1
|
Nicu AT, Ionel IP, Stoica I, Burlibasa L, Jinga V. Recent Advancements in Research on DNA Methylation and Testicular Germ Cell Tumors: Unveiling the Intricate Relationship. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1041. [PMID: 38791003 PMCID: PMC11117643 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most common type of testicular cancer, with a particularly high incidence in the 15-45-year age category. Although highly treatable, resistance to therapy sometimes occurs, with devastating consequences for the patients. Additionally, the young age at diagnosis and the treatment itself pose a great threat to patients' fertility. Despite extensive research concerning genetic and environmental risk factors, little is known about TGCT etiology. However, epigenetics has recently come into the spotlight as a major factor in TGCT initiation, progression, and even resistance to treatment. As such, recent studies have been focusing on epigenetic mechanisms, which have revealed their potential in the development of novel, non-invasive biomarkers. As the most studied epigenetic mechanism, DNA methylation was the first revelation in this particular field, and it continues to be a main target of investigations as research into its association with TGCT has contributed to a better understanding of this type of cancer and constantly reveals novel aspects that can be exploited through clinical applications. In addition to biomarker development, DNA methylation holds potential for developing novel treatments based on DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTis) and may even be of interest for fertility management in cancer survivors. This manuscript is structured as a literature review, which comprehensively explores the pivotal role of DNA methylation in the pathogenesis, progression, and treatment resistance of TGCTs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alina-Teodora Nicu
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-T.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Ileana Paula Ionel
- Department of Specific Disciplines, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ileana Stoica
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-T.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Liliana Burlibasa
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-T.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Viorel Jinga
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
- The Academy of Romanian Scientists, 050044 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Boyd RI, Shokry D, Fazal Z, Rennels BC, Freemantle SJ, La Frano MR, Prins GS, Madak Erdogan Z, Irudayaraj J, Singh R, Spinella MJ. Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid Alters Pro-Cancer Phenotypes and Metabolic and Transcriptional Signatures in Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. TOXICS 2024; 12:232. [PMID: 38668455 PMCID: PMC11054796 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12040232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
The potential effects of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a recently emergent human and environmental health concern. There is a consistent link between PFAS exposure and cancer, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. Although epidemiological evidence supporting PFAS exposure and cancer in general is conflicting, there is relatively strong evidence linking PFAS and testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs). However, no mechanistic studies have been performed to date concerning PFAS and TGCTs. In this report, the effects of the legacy PFAS perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and the newer "clean energy" PFAS lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (LiTFSi, called HQ-115), on the tumorigenicity of TGCTs in mice, TGCT cell survival, and metabolite production, as well as gene regulation were investigated. In vitro, the proliferation and survival of both chemo-sensitive and -resistant TGCT cells were minimally affected by a wide range of PFOS and HQ-115 concentrations. However, both chemicals promoted the growth of TGCT cells in mouse xenografts at doses consistent with human exposure but induced minimal acute toxicity, as assessed by total body, kidney, and testis weight. PFOS, but not HQ-115, increased liver weight. Transcriptomic alterations of PFOS-exposed normal mouse testes were dominated by cancer-related pathways and gene expression alterations associated with the H3K27me3 polycomb pathway and DNA methylation, epigenetic pathways that were previously showed to be critical for the survival of TGCT cells after cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Similar patterns of PFOS-mediated gene expression occurred in PFOS-exposed cells in vitro. Metabolomic studies revealed that PFOS also altered metabolites associated with steroid biosynthesis and fatty acid metabolism in TGCT cells, consistent with the proposed ability of PFAS to mimic fatty acid-based ligands controlling lipid metabolism and the proposed role of PFAS as endocrine disrupters. Our data, is the first cell and animal based study on PFAS in TGCTs, support a pro-tumorigenic effect of PFAS on TGCT biology and suggests epigenetic, metabolic, and endocrine disruption as potential mechanisms of action that are consistent with the non-mutagenic nature of the PFAS class.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raya I. Boyd
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (R.I.B.); (D.S.); (Z.F.); (B.C.R.); (S.J.F.)
| | - Doha Shokry
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (R.I.B.); (D.S.); (Z.F.); (B.C.R.); (S.J.F.)
| | - Zeeshan Fazal
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (R.I.B.); (D.S.); (Z.F.); (B.C.R.); (S.J.F.)
| | - Brayden C. Rennels
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (R.I.B.); (D.S.); (Z.F.); (B.C.R.); (S.J.F.)
| | - Sarah J. Freemantle
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (R.I.B.); (D.S.); (Z.F.); (B.C.R.); (S.J.F.)
| | - Michael R. La Frano
- Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
| | - Gail S. Prins
- Departments of Urology, Pathology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Chicago Center for Health and Environment, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
| | - Zeynep Madak Erdogan
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Cancer Center of Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Joseph Irudayaraj
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Cancer Center of Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Ratnakar Singh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (R.I.B.); (D.S.); (Z.F.); (B.C.R.); (S.J.F.)
| | - Michael J. Spinella
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (R.I.B.); (D.S.); (Z.F.); (B.C.R.); (S.J.F.)
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Cancer Center of Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Estevão-Pereira H, Guimarães-Teixeira C, Flores BCT, Moreira-Silva F, Tavares NT, Guimarães R, Braga I, Maurício J, Henrique R, Jerónimo C, Lobo J. EHMT2/G9a and EZH2: Epimarkers in testicular germ cell tumors. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38380739 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular germ cell tumors remain the most frequent solid malignancies in young males. Despite excellent prognosis, the fact that only 60% of patients at diagnosis have elevated serum tumor markers (dependent on stage and histology) and the poor quality of life of patients who develop resistance to chemotherapy cannot be neglected. Consequently, it is mandatory to bring out novel biomarkers. OBJECTIVES The main goal was to evaluate EZH2 and EHMT2/G9a immunoexpression in a well-characterized patients' cohort of primary and metastatic testicular germ cell tumors, seeking associations with clinicopathological features and discovering differential immunoexpression patterns among specific subtypes. MATERIALS AND METHODS First, an in silico analysis of the Cancer Genome Atlas database was performed regarding EZH2 and EHMT2/G9a. Then, immunohistochemistry for EZH2 and EHMT2/G9a was carried out in a cohort of testicular germ cell tumor patients, comprising 155 chemo-naïve primary tumors and 11 chemo-treated metastases. Immunoexpression was evaluated using a digital pathology analysis software. RESULTS Higher EZH2 and EHMT2/G9a expression levels were found in non-seminoma in the in silico analysis, particularly in embryonal carcinoma. Through digital pathology analysis, non-seminomas showed significantly higher EZH2 and EHMT2/G9a immunoexpression, with embryonal carcinoma showing higher expression. Moreover, mixed tumors with 50% or more of embryonal carcinoma component revealed the highest nuclei positivity for both biomarkers. Cisplatin-exposed metastases demonstrated a higher EZH2-positive nuclei and H-score, as well as higher EHMT2/G9a-positive nuclei. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Overall, our data suggest that EZH2 and EHMT2/G9a might be associated with greater aggressiveness and, eventually, involved in the metastatic setting, paving the way for testing targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Estevão-Pereira
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Guimarães-Teixeira
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
| | - Bianca C T Flores
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
| | - Filipa Moreira-Silva
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Tiago Tavares
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Guimarães
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Isaac Braga
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Urology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Joaquina Maurício
- Department of Medical Oncology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
- Clinical Oncology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, ICBAS - School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, ICBAS - School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC Raquel Seruca), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, ICBAS - School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Urbini M, Bleve S, Schepisi G, Menna C, Gurioli G, Gianni C, De Giorgi U. Biomarkers for Salvage Therapy in Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16872. [PMID: 38069192 PMCID: PMC10706346 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316872] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The outcome of metastatic testicular germ cell tumor patients has been dramatically improved by cisplatin-based chemotherapy combinations. However, up to 30% of patients with advanced disease relapse after first-line therapy and require salvage regimens, which include treatments with conventional-dose chemotherapy or high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation. For these patients, prognosis estimation represents an essential step in the choice of medical treatment but still remains a complex challenge. The available histological, clinical, and biochemical parameters attempt to define the prognosis, but they do not reflect the tumor's molecular and pathological features and do not predict who will exhibit resistance to the several treatments. Molecular selection of patients and validated biomarkers are highly needed in order to improve current risk stratification and identify novel therapeutic approaches for patients with recurrent disease. Biomolecular biomarkers, including microRNAs, gene expression profiles, and immune-related biomarkers are currently under investigation in testicular germ cell tumors and could potentially hold a prominent place in the future treatment selection and prognostication of these tumors. The aim of this review is to summarize current scientific data regarding prognostic and predictive biomarkers for salvage therapy in testicular germ cell tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milena Urbini
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy;
| | - Sara Bleve
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (S.B.); (G.S.); (C.M.); (C.G.); (U.D.G.)
| | - Giuseppe Schepisi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (S.B.); (G.S.); (C.M.); (C.G.); (U.D.G.)
| | - Cecilia Menna
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (S.B.); (G.S.); (C.M.); (C.G.); (U.D.G.)
| | - Giorgia Gurioli
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy;
| | - Caterina Gianni
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (S.B.); (G.S.); (C.M.); (C.G.); (U.D.G.)
| | - Ugo De Giorgi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (S.B.); (G.S.); (C.M.); (C.G.); (U.D.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ditonno F, Franco A, Manfredi C, Fasanella D, Abate M, La Rocca R, Crocerossa F, Iossa V, Falagario UG, Cirillo L, Altieri VM, Di Mauro E, Crocetto F, Barone B, Cilio S, Pandolfo SD, Aveta A, Mirone V, Franzese CA, Arcaniolo D, Napolitano L. The Role of miRNA in Testicular Cancer: Current Insights and Future Perspectives. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2033. [PMID: 38004082 PMCID: PMC10672751 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59112033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Despite advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of testicular germ cell tumours (TGTCs), challenges persist in identifying reliable biomarkers for early detection and precise disease management. This narrative review addresses the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) as potential diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets in the treatment of TGCTs. Materials and Methods: Three databases (PubMed®, Web of Science™, and Scopus®) were queried for studies investigating the utility of miRNA as diagnostic tools, assessing their prognostic significance, and evaluating their potential to guide TGCT treatment. Different combinations of the following keywords were used, according to a free-text protocol: "miRNA", "non-coding RNA", "small RNA", "Testicular Cancer", "seminomatous testicular germ cell", "non-seminomatous testicular germ cell". Results: The potential of miRNAs as possible biomarkers for a non-invasive diagnosis of TGCT is appealing. Their integration into the diagnostic pathway for TGCT patients holds the potential to enhance the discriminative power of conventional serum tumour markers (STMs) and could expedite early diagnosis, given that miRNA overexpression was observed in 50% of GCNIS cases. Among miRNAs, miR-371a-3p stands out with the most promising evidence, suggesting its relevance in the primary diagnosis of TGCT, particularly when conventional STMs offer limited value. Indeed, it demonstrated high specificity (90-99%) and sensitivity (84-89%), with good positive predictive value (97.2%) and negative predictive value (82.7%). Furthermore, a direct relationship between miRNA concentration, disease burden, and treatment response exists, regardless of disease stages. The initial evidence of miRNA decrease in response to surgical treatment and systemic chemotherapy has been further supported by more recent results suggesting the potential utility of this tool not only in evaluating treatment response but also in monitoring residual disease and predicting disease relapse. Conclusions: MiRNAs could represent a reliable tool for accurate diagnosis and disease monitoring in the treatment of TGCT, providing more precise tools for early detection and treatment stratification. Nevertheless, well-designed clinical trials and comprehensive long-term data are needed to ensure their translation into effective clinical tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ditonno
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612-3833, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Franco
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612-3833, USA
- Department of Urology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, La Sapienza University, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Celeste Manfredi
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612-3833, USA
- Urology Unit, Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University, 81100 Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Fasanella
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Marco Abate
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto La Rocca
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Crocerossa
- Department of Urology, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Iossa
- Department of Andrology, "Antonio Cardarelli" Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ugo Giovanni Falagario
- Department of Urology and Organ Transplantation, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Cirillo
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Maria Altieri
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "V. Tiberio", University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
- Department of Urology, Humanitas Gavazzeni, 24125 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Ernesto Di Mauro
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Crocetto
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Barone
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Simone Cilio
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Savio Domenico Pandolfo
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Achille Aveta
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mirone
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Davide Arcaniolo
- Urology Unit, Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University, 81100 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Napolitano
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cuevas-Estrada B, Montalvo-Casimiro M, Munguia-Garza P, Ríos-Rodríguez JA, González-Barrios R, Herrera LA. Breaking the Mold: Epigenetics and Genomics Approaches Addressing Novel Treatments and Chemoresponse in TGCT Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097873. [PMID: 37175579 PMCID: PMC10178517 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ-cell tumors (TGCT) have been widely recognized for their outstanding survival rates, commonly attributed to their high sensitivity to cisplatin-based therapies. Despite this, a subset of patients develops cisplatin resistance, for whom additional therapeutic options are unsuccessful, and ~20% of them will die from disease progression at an early age. Several efforts have been made trying to find the molecular bases of cisplatin resistance. However, this phenomenon is still not fully understood, which has limited the development of efficient biomarkers and precision medicine approaches as an alternative that could improve the clinical outcomes of these patients. With the aim of providing an integrative landscape, we review the most recent genomic and epigenomic features attributed to chemoresponse in TGCT patients, highlighting how we can seek to combat cisplatin resistance through the same mechanisms by which TGCTs are particularly hypersensitive to therapy. In this regard, we explore ongoing treatment directions for resistant TGCT and novel targets to guide future clinical trials. Through our exploration of recent findings, we conclude that epidrugs are promising treatments that could help to restore cisplatin sensitivity in resistant tumors, shedding light on potential avenues for better prognosis for the benefit of the patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Berenice Cuevas-Estrada
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Michel Montalvo-Casimiro
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Paulina Munguia-Garza
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Juan Alberto Ríos-Rodríguez
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Rodrigo González-Barrios
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Luis A Herrera
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
- Tecnológico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Monterrey 64710, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Corbet AK, Bikorimana E, Boyd RI, Shokry D, Kries K, Gupta A, Paton A, Sun Z, Fazal Z, Freemantle SJ, Nelson ER, Spinella MJ, Singh R. G0S2 promotes antiestrogenic and pro-migratory responses in ER+ and ER- breast cancer cells. Transl Oncol 2023; 33:101676. [PMID: 37086619 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023] Open
Abstract
G0/G1 switch gene 2 (G0S2) is known to inhibit lipolysis by inhibiting adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL). In this report, we dissect the role of G0S2 in ER+ versus ER- breast cancer. Overexpression of G0S2 in ER- cells increased cell proliferation, while G0S2 overexpression in ER+ cells decreased cell proliferation. Transcriptome analysis revealed that G0S2 mediated distinct but overlapping transcriptional responses in ER- and ER+ cells. G0S2 reduced genes associated with an epithelial phenotype, especially in ER- cells, including CDH1, ELF3, STEAP4 and TACSTD2, suggesting promotion of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). G0S2 also repressed estrogen signaling and estrogen receptor target gene signatures, especially in ER+ cells, including TFF1 and TFF3. In addition, G0S2 overexpression increased cell migration in ER- cells and increased estrogen deprivation sensitivity in ER+ cells. Interestingly, two genes downstream of ATGL in fat utilization and very important in steroid hormone biosynthesis, HMGCS1 and HMGCS2, were downregulated in G0S2 overexpressing ER+ cells. In addition, HSD17B11, a gene that converts estradiol to its less estrogenic derivative, estrone, was highly upregulated in G0S2 overexpressing ER+ cells, suggesting G0S2 overexpression has a negative effect on estradiol production and maintenance. High expression of G0S2 and HSD17B11 was associated with improved relapse-free survival in breast cancer patients while high expression of HMGSC1 was associated with poor survival. Finally, we deleted G0S2 in breast cancer-prone MMTV-PyMT mice. Our data indicates a complex role for G0S2 in breast cancer, dependent on ER status, that may be partially mediated by suppression of the estrogen signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea K Corbet
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Emmanuel Bikorimana
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Raya I Boyd
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Doha Shokry
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Kelly Kries
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Ayush Gupta
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Anneliese Paton
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Zhengyang Sun
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Zeeshan Fazal
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Sarah J Freemantle
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Erik R Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Carle Illinois College of Medicine University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL 61801, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People Theme, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL 61801, USA; Cancer Center of Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL 61801, USA
| | - Michael J Spinella
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Carle Illinois College of Medicine University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL 61801, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People Theme, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL 61801, USA; Cancer Center of Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL 61801, USA.
| | - Ratnakar Singh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Barchi M, Guida E, Dolci S, Rossi P, Grimaldi P. Endocannabinoid system and epigenetics in spermatogenesis and testicular cancer. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 122:75-106. [PMID: 36863802 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, male germ cell development starts during fetal life and is carried out in postnatal life with the formation of sperms. Spermatogenesis is the complex and highly orderly process during which a group of germ stem cells is set at birth, starts to differentiate at puberty. It proceeds through several stages: proliferation, differentiation, and morphogenesis and it is strictly regulated by a complex network of hormonal, autocrine and paracrine factors and it is associated with a unique epigenetic program. Altered epigenetic mechanisms or inability to respond to these factors can impair the correct process of germ development leading to reproductive disorders and/or testicular germ cell cancer. Among factors regulating spermatogenesis an emerging role is played by the endocannabinoid system (ECS). ECS is a complex system comprising endogenous cannabinoids (eCBs), their synthetic and degrading enzymes, and cannabinoid receptors. Mammalian male germ cells have a complete and active ECS which is modulated during spermatogenesis and that crucially regulates processes such as germ cell differentiation and sperm functions. Recently, cannabinoid receptor signaling has been reported to induce epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone modifications and miRNA expression. Epigenetic modifications may also affect the expression and function of ECS elements, highlighting the establishment of a complex mutual interaction. Here, we describe the developmental origin and differentiation of male germ cells and testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) focusing on the interplay between ECS and epigenetic mechanisms involved in these processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Barchi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenia Guida
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Susanna Dolci
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Pellegrino Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Grimaldi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
von Eyben FE, Kristiansen K, Kapp DS, Hu R, Preda O, Nogales FF. Epigenetic Regulation of Driver Genes in Testicular Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044148. [PMID: 36835562 PMCID: PMC9966837 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044148] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In testicular germ cell tumor type II (TGCT), a seminoma subtype expresses an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) panel with four upregulated genes, OCT4/POU5F1, SOX17, KLF4, and MYC, and embryonal carcinoma (EC) has four upregulated genes, OCT4/POU5F1, SOX2, LIN28, and NANOG. The EC panel can reprogram cells into iPSC, and both iPSC and EC can differentiate into teratoma. This review summarizes the literature on epigenetic regulation of the genes. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as methylations of cytosines on the DNA string and methylations and acetylations of histone 3 lysines, regulate expression of these driver genes between the TGCT subtypes. In TGCT, the driver genes contribute to well-known clinical characteristics and the driver genes are also important for aggressive subtypes of many other malignancies. In conclusion, epigenetic regulation of the driver genes are important for TGCT and for oncology in general.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Finn E. von Eyben
- Center for Tobacco Control Research, Birkevej 17, 5230 Odense, Denmark
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-66145862
| | - Karsten Kristiansen
- Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biomedicine, August Krogh Building Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 13, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- BGI-Research, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518120, China
- Institute of Metagenomics, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao 166555, China
| | - Daniel S. Kapp
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Rong Hu
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI 53792, USA
| | - Ovidiu Preda
- Department of Pathology, San Cecilio University Hospital, 18071 Granada, CP, Spain
| | - Francisco F. Nogales
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University Granada, 18071 Granada, CP, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Nicu AT, Medar C, Chifiriuc MC, Gradisteanu Pircalabioru G, Burlibasa L. Epigenetics and Testicular Cancer: Bridging the Gap Between Fundamental Biology and Patient Care. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:861995. [PMID: 35465311 PMCID: PMC9023878 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.861995] [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: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular cancer is the most common solid tumor affecting young males. Most testicular cancers are testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs), which are divided into seminomas (SGCTs) and non-seminomatous testicular germ cell tumors (NSGCTs). During their development, primordial germ cells (PGCs) undergo epigenetic modifications and any disturbances in their pattern might lead to cancer development. The present study provides a comprehensive review of the epigenetic mechanisms–DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, bivalent marks, non-coding RNA–associated with TGCT susceptibility, initiation, progression and response to chemotherapy. Another important purpose of this review is to highlight the recent investigations regarding the identification and development of epigenetic biomarkers as powerful tools for the diagnostic, prognostic and especially for epigenetic-based therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alina-Teodora Nicu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Genetics, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cosmin Medar
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Clinical Hospital “Prof. dr Theodor Burghele”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Research Institute of University of Bucharest (ICUB), Bucharest, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
- Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Liliana Burlibasa
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Genetics, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|