1
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Nwosu GO, Ross DM, Powell JA, Pitson SM. Venetoclax therapy and emerging resistance mechanisms in acute myeloid leukaemia. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:413. [PMID: 38866760 PMCID: PMC11169396 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06810-7] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a highly aggressive and devastating malignancy of the bone marrow and blood. For decades, intensive chemotherapy has been the frontline treatment for AML but has yielded only poor patient outcomes as exemplified by a 5-year survival rate of < 30%, even in younger adults. As knowledge of the molecular underpinnings of AML has advanced, so too has the development new strategies with potential to improve the treatment of AML patients. To date the most promising of these targeted agents is the BH3-mimetic venetoclax which in combination with standard of care therapies, has manageable non-haematological toxicity and exhibits impressive efficacy. However, approximately 30% of AML patients fail to respond to venetoclax-based regimens and almost all treatment responders eventually relapse. Here, we review the emerging mechanisms of intrinsic and acquired venetoclax resistance in AML and highlight recent efforts to identify novel strategies to overcome resistance to venetoclax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gus O Nwosu
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - David M Ross
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Haematology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Haematology, Flinders University and Medical Centre, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jason A Powell
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Stuart M Pitson
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
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2
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Parks K, Aslam MF, Kumar V, Jamy O. Post-Transplant Maintenance Therapy in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2015. [PMID: 38893135 PMCID: PMC11171221 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112015] [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: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is potentially curative for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, the post-transplant relapse rate ranges from 40 to 70%, particularly with reduced intensity conditioning, and remains a major cause of treatment failure for these patients due to the limited efficacy of salvage therapy options. Strategies to mitigate this risk are urgently needed. In the past few years, the basic framework of post-transplant maintenance has been shaped by several clinical trials investigating targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and immunomodulatory therapies. Although the practice of post-transplant maintenance in AML has become more common, there remain challenges regarding the feasibility and efficacy of this strategy. Here, we review major developments in post-transplant maintenance in AML, along with ongoing and future planned studies in this area, outlining the limitations of available data and our future goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Parks
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | | | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Omer Jamy
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1720 2nd Avenue S, NP2540W, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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3
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Izutsu K, Ubukawa K, Morishita T, Onishi Y, Ishizawa K, Fujii Y, Kimura N, Yokochi M, Naoe T. Glasdegib with intensive/nonintensive chemotherapy in Japanese patients with untreated acute myeloid leukemia or high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:1250-1260. [PMID: 38327103 PMCID: PMC11006982 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16054] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Glasdegib is a potent, selective, oral inhibitor of the hedgehog signaling pathway. In this phase I study, previously untreated Japanese patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes were treated with glasdegib (100 mg once daily) combinations: low-dose cytarabine (20 mg twice daily; cohort 1, n = 6; expansion cohort, n = 15); daunorubicin and cytarabine (60 mg/m2 i.v.; cohort 2, n = 6); or azacitidine (100 mg/m2 i.v.; cohort 3, n = 6). Patients, except cohort 2, were ineligible for intensive chemotherapy. The primary end-point was dose-limiting toxicity in cohorts 1-3 and disease-modifying response in the expansion cohort. Disease-modifying response rate was tested with the null hypothesis of 6.8%, which was set based on the results from the phase II BRIGHT AML 1003 study (NCT01546038). No dose-limiting toxicities were observed in cohorts 1 or 3; one patient in cohort 2 experienced a dose-limiting toxicity of grade 3 erythroderma. The most common grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events were neutropenia and thrombocytopenia (66.7% each) in cohort 1 and thrombocytopenia (60.0%) in the expansion cohort. In the expansion cohort, the disease-modifying response rate was 46.7% (90% confidence interval, 24.4-70.0; p < 0.0001), with all patients achieving either a complete response or complete response with incomplete blood count recovery. Median overall survival was 13.9 months. In this study, the primary disease-modifying response end-point with glasdegib plus low-dose cytarabine was met. The study confirms the safety and efficacy of glasdegib plus low-dose cytarabine in Japanese patients with AML ineligible for intensive chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Izutsu
- Department of HematologyNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Kumi Ubukawa
- Department of Hematology, Nephrology and RheumatologyAkita University HospitalAkitaJapan
| | - Takanobu Morishita
- Department of HematologyJapanese Red Cross Aichi Medical Center Nagoya Daiichi HospitalNagoyaAichiJapan
| | - Yasushi Onishi
- Department of HematologyTohoku University HospitalSendaiMiyagiJapan
| | - Kenichi Ishizawa
- Department of Internal Medicine IIIYamagata University HospitalYamagataJapan
| | | | | | | | - Tomoki Naoe
- National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical CenterNagoyaJapan
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4
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Sinha S, Hembram KC, Chatterjee S. Targeting signaling pathways in cancer stem cells: A potential approach for developing novel anti-cancer therapeutics. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 385:157-209. [PMID: 38663959 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as prime players in the intricate landscape of cancer development, progression, and resistance to traditional treatments. These unique cellular subpopulations own the remarkable capability of self-renewal and differentiation, giving rise to the diverse cellular makeup of tumors and fostering their recurrence following conventional therapies. In the quest for developing more effective cancer therapeutics, the focus has now shifted toward targeting the signaling pathways that govern CSCs behavior. This chapter underscores the significance of these signaling pathways in CSC biology and their potential as pivotal targets for the development of novel chemotherapy approaches. We delve into several key signaling pathways essential for maintaining the defining characteristics of CSCs, including the Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, JAK-STAT, NF-κB pathways, among others, shedding light on their potential crosstalk. Furthermore, we highlight the latest advancements in CSC-targeted therapies, spanning from promising preclinical models to ongoing clinical trials. A comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular aspects of CSC signaling pathways and their manipulation holds the prospective to revolutionize cancer treatment paradigms. This, in turn, could lead to more efficacious and personalized therapies with the ultimate goal of eradicating CSCs and enhancing overall patient outcomes. The exploration of CSC signaling pathways represents a key step towards a brighter future in the battle against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saptarshi Sinha
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal, India
| | | | - Subhajit Chatterjee
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.
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5
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Merz AMA, Platzbecker U. Beyond the horizon: emerging therapeutic approaches in myelodysplastic neoplasms. Exp Hematol 2024; 130:104130. [PMID: 38036096 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Management of myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) requires a personalized approach, with a focus on improving quality of life and extending lifespan. The International Prognostic Scoring System-Revised and the molecular International Prognostic Scoring System are key tools for risk stratification and management of MDS. They provide a framework for predicting survival and the risk of transformation to acute myeloid leukemia. However, a major challenge in MDS management remains the limited therapeutic options available, especially after the failure of first-line therapies. In lower-risk MDS, the failure of erythropoietin-stimulating agents often leaves few alternatives, although in higher-risk MDS, the prognosis after hypomethylating agent failure is dismal. This highlights the urgent need for novel, more personalized therapeutic approaches. In this review, we discuss emerging novel therapeutic approaches in the treatment of MDS. Several new therapeutic targets are currently being evaluated, offering hope for improved management of MDS in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almuth Maria Anni Merz
- Department of Hematology, Cellular Therapy, Hemostaseology and Infectious Disease, University Hospital of Leipzig, University of Leipzig Faculty of Medicine Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Uwe Platzbecker
- Department of Hematology, Cellular Therapy, Hemostaseology and Infectious Disease, University Hospital of Leipzig, University of Leipzig Faculty of Medicine Leipzig, Germany.
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6
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Nguyen TM, Joyce P, Ross DM, Bremmell K, Jambhrunkar M, Wong SS, Prestidge CA. Combating Acute Myeloid Leukemia via Sphingosine Kinase 1 Inhibitor-Nanomedicine Combination Therapy with Cytarabine or Venetoclax. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:209. [PMID: 38399263 PMCID: PMC10893145 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020209] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
MP-A08 is a novel sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1) inhibitor with activity against acute myeloid leukemia (AML). A rationally designed liposome-based encapsulation and delivery system has been shown to overcome the physicochemical challenges of MP-A08 and enable its effective delivery for improved efficacy and survival of mice engrafted with human AML in preclinical models. To establish therapies that overcome AML's heterogeneous nature, here we explored the combination of MP-A08-loaded liposomes with both the standard chemotherapy, cytarabine, and the targeted therapy, venetoclax, against human AML cell lines. Cytarabine (over the dose range of 0.1-0.5 µM) in combination with MP-A08 liposomes showed significant synergistic effects (as confirmed by the Chou-Talalay Combination Index) against the chemosensitised human AML cell lines MV4-11 and OCI-AML3. Venetoclax (over the dose range of 0.5-250 nM) in combination with MP-A08 liposomes showed significant synergistic effects against the chemosensitised human AML cell lines, particularly in venetoclax-resistant human AML cells. This strong synergistic effect is due to multiple mechanisms of action, i.e., inhibiting MCL-1 through SPHK1 inhibition, leading to ceramide accumulation, activation of protein kinase R, ATF4 upregulation, and NOXA activation, ultimately resulting in MCL-1 degradation. These combination therapies warrant further consideration and investigation in the search for a more comprehensive treatment strategy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thao M. Nguyen
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (T.M.N.); (P.J.); (K.B.); (M.J.); (S.S.W.)
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia;
| | - Paul Joyce
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (T.M.N.); (P.J.); (K.B.); (M.J.); (S.S.W.)
| | - David M. Ross
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia;
- Department of Haematology, Flinders University and Medical Centre, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
- Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Kristen Bremmell
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (T.M.N.); (P.J.); (K.B.); (M.J.); (S.S.W.)
| | - Manasi Jambhrunkar
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (T.M.N.); (P.J.); (K.B.); (M.J.); (S.S.W.)
| | - Sook S. Wong
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (T.M.N.); (P.J.); (K.B.); (M.J.); (S.S.W.)
| | - Clive A. Prestidge
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (T.M.N.); (P.J.); (K.B.); (M.J.); (S.S.W.)
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7
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Callegari E, Tse S, Doran AC, Goosen TC, Shaik N. Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling of the Drug-Drug Interaction Between CYP3A4 Substrate Glasdegib and Moderate CYP3A4 Inducers in Lieu of a Clinical Study. J Clin Pharmacol 2024; 64:80-93. [PMID: 37731282 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.2348] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Glasdegib (DAURISMO) is a hedgehog pathway inhibitor approved for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) has been identified as a major metabolism and clearance pathway for glasdegib. The role of CYP3A4 in the clearance of glasdegib has been confirmed with clinical drug-drug interaction (DDI) studies following the coadministration of glasdegib with the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor ketoconazole and the strong inducer rifampin. To evaluate potential drug interactions with CYP3A4 modulators, the coadministration of glasdegib with a moderate CYP3A4 inducer, efavirenz, was evaluated using physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling using the Simcyp simulator. The glasdegib compound file was developed using measured physicochemical properties, data from human intravenous and oral pharmacokinetics, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion studies, and in vitro reaction phenotyping results. The modeling assumptions, model parameters, and assignments of fractional CYP3A4 metabolism were verified using results from clinical pharmacokinetics (PK) and DDI studies with ketoconazole and rifampin. The verified glasdegib and efavirenz compound files, the latter of which was available in the Simcyp simulator, were used to estimate the potential impact of efavirenz on the PK of glasdegib. PBPK modeling predicted a glasdegib area under the concentration-time curve ratio of 0.45 and maximum plasma concentration ratio of 0.75 following coadministration with efavirenz. The PBPK results, in lieu of a formal clinical study, informed the drug label, with the recommendation to double the clinical dose of glasdegib when administered in conjunction with a moderate CYP3A4 inducer, followed by a resumption of the original dose 7 days post-discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Callegari
- Medicine Design - Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics, and Metabolism, Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT, USA
| | - Susanna Tse
- Medicine Design - Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics, and Metabolism, Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT, USA
| | - Angela C Doran
- Medicine Design - Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics, and Metabolism, Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT, USA
| | - Theunis C Goosen
- Medicine Design - Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics, and Metabolism, Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT, USA
| | - Naveed Shaik
- Clinical Pharmacology and Bioanalytics, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA, USA
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8
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Hasan A, Khan NA, Uddin S, Khan AQ, Steinhoff M. Deregulated transcription factors in the emerging cancer hallmarks. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 98:31-50. [PMID: 38123029 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.12.001] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Cancer progression is a multifaceted process that entails several stages and demands the persistent expression or activation of transcription factors (TFs) to facilitate growth and survival. TFs are a cluster of proteins with DNA-binding domains that attach to promoter or enhancer DNA strands to start the transcription of genes by collaborating with RNA polymerase and other supporting proteins. They are generally acknowledged as the major regulatory molecules that coordinate biological homeostasis and the appropriate functioning of cellular components, subsequently contributing to human physiology. TFs proteins are crucial for controlling transcription during the embryonic stage and development, and the stability of different cell types depends on how they function in different cell types. The development and progression of cancer cells and tumors might be triggered by any anomaly in transcription factor function. It has long been acknowledged that cancer development is accompanied by the dysregulated activity of TF alterations which might result in faulty gene expression. Recent studies have suggested that dysregulated transcription factors play a major role in developing various human malignancies by altering and rewiring metabolic processes, modifying the immune response, and triggering oncogenic signaling cascades. This review emphasizes the interplay between TFs involved in metabolic and epigenetic reprogramming, evading immune attacks, cellular senescence, and the maintenance of cancer stemness in cancerous cells. The insights presented herein will facilitate the development of innovative therapeutic modalities to tackle the dysregulated transcription factors underlying cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adria Hasan
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Naushad Ahmad Khan
- Department of Surgery, Trauma and Vascular Surgery Clinical Research, Hamad General Hospital, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Biosciences, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India; Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Abdul Q Khan
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar.
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha 24144, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
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9
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Krenn PW, Aberger F. Targeting cancer hallmark vulnerabilities in hematologic malignancies by interfering with Hedgehog/GLI signaling. Blood 2023; 142:1945-1959. [PMID: 37595276 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021014761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the genetic alterations, disrupted signaling pathways, and hijacked mechanisms in oncogene-transformed hematologic cells is critical for the development of effective and durable treatment strategies against liquid tumors. In this review, we focus on the specific involvement of the Hedgehog (HH)/GLI pathway in the manifestation and initiation of various cancer features in hematologic malignancies, including multiple myeloma, T- and B-cell lymphomas, and lymphoid and myeloid leukemias. By reviewing canonical and noncanonical, Smoothened-independent HH/GLI signaling and summarizing preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies in hematologic malignancies, we elucidate common molecular mechanisms by which HH/GLI signaling controls key oncogenic processes and cancer hallmarks such as cell proliferation, cancer stem cell fate, genomic instability, microenvironment remodeling, and cell survival. We also summarize current clinical trials with HH inhibitors and discuss successes and challenges, as well as opportunities for future combined therapeutic approaches. By providing a bird's eye view of the role of HH/GLI signaling in liquid tumors, we suggest that a comprehensive understanding of the general oncogenic effects of HH/GLI signaling on the formation of cancer hallmarks is essential to identify critical vulnerabilities within tumor cells and their supporting remodeled microenvironment, paving the way for the development of novel and efficient personalized combination therapies for hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter W Krenn
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fritz Aberger
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
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10
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Hruba L, Das V, Hajduch M, Dzubak P. Nucleoside-based anticancer drugs: Mechanism of action and drug resistance. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115741. [PMID: 37567317 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115741] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Nucleoside-based drugs, recognized as purine or pyrimidine analogs, have been potent therapeutic agents since their introduction in 1950, deployed widely in the treatment of diverse diseases such as cancers, myelodysplastic syndromes, multiple sclerosis, and viral infections. These antimetabolites establish complex interactions with cellular molecular constituents, primarily via activation of phosphorylation cascades leading to consequential interactions with nucleic acids. However, the therapeutic efficacy of these agents is frequently compromised by the development of drug resistance, a continually emerging challenge in their clinical application. This comprehensive review explores the mechanisms of resistance to nucleoside-based drugs, encompassing a wide spectrum of phenomena from alterations in membrane transporters and activating kinases to changes in drug elimination strategies and DNA damage repair mechanisms. The critical analysis in this review underlines complex interactions of drug and cell and also guides towards novel therapeutic strategies to counteract resistance. The development of targeted therapies, novel nucleoside analogs, and synergistic drug combinations are promising approaches to restore tumor sensitivity and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Hruba
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Viswanath Das
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Marian Hajduch
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic; Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, Olomouc 779 00, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Dzubak
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic; Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, Olomouc 779 00, Czech Republic.
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11
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Bruzzese A, Martino EA, Labanca C, Mendicino F, Lucia E, Olivito V, Fimognari F, Neri A, Morabito F, Vigna E, Gentile M. Glasdegib for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:1537-1543. [PMID: 37392098 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2232301] [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: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Over the last few years, substantial progress has been made in the management of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The first changes in the management of AML date back to last 2000s with the advent of hypometilant agents, later with Bcl2 inhibitor venetoclax, and Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) inhibitors (midostaurin and gilteritinib), and more recently with IDH1/2 inhibitors (ivosidenib and enasidenib) and the hedgehog (HH) pathway inhibitor glasdegib. AREAS COVERED Glasdegid, formerly PF-04449913 or PF-913, acts as a smoothened (SMO) inhibitor and has been recently approved in combination with low-dose cytarabine (LDAC) by FDA and EMA for the treatment of naïve AML patients unfit for intensive chemotherapy.Several studies have explored the efficacy and safety of glasdegib, as a single agent or in combination with other drugs, in both the setting of relapsed/refractory and naïve AML patients, confirming its efficacy in controlling disease and safety profile. EXPERT OPINION All these trials suggest that glasdegib seems to be an ideal partner for both classic chemotherapy and biological treatments (such as therapy with FLT3 inhibitors). Further studies are needed to better understand which patients are more likely to respond to glasdegib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Bruzzese
- Department of Onco-Hematology, Hematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Annunziata, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Enrica Antonia Martino
- Department of Onco-Hematology, Hematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Annunziata, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Caterina Labanca
- Department of Onco-Hematology, Hematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Annunziata, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Francesco Mendicino
- Department of Onco-Hematology, Hematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Annunziata, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Eugenio Lucia
- Department of Onco-Hematology, Hematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Annunziata, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Virginia Olivito
- Department of Onco-Hematology, Hematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Annunziata, Cosenza, Italy
| | | | - Antonino Neri
- Scientific Directorate IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, EmiliaRomagna, Italy
| | | | - Ernesto Vigna
- Department of Onco-Hematology, Hematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Annunziata, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Massimo Gentile
- Department of Onco-Hematology, Hematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Annunziata, Cosenza, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Science, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
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12
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Understanding the Roles of the Hedgehog Signaling Pathway during T-Cell Lymphopoiesis and in T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL). Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032962. [PMID: 36769284 PMCID: PMC9917970 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032962] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (HH) signaling network is one of the main regulators of invertebrate and vertebrate embryonic development. Along with other networks, such as NOTCH and WNT, HH signaling specifies both the early patterning and the polarity events as well as the subsequent organ formation via the temporal and spatial regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation. However, aberrant activation of HH signaling has been identified in a broad range of malignant disorders, where it positively influences proliferation, survival, and therapeutic resistance of neoplastic cells. Inhibitors targeting the HH pathway have been tested in preclinical cancer models. The HH pathway is also overactive in other blood malignancies, including T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). This review is intended to summarize our knowledge of the biological roles and pathophysiology of the HH pathway during normal T-cell lymphopoiesis and in T-ALL. In addition, we will discuss potential therapeutic strategies that might expand the clinical usefulness of drugs targeting the HH pathway in T-ALL.
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13
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Al-Kaabneh B, Frisch B, Aljitawi OS. The Potential Role of 3D In Vitro Acute Myeloid Leukemia Culture Models in Understanding Drug Resistance in Leukemia Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5252. [PMID: 36358676 PMCID: PMC9656790 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The complexity of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment makes studying hematological malignancies in vitro a challenging task. Three-dimensional cell cultures are being actively studied, particularly due to their ability to serve as a bridge of the gap between 2D cultures and animal models. The role of 3D in vitro models in studying the mechanisms of chemotherapeutic resistance and leukemia stem cells (LSCs) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is not well-reviewed. We present an overview of 3D cell models used for studying AML, emphasizing the recent advancements in microenvironment modeling, chemotherapy testing, and resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basil Al-Kaabneh
- Hematology/Oncology Division, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Benjamin Frisch
- Departments of Pathology and Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Omar S. Aljitawi
- Hematology/Oncology Division, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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14
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Liu G, Chen T, Zhang X, Ma X, Shi H. Small molecule inhibitors targeting the cancers. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e181. [PMID: 36254250 PMCID: PMC9560750 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Compared with traditional therapies, targeted therapy has merits in selectivity, efficacy, and tolerability. Small molecule inhibitors are one of the primary targeted therapies for cancer. Due to their advantages in a wide range of targets, convenient medication, and the ability to penetrate into the central nervous system, many efforts have been devoted to developing more small molecule inhibitors. To date, 88 small molecule inhibitors have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration to treat cancers. Despite remarkable progress, small molecule inhibitors in cancer treatment still face many obstacles, such as low response rate, short duration of response, toxicity, biomarkers, and resistance. To better promote the development of small molecule inhibitors targeting cancers, we comprehensively reviewed small molecule inhibitors involved in all the approved agents and pivotal drug candidates in clinical trials arranged by the signaling pathways and the classification of small molecule inhibitors. We discussed lessons learned from the development of these agents, the proper strategies to overcome resistance arising from different mechanisms, and combination therapies concerned with small molecule inhibitors. Through our review, we hoped to provide insights and perspectives for the research and development of small molecule inhibitors in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui‐Hong Liu
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of CardiologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangLiaoningChina
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Xue‐Lei Ma
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Hua‐Shan Shi
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
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15
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Exosomal miR92a Promotes Cytarabine Resistance in Myelodysplastic Syndromes by Activating Wnt/β-catenin Signal Pathway. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12101448. [PMID: 36291656 PMCID: PMC9599242 DOI: 10.3390/biom12101448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytarabine (Ara-C) has been one of the frontline therapies for clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders, such as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), but Ara-C resistance often occurs and leads to treatment failure. Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) as small noncoding RNA that play important roles in post-transcriptional gene regulation, can be delivered into recipient cells by exosomes and regulate target genes' expression. miR92a has been reported to be dysregulated in many cancers, including MDS and AML. However, the effects of exosomal miR92a in hematologic malignancies have not been fully investigated. In this study, qualitative analysis showed the significantly enhanced expression of exosomal miR92a in MDS/AML plasma. Subsequent functional assays indicated that exosomal miR92a can be transported and downregulate PTEN in recipient cells and, furthermore, activate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and interfere with the Ara-C resistance of receipt MDS/AML cells in vitro and in vivo. Altogether, our findings offer novel insights into plasma exosomal miR92a participating in Ara-C resistance in MDS/AML and we propose miR92a as a potential therapeutic target for MDS/AML.
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16
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Manni W, Min W. Signaling pathways in the regulation of cancer stem cells and associated targeted therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e176. [PMID: 36226253 PMCID: PMC9534377 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are defined as a subpopulation of malignant tumor cells with selective capacities for tumor initiation, self-renewal, metastasis, and unlimited growth into bulks, which are believed as a major cause of progressive tumor phenotypes, including recurrence, metastasis, and treatment failure. A number of signaling pathways are involved in the maintenance of stem cell properties and survival of CSCs, including well-established intrinsic pathways, such as the Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog signaling, and extrinsic pathways, such as the vascular microenvironment and tumor-associated immune cells. There is also intricate crosstalk between these signal cascades and other oncogenic pathways. Thus, targeting pathway molecules that regulate CSCs provides a new option for the treatment of therapy-resistant or -refractory tumors. These treatments include small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies that target key signaling in CSCs, as well as CSC-directed immunotherapies that harness the immune systems to target CSCs. This review aims to provide an overview of the regulating networks and their immune interactions involved in CSC development. We also address the update on the development of CSC-directed therapeutics, with a special focus on those with application approval or under clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Manni
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP. R. China
| | - Wu Min
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health SciencesUniversity of North DakotaGrand ForksNorth DakotaUSA
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17
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Jiang J. Hedgehog signaling mechanism and role in cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 85:107-122. [PMID: 33836254 PMCID: PMC8492792 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cell-cell communication through evolutionarily conserved signaling pathways governs embryonic development and adult tissue homeostasis. Deregulation of these signaling pathways has been implicated in a wide range of human diseases including cancer. One such pathway is the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway, which was originally discovered in Drosophila and later found to play a fundamental role in human development and diseases. Abnormal Hh pathway activation is a major driver of basal cell carcinomas (BCC) and medulloblastoma. Hh exerts it biological influence through a largely conserved signal transduction pathway from the activation of the GPCR family transmembrane protein Smoothened (Smo) to the conversion of latent Zn-finger transcription factors Gli/Ci proteins from their repressor (GliR/CiR) to activator (GliA/CiA) forms. Studies from model organisms and human patients have provided deep insight into the Hh signal transduction mechanisms, revealed roles of Hh signaling in a wide range of human cancers, and suggested multiple strategies for targeting this pathway in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Jiang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
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18
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Lemos T, Merchant A. The hedgehog pathway in hematopoiesis and hematological malignancy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:960943. [PMID: 36091167 PMCID: PMC9453489 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.960943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (HH) pathway is a promising therapeutic target in hematological malignancies. Activation of the pathway has been tied to greater chances of relapse and poorer outcomes in several hematological malignancies and inhibiting the pathway has improved outcomes in several clinical trials. One inhibitor targeting the pathway via the protein Smoothened (SMO), glasdegib, has been approved by the FDA for use with a low dose cytarabine regiment in some high-risk acute myeloid leukemia patients (AML). If further clinical trials in glasdegib produce positive results, there may soon be more general use of HH inhibitors in the treatment of hematological malignancies.While there is clinical evidence that HH inhibitors may improve outcomes and help prevent relapse, a full understanding of any mechanism of action remains elusive. The bulk of AML cells exhibit primary resistance to SMO inhibition (SMOi), leading some to hypothesize that that clinical activity of SMOi is mediated through modulation of self-renewal and chemoresistance in rare cancer stem cells (CSC). Direct evidence that CSC are being targeted in patients by SMOi has proven difficult to produce, and here we present data to support the alternative hypothesis that suggests the clinical benefit observed with SMOi is being mediated through stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment.This paper's aims are to review the history of the HH pathway in hematopoiesis and hematological malignancy, to highlight the pre-clinical and clinical evidence for its use a therapeutic target, and to explore the evidence for stromal activation of the pathway acting to protect CSCs and enable self-renewal of AML and other diseases. Finally, we highlight gaps in the current data and present hypotheses for new research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akil Merchant
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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19
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Tesanovic S, Krenn PW, Aberger F. Hedgehog/GLI signaling in hematopoietic development and acute myeloid leukemia—From bench to bedside. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:944760. [PMID: 35990601 PMCID: PMC9388743 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.944760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
While the underlying genetic alterations and biology of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), an aggressive hematologic malignancy characterized by clonal expansion of undifferentiated myeloid cells, have been gradually unraveled in the last decades, translation into clinical treatment approaches has only just begun. High relapse rates remain a major challenge in AML therapy and are to a large extent attributed to the persistence of treatment-resistant leukemic stem cells (LSCs). The Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway is crucial for the development and progression of multiple cancer stem cell driven tumors, including AML, and has therefore gained interest as a therapeutic target. In this review, we give an overview of the major components of the HH signaling pathway, dissect HH functions in normal and malignant hematopoiesis, and specifically elaborate on the role of HH signaling in AML pathogenesis and resistance. Furthermore, we summarize preclinical and clinical HH inhibitor studies, leading to the approval of the HH pathway inhibitor glasdegib, in combination with low-dose cytarabine, for AML treatment.
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20
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Iyer SG, Stanchina M, Bradley TJ, Watts J. Profile of Glasdegib for the Treatment of Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): Evidence to Date. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 14:2267-2272. [PMID: 35937938 PMCID: PMC9354757 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s195723] [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: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematologic malignancy primarily affecting older adults. Historically, the highest rates of response have been achieved with intensive induction chemotherapy; however, a significant portion of older or unfit adults with AML are unable to tolerate intensive therapy or have chemotherapy-resistant disease, creating a large need for active and less intensive treatment strategies. Glasdegib, an oral inhibitor of the transmembrane protein Smoothened (SMO) involved in the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway, was approved in 2018 for older or unfit adults with AML and attained a role in clinical practice after showing an overall survival (OS) advantage when combined with the established agent low-dose cytarabine (LDAC). Since that time, however, several other highly active lower intensity therapies such as venetoclax plus a hypomethylating agent (HMA) have garnered a dominant role in the treatment of this patient population. In this review, we summarize the role of glasdegib in the current treatment landscape of newly diagnosed AML and discuss ongoing investigations into its role in novel combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Girish Iyer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Michele Stanchina
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Terrence J Bradley
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Correspondence: Terrence J Bradley, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 90 SW 3rd Street #2210, Miami, FL, 33130, USA, Tel +1 3052439290, Fax +1 305-243-9161, Email
| | - Justin Watts
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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21
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Pezzotta A, Gentile I, Genovese D, Totaro MG, Battaglia C, Leung AYH, Fumagalli M, Parma M, Cazzaniga G, Fazio G, Alcalay M, Marozzi A, Pistocchi A. HDAC6 inhibition decreases leukemic stem cell expansion driven by Hedgehog hyperactivation by restoring primary ciliogenesis. Pharmacol Res 2022; 183:106378. [PMID: 35918044 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Hh pathway promotes cell proliferation and multi-drug resistance (MDR) in several cancers, including Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Notably, only one Hh inhibitor, glasdegib, has been approved for AML treatment, and most patients eventually relapse, highlighing the urgent need ti discover new therapeutic targets. Hh signal is transduced through the membrane of the primary cilium, a structure expressed by non-proliferating mammalian cells, whose stabilization depends on the activity of HDAC6. Here we describe a positive correlation between Hh, HDAC6, and MDR genes in a cohort of adult AML patients, human leukemic cell lines, and a zebrafish model of Hh overexpression. The hyper-activation of Hh or HDAC6 in zebrafish drove the increased proliferation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). Interestingly, this phenotype was rescued by inhibition of HDAC6 but not of Hh. Also, in human leukemic cell lines, a reduction in vitality was obtained through HDAC6, but not Hh inhibition. Our data showed the presence of a cross-talk between Hh and HDAC6 mediated by stabilization of the primary cilium, which we detect for the first time in zebrafish HSPCs. Inhibition of HDAC6 activity alone or in combination therapy with the chemotherapeutic agent cytarabine, efficiently rescued the hematopoietic phenotype. Our results open the possibility to introduce HDAC6 as therapeutic target to reduce proliferation of leukemic blasts in AML patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Pezzotta
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Ilaria Gentile
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Genovese
- Dipartimento di Oncologia Sperimentale, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Battaglia
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Monica Fumagalli
- Hospital San Gerardo, Clinica Ematologica e Centro Trapianti di Midollo Osseo, Monza, Italy
| | - Matteo Parma
- Hospital San Gerardo, Clinica Ematologica e Centro Trapianti di Midollo Osseo, Monza, Italy
| | - Gianni Cazzaniga
- Centro Ricerca Tettamanti, Clinica Pediatrica Università di Milano-Bicocca, Centro Maria Letizia Verga, Monza, Italy
| | - Grazia Fazio
- Centro Ricerca Tettamanti, Clinica Pediatrica Università di Milano-Bicocca, Centro Maria Letizia Verga, Monza, Italy
| | - Myriam Alcalay
- Dipartimento di Oncologia Sperimentale, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia IRCCS, Milano, Italy; Dipartimento di Oncologia ed Emato-Oncologia, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Marozzi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Pistocchi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
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22
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Fan T, Kuang G, Long R, Han Y, Wang J. The overall process of metastasis: From initiation to a new tumor. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188750. [PMID: 35728735 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188750] [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: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis-a process that involves the migration of cells from the primary site to distant organs-is the leading cause of cancer-associated death. Improved technology and in-depth research on tumors have furthered our understanding of the various mechanisms involved in tumor metastasis. Metastasis is initiated by cancer cells of a specific phenotype, which migrate with the assistance of extracellular components and metastatic traits conferred via epigenetic regulation while modifying their behavior in response to the complex and dynamic human internal environment. In this review, we have summarized the general steps involved in tumor metastasis and their characteristics, incorporating recent studies and topical issues, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer stem cells, neutrophil extracellular traps, pre-metastatic niche, extracellular vesicles, and dormancy. Several feasible treatment directions have also been summarized. In addition, the correlation between cancer metastasis and lifestyle factors, such as obesity and circadian rhythm, has been illustrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyue Fan
- Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Guicheng Kuang
- Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Runmin Long
- Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Yunwei Han
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China.
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23
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Altman RA, Brai A, Golden J, La Regina G, Li Z, Moore TW, Pomerantz WCK, Rajapaksa NS, Adams AM. An Innovation 10 Years in the Making: The Stories in the Pages of ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:540-545. [PMID: 35450346 PMCID: PMC9014514 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.1c00623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Innovation in medicinal chemistry has been at the heart of ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters since the journal's founding 10 years ago. In his inaugural editorial, Editor-in-Chief Dennis Liotta laid out a vision for the journal to become the "premier international journal for rapid communication of cutting-edge studies," and, after 10 years, it has become exactly that. The great hope of drug discovery scientists is that their innovations will lead to new therapeutics to treat unmet medical needs. In the spirit of innovation and in celebration of the recent 10th anniversary of ACS Med. Chem. Lett., we highlight five therapeutics that were first reported or first comprehensively characterized within ACS Med. Chem. Lett.. This overview also serves to introduce the expansion of the scope of the Innovations article type to include Topical Innovations. With this extension, the journal hopes to provide a forum to showcase concise (rather than comprehensive) reviews of topics that are both timely and of great interest to the medicinal chemistry community. Moreover, these articles will emphasize the next steps to move the field toward new areas of interest in medicinal chemistry. Appropriate topics might include case studies of clinical candidates or approved drugs, new assay technologies in drug discovery, novel target classes, and innovative new approaches towards modulation of human physiology. Since its founding 10 years ago, ACS Med. Chem. Lett. has established itself as a venue for the rapid communication of studies in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. There have been several drugs and clinical candidates that were first reported or first comprehensively characterized in ACS Med. Chem. Lett. In celebration of the 10th anniversary of ACS Med. Chem. Lett. this Topical Innovations article highlights five of these compounds: Ivosidenib, Siponimod, Glasdegib, Parsaclisib, and Dabrafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan A. Altman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology and Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47906, United States
| | - Annalaura Brai
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Jennifer Golden
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin─Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53705, United States
| | - Giuseppe La Regina
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Zhengqiu Li
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Terry W. Moore
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S. Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - William C. K. Pomerantz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Naomi S. Rajapaksa
- Medicinal Chemistry, Interline Therapeutics, 620 Utah Ave, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Ashley M. Adams
- Medicine Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 South Collegeville Road, Collegeville, Pennsylvania 19426, United States
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24
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Infectious complications of targeted drugs and biotherapies in acute leukemia. Clinical practice guidelines by the European Conference on Infections in Leukemia (ECIL), a joint venture of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT), the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), the International Immunocompromised Host Society (ICHS) and the European Leukemia Net (ELN). Leukemia 2022; 36:1215-1226. [PMID: 35368047 PMCID: PMC9061290 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01556-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe 9th web-based European Conference on Infections in Leukemia (ECIL-9), held September 16-17, 2021, reviewed the risk of infections and febrile neutropenia associated with more recently approved immunotherapeutic agents and molecular targeted drugs for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Novel antibody based treatment approaches (inotuzumab ozogamicin, gemtuzumab ozogamicin, flotetuzumab), isocitrate dehydrogenases inhibitors (ivosidenib, enasidenib, olutasidenib), FLT3 kinase inhibitors (gilteritinib, midostaurin, quizartinib), a hedgehog inhibitor (glasdegib) as well as a BCL2 inhibitor (venetoclax) were reviewed with respect to their mode of action, their immunosuppressive potential, their current approval and the infectious complications and febrile neutropenia reported from clinical studies. Evidence-based recommendations for prevention and management of infectious complications and specific alerts regarding the potential for drug-drug interactions were developed and discussed in a plenary session with the panel of experts until consensus was reached. The set of recommendations was posted on the ECIL website for a month for comments from members of EBMT, EORTC, ICHS and ELN before final approval by the panelists. While a majority of these agents are not associated with a significantly increased risk when used as monotherapy, caution is required with combination therapy such as venetoclax plus hypomethylating agents, gemtuzumab ozogamicin plus cytotoxic drugs or midostaurin added to conventional AML chemotherapy.
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25
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Update on glasdegib in acute myeloid leukemia - broadening horizons of Hedgehog pathway inhibitors. ACTA PHARMACEUTICA (ZAGREB, CROATIA) 2022; 72:9-34. [PMID: 36651529 DOI: 10.2478/acph-2022-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Numerous new emerging therapies, including oral targeted chemotherapies, have recently entered the therapeutic arsenal against acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The significant shift toward the use of these novel therapeutics, administered either alone or in combination with intensive or low-intensity chemotherapy, changes the prospects for the control of this disease, especially for elderly patients. Glasdegib, an oral Hedgehog pathway inhibitor, showed satisfactory response rates associated with moderate toxicity and less early mortality than standard induction regimens in this population. It was approved in November 2018 by the FDA and in June 2020 by the EMA for use in combination with low-dose cytarabine as a treatment of newly-diagnosed AML in patients aged ≥ 75 and/or unfit for intensive induction chemotherapy. The current paper proposes an extensive, up-to-date review of the preclinical and clinical development of glasdegib. Elements of its routine clinical use and the landscape of ongoing clinical trials are also stated.
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26
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Identification, Culture and Targeting of Cancer Stem Cells. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12020184. [PMID: 35207472 PMCID: PMC8879966 DOI: 10.3390/life12020184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance, tumor progression, and metastasis are features that are frequently seen in cancer that have been associated with cancer stem cells (CSCs). These cells are a promising target in the future of cancer therapy but remain largely unknown. Deregulation of pathways that govern stemness in non-tumorigenic stem cells (SCs), such as Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog pathways, has been described in CSC pathogenesis, but it is necessary to conduct further studies to discover potential new therapeutic targets. In addition, some markers for the identification and characterization of CSCs have been suggested, but the search for specific CSC markers in many cancer types is still under development. In addition, methods for CSC cultivation are also under development, with great heterogeneity existing in the protocols used. This review focuses on the most recent aspects of the identification, characterization, cultivation, and targeting of human CSCs, highlighting the advances achieved in the clinical implementation of therapies targeting CSCs and remarking those potential areas where more research is still required.
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Naz F, Shi M, Sajid S, Yang Z, Yu C. Cancer stem cells: a major culprit of intra-tumor heterogeneity. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:5782-5811. [PMID: 35018226 PMCID: PMC8727794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is recognized as a preeminent factor of the world's mortality. Although various modalities have been designed to cure this life-threatening ailment, a significant impediment in the effective output of cancer treatment is heterogeneity. Cancer is characterized as a heterogeneous health disorder that comprises a distinct group of transformed cells to assist anomalous proliferation of affected cells. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a leading cause of cancer heterogeneity that is continually transformed by cellular extrinsic and intrinsic factors. They intensify neoplastic cells aggressiveness by strengthening their dissemination, relapse and therapy resistance. Considering this viewpoint, in this review article we have discussed some intrinsic (transcription factors, cell signaling pathways, genetic alterations, epigenetic modifications, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and epitranscriptomics) and extrinsic factors (tumor microenvironment (TME)) that contribute to CSC heterogeneity and plasticity, which may help scientists to meddle these processes and eventually improve cancer research and management. Besides, the potential role of CSCs heterogeneity in establishing metastasis and therapy resistance has been articulated which signifies the importance of developing novel anticancer therapies to target CSCs along with targeting bulk tumor mass to achieve an effective output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiza Naz
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical TechnologyBeijing 100029, China
| | - Mengran Shi
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical TechnologyBeijing 100029, China
| | - Salvia Sajid
- Department of Biotechnology, Jinnah University for WomenKarachi 74600, Pakistan
| | - Zhao Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical TechnologyBeijing 100029, China
- College of Life Science, Key Laboratory of Protection and Utilization of Biological Resources in Tarim Basin of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Tarim UniversityAlar 843300, Xinjiang, China
| | - Changyuan Yu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical TechnologyBeijing 100029, China
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Abraham A, Matsui W. Hedgehog Signaling in Myeloid Malignancies. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13194888. [PMID: 34638372 PMCID: PMC8507617 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The Hedgehog signaling pathway is aberrantly activated in many myeloid malignancies, and pathway inhibition is clinically beneficial in specific patients with acute myeloid leukemia. However, even with the approval of these agents, the role of Hedgehog signaling in other myeloid disorders is less clear. In this review, we summarize the laboratory studies that have examined Hedgehog signaling in normal and malignant hematopoiesis as well as the clinical studies that have been carried out in several myeloid leukemias. Finally, we explore potential strategies to further expand the use of pathway inhibitors as therapies for these diseases. Abstract Myeloid malignancies arise from normal hematopoiesis and include several individual disorders with a wide range of clinical manifestations, treatment options, and clinical outcomes. The Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway is aberrantly activated in many of these diseases, and glasdegib, a Smoothened (SMO) antagonist and HH pathway inhibitor, has recently been approved for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The efficacy of SMO inhibitors in AML suggests that they may be broadly active, but clinical studies in other myeloid malignancies have been largely inconclusive. We will discuss the biological role of the HH pathway in normal hematopoiesis and myeloid malignancies and review clinical studies targeting HH signaling in these diseases. In addition, we will examine SMO-independent pathway activation and highlight potential strategies that may expand the clinical utility of HH pathway antagonists.
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Chai JY, Sugumar V, Alshawsh MA, Wong WF, Arya A, Chong PP, Looi CY. The Role of Smoothened-Dependent and -Independent Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Tumorigenesis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1188. [PMID: 34572373 PMCID: PMC8466551 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh)-glioma-associated oncogene homolog (GLI) signaling pathway is highly conserved among mammals, with crucial roles in regulating embryonic development as well as in cancer initiation and progression. The GLI transcription factors (GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3) are effectors of the Hh pathway and are regulated via Smoothened (SMO)-dependent and SMO-independent mechanisms. The SMO-dependent route involves the common Hh-PTCH-SMO axis, and mutations or transcriptional and epigenetic dysregulation at these levels lead to the constitutive activation of GLI transcription factors. Conversely, the SMO-independent route involves the SMO bypass regulation of GLI transcription factors by external signaling pathways and their interacting proteins or by epigenetic and transcriptional regulation of GLI transcription factors expression. Both routes of GLI activation, when dysregulated, have been heavily implicated in tumorigenesis of many known cancers, making them important targets for cancer treatment. Hence, this review describes the various SMO-dependent and SMO-independent routes of GLI regulation in the tumorigenesis of multiple cancers in order to provide a holistic view of the paradigms of hedgehog signaling networks involving GLI regulation. An in-depth understanding of the complex interplay between GLI and various signaling elements could help inspire new therapeutic breakthroughs for the treatment of Hh-GLI-dependent cancers in the future. Lastly, we have presented an up-to-date summary of the latest findings concerning the use of Hh inhibitors in clinical developmental studies and discussed the challenges, perspectives, and possible directions regarding the use of SMO/GLI inhibitors in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yi Chai
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.Y.C.); (P.P.C.)
| | - Vaisnevee Sugumar
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia;
| | | | - Won Fen Wong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Aditya Arya
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Building 184, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Pei Pei Chong
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.Y.C.); (P.P.C.)
- Centre for Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Chung Yeng Looi
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.Y.C.); (P.P.C.)
- Centre for Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
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Abstract
The outcomes associated with pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have improved over the last few decades, with the implementation of intensive chemotherapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplant, and improved supportive care. However, even with intensive therapy and the use of HSCT, both of which carry significant risks of short- and long-term side effects, approximately 30% of children are not able to be cured. The characterization of AML in pediatrics has evolved over time and it currently involves use of a variety of diagnostic tools, including flow cytometry and comprehensive genomic sequencing. Given the adverse effects of chemotherapy and the need for additional therapeutic options to improve outcomes in these patients, the genomic and molecular architecture is being utilized to inform selection of targeted therapies in pediatric AML. This review provides a summary of current, targeted therapy options in pediatric AML.
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31
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Itzykson R, Fournier E, Berthon C, Röllig C, Braun T, Marceau-Renaut A, Pautas C, Nibourel O, Lemasle E, Micol JB, Adès L, Lebon D, Malfuson JV, Gastaud L, Goursaud L, Raffoux E, Wattebled KJ, Rousselot P, Thomas X, Chantepie S, Cluzeau T, Serve H, Boissel N, Terré C, Celli-Lebras K, Preudhomme C, Thiede C, Dombret H, Gardin C, Duployez N. Genetic identification of patients with AML older than 60 years achieving long-term survival with intensive chemotherapy. Blood 2021; 138:507-519. [PMID: 34410352 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021011103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
To design a simple and reproducible classifier predicting the overall survival (OS) of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) ≥60 years of age treated with 7 + 3, we sequenced 37 genes in 471 patients from the ALFA1200 (Acute Leukemia French Association) study (median age, 68 years). Mutation patterns and OS differed between the 84 patients with poor-risk cytogenetics and the 387 patients with good (n = 13), intermediate (n = 339), or unmeasured (n = 35) cytogenetic risk. TP53 (hazards ratio [HR], 2.49; P = .0003) and KRAS (HR, 3.60; P = .001) mutations independently worsened the OS of patients with poor-risk cytogenetics. In those without poor-risk cytogenetics, NPM1 (HR, 0.57; P = .0004), FLT3 internal tandem duplications with low (HR, 1.85; P = .0005) or high (HR, 3.51; P < 10-4) allelic ratio, DNMT3A (HR, 1.86; P < 10-4), NRAS (HR, 1.54; P = .019), and ASXL1 (HR, 1.89; P = .0003) mutations independently predicted OS. Combining cytogenetic risk and mutations in these 7 genes, 39.1% of patients could be assigned to a "go-go" tier with a 2-year OS of 66.1%, 7.6% to the "no-go" group (2-year OS 2.8%), and 3.3% of to the "slow-go" group (2-year OS of 39.1%; P < 10-5). Across 3 independent validation cohorts, 31.2% to 37.7% and 11.2% to 13.5% of patients were assigned to the go-go and the no-go tiers, respectively, with significant differences in OS between tiers in all 3 trial cohorts (HDF [Hauts-de-France], n = 141, P = .003; and SAL [Study Alliance Leukemia], n = 46; AMLSG [AML Study Group], n = 223, both P < 10-5). The ALFA decision tool is a simple, robust, and discriminant prognostic model for AML patients ≥60 years of age treated with intensive chemotherapy. This model can instruct the design of trials comparing the 7 + 3 standard of care with less intensive regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael Itzykson
- Service Hématologie Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Génomes, Biologie Cellulaire et Thérapeutique, Unité 944, Université de Paris, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Elise Fournier
- Département d'Hématologie, Canther (Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies), Unité 1277, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Université de Lille, INSERM, Lille, France
| | - Céline Berthon
- Département d'Hématologie, Canther (Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies), Unité 1277, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Université de Lille, INSERM, Lille, France
| | - Christoph Röllig
- Medizinische Klinik and
- Poliklinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Techniche Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Thorsten Braun
- Service d'Hématologie Clinique, Hôpital Avicenne, AP-HP, Bobigny, France
| | - Alice Marceau-Renaut
- Département d'Hématologie, Canther (Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies), Unité 1277, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Université de Lille, INSERM, Lille, France
| | - Cécile Pautas
- Service d'Hématologie Clinique, Hôpital Henri Mondor, AP-HP, Créteil, France
| | - Olivier Nibourel
- Département d'Hématologie, Canther (Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies), Unité 1277, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Université de Lille, INSERM, Lille, France
| | - Emilie Lemasle
- Service d'Hématologie, Centre Henri Becquerel, Rouen, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Micol
- Département d'Hématologie, Institut Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Lionel Adès
- Service Hématologie Seniors, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | | | - Jean-Valère Malfuson
- Service d'Hématologie Clinique, Hôpital d'Instruction des Armées Percy, Clamart, France
| | - Lauris Gastaud
- Département d'Oncologie Médicale, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France
| | - Laure Goursaud
- Département d'Hématologie, Canther (Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies), Unité 1277, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Université de Lille, INSERM, Lille, France
| | - Emmanuel Raffoux
- Service Hématologie Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | | | - Philippe Rousselot
- Département d'Hématologie Clinique, Hôpital André Mignot, Centre Hospitalier de Versailles, Le Chesnay, France
- Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 1184, Infectious Disease Models for Innovative Therapies (IDMIT) Department, Université Paris-Saclay, Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique et Aux Énergies Alternatives (CEA), INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Xavier Thomas
- Service d'Hématologie Clinique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Lyon Sud, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | | | - Thomas Cluzeau
- Service d'Hématologie, Université Cote d'Azur, CHU de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Hubert Serve
- Department of Medicine 2, Hematology and Oncology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nicolas Boissel
- Service Hématologie Adolescents Jeunes Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Christine Terré
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, CH Versailles, Le Chesnay, France
| | | | - Claude Preudhomme
- Département d'Hématologie, Canther (Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies), Unité 1277, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Université de Lille, INSERM, Lille, France
| | | | - Hervé Dombret
- Service Hématologie Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis (IRSL), Equipe d'Accueil (EA) 3518, Université de Paris, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Claude Gardin
- Service d'Hématologie Clinique, Hôpital Avicenne, AP-HP, Bobigny, France
- Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis (IRSL), Equipe d'Accueil (EA) 3518, Université de Paris, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Duployez
- Département d'Hématologie, Canther (Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies), Unité 1277, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Université de Lille, INSERM, Lille, France
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Platzbecker U, Kubasch AS, Homer-Bouthiette C, Prebet T. Current challenges and unmet medical needs in myelodysplastic syndromes. Leukemia 2021; 35:2182-2198. [PMID: 34045662 PMCID: PMC8324480 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01265-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) represent a heterogeneous group of myeloid neoplasms that are characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, variable cytopenias, and a risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia. Most patients with MDS are affected by anemia and anemia-related symptoms, which negatively impact their quality of life. While many patients with MDS have lower-risk disease and are managed by existing treatments, there currently is no clear standard of care for many patients. For patients with higher-risk disease, the treatment priority is changing the natural history of the disease by delaying disease progression to acute myeloid leukemia and improving overall survival. However, existing treatments for MDS are generally not curative and many patients experience relapse or resistance to first-line treatment. Thus, there remains an unmet need for new, more effective but tolerable strategies to manage MDS. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics have improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of MDS, and it is becoming clear that the diverse nature of genetic abnormalities that drive MDS demands a complex and personalized treatment approach. This review will discuss some of the challenges related to the current MDS treatment landscape, as well as new approaches currently in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Platzbecker
- Department of Hematology, Cellular Therapy and Hemostaseology, Leipzig University Hospital, Leipzig, Germany.
- German MDS Study Group (D-MDS), Leipzig, Germany.
- The European Myelodysplastic Syndromes Cooperative Group (EMSCO), Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Anne Sophie Kubasch
- Department of Hematology, Cellular Therapy and Hemostaseology, Leipzig University Hospital, Leipzig, Germany
- German MDS Study Group (D-MDS), Leipzig, Germany
- The European Myelodysplastic Syndromes Cooperative Group (EMSCO), Leipzig, Germany
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33
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Phillips DF, Zeidner JF. Emerging therapies for AML with myelodysplasia-related changes: slowly but surely moving the needle. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2021; 26:245-257. [PMID: 34227451 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2021.1950689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Patients with acute myeloid leukemia with myelodysplasia-related changes (AML-MRC) have historically poor outcomes with conventional chemotherapy regimens. Current treatment strategies focus on intensive induction therapy followed by allogeneic stem cell transplant or a less intensive approach with hypomethylating agents with or without venetoclax. CPX-351 is a liposomal formulation of cytarabine and daunorubicin that has been shown to significantly improve response rates and survival compared with 7 + 3 (continuous infusion cytarabine plus anthracyclines). Despite the approval of CPX-351 for AML-MRC, overall prognosis remains poor with an unmet need to develop novel therapeutic strategies for this patient population.Areas covered: This article reviews the data for existing therapeutic options for patients with AML-MRC and the emerging therapies undergoing clinical trial development for this patient population.Expert opinion: The development of CPX-351 as a more effective induction therapeutic backbone for patients with AML-MRC presents an opportunity to investigate novel combination regimens in order to further improve outcomes. Promising emerging therapeutic modalities include immunotherapeutic strategies, small-molecule inhibitors and targeted agents. Unfortunately, there have been few clinical trials focusing on patients with AML-MRC with reliance instead on subgroup analyses. Clinical trials focused specifically on this patient population are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davis F Phillips
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Joshua F Zeidner
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Masters JC, LaBadie RR, Salageanu J, Li J, Shaik N. Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Glasdegib in Participants With Moderate/Severe Hepatic Impairment: A Phase I, Single-Dose, Matched Case-Control Study. Clin Pharmacol Drug Dev 2021; 10:707-717. [PMID: 33356019 PMCID: PMC8359308 DOI: 10.1002/cpdd.897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This phase I open-label trial (NCT03627754) assessed glasdegib pharmacokinetics and safety in otherwise healthy participants with moderate (Child-Pugh B) or severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment. Participants with hepatic impairment and age/weight-matched controls with normal hepatic function received a single oral 100-mg glasdegib dose under fasted conditions. The primary end points were area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time zero to infinity (AUCinf ) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax ). Twenty-four participants (8/cohort) were enrolled. Glasdegib plasma exposures in moderate hepatic impairment were similar to controls, with adjusted geometric mean ratios (GMRs) of 110.8% (90% confidence interval [CI], 78.0-157.3) for AUCinf and 94.8% (69.9-128.4) for Cmax versus controls. In severe hepatic impairment, glasdegib plasma exposures were lower than controls (AUCinf GMR, 75.7%; 90%CI, 51.5-111.0; Cmax GMR, 58.0%; 90%CI, 37.8-89.0). Unbound glasdegib exposures were similar to controls for moderate (AUCinf,u GMR, 118.1%; 90%CI, 88.7-157.2; Cmax,u GMR, 101.1%; 90%CI, 78.4-130.3) and severe hepatic impairment (AUCinf,u GMR, 116.3%; 90%CI 81.8-165.5; Cmax,u GMR, 89.2%, 90%CI, 60.2-132.3). No treatment-related adverse events or clinically significant changes in laboratory values, vital signs, or electrocardiograms were observed. Together with previous findings, this suggests glasdegib dose modifications are not required based on hepatic impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jerry Li
- Clinical PharmacologyPfizer IncLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Naveed Shaik
- Clinical PharmacologyPfizer IncLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
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35
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Madaci L, Colle J, Venton G, Farnault L, Loriod B, Costello R. The contribution of single-cell analysis of acute leukemia in the therapeutic strategy. Biomark Res 2021; 9:50. [PMID: 34176517 PMCID: PMC8237443 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-021-00300-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
After decades during which the treatment of acute myeloblastic leukemia was limited to variations around a skeleton of cytarabine/anthracycline, targeted therapies appeared. These therapies, first based on monoclonal antibodies, also rely on specific inhibitors of various molecular abnormalities. A significant but modest prognosis improvement has been observed thanks to these new treatments that are limited by a high rate of relapse, due to the intrinsic chemo and immune-resistance of leukemia stem cell, together with the acquisition of these resistances by clonal evolution. Relapses are also influenced by the equilibrium between the pro or anti-tumor signals from the bone marrow stromal microenvironment and immune effectors. What should be the place of the targeted therapeutic options in light of the tumor heterogeneity inherent to leukemia and the clonal drift of which this type of tumor is capable? Novel approaches by single cell analysis and next generation sequencing precisely define clonal heterogeneity and evolution, leading to a personalized and time variable adapted treatment. Indeed, the evolution of leukemia, either spontaneous or under therapy selection pressure, is a very complex phenomenon. The model of linear evolution is to be forgotten because single cell analysis of samples at diagnosis and at relapse show that tumor escape to therapy occurs from ancestral as well as terminal clones. The determination by the single cell technique of the trajectories of the different tumor sub-populations allows the identification of clones that accumulate factors of resistance to chemo/immunotherapy ("pan-resistant clones"), making possible to choose the combinatorial agents most likely to eradicate these cells. In addition, the single cell technique identifies the nature of each cell and can analyze, on the same sample, both the tumor cells and their environment. It is thus possible to evaluate the populations of immune effectors (T-lymphocytes, natural killer cells) for the leukemia stress-induced alteration of their functions. Finally, the single cells techniques are an invaluable tool for evaluation of the measurable residual disease since not only able to quantify but also to determine the most appropriate treatment according to the sensitivity profile to immuno-chemotherapy of remaining leukemic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamia Madaci
- Laboratoire TAGC/INSERM UMR 1090, Parc Scientifique de Luminy case 928, 163, Avenue de Luminy, Cedex 09, 13288, Marseille, France
| | - Julien Colle
- Laboratoire TAGC/INSERM UMR 1090, Parc Scientifique de Luminy case 928, 163, Avenue de Luminy, Cedex 09, 13288, Marseille, France.,Service d'Hématologie et Thérapie Cellulaire, Hôpital La Conception, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147 boulevard Baille, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Geoffroy Venton
- Laboratoire TAGC/INSERM UMR 1090, Parc Scientifique de Luminy case 928, 163, Avenue de Luminy, Cedex 09, 13288, Marseille, France.,Service d'Hématologie et Thérapie Cellulaire, Hôpital La Conception, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147 boulevard Baille, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Laure Farnault
- Laboratoire TAGC/INSERM UMR 1090, Parc Scientifique de Luminy case 928, 163, Avenue de Luminy, Cedex 09, 13288, Marseille, France.,Service d'Hématologie et Thérapie Cellulaire, Hôpital La Conception, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147 boulevard Baille, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Béatrice Loriod
- Laboratoire TAGC/INSERM UMR 1090, Parc Scientifique de Luminy case 928, 163, Avenue de Luminy, Cedex 09, 13288, Marseille, France.,TGML-TAGC/INSERM UMR1090 Parc Scientifique de Luminy case 928, 163, avenue de Luminy, Cedex 09, 13288, Marseille, France
| | - Régis Costello
- Laboratoire TAGC/INSERM UMR 1090, Parc Scientifique de Luminy case 928, 163, Avenue de Luminy, Cedex 09, 13288, Marseille, France. .,Service d'Hématologie et Thérapie Cellulaire, Hôpital La Conception, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147 boulevard Baille, 13005, Marseille, France.
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Glasdegib as maintenance therapy for patients with AML and MDS patients at high risk for postallogeneic stem cell transplant relapse. Blood Adv 2021; 4:3102-3108. [PMID: 32634235 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020001991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Key Points
Posttransplantation, glasdegib maintenance therapy in patients at high risk for relapse did not meaningfully reduce relapse incidence. Use of glasdegib in the posttransplantation setting was complicated by adverse events requiring drug holds and occasional discontinuation.
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Raghav PK, Mann Z. Cancer stem cells targets and combined therapies to prevent cancer recurrence. Life Sci 2021; 277:119465. [PMID: 33831426 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) control the dynamics of tumorigenesis by self-renewal ability and differentiation potential. These properties contribute towards tumor malignancy, metastasis, cellular heterogeneity, and immune escape, which are regulated by multiple signaling pathways. The CSCs are chemoresistant and cause cancer recurrence, generally recognized as a small side-population that eventually leads to tumor relapse. Despite many treatment options available, none can be considered entirely efficient due to a lack of specificity and dose limitation. This review primarily highlights the processes involved in CSCs development and maintenance. Secondly, the current effective therapies based on stem cells, cell-free therapies that involve exosomes and miRNAs, and photodynamic therapy have been discussed. Also, the inhibitors that specifically target various signaling pathways, which can be used in combination to control CSCs kinetics have been highlighted. Conclusively, this comprehensive review is a detailed study of recently developed novel treatment strategies that will facilitate in coming up with better-targeted approaches against CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zoya Mann
- Independent Researcher, New Delhi, India
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Waksal JA, Tallman MS. Incorporation of Novel therapies for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia: a perspective. Leuk Lymphoma 2021; 62:779-790. [PMID: 33541192 PMCID: PMC8631181 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2020.1842403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous group of diseases that poses an array of therapeutic challenges. For decades two chemotherapeutic agents, cytarabine and daunorubicin, remained the backbone of AML therapy protocols. However, since 2017 nine novel therapies have been approved for the management of AML. With the rapid expansion of therapeutic options, hematologists must adapt their practice to optimize the benefits of these novel therapy options and minimize treatment toxicity. Here, we discuss the novel therapies that have changed the standard of care in management of patients with AML. We summarize the pivotal clinical trials that lead to the approval of these agents, and ongoing trials evaluating additional potential indications. We discuss several promising therapy candidates and their corresponding clinical trials. We discuss therapeutic strategies to incorporate these therapies into practice and pose unanswered questions that have arisen along with the expansion of treatment options.
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Lin TL, Pagano L. The important role of intensive induction chemotherapy in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Expert Rev Hematol 2021; 14:303-314. [PMID: 33593202 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2021.1886920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Intensive induction chemotherapy followed by post-remission consolidation and/or allogeneic hematopoietic transplantation has been a standard-of-care therapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) for decades. In recent years, a plethora of new agents have been approved for AML treatment, dramatically changing the AML treatment landscape.Areas covered: This review provides an overview of the current role of intensive chemotherapy in the changing AML treatment landscape. PubMed-indexed publications (through 2020) and abstracts presented at major national and international conferences were reviewed for inclusion.Expert opinion: While intensive chemotherapy is standard-of-care therapy for younger patients with AML, older patients were historically viewed as universally ineligible for intensive chemotherapy; however, several studies suggest many older patients benefit from intensive chemotherapy with a curative intent, and a more holistic approach to determining eligibility for intensive treatment is recommended. Intensive strategies have also been expanded to include novel chemotherapy designs and chemotherapy in combination with targeted agents for patients with certain disease characteristics, which may permit more personalized treatment decisions. Intensive chemotherapy continues to play a pivotal role for the management of many AML patients and can offer the best chance of long-term remission, especially when followed by transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara L Lin
- Medicine, Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Livio Pagano
- Hematology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli - IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Hematology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Jiang X, Jiang L, Cheng J, Chen F, Ni J, Yin C, Wang Q, Wang Z, Fang D, Yi Z, Yu G, Zhong Q, Carter BZ, Meng F. Inhibition of EZH2 by chidamide exerts antileukemia activity and increases chemosensitivity through Smo/Gli-1 pathway in acute myeloid leukemia. J Transl Med 2021; 19:117. [PMID: 33743723 PMCID: PMC7981995 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-02789-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Epigenetic dysregulation plays important roles in leukemogenesis and the progression of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) reciprocally regulate the acetylation and deacetylation of nuclear histones. Aberrant activation of HDACs results in uncontrolled proliferation and blockade of differentiation, and HDAC inhibition has been investigated as epigenetic therapeutic strategy against AML. Methods Cell growth was assessed with CCK-8 assay, and apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry in AML cell lines and CD45 + and CD34 + CD38- cells from patient samples after staining with Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/propidium iodide (PI). EZH2 was silenced with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) or overexpressed by lentiviral transfection. Changes in signaling pathways were detected by western blotting. The effect of chidamide or EZH2-specific shRNA (shEZH2) in combination with adriamycin was studied in vivo in leukemia-bearing nude mouse models. Results In this study, we investigated the antileukemia effects of HDAC inhibitor chidamide and its combinatorial activity with cytotoxic agent adriamycin in AML cells. We demonstrated that chidamide suppressed the levels of EZH2, H3K27me3 and DNMT3A, exerted potential antileukemia activity and increased the sensitivity to adriamycin through disruption of Smo/Gli-1 pathway and downstream signaling target p-AKT in AML cells and stem/progenitor cells. In addition to decreasing the levels of H3K27me3 and DNMT3A, inhibition of EZH2 either pharmacologically by chidamide or genetically by shEZH2 suppressed the activity of Smo/Gli-1 pathway and increased the antileukemia activity of adriamycin against AML in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions Inhibition of EZH2 by chidamide has antileukemia activity and increases the chemosensitivity to adriamycin through Smo/Gli-1 pathway in AML cells (Fig. 5). These findings support the rational combination of HDAC inhibitors and chemotherapy for the treatment of AML. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-02789-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejie Jiang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ling Jiang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiaying Cheng
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinle Ni
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Changxin Yin
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhixiang Wang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Dan Fang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhengshan Yi
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Guopan Yu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingxiu Zhong
- Department of Hematology, Kanghua Hospital, Dongguan, 523080, Guangdong, China
| | - Bing Z Carter
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Fanyi Meng
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China. .,Department of Hematology, Kanghua Hospital, Dongguan, 523080, Guangdong, China.
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Zucenka A, Maneikis K, Pugaciute B, Ringeleviciute U, Dapkeviciute A, Davainis L, Daukelaite G, Burzdikaite P, Staras V, Griskevicius L. Glasdegib in combination with low-dose Cytarabine for the outpatient treatment of relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia in unfit patients. Ann Hematol 2021; 100:1195-1202. [PMID: 33661333 PMCID: PMC7930524 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-021-04471-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We retrospectively collected clinical data on 31 relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (R/R AML) patients who were treated with outpatient glasdegib and low-dose Cytarabine (LDAraC) at our institution. The median age was 67 years (45–86). The median Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status was 2 (1–3). The patients had previously received a median number of 2 (1–4) treatment lines, 61% (19/31) had been treated with intensive chemotherapy, 29% (9/31) had relapsed after allogeneic stem cell transplantation, and 45% (14/31) had had venetoclax exposure. Adverse cytogenetics were identified in 45% (14/31) of the cases. The CR + CRp rate was 21% (6/29) among evaluable patients. The median overall survival was 3.9 months for all patients. Different median overall survival times were observed in responders, patients achieving stable disease and those diagnosed with progressive disease: not reached vs 3.9 months vs 0.8 months, respectively (p < 0.001). The most common adverse events were pneumonia (29%, 9/31), sepsis (23%, 7/31), and febrile neutropenia (16%, 5/31). Glasdegib + LDAraC is a fairly safe, non-intensive, outpatient regimen inducing complete remission and resulting in prolonged survival in some R/R AML patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrius Zucenka
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania.
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Department, Hematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine Center, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Kazimieras Maneikis
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Department, Hematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine Center, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Birute Pugaciute
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Department, Hematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine Center, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Ugne Ringeleviciute
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Department, Hematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine Center, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Austeja Dapkeviciute
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Department, Hematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine Center, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Linas Davainis
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Department, Hematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine Center, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Guoda Daukelaite
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Paulina Burzdikaite
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vytautas Staras
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Department, Hematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine Center, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Laimonas Griskevicius
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Department, Hematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine Center, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Ruiz‐Garcia A, Shaik N, Lin S, Jamieson C, Heuser M, Chan G. Evaluation of the Relationship of Glasdegib Exposure and Safety End Points in Patients With Refractory Solid Tumors and Hematologic Malignancies. J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 61:349-359. [PMID: 32974950 PMCID: PMC7891441 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.1742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Glasdegib is approved for treating acute myeloid leukemia in elderly patients at 100 mg once daily in combination with low-dose cytarabine. Exposure-efficacy analysis showed that the survival benefit of glasdegib was not glasdegib exposure-dependent. The relationship between glasdegib exposure and adverse event (AE) cluster terms of clinical concern was explored in this analysis. The incidence and severity of dysgeusia, muscle spasms, renal toxicity, and QT interval prolonged was modeled using ordinal logistic regression. AEs were graded using the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.03). Estimated pharmacokinetic parameters were used to derive glasdegib exposure metrics. Demographic characteristics, disease factors, and other variables of interest as potential moderators of safety signals were evaluated. Clinical trial data from patients who received single-agent glasdegib (N = 70; 5-640 mg once daily); or glasdegib (N = 202, 100-200 mg once daily) with low-dose cytarabine, decitabine, or daunorubicin and cytarabine were analyzed. Glasdegib exposure was statistically significantly associated with the cluster term safety end points dysgeusia, muscle spasms, renal toxicity, and QT interval prolonged. The impact of age on muscle spasms and baseline body weight and creatinine clearance on renal toxicity helped explain the AE grade distribution. At the 100 mg once daily clinical dose, the predicted probabilities of the highest AE grade were 11.3%, 6.7%, 7.7%, and 2.5% for dysgeusia, muscle spasms, renal toxicity, and QT interval prolonged, respectively. Overall, the predicted probability of developing an AE of any severity for these safety end points was low. Therefore, no starting dose adjustments are recommended for glasdegib based on the observed safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Naveed Shaik
- Pfizer Clinical PharmacologySan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Swan Lin
- Pfizer Clinical PharmacologySan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Michael Heuser
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell TransplantationHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive blood cancer that proves fatal for the majority of affected individuals. Older patients are particularly vulnerable due to more unfavorable disease biology and diminished ability to tolerate intensive induction chemotherapy (ICT). Safer, more efficacious therapies are desperately needed. AREAS COVERED We briefly summarize the challenges facing AML treatment and introduce the rapidly expanding therapeutic landscape. Our focus is on the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway and how preclinical evidence has spurred the clinical development of selective inhibitors for oncology indications. Glasdegib is the first Hh pathway inhibitor approved for the treatment of a hematologic malignancy, and we review its pharmacology, safety, efficacy, and potential clinical impact in AML patients. EXPERT OPINION Advances in the mechanistic understanding of AML have started to translate into improved therapeutic options for patients with contraindications to ICT. Glasdegib improved overall survival in this population when combined with low-dose cytarabine. While an encouraging development for these difficult to treat patients, alternative combination therapy approaches such as venetoclax plus azacitidine have gained greater clinical traction. Further investigation of glasdegib combination strategies and predictive biomarkers, particularly in regard to overcoming chemoresistance and preventing relapse, is needed to better define its clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn M Sarkaria
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, NY, USA
| | - Mark L Heaney
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, NY, USA
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Molecular Targeted Therapy in Myelodysplastic Syndromes: New Options for Tailored Treatments. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040784. [PMID: 33668555 PMCID: PMC7917605 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of diseases in which bone marrow stem cells acquire genetic alterations and can initiate leukemia, blocking the production of mature blood cells. It is of crucial importance to identify those genetic abnormalities because some of them can be the targeted. To date only very few drugs are approved for patients manifesting this group of disorders and there is an urgent need to develop new effective therapies. This review gives an overview of the genetic of MDS and the therapeutic options available and in clinical experimentation. Abstract Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic disorders characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, progressive cytopenias and increased risk of transformation to acute myeloid leukemia. The improved understanding of the underlying biology and genetics of MDS has led to better disease and risk classification, paving the way for novel therapeutic opportunities. Indeed, we now have a vast pipeline of targeted agents under pre-clinical and clinical development, potentially able to modify the natural history of the diverse disease spectrum of MDS. Here, we review the latest therapeutic approaches (investigational and approved agents) for MDS treatment. A deep insight will be given to molecularly targeted therapies by reviewing new agents for individualized precision medicine.
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Venetoclax plus LDAC for newly diagnosed AML ineligible for intensive chemotherapy: a phase 3 randomized placebo-controlled trial. Blood 2021; 135:2137-2145. [PMID: 32219442 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020004856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 436] [Impact Index Per Article: 145.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective treatment options are limited for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who cannot tolerate intensive chemotherapy. Adults age ≥18 years with newly diagnosed AML ineligible for intensive chemotherapy were enrolled in this international phase 3 randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Patients (N = 211) were randomized 2:1 to venetoclax (n = 143) or placebo (n = 68) in 28-day cycles, plus low-dose cytarabine (LDAC) on days 1 to 10. Primary end point was overall survival (OS); secondary end points included response rate, transfusion independence, and event-free survival. Median age was 76 years (range, 36-93 years), 38% had secondary AML, and 20% had received prior hypomethylating agent treatment. Planned primary analysis showed a 25% reduction in risk of death with venetoclax plus LDAC vs LDAC alone (hazard ratio [HR], 0.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.52-1.07; P = .11), although not statistically significant; median OS was 7.2 vs 4.1 months, respectively. Unplanned analysis with additional 6-month follow-up demonstrated median OS of 8.4 months for the venetoclax arm (HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.50-0.98; P = .04). Complete remission (CR) plus CR with incomplete blood count recovery rates were 48% and 13% for venetoclax plus LDAC and LDAC alone, respectively. Key grade ≥3 adverse events (venetoclax vs LDAC alone) were febrile neutropenia (32% vs 29%), neutropenia (47% vs 16%), and thrombocytopenia (45% vs 37%). Venetoclax plus LDAC demonstrates clinically meaningful improvement in remission rate and OS vs LDAC alone, with a manageable safety profile. Results confirm venetoclax plus LDAC as an important frontline treatment for AML patients unfit for intensive chemotherapy. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03069352.
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Forsaken Pharmaceutical: Glasdegib in Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Myeloid Diseases. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2021; 21:e415-e422. [PMID: 33547022 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Advancements in the understanding of the pathogenesis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have led to the introduction and approval of a number of novel drugs in AML. Glasdegib, an oral hedgehog pathway inhibitor, was approved in 2018 in combination with low-dose cytarabine for the treatment of newly diagnosed AML in patients unfit for intensive chemotherapy. In this review, we discuss the preclinical rationale for glasdegib, important clinical trials that led to glasdegib's approval, and future trials of glasdegib in AML and other myeloid diseases. Notably, 2 large randomized, placebo-controlled phase 3 trials (AML BRIGHT 1019) are currently recruiting patients with newly diagnosed AML to evaluate glasdegib in combination with intensive chemotherapy or azacitidine, depending on the patient's ability to tolerate induction chemotherapy. While glasdegib and low-dose cytarabine have been eclipsed by venetoclax and hypomethylating agent combinations for newly diagnosed AML in the United States, we discuss other areas where glasdegib may still have an opportunity to improve outcomes in this devastating disease.
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Pollyea DA, Pratz K, Letai A, Jonas BA, Wei AH, Pullarkat V, Konopleva M, Thirman MJ, Arellano M, Becker PS, Chyla B, Hong W, Jiang Q, Potluri J, DiNardo CD. Venetoclax with azacitidine or decitabine in patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia: Long term follow-up from a phase 1b study. Am J Hematol 2021; 96:208-217. [PMID: 33119898 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.26039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This analysis represents the longest-term follow-up for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated with 400 mg of venetoclax plus azacitidine or decitabine. Adults with newly diagnosed AML ineligible for intensive chemotherapy were enrolled in an open-label, non-randomized, multicenter phase 1b trial of venetoclax with azacitidine (AZA; 75 mg/m2 ; days 1-7) or decitabine (DEC; 20 mg/m2 ; days 1-5). Endpoints included safety, response rates (complete remission [CR], CR with incomplete blood count recovery [CRi]), response duration and overall survival (OS). The median follow-up time was 29 and 40 months for patients treated with venetoclax plus AZA and DEC combinations, respectively. Key Grade ≥ 3 AEs (AZA and DEC) were febrile neutropenia (39% and 65%), anemia (30% and 26%), thrombocytopenia (25% and 23%), and neutropenia (20% and 10%). The CR/CRi rate was 71% for venetoclax plus AZA and 74% for venetoclax plus DEC. The median duration of CR/CRi was 21.9 months and 15.0 months, and the median OS was 16.4 months and 16.2 months, for venetoclax plus AZA and DEC, respectively. These results support venetoclax plus hypomethylating agents as highly effective frontline AML therapies for patients unfit for intensive chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Keith Pratz
- The University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Anthony Letai
- Department of Medical Oncology Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute Boston Massachusetts
| | - Brian A. Jonas
- Division of Hematology and Oncology University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center Sacramento California
| | - Andrew H. Wei
- The Alfred Hospital and Monash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Vinod Pullarkat
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation and Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research City of Hope National Medical Center Duarte California
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Leukemia The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas
| | | | - Martha Arellano
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta Georgia
| | - Pamela S. Becker
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine University of Washington School of Medicine Seattle Washington
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine UCI School of Medicine Irvine California
| | | | | | - Qi Jiang
- AbbVie Inc. North Chicago Illinois
| | | | - Courtney D. DiNardo
- Department of Leukemia The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas
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Ianevski A, Lahtela J, Javarappa KK, Sergeev P, Ghimire BR, Gautam P, Vähä-Koskela M, Turunen L, Linnavirta N, Kuusanmäki H, Kontro M, Porkka K, Heckman CA, Mattila P, Wennerberg K, Giri AK, Aittokallio T. Patient-tailored design for selective co-inhibition of leukemic cell subpopulations. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabe4038. [PMID: 33608276 PMCID: PMC7895436 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abe4038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The extensive drug resistance requires rational approaches to design personalized combinatorial treatments that exploit patient-specific therapeutic vulnerabilities to selectively target disease-driving cell subpopulations. To solve the combinatorial explosion challenge, we implemented an effective machine learning approach that prioritizes patient-customized drug combinations with a desired synergy-efficacy-toxicity balance by combining single-cell RNA sequencing with ex vivo single-agent testing in scarce patient-derived primary cells. When applied to two diagnostic and two refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patient cases, each with a different genetic background, we accurately predicted patient-specific combinations that not only resulted in synergistic cancer cell co-inhibition but also were capable of targeting specific AML cell subpopulations that emerge in differing stages of disease pathogenesis or treatment regimens. Our functional precision oncology approach provides an unbiased means for systematic identification of personalized combinatorial regimens that selectively co-inhibit leukemic cells while avoiding inhibition of nonmalignant cells, thereby increasing their likelihood for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandr Ianevski
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Institute for Information Technology (HIIT), Department of Computer Science, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
| | - Jenni Lahtela
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Komal K Javarappa
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Philipp Sergeev
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Bishwa R Ghimire
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Prson Gautam
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markus Vähä-Koskela
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Laura Turunen
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nora Linnavirta
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heikki Kuusanmäki
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC) and Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Hematology, Helsinki University Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mika Kontro
- Department of Hematology, Helsinki University Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kimmo Porkka
- Helsinki University Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center, Hematology Research Unit Helsinki, iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Caroline A Heckman
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pirkko Mattila
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Krister Wennerberg
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC) and Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anil K Giri
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Tero Aittokallio
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Helsinki Institute for Information Technology (HIIT), Department of Computer Science, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
- Institute for Cancer Research, Department of Cancer Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology (OCBE), Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Ferguson LP, Diaz E, Reya T. The Role of the Microenvironment and Immune System in Regulating Stem Cell Fate in Cancer. Trends Cancer 2021; 7:624-634. [PMID: 33509688 PMCID: PMC8318571 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite gains in knowledge of the intrinsic signals governing cancer progression, effective clinical management of cancer remains a challenge. Drug resistance and relapse, pose the greatest barriers to cancer care, and are often driven by the co-option of stem cell programs by subpopulations of aggressive cancer cells. Here, we focus on the role of the microenvironment in the acquisition and/ or maintenance of stem cell states in cancer in the context of resistance and metastasis. We further discuss the role of cancer stem cells in immune evasion through the course of metastasis, dormancy, and relapse. Understanding the niche in which cancer stem cells live and the signals that sustain them may lead to new strategies that target them by disrupting microenvironmental support.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Paige Ferguson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Emily Diaz
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tannishtha Reya
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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50
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Bazinet A, Assouline S. A review of FDA-approved acute myeloid leukemia therapies beyond '7 + 3'. Expert Rev Hematol 2021; 14:185-197. [PMID: 33430671 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2021.1875814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The standard anthracycline and cytarabine-based chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has changed relatively little since the 1970s and produces unsatisfactory outcomes in many patients. In the past two decades, a better understanding of the pathophysiology and heterogeneity of this disease has led to promising new therapies, resulting in a flurry of new drug approvals.Areas covered: The MEDLINE database, ClinicalTrials.gov and conference proceedings were reviewed for the most salient literature concerning FDA-approved drugs for AML beyond standard chemotherapy: gemtuzumab ozogamicin, hypomethylating agents, Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) inhibitors, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) inhibitors, venetoclax, liposomal cytarabine and daunorubicin (CPX-351), and hedgehog pathway inhibitors. Key evidence for their efficacy is discussed. For each drug category, indications, typical usage and responses, major toxicities, and future directions for research are highlighted.Expert opinion: The treatment paradigm for AML is rapidly evolving. Promising new drugs targeting driver mutations have improved outcomes in specific AML subgroups. In parallel, advances in low-intensity therapies have allowed patients unfit for standard induction chemotherapy to achieve meaningful disease control. Further work is ongoing to identify synergistic drug combinations as well as optimal treatment selection guided by individual patient and disease features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Bazinet
- Department of Hematology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sarit Assouline
- Department of Hematology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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