201
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Bates
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New York
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202
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The efficiency of murine MLL-ENL-driven leukemia initiation changes with age and peaks during neonatal development. Blood Adv 2020; 3:2388-2399. [PMID: 31405949 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2019000554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
MLL rearrangements are translocation mutations that cause both acute lymphoblastic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). These translocations can occur as sole clonal driver mutations in infant leukemias, suggesting that fetal or neonatal hematopoietic progenitors may be exquisitely sensitive to transformation by MLL fusion proteins. To test this possibility, we used transgenic mice to induce one translocation product, MLL-ENL, during fetal, neonatal, juvenile and adult stages of life. When MLL-ENL was induced in fetal or neonatal mice, almost all died of AML. In contrast, when MLL-ENL was induced in adult mice, most survived for >1 year despite sustained transgene expression. AML initiation was most efficient when MLL-ENL was induced in neonates, and even transient suppression of MLL-ENL in neonates could prevent AML in most mice. MLL-ENL target genes were induced more efficiently in neonatal progenitors than in adult progenitors, consistent with the distinct AML initiation efficiencies. Interestingly, transplantation stress mitigated the developmental barrier to leukemogenesis. Since fetal/neonatal progenitors were highly competent to initiate MLL-ENL-driven AML, we tested whether Lin28b, a fetal master regulator, could accelerate leukemogenesis. Surprisingly, Lin28b suppressed AML initiation rather than accelerating it. This may explain why MLL rearrangements often occur before birth in human infant leukemia patients, but transformation usually does not occur until after birth, when Lin28b levels decline. Our findings show that the efficiency of MLL-ENL-driven AML initiation changes through the course of pre- and postnatal development, and developmental programs can be manipulated to impede transformation.
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203
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Emerging evidence has shown that epigenetic derangements might drive and promote tumorigenesis in various types of malignancies and is prevalent in both B cell and T cell lymphomas. The purpose of this review is to explain how the epigenetic derangements result in a chromatin-remodeled state in lymphoma and contribute to the biology and clinical features of these tumors. RECENT FINDINGS Studies have explored on the functional role of epigenetic derangements in chromatin remodeling and lymphomagenesis. For example, the haploinsufficiency of CREBBP facilitates malignant transformation in mice and directly implicates the importance to re-establish the physiologic acetylation level. New findings identified 4 prominent DLBCL subtypes, including EZB-GC-DLBCL subtype that enriched in mutations of CREBBP, EP300, KMT2D, and SWI/SNF complex genes. EZB subtype has a worse prognosis than other GCB-tumors. Moreover, the action of the histone modifiers as well as chromatin-remodeling factors (e.g., SWI/SNF complex) cooperates to influence the chromatin state resulting in transcription repression. Drugs that alter the epigenetic landscape have been approved in T cell lymphoma. In line with this finding, epigenetic lesions in histone modifiers have recently been uncovered in this disease, further confirming the vulnerability to the therapies targeting epigenetic derangements. Modulating the chromatin state by epigenetic-modifying agents provides precision-medicine opportunities to patients with lymphomas that depend on this biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Liu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Yulissa Gonzalez
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer E Amengual
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA.
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204
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Forgione MO, McClure BJ, Yeung DT, Eadie LN, White DL. MLLT10 rearranged acute leukemia: Incidence, prognosis, and possible therapeutic strategies. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2020; 59:709-721. [PMID: 32720323 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.22887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Rearrangements of the MLLT10 gene occur in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), most commonly T-lineage ALL (T-ALL), in patients of all ages. MLLT10 rearranged (MLLT10r) acute leukemia presents a complex diagnostic and therapeutic challenge due to frequent presentation of immature or mixed phenotype, and a lack of consensus regarding optimal therapy. Cases of MLLT10r AML or T-ALL bearing immature phenotype are at high risk of poor outcome, but the underlying molecular mechanisms and sensitivity to targeted therapies remain poorly characterized. This review addresses the incidence and prognostic significance of MLLT10r in acute leukemia, and how the aberrant gene expression profile of this disease can inform potential targeted therapeutic strategies. Understanding the underlying genomics of MLLT10r acute leukemia, both clinically and molecularly, will improve prognostic stratification and accelerate the development of targeted therapeutic strategies, to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle O Forgione
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Science, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Barbara J McClure
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - David T Yeung
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Haematology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Laura N Eadie
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Deborah L White
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Science, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Australian Genomics Health Alliance (AGHA), The Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Australian and New Zealand Children's Oncology Group (ANZCHOG), Hudson Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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205
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Chellamuthu A, Gray SG. The RNA Methyltransferase NSUN2 and Its Potential Roles in Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081758. [PMID: 32708015 PMCID: PMC7463552 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
5-methylcytosine is often associated as an epigenetic modifier in DNA. However, it is also found increasingly in a plethora of RNA species, predominantly transfer RNAs, but increasingly found in cytoplasmic and mitochondrial ribosomal RNAs, enhancer RNAs, and a number of long noncoding RNAs. Moreover, this modification can also be found in messenger RNAs and has led to an increasing appreciation that RNA methylation can functionally regulate gene expression and cellular activities. In mammalian cells, the addition of m5C to RNA cytosines is carried out by enzymes of the NOL1/NOP2/SUN domain (NSUN) family as well as the DNA methyltransferase homologue DNMT2. In this regard, NSUN2 is a critical RNA methyltransferase for adding m5C to mRNA. In this review, using non-small cell lung cancer and other cancers as primary examples, we discuss the recent developments in the known functions of this RNA methyltransferase and its potential critical role in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anitha Chellamuthu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin D08 W9RT, Ireland;
| | - Steven G. Gray
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin D08 W9RT, Ireland;
- Thoracic Oncology Research Group, St. James’s Hospital, Dublin D08 RX0X, Ireland
- Correspondence:
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206
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Hou HA, Tien HF. Genomic landscape in acute myeloid leukemia and its implications in risk classification and targeted therapies. J Biomed Sci 2020; 27:81. [PMID: 32690020 PMCID: PMC7372828 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-020-00674-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous hematologic malignancy in terms of clinical features, underlying pathogenesis and treatment outcomes. Recent advances in genomic techniques have unraveled the molecular complexity of AML leukemogenesis, which in turn have led to refinement of risk stratification and personalized therapeutic strategies for patients with AML. Incorporation of prognostic and druggable genetic biomarkers into clinical practice to guide patient-specific treatment is going to be the mainstay in AML therapeutics. Since 2017 there has been an explosion of novel treatment options to tailor personalized therapy for AML patients. In the past 3 years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a total of eight drugs for the treatment of AML; most specifically target certain gene mutations, biological pathways, or surface antigen. These novel agents are especially beneficial for older patients or those with comorbidities, in whom the treatment choice is limited and the clinical outcome is very poor. How to balance efficacy and toxicity to further improve patient outcome is clinically relevant. In this review article, we give an overview of the most relevant genetic markers in AML with special focus on the therapeutic implications of these aberrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-An Hou
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hwei-Fang Tien
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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207
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Miyamoto K, Minami Y. Cutting Edge Molecular Therapy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145114. [PMID: 32698349 PMCID: PMC7404220 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, whole exome sequencing for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been performed by a next-generation sequencer in several studies. It has been revealed that a few gene mutations are identified per AML patient. Some of these mutations are actionable mutations that affect the response to an approved targeted treatment that is available for off-label treatment or that is available in clinical trials. The era of precision medicine for AML has arrived, and it is extremely important to detect actionable mutations relevant to treatment decision-making. However, the percentage of actionable mutations found in AML is about 50% at present, and therapeutic development is also needed for AML patients without actionable mutations. In contrast, the newly approved drugs are less toxic than conventional intensive chemotherapy and can be combined with low-intensity treatments. These combination therapies can contribute to the improvement of prognosis, especially in elderly AML patients who account for more than half of all AML patients. Thus, the treatment strategy for leukemia is changing drastically and showing rapid progress. In this review, we present the latest information regarding the recent development of treatment for AML.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Combined Modality Therapy/methods
- Drug Approval
- Epigenesis, Genetic/drug effects
- Humans
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/genetics
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/immunology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/therapy
- Molecular Targeted Therapy/methods
- Mutation/drug effects
- Precision Medicine/methods
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Small Molecule Libraries/pharmacology
- Small Molecule Libraries/therapeutic use
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yosuke Minami
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-4-7133-1111; Fax: +81-7133-6502
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208
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Inhibition of Methyltransferase DOT1L Sensitizes to Sorafenib Treatment AML Cells Irrespective of MLL-Rearrangements: A Novel Therapeutic Strategy for Pediatric AML. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071972. [PMID: 32698374 PMCID: PMC7409321 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis for which there are few effective targeted approaches, despite the numerous genetic alterations, including MLL gene rearrangements (MLL-r). The histone methyltransferase DOT1L is involved in supporting the proliferation of MLL-r cells, for which a target inhibitor, Pinometostat, has been evaluated in a clinical trial recruiting pediatric MLL-r leukemic patients. However, modest clinical effects have been observed. Recent studies have reported that additional leukemia subtypes lacking MLL-r are sensitive to DOT1L inhibition. Here, we report that targeting DOT1L with Pinometostat sensitizes pediatric AML cells to further treatment with the multi-kinase inhibitor Sorafenib, irrespectively of MLL-r. DOT1L pharmacologic inhibition induces AML cell differentiation and modulates the expression of genes with relevant roles in cancer development. Such modifications in the transcriptional program increase the apoptosis and growth suppression of both AML cell lines and primary pediatric AML cells with diverse genotypes. Through ChIP-seq analysis, we identified the genes regulated by DOT1L irrespective of MLL-r, including the Sorafenib target BRAF, providing mechanistic insights into the drug combination activity. Our results highlight a novel therapeutic strategy for pediatric AML patients.
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209
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Rugo HS, Jacobs I, Sharma S, Scappaticci F, Paul TA, Jensen-Pergakes K, Malouf GG. The Promise for Histone Methyltransferase Inhibitors for Epigenetic Therapy in Clinical Oncology: A Narrative Review. Adv Ther 2020; 37:3059-3082. [PMID: 32445185 PMCID: PMC7467409 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01379-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic processes are essential for normal development and the maintenance of tissue-specific gene expression in mammals. Changes in gene expression and malignant cellular transformation can result from disruption of epigenetic mechanisms, and global disruption in the epigenetic landscape is a key feature of cancer. The study of epigenetics in cancer has revealed that human cancer cells harbor both genetic alterations and epigenetic abnormalities that interplay at all stages of cancer development. Unlike genetic mutations, epigenetic aberrations are potentially reversible through epigenetic therapy, providing a therapeutically relevant treatment option. Histone methyltransferase inhibitors are emerging as an epigenetic therapy approach with great promise in the field of clinical oncology. The recent accelerated approval of the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2; also known as histone-lysine N-methyltransferase EZH2) inhibitor tazemetostat for metastatic or locally advanced epithelioid sarcoma marks the first approval of such a compound for the treatment of cancer. Many other histone methyltransferase inhibitors are currently in development, some of which are being tested in clinical studies. This review focuses on histone methyltransferase inhibitors, highlighting their potential in the treatment of cancer. We also discuss the role for such epigenetic drugs in overcoming epigenetically driven drug resistance mechanisms, and their value in combination with other therapeutic approaches such as immunotherapy.
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210
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Yamashita M, Dellorusso PV, Olson OC, Passegué E. Dysregulated haematopoietic stem cell behaviour in myeloid leukaemogenesis. Nat Rev Cancer 2020; 20:365-382. [PMID: 32415283 PMCID: PMC7658795 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-020-0260-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Haematopoiesis is governed by haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that produce all lineages of blood and immune cells. The maintenance of blood homeostasis requires a dynamic response of HSCs to stress, and dysregulation of these adaptive-response mechanisms underlies the development of myeloid leukaemia. Leukaemogenesis often occurs in a stepwise manner, with genetic and epigenetic changes accumulating in pre-leukaemic HSCs prior to the emergence of leukaemic stem cells (LSCs) and the development of acute myeloid leukaemia. Clinical data have revealed the existence of age-related clonal haematopoiesis, or the asymptomatic clonal expansion of mutated blood cells in the elderly, and this phenomenon is connected to susceptibility to leukaemic transformation. Here we describe how selection for specific mutations that increase HSC competitive fitness, in conjunction with additional endogenous and environmental changes, drives leukaemic transformation. We review the ways in which LSCs take advantage of normal HSC properties to promote survival and expansion, thus underlying disease recurrence and resistance to conventional therapies, and we detail our current understanding of leukaemic 'stemness' regulation. Overall, we link the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating HSC behaviour with the functional dysregulation of these mechanisms in myeloid leukaemia and discuss opportunities for targeting LSC-specific mechanisms for the prevention or cure of malignant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Yamashita
- Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Stem Cell and Molecular Medicine, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Paul V Dellorusso
- Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Oakley C Olson
- Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emmanuelle Passegué
- Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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211
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Deutsch JL, Heath JL. MLLT10 in benign and malignant hematopoiesis. Exp Hematol 2020; 87:1-12. [PMID: 32569758 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2020.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Non-random chromosomal translocations involving the putative transcription factor Mixed Lineage Leukemia Translocated to 10 (MLLT10, also known as AF10) are commonly observed in both acute myeloid and lymphoid leukemias and are indicative of a poor prognosis. Despite the well-described actions of oncogenic MLLT10 fusion proteins, the role of wild-type MLLT10 in hematopoiesis is not well characterized. The protein structure and several interacting partners have been described and provide indications as to the potential functions of MLLT10. This review examines these aspects of MLLT10, contextualizing its function in benign and malignant hematopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L Deutsch
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
| | - Jessica L Heath
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT; Department of Biochemistry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405; University of Vermont Cancer Center, Burlington, VT.
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212
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Uckelmann HJ, Armstrong SA. Chromatin Complexes Maintain Self-Renewal of Myeloid Progenitors in AML: Opportunities for Therapeutic Intervention. Stem Cell Reports 2020; 15:6-12. [PMID: 32559456 PMCID: PMC7363875 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Specific subgroups of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), including those containing MLL rearrangements and NPM1c mutations, possess characteristic stem cell-like gene expression profiles. These expression programs are highly dependent on components of the MLL histone methyltransferase complex, including Menin and DOT1L. Understanding the chromatin-based mechanisms through which cancer cells subvert certain aspects of normal stem cell biology helped identify specific vulnerabilities and translate them into targeted therapy approaches. Exciting progress has been made in the development of small-molecule inhibitors targeting this epigenetic machinery in leukemia cells and prompted the development of clinical trials in patients with hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah J Uckelmann
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott A Armstrong
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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213
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Richart L, Margueron R. Drugging histone methyltransferases in cancer. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2020; 56:51-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2019.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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214
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Green SD, Konig H. Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia in the Era of Genomics-Achievements and Persisting Challenges. Front Genet 2020; 11:480. [PMID: 32536937 PMCID: PMC7267060 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) represents a malignant disorder of the hematopoietic system that is mainly characterized by rapid proliferation, dysregulated apoptosis, and impaired differentiation of leukemic blasts. For several decades, the diagnostic approach in AML was largely based on histologic characteristics with little impact on the treatment decision-making process. This perspective has drastically changed within the past years due to the advent of novel molecular technologies, such as whole genome next-generation sequencing (NGS), and the resulting knowledge gain in AML biology and pathogenesis. After more than four decades of intensive chemotherapy as a "one-size-fits-all" concept, several targeted agents have recently been approved for the treatment of AML, either as single agents or as part of combined treatment regimens. Several other compounds, directed against regulators of apoptotic, epigenetic, or microenvironmental pathways, as well as modulators of the immune system, are currently in development and being investigated in clinical trials. The constant progress in AML research has started to produce improved survival rates and fueled hopes that a once rapidly fatal disease can be transformed into a chronic condition. In this review, the authors provide a summary of recent advances in the development of targeted AML therapies and discuss persistent challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heiko Konig
- Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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215
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Banday S, Farooq Z, Ganai SA, Altaf M. Therapeutic strategies against hDOT1L as a potential drug target in MLL-rearranged leukemias. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:73. [PMID: 32450905 PMCID: PMC7249331 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00860-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic intervention of proteins participating in chromatin-mediated signaling with small-molecules is a novel option to reprogram expression networks for restraining disease states. Protein methyltransferases form the prominent family of such proteins regulating gene expression via epigenetic mechanisms thereby representing novel targets for pharmacological intervention. Disruptor of telomeric silencing, hDot1L is the only non-SET domain containing histone methyltransferase that methylates histone H3 at lysine 79. H3K79 methylation mediated by hDot1L plays a crucial role in mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) pathosis. MLL fusion protein mediated mistargeting of DOT1L to aberrant gene locations results in ectopic H3K79 methylation culminating in aberrant expression of leukemogenic genes like HOXA9 and MEIS1. hDOT1L has thus been proposed as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in MLL. This review presents the general overview of hDOT1L and its functional role in distinct biological processes. Furthermore, we discuss various therapeutic strategies against hDOT1L as a promising drug target to vanquish therapeutically challenging MLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Banday
- Chromatin and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India
| | - Zeenat Farooq
- Chromatin and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India
| | - Shabir Ahmad Ganai
- Chromatin and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India.,Present Address: Division of Basic Sciences and Humanities, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Kashmir, Wadura, Sopore, Jammu and Kashmir, 193201, India
| | - Mohammad Altaf
- Chromatin and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India. .,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India.
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216
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Johnston G, Ramsey HE, Liu Q, Wang J, Stengel KR, Sampathi S, Acharya P, Arrate M, Stubbs MC, Burn T, Savona MR, Hiebert SW. Nascent transcript and single-cell RNA-seq analysis defines the mechanism of action of the LSD1 inhibitor INCB059872 in myeloid leukemia. Gene 2020; 752:144758. [PMID: 32422235 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.144758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Drugs targeting chromatin-modifying enzymes have entered clinical trials for myeloid malignancies, including INCB059872, a selective irreversible inhibitor of Lysine-Specific Demethylase 1 (LSD1). While initial studies of LSD1 inhibitors suggested these compounds may be used to induce differentiation of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the mechanisms underlying this effect and dose-limiting toxicities are not well understood. Here, we used precision nuclear run-on sequencing (PRO-seq) and ChIP-seq in AML cell lines to probe for the earliest regulatory events associated with INCB059872 treatment. The changes in nascent transcription could be traced back to a loss of CoREST activity and activation of GFI1-regulated genes. INCB059872 is in phase I clinical trials, and we evaluated a pre-treatment bone marrow sample of a patient who showed a clinical response to INCB059872 while being treated with azacitidine. We used single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) to show that INCB059872 caused a shift in gene expression that was again associated with GFI1/GFI1B regulation. Finally, we treated mice with INCB059872 and performed scRNA-seq of lineage-negative bone marrow cells, which showed that INCB059872 triggered accumulation of megakaryocyte early progenitor cells with gene expression hallmarks of stem cells. Accumulation of these stem/progenitor cells may contribute to the thrombocytopenia observed in patients treated with LSD1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen Johnston
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Haley E Ramsey
- Department of Medicine and Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37203, USA; Center for Quantitative Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37203, USA; Center for Quantitative Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Kristy R Stengel
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Shilpa Sampathi
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Pankaj Acharya
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Maria Arrate
- Department of Medicine and Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
| | | | | | - Michael R Savona
- Department of Medicine and Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37203, USA; Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37027, USA
| | - Scott W Hiebert
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37027, USA.
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217
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Epigenetic regulation of protein translation in KMT2A-rearranged AML. Exp Hematol 2020; 85:57-69. [PMID: 32437908 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2020.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Inhibition of the H3K79 histone methyltransferase DOT1L has exhibited encouraging preclinical and early clinical activity in KMT2A (MLL)-rearranged leukemia, supporting the development of combinatorial therapies. Here, we investigated two novel combinations: dual inhibition of the histone methyltransferases DOT1L and EZH2, and the combination with a protein synthesis inhibitor. EZH2 is the catalytic subunit in the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), and inhibition of EZH2 has been reported to have preclinical activity in KMT2A-r leukemia. When combined with DOT1L inhibition, however, we observed both synergistic and antagonistic effects. Interestingly, antagonistic effects were not due to PRC2-mediated de-repression of HOXA9. HOXA cluster genes are key canonical targets of both KMT2A and the PRC2 complex. The independence of the HOXA cluster from PRC2 repression in KMT2A-r leukemia thus affords important insights into leukemia biology. Further studies revealed that EZH2 inhibition counteracted the effect of DOT1L inhibition on ribosomal gene expression. We thus identified a previously unrecognized role of DOT1L in regulating protein production. Decreased translation was one of the earliest effects measurable after DOT1L inhibition and specific to KMT2A-rearranged cell lines. H3K79me2 chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing patterns over ribosomal genes were similar to those of the canonical KMT2A-fusion target genes in primary AML patient samples. The effects of DOT1L inhibition on ribosomal gene expression prompted us to evaluate the combination of EPZ5676 with a protein translation inhibitor. EPZ5676 was synergistic with the protein translation inhibitor homoharringtonine (omacetaxine), supporting further preclinical/clinical development of this combination. In summary, we discovered a novel epigenetic regulation of a metabolic process-protein synthesis-that plays a role in leukemogenesis and affords a combinatorial therapeutic opportunity.
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218
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Huang AZ, Delaidelli A, Sorensen PH. RNA modifications in brain tumorigenesis. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2020; 8:64. [PMID: 32375856 PMCID: PMC7204278 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-020-00941-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA modifications are emerging as critical regulators in cancer biology, thanks to their ability to influence gene expression and the predominant protein isoforms expressed during cell proliferation, migration, and other pro-oncogenic properties. The reversibility and dynamic nature of post-transcriptional RNA modifications allow cells to quickly adapt to microenvironmental changes. Recent literature has revealed that the deregulation of RNA modifications can promote a plethora of developmental diseases, including tumorigenesis. In this review, we will focus on four key post-transcriptional RNA modifications which have been identified as contributors to the pathogenesis of brain tumors: m6A, alternative polyadenylation, alternative splicing and adenosine to inosine modifications. In addition to the role of RNA modifications in brain tumor progression, we will also discuss potential opportunities to target these processes to improve the dismal prognosis for brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Z Huang
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Alberto Delaidelli
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1L3, Canada.
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Poul H Sorensen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1L3, Canada.
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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219
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MLL-rearranged infant leukaemia: A 'thorn in the side' of a remarkable success story. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194564. [PMID: 32376390 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Advances in treatment of childhood leukaemia has led to vastly improved survival rates, however some subtypes such as those characterised by MLL gene rearrangement (MLL-r), especially in infants, continue to have high relapse rates and poor survival. Natural history and molecular studies indicate that infant acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) originates in utero, is distinct from childhood ALL, and most cases are caused by MLL-r resulting in an oncogenic MLL fusion protein. Unlike childhood ALL, only a very small number of additional mutations are present in infant ALL, indicating that MLL-r alone may be sufficient to give rise to this rapid onset, aggressive leukaemia in an appropriate fetal cell context. Despite modifications in treatment approaches, the outcome of MLL-r infant ALL has remained dismal and a clear understanding of the underlying biology of the disease is required in order to develop appropriate disease models and more effective therapeutic strategies.
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220
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Schwaller J. Learning from mouse models of MLL fusion gene-driven acute leukemia. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194550. [PMID: 32320749 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
5-10% of human acute leukemias carry chromosomal translocations involving the mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene that result in the expression of chimeric protein fusing MLL to >80 different partners of which AF4, ENL and AF9 are the most prevalent. In contrast to many other leukemia-associated mutations, several MLL-fusions are powerful oncogenes that transform hematopoietic stem cells but also more committed progenitor cells. Here, I review different approaches that were used to express MLL fusions in the murine hematopoietic system which often, but not always, resulted in highly penetrant and transplantable leukemias that closely phenocopied the human disease. Due to its simple and reliable nature, reconstitution of irradiated mice with bone marrow cells retrovirally expressing the MLL-AF9 fusion became the most frequently in vivo model to study the biology of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). I review some of the most influential studies that used this model to dissect critical protein interactions, the impact of epigenetic regulators, microRNAs and microenvironment-dependent signals for MLL fusion-driven leukemia. In addition, I highlight studies that used this model for shRNA- or genome editing-based screens for cellular vulnerabilities that allowed to identify novel therapeutic targets of which some entered clinical trials. Finally, I discuss some inherent characteristics of the widely used mouse model based on retroviral expression of the MLL-AF9 fusion that can limit general conclusions for the biology of AML. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The MLL family of proteins in normal development and disease edited by Thomas A Milne.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juerg Schwaller
- University Children's Hospital Beider Basel (UKBB), Basel, Switzerland; Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Switzerland.
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221
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The reciprocal world of MLL fusions: A personal view. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194547. [PMID: 32294539 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Over the last 15 years the Diagnostic Center of Acute Leukemia (DCAL) at the Frankfurt University has diagnosed and elucidated the Mixed Lineage Leukemia (MLL) recombinome with >100 MLL fusion partners. When analyzing all these different events, balanced chromosomal translocations were found to comprise the majority of these cases (~70%), while other types of genetic rearrangements (3-way-translocations, spliced fusions, 11q inversions, interstitial deletions or insertion of chromosomal fragments into other chromosomes) account for about 30%. In nearly all those complex cases, functional fusion proteins can be produced by transcription, splicing and translation. With a few exceptions (10 out of 102 fusion genes which were per se out-of-frame), all these genetic rearrangements produced a direct MLL fusion gene, and in 94% of cases an additional reciprocal fusion gene. So far, 114 patients (out of 2454 = ~5%) have been diagnosed only with the reciprocal fusion allele, displaying no MLL-X allele. The fact that so many MLL rearrangements bear at least two fusion alleles, but also our findings that several direct MLL fusions were either out-of-frame fusions or missing, raises the question about the function and importance of reciprocal MLL fusions. Recent findings also demonstrate the presence of reciprocal MLL fusions in sarcoma patients. Here, we want to discuss the role of reciprocal MLL fusion proteins for leukemogenesis and beyond.
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Byun WS, Kim WK, Yoon JS, Jarhad DB, Jeong LS, Lee SK. Antiproliferative and Antimigration Activities of Fluoro-Neplanocin A via Inhibition of Histone H3 Methylation in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10040530. [PMID: 32244385 PMCID: PMC7226301 DOI: 10.3390/biom10040530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is among the most aggressive and potentially metastatic malignancies. Most affected patients have poor clinical outcomes due to the lack of specific molecular targets on tumor cells. The upregulated expression of disruptor of telomeric silencing 1-like (DOT1L), a histone methyltransferase specific for the histone H3 lysine 79 residue (H3K79), is strongly correlated with TNBC cell aggressiveness. Therefore, DOT1L is considered a potential molecular target in TNBC. Fluoro-neplanocin A (F-NepA), an inhibitor of S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase, exhibited potent antiproliferative activity against various types of cancer cells, including breast cancers. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the anticancer activity of F-NepA in TNBC cells remains to be elucidated. We determined that F-NepA exhibited a higher growth-inhibitory activity against TNBC cells relative to non-TNBC breast cancer and normal breast epithelial cells. Moreover, F-NepA effectively downregulated the level of H3K79me2 in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells by inhibiting DOT1L activity. F-NepA also significantly inhibited TNBC cell migration and invasion. These activities of F-NepA might be associated with the upregulation of E-cadherin and downregulation of N-cadherin and Vimentin in TNBC cells. Taken together, these data highlight F-NepA as a strong potential candidate for the targeted treatment of high-DOT1L-expressing TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woong Sub Byun
- College of Pharmacy, Natural Products Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (W.S.B.); (W.K.K.)
| | - Won Kyung Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Natural Products Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (W.S.B.); (W.K.K.)
| | - Ji-seong Yoon
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (J.-s.Y.); (D.B.J.); (L.S.J.)
| | - Dnyandev B. Jarhad
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (J.-s.Y.); (D.B.J.); (L.S.J.)
| | - Lak Shin Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (J.-s.Y.); (D.B.J.); (L.S.J.)
| | - Sang Kook Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Natural Products Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (W.S.B.); (W.K.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-880-2475
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223
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Bedi RK, Huang D, Eberle SA, Wiedmer L, Śledź P, Caflisch A. Small-Molecule Inhibitors of METTL3, the Major Human Epitranscriptomic Writer. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:744-748. [PMID: 32159918 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The RNA methylase METTL3 catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group from the cofactor S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) to the N6 atom of adenine. We have screened a library of 4000 analogues and derivatives of the adenosine moiety of SAM by high-throughput docking into METTL3. Two series of adenine derivatives were identified in silico, and the binding mode of six of the predicted inhibitors was validated by protein crystallography. Two compounds, one for each series, show good ligand efficiency. We propose a route for their further development into potent and selective inhibitors of METTL3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv K Bedi
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Danzhi Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie A Eberle
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
- Current address: Department of Biomedical Sciences Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Wiedmer
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Pawel Śledź
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Amedeo Caflisch
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
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224
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Dafflon C, Gaulis S, Barys L, Kapur K, Cornacchione V, Schukur L, Bergling S, Traggiai E, Jansky S, Hellmann L, Engstler BS, Kerr G, de Weck A, Ruddy DA, Naumann U, Stauffer F, Gaul C, Lin Y, Billy E, Weiss A, Hofmann F, Ito M, Tiedt R. DOT1L inhibition is lethal for multiple myeloma due to perturbation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway. Oncotarget 2020; 11:956-968. [PMID: 32215184 PMCID: PMC7082114 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The histone 3 lysine 79 (H3K79) methyltransferase (HMT) DOT1L is known to play a critical role for growth and survival of MLL-rearranged leukemia. Serendipitous observations during high-throughput drug screens indicated that the use of DOT1L inhibitors might be expandable to multiple myeloma (MM). Through pharmacologic and genetic experiments, we could validate that DOT1L is essential for growth and viability of a subset of MM cell lines, in line with a recent report from another team. In vivo activity against established MM xenografts was observed with a novel DOT1L inhibitor. In order to understand the molecular mechanism of the dependency in MM, we examined gene expression changes upon DOT1L inhibition in sensitive and insensitive cell lines and discovered that genes belonging to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathway and protein synthesis machinery were specifically suppressed in sensitive cells. Whole-genome CRISPR screens in the presence or absence of a DOT1L inhibitor revealed that concomitant targeting of the H3K4me3 methyltransferase SETD1B increases the effect of DOT1L inhibition. Our results provide a strong basis for further investigating DOT1L and SETD1B as targets in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Dafflon
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Swann Gaulis
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Louise Barys
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Lina Schukur
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Selina Jansky
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Leon Hellmann
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Grainne Kerr
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Antoine de Weck
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Ulrike Naumann
- NIBR Analytical Sciences and Imaging, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Ying Lin
- China Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Shanghai, China
| | - Eric Billy
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Weiss
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Hofmann
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Moriko Ito
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ralph Tiedt
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Oncology, Basel, Switzerland
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225
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Epigenetic therapies in acute myeloid leukemia: where to from here? Blood 2020; 134:1891-1901. [PMID: 31697822 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019003262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A hallmark of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is epigenetic dysregulation, which is initiated by recurrent translocations and/or mutations in transcription factors and chromatin regulators. This manifests as a block in myeloid differentiation and an increase in malignant self-renewal. These common features of AML have led to widespread optimism that epigenetic therapies would dramatically change the natural history of this disease. Although preclinical studies with these drugs fueled this optimism, results from early clinical trials have offered a more sobering message. Here, we provide an overview of epigenetic therapies that are currently approved by therapeutic regulatory authorities across the world and those undergoing early-phase clinical trials. We also discuss the conceptual and molecular factors that may explain some of the disparity between the bench and bedside, as well as emerging avenues for combining the current generation of epigenetic therapies with other classes of agents and the development of novel epigenetic therapies. With further research and development of this exciting class of drugs, we may finally be able to dramatically improve outcomes for patients afflicted with this aggressive and often incurable malignancy.
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226
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Interferon- Stimulation Elicited by the Influenza Virus Is Regulated by the Histone Methylase Dot1L through the RIG-I-TRIM25 Signaling Axis. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030732. [PMID: 32188146 PMCID: PMC7140698 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza virus infection increases the methylation of lysine 79 of histone 3 catalyzed by the Dot1L enzyme. The role of Dot1L against infections was highlighted by an increase of influenza A and vesicular stomatitis virus replication in Dot1L-inhibited cells mediated by a decreased antiviral response. Interferon-beta (IFN-β) reporter assays indicate that Dot1L is involved in the control of retinoic acid-inducible geneI protein (RIG-I) signaling. Accordingly, Dot1L inhibition decreases the IFN-β promoter stimulation and RIG-I- mitochondria-associated viral sensor (RIG-I-MAVS) association upon viral infection. Replication of an influenza A virus lacking NS1 (delNS1), incapable of counteracting the antiviral response, is not affected by Dot1L inhibition. Consequently, RIG-I-MAVS association and nuclear factor-B (NF-κ nuclear translocation, are not affected by the Dot1L inhibition in delNS1 infected cells. Restoration of NS1 expression in trans also reinstated Dot1L as a regulator of the RIG-I-dependent signaling in delNS1 infections. Interferon-inducible E3 ligase tripartite motif-containing protein 25 (TRIM25) expression increases in influenza virus infected cells, but Dot1L inhibition reduces both the TRIM25 expression and TRIM25 protein levels. TRIM25 overexpression reverses the defective innate response mediated by Dot1L inhibition elicited upon virus infection or by overexpression of RIG-I signaling intermediates. Thus, TRIM25 is a control point of the RIG-I recognition pathway controlled by Dot1L and may have a general role in RNA viruses recognized by the RIG-I sensor.
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227
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Chen J, Glasser CL. New and Emerging Targeted Therapies for Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 7:E12. [PMID: 32050659 PMCID: PMC7072702 DOI: 10.3390/children7020012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The relapse rate for children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains high despite advancements in risk classification, multi-agent chemotherapy intensification, stem cell transplantation, and supportive care guidelines. Prognosis for this subgroup of children with relapsed/refractory AML remains poor. It is well known that the ceiling of chemotherapy intensification has been reached, limited by acute and chronic toxicity, necessitating alternative treatment approaches. In the last several years, our improved understanding of disease biology and critical molecular pathways in AML has yielded a variety of new drugs to target these specific pathways. This review provides a summary of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), small molecule inhibitors, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors with an emphasis on those that are currently under clinical evaluation or soon to open in early phase trials for children with relapsed/refractory AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA
| | - Chana L. Glasser
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, NYU Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
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228
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Fiorentini A, Capelli D, Saraceni F, Menotti D, Poloni A, Olivieri A. The Time Has Come for Targeted Therapies for AML: Lights and Shadows. Oncol Ther 2020; 8:13-32. [PMID: 32700072 PMCID: PMC7359996 DOI: 10.1007/s40487-019-00108-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a complex disease characterized by genetic and clinical heterogeneity and high mortality. After 40 years during which the standard of care for patients evolved very little, the therapeutic landscape has recently seen rapid changes, with the approval of eight new drugs by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within the last 2 years, providing new opportunities, as well as new challenges, for treating clinicians. These therapies include FLT3 inhibitors midostaurin and gilteritinib, CPX-351 (liposomal cytarabine and daunorubicin), gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO, anti-CD33 monoclonal antibody conjugated with calicheamicin), IDH1/IDH2 inhibitors ivosidenib and enasidenib, Hedgehog inhibitor glasdegib, and BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax. In this review, we summarize currently available data on these new drugs and discuss the rapidly evolving therapeutic armamentarium for AML, focusing on targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Fiorentini
- Hematology Department and Stem Cell Transplant Unit, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Debora Capelli
- Hematology Department and Stem Cell Transplant Unit, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Saraceni
- Hematology Department and Stem Cell Transplant Unit, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Diego Menotti
- Hematology Department and Stem Cell Transplant Unit, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Antonella Poloni
- Hematology Department and Stem Cell Transplant Unit, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Attilio Olivieri
- Hematology Department and Stem Cell Transplant Unit, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Ancona, Italy.
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229
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Tomaselli D, Lucidi A, Rotili D, Mai A. Epigenetic polypharmacology: A new frontier for epi-drug discovery. Med Res Rev 2020; 40:190-244. [PMID: 31218726 PMCID: PMC6917854 DOI: 10.1002/med.21600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recently, despite the great success achieved by the so-called "magic bullets" in the treatment of different diseases through a marked and specific interaction with the target of interest, the pharmacological research is moving toward the development of "molecular network active compounds," embracing the related polypharmacology approach. This strategy was born to overcome the main limitations of the single target therapy leading to a superior therapeutic effect, a decrease of adverse reactions, and a reduction of potential mechanism(s) of drug resistance caused by robustness and redundancy of biological pathways. It has become clear that multifactorial diseases such as cancer, neurological, and inflammatory disorders, may require more complex therapeutic approaches hitting a certain biological system as a whole. Concerning epigenetics, the goal of the multi-epi-target approach consists in the development of small molecules able to simultaneously and (often) reversibly bind different specific epi-targets. To date, two dual histone deacetylase/kinase inhibitors (CUDC-101 and CUDC-907) are in an advanced stage of clinical trials. In the last years, the growing interest in polypharmacology encouraged the publication of high-quality reviews on combination therapy and hybrid molecules. Hence, to update the state-of-the-art of these therapeutic approaches avoiding redundancy, herein we focused only on multiple medication therapies and multitargeting compounds exploiting epigenetic plus nonepigenetic drugs reported in the literature in 2018. In addition, all the multi-epi-target inhibitors known in literature so far, hitting two or more epigenetic targets, have been included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Tomaselli
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs,
“Sapienza” University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Alessia Lucidi
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs,
“Sapienza” University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Dante Rotili
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs,
“Sapienza” University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Antonello Mai
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs,
“Sapienza” University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
- Pasteur Institute - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Viale
Regina Elena 291, 00161 Roma, Italy
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230
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Yang L, Lei Q, Li L, Yang J, Dong Z, Cui H. Silencing or inhibition of H3K79 methyltransferase DOT1L induces cell cycle arrest by epigenetically modulating c-Myc expression in colorectal cancer. Clin Epigenetics 2019; 11:199. [PMID: 31888761 PMCID: PMC6937672 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-019-0778-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic regulations play pivotal roles in tumorigenesis and cancer development. Disruptor of telomeric silencing-1-like (DOT1L), also known as KMT4, is the only identified histone methyltransferase that catalyzes the mono-, di-, and tri-methylation of lysine 79 histone 3 (H3K79). However, little is known about the effect of H3K79 methylation on the modulation of colorectal cancer (CRC) development. METHODS DOT1L expression profiles in different subgroups of CRC tissues and its clinical significances were analyzed from some online datasheets. DOT1L in CRC cell lines was silenced by either lentivirus-mediated knockdown or inhibited by its specific inhibitor, EPZ004777. Then cell proliferation was detected by MTT assay, BrdU assay, and soft agar assay; cell cycle was detected by cytometry; and tumorigenicity was detected by using nude mice xenograft models. Clinical co-expression was analyzed between DOT1L and c-Myc. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay was used to determine whether the translation of c-Myc was epigenetically regulated by H3K79me2 induced by DOT1L. c-Myc overexpression was used to rescue the cell cycle arrest and tumor growth induced by DOT1L silencing or inhibition in CRC. RESULTS We found that DOT1L was highly expressed in colorectal cancer and was negatively related to the prognosis of patients with CRC. Silencing or inhibition of DOT1L blocked cell proliferation, BrdU incorporation, self-renewal capability in vitro, and tumorigenicity in vivo. Besides, inhibition or silencing of DOT1L also induced cell cycle arrest at S phase, as well as decreased the expression of CDK2 and Cyclin A2. Furthermore, in the clinical databases of CRC, we found that the expression of DOT1L was positively correlated with that of c-Myc, a major regulator in the upstream of cell cycle-related factors. Besides, c-Myc expression was downregulated after DOT1L knockdown and c-Myc restoration rescued decrease of cell proliferation, BrdU corporation, self-renewal capability, cell cycle progression in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo induced by DOT1L silencing. Then we found that H3K79 methylation was decreased after DOT1L knockdown. ChIP assay showed that H3K79me2 was enriched on the - 682~+ 284 region of c-Myc promoter, and the enrichment was decreased after DOT1L inhibition. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that DOT1L epigenetically promotes the transcription of c-Myc via H3K79me2. DOT1L silencing or inhibition induces cell cycle arrest at S phase. DOT1L is a potential marker for colorectal cancer and EPZ004777 may be a potential drug for the treatment of colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, No.2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Qian Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, No.2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Lin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, No.2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Jie Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, No.2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Zhen Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, No.2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China. .,Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China. .,Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China. .,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, No.2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China. .,Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China. .,Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China. .,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400716, China.
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231
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Sarno F, Nebbioso A, Altucci L. DOT1L: a key target in normal chromatin remodelling and in mixed-lineage leukaemia treatment. Epigenetics 2019; 15:439-453. [PMID: 31790636 PMCID: PMC7188393 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2019.1699991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylation of histone 3 at lysine 79 (H3K79) is one of the principal mechanisms involved in gene expression. The histone methyltransferase DOT1L, which mono-, di- and trimethylates H3K79 using S-adenosyl-L-methionine as a co-factor, is involved in cell development, cell cycle progression, and DNA damage repair. However, changes in normal expression levels of this enzyme are found in prostate, breast, and ovarian cancer. High levels of H3K79me are also detected in acute myeloid leukaemia patients bearing MLL rearrangements (MLL-r). MLL translocations are found in approximately 80% of paediatric patients, leading to poor prognosis. DOT1L is recruited on DNA and induces hyperexpression of HOXA9 and MEIS1. Based on these findings, selective drugs have been developed to induce apoptosis in MLL-r leukaemia cells by specifically inhibiting DOT1L. The most potent DOT1L inhibitor pinometostat has been investigated in Phase I clinical trials for treatment of paediatric and adult patients with MLL-driven leukaemia, showing promising results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Sarno
- Dipartimento di Medicina di Precisione, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela Nebbioso
- Dipartimento di Medicina di Precisione, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina di Precisione, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" Napoli, Napoli, Italy
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232
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Duan Y, Zhang X, Yang L, Dong X, Zheng Z, Cheng Y, Chen H, Lan B, Li D, Zhou J, Xuan C. Disruptor of telomeric silencing 1-like (DOT1L) is involved in breast cancer metastasis via transcriptional regulation of MALAT1 and ZEB2. J Genet Genomics 2019; 46:591-594. [PMID: 31952940 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2019.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Duan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China; Department of Gynecology, Tianjin Medical University NanKai Hospital, Tianjin 300100, China
| | - Xingyan Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Lihong Yang
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Xu Dong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Zhanye Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yiming Cheng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Bei Lan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Dengwen Li
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Shandong 250014, China
| | - Chenghao Xuan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
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233
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Stauffer F, Weiss A, Scheufler C, Möbitz H, Ragot C, Beyer KS, Calkins K, Guthy D, Kiffe M, Van Eerdenbrugh B, Tiedt R, Gaul C. New Potent DOT1L Inhibitors for in Vivo Evaluation in Mouse. ACS Med Chem Lett 2019; 10:1655-1660. [PMID: 31857842 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.9b00452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In MLL-rearranged cancer cells, disruptor of telomeric silencing 1-like protein (DOT1L) is aberrantly recruited to ectopic loci leading to local hypermethylation of H3K79 and consequently misexpression of leukemogenic genes. A structure-guided optimization of a HTS hit led to the discovery of DOT1L inhibitors with subnanomolar potency, allowing testing of the therapeutic principle of DOT1L inhibition in a preclinical mouse tumor xenograft model. Compounds displaying good exposure in mouse and nanomolar inhibition of target gene expression in cells were obtained and tested in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Stauffer
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Weiss
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Clemens Scheufler
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Henrik Möbitz
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Ragot
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kim S. Beyer
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Keith Calkins
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Guthy
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Kiffe
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Ralph Tiedt
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Gaul
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
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234
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Verhoeven J, De Vleeschouwer F, Kong H, Van Hecke K, Pande V, Sun W, Vos A, Wu T, Meerpoel L, Thuring JW, Verniest G. Preparation of 4'-Spirocyclobutyl Nucleoside Analogues as Novel and Versatile Adenosine Scaffolds. Chemistry 2019; 25:15419-15423. [PMID: 31609050 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201904574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Despite the large variety of modified nucleosides that have been reported, the preparation of constrained 4'-spirocyclic adenosine analogues has received very little attention. We discovered that the [2+2]-cycloaddition of dichloroketene on readily available 4'-exo-methylene furanose sugars efficiently results in the diastereoselective formation of novel 4'-spirocyclobutanones. The reaction mechanism was investigated via density functional theory (DFT) and found to proceed either via a non-synchronous or stepwise reaction sequence, controlled by the stereochemistry at the 3'-position of the sugar substrate. The obtained dichlorocyclobutanones were converted into nucleoside analogues, providing access to a novel class of chiral 4'-spirocyclobutyl adenosine mimetics in eight steps from commercially available sugars. Assessment of the biological activity of designed 4'-spirocyclic adenosine analogues identified potent inhibitors for protein methyltransferase target PRMT5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Verhoeven
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry (ORGC), Department of Chemistry and Department of Bio-engineering Sciences, Faculty of Science and Bio-engineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Freija De Vleeschouwer
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry (ORGC), Department of Chemistry and Department of Bio-engineering Sciences, Faculty of Science and Bio-engineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium.,Research Group of General Chemistry (ALGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hanchu Kong
- Department of Synthetic Chemistry, Pharmaron Beijing Co., Ltd., 6 Taihe Road BDA, Beijing, 100176, P. R. China
| | - Kristof Van Hecke
- Department of Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-S3, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vineet Pande
- Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Weimei Sun
- Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Ann Vos
- Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Tongfei Wu
- Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Lieven Meerpoel
- Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | - Guido Verniest
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry (ORGC), Department of Chemistry and Department of Bio-engineering Sciences, Faculty of Science and Bio-engineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium.,Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
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235
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Ganesan A, Arimondo PB, Rots MG, Jeronimo C, Berdasco M. The timeline of epigenetic drug discovery: from reality to dreams. Clin Epigenetics 2019; 11:174. [PMID: 31791394 PMCID: PMC6888921 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-019-0776-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The flexibility of the epigenome has generated an enticing argument to explore its reversion through pharmacological treatments as a strategy to ameliorate disease phenotypes. All three families of epigenetic proteins—readers, writers, and erasers—are druggable targets that can be addressed through small-molecule inhibitors. At present, a few drugs targeting epigenetic enzymes as well as analogues of epigenetic modifications have been introduced into the clinic use (e.g. to treat haematological malignancies), and a wide range of epigenetic-based drugs are undergoing clinical trials. Here, we describe the timeline of epigenetic drug discovery and development beginning with the early design based solely on phenotypic observations to the state-of-the-art rational epigenetic drug discovery using validated targets. Finally, we will highlight some of the major aspects that need further research and discuss the challenges that need to be overcome to implement epigenetic drug discovery into clinical management of human disorders. To turn into reality, researchers from various disciplines (chemists, biologists, clinicians) need to work together to optimise the drug engineering, read-out assays, and clinical trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ganesan
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Paola B Arimondo
- Epigenetic Chemical Biology, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3523, 28 rue du Docteur Roux, 75724, Paris, France
| | - Marianne G Rots
- Epigenetic Editing, Dept. Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Carmen Jeronimo
- Cancer Biology & Epigenetics Group, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - María Berdasco
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. .,Epigenetic Therapies, Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), IJC Building, Campus ICO-Germans Trias i Pujol, Ctra de Can Ruti, Camí de les Escoles s/n 08916 Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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236
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Camarillo JM, Swaminathan S, Abshiru NA, Sikora JW, Thomas PM, Kelleher NL. Coupling Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting and Targeted Analysis of Histone Modification Profiles in Primary Human Leukocytes. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2019; 30:2526-2534. [PMID: 31286445 PMCID: PMC6917871 DOI: 10.1007/s13361-019-02255-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs) are essential for regulating chromatin and maintaining gene expression throughout cell differentiation. Despite the deep level of understanding of immunophenotypic differentiation pathways in hematopoietic cells, few studies have investigated global levels of histone PTMs required for differentiation and maintenance of these distinct cell types. Here, we describe an approach to couple fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) with targeted mass spectrometry to define global "epi-proteomic" signatures for primary leukocytes. FACS was used to sort closely and distantly related leukocytes from normal human peripheral blood for quantitation of histone PTMs with a multiple reaction monitoring LC-MS/MS method measuring histone PTMs on histones H3 and H4. We validate cell sorting directly into H2SO4 for immediate histone extraction to decrease time and number of steps after FACS to analyze histone PTMs. Relative histone PTM levels vary in T cells across healthy donors, and the majority of PTMs remain stable up to 2 days following initial blood draw. Large differences in the levels of histone PTMs are observed across the mature lymphoid and myeloid lineages, as well as between different types within the same lineage, though no differences are observed in closely related T cell subtypes. The results show a streamlined approach for quantifying global changes in histone PTMs in cell types separated by FACS that is poised for clinical deployment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannie M Camarillo
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences and the National Resource for Translational and Developmental Proteomics, Northwestern University, 2170 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Suchitra Swaminathan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nebiyu A Abshiru
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences and the National Resource for Translational and Developmental Proteomics, Northwestern University, 2170 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Jacek W Sikora
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences and the National Resource for Translational and Developmental Proteomics, Northwestern University, 2170 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Paul M Thomas
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences and the National Resource for Translational and Developmental Proteomics, Northwestern University, 2170 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.
| | - Neil L Kelleher
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences and the National Resource for Translational and Developmental Proteomics, Northwestern University, 2170 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.
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237
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Abstract
The epigenetic modifications of histones are versatile marks that are intimately connected to development and disease pathogenesis including human cancers. In this review, we will discuss the many different types of histone modifications and the biological processes with which they are involved. Specifically, we review the enzymatic machineries and modifications that are involved in cancer development and progression, and how to apply currently available small molecule inhibitors for histone modifiers as tool compounds to study the functional significance of histone modifications and their clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zibo Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Simpson Querrey 7th Floor 303 E. Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
- Simpson Querrey Center for Epigenetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Ali Shilatifard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Simpson Querrey 7th Floor 303 E. Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
- Simpson Querrey Center for Epigenetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
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238
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Marcos-Villar L, Nieto A. The DOT1L inhibitor Pinometostat decreases the host-response against infections: Considerations about its use in human therapy. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16862. [PMID: 31727944 PMCID: PMC6856118 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53239-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with acute myeloid leukemia frequently present translocations of MLL gene. Rearrangements of MLL protein (MLL-r) in complexes that contain the histone methyltransferase DOT1L are common, which elicit abnormal methylation of lysine 79 of histone H3 at MLL target genes. Phase 1 clinical studies with pinometostat (EPZ-5676), an inhibitor of DOT1L activity, demonstrated the therapeutic potential for targeting DOT1L in MLL-r leukemia patients. We previously reported that down-regulation of DOT1L increases influenza and vesicular stomatitis virus replication and decreases the antiviral response. Here we show that DOT1L inhibition also reduces Sendai virus-induced innate response and its overexpression decreases influenza virus multiplication, reinforcing the notion of DOT1L controlling viral replication. Accordingly, genes involved in the host innate response against pathogens (RUBICON, TRIM25, BCL3) are deregulated in human lung epithelial cells treated with pinometostat. Concomitantly, deregulation of some of these genes together with that of the MicroRNA let-7B, may account for the beneficial effects of pinometostat treatment in patients with MLL-r involving DOT1L. These results support a possible increased vulnerability to infection in MLL-r leukemia patients undergoing pinometostat treatment. Close follow up of infection should be considered in pinometostat therapy to reduce some severe side effects during the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Marcos-Villar
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Darwin 3, Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain. .,CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias CIBERES, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Amelia Nieto
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Darwin 3, Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain. .,CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias CIBERES, Madrid, Spain.
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239
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Forgione MO, McClure BJ, Eadie LN, Yeung DT, White DL. KMT2A rearranged acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Unravelling the genomic complexity and heterogeneity of this high-risk disease. Cancer Lett 2019; 469:410-418. [PMID: 31705930 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
KMT2A rearranged (KMT2Ar) acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a high-risk genomic subtype, with long-term survival rates of less than 60% across all age groups. These cases present a complex clinical challenge, with a high incidence in infants, high-risk clinical features and propensity for aggressive relapse. KMT2A rearrangements are highly pathogenic leukaemic drivers, reflected by the high incidence of KMT2Ar ALL in infants, who carry few leukaemia-associated cooperative mutations. However, transgenic murine models of KMT2Ar ALL typically exhibit long latency and mature or mixed phenotype, and fail to recapitulate the aggressive disease observed clinically. Next-generation sequencing has revealed that KMT2Ar ALL also occurs in adolescents and adults, and potentially cooperative genomic lesions such as PI3K-RAS pathway variants are present in KMT2Ar patients of all ages. This review addresses the aetiology of KMT2Ar ALL, with a focus on the cell of origin and mutational landscape, and how genomic profiling of KMT2Ar ALL patients in the era of next-generation sequencing demonstrates that KMT2Ar ALL is a complex heterogenous disease. Ultimately, understanding the underlying biology of KMT2Ar ALL will be important in improving long-term outcomes for these high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle O Forgione
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health & Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia.
| | - Barbara J McClure
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health & Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Laura N Eadie
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health & Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - David T Yeung
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health & Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; Department of Haematology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Deborah L White
- Cancer Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health & Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; Australian Genomics Health Alliance (AGHA), The Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic, 3052, Australia; Australian and New Zealand Children's Oncology Group (ANZCHOG), Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
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240
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Guo M, Peng Y, Gao A, Du C, Herman JG. Epigenetic heterogeneity in cancer. Biomark Res 2019; 7:23. [PMID: 31695915 PMCID: PMC6824025 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-019-0174-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity is one of the hallmarks of human cancers. Tumor genotype variations among tumors within different patients are known as interpatient heterogeneity, and variability among multiple tumors of the same type arising in the same patient is referred to as intra-patient heterogeneity. Subpopulations of cancer cells with distinct phenotypic and molecular features within a tumor are called intratumor heterogeneity (ITH). Since Nowell proposed the clonal evolution of tumor cell populations in 1976, tumor heterogeneity, especially ITH, was actively studied. Research has focused on the genetic basis of cancer, particularly mutational activation of oncogenes or inactivation of tumor-suppressor genes (TSGs). The phenomenon of ITH is commonly explained by Darwinian-like clonal evolution of a single tumor. Despite the monoclonal origin of most cancers, new clones arise during tumor progression due to the continuous acquisition of mutations. It is clear that disruption of the "epigenetic machinery" plays an important role in cancer development. Aberrant epigenetic changes occur more frequently than gene mutations in human cancers. The epigenome is at the intersection of the environment and genome. Epigenetic dysregulation occurs in the earliest stage of cancer. The current trend of epigenetic therapy is to use epigenetic drugs to reverse and/or delay future resistance to cancer therapies. A majority of cancer therapies fail to achieve durable responses, which is often attributed to ITH. Epigenetic therapy may reverse drug resistance in heterogeneous cancer. Complete understanding of genetic and epigenetic heterogeneity may assist in designing combinations of targeted therapies based on molecular information extracted from individual tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhou Guo
- 1Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, #28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China.,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, 40 Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052 China
| | - Yaojun Peng
- 1Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, #28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Aiai Gao
- 1Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, #28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Chen Du
- 1Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, #28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - James G Herman
- 3The Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
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241
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Britten O, Ragusa D, Tosi S, Kamel YM. MLL-Rearranged Acute Leukemia with t(4;11)(q21;q23)-Current Treatment Options. Is There a Role for CAR-T Cell Therapy? Cells 2019; 8:cells8111341. [PMID: 31671855 PMCID: PMC6912830 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The MLL (mixed-lineage leukemia) gene, located on chromosome 11q23, is involved in chromosomal translocations in a subtype of acute leukemia, which represents approximately 10% of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and 2.8% of acute myeloid leukemia cases. These translocations form fusions with various genes, of which more than 80 partner genes for MLL have been identified. The most recurrent fusion partner in MLL rearrangements (MLL-r) is AF4, mapping at chromosome 4q21, accounting for approximately 36% of MLL-r leukemia and particularly prevalent in MLL-r acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cases (57%). MLL-r leukemia is associated with a sudden onset, aggressive progression, and notoriously poor prognosis in comparison to non-MLL-r leukemias. Despite modern chemotherapeutic interventions and the use of hematopoietic stem cell transplantations, infants, children, and adults with MLL-r leukemia generally have poor prognosis and response to these treatments. Based on the frequency of patients who relapse, do not achieve complete remission, or have brief event-free survival, there is a clear clinical need for a new effective therapy. In this review, we outline the current therapy options for MLL-r patients and the potential application of CAR-T therapy.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Child
- Chromosomes, Human, Pair 11/genetics
- Chromosomes, Human, Pair 4/genetics
- Histone-Lysine N-Methyltransferase/genetics
- Humans
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Infant
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/genetics
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/pathology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/therapy
- Myeloid-Lymphoid Leukemia Protein/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/genetics
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/metabolism
- Translocation, Genetic/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Britten
- Division of Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK.
| | - Denise Ragusa
- Division of Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK.
| | - Sabrina Tosi
- Division of Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK.
| | - Yasser Mostafa Kamel
- ASYS Pharmaceutical Consultants-APC Inc. 2, Bedford, Nova Scotia B4A 4L2, Canada.
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242
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Barve A, Vega A, Shah PP, Ghare S, Casson L, Wunderlich M, Siskind LJ, Beverly LJ. Perturbation of Methionine/S-adenosylmethionine Metabolism as a Novel Vulnerability in MLL Rearranged Leukemia. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111322. [PMID: 31717699 PMCID: PMC6912509 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Leukemias bearing mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) rearrangement (MLL-R) resulting in expression of oncogenic MLL fusion proteins (MLL-FPs) represent an especially aggressive disease subtype with the worst overall prognoses and chemotherapeutic response. MLL-R leukemias are uniquely dependent on the epigenetic function of the H3K79 methyltransferase DOT1L, which is misdirected by MLL-FPs activating gene expression, driving transformation and leukemogenesis. Given the functional necessity of these leukemias to maintain adequate methylation potential allowing aberrant activating histone methylation to proceed, driving leukemic gene expression, we investigated perturbation of methionine (Met)/S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) metabolism as a novel therapeutic paradigm for MLL-R leukemia. Disruption of Met/SAM metabolism, by either methionine deprivation or pharmacologic inhibition of downstream metabolism, reduced overall cellular methylation potential, reduced relative cell numbers, and induced apoptosis selectively in established MLL-AF4 cell lines or MLL-AF6-expressing patient blasts but not in BCR-ABL-driven K562 cells. Global histone methylation dynamics were altered, with a profound loss of requisite H3K79 methylation, indicating inhibition of DOT1L function. Relative occupancy of the repressive H3K27me3 modification was increased at the DOT1L promoter in MLL-R cells, and DOT1L mRNA and protein expression was reduced. Finally, pharmacologic inhibition of Met/SAM metabolism significantly prolonged survival in an advanced, clinically relevant patient–derived MLL-R leukemia xenograft model, in combination with cytotoxic induction chemotherapy. Our findings provide support for further investigation into the development of highly specific allosteric inhibitors of enzymatic mediators of Met/SAM metabolism or dietary manipulation of methionine levels. Such inhibitors may lead to enhanced treatment outcomes for MLL-R leukemia, along with cytotoxic chemotherapy or DOT1L inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya Barve
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; (A.B.); (L.J.S.)
| | - Alexis Vega
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA;
| | - Parag P. Shah
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA;
| | - Smita Ghare
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; (S.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Lavona Casson
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; (S.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Mark Wunderlich
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA;
| | - Leah J. Siskind
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; (A.B.); (L.J.S.)
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA;
| | - Levi J. Beverly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; (A.B.); (L.J.S.)
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA;
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; (S.G.); (L.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +01-502-852-8968
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243
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Ribeiro ML, Reyes-Garau D, Armengol M, Fernández-Serrano M, Roué G. Recent Advances in the Targeting of Epigenetic Regulators in B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Front Genet 2019; 10:986. [PMID: 31681423 PMCID: PMC6807552 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last 10 years, major advances have been made in the diagnosis and development of selective therapies for several blood cancers, including B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL), a heterogeneous group of malignancies arising from the mature B lymphocyte compartment. However, most of these entities remain incurable and current treatments are associated with variable efficacy, several adverse events, and frequent relapses. Thus, new diagnostic paradigms and novel therapeutic options are required to improve the prognosis of patients with B-NHL. With the recent deciphering of the mutational landscapes of B-cell disorders by high-throughput sequencing, it came out that different epigenetic deregulations might drive and/or promote B lymphomagenesis. Consistently, over the last decade, numerous epigenetic drugs (or epidrugs) have emerged in the clinical management of B-NHL patients. In this review, we will present an overview of the most relevant epidrugs tested and/or used so far for the treatment of different subtypes of B-NHL, from first-generation epigenetic therapies like histone acetyl transferases (HDACs) or DNA-methyl transferases (DNMTs) inhibitors to new agents showing selectivity for proteins that are mutated, translocated, and/or overexpressed in these diseases, including EZH2, BET, and PRMT. We will dissect the mechanisms of action of these epigenetic inhibitors, as well as the molecular processes underlying their lack of efficacy in refractory patients. This review will also provide a summary of the latest strategies being employed in preclinical and clinical settings, and will point out the most promising lines of investigation in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo L. Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Department of Hematology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Molecular Biology, Sao Francisco University Medical School, Braganca Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diana Reyes-Garau
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Department of Hematology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc Armengol
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Department of Hematology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miranda Fernández-Serrano
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Department of Hematology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gaël Roué
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Department of Hematology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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244
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Gambacorta V, Gnani D, Vago L, Di Micco R. Epigenetic Therapies for Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Their Immune-Related Effects. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:207. [PMID: 31681756 PMCID: PMC6797914 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decades, our molecular understanding of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) pathogenesis dramatically increased, thanks also to the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. Many of these findings, however, have not yet translated into new prognostic markers or rationales for treatments. We now know that AML is a highly heterogeneous disease characterized by a very low mutational burden. Interestingly, the few mutations identified mainly reside in epigenetic regulators, which shape and define leukemic cell identity. In the light of these discoveries and given the increasing number of drugs targeting epigenetic regulators in clinical development and testing, great interest is emerging for the use of small molecules targeting leukemia epigenome. Together with their effects on leukemia cell-intrinsic properties, such as proliferation and survival, epigenetic drugs may affect the way leukemic cells communicate with the surrounding components of the tumor and immune microenvironment. Here, we review current knowledge on alterations in the AML epigenetic landscape and discuss the promises of epigenetic therapies for AML treatment. Finally, we summarize emerging molecular studies elucidating how epigenetic rewiring in cancer cells may as well exert immune-modulatory functions, boost the immune system, and potentially contribute to better patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Gambacorta
- Unit of Senescence in Stem Cell Aging, Differentiation and Cancer, San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Unit of Immunogenetics, Leukemia Genomics and Immunobiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Milano-Bicocca University, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Gnani
- Unit of Senescence in Stem Cell Aging, Differentiation and Cancer, San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Vago
- Unit of Immunogenetics, Leukemia Genomics and Immunobiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Unit of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Di Micco
- Unit of Senescence in Stem Cell Aging, Differentiation and Cancer, San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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245
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Michalak EM, Burr ML, Bannister AJ, Dawson MA. The roles of DNA, RNA and histone methylation in ageing and cancer. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2019; 20:573-589. [PMID: 31270442 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-019-0143-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 308] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Chromatin is a macromolecular complex predominantly comprising DNA, histone proteins and RNA. The methylation of chromatin components is highly conserved as it helps coordinate the regulation of gene expression, DNA repair and DNA replication. Dynamic changes in chromatin methylation are essential for cell-fate determination and development. Consequently, inherited or acquired mutations in the major factors that regulate the methylation of DNA, RNA and/or histones are commonly observed in developmental disorders, ageing and cancer. This has provided the impetus for the clinical development of epigenetic therapies aimed at resetting the methylation imbalance observed in these disorders. In this Review, we discuss the cellular functions of chromatin methylation and focus on how this fundamental biological process is corrupted in cancer. We discuss methylation-based cancer therapies and provide a perspective on the emerging data from early-phase clinical trial therapies that target regulators of DNA and histone methylation. We also highlight promising therapeutic strategies, including monitoring chromatin methylation for diagnostic purposes and combination epigenetic therapy strategies that may improve immune surveillance in cancer and increase the efficacy of conventional and targeted anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa M Michalak
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marian L Burr
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Andrew J Bannister
- Gurdon Institute and Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Mark A Dawson
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia.
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
- Centre for Cancer Research, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
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246
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Wingelhofer B, Somervaille TCP. Emerging Epigenetic Therapeutic Targets in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2019; 9:850. [PMID: 31552175 PMCID: PMC6743337 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a genetically heterogeneous malignancy for which treatment options have been largely limited to cytotoxic chemotherapy for the past four decades. Next-generation sequencing and other approaches have identified a spectrum of genomic and epigenomic alterations that contribute to AML initiation and maintenance. The key role of epigenetic modifiers and the reversibility of epigenetic changes have paved the way for evaluation of a new set of drug targets, and facilitated the design of novel candidate treatment strategies. More recently, seven new targeted therapies have been FDA-approved demonstrating successful implementation of the past decades' research. In this review, we will summarize the most recent advances in targeted therapeutics designed for a focused group of key epigenetic regulators in AML, outline their mechanism of action and their current status in clinical development. Furthermore, we will discuss promising new approaches for epigenetic targeted treatment in AML which are currently being tested in pre-clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tim C. P. Somervaille
- Leukaemia Biology Laboratory, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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247
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Inhibition of DOT1L and PRMT5 promote synergistic anti-tumor activity in a human MLL leukemia model induced by CRISPR/Cas9. Oncogene 2019; 38:7181-7195. [PMID: 31417187 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-0937-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
MLL rearrangements play a crucial role in leukemogenesis and comprise a poor prognosis. Therefore, new treatment strategies are urgently needed. We used the CRISPR/Cas9 system to generate an innovative leukemia model based on 100% pure MLL-AF4 or -AF9 rearranged cells derived from umbilical cord blood with indefinite growth in cell culture systems. Our model shared phenotypical, morphological and molecular features of patient cells faithfully mimicking the nature of the disease. Thus, it serves as a fundamental basis for pharmacological studies: inhibition of histone methyltransferase disruptor of telomeric silencing 1-like (DOT1L) is one specific therapeutic approach currently tested in clinical trials. However, success was limited by restricted response warranting further investigation of drug combinations. Recently, it has been shown that the inhibition of protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) exhibits anti-tumoral activity against human cell lines and in MLL mouse models. Here, we used DOT1L and PRMT5 inhibitors in our human MLL-rearranged model demonstrating dose-dependent reduced proliferation, impairment of cell cycle, increasing differentiation, apoptosis, downregulation of target genes and sensitization to chemotherapy. Strikingly, the combination of both compounds led to synergistic anti-tumoral effects. Our study provides a strong rationale for novel targeted combination therapies to improve the outcome of MLL-rearranged leukemias.
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248
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Buisman SC, de Haan G. Epigenetic Changes as a Target in Aging Haematopoietic Stem Cells and Age-Related Malignancies. Cells 2019; 8:E868. [PMID: 31405121 PMCID: PMC6721661 DOI: 10.3390/cells8080868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with multiple molecular and functional changes in haematopoietic cells. Most notably, the self-renewal and differentiation potential of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are compromised, resulting in myeloid skewing, reduced output of red blood cells and decreased generation of immune cells. These changes result in anaemia, increased susceptibility for infections and higher prevalence of haematopoietic malignancies. In HSCs, age-associated global epigenetic changes have been identified. These epigenetic alterations in aged HSCs can occur randomly (epigenetic drift) or are the result of somatic mutations in genes encoding for epigenetic proteins. Mutations in loci that encode epigenetic modifiers occur frequently in patients with haematological malignancies, but also in healthy elderly individuals at risk to develop these. It may be possible to pharmacologically intervene in the aberrant epigenetic program of derailed HSCs to enforce normal haematopoiesis or treat age-related haematopoietic diseases. Over the past decade our molecular understanding of epigenetic regulation has rapidly increased and drugs targeting epigenetic modifications are increasingly part of treatment protocols. The reversibility of epigenetic modifications renders these targets for novel therapeutics. In this review we provide an overview of epigenetic changes that occur in aging HSCs and age-related malignancies and discuss related epigenetic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja C Buisman
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Gerald de Haan
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 Groningen, The Netherlands
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249
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Chandhok NS, Prebet T. Insights into novel emerging epigenetic drugs in myeloid malignancies. Ther Adv Hematol 2019; 10:2040620719866081. [PMID: 31431820 PMCID: PMC6685116 DOI: 10.1177/2040620719866081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics has been defined as ‘a stably heritable phenotype resulting from changes in a chromosome without alterations in the DNA sequence’ and several epigenetic regulators are recurrently mutated in hematological malignancies. Epigenetic modifications include changes such as DNA methylation, histone modifications and RNA associated gene silencing. Transcriptional regulation, chromosome stability, DNA replication and DNA repair are all controlled by these modifications. Mutations in genes encoding epigenetic modifiers are a frequent occurrence in hematologic malignancies and important in both the initiation and progression of cancer. Epigenetic modifications are also frequently reversible, allowing excellent opportunities for therapeutic intervention. The goal of epigenetic therapies is to reverse epigenetic dysregulation, restore the epigenetic balance, and revert malignant cells to a more normal condition. The role of epigenetic therapies thus far is most established in hematologic malignancies, with several agents already approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. In this review, we discuss pharmacological agents targeting epigenetic regulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata S Chandhok
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Smilow Cancer Center at Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Thomas Prebet
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Smilow Cancer Center at Yale New Haven Hospital, 35 Park Street, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
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250
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamir Ahmad
- Oncologic Sciences Mitchell Cancer Institute 1660 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL, 36604, United States
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