1
|
Shi H, Tian H, Zhu T, Chen J, Jia S, Zong C, Liao Q, Ruan J, Ge S, Rao Y, Dong M, Jia R, Li Y, Xu S, Fan X. Genetic landscape and prognosis of conjunctival melanoma in Chinese patients. Br J Ophthalmol 2024; 108:1306-1312. [PMID: 38383070 PMCID: PMC11347268 DOI: 10.1136/bjo-2023-324306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Conjunctival melanoma (CoM) is a rare but highly lethal ocular melanoma and there is limited understanding of its genetic background. To update the genetic landscape of CoM, whole-exome sequencing (WES) and targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) were performed. METHODS Among 30 patients who were diagnosed and treated at Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, from January 2018 to January 2023, WES was performed on 16 patients, while targeted NGS was conducted on 14 patients. Samples were analysed to identify the mutated genes, and the potential predictive factors for progression-free survival were evaluated. Furthermore, the expression of the mutated gene was detected and validated in a 30-patient cohort by immunofluorescence. RESULTS Mutations were verified in classic genes, such as BRAF (n=9), NRAS (n=5) and NF1 (n=6). Mutated FAT4 and BRAF were associated with an increased risk for the progression of CoM. Moreover, decreased expression of FAT4 was detected in CoM patients with a worse prognosis. CONCLUSIONS The molecular landscape of CoM in Chinese patients was updated with new findings. A relatively high frequency of mutated FAT4 was determined in Chinese CoM patients, and decreased expression of FAT4 was found in patients with worse prognoses. In addition, both BRAF mutations and FAT4 mutations could serve as predictive factors for CoM patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanhan Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianyu Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Shichong Jia
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin, China
| | - Chunyan Zong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Qili Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Ruan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yamin Rao
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mei Dong
- The Core Laboratory in Medical Center of Clinical Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yimin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Shiqiong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
KAŠTELAN SNJEŽANA, PAVIČIĆ ANADIDOVIĆ, PAŠALIĆ DARIA, NIKUŠEVA-MARTIĆ TAMARA, ČANOVIĆ SAMIR, KOVAČEVIĆ PETRA, KONJEVODA SUZANA. Biological characteristics and clinical management of uveal and conjunctival melanoma. Oncol Res 2024; 32:1265-1285. [PMID: 39055896 PMCID: PMC11267116 DOI: 10.32604/or.2024.048437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Uveal and conjunctival melanomas are relatively rare tumors; nonetheless, they pose a significant risk of mortality for a large number of affected individuals. The pathogenesis of melanoma at different sites is very similar, however, the prognosis for patients with ocular melanoma remains unfavourable, primarily due to its distinctive genetic profile and tumor microenvironment. Regardless of considerable advances in understanding the genetic characteristics and biological behaviour, the treatment of uveal and conjunctival melanoma remains a formidable challenge. To enhance the prospect of success, collaborative efforts involving medical professionals and researchers in the fields of ocular biology and oncology are essential. Current data show a lack of well-designed randomized clinical trials and limited benefits in current forms of treatment for these tumors. Despite advancements in the development of effective melanoma therapeutic strategies, all current treatments for uveal melanoma (UM) and conjunctival melanoma (CoM) remain unsatisfactory, resulting in a poor long-term prognosis. Ongoing trials offer hope for positive outcomes in advanced and metastatic tumors. A more comprehensive understanding of the genetic and molecular abnormalities involved in the development and progression of ocular melanomas opens the way for the development of personalized therapy, with various potential therapeutic targets currently under consideration. Increased comprehension of the molecular pathogenesis of UM and CoM and their specificities may aid in the development of new and more effective systemic therapeutic agents, with the hope of improving the prognosis for patients with metastatic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- SNJEŽANA KAŠTELAN
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, 10000, Croatia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Clinical Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb, 10000, Croatia
| | | | - DARIA PAŠALIĆ
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, 10000, Croatia
| | - TAMARA NIKUŠEVA-MARTIĆ
- Department of Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, 10000, Croatia
| | - SAMIR ČANOVIĆ
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zadar General Hospital, Zadar, 23000, Croatia
- Department of Health Studies, University of Zadar, Zadar, 23000, Croatia
| | - PETRA KOVAČEVIĆ
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, 10000, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, 21000, Croatia
| | - SUZANA KONJEVODA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zadar General Hospital, Zadar, 23000, Croatia
- Department of Health Studies, University of Zadar, Zadar, 23000, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sen M, Demirci H, Honavar SG. Targeted therapy in ophthalmic oncology: The current status. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2024; 13:100062. [PMID: 38642707 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjo.2024.100062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
There have been rapid advancements in the field of ocular oncology for the diagnosis and management of intraocular, adnexal, and orbital tumors. Targeted therapy is in the forefront of medical research in all fields including ocular oncology. Targeted therapy include drugs that target specific genetic mutations, pathways or proteins involved in the development of cancer. In contrast to traditionally used chemotherapy, drugs used in targeted therapy are highly specific for tumor cells and preserve the function of normal cells. This review aims to familiarize ophthalmologists with the drugs that are currently approved or undergoing clinical trials for use in ocular oncology. Targeted therapy is particularly useful for locally advanced or metastatic tumors, including but not limited to eyelid and periocular basal cell carcinoma, periocular cutaneous and conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma, ocular adnexal lymphoma, conjunctival melanoma, and uveal melanoma. The results are promising with improved survival outcomes and better tolerability than chemotherapeutic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mrittika Sen
- Ocular Oncology Service, Raghunath Netralaya, Mumbai, India
| | - Hakan Demirci
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Santosh G Honavar
- Ocular Oncology Service, Centre for Sight Eye Hospital, Hyderabad, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Serbest Ceylanoglu K, Guneri Beser B, Singalavanija T, Juntipwong S, Worden FP, Demirci H. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy for Advanced Malignant Conjunctival Tumors: Systematic Review. Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg 2024; 40:18-29. [PMID: 38241616 DOI: 10.1097/iop.0000000000002488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the outcomes of targeted therapy and immunotherapy in advanced conjunctival tumors, including conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma, conjunctival melanoma, and conjunctival lymphoma. METHODS A Pubmed database systematic search was performed between January 1999 and December 2022. The literature search was limited to studies published in English. RESULTS This review included 142 patients with advanced malignant conjunctival tumors from 42 articles. In the conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma group, 2 cases of advanced conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma treated with epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors showed significant tumor size improvement after 7.5 months of follow-up. Among 7 cases treated with systemic immunotherapy, 5 cases (72%) had complete response (CR), 1 case (14%) showed partial response (PR), and 1 case (14%) had stable disease (SD) after 16 months. In the conjunctival melanoma group, among 18 cases treated with combined v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1/mitogen-activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase inhibitors, 6 (33%) had CR, 5 (28%) had PR, 2 (11%) had SD, and 5 (28%) had progressive disease after 24.8 months of follow-up. Of 44 conjunctival melanoma cases treated with immunotherapy, 12 (28%) had CR, 9 (20%) had PR, 7(16%) had SD, and 16 (36%) had progressive disease after 14.2 months. Systemic Rituximab treatment for conjunctival lymphoma cases resulted in CR in 21 patients (63%), PR in 11 patients (33%), and SD in 1 patient (3%) after 20.5 months of follow-up. Intralesional Rituximab injections in 38 conjunctival lymphoma cases showed CR in 28 patients (75%), PR in 7 patients (19%), SD in 1 patient (2%), and progressive disease in 2 patients (4%) after 20.4 months of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Despite limited clinical case reports and short-term follow-ups, targeted therapy and immunotherapy have shown promising results for advanced malignant conjunctival tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kubra Serbest Ceylanoglu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, U.S.A
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Health Sciences, Ulucanlar Eye Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkiye
| | - Buse Guneri Beser
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, U.S.A
| | - Tassapol Singalavanija
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, U.S.A
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chulabhorn Hospital, HRH Princess Chulabhorn College of Medical Science, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sarinee Juntipwong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, U.S.A
| | - Francis Paul Worden
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Roger Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, U.S.A
| | - Hakan Demirci
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fan K, Waninger JJ, Yentz S, McLean S, Demirci H. Neoadjuvant Immune Checkpoint Inhibition in Metastatic Conjunctival Melanoma. Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 39:e152-e155. [PMID: 37207285 PMCID: PMC10523967 DOI: 10.1097/iop.0000000000002407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has transformed the treatment of advanced-stage cutaneous melanoma; however, most trials did not include patients with conjunctival melanoma. Herein the authors describe a patient with recurrent conjunctival melanoma who developed locally advanced, b-raf and v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1-negative melanoma in her nasal cavity and extensive, metabolically active, bilateral lymphadenopathy in her thorax. Her nasal mass measured 4.3 × 1.7 cm and was determined to be unresectable. She was treated with 4 cycles of combination ipilimumab and nivolumab therapy followed by maintenance nivolumab. She experienced a dramatic treatment response with a reduction in the size of her nasal mass to 3.0 × 1.1 cm and a complete resolution of her adenopathy. She then underwent complete surgical resection of her residual mass (approximately 75% of her original tumor size) and remains melanoma-free at 1 year of follow-up. Given the underlying genetic similarities of conjunctival melanoma to cutaneous melanoma, providers should consider the use of neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors for patients with locally advanced or limited metastatic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Jessica J. Waninger
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - Sarah Yentz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology and Oncology Division, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Scott McLean
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Hakan Demirci
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chang E, Demirci H, Demirci FY. Genetic Aspects of Conjunctival Melanoma: A Review. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1668. [PMID: 37761808 PMCID: PMC10530751 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Conjunctival melanoma (CM) is a rare but aggressive cancer. Over the past decade, molecular studies using rapidly advancing technologies have increasingly improved our understanding of CM genetics. CMs are mainly characterized by dysregulated MAPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, driven by commonly mutated (BRAF, NRAS, NF1) or less commonly mutated (KIT, PTEN) genes. Another group of genes frequently mutated in CMs include TERT and ATRX, with known roles in telomere maintenance and chromatin remodeling/epigenetic regulation. Uveal melanoma-related genes (BAP1, SF3B1, GNAQ/11) can also be mutated in CMs, albeit infrequently. Additional CM-related mutated genes have increasingly been identified using more comprehensive genetic analyses, awaiting further confirmation in additional/larger studies. As a tumor arising in a partly sun-exposed mucosal tissue, CM exhibits a distinct genomic profile, including the frequent presence of an ultraviolet (UV) signature (and high mutational load) and also the common occurrence of large structural variations (distributed across the genome) in addition to specific gene mutations. The knowledge gained from CM genetic studies to date has led to new therapeutic avenues, including the use of targeted and/or immuno-therapies with promising outcomes in several cases. Accordingly, the implementation of tumor genetic testing into the routine clinical care of CM patients holds promise to further improve and personalize their treatments. Likewise, a growing knowledge of poor prognosis-associated genetic changes in CMs (NRAS, TERT, and uveal melanoma signature mutations and chromosome 10q deletions) may ultimately guide future strategies for prognostic testing to further improve clinical outcomes (by tailoring surveillance and considering prophylactic treatments in patients with high-risk primary tumors).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Hakan Demirci
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - F. Yesim Demirci
- Department of Human Genetics, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bresler SC, Simon C, Shields CL, McHugh JB, Stagner AM, Patel RM. Conjunctival Melanocytic Lesions. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2022; 146:632-646. [PMID: 34424954 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2021-0006-ra] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT.— Conjunctival melanocytic lesions consist of a variety of neoplastic and nonneoplastic conditions. These include benign processes such as primary intraepithelial hypermelanosis and melanocytic hyperplasia, secondary forms of intraepithelial hypermelanosis and melanocytic hyperplasia, melanocytic nevi, melanocytic proliferations with malignant potential, and melanoma. OBJECTIVE.— To provide a concise yet comprehensive resource regarding the histopathologic diagnosis of conjunctival melanocytic lesions. We aim to detail and clarify the numerous classification schemes that exist for junctional melanocytic proliferations of the conjunctiva (known as primary acquired melanosis or PAM; also termed conjunctival melanocytic intraepithelial neoplasia or C-MIN). Although not uniformly adopted, C-MIN is classified by using a numeric system based on a defined set of criteria. A less complex scheme (conjunctival melanocytic intraepithelial lesion or CMIL) has recently been proposed by the World Health Organization. Additionally, we aim to update the reader regarding molecular features and prognostic indicators. DATA SOURCES.— Peer-reviewed literature and archived cases for illustration. CONCLUSIONS.— Accurate histologic classification is essential, as PAM/C-MIN/CMILs that have a significant potential to progress to invasive melanoma may be clinically indistinguishable from low-risk lesions. Conjunctival melanoma (CM) more closely resembles cutaneous melanoma in terms of its pathogenesis and molecular features, compared to melanoma arising at other mucosal sites or to uveal melanoma. Depth of invasion and ulceration status, among other factors, have emerged as important prognostic indicators in CM. Sentinel lymph node biopsy may provide further prognostic information. Lastly, integration of pathologic and clinical findings is essential at this anatomically sensitive location to determine appropriate clinical management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott C Bresler
- From Michigan Medicine Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Bresler, Simon, McHugh, Patel)
- Michigan Medicine Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Bresler, Patel)
| | - Caroline Simon
- From Michigan Medicine Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Bresler, Simon, McHugh, Patel)
| | - Carol L Shields
- Ocular Oncology Service, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Shields)
| | - Jonathan B McHugh
- From Michigan Medicine Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Bresler, Simon, McHugh, Patel)
| | - Anna M Stagner
- The Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston (Stagner)
- The Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston (Stagner)
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (Stagner)
| | - Rajiv M Patel
- From Michigan Medicine Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Bresler, Simon, McHugh, Patel)
- Michigan Medicine Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Bresler, Patel)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nardou K, Nicolas M, Kuttler F, Cisarova K, Celik E, Quinodoz M, Riggi N, Michielin O, Rivolta C, Turcatti G, Moulin AP. Identification of New Vulnerabilities in Conjunctival Melanoma Using Image-Based High Content Drug Screening. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061575. [PMID: 35326726 PMCID: PMC8946509 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that numerous similarities exist between the genomic landscapes of both conjunctival and cutaneous melanoma. Since alterations of several components of the MAP kinases, PI3K/mTOR, and cell cycle pathways have been reported in conjunctival melanoma, we decided to assess the sensitivity of conjunctival melanoma to targeted inhibition mostly of kinase inhibitors. A high content drug screening assay based on automated fluorescence microscopy was performed in three conjunctival melanoma cell lines with different genomic backgrounds with 489 kinase inhibitors and 53 other inhibitors. IC50 and apoptosis induction were respectively assessed for 53 and 48 compounds. The genomic background influenced the response to MAK and PI3K/mTOR inhibition, more specifically cell lines with BRAF V600E mutations were more sensitive to BRAF/MEK inhibition, while CRMM2 bearing the NRASQ61L mutation was more sensitive to PI3k/mTOR inhibition. All cell lines demonstrated sensitivity to cell cycle inhibition, being more pronounced in CRMM2, especially with polo-like inhibitors. Our data also revealed new vulnerabilities to Hsp90 and Src inhibition. This study demonstrates that the genomic background partially influences the response to targeted therapy and uncovers a large panel of potential vulnerabilities in conjunctival melanoma that may expand available options for the management of this tumor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katya Nardou
- Jules-Gonin Eye Hospital, University of Lausanne, 1004 Lausanne, Switzerland; (K.N.); (M.N.)
| | - Michael Nicolas
- Jules-Gonin Eye Hospital, University of Lausanne, 1004 Lausanne, Switzerland; (K.N.); (M.N.)
| | - Fabien Kuttler
- Biomolecular Screening Facility, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; (F.K.); (G.T.)
| | - Katarina Cisarova
- Medical Genetics Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Elifnaz Celik
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (E.C.); (M.Q.); (C.R.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Quinodoz
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (E.C.); (M.Q.); (C.R.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Nicolo Riggi
- Experimental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Lausanne University, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Olivier Michielin
- Oncology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Carlo Rivolta
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (E.C.); (M.Q.); (C.R.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Gerardo Turcatti
- Biomolecular Screening Facility, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; (F.K.); (G.T.)
| | - Alexandre Pierre Moulin
- Jules-Gonin Eye Hospital, University of Lausanne, 1004 Lausanne, Switzerland; (K.N.); (M.N.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lally SE, Milman T, Orloff M, Dalvin LA, Eberhart CG, Heaphy CM, Rodriguez FJ, Lin CC, Dockery PW, Shields JA, Shields CL. Mutational Landscape and Outcomes of Conjunctival Melanoma in 101 Patients. Ophthalmology 2022; 129:679-693. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2022.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
|
10
|
Djulbegovic MB, Uversky VN, Harbour JW, Galor A, Karp CL. Structural Protein Analysis of Driver Gene Mutations in Conjunctival Melanoma. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12101625. [PMID: 34681018 PMCID: PMC8535873 DOI: 10.3390/genes12101625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been tremendous enthusiasm with respect to detailing the genetic basis of many neoplasms, including conjunctival melanoma (CM). We aim to analyze five proteins associated with CM, namely BRAF, NRAS, c-KIT, NF1, and PTEN. We evaluated each protein for its intrinsically disordered protein regions (IDPRs) and its protein-protein interactions (PPI) with the Predictor of Natural Disordered Protein Regions (PONDR®) and the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING®). Our PONDR® analysis found high levels of IDPRs in all five proteins with mutations linked to CM. The highest levels of IDPRs were in BRAF (45.95%), followed by PTEN (31.76%), NF1 (22.19%), c-KIT (21.82%), and NRAS (14.81%). Our STRING analysis found that each of these five proteins had more predicted interactions then expected (p-value < 1.0 × 10−16). Our analysis demonstrates that the mutations linked to CM likely affected IDPRs and possibly altered their highly complex PPIs. Quantifying IDPRs in BRAF, NRAS, c-KIT, NF1, and PTEN and understanding these protein regions are important processes as IDPRs can be possible drug targets for novel targeted therapies for treating CM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mak B. Djulbegovic
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.B.D.); (J.W.H.); (A.G.)
| | - Vladimir N. Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC07, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
- Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Institutskiy Pereulok, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141700 Moscow, Russia
| | - J. William Harbour
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.B.D.); (J.W.H.); (A.G.)
| | - Anat Galor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.B.D.); (J.W.H.); (A.G.)
- Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Research Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Carol L. Karp
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.B.D.); (J.W.H.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-305-326-6165
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gardrat S, Houy A, Brooks K, Cassoux N, Barnhill R, Dayot S, Bièche I, Raynal V, Baulande S, Marais R, Roman-Roman S, Stern MH, Rodrigues M. Definition of Biologically Distinct Groups of Conjunctival Melanomas According to Etiological Factors and Implications for Precision Medicine. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3836. [PMID: 34359736 PMCID: PMC8345091 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Conjunctival melanoma (ConjMel) is a potentially deadly ocular melanoma, originating from partially sunlight-exposed mucosa. We explored the mutational landscape of ConjMel and studied the correlation with etiological factors. We collected 47 primary ConjMel samples and performed next-generation sequencing of 400 genes. Hotspot mutations in BRAF, NRAS, HRAS, and KIT were observed in 16 (34%), 5 (11%), 2, and 2 cases, respectively. Patients with BRAF and CDKN2A-mutated ConjMel tended to be younger while the NF1-mutated one tended to be older. The eight tumors arising from nevi were enriched in CTNNB1 mutations (63% vs. 8%; Fisher's exact p-test = 0.001) compared to non-nevi ConjMel and five were devoid of BRAF, RAS, NF1, or KIT mutations, suggesting a specific oncogenic process in these tumors. The two KIT-mutated cases carried SF3B1 mutations and were located on sun-protected mucosa, a genotype shared with genital and anorectal mucosal melanomas. Targetable mutations were observed in ERBB2, IDH1, MET, and MAP2K1 (one occurrence each). Mutational landscape of ConjMel characterizes distinct molecular subtypes with oncogenic drivers common with mucosal and skin melanomas. CTNNB1 mutations were associated with nevus-derived ConjMel. Concomitant KIT/SF3B1 mutations in sun-protected cases suggest a common tumorigenic process with genital and anorectal mucosal melanomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Gardrat
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer and PSL Research University, Department of Biopathology, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France;
| | - Alexandre Houy
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Department of Genetics, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France; (A.H.); (S.D.); (M.-H.S.)
| | - Kelly Brooks
- Molecular Oncology Group, CRUK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; (K.B.); (R.M.)
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Nathalie Cassoux
- Department of Ocular Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Institut Curie, Université de Paris Descartes, F-75005 Paris, France;
| | - Raymond Barnhill
- Department of Biopathology, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France;
| | - Stéphane Dayot
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Department of Genetics, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France; (A.H.); (S.D.); (M.-H.S.)
| | - Ivan Bièche
- INSERM U1016, Institut Curie, Department of Genetics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, Université de Paris, F-75005 Paris, France;
| | - Virginie Raynal
- Institut Curie Genomics of Excellence (ICGex) Platform, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France; (V.R.); (S.B.)
| | - Sylvain Baulande
- Institut Curie Genomics of Excellence (ICGex) Platform, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France; (V.R.); (S.B.)
| | - Richard Marais
- Molecular Oncology Group, CRUK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; (K.B.); (R.M.)
| | - Sergio Roman-Roman
- Translational Research Department, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France;
| | - Marc-Henri Stern
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Department of Genetics, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France; (A.H.); (S.D.); (M.-H.S.)
| | - Manuel Rodrigues
- INSERM U830, DNA Repair and Uveal Melanoma (D.R.U.M.), Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Department of Genetics, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France; (A.H.); (S.D.); (M.-H.S.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Oba J, Woodman SE. The genetic and epigenetic basis of distinct melanoma types. J Dermatol 2021; 48:925-939. [PMID: 34008215 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.15957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma represents the deadliest skin cancer. Recent therapeutic developments, including targeted and immune therapies have revolutionized clinical management and improved patient outcome. This progress was achieved by rigorous molecular and functional studies followed by robust clinical trials. The identification of key genomic alterations and gene expression profiles have propelled the understanding of distinct characteristics within melanoma subtypes. The aim of this review is to summarize and highlight the main genetic and epigenetic findings of melanomas and highlight their pathological and therapeutic importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junna Oba
- Genomics Unit, Keio Cancer Center, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Scott E Woodman
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Vergara IA, Wilmott JS, Long GV, Scolyer RA. Genetic drivers of non-cutaneous melanomas: Challenges and opportunities in a heterogeneous landscape. Exp Dermatol 2021; 31:13-30. [PMID: 33455025 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Non-cutaneous melanomas most frequently involve the uveal tract and mucosal membranes, including the conjunctiva. In contrast to cutaneous melanoma, they often present at an advanced clinical stage, are associated with worse clinical outcomes and show poorer responses to immunotherapy. The mutational load within most non-cutaneous melanomas reflects their lower ultraviolet light (UV) exposure. The genetic drivers within non-cutaneous melanomas are heterogeneous. Within ocular melanomas, posterior uveal tract melanomas typically harbour one of two distinct, sets of driver mutations and alterations of clinical and biological significance. In contrast to posterior uveal tract melanomas, anterior uveal tract melanomas of the iris and conjunctival melanomas frequently carry both a higher mutational burden and specific mutations linked with UV exposure. The genetic drivers in iris melanomas more closely resemble those of the posterior uveal tract, whereas conjunctival melanomas harbour similar genetic driver mutations to cutaneous melanomas. Mucosal melanomas occur in sun-shielded sites including sinonasal and oral cavities, nasopharynx, oesophagus, genitalia, anus and rectum, and their mutational landscape is frequently associated with a dominant process of spontaneous deamination and infrequent presence of UV mutation signatures. Genetic drivers of mucosal melanomas are diverse and vary with anatomic location. Further understanding of the causes of already identified recurrent molecular events in non-cutaneous melanomas, identification of additional drivers in specific subtypes, integrative multi-omics analyses and analysis of the tumor immune microenvironment will expand knowledge in this field. Furthermore, such data will likely uncover new therapeutic strategies which will lead to improved clinical outcomes in non-cutaneous melanoma patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ismael A Vergara
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James S Wilmott
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Georgina V Long
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard A Scolyer
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and New South Wales Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Genomic and transcriptomic landscape of conjunctival melanoma. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1009201. [PMID: 33383577 PMCID: PMC7775126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Conjunctival melanoma (CJM) is a rare but potentially lethal and highly-recurrent cancer of the eye. Similar to cutaneous melanoma (CM), it originates from melanocytes. Unlike CM, however, CJM is relatively poorly characterized from a genomic point of view. To fill this knowledge gap and gain insight into the genomic nature of CJM, we performed whole-exome (WES) or whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of tumor-normal tissue pairs in 14 affected individuals, as well as RNA sequencing in a subset of 11 tumor tissues. Our results show that, similarly to CM, CJM is also characterized by a very high mutation load, composed of approximately 500 somatic mutations in exonic regions. This, as well as the presence of a UV light-induced mutational signature, are clear signs of the role of sunlight in CJM tumorigenesis. In addition, the genomic classification of CM proposed by TCGA seems to be well-applicable to CJM, with the presence of four typical subclasses defined on the basis of the most frequently mutated genes: BRAF, NF1, RAS, and triple wild-type. In line with these results, transcriptomic analyses revealed similarities with CM as well, namely the presence of a transcriptomic subtype enriched for immune genes and a subtype enriched for genes associated with keratins and epithelial functions. Finally, in seven tumors we detected somatic mutations in ACSS3, a possible new candidate oncogene. Transfected conjunctival melanoma cells overexpressing mutant ACSS3 showed higher proliferative activity, supporting the direct involvement of this gene in the tumorigenesis of CJM. Altogether, our results provide the first unbiased and complete genomic and transcriptomic classification of CJM. Conjunctival melanoma is an extremely rare form of cancer of the eye that arises from melanocytes–the cells producing the protective pigment melanin–in the outmost layer of the eye: the conjunctiva. This tissue, similarly to the skin, can also be exposed to UV light radiation from the sun. We investigated the genetic background of this rare form of cancer in samples from fourteen patients, by global DNA and RNA sequencing. Our results showed that conjunctival melanoma is genetically very similar to cutaneous melanoma. More precisely, in tumor DNA we detected signs of damage caused by UV light, as well as mutations in the genes BRAF, NF1 and NRAS/HRAS, previously described to be involved in cutaneous melanoma. Analysis of tumor gene expression also revealed similarities between these two types of cancer, some of which could be used as prognostic factors or as indicators of a patients’ response to therapy. In addition, we identified frequent somatic mutations in ACSS3, a gene not yet associated with either conjunctival or cutaneous melanoma, which represents a potential key player in oncogenesis of conjunctival melanoma.
Collapse
|
15
|
Gkiala A, Palioura S. Conjunctival Melanoma: Update on Genetics, Epigenetics and Targeted Molecular and Immune-Based Therapies. Clin Ophthalmol 2020; 14:3137-3152. [PMID: 33116365 PMCID: PMC7553763 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s271569] [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: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To present the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of conjunctival melanoma (CM) and review the existing literature on targeted molecular inhibitors as well as immune checkpoint inhibitors for the management of locally advanced and metastatic disease. Methods A comprehensive review of the literature was performed using the keywords "conjunctival melanoma", "immune checkpoint inhibitors", "BRAF inhibitors", "MEK inhibitors", "CTLA4 inhibitors", "PD1 inhibitors", "c-KIT mutations", "BRAF mutations", "NRAS mutations", "dabrafenib", "trametinib", "vemurafenib", "ipilimumab", "pembrolizumab", and "nivolumab". A total of 250 articles were reviewed and 120 were included in this report. Results Mutations of mediators in the MAP kinase pathway, such as RAS, BRAF, MEK and ERK, and mutations of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway play a major role in the pathogenesis of conjunctival melanoma. In addition, alterations of c-KIT, NF1, TERT, chemokine receptors as well as chromosomal copy number alterations and micro RNAs are thought to have a causative association with CM development. Targeted molecular inhibitors, such as BRAF and MEK inhibitors, are currently being implemented in the therapy of BRAF-mutated CM. Furthermore, immune checkpoint PD-1 and CTLA4 inhibitors with favorable clinical outcomes in the treatment of cutaneous melanoma have increased recurrence-free survival and reduced metastatic spread in CM cases. Conclusion The complex molecular mechanisms that contribute to the development of CM can be targeted both by molecular inhibitors of oncogenic pathways as well as immune checkpoint inhibitors in order to halt progression of the disease and increase survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Gkiala
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zeng Y, Hu C, Shu L, Pan Y, Zhao L, Pu X, Wu F. Clinical treatment options for early-stage and advanced conjunctival melanoma. Surv Ophthalmol 2020; 66:461-470. [PMID: 32980421 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2020.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Conjunctival melanoma (CM) is an ocular malignant tumor arising from the bulbar and palpebral conjunctiva and from the caruncle. The treatment of early-stage CM is wide local excision, followed by cryotherapy to the margins and adjuvant therapy postoperatively. Advanced CM has a poor prognosis, and there is no consensus on its management. With the development of precision medicine, the identification of genetic alterations assumes great importance. The genetic characteristics of CM, such as BRAF, NRAS, and NF1 mutations, may provide potential therapeutic targets. For locally advanced tumors and metastatic disease, targeted therapy such as BRAF inhibitors and MEK inhibitors in vitro show therapeutic benefit. Some individual case reports indicate their potential effectiveness in advanced CM. In addition, immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as programmed cell death-1 and cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 inhibitors, have been successfully used for advanced cutaneous melanoma and may be effective in CM. Limited clinical case reports found immune checkpoint inhibitors effective in advanced CM. More clinical studies are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zeng
- Department of Oncology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chunhong Hu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Long Shu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yue Pan
- Department of Oncology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lishu Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xingxiang Pu
- Department of Thoracic Medical Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/the affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fang Wu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Vanni I, Tanda ET, Dalmasso B, Pastorino L, Andreotti V, Bruno W, Boutros A, Spagnolo F, Ghiorzo P. Non-BRAF Mutant Melanoma: Molecular Features and Therapeutical Implications. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:172. [PMID: 32850962 PMCID: PMC7396525 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.00172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most aggressive tumors of the skin, and its incidence is growing worldwide. Historically considered a drug resistant disease, since 2011 the therapeutic landscape of melanoma has radically changed. Indeed, the improved knowledge of the immune system and its interactions with the tumor, and the ever more thorough molecular characterization of the disease, has allowed the development of immunotherapy on the one hand, and molecular target therapies on the other. The increased availability of more performing technologies like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and the availability of increasingly large genetic panels, allows the identification of several potential therapeutic targets. In light of this, numerous clinical and preclinical trials are ongoing, to identify new molecular targets. Here, we review the landscape of mutated non-BRAF skin melanoma, in light of recent data deriving from Whole-Exome Sequencing (WES) or Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS) studies on melanoma cohorts for which information on the mutation rate of each gene was available, for a total of 10 NGS studies and 992 samples, focusing on available, or in experimentation, targeted therapies beyond those targeting mutated BRAF. Namely, we describe 33 established and candidate driver genes altered with frequency greater than 1.5%, and the current status of targeted therapy for each gene. Only 1.1% of the samples showed no coding mutations, whereas 30% showed at least one mutation in the RAS genes (mostly NRAS) and 70% showed mutations outside of the RAS genes, suggesting potential new roads for targeted therapy. Ongoing clinical trials are available for 33.3% of the most frequently altered genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Vanni
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Bruna Dalmasso
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Lorenza Pastorino
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Virginia Andreotti
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - William Bruno
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Boutros
- Medical Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Paola Ghiorzo
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|