1
|
Shore CJ, Villicaña S, El-Sayed Moustafa JS, Roberts AL, Gunn DA, Bataille V, Deloukas P, Spector TD, Small KS, Bell JT. Genetic effects on the skin methylome in healthy older twins. Am J Hum Genet 2024; 111:1932-1952. [PMID: 39137780 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2024.07.010] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Whole-skin DNA methylation variation has been implicated in several diseases, including melanoma, but its genetic basis has not yet been fully characterized. Using bulk skin tissue samples from 414 healthy female UK twins, we performed twin-based heritability and methylation quantitative trait loci (meQTL) analyses for >400,000 DNA methylation sites. We find that the human skin DNA methylome is on average less heritable than previously estimated in blood and other tissues (mean heritability: 10.02%). meQTL analysis identified local genetic effects influencing DNA methylation at 18.8% (76,442) of tested CpG sites, as well as 1,775 CpG sites associated with at least one distal genetic variant. As a functional follow-up, we performed skin expression QTL (eQTL) analyses in a partially overlapping sample of 604 female twins. Colocalization analysis identified over 3,500 shared genetic effects affecting thousands of CpG sites (10,067) and genes (4,475). Mediation analysis of putative colocalized gene-CpG pairs identified 114 genes with evidence for eQTL effects being mediated by DNA methylation in skin, including in genes implicating skin disease such as ALOX12 and CSPG4. We further explored the relevance of skin meQTLs to skin disease and found that skin meQTLs and CpGs under genetic influence were enriched for multiple skin-related genome-wide and epigenome-wide association signals, including for melanoma and psoriasis. Our findings give insights into the regulatory landscape of epigenomic variation in skin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Shore
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Sergio Villicaña
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Amy L Roberts
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Veronique Bataille
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Panos Deloukas
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Tim D Spector
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kerrin S Small
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jordana T Bell
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Putnová I, Putnová BM, Hurník P, Štembírek J, Buchtová M, Kolísková P. Primary cilia-associated signalling in squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck region. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1413255. [PMID: 39234399 PMCID: PMC11372790 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1413255] [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: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the head and neck originates from the mucosal lining of the upper aerodigestive tract, including the lip, tongue, nasopharynx, oropharynx, larynx and hypopharynx. In this review, we summarise what is currently known about the potential function of primary cilia in the pathogenesis of this disease. As primary cilia represent a key cellular structure for signal transduction and are related to cell proliferation, an understanding of their role in carcinogenesis is necessary for the design of new treatment approaches. Here, we introduce cilia-related signalling in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and its possible association with HNSCC tumorigenesis. From this point of view, PDGF, EGF, Wnt and Hh signalling are discussed as all these pathways were found to be dysregulated in HNSCC. Moreover, we review the clinical potential of small molecules affecting primary cilia signalling to target squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iveta Putnová
- Laboratory of Molecular Morphogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Barbora Moldovan Putnová
- Laboratory of Molecular Morphogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Pathological Morphology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Pavel Hurník
- Laboratory of Molecular Morphogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Pathology and Medical Genetics, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Pathology and Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Jan Štembírek
- Laboratory of Molecular Morphogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Marcela Buchtová
- Laboratory of Molecular Morphogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Petra Kolísková
- Laboratory of Molecular Morphogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Leović M, Jakovčević A, Mumlek I, Zagorac I, Sabol M, Leović D. A Pilot Immunohistochemical Study Identifies Hedgehog Pathway Expression in Sinonasal Adenocarcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4630. [PMID: 38731849 PMCID: PMC11083810 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094630] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumors of the head and neck, more specifically the squamous cell carcinoma, often show upregulation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway. However, almost nothing is known about its role in the sinonasal adenocarcinoma, either in intestinal or non-intestinal subtypes. In this work, we have analyzed immunohistochemical staining of six Hedgehog pathway proteins, sonic Hedgehog (SHH), Indian Hedgehog (IHH), Patched1 (PTCH1), Gli family zinc finger 1 (GLI1), Gli family zinc finger 2 (GLI2), and Gli family zinc finger 3 (GLI3), on 21 samples of sinonasal adenocarcinoma and compared them with six colon adenocarcinoma and three salivary gland tumors, as well as with matching healthy tissue, where available. We have detected GLI2 and PTCH1 in the majority of samples and also GLI1 in a subset of samples, while GLI3 and the ligands SHH and IHH were generally not detected. PTCH1 pattern of staining shows an interesting pattern, where healthy samples are mostly positive in the stromal compartment, while the signal shifts to the tumor compartment in tumors. This, taken together with a stronger signal of GLI2 in tumors compared to non-tumor tissues, suggests that the Hedgehog pathway is indeed activated in sinonasal adenocarcinoma. As Hedgehog pathway inhibitors are being tested in combination with other therapies for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, this could provide a therapeutic option for patients with sinonasal adenocarcinoma as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matko Leović
- Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Antonija Jakovčević
- Department of Pathology, Cllinical Hospital Center Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Ivan Mumlek
- Department of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Clinical Hospital Center Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, 31000 Osijek, Croatia;
| | - Irena Zagorac
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Hospital Center Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, 31000 Osijek, Croatia;
| | - Maja Sabol
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička Cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dinko Leović
- Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yang Y, Yang C, Yang Q, Lu S, Liu B, Li D, Li D, Zhang P, Xu P, Lang J, Zhou J. Elucidating Hedgehog pathway's role in HNSCC progression: insights from a 6-gene signature. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4686. [PMID: 38409358 PMCID: PMC10897175 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54937-6] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
With the emergence of targeted inhibition strategies for Hedgehog signaling in cancer, multiple Hedgehog signaling pathway-related biomarkers have become the focus of research. SsGSEA algorithm was employed to analyze the Hedgehog pathway scores of samples in TCGA-HNSC dataset and divide them into two groups. Weighted co-expression network analysis was performed to identify modules strongly associated with the Hedgehog pathway. Differentially up-regulated genes in tumor samples in comparison to the normal ones were screened by Limma, in which genes belonging to modules strongly related to Hedgehog pathway were further filtered by LASSO reduction and multivariate Cox regression analysis to develop a model. ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT were served to characterize the tumor microenvironment (TME). TIDE assessed immunotherapy response. Hedgehog pathway activity was significantly higher in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tissues than in normal tissues and was correlated with HNSCC survival, glycan, cofactors and vitamins, drug metabolism, and matrix scores. Six genes (SLC2A3, EFNB2, OAF, COX4I2, MT2A and TXNRD1) were captured to form a Hedgehog associated 6-gene signature, and the resulting risk score was an independent indicator of HNSCC prognosis. It was significantly positively correlated with stromal score, metabolism, angiogenesis and inflammatory response. Patients in low-risk group with a low TIDE score had higher immunotherapy sensitivity relative to those in high-risk group. This study revealed novel findings of the Hedgehog pathway in HNSCC progression and opened up a Hedgehog pathology-related signature to help identify risk factors contributing to HNSCC progression and help predict immunotherapy outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Oncology, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, 610014, China
| | - Chenxi Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China
| | - Qiying Yang
- Military Casualty Management Department, General Hospital of the Western War Zone of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Shun Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China
| | - Bisheng Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China
| | - Dongyun Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China
| | - Dongliang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China
| | - Jinyi Lang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kumar M, Jha AK. Exploring the potential of dietary factors and plant extracts as chemopreventive agents in oral squamous cell carcinoma treatment. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2023; 4:1246873. [PMID: 37859687 PMCID: PMC10582632 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2023.1246873] [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: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral cancer, particularly oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), is a prevalent malignancy having a significant fatality rate worldwide. Despite advancements in conventional treatment modalities, the overall survival rate for OSCC remains low. Therefore, there is a critical need to explore alternative therapeutic approaches that can improve patient outcomes. This review focuses on the potential of dietary factors and plant extracts as chemopreventive agents in treating oral cancer. These compounds possess diverse biological functions encompassing a range of attributes, such as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer capabilities. By targeting multiple cellular pathways involved in carcinogenesis, they possess the capacity to hinder tumor growth and development, promote programmed cell death, and impede the progression of oral cancer. Signaling pathways targeted by natural compounds that have been included in this review include Akt/mTOR/NF-κB signaling, Hippo-Tafazzin signaling pathway, notch signaling pathway, mitochondrial pathway, and Sonic Hedgehog pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Abhimanyu Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, Sharda School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cierpikowski P, Leszczyszyn A, Bar J. The Role of Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cells 2023; 12:2083. [PMID: 37626893 PMCID: PMC10453169 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth leading malignancy worldwide, with a poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Molecularly targeted therapies for HNSCC are still lacking. However, recent reports provide novel insights about many molecular alterations in HNSCC that may be useful in future therapies. Therefore, it is necessary to identify new biomarkers that may provide a better prediction of the disease and promising targets for personalized therapy. The poor response of HNSCC to therapy is attributed to a small population of tumor cells called cancer stem cells (CSCs). Growing evidence indicates that the Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of head and neck tissues. The HH pathway is normally involved in embryogenesis, stem cell renewal, and tissue regeneration. However, abnormal activation of the HH pathway is also associated with carcinogenesis and CSC regulation. Overactivation of the HH pathway was observed in several tumors, including basal cell carcinoma, that are successfully treated with HH inhibitors. However, clinical studies about HH pathways in HNSCC are still rare. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge and recent advances regarding the HH pathway in HNSCC and discuss its possible implications for prognosis and future therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Cierpikowski
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, The Ludwik Rydygier Specialist Hospital, Osiedle Zlotej Jesieni 1, 31-826 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Leszczyszyn
- Dental Surgery Outpatient Clinic, 4th Military Clinical Hospital, Weigla 5, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Julia Bar
- Department of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Bujwida 44, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ma GY, Shi S, Sang YZ, Wang P, Zhang ZG. High Expression of SMO and GLI1 Genes with Poor Prognosis in Malignant Mesothelioma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:6575194. [PMID: 37139482 PMCID: PMC10151145 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6575194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Background To investigate the value of SMO and GLI1 genes in the hedgehog pathway in malignant mesothelioma specimens. Further study on the expression and prognosis of SMO and GLI1 in malignant mesothelioma tissues and the relationship between the two and the molecular mechanisms of mesothelioma immunity and to further investigate the prognostic value of mesothelioma expression. Materials and Methods Immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR were applied to detect the expression of SMO and GLI1 proteins and mRNA in biopsy specimens and plasma cavity effusion specimens from malignant mesothelioma (n = 130) and benign mesothelial tissues (n = 50) and to analyze the clinicopathological significance and survival risk factors of SMO and GLI1 protein expression in mesothelioma. The mechanisms of mesothelioma cell expression and immune cell infiltration were investigated using bioinformatics methods. Results SMO and GLI1 in mesothelioma tissues detected high concordance between the diagnostic results of mesothelioma biopsy specimens and plasma cavity effusion specimens. The expression levels of SMO and GLI1 protein and mRNA in mesothelioma tissues were higher than those in benign mesothelioma tissues. The expression levels of SMO and GLI1 protein were correlated with the age, site, and asbestos exposure history of patients with mesothelioma. The expression levels of SMO and GLI1 protein were correlated with the expressions of ki67 and p53 (P < 0.05). SMO and GLI1 gene expression levels were negatively correlated with good prognosis in mesothelioma patients (P < 0.05). Cox proportional risk model indicated that protein expressions of invasion, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, staging, and genes were independent prognostic factors of mesothelioma. The GEPIA database showed the overall survival rate and the disease-free survival rate of mesothelioma patients in the high SMO and GLI1 expression groups; the UALCAN database analysis showed lower SMO expression levels in mesothelioma patients with more pronounced TP53 mutations (P = 0.001); GLI1 gene expression levels were strongly correlated with lymph node metastasis in mesothelioma patients (P = 0.009). Timer database analysis showed that the mechanism of immune cell infiltration was closely related to SMO and GLI1 expression. The degree of immune cell infiltration was strongly correlated with the prognosis of mesothelioma patients (P < 0.05). Conclusion The expression levels of both SMO and GLI1 proteins were higher than those of normal mesothelial tissues, and the mRNA expression levels also changed in the same direction. SMO and GLI1 gene expressions in mesothelioma were negatively correlated with age, site of occurrence, and history of asbestos exposure. Positive expression of SMO and GLI1 was negatively correlated with patient survival. The Cox proportional risk model showed that gender, history of asbestos exposure, site of occurrence, SMO, and GLI1 were independent prognostic factors for mesothelioma. The mechanism of immune cell infiltration in mesothelioma is closely related to the gene expression of both and the survival prognosis of mesothelioma patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guan-Ying Ma
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei 067000, China
| | - Shuai Shi
- Department of Pathology, Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei 061000, China
| | - Yin-Zhou Sang
- Department of Pathology, Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei 061000, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Pathology, Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei 061000, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei 061000, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Xeroderma Pigmentosum C: A Valuable Tool to Decipher the Signaling Pathways in Skin Cancers. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:6689403. [PMID: 34630850 PMCID: PMC8495593 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6689403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare autosomal genodermatosis that manifests clinically with pronounced sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and the high probability of the occurrence of different skin cancer types in XP patients. XP is mainly caused by mutations in XP-genes that are involved in the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway that functions in the removal of bulky DNA adducts. Besides, the aggregation of DNA lesions is a life-threatening event that might be a key for developing various mutations facilitating cancer appearance. One of the key players of NER is XPC that senses helical distortions found in damaged DNA. The majority of XPC gene mutations are nonsense, and some are missense leading either to the loss of XPC protein or to the expression of a truncated nonfunctional version. Given that no cure is yet available, XPC patients should be completely protected and isolated from all types of UV radiations (UVR). Although it is still poorly understood, the characterization of the proteomic signature of an XPC mutant is essential to identify mediators that could be targeted to prevent cancer development in XPC patients. Unraveling this proteomic signature is fundamental to decipher the signaling pathways affected by the loss of XPC expression following exposure to UVB radiation. In this review, we will focus on the signaling pathways disrupted in skin cancer, pathways modulating NER's function, including XPC, to disclose signaling pathways associated with XPC loss and skin cancer occurrence.
Collapse
|
9
|
Patmanathan SN, Tong BT, Jackie Teo JH, Jonathan Ting YZ, Tan NS, Kenice Sim SH, Ta YC, Woo WM. A PDZ Protein GIPC3 Positively Modulates Hedgehog Signaling and Melanoma Growth. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 142:179-188.e4. [PMID: 34224745 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.04.033] [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] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh) pathway is essential for animal development but aberrant activation promotes cancer growth. Here we show that GIPC3, a PDZ domain-containing protein with putative adaptor protein function, positively modulates Hh target gene expression in normal fibroblasts and melanoma cells and supports melanoma tumor growth. Using overexpression and epistasis studies, we show that Gipc3 potentiates Hh transcriptional output and it modulates GLI-dependent transcription independently of Sufu. While we find GIPC3 protein does not interact with Hh pathway components, Ingenuity Pathway Analyses of GIPC3-interacting proteins identified by co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry show an association with cancer pathogenesis. Subsequent interrogation of TCGA and The Human Protein Atlas databases reveals GIPC3 upregulation in many cancers. Using expression screens in selected groups of GIPC3-upregulated cancers with reported Hh pathway activation, we find a significant positive correlation of GIPC3 expression with Hh pathway components GLI1, GLI2, and GPR161, in melanoma lines. Consistently, GIPC3 knockdown in melanoma lines significantly reduces GLI1 and GLI2 expression, cell viability, colony formation, and allograft tumor growth. Our findings highlight previously unidentified roles of Gipc3 in potentiating Hh response and melanoma tumorigenesis, and suggest that GIPC3 modulation on Hh signaling may be targeted to reduce melanoma growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bing Teck Tong
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Singapore Polytechnic, Singapore
| | - Jia Hao Jackie Teo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | | | - Nguan Soon Tan
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | | | - Yng-Cun Ta
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Wei-Meng Woo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zubčić V, Rinčić N, Kurtović M, Trnski D, Musani V, Ozretić P, Levanat S, Leović D, Sabol M. GANT61 and Lithium Chloride Inhibit the Growth of Head and Neck Cancer Cell Lines Through the Regulation of GLI3 Processing by GSK3β. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176410. [PMID: 32899202 PMCID: PMC7504345 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Several signaling pathways are aberrantly activated in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), including the Hedgehog-Gli (HH-GLI), WNT, EGFR, and NOTCH pathways. The HH-GLI pathway has mostly been investigated in the context of canonical signal transduction and the inhibition of the membrane components of the pathway. In this work we investigated the role of downstream inhibitors GANT61 and lithium chloride (LiCl) on cell viability, wound closure, and colony forming ability of HNSCC cell lines. Five HNSCC cell lines were treated with HH-GLI pathway inhibitors affecting different levels of signal transduction. GANT61 and LiCl reduce the proliferation and colony formation capabilities of HNSCC cell lines, and LiCl has an additional effect on wound closure. The major effector of the HH-GLI signaling pathway in HNSCC is the GLI3 protein, which is expressed in its full-length form and is functionally regulated by GSK3β. LiCl treatment increases the inhibitory Ser9 phosphorylation of the GSK3β protein, leading to increased processing of GLI3 from full-length to repressor form, thus inhibiting HH-GLI pathway activity. Therefore, downstream inhibition of HH-GLI signaling may be a promising therapeutic strategy for HNSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vedran Zubčić
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Osijek, Ulica Josipa Huttlera 4, Osijek 31000, Croatia;
- School of Medicine, The Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Trg Svetog Trojstva 3, Osijek 31000, Croatia
| | - Nikolina Rinčić
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, Zagreb 10000, Croatia; (N.R.); (M.K.); (D.T.); (V.M.); (P.O.); (S.L.)
| | - Matea Kurtović
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, Zagreb 10000, Croatia; (N.R.); (M.K.); (D.T.); (V.M.); (P.O.); (S.L.)
| | - Diana Trnski
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, Zagreb 10000, Croatia; (N.R.); (M.K.); (D.T.); (V.M.); (P.O.); (S.L.)
| | - Vesna Musani
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, Zagreb 10000, Croatia; (N.R.); (M.K.); (D.T.); (V.M.); (P.O.); (S.L.)
| | - Petar Ozretić
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, Zagreb 10000, Croatia; (N.R.); (M.K.); (D.T.); (V.M.); (P.O.); (S.L.)
| | - Sonja Levanat
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, Zagreb 10000, Croatia; (N.R.); (M.K.); (D.T.); (V.M.); (P.O.); (S.L.)
| | - Dinko Leović
- School of Medicine, The Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Trg Svetog Trojstva 3, Osijek 31000, Croatia
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, Clinical Hospital Centre Zagreb, Kišpatićeva ulica 12, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Correspondence: (D.L.); (M.S.); Tel.: +385-1-2388-888 (D.L.); +385-1-4560-997 (M.S.)
| | - Maja Sabol
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, Zagreb 10000, Croatia; (N.R.); (M.K.); (D.T.); (V.M.); (P.O.); (S.L.)
- Correspondence: (D.L.); (M.S.); Tel.: +385-1-2388-888 (D.L.); +385-1-4560-997 (M.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Loss of oral mucosal stem cell markers in oral submucous fibrosis and their reactivation in malignant transformation. Int J Oral Sci 2020; 12:23. [PMID: 32826859 PMCID: PMC7442837 DOI: 10.1038/s41368-020-00090-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The integrity of the basal stem cell layer is critical for epithelial homoeostasis. In this paper, we review the expression of oral mucosal stem cell markers (OM-SCMs) in oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) to understand the role of basal cells in potentiating cancer stem cell behaviour in OSF. While the loss of basal cell clonogenicity triggers epithelial atrophy in OSF, the transition of the epithelium from atrophic to hyperplastic and eventually neoplastic involves the reactivation of basal stemness. The vacillating expression patterns of OM-SCMs confirm the role of keratins 5, 14, 19, CD44, β1-integrin, p63, sex-determining region Y box (SOX2), octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct-4), c-MYC, B-cell-specific Moloney murine leukaemia virus integration site 1 (Bmi-1) and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) in OSF, OPMDs and OSCC. The downregulation of OM-SCMs in the atrophic epithelium of OSF and their upregulation during malignant transformation are illustrated with relevant literature in this review.
Collapse
|
12
|
Xiu D, Cheng M, Zhang W, Ma X, Liu L. Pseudomonas aeruginosa-mannose-sensitive hemagglutinin inhibits chemical-induced skin cancer through suppressing hedgehog signaling. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:213-220. [PMID: 31903775 DOI: 10.1177/1535370219897240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa-mannose-sensitive hemagglutinin (PAM) is an inactivate P. aeruginosa with mannose-sensitive hemagglutinin. Recently, the anticancer properties of PAM against many cancers have been reported across a range of studies. However, the exact mechanism through which PAM prevents skin cancer remains unclear. The aim of this study is to show to what extent PAM could inhibit the dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA)/12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced skin cancer. JB6 cells were treated by TPA so as to establish an in vitro model. The effects of PAM on proliferation of the cells were analyzed using cell counting kit-8 assays. Effects on epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) were assayed by real-time PCR and Western blotting. A DMBA/TPA-induced skin cancer mouse model was also established. The results showed that TPA promoted EMT changes through the activation of the hedgehog (Hh) pathway, which was reversed by PAM. Moreover, PAM inhibited the cancer growth and Hh pathway in vivo. These data indicate that PAM may serve as a potential anticancer agent for the treatment of skin cancer. Impact statement Pseudomonas aeruginosa-mannose-sensitive hemagglutinin (PAM) restrained the chemical-induced skin cancer cells in vitro and in vivo partly through suppressing the Hh signaling pathway, indicating that PAM may be a promising anticancer agent for treating skin cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dianhui Xiu
- Department of Radiology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Min Cheng
- Department of Radiology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Wenlei Zhang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 13021, China
| | - Xibo Ma
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jilin Province People's Hospital, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Radiology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pyczek J, Khizanishvili N, Kuzyakova M, Zabel S, Bauer J, Nitzki F, Emmert S, Schön MP, Boukamp P, Schildhaus HU, Uhmann A, Hahn H. Regulation and Role of GLI1 in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Pathogenesis. Front Genet 2019; 10:1185. [PMID: 31867038 PMCID: PMC6904360 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.01185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin tumor in humans. Although current therapies are sufficient to clear the tumor in many cases, the overall risk of cSCC metastasis is still 5%. Alternative treatment options could help to overcome this situation. Here we focused on the role of the Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway and its interplay with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling in cSCC. The analyses revealed that, despite lack of Sonic HH (SHH) expression, a subset of human cSCC can express GLI1, a marker for active HH signaling, within distinct tumor areas. In contrast, all tumors strongly express EGFR and the hair follicle stem cell marker SOX9 at the highly proliferative tumor-stroma interface, whereas central tumor regions with a more differentiated stratum spinosum cell type lack both EGFR and SOX9 expression. In vitro experiments indicate that activation of EGFR signaling in the human cSCC cell lines SCL-1, MET-1, and MET-4 leads to GLI1 inhibition via the MEK/ERK axis without affecting cellular proliferation. Of note, EGFR activation also inhibits cellular migration of SCL-1 and MET-4 cells. Because proliferation and migration of the cells is also not altered by a GLI1 knockdown, GLI1 is apparently not involved in processes of aggressiveness in established cSCC tumors. In contrast, our data rather suggest a negative correlation between Gli1 expression level and cSCC formation because skin of Ptch+/- mice with slightly elevated Gli1 expression levels is significantly less susceptible to chemically-induced cSCC formation compared to murine wildtype skin. Although not yet formally validated, these data open the possibility that GLI1 (and thus HH signaling) may antagonize cSCC initiation and is not involved in cSCC aggressiveness, at least in a subset of cSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Pyczek
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Natalia Khizanishvili
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Maria Kuzyakova
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Zabel
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Julia Bauer
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Frauke Nitzki
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Steffen Emmert
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Michael P Schön
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Petra Boukamp
- Division of Genetics of Skin Carcinogenesis, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Anja Uhmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Heidi Hahn
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Porcheri C, Meisel CT, Mitsiadis T. Multifactorial Contribution of Notch Signaling in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E1520. [PMID: 30917608 PMCID: PMC6471940 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20061520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) defines a group of solid tumors originating from the mucosa of the upper aerodigestive tract, pharynx, larynx, mouth, and nasal cavity. It has a metastatic evolution and poor prognosis and is the sixth most common cancer in the world, with 600,000 new cases reported every year. HNSCC heterogeneity and complexity is reflected in a multistep progression, involving crosstalk between several molecular pathways. The Notch pathway is associated with major events supporting cancerogenic evolution: cell proliferation, self-renewal, angiogenesis, and preservation of a pro-oncogenic microenvironment. Additionally, Notch is pivotal in tumor development and plays a dual role acting as both oncogene and tumor suppressor. In this review, we summarize the role of the Notch pathway in HNSCC, with a special focus on its compelling role in major events of tumor initiation and growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Porcheri
- University of Zurich, Institute of Oral Biology, Plattenstrasse 11, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Christian Thomas Meisel
- University of Zurich, Institute of Oral Biology, Plattenstrasse 11, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Thimios Mitsiadis
- University of Zurich, Institute of Oral Biology, Plattenstrasse 11, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rodrigues MFSD, Miguita L, De Andrade NP, Heguedusch D, Rodini CO, Moyses RA, Toporcov TN, Gama RR, Tajara EE, Nunes FD. GLI3 knockdown decreases stemness, cell proliferation and invasion in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Int J Oncol 2018; 53:2458-2472. [PMID: 30272273 PMCID: PMC6203148 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2018.4572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is an extremely aggressive disease associated with a poor prognosis. Previous studies have established that cancer stem cells (CSCs) actively participate in OSCC development, progression and resistance to conventional treatments. Furthermore, CSCs frequently exhibit a deregulated expression of normal stem cell signalling pathways, thereby acquiring their distinctive abilities, of which self-renewal is an example. In this study, we examined the effects of GLI3 knockdown in OSCC, as well as the differentially expressed genes in CSC-like cells (CSCLCs) expressing high (CD44high) or low (CD44low) levels of CD44. The prognostic value of GLI3 in OSCC was also evaluated. The OSCC cell lines were sorted based on CD44 expression; gene expression was evaluated using a PCR array. Following this, we examined the effects of GLI3 knockdown on CD44 and ESA expression, colony and sphere formation capability, stem-related gene expression, proliferation and invasion. The overexpression of genes related to the Notch, transforming growth factor (TGF)β, FGF, Hedgehog, Wnt and pluripotency maintenance pathways was observed in the CD44high cells. GLI3 knockdown was associated with a significant decrease in different CSCLC fractions, spheres and colonies in addition to the downregulation of the CD44, Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4; also known as POU5F1) and BMI1 genes. This downregulation was accompanied by an increase in the expression of the Involucrin (IVL) and S100A9 genes. Cellular proliferation and invasion were inhibited following GLI3 knockdown. In OSCC samples, a high GLI3 expression was associated with tumour size but not with prognosis. On the whole, the findings of this study demonstrate for the first time, at least to the best of our knowledge, that GLI3 contributes to OSCC stemness and malignant behaviour. These findings suggest the potential for the development of novel therapies, either in isolation or in combination with other drugs, based on CSCs in OSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucyene Miguita
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508000, Brazil
| | - Nathália Paiva De Andrade
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508000, Brazil
| | - Daniele Heguedusch
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508000, Brazil
| | | | - Raquel Ajub Moyses
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03178200, Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo Ribeiro Gama
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos 014784400, Brazil
| | - Eloiza Elena Tajara
- Department of Molecular Biology, School of Medicine of São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto 15090000, Brazil
| | - Fabio Daumas Nunes
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508000, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Radiation Sensitization of Basal Cell and Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma by the Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitor Vismodegib. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092485. [PMID: 30142876 PMCID: PMC6164565 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Vismodegib, an inhibitor of the Hedgehog signaling pathway, is an approved drug for monotherapy in locally advanced or metastatic basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Data on combined modality treatment by vismodegib and radiation therapy, however, are rare. In the present study, we examined the radiation sensitizing effects of vismodegib by analyzing viability, cell cycle distribution, cell death, DNA damage repair and clonogenic survival in three-dimensional cultures of a BCC and a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell line. We found that vismodegib decreases expression of the Hedgehog target genes glioma-associated oncogene homologue (GLI1) and the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) Survivin in a cell line- and irradiation-dependent manner, most pronounced in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells. Furthermore, vismodegib significantly reduced proliferation in both cell lines, while additional irradiation only slightly further impacted on viability. Analyses of cell cycle distribution and cell death induction indicated a G1 arrest in BCC and a G2 arrest in HNSCC cells and an increased fraction of cells in SubG1 phase following combined treatment. Moreover, a significant rise in the number of phosphorylated histone-2AX/p53-binding protein 1 (γH2AX/53BP1) foci in vismodegib- and radiation-treated cells was associated with a significant radiosensitization of both cell lines. In summary, these findings indicate that inhibition of the Hedgehog signaling pathway may increase cellular radiation response in BCC and HNSCC cells.
Collapse
|
17
|
Hollern DP, Swiatnicki MR, Andrechek ER. Histological subtypes of mouse mammary tumors reveal conserved relationships to human cancers. PLoS Genet 2018; 14:e1007135. [PMID: 29346386 PMCID: PMC5773092 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Human breast cancer has been characterized by extensive transcriptional heterogeneity, with dominant patterns reflected in the intrinsic subtypes. Mouse models of breast cancer also have heterogeneous transcriptomes and we noted that specific histological subtypes were associated with particular subsets. We hypothesized that unique sets of genes define each tumor histological type across mouse models of breast cancer. Using mouse models that contained both gene expression data and expert pathologist classification of tumor histology on a sample by sample basis, we predicted and validated gene expression signatures for Papillary, EMT, Microacinar and other histological subtypes. These signatures predict known histological events across murine breast cancer models and identify counterparts of mouse mammary tumor types in subtypes of human breast cancer. Importantly, the EMT, Adenomyoepithelial, and Solid signatures were predictive of clinical events in human breast cancer. In addition, a pan-cancer comparison revealed that the histological signatures were active in a variety of human cancers such as lung, oral, and esophageal squamous tumors. Finally, the differentiation status and transcriptional activity implicit within these signatures was identified. These data reveal that within tumor histology groups are unique gene expression profiles of differentiation and pathway activity that stretch well beyond the transgenic initiating events and that have clear applicability to human cancers. As a result, our work provides a predictive resource and insights into possible mechanisms that govern tumor heterogeneity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P. Hollern
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Matthew R. Swiatnicki
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| | - Eran R. Andrechek
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Anticancer drugs and the regulation of Hedgehog genes GLI1 and PTCH1, a comparative study in nonmelanoma skin cancer cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 2017; 28:1106-1117. [DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
|
19
|
Nayak A, Siddharth S, Das S, Nayak D, Sethy C, Kundu CN. Nanoquinacrine caused apoptosis in oral cancer stem cells by disrupting the interaction between GLI1 and β catenin through activation of GSK3β. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2017; 330:53-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
|
20
|
Positive regulatory interactions between YAP and Hedgehog signalling in skin homeostasis and BCC development in mouse skin in vivo. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183178. [PMID: 28820907 PMCID: PMC5562304 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin is a highly plastic tissue that undergoes tissue turnover throughout life, but also in response to injury. YAP and Hedgehog signalling play a central role in the control of epidermal stem/progenitor cells in the skin during embryonic development, in postnatal tissue homeostasis and in skin carcinogenesis. However, the genetic contexts in which they act to control tissue homeostasis remain mostly unresolved. We provide compelling evidence that epidermal YAP and Hedgehog/GLI2 signalling undergo positive regulatory interactions in the control of normal epidermal homeostasis and in basal cell carcinoma (BCC) development, which in the large majority of cases is caused by aberrant Hedgehog signalling activity. We report increased nuclear YAP and GLI2 activity in the epidermis and BCCs of K14-CreER/Rosa-SmoM2 transgenic mouse skin, accompanied with increased ROCK signalling and ECM remodelling. Furthermore, we found that epidermal YAP activity drives GLI2 nuclear accumulation in the skin of YAP2-5SA-ΔC mice, which depends on epidermal β-catenin activation. Lastly, we found prominent nuclear activity of GLI2, YAP and β-catenin, concomitant with increased ROCK signalling and stromal fibrosis in human BCC. Our work provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the interplay between cell signalling events and mechanical force in normal tissue homeostasis in vivo, that could potentially be perturbed in BCC development.
Collapse
|
21
|
Comparative Analysis of Mutational Profile of Sonic hedgehog Gene in Gallbladder Cancer. Dig Dis Sci 2017; 62:708-714. [PMID: 28058596 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-016-4438-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gallbladder cancer has high incidence in northeastern India; mortality too is high as the disease is often diagnosed late. Numerous studies have shown the role of sonic hedgehog (shh) in different cancers, an important ligand of the hedgehog signaling pathway. AIM This study was carried out to evaluate the shh gene mutations in gallbladder cancer patients. METHODS PCR-SSCP was performed for shh gene in 50 samples each of gallbladder cancer, cholelithiasis, and control. The samples showing aberration in banding pattern were sequenced. RESULTS Variation in banding pattern was observed in 20% gallbladder cancer cases, 10% in cholelithiasis, and none of the control (χ 2 = 11.111; p < 0.05). Sequencing results revealed seven novel point mutations in GBC cases. These novel mutations were found to be associated with histopathology (p < 0.05) and stage (p < 0.05) of gallbladder cancer. CONCLUSION This study reveals several novel individual and repetitive mutations of shh gene in GBC and cholelithiasis samples that may be used as diagnostic markers for gallbladder carcinogenesis.
Collapse
|
22
|
Vand-Rajabpour F, Sadeghipour N, Saee-Rad S, Fathi H, Noormohammadpour P, Yaseri M, Hesari KK, Bagherpour Z, Tabrizi M. Differential BMI1, TWIST1, SNAI2 mRNA expression pattern correlation with malignancy type in a spectrum of common cutaneous malignancies: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Clin Transl Oncol 2016; 19:489-497. [PMID: 27718152 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-016-1555-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) can be used as a unique model to identify molecular mechanisms to distinguish rarely metastatic (BCC), often metastatic (SCC) and most metastatic (melanoma) cancer. It is known that epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stemness transcription factors (TWIST1, SNAI2/SLUG, and BMI1) play an important role in metastasis and their dysregulation has been demonstrated in metastatic cancers. We hypothesized that this spectrum of cutaneous cancers (BCC, SCC, and melanoma) would be a unique cancer model system to elucidate steps toward cancer invasion and metastasis. METHODS We evaluated the mRNA expression level of BMI1, TWIST1, and SNAI2/SLUG and studied clinicopathological features in 170 skin cancers along with normal tissue samples. RESULTS We demonstrate downregulation of BMI1 mRNA expression in BCC samples compared with controls (p = 0.0001), SCC (p = 0.001), and melanoma (p = 0.0001) samples. Downregulation of TWIST1 mRNA expression is seen in only BCC samples compared with controls (p = 0.031). High SNAI2 mRNA expression is represented in melanoma samples compared with controls (p = 0.022) and SCC samples (p = 0.031). High mRNA expression of TWIST1 is seen in patients with positive history of cancers. Extremely low mRNA expression of BMI1 is detected in patients with positive history of cancers other than skin cancer. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide support for the hypothesis that the spectrum of cutaneous cancers could be better understood as a series of gene dosage-dependent entities with distinct molecular events. Oncogene-induced senescence, mechanism of which is still unclear, could be one explanation for these results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Vand-Rajabpour
- Medical Genetics Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 14155-6447, Tehran, 14176-13151, Iran
| | - N Sadeghipour
- Medical Genetics Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 14155-6447, Tehran, 14176-13151, Iran
| | - S Saee-Rad
- Dietary Supplements and Probiotic Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - H Fathi
- Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Department, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Tumor Clinic, Pathology Department and the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Razi Dermatology Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - P Noormohammadpour
- Tumor Clinic, Pathology Department and the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Razi Dermatology Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Yaseri
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - K K Hesari
- Tumor Clinic, Pathology Department and the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Razi Dermatology Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Z Bagherpour
- Medical Genetics Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 14155-6447, Tehran, 14176-13151, Iran
| | - M Tabrizi
- Medical Genetics Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 14155-6447, Tehran, 14176-13151, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Dias RB, Valverde LDF, Sales CBS, Guimarães VSN, Cabral MG, de Aquino Xavier FC, dos Santos JN, Ramos EAG, Gurgel Rocha CA. Enhanced Expression of Hedgehog Pathway Proteins in Oral Epithelial Dysplasia. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2016; 24:595-602. [DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000000225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
24
|
Paluszczak J, Wiśniewska D, Kostrzewska-Poczekaj M, Kiwerska K, Grénman R, Mielcarek-Kuchta D, Jarmuż-Szymczak M. Prognostic significance of the methylation of Wnt pathway antagonists-CXXC4, DACT2, and the inhibitors of sonic hedgehog signaling-ZIC1, ZIC4, and HHIP in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Clin Oral Investig 2016; 21:1777-1788. [PMID: 27553089 PMCID: PMC5442212 DOI: 10.1007/s00784-016-1946-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Aberrations in Wnt and Shh signaling pathways are related to the pathogenesis of head and neck carcinomas, and their activation frequently results from epigenetic alterations. This study aimed to assess the frequency of methylation of negative regulators of Wnt signaling: CXXC4, DACT2, HDPR1, and FBXW11 and Shh signaling: HHIP, PTCH1, SUFU, ZIC1, and ZIC4 and correlate it with clinicopathological features in this group of patients. Materials and methods Methylation-specific PCR was used to detect gene promoter methylation, and real-time PCR was used to assess gene expression level. Results The analysis of the occurrence of gene promoter methylation in head and neck carcinoma cell lines indicated that CXXC4, DACT2, HHIP, ZIC1, and ZIC4 are methylated in these tumors. These genes were further analyzed in tumor sections from oral and laryngeal cancer patients. Gene methylation rate was higher in laryngeal tumors. The methylation index in tumor samples correlated with the overall survival in a subgroup of oral cancer patients who died of the disease. Moreover, ZIC4 methylation correlated with lymph node involvement in oral cancer patients. Conclusions Our findings corroborate that the activation of Wnt signaling in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is related to epigenetic silencing of its negative regulators. Moreover, the results indicate that the same mechanism of activation may operate in the case of Shh signaling. Clinical relevance The methylation of ZIC4 may be considered a new prognostic marker in oral cavity and oropharyngeal tumors. Further investigations should determine the diagnostic significance of methylation of ZIC4, HHIP, and DACT2 in head and neck carcinomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jarosław Paluszczak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, ul. Święcickiego 4, 60-781, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Dorota Wiśniewska
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, ul. Święcickiego 4, 60-781, Poznań, Poland
| | | | - Katarzyna Kiwerska
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Reidar Grénman
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and Department of Medical Biochemistry, Turku University Central Hospital and Turku University, Turku, Finland
| | - Daniela Mielcarek-Kuchta
- Department of Otolaryngology and Laryngological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Celebi ARC, Kiratli H, Soylemezoglu F. Evaluation of the 'Hedgehog' signaling pathways in squamous and basal cell carcinomas of the eyelids and conjunctiva. Oncol Lett 2016; 12:467-472. [PMID: 27347166 PMCID: PMC4907170 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.4625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to assess the role of hedgehog signaling pathway in the carcinogenesis of eyelid skin and conjunctival epithelial malignant tumors. The study was conducted on specimens from 41 patients with cutaneous eyelid basal cell carcinoma, 22 with bulbar conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma, 12 with bulbar conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia. Major molecules of Hedgehog signaling pathway (Sonic Hedgehog [Shh] and Patched-1 [Ptch-1] and Glioma-associated oncogene [Gli-1]) were evaluated in paraffin-embedded tissue specimens using immunohistochemical staining. For each specimen, the percentage (<10%, 10–50%, >50%) and the intensity of the immunohistochemical staining (graded from 0 to 3) were calculated and the scores obtained by multiplication of two values were analyzed using the Kruskall-Wallis test. Shh and Ptch-1 expression levels were statistically significantly lower in the basal cell carcinoma group compared with the squamous cell carcinoma group (P=0.043 for Shh; P=0.030 for Ptch-1). In the conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma group, the Ptch-1 score was 0 in ~25% of specimens and the Gli-1 score was ≤2 in ~45% of cases. In the conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia group, the Ptch-1 score was ≥2 in 66% of specimens, the Gli-1 score was ≤2 in ~92% of cases. Ptch-1 mutations contribute to the development of cutaneous eyelid basal cell carcinoma. The present study provides evidence that alterations in hedgehog signaling pathways may lead to transformation of the conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia into invasive squamous cell carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Riza Cenk Celebi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Acibadem University School of Medicine, 34303 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hayyam Kiratli
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, 06100 Ankara, Turkey
| | - Figen Soylemezoglu
- Department of Pathology, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, 06100 Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Brennan-Crispi DM, Hossain C, Sahu J, Brady M, Riobo NA, Mahoney MG. Crosstalk between Desmoglein 2 and Patched 1 accelerates chemical-induced skin tumorigenesis. Oncotarget 2016; 6:8593-605. [PMID: 25871385 PMCID: PMC4496169 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is causative of BCCs and has been associated with a fraction of SCCs. Desmoglein 2 (Dsg2) is an adhesion protein that is upregulated in many cancers and overexpression of Dsg2 in the epidermis renders mice more susceptible to squamous-derived neoplasia. Here we examined a potential crosstalk between Dsg2 and Hh signaling in skin tumorigenesis. Our findings show that Dsg2 modulates Gli1 expression, in vitro and in vivo. Ectopic expression of Dsg2 on Ptc1(+/lacZ) background enhanced epidermal proliferation and interfollicular activation of the Hh pathway. Furthermore, in response to DMBA/TPA, the Dsg2/Ptc1+/lacZ mice developed squamous lessons earlier than the WT, Ptc1(+/lacZ), and Inv-Dsg2 littermates. Additionally, DMBA/TPA induced BCC formation in all mice harboring the Ptc1(+/lacZ) gene and the presence of Dsg2 in Dsg2/Ptc1(+/lacZ) mice doubled the BCC tumor burden. Reporter analysis revealed activation of the Hh pathway in the BCC tumors. However, in the SCCs we observed Hh activity only in the underlying dermis of the tumors. Furthermore, Dsg2/Ptc1(+/lacZ) mice demonstrated enhanced MEK/Erk1/2 activation within the tumors and expression of Shh in the dermis. In summary, our results demonstrate that Dsg2 modulates Hh signaling, and this synergy may accelerate skin tumor development by different mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donna M Brennan-Crispi
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Claudia Hossain
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joya Sahu
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mary Brady
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Natalia A Riobo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mỹ G Mahoney
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Srinath S, Iyengar AR, Mysorekar V. Sonic hedgehog in oral squamous cell carcinoma: An immunohistochemical study. J Oral Maxillofac Pathol 2016; 20:377-383. [PMID: 27721600 PMCID: PMC5051283 DOI: 10.4103/0973-029x.190906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have revealed the involvement of hedgehog (Hh) signaling component in proliferation and invasive behavior of many carcinomas. AIM This study aims to identify the expression of sonic Hh (SHH) protein of SHH pathway in oral epithelial dysplasia and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) using SHH (H-160) (Santa Cruz, sc-9042) which could have therapeutic implication in future. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 250 cases comprising 50 normal oral mucosa, 50 cases of oral epithelial dysplasia, 50 well, 50 moderate and 50 poorly differentiated OSCCs were included in the study. Immunohistochemical evaluation of SHH protein expression was conducted using monoclonal antibody. Interpretation of the expression was done by immunoreactive score of Remmele and Stegner (IRS) scoring method. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Chi-Square test was used to analyze the results. RESULTS The study showed that SHH signaling molecules are highly expressed in OSCC, and their expression was mainly in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells. CONCLUSION The SHH signaling component is associated with the pathological parameter in OSCC and oral epithelial dysplasia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sahana Srinath
- Department of Oral Pathology, GDCRI, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Asha R Iyengar
- Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, DAPMRV, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Haymerle G, Schneider S, Harris L, Häupl T, Schopper C, Pammer J, Grasl MC, Erovic BM. Minor salivary gland carcinoma: a review of 35 cases. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2015; 273:2717-26. [DOI: 10.1007/s00405-015-3805-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
29
|
Gonzalez AC, Ferreira M, Ariel T, Reis SR, Andrade Z, Peixoto Medrado A. Immunohistochemical evaluation of hedgehog signalling in epithelial/mesenchymal interactions in squamous cell carcinoma transformation: a pilot study. J Oral Pathol Med 2015; 45:173-9. [PMID: 26947270 DOI: 10.1111/jop.12346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Precancerous lesions have been studied because of their carcinogenic potential and their association with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) has been reported. In the tumour microenvironment, the processes of angiogenesis and tissue remodelling are regulated by a family of proteins (Hedgehog) described as being able to modulate epithelial/mesenchymal interactions. The objective of this study was to perform a comparative study of precancerous lesions and SCCs by immunohistochemistry for the presence of Sonic, Gli2, SMO and Patched proteins, members of the Hedgehog pathway. Sixteen cases diagnosed as actinic cheilitis associated with SCC were compared to normal oral mucosa. The sections were subjected to immunohistochemistry and the positively stained cells were counted by morphometric analysis. There was a significant progressive increase in expression of all proteins of the Hedgehog pathway, both in the epithelium and in the connective tissue, when sections of normal mucosa, dysplasia and carcinoma were compared (P < 0.05). Thus, one may suggest that the Hedgehog pathway in tumour transformation influences SCC, and more studies should be conducted to expand the understanding of the role of these proteins in neoplastic transformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cristina Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Maira Ferreira
- Basic Science, Bahiana Schoool of Medicine and Public Health, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Tamires Ariel
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Sílvia Regina Reis
- Basic Science, Bahiana Schoool of Medicine and Public Health, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Zilton Andrade
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Alena Peixoto Medrado
- Basic Science, Bahiana Schoool of Medicine and Public Health, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lubinsky M. Sonic Hedgehog, VACTERL, and Fanconi anemia: Pathogenetic connections and therapeutic implications. Am J Med Genet A 2015. [PMID: 26198446 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.37257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Three systems with VACTERL association findings- mutations of the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway in mice, murine adriamycin teratogenicity, and human Fanconi anemia (FA) pathway mutations, may all involve a similar mechanism. SHH is up-regulated in irradiated cells, and DNA breaks common with radiation damage in the adriamycin and FA systems are plausible signals for such effects, which would affect development. Since FA related DNA breakage occurs throughout life, SHH disturbances may account for later FA related findings involving hematopoietic and malignancy issues. In support, androgen, a standard treatment for FA hematologic failure, down-regulates SHH, and common FA malignancies such as squamous cell carcinomas and acute myeloid leukemia have been linked to enhanced SHH function. This suggests that interventions lowering SHH levels may be useful therapeutically. Also supporting a connection between pre- and post- natal findings, the frequency and number of VACTERL anomalies with FA correlate with the severity and onset of hematopoietic and malignancy issues. In FA, radial anomalies are the most common of these defects, followed by renal findings, while vertebral and gastrointestinal anomalies are relatively uncommon, a pattern that differs from observations of the VACTERL association. Genes with more severe effects also show a greatly increased incidence of brain abnormalities, and a paucity of such findings with other FA genes suggests that brain development is relatively refractory to SHH related effects, accounting for the rarity of such findings with the association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Lubinsky
- 6003 W. Washington Blvd., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, 53213
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bakry OA, Samaka RM, Shoeib MAM, Megahed DM. Immunolocalization of glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 in non melanoma skin cancer. Ultrastruct Pathol 2014; 39:135-46. [PMID: 25350271 DOI: 10.3109/01913123.2014.970723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Glioma-associated oncogene homolog (GLI)1 is involved in controlling cell proliferation and angiogenesis. The aim of this work was to explore its possible role in non-melanoma skin cancer pathogenesis through its immunohistochemical (IHC) expression in skin biopsies of these diseases and correlating this expression with the clinico-pathological parameters of the studied cases. Seventy-six cutaneous specimens were studied; 30 cases with basal cell carcinoma (BCC), 30 cases with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and 16 normal skin samples, from age- and gender-matched subjects, as a control group. GLI1 was expressed in all BCC cases and in 60% of SCC cases. All SCC cases showed cytoplasmic, while 70% of BCC cases showed nucleocytoplasmic immunoreactivity. It was over expressed in BCC and SCC compared to normal skin (p = 0.01 and 0.0006, respectively). Higher Histo (H) score in BCC cases was significantly associated with female gender (p = 0.04), multiple lesions, desmoplastic stromal reaction and stromal angiogenesis (p < 0.001 for all). Higher H score in SCC cases was significantly associated with scalp location, nodular type, recurrent lesions, high tumor grade, lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.004 for all), inflammatory stromal reaction (p = 0.01), lymph node involvement and absence of calcification (p = 0.001 for both). In conclusion, GLI1 may play a role in BCC pathogenesis through its role in cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. Its upregulation and cytoplasmic localization in SCC may suggest that its role in tumor pathogenesis is through mechanisms other than Hedgehog pathway activation. Further studies are needed to clarify the exact molecular basis of its oncogenic action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ola Ahmed Bakry
- Department of Dermatology, Andrology and STDs, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufiya University , Shibeen El Kom , Egypt and
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Hong Z, Bi A, Chen D, Gao L, Yin Z, Luo L. Activation of hedgehog signaling pathway in human non-small cell lung cancers. Pathol Oncol Res 2014; 20:917-22. [PMID: 24710823 DOI: 10.1007/s12253-014-9774-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The activation of the hedgehog pathway, which is an important signaling mechanism crucial in embryogenesis, has strong links to carcinogenesis. Aberrant regulation of this pathway can result in the development of tumors. The present study was designed to investigate Hh related protein expression in non-small cell lung cancers. Fifty five non-small cell lung cancers samples were used in the study. By reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), the expression of Shh, Ptch-1, and Gli-1 in tumor and adjacent normal tissues was examined and associated to clinical pathologic features. The expression levels of Shh, Ptch-1, Gli-1 in non-small cell lung cancer tissues were 63.64, 69.09, 43.64 %, respectively, higher than that in the adjacent normal tissues. Survival analysis showed that both Ptch-1 and Gli-1 expression were associated with poor survival (both P <0.05, log-rank test). Shh and Ptch-1 expression were correlated with lymph node metastasis. These results suggest that dysregulation of Hh signaling pathway plays an important role in the development of human NSCLCs. The expression of Ptch-1 and Gli-1 is possibly involved in NSCLCs progression, which may be a useful prognostic indicator of NSCLCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuan Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, 210093, Poeple's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Stoehr M, Mozet C, Boehm A, Aigner A, Dietz A, Wichmann G. Simvastatin suppresses head and neck squamous cell carcinoma ex vivo and enhances the cytostatic effects of chemotherapeutics. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2014; 73:827-37. [DOI: 10.1007/s00280-014-2412-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
34
|
Jung GW, Dover DC, Salopek TG. Risk of second primary malignancies following a diagnosis of cutaneous malignant melanoma or nonmelanoma skin cancer in Alberta, Canada from 1979 to 2009. Br J Dermatol 2014; 170:136-43. [PMID: 24443913 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.12694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have revealed geographical variations with respect to the risk of second primary malignancies (SPMs) following cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) and nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). OBJECTIVES To provide the largest analysis of the risk of SPM following skin cancers in Canada and to detect associations that may shed light on common pathogeneses between linked malignancies. METHODS Relative risks for development of SPMs following a diagnosis of CMM or NMSC were calculated via a retrospective analysis of data retrieved from the Alberta Cancer Registry (ACR) from 1979 to 2009. RESULTS From 1979 to 2009, 85,967 NMSC and 6884 CMM incident cases were recorded in the ACR. In total 19,869 SPMs were identified following a primary NMSC (7709 cutaneous and 12,160 noncutaneous), while 1437 SPMs (908 cutaneous and 529 noncutaneous) followed CMM. Patients with a previous history of skin cancer had a 60% increased risk of developing an SPM compared with those without [observed/expected ratio (O/E) 1.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.6-1.7; P < 0.001]. Thirty and 10 different SPMs were significantly identified to follow a diagnosis of NMSC and CMM, respectively. Patients under the age of 40 years with a prior history of CMM had a marked increased expectancy for SPM [O/E 5.6, 95% CI 4.5-7.0; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Further studies are warranted to identify environmental and molecular connections among linked cutaneous and noncutaneous malignancies, which may lead to earlier detection of related neoplasms via expanded screening protocols and development of shared treatment regimens. Heightened surveillance for the development of SPMs in patients with CMM under the age of 40 years should be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G W Jung
- Division of Dermatology and Cutaneous Sciences, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Identification and validation of a multigene predictor of recurrence in primary laryngeal cancer. PLoS One 2013; 8:e70429. [PMID: 23950933 PMCID: PMC3739775 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0070429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Local recurrence is the major manifestation of treatment failure in patients with operable laryngeal carcinoma. Established clinicopathological factors cannot sufficiently predict patients that are likely to recur after treatment. Additional tools are therefore required to accurately identify patients at high risk for recurrence. This study attempts to identify and independently validate gene expression models, prognostic of disease-free survival (DFS) in operable laryngeal cancer. Materials and Methods Using Affymetrix U133A Genechips, we profiled fresh-frozen tumor tissues from 66 patients with laryngeal cancer treated locally with surgery. We applied Cox regression proportional hazards modeling to identify multigene predictors of recurrence. Gene models were then validated in two independent cohorts of 54 and 187 patients (fresh-frozen and formalin-fixed tissue validation sets, respectively). Results We focused on genes univariately associated with DFS (p<0.01) in the training set. Among several models comprising different numbers of genes, a 30-probe set model demonstrated optimal performance in both the training (log-rank, p<0.001) and 1st validation (p = 0.010) sets. Specifically, in the 1st validation set, median DFS as predicted by the 30-probe set model, was 34 and 80 months for high- and low-risk patients, respectively. Hazard ratio (HR) for recurrence in the high-risk group was 3.87 (95% CI 1.28–11.73, Wald's p = 0.017). Testing the expression of selected genes from the above model in the 2nd validation set, with qPCR, revealed significant associations of single markers, such as ACE2, FLOT1 and PRKD1, with patient DFS. High PRKD1 remained an unfavorable prognostic marker upon multivariate analysis (HR = 2.00, 95% CI 1.28–3.14, p = 0.002) along with positive nodal status. Conclusions We have established and validated gene models that can successfully stratify patients with laryngeal cancer, based on their risk for recurrence. It seems worthy to prospectively validate PRKD1 expression as a laryngeal cancer prognostic marker, for routine clinical applications.
Collapse
|
36
|
Kim JE, Kim H, Choe JY, Sun P, Jheon S, Chung JH. High expression of Sonic hedgehog signaling proteins is related to the favorable outcome, EGFR mutation, and lepidic predominant subtype in primary lung adenocarcinoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2013; 20 Suppl 3:S570-6. [PMID: 23709101 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-013-3022-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysregulation of the Sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway has been identified in many human malignancies. However, it remains unclear whether this pathway is activated in human lung adenocarcinoma. METHODS We investigated the expression of the SHH ligand and its downstream molecules, such as glioma-associated oncogene homologue (GLI)-1, GLI-2, GLI-3, and ATP-binding cassette G2 (ABCG2), in 166 cases of surgically resected lung adenocarcinoma by immunohistochemistry. Correlations between the expression of SHH-related proteins and clinicopathologic parameters, histologic subtypes, and prognostic significance were statistically analyzed. RESULTS SHH was highly expressed in the 36.1 % (60/166), GLI-1, GLI-2, and ABCG2 were found in 90/164 (54.9 %), 26/166 (15.7 %), and 139/165 (84.2 %), respectively, and GLI-3 was positive in all cases. SHH was more frequently highly expressed in nonsmokers, patients with no recurrences, lepidic predominant subtype, and with EGFR mutation (p < 0.05, respectively). The high expression of SHH and GLI-1 was related to better overall survival and progression-free survival (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The SHH signaling pathway is frequently up-regulated in a subset of lung adenocarcinoma and is significantly associated with EGFR mutation and lepidic subtype. Although SHH signaling protein expression is not an independent prognostic marker, the expression of these proteins can predict a better prognostic outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji Eun Kim
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, 463-707, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Dimitrova K, Stoehr M, Dehghani F, Dietz A, Wichmann G, Bertolini J, Mozet C. Overexpression of the Hedgehog signalling pathway in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 36:279-86. [PMID: 23689223 DOI: 10.1159/000350322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overexpression of the Hedgehog (HH) signalling pathway has been described in several malignancies and is associated with a poor prognosis. HH signalling blockade reduces tumour growth in vitro and in vivo. We aimed to determine whether head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) express HH proteins in comparison to healthy mucosa. PATIENTS AND METHODS Formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue sections of 10 patients with HNSCC were stained with fluorescence-labelled antibodies for cytokeratin and HH proteins (SHH, PTCH1/2, SMO, Gli1-3) and photographs were taken with a laser scanning microscope. The pixel count and colour intensity were analysed in RGB (red/green/blue) colour mode, and expression levels were compared to healthy mucosa. RESULTS Image analysis in RGB mode provided objective evidence for the over-expression of HH signalling components in HNSCC, particularly with regard to the transcription factors Gli1 (10-fold) and SHH (5-fold) in comparison with healthy mucosa. The lowest levels were found for Gli3 in HNSCC. CONCLUSIONS We postulate pivotal roles of Gli1 and SHH expression in the carcinogenesis of HNSCC. HH pathway overexpression appears to be involved in the initiation of tumour growth and spread due to its stem cell-modulating properties. Detection of HH pathway components, and especially Gli1 and SHH, in HNSCC might offer a promising target for further anticancer research in HNSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamelia Dimitrova
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Leipzig, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Savani M, Guo Y, Carbone DP, Csiki I. Sonic hedgehog pathway expression in non-small cell lung cancer. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2012; 4:225-33. [PMID: 22942905 DOI: 10.1177/1758834012450362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Activation of the hedgehog pathway is an important signaling mechanism crucial in embryogenesis and has strong links to carcinogenesis. This study investigates the expression of the Sonic hedgehog pathway molecules in non-small cell lung tumors as it relates to clinical outcome of various non-small cell lung cancers. METHODS A tissue microarray with 81 samples from 42 patients with various non-small cell lung cancer histologies was examined without the aid of laser microdissection. All samples were stained with antibodies directed against Sonic hedgehog, Ptch-1, Smoothened, and Gli-1. RESULTS Most of the tumor samples showed negative to weak expression of the pathway proteins (Sonic hedgehog, 38% negative to 20% weak; Ptch-1, 100% negative; Smoothened, 69% negative to 7% weak; Gli-1, 57% negative to 5% weak) compared with higher expression in normal lung epithelial cells. CONCLUSION The same pathway expression did not correlate with clinical outcome. While our results do not provide any indication that the pathway molecules are correlated to overall patient survival possibly due to the limited sample size, our study shows minimum overexpression of Sonic hedgehog pathway in non-small cell lung cancer and this did not correlate clinically with patient outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malvi Savani
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Fountzilas E, Markou K, Vlachtsis K, Nikolaou A, Arapantoni-Dadioti P, Ntoula E, Tassopoulos G, Bobos M, Konstantinopoulos P, Fountzilas G, Spentzos D. Identification and validation of gene expression models that predict clinical outcome in patients with early-stage laryngeal cancer. Ann Oncol 2012; 23:2146-2153. [PMID: 22219018 PMCID: PMC3493135 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdr576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2011] [Revised: 10/16/2011] [Accepted: 11/07/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite improvement in therapeutic techniques, patients with early-stage laryngeal cancer still recur after treatment. Gene expression prognostic models could suggest which of these patients would be more appropriate for testing adjuvant strategies. MATERIALS AND METHODS Expression profiling using whole-genome DASL arrays was carried out on 56 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor samples of patients with early-stage laryngeal cancer. We split the samples into a training and a validation set. Using the supervised principal components survival analysis in the first cohort, we identified gene expression profiles that predict the risk of recurrence. These profiles were then validated in an independent cohort. RESULTS Gene models comprising different number of genes identified a subgroup of patients who were at high risk of recurrence. Of these, the best prognostic model distinguished between a high- and a low-risk group (log-rank P<0.005). The prognostic value of this model was reproduced in the validation cohort (median disease-free survival: 38 versus 161 months, log-rank P=0.018), hazard ratio=5.19 (95% confidence interval 1.14-23.57, P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS We have identified gene expression prognostic models that can refine the estimation of a patient's risk of recurrence. These findings, if further validated, should aid in patient stratification for testing adjuvant treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Fountzilas
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - K Markou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, "AHEPA" Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki School of Medicine, Thessaloniki
| | - K Vlachtsis
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, "AHEPA" Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki School of Medicine, Thessaloniki
| | - A Nikolaou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, "AHEPA" Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki School of Medicine, Thessaloniki
| | | | | | - G Tassopoulos
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, "Metaxa" Cancer Hospital, Piraeus
| | - M Bobos
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Hellenic Foundation for Cancer Research, Thessaloniki
| | - P Konstantinopoulos
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - G Fountzilas
- Department of Medical Oncology, "Papageorgiou" Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki School of Medicine, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - D Spentzos
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Honami T, Shimo T, Okui T, Kurio N, Hassan NMM, Iwamoto M, Sasaki A. Sonic hedgehog signaling promotes growth of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells associated with bone destruction. Oral Oncol 2012; 48:49-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2011.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2011] [Revised: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
|
41
|
Abstract
An increasing progress on the role of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling for carcinogenesis has been achieved since the link of Hh pathway to human cancer was firstly established. In particular, the critical role of Hh signaling in the development of Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) has been convincingly demonstrated by genetic mutation analyses, mouse models of BCCs, and successful clinical trials of BCCs using Hh signaling inhibitors. In addition, the Hh pathway activity is also reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), melanoma and Merkel Cell Carcinoma. These findings have significant new paradigm on Hh signaling transduction, its mechanisms in skin cancer and even therapeutic approaches for BCC. In this review, we will summarize the major advances in the understanding of Hh signaling transduction, the roles of Hh signaling in skin cancer development, and the current implications of "mechanism-based" therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chengxin Li
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Sumin Chi
- Department of Physiology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Jingwu Xie
- Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University Simon Cancer Center, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Cavicchioli Buim ME, Gurgel CAS, Gonçalves Ramos EA, Lourenço SV, Soares FA. Activation of sonic hedgehog signaling in oral squamous cell carcinomas: a preliminary study. Hum Pathol 2011; 42:1484-90. [PMID: 21496866 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2010.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2010] [Revised: 12/12/2010] [Accepted: 12/21/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog signaling is important for human development, and aberrant regulation of this pathway can result in the development of tumors. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of sonic hedgehog signaling molecules in oral squamous cell carcinoma. By quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, the expression of SHH, SMO, PTCH-1, and GLI-1 was analyzed in 30 oral squamous cell carcinoma cases and 8 samples of nonneoplastic oral mucosa and associated to clinical pathologic features. The expression of β-catenin, cyclin D1, Wnt-1, and Egfr was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 26 available cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Normal oral mucosa from healthy individuals was negative for all genes that were evaluated. SHH, PTCH-1, SMO, and GLI-1 were not expressed in nonneoplastic oral mucosa, and low levels of GLI-1 were observed in nonneoplastic oral mucosa that was adjacent to the tumor. All oral squamous cell carcinoma cases expressed high levels of PTCH-1, SMO, and GLI-1 and were devoid of SHH. The expression of SMO was associated with clinical stage (P = .022) and a borderline association in cervical lymph node metastasis (P = .053). PTCH-1 expression showed a strong correlation with SMO (rs = 0.64; P < .001) and GL-1 (rs = 0.70; P < .001); SMO and GLI-1 also correlated with each other (rs, 0.55; P < .001). All proteins evaluated were expressed as cyclin D1 (92% of samples), β-catenin (73%), Egfr (46%), or Wnt-1 (32%). Our data demonstrate that sonic hedgehog signaling is activated in oral squamous cell carcinoma and suggest that this pathway mediates its tumorigenesis.
Collapse
|
43
|
Chung CH, Dignam JJ, Hammond ME, Klimowicz AC, Petrillo SK, Magliocco A, Jordan R, Trotti A, Spencer S, Cooper JS, Le QT, Ang KK. Glioma-associated oncogene family zinc finger 1 expression and metastasis in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiation therapy (RTOG 9003). J Clin Oncol 2011; 29:1326-34. [PMID: 21357786 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2010.32.3295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Glioma-associated oncogene family zinc finger 1 (GLI1) expression was assessed to determine a potential role of hedgehog (Hh) signaling in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Additional proteins known to be modulated by Hh signaling, including beta-catenin (CTNNB1) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), were also assessed to determine the correlation among these distinct signaling pathways. PATIENTS AND METHODS Nuclear GLI1 and CTNNB1 expression levels were determined in tumors from patients enrolled on Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) 9003, a radiation fractionation trial. The results were also correlated with previously determined EGFR expression. The expression levels were evaluated in relation to three end points: time to metastasis (TTM), time to disease progression (TDP), and overall survival (OS). RESULTS Among 1,068 eligible patients, data on GLI1, CTNNB1, and EGFR were available in 339, 164, and 300 patients, respectively. Although CTNNB1 expression did not differentiate prognosis, GLI1 was associated with poorer outcomes, adjusted for age, TNM stages, and Karnofsky performance score, and the significant influence persisted in a multivariable analysis (quartile 4 [Q4] v Q1 to Q3: TTM hazard ratio [HR], 2.7; 95% CI, 1.5 to 4.9; TDP HR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.5; OS HR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.4 to 2.7). The significance of GLI1 persisted in a multivariable analysis that included EGFR expression levels. CONCLUSION These data suggest that Hh signaling may play an important role in metastasis and that GLI1 could serve as a marker in HNSCC, but the regulatory mechanisms and oncogenic significance need further investigation. Risk classification based on this analysis needs a validation in independent cohorts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine H Chung
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans St, CRB-1 Room 344, Baltimore, MD 21231-1000, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|