbitz H, Gaul C, Ragot C, Be C, Fernández C, Beyer KS, Tiedt R, Stauffer F. Optimization of a Fragment-Based Screening Hit toward Potent DOT1L Inhibitors Interacting in an Induced Binding Pocket. ACS Med Chem Lett 2016; 7:730-4. [PMID: 27563394 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.6b00168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene rearrangement induces leukemic transformation by ectopic recruitment of disruptor of telomeric silencing 1-like protein (DOT1L), a lysine histone methyltransferase, leading to local hypermethylation of H3K79 and misexpression of genes (including HoxA), which drive the leukemic phenotype. A weak fragment-based screening hit identified by SPR was cocrystallized with DOT1L and optimized using structure-based ligand optimization to yield compound 8 (IC50 = 14 nM). This series of inhibitors is structurally not related to cofactor SAM and is not interacting within the SAM binding pocket but induces a pocket adjacent to the SAM binding site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemens Scheufler
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Henrik Möbitz
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Gaul
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Ragot
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Céline Be
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - César Fernández
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kim S. Beyer
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ralph Tiedt
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Frédéric Stauffer
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
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247
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DOT1L as a therapeutic target for the treatment of DNMT3A-mutant acute myeloid leukemia. Blood 2016; 128:971-81. [PMID: 27335278 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2015-11-684225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) are common in acute myeloid leukemia and portend a poor prognosis; thus, new therapeutic strategies are needed. The likely mechanism by which DNMT3A loss contributes to leukemogenesis is altered DNA methylation and the attendant gene expression changes; however, our current understanding is incomplete. We observed that murine hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in which Dnmt3a had been conditionally deleted markedly overexpress the histone 3 lysine 79 (H3K79) methyltransferase, Dot1l. We demonstrate that Dnmt3a(-/-) HSCs have increased H3K79 methylation relative to wild-type (WT) HSCs, with the greatest increases noted at DNA methylation canyons, which are regions highly enriched for genes dysregulated in leukemia and prone to DNA methylation loss with Dnmt3a deletion. These findings led us to explore DOT1L as a therapeutic target for the treatment of DNMT3A-mutant AML. We show that pharmacologic inhibition of DOT1L resulted in decreased expression of oncogenic canyon-associated genes and led to dose- and time-dependent inhibition of proliferation, induction of apoptosis, cell-cycle arrest, and terminal differentiation in DNMT3A-mutant cell lines in vitro. We show in vivo efficacy of the DOT1L inhibitor EPZ5676 in a nude rat xenograft model of DNMT3A-mutant AML. DOT1L inhibition was also effective against primary patient DNMT3A-mutant AML samples, reducing colony-forming capacity (CFC) and inducing terminal differentiation in vitro. These studies suggest that DOT1L may play a critical role in DNMT3A-mutant leukemia. With pharmacologic inhibitors of DOT1L already in clinical trials, DOT1L could be an immediately actionable therapeutic target for the treatment of this poor prognosis disease.
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248
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Luo M, Wang H, Zou Y, Zhang S, Xiao J, Jiang G, Zhang Y, Lai Y. Identification of phenoxyacetamide derivatives as novel DOT1L inhibitors via docking screening and molecular dynamics simulation. J Mol Graph Model 2016; 68:128-139. [PMID: 27434826 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2016.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Dot1-like protein (DOT1L) is a histone methyltransferase that has become a novel and promising target for acute leukemias bearing mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene rearrangements. In this study, a hierarchical docking-based virtual screening combined with molecular dynamic (MD) simulation was performed to identify DOT1L inhibitors with novel scaffolds. Consequently, 8 top-ranked hits were eventually identified and were further subjected to MD simulation. It was indicated that all hits could reach equilibrium with DOT1L in the MD simulation and further binding free energy calculations suggested that phenoxyacetamide-derived hits such as L01, L03, L04 and L05 exhibited remarkably higher binding affinity compared to other hits. Among them, L03 showed both the lowest glide score (-12.281) and the most favorable binding free energy (-303.9+/-16.5kJ/mol), thereby making it a promising lead for further optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghao Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yi Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shengping Zhang
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, 23 Symonds St., Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jianhu Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Guangde Jiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 1345 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Yihua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yisheng Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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249
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Song Y, Wu F, Wu J. Targeting histone methylation for cancer therapy: enzymes, inhibitors, biological activity and perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2016; 9:49. [PMID: 27316347 PMCID: PMC4912745 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-016-0279-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-translational methylation of histone lysine or arginine residues plays important roles in gene regulation and other physiological processes. Aberrant histone methylation caused by a gene mutation, translocation, or overexpression can often lead to initiation of a disease such as cancer. Small molecule inhibitors of such histone modifying enzymes that correct the abnormal methylation could be used as novel therapeutics for these diseases, or as chemical probes for investigation of epigenetics. Discovery and development of histone methylation modulators are in an early stage and undergo a rapid expansion in the past few years. A number of highly potent and selective compounds have been reported, together with extensive preclinical studies of their biological activity. Several compounds have been in clinical trials for safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy, targeting several types of cancer. This review summarizes the biochemistry, structures, and biology of cancer-relevant histone methylation modifying enzymes, small molecule inhibitors and their preclinical and clinical antitumor activities. Perspectives for targeting histone methylation for cancer therapy are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongcheng Song
- Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Fangrui Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jingyu Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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250
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Cermakova K, Weydert C, Christ F, De Rijck J, Debyser Z. Lessons Learned: HIV Points the Way Towards Precision Treatment of Mixed-Lineage Leukemia. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2016; 37:660-671. [PMID: 27290878 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2016.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions are involved in most if not all pathogenic and pathophysiological processes and represent attractive therapeutic targets. Extensive biological and clinical research efforts have led to the identification and validation of several cellular hubs that are crucially involved in disease pathogenesis. An interesting example of such a hub is the lens epithelium-derived growth factor (LEDGF/p75), a protein that tethers multiple unrelated proteins and protein complexes to the chromatin. Its chromatin-tethering ability is linked to at least two unrelated diseases-HIV infection and MLL-rearranged acute leukemia. In this review we discuss recent progress in our understanding of the interaction of LEDGF/p75 with its binding partners and focus on the first steps towards therapies targeting protein-protein interactions of LEDGF/p75.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Cermakova
- KU Leuven, Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Leuven, Belgium; Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (ASCR), v.v.i, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Caroline Weydert
- KU Leuven, Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frauke Christ
- KU Leuven, Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan De Rijck
- KU Leuven, Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Zeger Debyser
- KU Leuven, Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Leuven, Belgium.
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