1
|
Mohan CD, Shanmugam MK, Gowda SGS, Chinnathambi A, Rangappa KS, Sethi G. c-MET pathway in human malignancies and its targeting by natural compounds for cancer therapy. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 128:155379. [PMID: 38503157 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND c-MET is a receptor tyrosine kinase which is classically activated by HGF to activate its downstream signaling cascades such as MAPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and STAT3. The c-MET modulates cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), immune response, morphogenesis, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. The c-MET has been shown to serve a prominent role in embryogenesis and early development. The c-MET pathway is deregulated in a broad range of malignancies, due to overexpression of ligands or receptors, genomic amplification, and MET mutations. The link between the deregulation of c-MET signaling and tumor progression has been well-documented. Overexpression or overactivation of c-MET is associated with dismal clinical outcomes and acquired resistance to targeted therapies. Since c-MET activation results in the triggering of oncogenic pathways, abrogating the c-MET pathway is considered to be a pivotal strategy in cancer therapeutics. Herein, an analysis of role of the c-MET pathway in human cancers and its relevance in bone metastasis and therapeutic resistance has been undertaken. Also, an attempt has been made to summarize the inhibitory activity of selected natural compounds towards c-MET signaling in cancers. METHODS The publications related to c-MET pathway in malignancies and its natural compound modulators were obtained from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar and summarized based on PRISMA guidelines. Some of the keywords used for extracting relevant literature are c-MET, natural compound inhibitors of c-MET, c-MET in liver cancer, c-MET in breast cancer, c-MET in lung cancer, c-MET in pancreatic cancer, c-MET in head and neck cancer, c-MET in bone metastasis, c-MET in therapeutic resistance, and combination of c-MET inhibitors and chemotherapeutic agents. The chemical structure of natural compounds was verified in PubChem database. RESULTS The search yielded 3935 publications, of which 195 reference publications were used for our analysis. Clinical trials were referenced using ClinicalTrials.gov identifier. The c-MET pathway has been recognized as a prominent target to combat the growth, metastasis, and chemotherapeutic resistance in cancers. The key role of the c-MET in bone metastasis as well as therapeutic resistance has been elaborated. Also, suppressive effect of selected natural compounds on the c-MET pathway in clinical/preclinical studies has been discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chakrabhavi Dhananjaya Mohan
- FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Vishvigyan Bhawan, 31, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226 001, India
| | - Muthu K Shanmugam
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | | | - Arunachalam Chinnathambi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kanchugarakoppal S Rangappa
- Institution of Excellence, Vijnana Bhavan, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore, Karnataka 570006, India.
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yang MH, Lee M, Deivasigamani A, Le DD, Mohan CD, Hui KM, Sethi G, Ahn KS. Decanoic Acid Exerts Its Anti-Tumor Effects via Targeting c-Met Signaling Cascades in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Model. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4681. [PMID: 37835375 PMCID: PMC10571573 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
DA, one of the medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil, is suggested to have diverse biochemical functions. However, its possible role as a chemoprevention agent in HCC has not been deciphered. Aberrant activation of c-Met can modulate tumor growth and progression in HCC. Here, we report that DA exhibited pro-found anti-tumor effects on human HCC through the suppression of HGF/c-Met signaling cascades in vitro and in vivo. It was noted that DA inhibited HGF-induced activation of c-Met and its downstream signals. DA induced apoptotic cell death and inhibited the expression of diverse tumorigenic proteins. In addition, DA attenuated tumor growth and lung metastasis in the HCC mouse model. Similar to in vitro studies, DA also suppressed the expression of c-Met and its downstream signals in mice tissues. These results highlight the substantial potential of DA in the prevention and treatment of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Hee Yang
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| | - Mina Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Sunchon National University, 255 Jungangno, Suncheon-si 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.L.); (D.D.L.)
| | - Amudha Deivasigamani
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore 169610, Singapore; (A.D.); (K.M.H.)
| | - Duc Dat Le
- College of Pharmacy, Sunchon National University, 255 Jungangno, Suncheon-si 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.L.); (D.D.L.)
| | - Chakrabhavi Dhananjaya Mohan
- FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Vishvigyan Bhawan, 31, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow 226001, Uttar Pradesh, India;
| | - Kam Man Hui
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore 169610, Singapore; (A.D.); (K.M.H.)
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
C3G Is Upregulated in Hepatocarcinoma, Contributing to Tumor Growth and Progression and to HGF/MET Pathway Activation. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082282. [PMID: 32823931 PMCID: PMC7463771 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The complexity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) challenges the identification of disease-relevant signals. C3G, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rap and other Ras proteins, plays a dual role in cancer acting as either a tumor suppressor or promoter depending on tumor type and stage. The potential relevance of C3G upregulation in HCC patients suggested by database analysis remains unknown. We have explored C3G function in HCC and the underlying mechanisms using public patient data and in vitro and in vivo human and mouse HCC models. We found that C3G is highly expressed in progenitor cells and neonatal hepatocytes, whilst being down-regulated in adult hepatocytes and re-expressed in human HCC patients, mouse HCC models and HCC cell lines. Moreover, high C3G mRNA levels correlate with tumor progression and a lower patient survival rate. C3G expression appears to be tightly modulated within the HCC program, influencing distinct cell biological properties. Hence, high C3G expression levels are necessary for cell tumorigenic properties, as illustrated by reduced colony formation in anchorage-dependent and -independent growth assays induced by permanent C3G silencing using shRNAs. Additionally, we demonstrate that C3G down-regulation interferes with primary HCC tumor formation in xenograft assays, increasing apoptosis and decreasing proliferation. In vitro assays also revealed that C3G down-regulation enhances the pro-migratory, invasive and metastatic properties of HCC cells through an epithelial-mesenchymal switch that favors the acquisition of a more mesenchymal phenotype. Consistently, a low C3G expression in HCC cells correlates with lung metastasis formation in mice. However, the subsequent restoration of C3G levels is associated with metastatic growth. Mechanistically, C3G down-regulation severely impairs HGF/MET signaling activation in HCC cells. Collectively, our results indicate that C3G is a key player in HCC. C3G promotes tumor growth and progression, and the modulation of its levels is essential to ensure distinct biological features of HCC cells throughout the oncogenic program. Furthermore, C3G requirement for HGF/MET signaling full activation provides mechanistic data on how it works, pointing out the relevance of assessing whether high C3G levels could identify HCC responders to MET inhibitors.
Collapse
|
4
|
Asaoka Y, Tateishi R, Hayashi A, Ushiku T, Shibahara J, Kinoshita J, Ouchi Y, Koike M, Fukayama M, Shiina S, Koike K. Expression of c-Met in Primary and Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Oncology 2019; 98:186-194. [PMID: 31846974 DOI: 10.1159/000504806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical course of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is complicated, because it often recurs and shows multiple lesions, some of which progress to a more malignant form, shortening the life of the patient. The hepatocyte growth factor receptor c-Met has been shown to play an important role in the pathogenesis of HCC, but the influence of c-Met expression on the clinical course of HCC remains to be fully elucidated. METHODS We randomly selected and included 600 tumor specimens obtained from the primary and recurrent lesions of 319 HCC cases between 1995 and 2007. The expression of c-Met was determined by immunohistochemistry using archived formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples. We analyzed the correlation between c-Met expression and clinical parameters, including survival. In addition, we examined c-Met expression in the malignant transition of HCC in all cases including recurrent lesions. RESULTS Survival analysis using the multivariate Cox proportional-regression model revealed that the prognosis was significantly better in the primary cases with high c-Met expression than in those with low c-Met expression (hazard ratio 0.159, 95% confidence interval 0.065-0.391; p < 0.001). During the course of recurrence, some cases with high c-Met expression returned to low c-Met expression. Among 40 cases with high c-Met expression, 29 survived more than 2 years after detecting the high c-Met expression. CONCLUSION High expression of c-Met may be a prognostic factor for a good, rather than a poor, HCC prognosis. The involvement of c-Met expression in the malignant transition of recurrent HCC is obscure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinari Asaoka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Tateishi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan,
| | - Akimasa Hayashi
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Ushiku
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junji Shibahara
- Department of Pathology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun Kinoshita
- Clinical Development Center, Development Functions Unit, R&D Division, Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiumi Ouchi
- Statistical Analysis Group, Biometrics Department, Development Functions Unit, R&D Division, Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masamichi Koike
- Oncology R&D Unit, R&D Division, Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Fukayama
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuichiro Shiina
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Koike
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen W, Jiang J, Wang PP, Gong L, Chen J, Du W, Bi K, Diao H. Identifying Hepatocellular Carcinoma Driver Genes by Integrative Pathway Crosstalk and Protein Interaction Network. DNA Cell Biol 2019; 38:1112-1124. [PMID: 31464520 PMCID: PMC6791483 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2019.4869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we mined out hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) driver genes from MEDLINE literatures by bioinformatics methods of pathway crosstalk and protein interaction network. Furthermore, the relationship between driver genes and their clinicopathological characteristics, as well as classification effectiveness was verified in the public databases. We identified 560 human genes reported to be associated with HCC in 1074 published articles. Functional analysis revealed that biological processes and biochemical pathways relating to tumor pathogenesis, cancer disease, tumor cell molecule, and hepatic disease were enriched in these genes. Pathway crosstalk analysis indicated that significant pathways could be divided into three modules: cancer disease, virus infection, and tumor signaling pathway. The HCC-related protein-protein interaction network comprised 10,212 nodes, and 56,400 edges were mined out to identify 18 modules corresponding to 14 driver genes. We verified that these 14 driver genes have high classification effectiveness to distinguish cancer samples from normal samples and the classification effectiveness was better than that of randomly selected genes. Present study provided pathway crosstalk and protein interaction network for understanding potential tumorigenesis genes underlying HCC. The 14 driver genes identified from this study are of great translational value in HCC diagnosis and treatment, as well as in clinical study on the pathogenesis of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenbiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peizhong Peter Wang
- Division of Community Health and Humanities, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Lan Gong
- St George and Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jianing Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weibo Du
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kefan Bi
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongyan Diao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Greten TF, Lai CW, Li G, Staveley-O'Carroll KF. Targeted and Immune-Based Therapies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Gastroenterology 2019; 156:510-524. [PMID: 30287171 PMCID: PMC6340758 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.09.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Treatment options for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma are rapidly changing based on positive results from phase 3 trials of targeted and immune-based therapies. More agents designed to target specific pathways and immune checkpoints are in clinical development. Some agents have already been shown to improve outcomes of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, as first- and second-line therapies, and are awaiting approval by the Food and Drug Administration or have been recently approved. We summarize the targeted and immune-based agents in trials of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma and discuss the future of these strategies for liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim F Greten
- Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; National Cancer Institute CCR Liver Cancer Program, Bethesda, Maryland.
| | - Chunwei Walter Lai
- Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Liver Disease Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Guangfu Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri; Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhong L, Cai S, Huang Y, Yin L, Yang Y, Lu C, Yang H. DNA Octahedron-Based Fluorescence Nanoprobe for Dual Tumor-Related mRNAs Detection and Imaging. Anal Chem 2018; 90:12059-12066. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.8b02847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhong
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuxian Cai
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Huang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, People’s Republic of China
| | - Litian Yin
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuling Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chunhua Lu
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huanghao Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wu H, Tao J, Li X, Zhang T, Zhao L, Wang Y, Zhang L, Xiong J, Zeng Z, Zhan N, Steer CJ, Che L, Dong M, Wang X, Niu J, Li Z, Yan G, Chen X, Song G. MicroRNA-206 prevents the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma by modulating expression of met proto-oncogene and cyclin-dependent kinase 6 in mice. Hepatology 2017; 66:1952-1967. [PMID: 28714063 PMCID: PMC5696004 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal cancers worldwide, and therapeutic agents for this malignancy are lacking. MicroRNAs play critical roles in carcinogenesis and present tremendous therapeutic potential. Here, we report that microRNA-206 is a robust tumor suppressor that plays important roles in the development of HCC by regulating cell-cycle progression and the cMet signaling pathway. MicroRNA-206 was underexpressed in livers of two HCC mouse models, human individuals bearing HCC, and human HCC cell lines. Combining bioinformatic prediction and molecular and cellular approaches, we identified cMET (Met proto-oncogene), cyclin D1 (CCND1), and cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) as functional targets of microRNA-206. By inhibiting expression of cMET, CCND1, and CDK6, microRNA-206 delayed cell-cycle progression, induced apoptosis, and impaired proliferation of three distinct human HCC cell lines. Systemic administration of microRNA-206 completely prevented HCC development in both cMyc and V-Akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1/neuroblastoma RAS viral oncogene homolog (AKT/Ras) HCC mice, whereas 100% of control mice died from lethal tumor burdens. Conversely, reintroduction of cMet or Cdk6 into livers of cMyc and AKT/Ras HCC mice recovered growth of HCC inhibited by microRNA-206. These results strongly suggested that cMet and Cdk6 were two functional targets that mediated the inhibitory effect of microRNA-206 on the development of HCC. MicroRNA-206 overexpression demonstrated a profound therapeutic effect on HCC in xenograft and cMyc HCC mice. CONCLUSION In summary, this study defines a potentially critical role of microRNA-206 in preventing the growth of HCC and suggests its use as a potential therapeutic strategy for this malignancy. (Hepatology 2017;66:1952-1967).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Wu
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Junyan Tao
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, USA,School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430060, China
| | - Xiaolei Li
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Tianpeng Zhang
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China
| | - Yao Wang
- School of First Clinical Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430060, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China
| | - Jun Xiong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China
| | - Zhi Zeng
- Department of Pathology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430060, China
| | - Na Zhan
- Department of Pathology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430060, China
| | - Clifford J. Steer
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA,Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Li Che
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Mingjie Dong
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China
| | - Junqi Niu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China
| | - Zhuoyu Li
- Institute of Biotechnology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province 030006, China
| | - Guiqing Yan
- Colleges of Life Science, Shanxi Normal University, 1 Gongyuan Street, Linfen City, Shanxi Province 041004, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed: Guisheng Song, Ph.D., Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota Medical School, 406 Harvard Street SE, MMC36, Minneapolis MN 55455, ; Xin Chen, Ph.D., Departments of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, S816, San Francisco CA 94143:
| | - Guisheng Song
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA,Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA,Colleges of Life Science, Shanxi Normal University, 1 Gongyuan Street, Linfen City, Shanxi Province 041004, China,To whom correspondence should be addressed: Guisheng Song, Ph.D., Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota Medical School, 406 Harvard Street SE, MMC36, Minneapolis MN 55455, ; Xin Chen, Ph.D., Departments of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, S816, San Francisco CA 94143:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Connell LC, Harding JJ, Abou-Alfa GK. Advanced Hepatocellular Cancer: the Current State of Future Research. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2017; 17:43. [PMID: 27344158 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-016-0415-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common malignancy worldwide, rapidly rising in incidence. While there have been some developments in advancing therapeutic options in this disease, these have admittedly been modest to date, and as a result, this is a patient population with an inherently poor prognosis. Currently, sorafenib remains the only established systemic therapy proven to increase the overall survival of patients with advanced disease. The approval of sorafenib in 2007 ushered in the era of targeted therapies. Several phase 2 and 3 clinical trials have failed however to improve on sorafenib in the first-line setting, and no single agent has been demonstrated to impact outcomes after sorafenib failure. Having reached somewhat of an impasse in terms of drug development in hepatocellular carcinoma, enthusiasm in the field has moved toward innovative approaches such as molecular characterization and immunotherapy in an attempt to impact survival. This review highlights the current endeavors in terms of experimental research for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louise C Connell
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - James J Harding
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Ghassan K Abou-Alfa
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Della Corte CM, Viscardi G, Papaccio F, Esposito G, Martini G, Ciardiello D, Martinelli E, Ciardiello F, Morgillo F. Implication of the Hedgehog pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:4330-4340. [PMID: 28706416 PMCID: PMC5487497 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i24.4330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2017] [Revised: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The prognosis for patients who are diagnosed with advanced stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is poor because there are few treatment options. Recent research has focused on the identification of novel molecular entities that can be targeted to inhibit oncogenic signals that are involved in the carcinogenesis, proliferation and progression of HCC. Among all of the pathways that are involved in the development of HCC, Hedgehog (HH) signalling has demonstrated a substantial role in hepatocarcinogenesis and HCC progression. HH plays a physiological role in embryogenesis, through the induction of the differentiation of hepatocytes from endodermal progenitors. The re-activation of the HH pathway in chronic damaged liver is a mechanism of fibrotic degeneration and is implicated in various stages of HCC development. HH activation sustains the sub-population of immature liver epithelial cells that are involved in the pathogenesis of cirrhosis and HCC, and HH itself is a mediator of the alcohol-derived malignant transformation of liver cells. High levels of expression of HH protein markers in liver tumour tissues are correlated with aggressive histological and biological features and a poor clinical outcome. In vitro and in vivo inhibition models of the HH pathway confirm that HH is essential in maintaining tumour growth, metastasis and a mesenchymal phenotype.
Collapse
|
11
|
Han Y, Wu Y, Yang C, Huang J, Guo Y, Liu L, Chen P, Wu D, Liu J, Li J, Zhou X, Hou J. Dynamic and specific immune responses against multiple tumor antigens were elicited in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after cell-based immunotherapy. J Transl Med 2017; 15:64. [PMID: 28330473 PMCID: PMC5363021 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-017-1165-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers in China and frequently occurs with chronic hepatitis B virus infection. To investigate whether cell-based cancer immunotherapy induces tumor specific immune responses in patients with HCC and provides clinical benefits, as well as to elucidate the most immunogenic tumor associated antigens (TAAs), multiple antigen stimulating cellular therapy (MASCT) was applied in addition to standard of care. METHODS Mature dendritic cells (DCs) and activated T cells prepared for MASCT were generated from autologous peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). DCs were loaded with a peptide pool of multiple HCC-related tumor antigens, and T cells were stimulated by these DCs. RESULTS Thirteen patients with HCC received repeated MASCT after tumor resection during which their immune responses were examined. After three courses of MASCT, the frequency of regulatory T cells in the patients' PBMCs significantly decreased (p < 0.001), while the antigen peptide pool-triggered T cell proliferation (p < 0.001) and IFNγ production (p = 0.001) were significantly enhanced. The specific T cell responses against each antigen in the pool were detected in 11 patients, but with individualized distinct patterns. The most immunogenic TAAs for HCC are survivin, CCND1, and RGS5. Moreover, the antigen-specific immune responses observed in tumor-free patients' PBMCs were significantly stronger than that in the patients with recurrence (p = 0.037). CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that MASCT is well-tolerated by patients with HCC and elicits strong and dynamic immune responses specifically against multiple tumor associated antigens, which may correlate with clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Han
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,HRYZ Biotech Co., Shenzhen, China
| | - Yeting Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chou Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yabing Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | | | | | - Jin Li
- HRYZ Biotech Co., Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Jinlin Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ribeiro de Souza A, Reig M, Bruix J. Systemic treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: the search of new agents to join sorafenib in the effective therapeutic armamentarium. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2016; 17:1923-36. [DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2016.1225722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
13
|
Piras-Straub K, Khairzada K, Kocabayoglu P, Paul A, Gerken G, Herzer K. A -1573T>C SNP within the human TRAIL promoter determines TRAIL expression and HCC tumor progression. Cancer Med 2016; 5:2942-2952. [PMID: 27580702 PMCID: PMC5083748 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) induces apoptosis in liver cancer cells but not in normal liver cells. Therefore, TRAIL got credited to play a role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development and progression. Impaired expression of TRAIL in HCC cells and sequence variations in the TRAIL promoter may facilitate development, growth, and spread . The TRAIL promoter was sequenced from liver tissue of 93 patients undergoing partial liver resection (PRT) or liver transplantation (LT) for HCC. TRAIL mRNA expression was investigated by quantitative real‐time PCR. A variant ‐1573T>C (single‐nucleotide polymorphism; C, cytosine) SNP was characterized by electron mobility shift assay and supershift assays. Functionality of the ‐1573T>C SNP was analyzed in reporter gene assays and cell migration assays. In approximately 30% of HCC samples, a loss‐of‐function shift of the binding pattern due to a ‐1573T>C SNP was found within the human TRAIL promoter. Correlation analysis revealed significantly lower TRAIL expression in HCC samples with the ‐1573C sequence (P ≤ 0.05). Reporter gene assays revealed significantly reduced inducibility of the TRAIL promoter due to the ‐1573C sequence. The variant ‐1573C sequence impaired not only binding of transcription factors but also expression of TRAIL. Interestingly, this impairment resulted in enhanced migration activity and colony formation of the liver tumor cells. Our findings suggest that loss of function of the human TRAIL promoter due to the ‐1573T>C SNP leads to reduced expression and impaired inducibility of TRAIL, with the consequence of enhanced growth and migration of tumor cells, ultimately resulting in the progression of the HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katja Piras-Straub
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Germany, Essen, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Khaleda Khairzada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Peri Kocabayoglu
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Germany, Essen, Germany
| | - Andreas Paul
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Germany, Essen, Germany
| | - Guido Gerken
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Kerstin Herzer
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Germany, Essen, Germany. .,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
EASL Recognition Award Recipient 2016: Prof. Jordi Bruix. J Hepatol 2016; 64:998-1000. [PMID: 27083768 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
|
15
|
Tolaney SM, Tan S, Guo H, Barry W, Van Allen E, Wagle N, Brock J, Larrabee K, Paweletz C, Ivanova E, Janne P, Overmoyer B, Wright JJ, Shapiro GI, Winer EP, Krop IE. Phase II study of tivantinib (ARQ 197) in patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. Invest New Drugs 2015; 33:1108-14. [PMID: 26123926 PMCID: PMC4608248 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-015-0269-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background MET expression and activation appear to be important for initiation and progression of triple-negative breast cancer. Tivantinib (ARQ 197) is an orally administered agent that targets MET, although recent preclinical data suggests the agent may have mechanisms of action that are independent of MET signaling. We conducted a phase 2 study of tivantinib monotherapy in patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. Methods Patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer who had received 1 to 3 prior lines of chemotherapy in the metastatic setting were enrolled into this two-stage, single arm phase 2 study. Treatment consisted of twice daily oral dosing of tivantinib (360 mg po bid) during a 21-day cycle. Patients underwent restaging scans at 6 weeks, and then every 9 weeks. Tumor biomarkers that might predict response to tivantinib were explored. Results 22 patients were enrolled. The overall response rate was 5 % (95 % CI 0–25 %) and the 6-month progression-free survival (PFS) was 5 % (95 % CI 0–25 %), with one patient achieving a partial response (PR). Toxicity was minimal with only 5 grade ≥3 adverse events (one grade 3 anemia, one grade 3 fatigue, and 3 patients with grade 3/4 neutropenia). Conclusion This study represents the first evaluation of tivantinib for the treatment of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. These results suggest that single agent tivantinib is well tolerated, but did not meet prespecified statistical targets for efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Tolaney
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | - Sally Tan
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hao Guo
- Department of Biostatistics and Computation Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William Barry
- Department of Biostatistics and Computation Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eliezer Van Allen
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Nikhil Wagle
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jane Brock
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Katherine Larrabee
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Cloud Paweletz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Belfer Institute for Applied Cancer Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elena Ivanova
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Belfer Institute for Applied Cancer Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pasi Janne
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Belfer Institute for Applied Cancer Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Beth Overmoyer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - John J Wright
- Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Geoffrey I Shapiro
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Eric P Winer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Ian E Krop
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Yawkey 1257, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Thompson AI, Conroy KP, Henderson NC. Hepatic stellate cells: central modulators of hepatic carcinogenesis. BMC Gastroenterol 2015; 15:63. [PMID: 26013123 PMCID: PMC4445994 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-015-0291-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the second most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide, and is increasing in incidence. Currently, our therapeutic repertoire for the treatment of HCC is severely limited, and therefore effective new therapies are urgently required. Recently, there has been increasing interest focusing on the cellular and molecular interactions between cancer cells and their microenvironment. HCC represents a unique opportunity to study the relationship between a diseased stroma and promotion of carcinogenesis, as 90 % of HCCs arise in a cirrhotic liver. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are the major source of extracellular proteins during fibrogenesis, and may directly, or via secreted products, contribute to tumour initiation and progression. In this review we explore the complex cellular and molecular interplay between HSC biology and hepatocarcinogenesis. We focus on the molecular mechanisms by which HSC modulate HCC growth, immune cell evasion and angiogenesis. This is followed by a discussion of recent progress in the field in understanding the mechanistic crosstalk between HSC and HCC, and the pathways that are potentially amenable to therapeutic intervention. Furthermore, we summarise the exciting recent developments in strategies to target HSC specifically, and novel techniques to deliver pharmaceutical agents directly to HSC, potentially allowing tailored, cell-specific therapy for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra I Thompson
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Kylie P Conroy
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Neil C Henderson
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mao ZY, Zhu GQ, Ren L, Guo XC, Su D, Bai L. Prognostic Value of C-met Expression in Cholangiocarcinoma. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2015; 15:227-33. [PMID: 25873560 DOI: 10.1177/1533034615578959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To explore the relationship of clinicopathological features and the proteins of C-met expression in the prognosis of cholangiocarcinoma. Methods: Clinical data and the completed follow-up information of patients with cholangiocarcinoma who underwent cholangiocarcinoma operation from January 2004 to December 2010 were analyzed retrospectively. The relationship of clinicopathological features and C-met in the prognosis of the patients was analyzed. Results: Patients with high expression of C-met had significantly shorter overall survival than those with low expression of C-met, the difference being statistically significant ( P = .003). Patients with high C-met expression had significantly shorter disease-free survival time than those with low expression of C-met, the difference being statistically significant ( P = .009). By COX multivariate analysis, high C-met expression in tumor tissues was an independent risk factor in predicting overall survival and disease-free survival for patients with cholangiocarcinoma ( P = .038, .048, relative risk = 1.390, 1.427). Conclusion: Patients with high C-met expression in cancer tissues had shorter disease-free survival and overall survival. High expression of C-met is an independent risk factor for overall survival and disease-free survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Yuan Mao
- Department of Oncology, Air Force General Hospital of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Guang-Qing Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Air Force General Hospital of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Li Ren
- Department of Pathology, Air Force General Hospital of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Chuan Guo
- Department of Oncology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Su
- Department of Oncology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li Bai
- Department of Oncology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hollebecque A, Malka D, Ferté C, Ducreux M, Boige V. Systemic treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: from disillusions to new horizons. Eur J Cancer 2015; 51:327-39. [PMID: 25559615 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2014.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy, which accounts for a third of all cancer deaths globally each year. The management of patients with HCC is complex, as both the tumour stage and any underlying liver disease must be considered conjointly. Since the approval of sorafenib in advanced HCC, several phase III clinical trials have failed to demonstrate any superiority over sorafenib in the frontline setting, and no agent has been shown to impact outcomes after sorafenib failure. This review will focus on the range of experimental therapeutics for patients with advanced HCC and highlight the successes and failures of these treatments as well as areas for future development. Specifics such as dose limiting toxicity and safety profile in patients with liver dysfunction related to the underlying chronic liver disease should be considered when developing therapies in HCC. Finally, robust validated and reproducible surrogate end-points as well as predictive biomarkers should be defined in future randomised trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Hollebecque
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Gustave Roussy, University of Paris Sud, Villejuif, France; Drug Development Department (DITEP), Gustave Roussy, University of Paris Sud, Villejuif, France
| | - David Malka
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Gustave Roussy, University of Paris Sud, Villejuif, France
| | - Charles Ferté
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Gustave Roussy, University of Paris Sud, Villejuif, France
| | - Michel Ducreux
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Gustave Roussy, University of Paris Sud, Villejuif, France
| | - Valérie Boige
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Gustave Roussy, University of Paris Sud, Villejuif, France.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
|
20
|
Fornaro L, Vivaldi C, Caparello C, Sacco R, Rotella V, Musettini G, Luchi S, Baldini EE, Falcone A, Masi G. Dissecting signaling pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma: new perspectives in medical therapy. Future Oncol 2014; 10:285-304. [PMID: 24490614 DOI: 10.2217/fon.13.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prognosis of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is poor and is largely influenced by associated liver comorbidities. Moreover, effective treatment alternatives are limited; with the exception of the multitargeted inhibitor sorafenib, established options in the treatment of advanced HCC no longer amenable with ablative or locoregional procedures are lacking. In light of the limited efficacy of chemotherapy in this setting, great efforts have been made in the definition of targetable molecular pathways with a central role in the progression of HCC. Targeting angiogenesis, growth factor receptors, intracellular transduction pathways, or mechanisms of gene-expression regulation represents the main way to improve patient outcome. At the same time, identifying clinical and biological factors, which may help selecting patients with higher chances of benefit, is essential in order to hasten drug development and maximize treatment efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Fornaro
- Division of Medical Oncology, Ospedale Campo di Marte, Azienda USL2 Lucca, Lucca, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
MicroRNAs in liver cancer: a model for investigating pathogenesis and novel therapeutic approaches. Cell Death Differ 2014; 22:46-57. [PMID: 25190143 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2014.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Revised: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute a large class of short RNAs (e.g., 20-24 nucleotides in length), whose main function is to posttranscriptionally regulate the expression of protein-coding genes. Their importance in tumorigenesis has been demonstrated over the past decade, and correspondingly, they have emerged as potential therapeutic molecules and targets. Liver cancer is one of the most common neoplastic diseases worldwide, and it currently has a poor prognosis owing to largely ineffective therapeutic options. Liver cancer is also an excellent model for testing miRNA-based therapy approaches as it can be easily targeted with the systemic delivery of oligonucleotides. In recent years, the role of miRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been established with molecular studies and the development of animal models. These studies have also provided the basis for evaluating the therapeutic potential of miRNAs, or anti-miRNAs. In general, the safety of miRNAs has been proven and antitumor activity has been observed. Moreover, because of the absence or presence of mild side effects, the prophylactic use of miRNA-based approaches may be foreseen.
Collapse
|
22
|
Harding JJ, Abou-Alfa GK. Treating advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: How to get out of first gear. Cancer 2014; 120:3122-30. [PMID: 24898783 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.28850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Revised: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common malignancy with a poor prognosis. Sorafenib is the only systemic therapy known to improve the overall survival of patients with advanced disease. The clinical benefit of sorafenib is modest and the mechanistic basis for its activity is unknown. Four phase 3 clinical trials have failed to improve on sorafenib in the frontline setting and no agent has been shown to impact outcomes after sorafenib failure. Several factors have contributed to this recent stall in drug development but new approaches hold promise and currently are being investigated. This review will focus on the current pipeline of experimental therapeutics for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma and shed a light on scientific limitations that hamper the advancement of new therapies for this disease, and ways around it.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James J Harding
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Giordano S, Columbano A. Met as a therapeutic target in HCC: facts and hopes. J Hepatol 2014; 60:442-52. [PMID: 24045150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2013.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Revised: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, and its burden is expected to increase further in the next years. In spite of the advances of classical therapies, such as surgery, transplantation, use of radiofrequency and transarterial embolization, the prognosis of this neoplasm has not considerably improved over the past few years. The advent of targeted therapies and the approval of the systemic treatment of advanced HCC with the kinase inhibitor sorafenib have provided some hope for the future. Even if the molecular mechanisms responsible for the onset and progression of HCC are still largely unknown, new therapeutic targets have recently come to the spotlight. One of these targets is the tyrosine kinase receptor for the Hepatocyte Growth Factor, encoded by the MET gene, known to promote tumor growth and metastasis in many human organs. In this review we will summarize the contrasting results obtained in vitro (in HCC cell lines) and in animal experimental models and we will also try to analyze the reasons for the opposite findings, suggesting that the HGF/MET axis can have either a promoting or a suppressive role in the development of HCC. We will also reconsider the evidence of activation of this pathway in human HCCs and discuss the results of the clinical trials performed with MET inhibitors. The final purpose is to better clarify which can be the role of MET as a therapeutic target in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giordano
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (IRCC), 10060 Candiolo (Torino), Italy.
| | - Amedeo Columbano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Oncology and Molecular Pathology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Molecular mechanisms underlying antiproliferative and differentiating responses of hepatocarcinoma cells to subthermal electric stimulation. PLoS One 2014; 9:e84636. [PMID: 24416255 PMCID: PMC3885594 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Capacitive Resistive Electric Transfer (CRET) therapy applies currents of 0.4–0.6 MHz to treatment of inflammatory and musculoskeletal injuries. Previous studies have shown that intermittent exposure to CRET currents at subthermal doses exert cytotoxic or antiproliferative effects in human neuroblastoma or hepatocarcinoma cells, respectively. It has been proposed that such effects would be mediated by cell cycle arrest and by changes in the expression of cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors. The present work focuses on the study of the molecular mechanisms involved in CRET-induced cytostasis and investigates the possibility that the cellular response to the treatment extends to other phenomena, including induction of apoptosis and/or of changes in the differentiation stage of hepatocarcinoma cells. The obtained results show that the reported antiproliferative action of intermittent stimulation (5 m On/4 h Off) with 0.57 MHz, sine wave signal at a current density of 50 µA/mm2, could be mediated by significant increase of the apoptotic rate as well as significant changes in the expression of proteins p53 and Bcl-2. The results also revealed a significantly decreased expression of alpha-fetoprotein in the treated samples, which, together with an increased concentration of albumin released into the medium by the stimulated cells, can be interpreted as evidence of a transient cytodifferentiating response elicited by the current. The fact that this type of electrical stimulation is capable of promoting both, differentiation and cell cycle arrest in human cancer cells, is of potential interest for a possible extension of the applications of CRET therapy towards the field of oncology.
Collapse
|
25
|
Shin JW, Chung YH. Molecular targeted therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: current and future. World J Gastroenterol 2013; 19:6144-55. [PMID: 24115810 PMCID: PMC3787343 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i37.6144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2013] [Revised: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent tumors worldwide. The majority of HCC cases occur in patients with chronic liver disease. Despite regular surveillance to detect small HCC in these patients, HCC is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Because HCC is highly resistant to conventional systemic therapies, the prognosis for advanced HCC patients remains poor. The introduction of sorafenib as the standard systemic therapy has unveiled a new direction for future research regarding HCC treatment. However, given the limited efficacy of the drug, a need exists to look beyond sorafenib. Many molecular targeted agents that inhibit different pathways involved in hepatocarcinogenesis are under various phases of clinical development, and novel targets are being assessed in HCC. This review aims to summarize the efforts to target molecular components of the signaling pathways that are responsible for the development and progression of HCC and to discuss perspectives on the future direction of research.
Collapse
|
26
|
Koh YS, Kim JH, Cai H, Li LH, Kim HS, Kim K, Kim N, Shin BA, Lee T, Choi SY, Cho CK. Dysregulated microRNAs in non-cirrhotic hepatocellular carcinoma. Genes Genomics 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s13258-013-0126-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
27
|
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite improvements in local therapies, including surgical resection, liver transplantation, and transarterial embolization, the prognosis remains poor for the majority of patients who develop recurrence or present with advanced disease. Systemic therapy with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor sorafenib represents a milestone in advanced HCC but provides a limited survival benefit. Ongoing efforts to study hepatocarcinogenesis have identified an important role for c-MET signaling in the promotion of tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. In this review, we summarize the preclinical data from human tissue, cell lines, and animal models that implicate c-MET in the pathogenesis of HCC. We also evaluate potential biomarkers that may estimate prognosis or predict response to c-MET inhibitors for more rational clinical trial design. Finally, we discuss the latest clinical trials of c-MET inhibitors in advanced HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lipika Goyal
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Santoro A, Simonelli M, Rodriguez-Lope C, Zucali P, Camacho LH, Granito A, Senzer N, Rimassa L, Abbadessa G, Schwartz B, Lamar M, Savage RE, Bruix J. A Phase-1b study of tivantinib (ARQ 197) in adult patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis. Br J Cancer 2013; 108:21-4. [PMID: 23287988 PMCID: PMC3553536 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2012.556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET) receptor is dysregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and tivantinib (ARQ 197) is an oral, selective, MET inhibitor. METHODS This Phase-1b study assessed tivantinib safety as primary objective in patients with previously treated HCC and Child-Pugh A or B liver cirrhosis. Patients received oral tivantinib 360 mg twice daily until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. RESULTS Among 21 HCC patients, common drug-related adverse events (AEs) were neutropaenia, anaemia, asthenia, leucopaenia, anorexia, diarrhoea, and fatigue. No drug-related worsening of liver function or performance status occurred, but one Child-Pugh B patient experienced drug-related bilirubin increase. Four patients had drug-related serious AEs, including one neutropaenia-related death. Haematologic toxicities were more frequent than in previous tivantinib studies but were manageable with prompt therapy. Best response was stable disease (median, 5.3 months) in 9 of 16 evaluable patients (56%). Median time to progression was 3.3 months. CONCLUSION Tivantinib demonstrated a manageable safety profile and preliminary antitumour activity in patients with HCC and Child-Pugh A or B cirrhosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Santoro
- Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, Humanitas Cancer Center, Istituto Clinico Humanitas IRCCS, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary hepatic malignancy. Its incidence and prevalence is globally heterogeneous with the highest rates in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. In Western Industry nations, its incidence has significantly increased throughout the previous three decades. Its global heterogeneity is in part a reflection of the global distribution of its risk factors. Its prognosis is dismal with a 5-year survival of 11 %. The only potentially curative treatment is surgical with either resection or orthotopic liver transplantation. However, the majority of HCC patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage at which surgical therapies are not feasible. HCC is considered chemotherapy-resistant-a characteristic thought to be mediated in part through stem-like tumor initiating cells (STICs). Recent studies have provided significant insights in the hepatocarcinogenesis and the molecular signaling pathways of this malignancy resulting in the development of novel, molecular targeted therapies with modest therapeutic benefit. Our growing understanding of the biology of this malignancy will help in the development of novel, molecular-targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boris Blechacz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Ang C, O'Reilly EM, Abou-Alfa GK. Targeted agents and systemic therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Recent Results Cancer Res 2013; 190:225-46. [PMID: 22941024 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-16037-0_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cytotoxic chemotherapy, hormonal agents, and immunotherapy have been tested in hepatocellular cancer (HCC) with marginal efficacy to date. Recent insights into the molecular pathogenesis of HCC have identified several aberrant signaling pathways that have served as targets for novel therapeutic agents. These discoveries have been translated into the clinical realm with the use of the antiangiogenic and the Raf kinase inhibitor, sorafenib, and have revealed the potential of targeted agents to produce clinically meaningful survival benefits in patients with advanced HCC. Efforts continue in the quest to improve the outcome of HCC patients through the development and evaluation of other targeted agents, and to better understand the interactions between the underlying disease biology and response to therapy. Several pathways are now implicated in hepatocarcinogenesis and agents that target these pathways continue to be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celina Ang
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Gonzalez-Angulo AM, Chen H, Karuturi MS, Chavez-MacGregor M, Tsavachidis S, Meric-Bernstam F, Do KA, Hortobagyi GN, Thompson PA, Mills GB, Bondy ML, Blumenschein GR. Frequency of mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor gene (MET) and the catalytic subunit of phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PIK3CA) copy number elevation and correlation with outcome in patients with early stage breast cancer. Cancer 2013; 119:7-15. [PMID: 22736407 PMCID: PMC3461089 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.27608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2012] [Revised: 02/09/2012] [Accepted: 02/22/2012] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current study was conducted to determine the frequency and association between recurrence-free survival (RFS) and MET and catalytic subunit of phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PIK3CA) copy number elevations in patients with early stage breast cancer. METHODS Tumor DNA was extracted from 971 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded early breast cancers for molecular inversion probes arrays. Data were segmented using the single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-FASST2 segmentation algorithm. Copy number gains were called when the copy number of each segment was greater than 2.3 or 1.7, respectively. RFS was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox proportional hazards models were fit to determine independent associations between copy number and RFS. RESULTS Of the 971 tumors studied, 82 (8.44%) and 134 (13.8%) had an elevation of the MET or PIK3CA copy number, respectively, and 25.6% of tumors with a MET copy number elevation had a PIK3CA copy number elevation. Patients with either a MET or PI3KCA high copy number tended to have poorer prognostic features (larger tumor size, higher tumor grade, and hormone receptor negativity). Both MET and PIK3CA high copy numbers were more likely to occur in patients with triple receptor-negative disease (P = .019 and P < .001, respectively). At a median follow-up of 7.4 years, there were 252 cases of disease recurrence. The 5-year RFS rates were 63.5% and 83.1% for MET high copy number and MET normal/low copy number, respectively (P = .06) and 73.1%, and 82.3% for PIK3CA high copy number and PIK3CA normal/low copy number, respectively (P = .15). A high copy number for either gene was not found to be an independent predictor of RFS. CONCLUSIONS A high copy number of MET or PIK3CA was found to be associated with poorer prognostic features and triple receptor-negative disease. Coamplification was frequent. Patients with tumors with high MET copy numbers tended to have a worse RFS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Gonzalez-Angulo
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Gao JJ, Inagaki Y, Xue X, Qu XJ, Tang W. c-Met: A potential therapeutic target for hepatocellular carcinoma. Drug Discov Ther 2012; 5:2-11. [PMID: 22466090 DOI: 10.5582/ddt.2011.v5.1.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The approval of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) targeted agent sorafenib as the first effective drug for the systemic treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a milestone in the treatment of this disease. A better understanding of HCC pathogenesis will lead to development of novel targeted treatments. As a typical member of the RTK family, c-Met represents an intriguing target for cancer therapy. The c-Met signaling pathway has been shown to be deregulated and to correlate with poor prognosis in a number of major human cancers. This review discusses the possibility of c-Met as a target in HCC treatment from the following respects: i) c-Met expression and activation profile in HCC, ii) relationship between c-Met and clinicopathologic state and prognosis of HCC, iii) role of c-Met signaling activity in HCC genesis and progression, and iv) strategy of c-Met pathway targeting therapy in HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J J Gao
- Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Clinical impact of c-Met expression and its gene amplification in hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Clin Oncol 2012; 18:207-13. [PMID: 22218908 DOI: 10.1007/s10147-011-0361-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND c-Met is an oncogene encoding a receptor for hepatocyte growth factor and, as such, plays a key role in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC). We evaluated c-Met protein expression and its gene amplification in order to assess whether they were related to tumor recurrence and survival rates among patients who had undergone tumor resection. METHODS We used the polymer-based method to perform an immunohistochemistry analysis of c-Met expression on 59 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of surgical specimens. c-Met gene amplification was investigated with fluorescence in-situ hybridization. Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate relationships between c-Met expression, patient characteristics, tumor recurrence, and survival. RESULTS c-Met expression was associated with portal vein invasion (p = 0.006). Recurrence-free survival rates were significantly lower in patients with high levels of c-Met expression (p < 0.001). However, c-Met expression levels did not significantly affect overall survival rates (p = 0.12). Only 1 patient was found to have c-Met gene amplification; 22 patients were found to have aneuploidy of chromosome 7, on which the c-Met gene is located. Tumors with chromosome 7 polysomy tended to have higher levels of c-Met expression than those with chromosome 7 monosomy or disomy, but this difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION Although c-Met expression was not significantly associated with c-Met gene amplification, it may be a useful predictive marker of recurrence in resected HCC patients.
Collapse
|
34
|
Huynh H, Ong R, Soo KC. Foretinib demonstrates anti-tumor activity and improves overall survival in preclinical models of hepatocellular carcinoma. Angiogenesis 2011; 15:59-70. [PMID: 22187171 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-011-9243-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2011] [Accepted: 12/08/2011] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF STUDY Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer death. Although sorafenib has been shown to improve survival of patients with advanced HCC, this improvement is modest and patients eventually have refractory disease. The purpose of this study is to assess the anti-tumor and anti-angiogenic activities of foretinib, a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) and c-Met inhibitor using mouse models of human HCC. EXPERIMENTAL TECHNIQUES SK-HEP1 and 21-0208 HCC cells as well as patient-derived HCC models were employed to study the anti-tumor and antiangiogenic activities of foretinib. Changes of biomarkers relevant to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signaling pathways were determined by Western blotting. Microvessel density, apoptosis and cell proliferation were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Treatment of SK-HEP1 cells with foretinib resulted in growth inhibition, G2/M cell cycle arrest, reduced colony formation and blockade of HGF-induced cell migration. In both orthotopic and ectopic models of HCC, foretinib potently inhibited tumor growth in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibition of angiogenesis correlated with inactivation of VEGFR-2/c-Met signaling pathways. Foretinib also caused elevation of p27 and Bim but reduced cyclin B1 expression and p-c-Myc, which resulted in a reduction in cellular proliferation and the induction of tumor cell apoptosis. In an orthotopic model, foretinib potently inhibited primary tumor growth and significantly prolonged mouse survival. DATA INTERPRETATIONS Foretinib demonstrated significant antitumor activities in patient-derived HCC xenograft models. This study provides a compelling rationale for clinical investigation in patients with advanced HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hung Huynh
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, Division of Molecular and Cellular Research, National Cancer Centre, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore 169610, Singapore.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Okamura Y, Nomoto S, Hayashi M, Hishida M, Nishikawa Y, Yamada S, Fujii T, Sugimoto H, Takeda S, Kodera Y, Nakao A. Identification of the bleomycin hydrolase gene as a methylated tumor suppressor gene in hepatocellular carcinoma using a novel triple-combination array method. Cancer Lett 2011; 312:150-7. [PMID: 21943823 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2011.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2011] [Revised: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 07/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we sought to identify novel suppressor genes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using our newly designed triple-combination array. Using this method, the bleomycin hydrolase gene (BLMH) was detected as a candidate suppressor gene. We found that 28 of 48 (58.3%) tumor tissues showed BLMH promoter hypermethylation, and its expression level was significantly reduced in tumor tissues (P=0.001). The present study suggests that our new method can detect novel genes of interest and that BLMH is a suppressor gene in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukiyasu Okamura
- Department of Surgery II, Graduate School and Medicine, University of Nagoya, Showa-ku, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Dong H, Zhang H, Liang J, Yan H, Chen Y, Shen Y, Kong Y, Wang S, Zhao G, Jin W. Digital karyotyping reveals probable target genes at 7q21.3 locus in hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Med Genomics 2011; 4:60. [PMID: 21767414 PMCID: PMC3152898 DOI: 10.1186/1755-8794-4-60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 07/19/2011] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a worldwide malignant liver tumor with high incidence in China. Subchromosomal amplifications and deletions accounted for major genomic alterations occurred in HCC. Digital karyotyping was an effective method for analyzing genome-wide chromosomal aberrations at high resolution. METHODS A digital karyotyping library of HCC was constructed and 454 Genome Sequencer FLX System (Roche) was applied in large scale sequencing of the library. Digital Karyotyping Data Viewer software was used to analyze genomic amplifications and deletions. Genomic amplifications of genes detected by digital karyotyping were examined by real-time quantitative PCR. The mRNA expression level of these genes in tumorous and paired nontumorous tissues was also detected by real-time quantitative RT-PCR. RESULTS A total of 821,252 genomic tags were obtained from the digital karyotyping library of HCC, with 529,162 tags (64%) mapped to unique loci of human genome. Multiple subchromosomal amplifications and deletions were detected through analyzing the digital karyotyping data, among which the amplification of 7q21.3 drew our special attention. Validation of genes harbored within amplicons at 7q21.3 locus revealed that genomic amplification of SGCE, PEG10, DYNC1I1 and SLC25A13 occurred in 11 (21%), 11 (21%), 11 (21%) and 23 (44%) of the 52 HCC samples respectively. Furthermore, the mRNA expression level of SGCE, PEG10 and DYNC1I1 were significantly up-regulated in tumorous liver tissues compared with corresponding nontumorous counterparts. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that subchromosomal region of 7q21.3 was amplified in HCC, and SGCE, PEG10 and DYNC1I1 were probable protooncogenes located within the 7q21.3 locus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Dong
- Chinese National Human Genome Center at Shanghai, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CC) is a highly malignant carcinoma. We attempted to clarify the prognostic significance of c-Met overexpression and its association with clinicopathological factors in patients with CC. Patients and methods: One hundred and eleven patients with intrahepatic CC (IHCC) and 136 patients with extrahepatic CC (EHCC) who had undergone curative surgery were divided immunohistologically into c-Methigh and c-Metlow groups. Clinicopathological factors and outcomes were compared between the groups. c-Met and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression was also examined in 10 CC cell lines. Results: The positivity of c-Met was 45.0% in IHCC and 68.4% in EHCC; c-Methigh expression was demonstrated in 11.7% of IHCC and 16.2% of EHCC. c-Methigh expression was significantly correlated with the 5-year survival rate for CC overall (P=0.0046) and for IHCC (P=0.0013), histopathological classification in EHCC, and for EGFR overexpression in both IHCC and EHCC. Coexpression and coactivation of c-Met and EGFR were also observed in CC cell lines. Multivariate analysis revealed that c-Methigh expression was an independent predictor of poor overall and disease-free survival in patients with IHCC. Conclusions: c-Met overexpression is associated with EGFR expression and is a poor prognostic factor in CC.
Collapse
|
38
|
Frenette C, Gish RG. Hepatocellular carcinoma: molecular and genomic guideline for the clinician. Clin Liver Dis 2011; 15:307-21, vii-x. [PMID: 21689615 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2011.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Understanding of the genetic changes and molecular signaling pathways that are active in hepatocellular carcinoma has improved substantially over the last decade. As more information becomes available, it is clear that the prognostication of hepatocellular carcinoma will soon include molecular and genomic "fingerprints" that are unique to each cancer, which will allow more personalized treatment plans for patients as more targeted therapies become available. This article discusses the molecular and genomic changes that are important in hepatocellular carcinoma in order for clinicians to understand the current and forthcoming treatment options for patients with liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Frenette
- The Methodist Center for Liver Disease, J.C. Walter Transplant Center, Department of Medicine, The Methodist Hospital, 6550 Fannin Street, SM 1001, Houston, TX 77098, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Lee YJ, Kim DH, Lee SH, Kim DW, Nam HS, Cho MK. Expression of the c-Met Proteins in Malignant Skin Cancers. Ann Dermatol 2011; 23:33-8. [PMID: 21738360 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2011.23.1.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2010] [Revised: 09/16/2010] [Accepted: 09/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The expression of c-Met is substantially elevated in most malignant human cancers. We therefore searched for c-Met expression and compared the expression level among malignant skin cancers. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the c-Met expression pattern and the protein expression level in selected malignant cutaneous tumors. METHODS G361 cells (malignant melanoma cell line) and A431 cells (squamous cell carcinoma cell line) were cultured and analyzed, using immunoprecipitation and Western blot analysis, for expression of c-Met. Additionally, 16 separate specimens of malignant melanomas (MMs), 16 squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), 16 basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and 16 normal tissues were analyzed for the expression of c-Met using immunohistochemical studies. RESULTS Based on cultured cell immunoprecipitation and Western blot analysis, both A431 cells and G361 cells expressed c-Met, however, c-Met was expressed substantially more in G361 cells. Immunohistochemical examination of c-Met showed that it was over-expressed in all malignant skin cancers. In addition, c-Met expression was more increased in MM compared to other cancers. CONCLUSION In our study, c-Met is involved in malignant skin cancer development and the level of its expression is thought to be related to the degree of malignancy in melanoma cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon-Jin Lee
- Molecular Cancer Research Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Okamura Y, Nomoto S, Kanda M, Hayashi M, Nishikawa Y, Fujii T, Sugimoto H, Takeda S, Nakao A. Reduced expression of reelin (RELN) gene is associated with high recurrence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2010; 18:572-9. [PMID: 20734148 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-010-1273-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the world's top five causes of cancer-related deaths. Current treatments available ameliorate HCC; however, current therapy fails to completely treat and prevent HCC, as shown by its high recurrence rate. Recently developed genome-wide gene-expression profile analyses can now robustly detect many candidate genes that are modified by HCC. Here we attempt to identify novel genes displaying altered gene expression profiles when comparing healthy tissue with HCC by means of a double-combination array previously developed. METHODS Double-combination array analysis of gene expression profiles and single nucleotide polymorphism arrays were performed on each HCC tissue sample. Subsequently, samples from 48 HCC patients were subjected to quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The reelin (RELN) gene was detected as a pertinent tumor suppressor gene by means of this method. Of the 48 clinical samples obtained, 34 (79.2%) displayed reduced RELN expression in tumor tissue, and the expression level of tumor tissues clearly reduced compared with that of corresponding normal tissues (P = 0.002). Eighteen (37.5%) of 48 tumor tissues were found to be hypermethylated on the RELN gene promoter. Moreover, analysis of clinical data revealed an inverse correlation between RELN expression and HCC recurrence. CONCLUSIONS The present study indicates that our in-house double-combination array is an effective and convenient technique in detecting novel genes with altered expression in disease. We suggest RELN is a key regulatory gene associated with the recurrence of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukiyasu Okamura
- Department of Surgery II, Graduate School and Medicine, University of Nagoya, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Whittaker S, Marais R, Zhu AX. The role of signaling pathways in the development and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncogene 2010; 29:4989-5005. [PMID: 20639898 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 656] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly prevalent, treatment-resistant malignancy with a multifaceted molecular pathogenesis. Current evidence indicates that during hepatocarcinogenesis, two main pathogenic mechanisms prevail: (1) cirrhosis associated with hepatic regeneration after tissue damage caused by hepatitis infection, toxins (for example, alcohol or aflatoxin) or metabolic influences, and (2) mutations occurring in single or multiple oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Both mechanisms have been linked with alterations in several important cellular signaling pathways. These pathways are of interest from a therapeutic perspective, because targeting them may help to reverse, delay or prevent tumorigenesis. In this review, we explore some of the major pathways implicated in HCC. These include the RAF/MEK/ERK pathway, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, WNT/beta-catenin pathway, insulin-like growth factor pathway, hepatocyte growth factor/c-MET pathway and growth factor-regulated angiogenic signaling. We focus on the role of these pathways in hepatocarcinogenesis, how they are altered, and the consequences of these abnormalities. In addition, we also review the latest preclinical and clinical data on the rationally designed targeted agents that are now being directed against these pathways, with early evidence of success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Whittaker
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Midorikawa Y, Sugiyama Y, Aburatani H. Molecular targets for liver cancer therapy: From screening of target genes to clinical trials. Hepatol Res 2010; 40:49-60. [PMID: 19788683 DOI: 10.1111/j.1872-034x.2009.00583.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cancer arises from the accumulation of genetic alterations, and the inactivation of oncogenes, or recovery of suppressor genes, are promising strategies for cancer treatment. Genome-based drug research starts with identification of target genes and is accomplished by exploitation of target-based drugs such as monoclonal antibodies, small molecules and antisense drugs. Recently, clinical trials for treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been performed, and the effectiveness of sorafenib, an oral multikinase inhibitor of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor and Ras kinase, has been demonstrated. In addition to known target genes, microarray technology has enabled us to constitute novel therapeutic targets, and many researchers have applied this technology in studies of HCC and have identified candidate target genes, validated to affect cell growth. In addition, promoter arrays for whole-genome epigenetic aberration analysis, ChIP-chip analysis using tiling arrays, and high-throughput sequencing systems have been applied to drug discovery. To elucidate the status of therapeutic target genes in vivo, development of diagnostic markers for stratification of patients is a pressing need. Here, we review recent advances in microarray technology for liver cancer, discuss the innovations and approaches to therapeutic target discovery, and present data regarding the outcome of gene target therapy using monoclonal antibodies and molecular diagnostic markers in our laboratory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Midorikawa
- Department of Surgery, Teikyo University School of Medicine University Hospital, Mizonokuchi, Kawasaki
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Okamura Y, Nomoto S, Kanda M, Li Q, Nishikawa Y, Sugimoto H, Kanazumi N, Takeda S, Nakao A. Leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR) is detected as a novel suppressor gene of hepatocellular carcinoma using double-combination array. Cancer Lett 2009; 289:170-7. [PMID: 19733004 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2009.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2009] [Revised: 07/21/2009] [Accepted: 08/10/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the world's top five causes of cancer-related deaths and treatment options are limited in this type of cancer. In the present study, we attempt to identify the novel suppressor genes of HCC using a double-combination array we designed. Leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR) is one of suppressor genes using this method. We found that 23 of 48 (47.9%) tumor tissues showed promoter hypermethylation of LIFR gene, and the expression level was clearly reduced in tumor tissues (P<0.0001). The present study suggests that our method is a meaning technique able to detect novel genes and that LIFR gene is a new suppressor gene of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukiyasu Okamura
- Department of Surgery II, Graduate School and Medicine, University of Nagoya, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Gramantieri L, Fornari F, Callegari E, Sabbioni S, Lanza G, Croce CM, Bolondi L, Negrini M. MicroRNA involvement in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cell Mol Med 2009; 12:2189-204. [PMID: 19120703 PMCID: PMC4514099 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2008.00533.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Curative options for HCC are limited and exclusively available for patients carrying an early stage HCC. In advanced stages, traditional chemotherapy proved to be only marginally effective or even toxic. Thus, the identification of new treatment options is needed. New targets for non-conventional treatment will necessarily take advantage of progresses on the molecular pathogenesis of HCC. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of tiny RNAs with a fundamental role in the regulation of gene expression. Aberrant expression of several miRNAs was found to be involved in human hepatocarcinogenesis. miRNA expression signatures were correlated with bio-pathological and clinical features of HCC. In some cases, aberrantly expressed miRNAs could be linked to cancer-associated pathways, indicating a direct role in liver tumourigenesis. For example, up-regulation of mir-221 and mir-21 could promote cell cycle progression, reduce cell death and favour angiogenesis and invasion. These findings suggest that miRNAs could become novel molecular targets for HCC treatment. The demonstration of in vivo efficacy and safety of anti-miRNA compounds has opened the way to their use in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gramantieri
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Midorikawa Y, Sugiyama Y, Aburatani H. Screening of liver-targeted drugs. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2008; 3:643-54. [DOI: 10.1517/17460441.3.6.643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
46
|
Huang YS, Dai Y, Yu XF, Bao SY, Yin YB, Tang M, Hu CX. Microarray analysis of microRNA expression in hepatocellular carcinoma and non-tumorous tissues without viral hepatitis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2008; 23:87-94. [PMID: 18171346 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2007.05223.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNA molecules of 21-24 nt that regulate the expression of target genes in a post-transcriptional manner. Evidence indicates that miRNAs play essential roles in embryogenesis, cell differentiation, and pathogenesis of human diseases including cancer. METHODS We analyzed the miRNA expression profiles in 10 pairs of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and adjacent non-tumorous tissue (NT) from 10 non-viral hepatitis patients, using a mammalian miRNA microarray containing whole human mature and precursor miRNA sequences. RESULTS A total of 15 miRNAs exhibited higher expression in the HCC samples than that in the NT samples, and one miRNA demonstrated lower expression in the HCC samples than in the NT samples. A total of 18 miRNAs identified valid expression only in HCC samples, with six only in NT samples. The chip results were confirmed by Northern blot analysis. CONCLUSION Our study may help clarify the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of HCC, and miRNAs potentially serve as a novel diagnostic tool of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Shuai Huang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Midorikawa Y, Makuuchi M, Tang W, Aburatani H. Microarray-based analysis for hepatocellular carcinoma: From gene expression profiling to new challenges. World J Gastroenterol 2007; 13:1487-92. [PMID: 17461438 PMCID: PMC4146888 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v13.i10.1487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of mutations and alterations in the expression of various genes result in carcinogenesis, and the development of microarray technology has enabled us to identify the comprehensive gene expression alterations in oncogenesis. Many studies have applied this technology for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and identified a number of candidate genes useful as biomarkers in cancer staging, prediction of recurrence and prognosis, and treatment selection. Some of these target molecules have been used to develop new serum diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets against HCC to benefit patients. Previously, we compared gene expression profiling data with classification based on clinicopathological features, such as hepatitis viral infection or liver cancer progression. The next era of gene expression analysis will require systematic integration of expression profiles with other types of biological information, such as genomic locus, gene function, and sequence information. We have reported integration between expression profiles and locus information, which is effective in detecting structural genomic abnormalities, such as chromosomal gains and losses, in which we showed that gene expression profiles are subject to chromosomal bias. Furthermore, array-based comparative genomic hybridization analysis and allelic dosage analysis using genotyping arrays for HCC were also reviewed, with comparison of conventional methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Midorikawa
- Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Breuhahn K, Longerich T, Schirmacher P. Dysregulation of growth factor signaling in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncogene 2006; 25:3787-800. [PMID: 16799620 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1209556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 432] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of pleiotropic growth factors, receptors and their downstream signaling pathway components represent a central protumorigenic principle in human hepatocarcinogenesis. Especially the Insulin-like Growth Factor/IGF-1 receptor (IGF/IGF-1R), Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF/MET), Wingless (Wnt/beta-catenin/FZD), Transforming Growth Factor alpha/Epidermal Growth Factor receptor (TGFalpha/EGFR) and Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGFbeta/TbetaR) pathways contribute to proliferation, antiapoptosis and invasive behavior of tumor cells. This review focuses on the relevant alterations in these pathways identified in human human hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs). Resultant functional effects are modulated by multiple cross-talks between the different signaling pathways and additional tumor-relevant factors, such as cyclooxygenase-2 and p53. Several specific strategies are currently under development such as receptor kinase inhibitors, neutralizing antibodies and antagonistic proteins, which may improve the systemic treatment of human HCCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Breuhahn
- Institute of Pathology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Lasagna N, Fantappiè O, Solazzo M, Morbidelli L, Marchetti S, Cipriani G, Ziche M, Mazzanti R. Hepatocyte growth factor and inducible nitric oxide synthase are involved in multidrug resistance-induced angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. Cancer Res 2006; 66:2673-82. [PMID: 16510587 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-05-2290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Based on literature, it is possible to hypothesize that multidrug resistance (MDR) and angiogenic phenotypes are linked to each other in human liver cancer cells. Our goal is to assess whether MDR cells trigger angiogenesis and to study the possible molecular mechanisms involved. Conditioned medium from parental drug-sensitive P5 cells (P5-CM) and MDR-positive P1(0.5) cells [P1(0.5)-CM] stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) survival, proliferation, migration, and microtubular structure formation, but P1(0.5)-CM had a significantly greater effect than P5-CM. Cell implants were done in the rabbit avascular cornea to measure angiogenesis in vivo: P1(0.5) cells induced an important neovascular response in rabbit cornea after 1 week, whereas P5 cells had no effect. P1(0.5) and P5 cells produced vascular endothelial growth factor, but only P1(0.5) secreted hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) into the medium, and small interfering RNA specific for MDR1 clearly reduced HGF production in P1(0.5) cells. The transcription factor Ets-1 and the HGF receptor c-Met were up-regulated in P1(0.5) cells and in HUVEC cultured in P1(0.5)-CM. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) seemed to play a major role in the proangiogenic effect of P1(0.5), and its inhibition by 1400W blunted the capacity of P1(0.5) cells to stimulate HUVEC proliferation, migration, and Ets-1 expression. In conclusion, these data show that development of MDR and angiogenic phenotypes are linked to each other in MDR cells. HGF production, Ets-1 and c-Met up-regulation, and iNOS expression can be part of the molecular mechanisms that enhance the angiogenic activity of the MDR-positive hepatocellular carcinoma cell line.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Lasagna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate School in Oncology, DENOthe, University of Florence, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Zhang SZ, Pan FY, Xu JF, Yuan J, Guo SY, Dai G, Xue B, Shen WG, Wen CJ, Zhao DH, Li CJ. Knockdown of c-Met by adenovirus-delivered small interfering RNA inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma growth in vitro and in vivo. Mol Cancer Ther 2005; 4:1577-84. [PMID: 16227408 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-05-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
c-Met is highly expressed and constitutively activated in various human tumors. We employed adenovirus-mediated RNA interference technique to knock down c-Met expression in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and observed its effects on hepatocellular carcinoma cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Among the five hepatocellular carcinoma and one normal human liver cell lines we analyzed, c-Met was highly expressed and constitutively tyrosine phosphorylated in only MHCC97-L and HCCLM3 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Knockdown of c-Met could inhibit MHCC97-L cells proliferation by arresting cells at G0-G1 phase. Soft agar colony formation assay indicated that the colony forming ability of MHCC97-L cells decreased by approximately 70% after adenovirus AdH1-small interfering RNA (siRNA)/met infection. In vivo experiments showed that adenovirus AdH1-siRNA/met inhibited the tumorigenicity of MHCC97-L cells and significantly suppressed tumor growth when injected directly into tumors. These results suggest that knockdown of c-Met by adenovirus-delivered siRNA may be a potential therapeutic strategy for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma in which c-Met is overexpressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Zhou Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210097, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|