1
|
Schiedlauske K, Deipenbrock A, Pflieger M, Hamacher A, Hänsel J, Kassack MU, Kurz T, Teusch NE. Novel Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Inhibitor Induces Apoptosis and Suppresses Invasion via E-Cadherin Upregulation in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:752. [PMID: 38931419 PMCID: PMC11206922 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most lethal form of pancreatic cancer characterized by therapy resistance and early metastasis, resulting in a low survival rate. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors showed potential for the treatment of hematological malignancies. In PDAC, the overexpression of HDAC 2 is associated with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), principally accompanied by the downregulation of the epithelial marker E-cadherin and increased metastatic capacity. The effector cytokine transforming growth factor-β (TGF β) is known to be a major inducer of the EMT in PDAC, leading to high metastatic and invasive potential. In addition, the overexpression of HDAC 6 in PDAC is associated with reduced apoptosis. Here, we have demonstrated that a novel HDAC 2/6 inhibitor not only significantly increased E-cadherin expression in PANC-1 cells (5.5-fold) and in 3D PDAC co-culture spheroids (2.5-fold) but was also able to reverse the TGF-β-induced downregulation of E-cadherin expression. Moreover, our study indicates that the HDAC inhibitor mediated re-differentiation resulting in a significant inhibition of tumor cell invasion by approximately 60% compared to control. In particular, we have shown that the HDAC inhibitor induces both apoptosis (2-fold) and cell cycle arrest. In conclusion, the HDAC 2/6 inhibitor acts by suppressing invasion via upregulating E-cadherin mediated by HDAC 2 blockade and by inducing cell cycle arrest leading to apoptosis via HDAC 6 inhibition. These results suggest that the HDAC 2/6 inhibitor might represent a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of PDAC tumorigenesis and metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katja Schiedlauske
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Biotechnology, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alina Deipenbrock
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Biotechnology, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marc Pflieger
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexandra Hamacher
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jan Hänsel
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Biotechnology, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Matthias U. Kassack
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nicole E. Teusch
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Biotechnology, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tuncer Z, Kurar E, Duran T. Investigation of the effect of belinostat on MCF-7 breast cancer stem cells via the Wnt, Notch, and Hedgehog signaling pathway. Saudi Med J 2024; 45:121-127. [PMID: 38309728 PMCID: PMC11115415 DOI: 10.15537/smj.2024.45.2.20230478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate belinostat's (PXD101) activity on MCF-7 breast cancer stem cells (CSCs) via Wnt, Notch, and Hedgehog. METHODS This research study was carried out at the Department of Medical Biology, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey, from June 2017 to July 2019. The effect of PXD101 on MCF-7 cell viability was determined by cell proliferation kit (XTT). Following belinostat treatment, CD44+/CD24- MCF-7 CSCs were isolated by FACS. Ribonucleic acid isolation and copy-deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis were carried out using HEK-293 cells, MCF-7 cells, and MCF-7 CSCs. Expression changes of metastasis-related genes, Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, and stem cell markers were analysed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The IC50 in MCF-7 cancer cells was 5 μM for 48 hours. The FACS analysis indicated that 2% of the MCF-7 cancer cells were CSCs. Following belinostat treatment, the MCF-7 cell count decreased by 44%, and the MCF-7 CD44+/CD24- CSC count decreased by 66%. RESULTS Belinostat treatment reduced the expression of metastasis, Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog, and stem cell marker genes. CONCLUSION Belinostat has a potential effect on the differentiation and self-renewal of breast CSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeliha Tuncer
- From the Department of Medical Biology (Tuncer, Kurar), Meram Faculty of Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University, from the Department of Medical Biology (Tuncer); and from the Department of Medical Genetics (Duran), Faculty of Medicine, KTO Karatay University, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Ercan Kurar
- From the Department of Medical Biology (Tuncer, Kurar), Meram Faculty of Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University, from the Department of Medical Biology (Tuncer); and from the Department of Medical Genetics (Duran), Faculty of Medicine, KTO Karatay University, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Tugçe Duran
- From the Department of Medical Biology (Tuncer, Kurar), Meram Faculty of Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University, from the Department of Medical Biology (Tuncer); and from the Department of Medical Genetics (Duran), Faculty of Medicine, KTO Karatay University, Konya, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li D, Liang H, Wei Y, Xiao H, Peng X, Pan W. Exploring the potential of histone demethylase inhibition in multi-therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:115999. [PMID: 38043489 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Histone demethylases play a critical role in gene transcription regulation and have been implicated in cancer. Numerous reports have highlighted the overexpression of histone demethylases, such as LSD1 and JmjC, in various malignant tumor tissues, identifying them as effective therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Despite many histone demethylase inhibitors entering clinical trials, their clinical efficacy has been limited. Therefore, combination therapies based on histone demethylase inhibitors, along with other modulators like dual-acting inhibitors, have gained significant attention and made notable progress in recent years. In this review, we provide an overview of recent advances in drug discovery targeting histone demethylases, focusing specifically on drug combination therapy and histone demethylases-targeting dual inhibitors. We discuss the rational design, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and clinical status of these approaches. Additionally, we summarize the co-crystal structures of LSD1 inhibitors and their target proteins as well as describe the corresponding binding interactions. Finally, we also provided the challenges and future directions for utilizing histone demethylases in cancer therapy, such as PROTACs and molecular glue etc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Hailiu Liang
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Yifei Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Hao Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
| | - Xiaopeng Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
| | - Wanyi Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Krenn PW, Aberger F. Targeting cancer hallmark vulnerabilities in hematologic malignancies by interfering with Hedgehog/GLI signaling. Blood 2023; 142:1945-1959. [PMID: 37595276 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021014761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the genetic alterations, disrupted signaling pathways, and hijacked mechanisms in oncogene-transformed hematologic cells is critical for the development of effective and durable treatment strategies against liquid tumors. In this review, we focus on the specific involvement of the Hedgehog (HH)/GLI pathway in the manifestation and initiation of various cancer features in hematologic malignancies, including multiple myeloma, T- and B-cell lymphomas, and lymphoid and myeloid leukemias. By reviewing canonical and noncanonical, Smoothened-independent HH/GLI signaling and summarizing preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies in hematologic malignancies, we elucidate common molecular mechanisms by which HH/GLI signaling controls key oncogenic processes and cancer hallmarks such as cell proliferation, cancer stem cell fate, genomic instability, microenvironment remodeling, and cell survival. We also summarize current clinical trials with HH inhibitors and discuss successes and challenges, as well as opportunities for future combined therapeutic approaches. By providing a bird's eye view of the role of HH/GLI signaling in liquid tumors, we suggest that a comprehensive understanding of the general oncogenic effects of HH/GLI signaling on the formation of cancer hallmarks is essential to identify critical vulnerabilities within tumor cells and their supporting remodeled microenvironment, paving the way for the development of novel and efficient personalized combination therapies for hematologic malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter W Krenn
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fritz Aberger
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Maresca L, Crivaro E, Migliorini F, Anichini G, Giammona A, Pepe S, Poggialini F, Vagaggini C, Giannini G, Sestini S, Borgognoni L, Lapucci A, Dreassi E, Taddei M, Manetti F, Petricci E, Stecca B. Targeting GLI1 and GLI2 with small molecule inhibitors to suppress GLI-dependent transcription and tumor growth. Pharmacol Res 2023; 195:106858. [PMID: 37473878 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Hedgehog (HH) signaling in cancer is the result of genetic alterations of upstream pathway components (canonical) or other oncogenic mechanisms (noncanonical), that ultimately concur to activate the zinc-finger transcription factors GLI1 and GLI2. Therefore, inhibition of GLI activity is a good therapeutic option to suppress both canonical and noncanonical activation of the HH pathway. However, only a few GLI inhibitors are available, and none of them have the profile required for clinical development due to poor metabolic stability and aqueous solubility, and high hydrophobicity. Two promising quinoline inhibitors of GLI were selected by virtual screening and subjected to hit-to-lead optimization, thus leading to the identification of the 4-methoxy-8-hydroxyquinoline derivative JC19. This molecule impaired GLI1 and GLI2 activities in several cellular models interfering with the binding of GLI1 and GLI2 to DNA. JC19 suppressed cancer cell proliferation by enhancing apoptosis, inducing a strong anti-tumor response in several cancer cell lines in vitro. Specificity towards GLI1 and GLI2 was demonstrated by lower activity of JC19 in GLI1- or GLI2-depleted cancer cells. JC19 showed excellent metabolic stability and high passive permeability. Notably, JC19 inhibited GLI1-dependent melanoma xenograft growth in vivo, with no evidence of toxic effects in mice. These results highlight the potential of JC19 as a novel anti-cancer agent targeting GLI1 and GLI2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Maresca
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Enrica Crivaro
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy; Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Migliorini
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Anichini
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Giammona
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Pepe
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Federica Poggialini
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Vagaggini
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Serena Sestini
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit Regional Melanoma Referral Center and Melanoma & Skin Cancer Unit, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Borgognoni
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit Regional Melanoma Referral Center and Melanoma & Skin Cancer Unit, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Lapucci
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Dreassi
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Taddei
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Elena Petricci
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Barbara Stecca
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wang X, Xu J, Sun Y, Cao S, Zeng H, Jin N, Shou M, Tang S, Chen Y, Huang M. Hedgehog pathway orchestrates the interplay of histone modifications and tailors combination epigenetic therapies in breast cancer. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:2601-2612. [PMID: 37425067 PMCID: PMC10326305 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic therapies that cause genome-wide epigenetic alterations, could trigger local interplay between different histone marks, leading to a switch of transcriptional outcome and therapeutic responses of epigenetic treatment. However, in human cancers with diverse oncogenic activation, how oncogenic pathways cooperate with epigenetic modifiers to regulate the histone mark interplay is poorly understood. We herein discover that the hedgehog (Hh) pathway reprograms the histone methylation landscape in breast cancer, especially in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). This facilitates the histone acetylation caused by histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors and gives rise to new therapeutic vulnerability of combination therapies. Specifically, overexpression of zinc finger protein of the cerebellum 1 (ZIC1) in breast cancer promotes Hh activation, facilitating the switch of H3K27 methylation (H3K27me) to acetylation (H3K27ac). The mutually exclusive relationship of H3K27me and H3K27ac allows their functional interplay at oncogenic gene locus and switches therapeutic outcomes. Using multiple in vivo breast cancer models including patient-derived TNBC xenograft, we show that Hh signaling-orchestrated H3K27me and H3K27ac interplay tailors combination epigenetic drugs in treating breast cancer. Together, this study reveals the new role of Hh signaling-regulated histone modifications interplay in responding to HDAC inhibitors and suggests new epigenetically-targeted therapeutic solutions for treating TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Wang
- Cancer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Cancer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yiming Sun
- Cancer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Siyuwei Cao
- Cancer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hanlin Zeng
- Cancer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Nan Jin
- Cancer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Matthew Shou
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Shuai Tang
- Cancer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Cancer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Min Huang
- Cancer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
4SC-202 exerts an anti-tumor effect in cervical cancer by targeting PRLR signaling pathway. J Mol Histol 2022; 53:891-902. [PMID: 36272045 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-022-10105-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to investigate whether 4SC-202, a selective class I histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), plays an anti-tumor role in cervical cancer (CC) by targeting prolactin receptor (PRLR). CCK-8 and colony formation assays were used to evaluate the effects of 4SC-202 on the proliferation of CC cells in vitro. Effects of 4SC-202 on the cell cycle distribution and apoptosis in SiHa cells were determined by flow cytometry and western blotting, respectively. Immunofluorescence, western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were performed to detect the activities of PRLR-related pathways and PRLR expression in CC cells. A xenograft tumor model in nude mice was established to examine effects of 4SC-202 on the tumor growth, apoptosis and PRLR-related pathways in vivo. The biochemical analyzer and H&E staining were used to detect the serum biochemical indexes and organ toxicity. 4SC-202 inhibited the proliferation of CC cells (SiHa, HeLa, and CaSki) in vitro in a time- and dose-dependent manner. SiHa cells were treated with 1 or 5 µM 4SC-202 for 72 h and then subjected to various functional assays. The assays showed that 4SC-202 significantly induced G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis, while inhibiting the activities of PRLR-related pathways and PRLR expression. In addition, 4SC-202 reduced tumor growth and induced apoptosis in vivo. 4SC-202 down-regulated the expression of PRLR and activities of PRLR-related pathways in the mouse model, displayed no effects on serum biochemical indicators and caused no toxicity to mouse organs. This finding suggests that 4SC-202 may serve as a novel therapeutic agent for CC.
Collapse
|
8
|
Can We Efficiently Target HDAC in Cancer? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14164058. [PMID: 36011050 PMCID: PMC9406325 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14164058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
9
|
Tesanovic S, Krenn PW, Aberger F. Hedgehog/GLI signaling in hematopoietic development and acute myeloid leukemia—From bench to bedside. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:944760. [PMID: 35990601 PMCID: PMC9388743 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.944760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
While the underlying genetic alterations and biology of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), an aggressive hematologic malignancy characterized by clonal expansion of undifferentiated myeloid cells, have been gradually unraveled in the last decades, translation into clinical treatment approaches has only just begun. High relapse rates remain a major challenge in AML therapy and are to a large extent attributed to the persistence of treatment-resistant leukemic stem cells (LSCs). The Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway is crucial for the development and progression of multiple cancer stem cell driven tumors, including AML, and has therefore gained interest as a therapeutic target. In this review, we give an overview of the major components of the HH signaling pathway, dissect HH functions in normal and malignant hematopoiesis, and specifically elaborate on the role of HH signaling in AML pathogenesis and resistance. Furthermore, we summarize preclinical and clinical HH inhibitor studies, leading to the approval of the HH pathway inhibitor glasdegib, in combination with low-dose cytarabine, for AML treatment.
Collapse
|
10
|
Nakagawa-Saito Y, Saitoh S, Mitobe Y, Sugai A, Togashi K, Suzuki S, Kitanaka C, Okada M. HDAC Class I Inhibitor Domatinostat Preferentially Targets Glioma Stem Cells over Their Differentiated Progeny. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158084. [PMID: 35897656 PMCID: PMC9332065 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are in general characterized by higher resistance to cell death and cancer therapies than non-stem differentiated cancer cells. However, we and others have recently revealed using glioma stem cells (GSCs) as a model that, unexpectedly, CSCs have specific vulnerabilities that make them more sensitive to certain drugs compared with their differentiated counterparts. We aimed in this study to discover novel drugs targeting such Achilles’ heels of GSCs as anti-GSC drug candidates to be used for the treatment of glioblastoma, the most therapy-resistant form of brain tumors. Here we report that domatinostat (4SC-202), a class I HDAC inhibitor, is one such candidate. At concentrations where it showed no or minimal growth inhibitory effect on differentiated GSCs and normal cells, domatinostat effectively inhibited the growth of GSCs mainly by inducing apoptosis. Furthermore, GSCs that survived domatinostat treatment lost their self-renewal capacity. These results suggested that domatinostat is a unique drug that selectively eliminates GSCs not only physically by inducing cell death but also functionally by inhibiting their self-renewal. Our findings also imply that class I HDACs and/or LSD1, another target of domatinostat, may possibly have a specific role in the maintenance of GSCs and therefore could be an attractive target in the development of anti-GSC therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yurika Nakagawa-Saito
- Department of Molecular Cancer Science, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan; (Y.N.-S.); (Y.M.); (A.S.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
| | - Shinichi Saitoh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan;
| | - Yuta Mitobe
- Department of Molecular Cancer Science, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan; (Y.N.-S.); (Y.M.); (A.S.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Asuka Sugai
- Department of Molecular Cancer Science, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan; (Y.N.-S.); (Y.M.); (A.S.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
| | - Keita Togashi
- Department of Molecular Cancer Science, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan; (Y.N.-S.); (Y.M.); (A.S.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Shuhei Suzuki
- Department of Molecular Cancer Science, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan; (Y.N.-S.); (Y.M.); (A.S.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
- Department of Clinical Oncology, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Chifumi Kitanaka
- Department of Molecular Cancer Science, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan; (Y.N.-S.); (Y.M.); (A.S.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
- Research Institute for Promotion of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
- Correspondence: (C.K.); (M.O.); Tel.: +81-23-628-5212 (C.K.); +81-23-628-5214 (M.O.)
| | - Masashi Okada
- Department of Molecular Cancer Science, School of Medicine, Yamagata University, 2-2-2 Iida-nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan; (Y.N.-S.); (Y.M.); (A.S.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
- Correspondence: (C.K.); (M.O.); Tel.: +81-23-628-5212 (C.K.); +81-23-628-5214 (M.O.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Roca MS, Moccia T, Iannelli F, Testa C, Vitagliano C, Minopoli M, Camerlingo R, De Riso G, De Cecio R, Bruzzese F, Conte M, Altucci L, Di Gennaro E, Avallone A, Leone A, Budillon A. HDAC class I inhibitor domatinostat sensitizes pancreatic cancer to chemotherapy by targeting cancer stem cell compartment via FOXM1 modulation. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:83. [PMID: 35241126 PMCID: PMC8892808 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02295-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents an unmet clinical need due to the very poor prognosis and the lack of effective therapy. Here we investigated the potential of domatinostat (4SC-202), a new class I histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, currently in clinical development, to sensitize PDAC to first line standard gemcitabine (G)/taxol (T) doublet chemotherapy treatment. METHODS Synergistic anti-tumor effect of the combined treatment was assessed in PANC1, ASPC1 and PANC28 PDAC cell lines in vitro as well as on tumor spheroids and microtissues, by evaluating combination index (CI), apoptosis, clonogenic capability. The data were confirmed in vivo xenograft models of PANC28 and PANC1 cells in athymic mice. Cancer stem cells (CSC) targeting was studied by mRNA and protein expression of CSC markers, by limiting dilution assay, and by flow cytometric and immunofluorescent evaluation of CSC mitochondrial and cellular oxidative stress. Mechanistic role of forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) and downstream targets was evaluated in FOXM1-overexpressing PDAC cells. RESULTS We showed that domatinostat sensitized in vitro and in vivo models of PDAC to chemotherapeutics commonly used in PDAC patients management and particularly to GT doublet, by targeting CSC compartment through the induction of mitochondrial and cellular oxidative stress. Mechanistically, we showed that domatinostat hampers the expression and function of FOXM1, a transcription factor playing a crucial role in stemness, oxidative stress modulation and DNA repair. Domatinostat reduced FOXM1 protein levels by downregulating mRNA expression and inducing proteasome-mediated protein degradation thus preventing nuclear translocation correlated with a reduction of FOXM1 target genes. Furthermore, by overexpressing FOXM1 in PDAC cells we significantly reduced domatinostat-inducing oxidative mitochondrial and cellular stress and abolished GT sensitization, both in adherent and spheroid cells, confirming FOXM1 crucial role in the mechanisms described. Finally, we found a correlation of FOXM1 expression with poor progression free survival in PDAC chemotherapy-treated patients. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we suggest a novel therapeutic strategy based on domatinostat to improve efficacy and to overcome resistance of commonly used chemotherapeutics in PDAC that warrant further clinical evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Serena Roca
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Tania Moccia
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Iannelli
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Testa
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Vitagliano
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Minopoli
- Neoplastic Progression Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Camerlingo
- Cell Biology and Biotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Giulia De Riso
- Department of molecular medicine and medical biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rossella De Cecio
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Bruzzese
- Animal Facility, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Conte
- Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.,BIOGEM, (AV), Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Di Gennaro
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Avallone
- Experimental Clinical Abdominal Oncology; Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Leone
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Alfredo Budillon
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Doan HQ, Chen L, Nawas Z, Lee HH, Silapunt S, Migden M. Switching Hedgehog inhibitors and other strategies to address resistance when treating advanced basal cell carcinoma. Oncotarget 2021; 12:2089-2100. [PMID: 34611482 PMCID: PMC8487719 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Although basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is often managed successfully with surgery, patients with locally advanced BCC (laBCC) or metastatic BCC (mBCC) who are not candidates for surgery or radiotherapy have limited treatment options. Most BCCs result from aberrant Hedgehog pathway activation in keratinocyte tumor cells, caused by sporadic or inherited mutations. Mutations in the patched homologue 1 gene that remove its inhibitory regulation of Smoothened homologue (SMO) or mutations in SMO that make it constitutively active, lead to Hedgehog pathway dysregulation and downstream activation of GLI1/2 transcription factors, promoting cell differentiation and proliferation. Hedgehog inhibitors (HHIs) block overactive signaling of this pathway by inhibiting SMO and are currently the only approved treatments for advanced BCC. Two small-molecule SMO inhibitors, vismodegib and sonidegib, have shown efficacy and safety in clinical trials of advanced BCC patients. Although these agents are effective and tolerable for many patients, HHI resistance occurs in some patients. Mechanisms of resistance include mutations in SMO, noncanonical cell identity switching leading to tumor cell resistance, and non-canonical pathway crosstalk causing Hedgehog pathway activation. Approaches to managing HHI resistance include switching HHIs, HHI and radiotherapy combination therapy, photodynamic therapy, and targeting Hedgehog pathway downstream effectors. Increasing understanding of the control of downstream effectors has identified new therapy targets and potential agents for evaluation in BCC. Identification of biomarkers of resistance or response is needed to optimize HHI use in patients with advanced BCC. This review examines HHI resistance, its underlying mechanisms, and methods of management for patients with advanced BCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hung Q Doan
- Department of Dermatology, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Dermatology, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Leon Chen
- US Dermatology Partners, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zeena Nawas
- Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Heng-Huan Lee
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sirunya Silapunt
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael Migden
- Department of Dermatology, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Dermatology, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA.,Departments of Dermatology and Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Torres HM, VanCleave AM, Vollmer M, Callahan DL, Smithback A, Conn JM, Rodezno-Antunes T, Gao Z, Cao Y, Afeworki Y, Tao J. Selective Targeting of Class I Histone Deacetylases in a Model of Human Osteosarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4199. [PMID: 34439353 PMCID: PMC8394112 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of histone deacetylases (HDACs) is associated with the pathogenesis of human osteosarcoma, which may present an epigenetic vulnerability as well as a therapeutic target. Domatinostat (4SC-202) is a next-generation class I HDAC inhibitor that is currently being used in clinical research for certain cancers, but its impact on human osteosarcoma has yet to be explored. In this study, we report that 4SC-202 inhibits osteosarcoma cell growth in vitro and in vivo. By analyzing cell function in vitro, we show that the anti-tumor effect of 4SC-202 involves the combined induction of cell-cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and apoptotic program, as well as a reduction in cell invasion and migration capabilities. We also found that 4SC-202 has little capacity to promote osteogenic differentiation. Remarkably, 4SC-202 revised the global transcriptome and induced distinct signatures of gene expression in vitro. Moreover, 4SC-202 decreased tumor growth of established human tumor xenografts in immunodeficient mice in vivo. We further reveal key targets regulated by 4SC-202 that contribute to tumor cell growth and survival, and canonical signaling pathways associated with progression and metastasis of osteosarcoma. Our study suggests that 4SC-202 may be exploited as a valuable drug to promote more effective treatment of patients with osteosarcoma and provide molecular insights into the mechanism of action of class I HDAC inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haydee M. Torres
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies Group at Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA; (H.M.T.); (A.M.V.); (T.R.-A.); (Y.C.)
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Ashley M. VanCleave
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies Group at Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA; (H.M.T.); (A.M.V.); (T.R.-A.); (Y.C.)
| | - Mykayla Vollmer
- Medical Student Research Program, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA;
| | - Dakota L. Callahan
- Sanford Program for Undergraduate Research, University of Sioux Falls, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA;
| | - Austyn Smithback
- Sanford PROMISE Scholar Program, Harrisburg High School, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA;
| | - Josephine M. Conn
- Sanford Program for Undergraduate Research, Carleton College, Northfield, MN 55057, USA;
| | - Tania Rodezno-Antunes
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies Group at Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA; (H.M.T.); (A.M.V.); (T.R.-A.); (Y.C.)
| | - Zili Gao
- Flow Cytometry Core at Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA;
| | - Yuxia Cao
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies Group at Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA; (H.M.T.); (A.M.V.); (T.R.-A.); (Y.C.)
| | - Yohannes Afeworki
- Functional Genomics & Bioinformatics Core Facility at Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA;
| | - Jianning Tao
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies Group at Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA; (H.M.T.); (A.M.V.); (T.R.-A.); (Y.C.)
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chow RY, Jeon US, Levee TM, Kaur G, Cedeno DP, Doan LT, Atwood SX. PI3K Promotes Basal Cell Carcinoma Growth Through Kinase-Induced p21 Degradation. Front Oncol 2021; 11:668247. [PMID: 34268113 PMCID: PMC8276170 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.668247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a locally invasive epithelial cancer that is primarily driven by the Hedgehog (HH) pathway. Advanced BCCs are a critical subset of BCCs that frequently acquire resistance to Smoothened (SMO) inhibitors and identifying pathways that bypass SMO could provide alternative treatments for patients with advanced or metastatic BCC. Here, we use a combination of RNA-sequencing analysis of advanced human BCC tumor-normal pairs and immunostaining of human and mouse BCC samples to identify a PI3K pathway expression signature in BCC. Pharmacological inhibition of PI3K activity in BCC cells significantly reduces cell proliferation and HH signaling. However, treatment of Ptch1fl/fl; Gli1-CreERT2 mouse BCCs with the PI3K inhibitor BKM120 results in a reduction of tumor cell growth with no significant effect on HH signaling. Downstream PI3K components aPKC and Akt1 showed a reduction in active protein, whereas their substrate, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21, showed a concomitant increase in protein stability. Our results suggest that PI3K promotes BCC tumor growth by kinase-induced p21 degradation without altering HH signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Y Chow
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Ung Seop Jeon
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Taylor M Levee
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Gurleen Kaur
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Daniel P Cedeno
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Linda T Doan
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Scott X Atwood
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States.,Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States.,Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mo J, Liu F, Sun X, Huang H, Tan K, Zhao X, Li R, Jiang W, Sui Y, Chen X, Shen K, Zhang L, Ma J, Zhao K, Tang Y. Inhibition of the FACT Complex Targets Aberrant Hedgehog Signaling and Overcomes Resistance to Smoothened Antagonists. Cancer Res 2021; 81:3105-3120. [PMID: 33853831 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-3186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Hedgehog signaling is aberrantly activated in hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, and targeting it is a promising therapeutic strategy against these cancers. Resistance to clinically available hedgehog-targeted Smoothened inhibitor (SMOi) drugs has become a critical issue in hedgehog-driven cancer treatment. Our previous studies identified inhibition of BET and CDK7 as two epigenetic/transcriptional-targeted therapeutic strategies for overcoming SMOi resistance, providing a promising direction for anti-hedgehog drug development. To uncover additional strategies for inhibiting aberrant hedgehog activity, here we performed CRISPR-Cas9 screening with an single-guide RNA library targeting epigenetic and transcriptional modulators in hedgehog-driven medulloblastoma cells, combined with tumor dataset analyses. Structure specific recognition protein 1 (SSRP1), a subunit of facilitates chromatin transcription (FACT) complex, was identified as a hedgehog-induced essential oncogene and therapeutic target in hedgehog-driven cancer. The FACT inhibitor CBL0137, which has entered clinical trials for cancer, effectively suppressed in vitro and in vivo growth of multiple SMOi-responsive and SMOi-resistant hedgehog-driven cancer models. Mechanistically, CBL0137 exerted anti-hedgehog activity by targeting transcription of GLI1 and GLI2, which are core transcription factors of the hedgehog pathway. SSRP1 bound the promoter regions of GLI1 and GLI2, while CBL0137 treatment substantially disrupted these interactions. Moreover, CBL0137 synergized with BET or CDK7 inhibitors to antagonize aberrant hedgehog pathway and growth of hedgehog-driven cancer models. Taken together, these results identify FACT inhibition as a promising epigenetic/transcriptional-targeted therapeutic strategy for treating hedgehog-driven cancers and overcoming SMOi resistance. SIGNIFICANCE: This study identifies FACT inhibition as an anti-hedgehog therapeutic strategy for overcoming resistance to Smoothened inhibitors and provides preclinical support for initiating clinical trials of FACT-targeted drug CBL0137 against hedgehog-driven cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jialin Mo
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of National Ministry of Education, Department of Pathophysiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Fang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of National Ministry of Education, Department of Pathophysiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xi Sun
- Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Hongting Huang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Kezhe Tan
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of National Ministry of Education, Department of Pathophysiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojing Zhao
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Rui Li
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of National Ministry of Education, Department of Pathophysiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Wenyan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of National Ministry of Education, Department of Pathophysiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yi Sui
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of National Ministry of Education, Department of Pathophysiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xiaosong Chen
- Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Kunwei Shen
- Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Liye Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Jie Ma
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China.
| | - Kewen Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of National Ministry of Education, Department of Pathophysiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China.
| | - Yujie Tang
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of National Ministry of Education, Department of Pathophysiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jiang X, Jiang L, Cheng J, Chen F, Ni J, Yin C, Wang Q, Wang Z, Fang D, Yi Z, Yu G, Zhong Q, Carter BZ, Meng F. Inhibition of EZH2 by chidamide exerts antileukemia activity and increases chemosensitivity through Smo/Gli-1 pathway in acute myeloid leukemia. J Transl Med 2021; 19:117. [PMID: 33743723 PMCID: PMC7981995 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-02789-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Epigenetic dysregulation plays important roles in leukemogenesis and the progression of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) reciprocally regulate the acetylation and deacetylation of nuclear histones. Aberrant activation of HDACs results in uncontrolled proliferation and blockade of differentiation, and HDAC inhibition has been investigated as epigenetic therapeutic strategy against AML. Methods Cell growth was assessed with CCK-8 assay, and apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry in AML cell lines and CD45 + and CD34 + CD38- cells from patient samples after staining with Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/propidium iodide (PI). EZH2 was silenced with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) or overexpressed by lentiviral transfection. Changes in signaling pathways were detected by western blotting. The effect of chidamide or EZH2-specific shRNA (shEZH2) in combination with adriamycin was studied in vivo in leukemia-bearing nude mouse models. Results In this study, we investigated the antileukemia effects of HDAC inhibitor chidamide and its combinatorial activity with cytotoxic agent adriamycin in AML cells. We demonstrated that chidamide suppressed the levels of EZH2, H3K27me3 and DNMT3A, exerted potential antileukemia activity and increased the sensitivity to adriamycin through disruption of Smo/Gli-1 pathway and downstream signaling target p-AKT in AML cells and stem/progenitor cells. In addition to decreasing the levels of H3K27me3 and DNMT3A, inhibition of EZH2 either pharmacologically by chidamide or genetically by shEZH2 suppressed the activity of Smo/Gli-1 pathway and increased the antileukemia activity of adriamycin against AML in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions Inhibition of EZH2 by chidamide has antileukemia activity and increases the chemosensitivity to adriamycin through Smo/Gli-1 pathway in AML cells (Fig. 5). These findings support the rational combination of HDAC inhibitors and chemotherapy for the treatment of AML. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-02789-3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuejie Jiang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ling Jiang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiaying Cheng
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinle Ni
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Changxin Yin
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhixiang Wang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Dan Fang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhengshan Yi
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Guopan Yu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingxiu Zhong
- Department of Hematology, Kanghua Hospital, Dongguan, 523080, Guangdong, China
| | - Bing Z Carter
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Fanyi Meng
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China. .,Department of Hematology, Kanghua Hospital, Dongguan, 523080, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Di Magno L, Manni S, Di Pastena F, Coni S, Macone A, Cairoli S, Sambucci M, Infante P, Moretti M, Petroni M, Nicoletti C, Capalbo C, De Smaele E, Di Marcotullio L, Giannini G, Battistini L, Goffredo BM, Iorio E, Agostinelli E, Maroder M, Canettieri G. Phenformin Inhibits Hedgehog-Dependent Tumor Growth through a Complex I-Independent Redox/Corepressor Module. Cell Rep 2021; 30:1735-1752.e7. [PMID: 32049007 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The antidiabetic drug phenformin displays potent anticancer activity in different tumors, but its mechanism of action remains elusive. Using Shh medulloblastoma as model, we show here that at clinically relevant concentrations, phenformin elicits a significant therapeutic effect through a redox-dependent but complex I-independent mechanism. Phenformin inhibits mitochondrial glycerophosphate dehydrogenase (mGPD), a component of the glycerophosphate shuttle, and causes elevations of intracellular NADH content. Inhibition of mGPD mimics phenformin action and promotes an association between corepressor CtBP2 and Gli1, thereby inhibiting Hh transcriptional output and tumor growth. Because ablation of CtBP2 abrogates the therapeutic effect of phenformin in mice, these data illustrate a biguanide-mediated redox/corepressor interplay, which may represent a relevant target for tumor therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Di Magno
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Manni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorella Di Pastena
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sonia Coni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Macone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Cairoli
- Division of Metabolism and Research Unit of metabolic Biochemistry, Children's Hospital and Research Institute Bambino Gesù IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Manolo Sambucci
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Neuroimmunology Unit, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Infante
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Moretti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marialaura Petroni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Carmine Nicoletti
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Capalbo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico De Smaele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; Istituto Pasteur, Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giannini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Battistini
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Neuroimmunology Unit, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca Maria Goffredo
- Division of Metabolism and Research Unit of metabolic Biochemistry, Children's Hospital and Research Institute Bambino Gesù IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Egidio Iorio
- Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Enzo Agostinelli
- Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; International Polyamines Foundation-ONLUS, 00159 Rome, Italy
| | - Marella Maroder
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; Istituto Pasteur, Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; International Polyamines Foundation-ONLUS, 00159 Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Chow RY, Levee TM, Kaur G, Cedeno DP, Doan LT, Atwood SX. MTOR promotes basal cell carcinoma growth through atypical PKC. Exp Dermatol 2021; 30:358-366. [PMID: 33617094 PMCID: PMC9924159 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Advanced basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are driven by the Hedgehog (HH) pathway and often possess inherent resistance to SMO inhibitors. Identifying and targeting pathways that bypass SMO could provide alternative treatments for patients with advanced or metastatic BCC. Here, we use a combination of RNA-sequencing analysis of advanced human BCC tumor-normal pairs and immunostaining of human and mouse BCC samples to identify an MTOR expression signature in BCC. Pharmacological inhibition of MTOR activity in BCC cells significantly reduces cell proliferation without affecting HH signalling. Similarly, treatment of the Ptch1 fl/fl ; Gli1-CreERT2 mouse BCC tumor model with everolimus reduces tumor growth. aPKC, a downstream target of MTOR, shows reduced activity, suggesting that MTOR promotes tumor growth by activating aPKC and demonstrating that suppressing MTOR could be a promising target for BCC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Y. Chow
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Taylor M. Levee
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Gurleen Kaur
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Daniel P. Cedeno
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Linda T. Doan
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Scott X. Atwood
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA,Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA,Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ullah MF, Usmani S, Shah A, Abuduhier FM. Dietary molecules and experimental evidence of epigenetic influence in cancer chemoprevention: An insight. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 83:319-334. [PMID: 33152485 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The world-wide rate of incidence of cancer disease has been only modestly contested by the past and current preventive and interventional strategies. Hence, the global effort towards novel ideas to contain the disease still continues. Constituents of human diets have in recent years emerged as key regulators of carcinogenesis, with studies reporting their inhibitory potential against all the three stages vis-a-vis initiation, promotion and progression. Unlike drugs which usually act on single targets, these dietary factors have an advantage of multi-targeted effects and pleiotropic action mechanisms, which are effective against cancer that manifest as a micro-evolutionary and multi-factorial disease. Since most of the cellular targets have been identified and their consumption considered relatively safe, these diet-derived agents often appear as molecules of interest in repurposing strategies. Currently, many of these molecules are being investigated for their ability to influence the aberrant alterations in cell's epigenome for epigenetic therapy against cancer. Targeting the epigenetic regulators is a new paradigm in cancer chemoprevention which acts to reverse the warped-up epigenetic alterations in a cancer cell, thereby directing it towards a normal phenotype. In this review, we discuss the significance of dietary factors and natural products as chemopreventive agents. Further, we corroborate the experimental evidence from existing literature, reflecting the ability of a series of such molecules to act as epigenetic modifiers in cancer cells, by interfering with molecular events that map the epigenetic imprints such as DNA methylation, histone acetylation and non-coding RNA mediated gene regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Fahad Ullah
- Prince Fahad Research Chair, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 71491, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Shazia Usmani
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | - Aaliya Shah
- Department of Biochemistry, SKIMS Medical College, Srinagar, India
| | - Faisel M Abuduhier
- Prince Fahad Research Chair, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 71491, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dusek CO, Hadden MK. Targeting the GLI family of transcription factors for the development of anti-cancer drugs. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2020; 16:289-302. [PMID: 33006903 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2021.1832078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION GLI1 is a transcription factor that has been identified as a downstream effector for multiple tumorigenic signaling pathways. These include the Hedgehog, RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK, and PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathways, which have all been separately validated as individual anti-cancer drug targets. The identification of GLI1 as a key transcriptional regulator for each of these pathways highlights its promise as a therapeutic target. Small molecule GLI1 inhibitors are potentially efficacious against human malignancies arising from multiple oncogenic mechanisms. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of the key oncogenic cellular pathways that regulate GLI1 transcriptional activity. It also provides a detailed account of small molecule GLI1 inhibitors that are currently under development as potential anti-cancer chemotherapeutics. EXPERT OPINION Interest in developing inhibitors of GLI1-mediated transcription has significantly increased as its role in multiple oncogenic signaling pathways has been elucidated. To date, it has proven difficult to directly target GLI1 with small molecules, and the majority of compounds that inhibit GLI1 activity function through indirect mechanisms. To date, no direct-acting GLI1 inhibitor has entered clinical trials. The identification and development of new scaffolds that can bind and directly inhibit GLI1 are essential to further advance this class of chemotherapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher O Dusek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - M Kyle Hadden
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lospinoso Severini L, Ghirga F, Bufalieri F, Quaglio D, Infante P, Di Marcotullio L. The SHH/GLI signaling pathway: a therapeutic target for medulloblastoma. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:1159-1181. [PMID: 32990091 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1823967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medulloblastoma (MB) is a heterogeneous tumor of the cerebellum that is divided into four main subgroups with distinct molecular and clinical features. Sonic Hedgehog MB (SHH-MB) is the most genetically understood and occurs predominantly in childhood. Current therapies consist of aggressive and non-targeted multimodal approaches that are often ineffective and cause long-term complications. These problems intensify the need to develop molecularly targeted therapies to improve outcome and reduce treatment-related morbidities. In this scenario, Hedgehog (HH) signaling, a developmental pathway whose deregulation is involved in the pathogenesis of several malignancies, has emerged as an attractive druggable pathway for SHH-MB therapy. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of the advancements in the HH antagonist research field. We place an emphasis on Smoothened (SMO) and glioma-associated oncogene homolog (GLI) inhibitors and immunotherapy approaches that are validated in preclinical SHH-MB models and that have therapeutic potential for MB patients. Literature from Pubmed and data reported on ClinicalTrial.gov up to August 2020 were considered. EXPERT OPINION Extensive-omics analysis has enhanced our knowledge and has transformed the way that MB is studied and managed. The clinical use of SMO antagonists has yet to be determined, however, future GLI inhibitors and multitargeting approaches are promising.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Ghirga
- Center for Life NanoScience@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia , 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Bufalieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome La Sapienza , 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Deborah Quaglio
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 , Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Infante
- Center for Life NanoScience@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia , 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome La Sapienza , 00161, Rome, Italy.,Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, University of Rome La Sapienza , 00161, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Bongiovanni D, Tosello V, Saccomani V, Dalla Santa S, Amadori A, Zanovello P, Piovan E. Crosstalk between Hedgehog pathway and the glucocorticoid receptor pathway as a basis for combination therapy in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Oncogene 2020; 39:6544-6555. [PMID: 32917954 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01453-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Notwithstanding intensified therapy, a considerable fraction of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) patients face a dismal prognosis due to primary resistance to treatment and relapse, raising the need for more efficient and targeted therapies. Hedgehog (HH) signaling is a major developmental pathway frequently deregulated in cancer, for which a role in T-ALL is emerging. Mounting evidence suggests that ligand-independent activation of HH pathway occurs in cancer including T-ALL, emphasizing the necessity of dissecting the complex interplay between HH and other signaling pathways regulating activation. In this work, we present a therapeutically relevant crosstalk between HH signaling and the glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1) pathway acting at the level of GLI1 transcription factor. GLI inhibitor GANT61 and dexamethasone were shown to exert a synergistic anti-leukemic effect in vitro in T-ALL cell lines and patient-derived xenografts. Mechanistically, dexamethasone-activated NR3C1 impaired GLI1 function by dynamically modulating the recruitment of PCAF acetyltransferase and HDAC1 deacetylase. Increased GLI1 acetylation was associated with compromised transcriptional activity and reduced protein stability. In summary, our study identifies a novel crosstalk between GLI1 and NR3C1 signaling pathway which could be exploited in HH-dependent malignancies to increase therapeutic efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Bongiovanni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e Gastroenterologiche, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Valeria Tosello
- UOC Immunologia e Diagnostica Molecolare Oncologica, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Valentina Saccomani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e Gastroenterologiche, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Dalla Santa
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e Gastroenterologiche, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Amadori
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e Gastroenterologiche, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy.,UOC Immunologia e Diagnostica Molecolare Oncologica, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Paola Zanovello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e Gastroenterologiche, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Erich Piovan
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e Gastroenterologiche, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy. .,UOC Immunologia e Diagnostica Molecolare Oncologica, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wang W, Zhang Z, Kuang X, Ma D, Xiong J, Lu T, Zhang Y, Yu K, Zhang S, Wang J, Fang Q. 4SC-202 induces apoptosis in myelodysplastic syndromes and the underlying mechanism. Am J Transl Res 2020; 12:2968-2983. [PMID: 32655823 PMCID: PMC7344078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications play crucial roles in regulating the self-renewal and differentiation of hematopoiesis. 4SC-202, a novel inhibitor of histone lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) and class I histone deacetylases (HDACs), is a potential therapeutic agent to treat myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). However, it remains unclarified of the mechanism of 4SC-202. In the study, we found that 4SC-202 treatment could inhibit cell viability, induce apoptosis and cause G2/M cell cycle arrest in MDS cell line SKM-1. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) was correlated with disease progression and chemotherapy resistance. Here, we reported that 4SC-202 could down-regulate the expression of HO-1, and up-regulation of HO-1 could significantly attenuate the 4SC-202-induced apoptosis in SKM-1 cells. In addition, the activation of NF-κB pathway was suppressed by 4SC-202, while up-regulation of HO-1 significantly weakened the 4SC-202-induced suppression of the NF-κB pathway, thereby attenuating the efficacy of 4SC-202. However, down-regulation of HO-1 enhanced the sensitivity of 4SC-202 against SKM-1 cells. Moreover, SKM-1 cells were transfected with HO-1 overexpression lentivirus, subsequently injected into the tail vein of NOD/SCID mice, followed by administration of 4SC-202 in mice. As a result, up-regulation HO-1 could partially attenuate 4SC-202-suppressed MDS cells growth in NOD/SCID mice. In conclusion, 4SC-202 could induce apoptosis via the NF-κB pathway, and our present finding may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for MDS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weili Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoyuan Zhang
- Guizhou Province Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Hematological Disease Diagnostic Treat Centre of Guizhou ProvinceGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Xingyi Kuang
- Guizhou Province Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Hematological Disease Diagnostic Treat Centre of Guizhou ProvinceGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Dan Ma
- Guizhou Province Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Hematological Disease Diagnostic Treat Centre of Guizhou ProvinceGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Jie Xiong
- Guizhou Province Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Hematological Disease Diagnostic Treat Centre of Guizhou ProvinceGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Tingting Lu
- Guizhou Province Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Hematological Disease Diagnostic Treat Centre of Guizhou ProvinceGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Yaming Zhang
- Guizhou Province Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Hematological Disease Diagnostic Treat Centre of Guizhou ProvinceGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Kunling Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Guizhou Province Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Guizhou Province Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Jishi Wang
- Guizhou Province Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Hematological Disease Diagnostic Treat Centre of Guizhou ProvinceGuiyang, P. R. China
| | - Qin Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyang, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hoffman MM, Zylla JS, Bhattacharya S, Calar K, Hartman TW, Bhardwaj RD, Miskimins WK, de la Puente P, Gnimpieba EZ, Messerli SM. Analysis of Dual Class I Histone Deacetylase and Lysine Demethylase Inhibitor Domatinostat (4SC-202) on Growth and Cellular and Genomic Landscape of Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12030756. [PMID: 32210076 PMCID: PMC7140080 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (ATRTs) are rare and aggressive tumors with a very poor prognosis. Current treatments for ATRT include resection of the tumor, followed by systemic chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which have toxic side effects for young children. Gene expression analyses of human ATRTs and normal brain samples indicate that ATRTs have aberrant expression of epigenetic markers including class I histone deacetylases (HDAC’s) and lysine demethylase (LSD1). Here, we investigate the effect of a small molecule epigenetic modulator known as Domatinostat (4SC-202), which inhibits both class I HDAC’s and Lysine Demethylase (LSD1), on ATRT cell survival and single cell heterogeneity. Our findings suggest that 4SC-202 is both cytotoxic and cytostatic to ATRT in 2D and 3D scaffold cell culture models and may target cancer stem cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing data from ATRT-06 spheroids treated with 4SC-202 have a reduced population of cells overexpressing stem cell-related genes, including SOX2. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence on 3D ATRT-06 scaffold models support these results suggesting that 4SC-202 reduces expression of cancer stem cell markers SOX2, CD133, and FOXM1. Drug-induced changes to the systems biology landscape are also explored by multi-omics enrichment analyses. In summary, our data indicate that 4SC-202 has both cytotoxic and cytostatic effects on ATRT, targets specific cell sub-populations, including those with cancer stem-like features, and is an important potential cancer therapeutic to be investigated in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariah M. Hoffman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57107, USA; (M.M.H.); (E.Z.G.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of South Dakota, BioSNTR, Sioux Falls, SD 57107, USA
| | - Jessica S. Zylla
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57107, USA; (M.M.H.); (E.Z.G.)
| | | | - Kristin Calar
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA (P.P.)
| | - Timothy W. Hartman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57107, USA; (M.M.H.); (E.Z.G.)
| | - Ratan D. Bhardwaj
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA (P.P.)
| | - W. Keith Miskimins
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA (P.P.)
| | - Pilar de la Puente
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA (P.P.)
- Department of Surgery, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57006, USA
| | - Etienne Z. Gnimpieba
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57107, USA; (M.M.H.); (E.Z.G.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of South Dakota, BioSNTR, Sioux Falls, SD 57107, USA
| | - Shanta M. Messerli
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57107, USA; (M.M.H.); (E.Z.G.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of South Dakota, BioSNTR, Sioux Falls, SD 57107, USA
- Cancer Biology & Immunotherapies, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA (P.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-508-364-1181
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Spiombi E, Angrisani A, Fonte S, De Feudis G, Fabretti F, Cucchi D, Izzo M, Infante P, Miele E, Po A, Di Magno L, Magliozzi R, Guardavaccaro D, Maroder M, Canettieri G, Giannini G, Ferretti E, Gulino A, Di Marcotullio L, Moretti M, De Smaele E. KCTD15 inhibits the Hedgehog pathway in Medulloblastoma cells by increasing protein levels of the oncosuppressor KCASH2. Oncogenesis 2019; 8:64. [PMID: 31685809 PMCID: PMC6828672 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-019-0175-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant childhood brain tumor. About 30% of all MBs belong to the I molecular subgroup, characterized by constitutive activation of the Sonic Hedgehog (Hh) pathway. The Hh pathway is involved in several fundamental processes during embryogenesis and in adult life and its deregulation may lead to cerebellar tumorigenesis. Indeed, Hh activity must be maintained via a complex network of activating and repressor signals. One of these repressor signals is KCASH2, belonging to the KCASH family of protein, which acts as negative regulators of the Hedgehog signaling pathway during cerebellar development and differentiation. KCASH2 leads HDAC1 to degradation, allowing hyperacetylation and inhibition of transcriptional activity of Gli1, the main effector of the Hh pathway. In turn, the KCASH2 loss leads to persistent Hh activity and eventually tumorigenesis. In order to better characterize the physiologic role and modulation mechanisms of KCASH2, we have searched through a proteomic approach for new KCASH2 interactors, identifying Potassium Channel Tetramerization Domain Containing 15 (KCTD15). KCTD15 is able to directly interact with KCASH2, through its BTB/POZ domain. This interaction leads to increase KCASH2 stability which implies a reduction of the Hh pathway activity and a reduction of Hh-dependent MB cells proliferation. Here we report the identification of KCTD15 as a novel player in the complex network of regulatory proteins, which modulate Hh pathway, this could be a promising new target for therapeutic approach against MB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Spiombi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20090, Segrate, Milan, Italy
| | - Annapaola Angrisani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Fonte
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina De Feudis
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology, 20139, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Fabretti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Cucchi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Centre for Molecular Oncology, John Vane Science Center, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Mariapaola Izzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Infante
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Evelina Miele
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Department of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Agnese Po
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Di Magno
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Marella Maroder
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Istituto Pasteur, Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giannini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Istituto Pasteur, Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Ferretti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Gulino
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Istituto Pasteur, Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Moretti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico De Smaele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kumar V, Dong Y, Kumar V, Almawash S, Mahato RI. The use of micelles to deliver potential hedgehog pathway inhibitor for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Am J Cancer Res 2019; 9:7537-7555. [PMID: 31695785 PMCID: PMC6831471 DOI: 10.7150/thno.38913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Hedgehog (Hh) pathway plays an essential role in liver fibrosis by promoting the proliferation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) by enhancing their metabolism via yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1). Despite the presence of several inhibitors, Hh signaling cannot be controlled exclusively due to their poor efficacy and the lack of a suitable delivery system to the injury site. Therefore, it is rationale to develop new potent Hh inhibitors and suitable delivery carriers. Methods: Based on the structure and activity of Hh inhibitor GDC-0449, we replaced its sulfonamide group with two methylpyridine-2yl at amide nitrogen to synthesize MDB5. We compared the Hh pathway inhibition and anti-fibrotic effect of MDB5 with GDC-0449 in vitro. Next, we developed MDB5 loaded micelles using our methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-blockpoly(2-methyl-2-carboxyl-propylene carbonate-graft-dodecanol (PEG-PCC-g-DC) copolymer and characterized for physicochemical properties. We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of MDB5 loaded micelles in common bile duct ligation (CBDL) induced liver fibrosis, mouse model. We also determined the intrahepatic distribution of fluorescently labeled micelles after MDB5 treatment. Results: Our results show that MDB5 was more potent in inhibiting Hh pathway components and HSC proliferation in vitro. We successfully developed MDB5 loaded micelles with particle size of 40 ± 10 nm and drug loading up to 10% w/w. MDB5 loaded micelles at the dose of 10 mg/kg were well tolerated by mice, without visible sign of toxicity. The serum enzyme activities elevated by CBDL was significantly decreased by MDB5 loaded micelles compared to GDC-0449 loaded micelles. MDB5 loaded micelles further decreased collagen deposition, HSC activation, and Hh activity and its target genes in the liver. MDB5 loaded micelles also prevented liver sinusoidal endothelial capillarization (LSEC) and therefore restored perfusion between blood and liver cells. Conclusions: Our study provides evidence that MDB5 was more potent in inhibiting Hh pathway in HSC-T6 cells and showed better hepatoprotection in CBDL mice compared to GDC-0449.
Collapse
|
27
|
Bhateja P, Cherian M, Majumder S, Ramaswamy B. The Hedgehog Signaling Pathway: A Viable Target in Breast Cancer? Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11081126. [PMID: 31394751 PMCID: PMC6721501 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The hedgehog (Hh) pathway plays a key role in embryonic development and stem cell programs. Deregulation of the Hh pathway is a key driver of basal cell carcinoma, and therapeutic targeting led to approval of Hh inhibitor, vismodegib, in the management of this cancer. The Hh pathway is implicated in other malignancies including hormone receptor (HR+) positive and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Hh signaling, which is activated in human mammary stem cells, results in activation of glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) transcription factors. High GLI1 expression correlates with worse outcomes in breast cancer. Non-canonical GLI1 activation is one mechanism by which estrogen exposure promotes breast cancer stem cell proliferation and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Tamoxifen resistant cell lines show aberrant activation of Hh signaling, and knockdown of Hh pathway inhibited growth of tamoxifen resistant cells. As in other cancers Hh signaling is activated by the PI3K/AKT pathway in these endocrine resistant cell lines. Hh pathway activation has also been reported to mediate chemotherapy resistance in TNBC via various mechanisms including paracrine signaling to tumor micro-environment and selective proliferation of cancer stem cells. Co-activation of Hh and Wnt signaling pathways is a poor prognostic marker in TNBC. Early phase clinical trials are evaluating the combination of smoothened (SMO) inhibitors and chemotherapy in TNBC. In addition to SMO inhibitors like vismodegib and sonidegib, which are in clinical use for basal cell carcinoma, GLI1 inhibitors like GANT58 and GANT61 are in preclinical drug development and might be an effective mechanism to overcome drug resistance in breast cancer. Gene signatures predictive of Hh pathway activation could enrich for patients likely to respond to these agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Bhateja
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Mathew Cherian
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Sarmila Majumder
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Implication for Cancer Stem Cells in Solid Cancer Chemo-Resistance: Promising Therapeutic Strategies Based on the Use of HDAC Inhibitors. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8070912. [PMID: 31247937 PMCID: PMC6678716 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8070912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to therapy in patients with solid cancers represents a daunting challenge that must be addressed. Indeed, current strategies are still not effective in the majority of patients; which has resulted in the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a subset of tumor cells that possess self-renewal and multilineage differentiation potential, are known to be intrinsically resistant to anticancer treatments. In this review, we analyzed the implications for CSCs in drug resistance and described that multiple alterations in morphogenetic pathways (i.e., Hippo, Wnt, JAK/STAT, TGF-β, Notch, Hedgehog pathways) were suggested to be critical for CSC plasticity. By interrogating The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets, we first analyzed the prevalence of morphogenetic pathways alterations in solid tumors with associated outcomes. Then, by highlighting epigenetic relevance in CSC development and maintenance, we selected histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) as potential agents of interest to target this subpopulation based on the pleiotropic effects exerted specifically on altered morphogenetic pathways. In detail, we highlighted the role of HDACi in solid cancers and, specifically, in the CSC subpopulation and we pointed out some mechanisms by which HDACi are able to overcome drug resistance and to modulate stemness. Although, further clinical and preclinical investigations should be conducted to disclose the unclear mechanisms by which HDACi modulate several signaling pathways in different tumors. To date, several lines of evidence support the testing of novel combinatorial therapeutic strategies based on the combination of drugs commonly used in clinical practice and HDACi to improve therapeutic efficacy in solid cancer patients.
Collapse
|
29
|
Pietrobono S, Gagliardi S, Stecca B. Non-canonical Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Cancer: Activation of GLI Transcription Factors Beyond Smoothened. Front Genet 2019; 10:556. [PMID: 31244888 PMCID: PMC6581679 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog-GLI (HH-GLI) pathway is a highly conserved signaling that plays a critical role in controlling cell specification, cell–cell interaction and tissue patterning during embryonic development. Canonical activation of HH-GLI signaling occurs through binding of HH ligands to the twelve-pass transmembrane receptor Patched 1 (PTCH1), which derepresses the seven-pass transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor Smoothened (SMO). Thus, active SMO initiates a complex intracellular cascade that leads to the activation of the three GLI transcription factors, the final effectors of the HH-GLI pathway. Aberrant activation of this signaling has been implicated in a wide variety of tumors, such as those of the brain, skin, breast, gastrointestinal, lung, pancreas, prostate and ovary. In several of these cases, activation of HH-GLI signaling is mediated by overproduction of HH ligands (e.g., prostate cancer), loss-of-function mutations in PTCH1 or gain-of-function mutations in SMO, which occur in the majority of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), SHH-subtype medulloblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma. Besides the classical canonical ligand-PTCH1-SMO route, mounting evidence points toward additional, non-canonical ways of GLI activation in cancer. By non-canonical we refer to all those mechanisms of activation of the GLI transcription factors occurring independently of SMO. Often, in a given cancer type canonical and non-canonical activation of HH-GLI signaling co-exist, and in some cancer types, more than one mechanism of non-canonical activation may occur. Tumors harboring non-canonical HH-GLI signaling are less sensitive to SMO inhibition, posing a threat for therapeutic efficacy of these antagonists. Here we will review the most recent findings on the involvement of alternative signaling pathways in inducing GLI activity in cancer and stem cells. We will also discuss the rationale of targeting these oncogenic pathways in combination with HH-GLI inhibitors as a promising anti-cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pietrobono
- Tumor Cell Biology Unit - Core Research Laboratory, Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Sinforosa Gagliardi
- Tumor Cell Biology Unit - Core Research Laboratory, Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Barbara Stecca
- Tumor Cell Biology Unit - Core Research Laboratory, Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Patnaik S, Anupriya. Drugs Targeting Epigenetic Modifications and Plausible Therapeutic Strategies Against Colorectal Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:588. [PMID: 31244652 PMCID: PMC6563763 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic variations along with epigenetic modifications of DNA are involved in colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression. CRC is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Initiation and progression of CRC is the cumulation of a variety of genetic and epigenetic changes in colonic epithelial cells. Colorectal carcinogenesis is associated with epigenetic aberrations including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNAs. Recently, epigenetic modifications have been identified like association of hypermethylated gene Claudin11 (CLDN11) with metastasis and prognosis of poor survival of CRC. DNA methylation of genes CMTM3, SSTR2, MDF1, NDRG4 and TGFB2 are potential epigenetic biomarkers for the early detection of CRC. Tumor suppressor candidate 3 (TUSC3) mRNA expression is silenced by promoter methylation, which promotes epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling and rescues the CRC cells from apoptosis and hence leading to poor survival rate. Previous scientific evidences strongly suggest epigenetic modifications that contribute to anticancer drug resistance. Recent research studies emphasize development of drugs targeting histone deacetylases (HDACs) and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors as an emerging anticancer strategy. This review covers potential epigenetic modification targeting chemotherapeutic drugs and probable implementation for the treatment of CRC, which offers a strong rationale to explore therapeutic strategies and provides a basis to develop potent antitumor drugs.
Collapse
|
31
|
Genomic testing, tumor microenvironment and targeted therapy of Hedgehog-related human cancers. Clin Sci (Lond) 2019; 133:953-970. [PMID: 31036756 DOI: 10.1042/cs20180845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hedgehog signals are transduced through Patched receptors to the Smoothened (SMO)-SUFU-GLI and SMO-Gi-RhoA signaling cascades. MTOR-S6K1 and MEK-ERK signals are also transduced to GLI activators through post-translational modifications. The GLI transcription network up-regulates target genes, such as BCL2, FOXA2, FOXE1, FOXF1, FOXL1, FOXM1, GLI1, HHIP, PTCH1 and WNT2B, in a cellular context-dependent manner. Aberrant Hedgehog signaling in tumor cells leads to self-renewal, survival, proliferation and invasion. Paracrine Hedgehog signaling in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which harbors cancer-associated fibroblasts, leads to angiogenesis, fibrosis, immune evasion and neuropathic pain. Hedgehog-related genetic alterations occur frequently in basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (85%) and Sonic Hedgehog (SHH)-subgroup medulloblastoma (87%) and less frequently in breast cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and ovarian cancer. Among investigational SMO inhibitors, vismodegib and sonidegib are approved for the treatment of patients with BCC, and glasdegib is approved for the treatment of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Resistance to SMO inhibitors is caused by acquired SMO mutations, SUFU deletions, GLI2 amplification, other by-passing mechanisms of GLI activation and WNT/β-catenin signaling activation. GLI-DNA-interaction inhibitors (glabrescione B and GANT61), GLI2 destabilizers (arsenic trioxide and pirfenidone) and a GLI-deacetylation inhibitor (4SC-202) were shown to block GLI-dependent transcription and tumorigenesis in preclinical studies. By contrast, SMO inhibitors can remodel the immunosuppressive TME that is dominated by M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (M2-TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells and regulatory T cells, and thus, a Phase I/II clinical trial of the immune checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab with or without vismodegib in BCC patients is ongoing.
Collapse
|
32
|
Peer E, Tesanovic S, Aberger F. Next-Generation Hedgehog/GLI Pathway Inhibitors for Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11040538. [PMID: 30991683 PMCID: PMC6520835 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11040538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog/Glioma-associated oncogene homolog (HH/GLI) signaling pathway regulates self-renewal of rare and highly malignant cancer stem cells (CSC), which have been shown to account for the initiation and maintenance of tumor growth as well as for drug resistance, metastatic spread and relapse. Efficacious therapeutic approaches targeting CSC pathways, such as HH/GLI signaling in combination with chemo, radiation or immunotherapy are, therefore, of high medical need. Pharmacological inhibition of HH/GLI pathway activity represents a promising approach to eliminate malignant CSC. Clinically approved HH/GLI pathway inhibitors target the essential pathway effector Smoothened (SMO) with striking therapeutic efficacy in skin and brain cancer patients. However, multiple genetic and molecular mechanisms resulting in de novo and acquired resistance to SMO inhibitors pose major limitations to anti-HH/GLI therapies and, thus, the eradication of CSC. In this review, we summarize reasons for clinical failure of SMO inhibitors, including mechanisms caused by genetic alterations in HH pathway effectors or triggered by additional oncogenic signals activating GLI transcription factors in a noncanonical manner. We then discuss emerging novel and rationale-based approaches to overcome SMO-inhibitor resistance, focusing on pharmacological perturbations of enzymatic modifiers of GLI activity and on compounds either directly targeting oncogenic GLI factors or interfering with synergistic crosstalk signals known to boost the oncogenicity of HH/GLI signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Peer
- Department of Biosciences, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Hellbrunner Strasse 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Suzana Tesanovic
- Department of Biosciences, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Hellbrunner Strasse 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Fritz Aberger
- Department of Biosciences, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Hellbrunner Strasse 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Galperin I, Dempwolff L, Diederich WE, Lauth M. Inhibiting Hedgehog: An Update on Pharmacological Compounds and Targeting Strategies. J Med Chem 2019; 62:8392-8411. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ilya Galperin
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology (ZTI), Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Lukas Dempwolff
- School of Pharmacy, Center for Tumor and Immune Biology (ZTI), Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Wibke E. Diederich
- School of Pharmacy, Center for Tumor and Immune Biology (ZTI), Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- Core Facility Medicinal Chemistry, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Lauth
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology (ZTI), Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wobser M, Weber A, Glunz A, Tauch S, Seitz K, Butelmann T, Hesbacher S, Goebeler M, Bartz R, Kohlhof H, Schrama D, Houben R. Elucidating the mechanism of action of domatinostat (4SC-202) in cutaneous T cell lymphoma cells. J Hematol Oncol 2019; 12:30. [PMID: 30885250 PMCID: PMC6423872 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-019-0719-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Targeting epigenetic modifiers is effective in cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL). However, there is a need for further improvement of this therapeutic approach. Here, we compared the mode of action of romidepsin (FK228), an established class I histone deacetylase inhibitor, and domatinostat (4SC-202), a novel inhibitor of class I HDACs, which has been reported to also target the lysine-specific histone demethylase 1A (LSD1). Methods We performed MTS assays and flow cytometric analyses of propidium iodide or annexin V-stained cells to assess drug impact on cellular proliferation, cell cycle distribution, and survival. Histone acetylation and methylation as well as caspase activation was analyzed by immunoblot. Gene expression analysis was performed using NanosString technology. Knockdown and knockout of LSD1 was achieved with shRNA and CRISPR/Cas9, respectively, while the CRISPR/Cas9 synergistic activation mediator system was used to induce expression of endogenous HDACs and LSD1. Furthermore, time-lapse fluorescence microscopy and an in vitro tubulin polymerization assay were applied. Results While FK228 as well as 4SC-202 potently induced cell death in six different CTCL cell lines, only in the case of 4SC-202 death was preceded by an accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Surprisingly, apoptosis and accumulation of cells with double DNA content occurred already at 4SC-202 concentrations hardly affecting histone acetylation and methylation, and provoking significantly less changes in gene expression compared to biologically equivalent doses of FK228. Indeed, we provide evidence that the 4SC-202-induced G2/M arrest in CTCL cells is independent of de novo transcription. Furthermore, neither enforced expression of HDAC1 nor knockdown or knockout of LSD1 affected the 4SC-202-induced effects. Since time-lapse microscopy revealed that 4SC-202 could affect mitotic spindle formation, we performed an in vitro tubulin polymerization assay revealing that 4SC-202 can directly inhibit microtubule formation. Conclusions We demonstrate that 4SC-202, a drug currently tested in clinical trials, effectively inhibits growth of CTCL cells. The anti-cancer cell activity of 4SC-202 is however not limited to LSD1-inhibition, modulation of histone modifications, and consecutive alteration of gene expression. Indeed, the compound is also a potent microtubule-destabilizing agent. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13045-019-0719-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marion Wobser
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Weber
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Amelie Glunz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Saskia Tauch
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Kristina Seitz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Butelmann
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Sonja Hesbacher
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Goebeler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - René Bartz
- 4SC company, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | | | - David Schrama
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhao J, Gray SG, Greene CM, Lawless MW. Unmasking the pathological and therapeutic potential of histone deacetylases for liver cancer. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 13:247-256. [PMID: 30791763 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2019.1568870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of primary liver cancer, currently ranking as one of the highest neoplastic-related mortalities in the world. Due to the difficulty in early diagnosis and lack of effective treatment options, the 5-year survival rate of HCC remains extremely low. Histone deacetylation is one of the most important epigenetic mechanisms, regulating cellular events such as differentiation, proliferation and cell cycle. Histone deacetylases (HDACs), the chief mediators of this epigenetic mechanism, are often aberrantly expressed in various tumours including HCC. Areas covered: This review focuses on the most up-to-date findings of HDACs and their associated molecular mechanisms in HCC onset and progression. In addition, a potential network between HDACs and non-coding RNAs including microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs underlying hepatocarcinogenesis is considered. Expert opinion: Unmasking the role of HDACs and their association with HCC pathogenesis could have implications for future personalized therapeutic and diagnostic targeting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhao
- a Experimental Medicine, UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science , Mater Misericordiae University Hospital , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Steven G Gray
- b Department of Clinical Medicine , Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St. James's Hospital & Trinity College , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Catherine M Greene
- c Clinical Microbiology , Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Matthew W Lawless
- a Experimental Medicine, UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science , Mater Misericordiae University Hospital , Dublin , Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Polyamine Metabolism as a Therapeutic Target inHedgehog-Driven Basal Cell Carcinomaand Medulloblastoma. Cells 2019; 8:cells8020150. [PMID: 30754726 PMCID: PMC6406590 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is a critical developmental regulator and its aberrant activation,due to somatic or germline mutations of genes encoding pathway components, causes Basal CellCarcinoma (BCC) and medulloblastoma (MB). A growing effort has been devoted at theidentification of druggable vulnerabilities of the Hedgehog signaling, leading to the identificationof various compounds with variable efficacy and/or safety. Emerging evidence shows that anaberrant polyamine metabolism is a hallmark of Hh-dependent tumors and that itspharmacological inhibition elicits relevant therapeutic effects in clinical or preclinical models ofBCC and MB. We discuss here the current knowledge of polyamine metabolism, its role in cancerand the available targeting strategies. We review the literature about the connection betweenpolyamines and the Hedgehog signaling, and the potential therapeutic benefit of targetingpolyamine metabolism in two malignancies where Hh pathways play a well-established role: BCCand MB.
Collapse
|
37
|
Pietrobono S, Stecca B. Targeting the Oncoprotein Smoothened by Small Molecules: Focus on Novel Acylguanidine Derivatives as Potent Smoothened Inhibitors. Cells 2018; 7:cells7120272. [PMID: 30558232 PMCID: PMC6316656 DOI: 10.3390/cells7120272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog-GLI (HH) signaling was originally identified as a critical morphogenetic pathway in embryonic development. Since its discovery, a multitude of studies have reported that HH signaling also plays key roles in a variety of cancer types and in maintaining tumor-initiating cells. Smoothened (SMO) is the main transducer of HH signaling, and in the last few years, it has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for anticancer therapy. Although vismodegib and sonidegib have demonstrated effectiveness for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), their clinical use has been hampered by severe side effects, low selectivity against cancer stem cells, and the onset of mutation-driven drug resistance. Moreover, SMO antagonists are not effective in cancers where HH activation is due to mutations of pathway components downstream of SMO, or in the case of noncanonical, SMO-independent activation of the GLI transcription factors, the final mediators of HH signaling. Here, we review the current and rapidly expanding field of SMO small-molecule inhibitors in experimental and clinical settings, focusing on a class of acylguanidine derivatives. We also discuss various aspects of SMO, including mechanisms of resistance to SMO antagonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pietrobono
- Tumor Cell Biology Unit⁻Core Research Laboratory, Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), 50139 Florence, Italy.
| | - Barbara Stecca
- Tumor Cell Biology Unit⁻Core Research Laboratory, Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), 50139 Florence, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Tsilimigras DI, Ntanasis-Stathopoulos I, Moris D, Spartalis E, Pawlik TM. Histone deacetylase inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma: A therapeutic perspective. Surg Oncol 2018; 27:611-618. [DOI: 10.1016/j.suronc.2018.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
39
|
Sternberg C, Gruber W, Eberl M, Tesanovic S, Stadler M, Elmer DP, Schlederer M, Grund S, Roos S, Wolff F, Kaur S, Mangelberger D, Lehrach H, Hache H, Wierling C, Laimer J, Lackner P, Wiederstein M, Kasper M, Risch A, Petzelbauer P, Moriggl R, Kenner L, Aberger F. Synergistic cross-talk of hedgehog and interleukin-6 signaling drives growth of basal cell carcinoma. Int J Cancer 2018; 143:2943-2954. [PMID: 29987839 PMCID: PMC6282712 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.31724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Persistent activation of hedgehog (HH)/GLI signaling accounts for the development of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), a very frequent nonmelanoma skin cancer with rising incidence. Targeting HH/GLI signaling by approved pathway inhibitors can provide significant therapeutic benefit to BCC patients. However, limited response rates, development of drug resistance, and severe side effects of HH pathway inhibitors call for improved treatment strategies such as rational combination therapies simultaneously inhibiting HH/GLI and cooperative signals promoting the oncogenic activity of HH/GLI. In this study, we identified the interleukin‐6 (IL6) pathway as a novel synergistic signal promoting oncogenic HH/GLI via STAT3 activation. Mechanistically, we provide evidence that signal integration of IL6 and HH/GLI occurs at the level of cis‐regulatory sequences by co‐binding of GLI and STAT3 to common HH‐IL6 target gene promoters. Genetic inactivation of Il6 signaling in a mouse model of BCC significantly reduced in vivo tumor growth by interfering with HH/GLI‐driven BCC proliferation. Our genetic and pharmacologic data suggest that combinatorial HH‐IL6 pathway blockade is a promising approach to efficiently arrest cancer growth in BCC patients. What's new? Persistent activation of hedgehog (HH)/GLI signaling represents the main driver signal for the development of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), a common non‐melanoma skin cancer with rising incidence. Small molecule hedgehog pathway inhibitors are successfully used for the treatment of hedgehog‐driven BCC, but frequent drug resistance calls for improved strategies. Here, the authors identified the interleukin‐6 pathway as a novel synergistic signal promoting oncogenic HH/GLI via STAT3 activation. The synergistic interaction was required for the in vivo growth of hedgehog‐driven BCC. The study thus provides a rationale for effective combination treatments simultaneously targeting oncogenic hedgehog and interleukin‐6 signaling in BCC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Sternberg
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Gruber
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Markus Eberl
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Suzana Tesanovic
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Manuela Stadler
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Dominik P Elmer
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Michaela Schlederer
- Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Grund
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Simone Roos
- Unit Laboratory Animal Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Wolff
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Supreet Kaur
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Doris Mangelberger
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.,CytoSwitch, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans Lehrach
- Department of Vertebrate Genomics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.,Alacris Theranostics GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hendrik Hache
- Department of Vertebrate Genomics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.,Alacris Theranostics GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Wierling
- Department of Vertebrate Genomics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.,Alacris Theranostics GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Josef Laimer
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Peter Lackner
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Markus Wiederstein
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Maria Kasper
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition and Center for Innovative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Angela Risch
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Peter Petzelbauer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Moriggl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria.,Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lukas Kenner
- Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Unit Laboratory Animal Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
| | - Fritz Aberger
- Department of Biosciences, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| |
Collapse
|