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Høland M, Berg KCG, Eilertsen IA, Bjerkehagen B, Kolberg M, Boye K, Lingjærde OC, Guren TK, Mandahl N, van den Berg E, Palmerini E, Smeland S, Picci P, Mertens F, Sveen A, Lothe RA. Transcriptomic subtyping of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours highlights immune signatures, genomic profiles, patient survival and therapeutic targets. EBioMedicine 2023; 97:104829. [PMID: 37837931 PMCID: PMC10585232 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (MPNST) is an aggressive orphan disease commonly affecting adolescents or young adults. Current knowledge of molecular tumour biology has been insufficient for development of rational treatment strategies. We aimed to discover molecular subtypes of potential clinical relevance. METHODS Fresh frozen samples of MPNSTs (n = 94) and benign neurofibromas (n = 28) from 115 patients in a European multicentre study were analysed by DNA copy number and/or transcriptomic profiling. Unsupervised transcriptomic subtyping was performed and the subtypes characterized for genomic aberrations, clinicopathological associations and patient survival. FINDINGS MPNSTs were classified into two transcriptomic subtypes defined primarily by immune signatures and proliferative processes. "Immune active" MPNSTs (44%) had sustained immune signals relative to neurofibromas, were more frequently low-grade (P = 0.01) and had favourable prognostic associations in a multivariable model of disease-specific survival with clinicopathological factors (hazard ratio 0.25, P = 0.003). "Immune deficient" MPNSTs were more aggressive and characterized by proliferative signatures, high genomic complexity, aberrant TP53 and PRC2 loss, as well as high relative expression of several potential actionable targets (EGFR, ERBB2, EZH2, KIF11, PLK1, RRM2). Integrated gene-wise analyses suggested a DNA copy number-basis for proliferative transcriptomic signatures in particular, and the tumour copy number burden further stratified the transcriptomic subtypes according to patient prognosis (P < 0.01). INTERPRETATION Approximately half of MPNSTs belong to an "immune deficient" transcriptomic subtype associated with an aggressive disease course, PRC2 loss and expression of several potential therapeutic targets, providing a rationale for molecularly-guided intervention trials. FUNDING Research grants from non-profit organizations, as stated in the Acknowledgements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maren Høland
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kaja C G Berg
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ina A Eilertsen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bodil Bjerkehagen
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Division of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Matthias Kolberg
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kjetil Boye
- Division of Cancer Medicine, Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ole Christian Lingjærde
- Department of Informatics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tormod K Guren
- Division of Cancer Medicine, Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nils Mandahl
- Department of Clinical Genetics, University and Regional Laboratories, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Eva van den Berg
- Department of Genetics, The University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Emanuela Palmerini
- Osteoncology, Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Innovative Therapies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sigbjørn Smeland
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Division of Cancer Medicine, Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Piero Picci
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fredrik Mertens
- Department of Clinical Genetics, University and Regional Laboratories, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anita Sveen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ragnhild A Lothe
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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Zeng TT, Deng TH, Liu Z, Zhan JR, Ma YZ, Yan YY, Sun X, Zhu YH, Li Y, Guan XY, Li L. HN1L/AP-2γ/PLK1 signaling drives tumor progression and chemotherapy resistance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:1026. [PMID: 36476988 PMCID: PMC9729194 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05478-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hematological and neurological expressed 1 like (HN1L) is a newly identified oncogene in lung cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma recently identified by our team, but its roles in the development and treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remain incompletely cataloged. Here, using ESCC tissue array and public database analysis, we demonstrated that HN1L was highly expressed in ESCC tissues, which was associated with tumor tissue invasion, poor clinical stage and short survival for ESCC patients. Loss- and gain-of-function studies in ESCC cells revealed that HN1L enhances ESCC cell metastasis and proliferation in vitro and in mice models. Moreover, high level of HN1L reduces the sensibility of ESCC cells to chemotherapeutic drugs, such as Docetaxel. Mechanism studies revealed that HN1L activated the transcription of polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) by interacting with transcription factor AP-2γ, which increased the expression of malignancy related proteins Cyclin D1 and Slug in ESCC cells. Blocking PLK1 with inhibitor BI-2356 abrogated the oncogenic function of HN1L and significantly suppressed ESCC progression by combining with chemotherapy. Therefore, this study demonstrates the vital pro-tumor role of HN1L/AP-2γ/PLK1 signaling axis in ESCC, offering a potential therapeutic strategy for ESCC patients with high HN1L by blocking PLK1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Zeng
- grid.488530.20000 0004 1803 6191State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 510060 Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian-Hao Deng
- grid.489633.3The Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 410006 Changsha, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- grid.489633.3Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 410006 Changsha, China
| | - Jia-Rong Zhan
- grid.488530.20000 0004 1803 6191State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 510060 Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Zhen Ma
- grid.488530.20000 0004 1803 6191State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 510060 Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Yan
- grid.412536.70000 0004 1791 7851Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510120 Guangzhou, China ,grid.412536.70000 0004 1791 7851Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, 528200 Foshan, China
| | - Xiao Sun
- grid.412536.70000 0004 1791 7851Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510120 Guangzhou, China ,grid.412536.70000 0004 1791 7851Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, 528200 Foshan, China
| | - Ying-Hui Zhu
- grid.488530.20000 0004 1803 6191State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 510060 Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Li
- grid.488530.20000 0004 1803 6191State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 510060 Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Guan
- grid.488530.20000 0004 1803 6191State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 510060 Guangzhou, China ,grid.440671.00000 0004 5373 5131Department of Clinical Oncology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Metastasis and Personalized Therapy, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, 518053 Shenzhen, China ,grid.194645.b0000000121742757Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lei Li
- grid.412536.70000 0004 1791 7851Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510120 Guangzhou, China ,grid.412536.70000 0004 1791 7851Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, 528200 Foshan, China ,grid.440671.00000 0004 5373 5131Department of Clinical Oncology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Metastasis and Personalized Therapy, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, 518053 Shenzhen, China
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3
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Somatilaka BN, Sadek A, McKay RM, Le LQ. Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor: models, biology, and translation. Oncogene 2022; 41:2405-2421. [PMID: 35393544 PMCID: PMC9035132 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02290-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) are aggressive, invasive cancer that comprise around 10% of all soft tissue sarcomas and develop in about 8-13% of patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1. They are associated with poor prognosis and are the leading cause of mortality in NF1 patients. MPNSTs can also develop sporadically or following exposure to radiation. There is currently no effective targeted therapy to treat MPNSTs and surgical removal remains the mainstay treatment. Unfortunately, surgery is not always possible due to the size and location of the tumor, thus, a better understanding of MPNST initiation and development is required to design novel therapeutics. Here, we provide an overview of MPNST biology and genetics, discuss findings regarding the developmental origin of MPNST, and summarize the various model systems employed to study MPNST. Finally, we discuss current management strategies for MPNST, as well as recent developments in translating basic research findings into potential therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bandarigoda N. Somatilaka
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern
Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Ali Sadek
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern
Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Renee M. McKay
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern
Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Lu Q. Le
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern
Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, 75390-9069, USA,Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas
Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, 75390-9069, USA,UTSW Comprehensive Neurofibromatosis Clinic, University of
Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, 75390-9069, USA,Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine,
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas,
75390-9069, USA,O’Donnell Brain Institute, University of Texas
Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, 75390-9069, USA
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4
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Kohtamäki L, Arjama M, Mäkelä S, Ianevski P, Välimäki K, Juteau S, Ilmonen S, Ungureanu D, Kallioniemi O, Murumägi A, Hernberg M. High-throughput ex vivo drug testing identifies potential drugs and drug combinations for NRAS-positive malignant melanoma. Transl Oncol 2022; 15:101290. [PMID: 34837846 PMCID: PMC8633005 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapy options for patients with metastatic melanoma (MM) have considerably improved over the past decade. However, many patients still need effective therapy after unsuccessful immunotherapy, especially patients with BRAF-negative tumors who lack the option of targeted treatment second line. Therefore, the elucidation of efficient and personalized therapy options for these patients is required. In this study, three patient-derived cancer cells (PDCs) were established from NRAS Q61-positive MM patients. The response of PDCs and five established melanoma cell lines (two NRAS-positive, one wild type, and two BRAF V600-positive) was evaluated toward a panel of 527 oncology drugs using high-throughput drug sensitivity and resistance testing. The PDCs and cell lines displayed strong responses to MAPK inhibitors, as expected. Additionally, the PDCs and cell lines were responsive to PI3K/mTOR, mTOR, and PLK1 inhibitors among other effective drugs currently undergoing clinical trials. Combinations with a MEK inhibitor were tested with other targeted agents to identify effective synergies. MEK inhibitor showed synergy with multikinase inhibitor ponatinib, ABL inhibitor nilotinib, PI3K/mTOR inhibitor pictilisib, and pan-RAF inhibitor LY3009120. The application of the patients' cancer cells for functional drug testing ex vivo is one step further in the process of identifying potential agents and agent combinations to personalize treatment for patients with MM. Our preliminary study results suggest that this approach has the potential for larger-scale drug testing and personalized treatment applications in our expansion trial. Our results show that drug sensitivity and resistance testing may be implementable in the treatment planning of patients with MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Kohtamäki
- Helsinki University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Helsinki and University of Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Mariliina Arjama
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), Helsinki, Finland and University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Siru Mäkelä
- Helsinki University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Helsinki and University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Philipp Ianevski
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), Helsinki, Finland and University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Katja Välimäki
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), Helsinki, Finland and University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Susanna Juteau
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Suvi Ilmonen
- Helsinki University Hospital, Department of Surgery, Helsinki and University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Daniela Ungureanu
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, Research Programs Unit, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Kallioniemi
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), Helsinki, Finland and University of Helsinki, Finland; Science for Life Laboratory (SciLifeLab), Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Astrid Murumägi
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), Helsinki, Finland and University of Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Micaela Hernberg
- Helsinki University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Helsinki and University of Helsinki, Finland
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Wang J, Pollard K, Allen AN, Tomar T, Pijnenburg D, Yao Z, Rodriguez FJ, Pratilas CA. Combined Inhibition of SHP2 and MEK Is Effective in Models of NF1-Deficient Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors. Cancer Res 2020; 80:5367-5379. [PMID: 33032988 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-1365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Loss of the RAS GTPase-activating protein (RAS-GAP) NF1 drives aberrant activation of RAS/MEK/ERK signaling and other effector pathways in the majority of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST). These dysregulated pathways represent potential targets for therapeutic intervention. However, studies of novel single agents including MEK inhibitors (MEKi) have demonstrated limited efficacy both preclinically and clinically, with little advancement in overall patient survival. By interrogation of kinome activity through an unbiased screen and targeted evaluation of the signaling response to MEK inhibition, we have identified global activation of upstream receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) that converges on activation of RAS as a mechanism to limit sensitivity to MEK inhibition. As no direct inhibitors of pan-RAS were available, an inhibitor of the protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2, a critical mediator of RAS signal transduction downstream of multiple RTK, represented an alternate strategy. The combination of MEKi plus SHP099 was superior to MEKi alone in models of NF1-MPNST, including those with acquired resistance to MEKi. Our findings have immediate translational implications and may inform future clinical trials for patients with MPNST harboring alterations in NF1. SIGNIFICANCE: Combined inhibition of MEK and SHP2 is effective in models of NF1-MPNST, both those naïve to and those resistant to MEKi, as well as in the MPNST precursor lesion plexiform neurofibroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawan Wang
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins and Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kai Pollard
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins and Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Amy N Allen
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins and Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tushar Tomar
- PamGene International BV, 's-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands
| | | | - Zhan Yao
- Program in Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Fausto J Rodriguez
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Christine A Pratilas
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins and Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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Sobczuk P, Teterycz P, Czarnecka AM, Świtaj T, Koseła-Paterczyk H, Kozak K, Falkowski S, Rutkowski P. Systemic Treatment for Advanced and Metastatic Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors-A Sarcoma Reference Center Experience. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9103157. [PMID: 33003503 PMCID: PMC7601777 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9103157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a rare type of soft tissue sarcomas. The localized disease is usually treated with surgery along with perioperative chemo- or radiotherapy. However, up to 70% of patients can develop distant metastases. The study aimed to evaluate the modes and outcomes of systemic treatment of patients with diagnosed MPNST treated in a reference center. In total, 115 patients (56 female and 59 male) diagnosed with MPNST and treated due to unresectable or metastatic disease during 2000–2019 were included in the retrospective analysis. Schemes of systemic therapy and the outcomes—progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS)—were evaluated. The median PFS in the first line was 3.9 months (95% CI 2.5–5.4). Doxorubicin-based regimens were the most commonly used in the first line (50.4% of patients). There were no significant differences in PFS between chemotherapy regimens most commonly used in the first line (p = 0.111). The median OS was 15.0 months (95% CI 11.0–19.0) and the one-year OS rate was 63%. MPNST are resistant to the majority of systemic therapies, resulting in poor survival in advanced settings. Chemotherapy with doxorubicin and ifosfamide is associated with the best response and longest PFS. Future studies and the development of novel treatment options are necessary for the improvement of treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Sobczuk
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (P.T.); (A.M.C.); (T.Ś.); (H.K.-P.); (K.K.); (S.F.); (P.R.)
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Paweł Teterycz
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (P.T.); (A.M.C.); (T.Ś.); (H.K.-P.); (K.K.); (S.F.); (P.R.)
| | - Anna M. Czarnecka
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (P.T.); (A.M.C.); (T.Ś.); (H.K.-P.); (K.K.); (S.F.); (P.R.)
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Świtaj
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (P.T.); (A.M.C.); (T.Ś.); (H.K.-P.); (K.K.); (S.F.); (P.R.)
| | - Hanna Koseła-Paterczyk
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (P.T.); (A.M.C.); (T.Ś.); (H.K.-P.); (K.K.); (S.F.); (P.R.)
| | - Katarzyna Kozak
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (P.T.); (A.M.C.); (T.Ś.); (H.K.-P.); (K.K.); (S.F.); (P.R.)
| | - Sławomir Falkowski
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (P.T.); (A.M.C.); (T.Ś.); (H.K.-P.); (K.K.); (S.F.); (P.R.)
| | - Piotr Rutkowski
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (P.T.); (A.M.C.); (T.Ś.); (H.K.-P.); (K.K.); (S.F.); (P.R.)
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Zhu Z, Li L, Xu J, Ye W, Chen B, Zeng J, Huang Z. Comprehensive analysis reveals a metabolic ten-gene signature in hepatocellular carcinoma. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9201. [PMID: 32518728 PMCID: PMC7258935 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Due to the complicated molecular and cellular heterogeneity in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the morbidity and mortality still remains high level in the world. However, the number of novel metabolic biomarkers and prognostic models could be applied to predict the survival of HCC patients is still small. In this study, we constructed a metabolic gene signature by systematically analyzing the data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC). Methods Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between tumors and paired non-tumor samples of 50 patients from TCGA dataset were calculated for subsequent analysis. Univariate cox proportional hazard regression and LASSO analysis were performed to construct a gene signature. The Kaplan–Meier analysis, time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC), Univariate and Multivariate Cox regression analysis, stratification analysis were used to assess the prognostic value of the gene signature. Furthermore, the reliability and validity were validated in four types of testing cohorts. Moreover, the diagnostic capability of the gene signature was investigated to further explore the clinical significance. Finally, Go enrichment analysis and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) have been performed to reveal the different biological processes and signaling pathways which were active in high risk or low risk group. Results Ten prognostic genes were identified and a gene signature were constructed to predict overall survival (OS). The gene signature has demonstrated an excellent ability for predicting survival prognosis. Univariate and Multivariate analysis revealed the gene signature was an independent prognostic factor. Furthermore, stratification analysis indicated the model was a clinically and statistically significant for all subgroups. Moreover, the gene signature demonstrated a high diagnostic capability in differentiating normal tissue and HCC. Finally, several significant biological processes and pathways have been identified to provide new insights into the development of HCC. Conclusion The study have identified ten metabolic prognostic genes and developed a prognostic gene signature to provide more powerful prognostic information and improve the survival prediction for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Lulu Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jiuhua Xu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Weipeng Ye
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Borong Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Junjie Zeng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhengjie Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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8
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Williams KB, Largaespada DA. New Model Systems and the Development of Targeted Therapies for the Treatment of Neurofibromatosis Type 1-Associated Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E477. [PMID: 32353955 PMCID: PMC7290716 DOI: 10.3390/genes11050477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a common genetic disorder and cancer predisposition syndrome (1:3000 births) caused by mutations in the tumor suppressor gene NF1. NF1 encodes neurofibromin, a negative regulator of the Ras signaling pathway. Individuals with NF1 often develop benign tumors of the peripheral nervous system (neurofibromas), originating from the Schwann cell linage, some of which progress further to malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs). Treatment options for neurofibromas and MPNSTs are extremely limited, relying largely on surgical resection and cytotoxic chemotherapy. Identification of novel therapeutic targets in both benign neurofibromas and MPNSTs is critical for improved patient outcomes and quality of life. Recent clinical trials conducted in patients with NF1 for the treatment of symptomatic plexiform neurofibromas using inhibitors of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) have shown very promising results. However, MEK inhibitors do not work in all patients and have significant side effects. In addition, preliminary evidence suggests single agent use of MEK inhibitors for MPNST treatment will fail. Here, we describe the preclinical efforts that led to the identification of MEK inhibitors as promising therapeutics for the treatment of NF1-related neoplasia and possible reasons they lack single agent efficacy in the treatment of MPNSTs. In addition, we describe work to find targets other than MEK for treatment of MPNST. These have come from studies of RAS biochemistry, in vitro drug screening, forward genetic screens for Schwann cell tumors, and synthetic lethal screens in cells with oncogenic RAS gene mutations. Lastly, we discuss new approaches to exploit drug screening and synthetic lethality with NF1 loss of function mutations in human Schwann cells using CRISPR/Cas9 technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle B. Williams
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - David A. Largaespada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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10
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Zhang X, Murray B, Mo G, Shern JF. The Role of Polycomb Repressive Complex in Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11030287. [PMID: 32182803 PMCID: PMC7140867 DOI: 10.3390/genes11030287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) are aggressive soft tissue sarcomas that can arise most frequently in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Despite an increasing understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie these tumors, there remains limited therapeutic options for this aggressive disease. One potentially critical finding is that a significant proportion of MPNSTs exhibit recurrent mutations in the genes EED or SUZ12, which are key components of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). Tumors harboring these genetic lesions lose the marker of transcriptional repression, trimethylation of lysine residue 27 on histone H3 (H3K27me3) and have dysregulated oncogenic signaling. Given the recurrence of PRC2 alterations, intensive research efforts are now underway with a focus on detailing the epigenetic and transcriptomic consequences of PRC2 loss as well as development of novel therapeutic strategies for targeting these lesions. In this review article, we will summarize the recent findings of PRC2 in MPNST tumorigenesis, including highlighting the functions of PRC2 in normal Schwann cell development and nerve injury repair, as well as provide commentary on the potential therapeutic vulnerabilities of a PRC2 deficient tumor cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyuan Zhang
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Tumor Evolution and Genomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (X.Z.); (B.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Béga Murray
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Tumor Evolution and Genomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (X.Z.); (B.M.); (G.M.)
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn road, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK
| | - George Mo
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Tumor Evolution and Genomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (X.Z.); (B.M.); (G.M.)
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Jack F. Shern
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Tumor Evolution and Genomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (X.Z.); (B.M.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence:
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11
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Guo J, Chaney KE, Choi K, Witek G, Patel AV, Xie H, Lin D, Whig K, Xiong Y, Schultz DC, Ratner N, Field J. Polo-like kinase 1 as a therapeutic target for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) and schwannomas. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:856-869. [PMID: 32266095 PMCID: PMC7136923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) are two dominantly inherited disorders that cause tumors in Schwann cells. NF1 patients have a high risk for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST), which are often inoperable and do not respond well to current chemotherapies or radiation. NF2 patients have a high risk for schwannomas. To identify potential therapeutic targets in these two tumors, we screened the NF1 MPNST cell line, ST88-14, and the NF2 schwannoma cell line, HEI-193, against ~2000 drugs of known mechanisms of action (including ~600 cancer relevant drugs), and also screened the cell lines against an siRNA library targeting most protein kinases. Both the drug screen and the siRNA screen identified Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) among the most potent hits in both cell lines. Since PLK1 acts on the cell cycle primarily at the G2/M transition, the same stage where aurora kinase (AURKA) acts, we explored PLK1 and its relationship to aurora kinase in MPNST. Quantitative profiling of PLK1 inhibitors against a panel of 10 neurofibromatosis cell lines found that they were potent inhibitors and, unlike AURKA inhibitors, were not more selective for NF1 over NF2 tumor cells. Furthermore, one PLK1 inhibitor, BI6727 stabilized tumor volume in MPNST xenografts. We conclude that PLK1 is a therapeutic target for MPNSTs and schwannomas, but inhibitors may have a narrow therapeutic index that limits their use as a single agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianman Guo
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Katherine E Chaney
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical CenterCincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Kwangmin Choi
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical CenterCincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Gabriela Witek
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ami V Patel
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical CenterCincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Hong Xie
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Danny Lin
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kanupriya Whig
- High Throughput Screening Core, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yao Xiong
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - David C Schultz
- High Throughput Screening Core, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical CenterCincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jeffrey Field
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA 19104, USA
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12
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Wu M, Wang Y, Yang D, Gong Y, Rao F, Liu R, Danna Y, Li J, Fan J, Chen J, Zhang W, Zhan Q. A PLK1 kinase inhibitor enhances the chemosensitivity of cisplatin by inducing pyroptosis in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma. EBioMedicine 2019; 41:244-255. [PMID: 30876762 PMCID: PMC6442225 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeting PLK1 has recently been proven as a viable therapeutic strategy against oesophageal squamous cell carcinom (ESCC). Therefore, this study aimed to explore whether the PLK1 inhibitor BI2536 is able to sensitize ESCC cells to cisplatin (DDP) and determine the underlying mechanisms. METHODS Viability, clonogenicity, cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were assessed in ESCC cells treated with BI2536 or DDP alone or in combination. Checkpoint activation was examined by immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. Xenograft model was used to assess the efficacy of the co-treatment. The expression level of GSDME in tissue samples were examined by immunohistochemistry. FINDINGS We found that the combination of BI2536 and DDP was synergistic in ESCC cells, which induced pyroptosis in ESCC cells at low doses. Mechanistic studies revealed that BI2536 significantly induced DNA damage and impaired the DNA damage repair pathway in DDP-treated cells both in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, we found that co-treatment with BI2536 and DDP induced pyroptosis in ESCC cells depending on the caspase-3/GSDME pathway. Importantly, our study found that GSDME was more highly expressed in tumour tissue than that in normal adjacent tissues, and could serve as a prognostic factor. INTERPRETATION BI2536 sensitizes ESCC cells to DDP by inhibiting the DNA damage repair pathway and inducing pyroptosis, which provides new information for understanding pyroptosis. Our study also reveals that the PLK1 inhibitor BI2536 may be an attractive candidate for ESCC targeted therapy, especially when combined with DDP for treating the GSDME overexpression subtype. FUND: National 973 Program and National Natural Science Fundation of China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjiao Wu
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Di Yang
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Ying Gong
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Feng Rao
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Yeerken Danna
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Jinting Li
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Jiawen Fan
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Weimin Zhang
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Qimin Zhan
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
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13
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Høland M, Kolberg M, Danielsen SA, Bjerkehagen B, Eilertsen IA, Hektoen M, Mandahl N, van den Berg E, Smeland S, Mertens F, Sundby Hall K, Picci P, Sveen A, Lothe RA. Inferior survival for patients with malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors defined by aberrant TP53. Mod Pathol 2018; 31:1694-1707. [PMID: 29946184 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-018-0074-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor is a rare and aggressive disease with poor treatment response, mainly affecting adolescents and young adults. Few molecular biomarkers are used in the management of this cancer type, and although TP53 is one of few recurrently mutated genes in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor, the mutation prevalence and the corresponding clinical value of the TP53 network remains unsettled. We present a multi-level molecular study focused on aberrations in the TP53 network in relation to patient outcome in a series of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors from 100 patients and 38 neurofibromas, including TP53 sequencing, high-resolution copy number analyses of TP53 and MDM2, and gene expression profiling. Point mutations in TP53 were accompanied by loss of heterozygosity, resulting in complete loss of protein function in 8.2% of the malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors. Another 5.5% had MDM2 amplification. TP53 mutation and MDM2 amplification were mutually exclusive and patients with either type of aberration in their tumor had a worse prognosis, compared to those without (hazard ratio for 5-year disease-specific survival 3.5, 95% confidence interval 1.78-6.98). Both aberrations had similar consequences on the gene expression level, as analyzed by a TP53-associated gene signature, a property also shared with the copy number aberrations and/or loss of heterozygosity at the TP53 locus, suggesting a common "TP53-mutated phenotype" in as many as 60% of the tumors. This was a poor prognostic phenotype (hazard ratio = 4.1, confidence interval:1.7-9.8), thus revealing a TP53-non-aberrant patient subgroup with a favorable outcome. The frequency of the "TP53-mutated phenotype" warrants explorative studies of stratified treatment strategies in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maren Høland
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Matthias Kolberg
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stine Aske Danielsen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bodil Bjerkehagen
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Pathology, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ina A Eilertsen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Merete Hektoen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nils Mandahl
- Department of Clinical Genetics, University and Regional Laboratories, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Eva van den Berg
- Department of Genetics, The University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sigbjørn Smeland
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Fredrik Mertens
- Department of Clinical Genetics, University and Regional Laboratories, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Kirsten Sundby Hall
- Department of Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Piero Picci
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Anita Sveen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ragnhild A Lothe
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. .,Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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14
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Neurofibromin level directs RAS pathway signaling and mediates sensitivity to targeted agents in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors. Oncotarget 2018; 9:22571-22585. [PMID: 29854299 PMCID: PMC5978249 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a type of soft-tissue sarcoma strongly associated with dysfunction in neurofibromin; an inhibitor of the RAS pathway. We performed high-throughput screening of an array of FDA approved and promising agents in clinical development both alone and in combination at physiologically achievable concentrations against a panel of established MPNST cell line models. We found that drugs targeting a variety of factors in the RAS pathway can effectively lead to cell death in vitro with considerable drug combination synergy in regimens that target MEK or mTOR. We observed that the degree of relative sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents was associated with the status of neurofibromin in these cell line models. Using a combination of agents that target MEK and mTORC1/2, we effectively silenced RAS/PI3K/MEK/mTOR signaling in vitro. Moreover, we employed RNAi against NF1 to establish that MPNST drug sensitivity is directly proportional to relative level of intracellular neurofibromin. Thus, two-drug combinations that target MEK and mTORC1/2 are most effective in halting the RAS signaling cascade, and the relative success of this and related small molecule interventions in MPNSTs may be predicated upon the molecular status of neurofibromin.
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