1
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Pedersen EA, Verhaegen ME, Joseph MK, Harms KL, Harms PW. Merkel cell carcinoma: updates in tumor biology, emerging therapies, and preclinical models. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1413793. [PMID: 39136002 PMCID: PMC11317257 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1413793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma thought to arise via either viral (Merkel cell polyomavirus) or ultraviolet-associated pathways. Surgery and radiotherapy have historically been mainstays of management, and immunotherapy has improved outcomes for advanced disease. However, there remains a lack of effective therapy for those patients who fail to respond to these established approaches, underscoring a critical need to better understand MCC biology for more effective prognosis and treatment. Here, we review the fundamental aspects of MCC biology and the recent advances which have had profound impact on management. The first genetically-engineered mouse models for MCC tumorigenesis provide opportunities to understand the potential MCC cell of origin and may prove useful for preclinical investigation of novel therapeutics. The MCC cell of origin debate has also been advanced by recent observations of MCC arising in association with a clonally related hair follicle tumor or squamous cell carcinoma in situ. These studies also suggested a role for epigenetics in the origin of MCC, highlighting a potential utility for this therapeutic avenue in MCC. These and other therapeutic targets form the basis for a wealth of ongoing clinical trials to improve MCC management. Here, we review these recent advances in the context of the existing literature and implications for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mallory K. Joseph
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Kelly L. Harms
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Paul W. Harms
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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2
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Rizk NI, Midan HM, Helal GK, Abulsoud AI, Elshaer SS, El-Husseiny AA, Fathi D, Abdelmaksoud NM, Abdel Mageed SS, Elballal MS, Zaki MB, Abd-Elmawla MA, Al-Noshokaty TM, Elrebehy MA, El-Dakroury WA, Abulsoud LA, Doghish AS. The emerging role of miRNAs in Merkel cell carcinoma pathogenesis: Signaling pathway crosstalk. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 249:154771. [PMID: 37611429 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon invasive form of skin cancer that typically manifests as a nodule on the face, head, or neck that is flesh-colored or bluish-red in appearance. Rapid growth and metastasis are hallmarks of MCC. MCC has the second-greatest mortality rate among skin cancers after melanoma. Despite the recent cascade of molecular investigations, no universal molecular signature has been identified as responsible for MCC's pathogenesis. The microRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Variations in the expression of these short, non-coding RNAs have been associated with various malignancies, including MCC. Although the incidence of MCC is very low, a significant amount of study has focused on the interaction of miRNAs in MCC. As such, the current survey is a speedy intensive route revealing the potential involvement of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of MCC beyond their association with survival in MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehal I Rizk
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Heba M Midan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Gouda Kamel Helal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11231, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Ahmed I Abulsoud
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, 11231 Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Shereen Saeid Elshaer
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo 11823, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A El-Husseiny
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, 11231 Cairo, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Egyptian Russian University, Badr City, 11829 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Doaa Fathi
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | | | - Sherif S Abdel Mageed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mohammed S Elballal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Bakr Zaki
- Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sadat City, Menoufia 32897, Egypt
| | - Mai A Abd-Elmawla
- Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Tohada M Al-Noshokaty
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud A Elrebehy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Walaa A El-Dakroury
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Logyna A Abulsoud
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, 11231 Cairo, Egypt.
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3
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Al-Noshokaty TM, Elballal MS, Helal GK, Abulsoud AI, Elshaer SS, El-Husseiny AA, Fathi D, Abdelmaksoud NM, Abdel Mageed SS, Midan HM, Zaki MB, Abd-Elmawla MA, Rizk NI, Elrebehy MA, Zewail MB, Mohammed OA, Doghish AS. miRNAs driving diagnosis, prognosis and progression in Merkel cell carcinoma. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 249:154763. [PMID: 37595447 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive form of skin malignancy with a high recurrence commonly within two to three years of initial diagnosis. The incidence of MCC has nearly doubled in the past few decades. Options for diagnosing, assessing, and treating MCC are limited. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small, non-coding RNA molecules that play an important role in controlling many different aspects of cell biology. Many miRNAs are aberrantly expressed in distinct types of cancer, with some serving as tumor suppressors and others as oncomiRs. Therefore, the future holds great promise for the utilization of miRNAs in enhancing diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches for MCC. Accordingly, the goal of this article is to compile, summarize, and discuss the latest research on miRNAs in MCC, highlighting their potential clinical utility as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tohada M Al-Noshokaty
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Mohammed S Elballal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Gouda Kamel Helal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11231, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Ahmed I Abulsoud
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11231, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Shereen Saeid Elshaer
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo 11823, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A El-Husseiny
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11231, Cairo, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Egyptian Russian University, Badr City 11829 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Doaa Fathi
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | | | - Sherif S Abdel Mageed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Heba M Midan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Bakr Zaki
- Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sadat City, Menoufia 32897, Egypt
| | - Mai A Abd-Elmawla
- Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nehal I Rizk
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud A Elrebehy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Moataz B Zewail
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Osama A Mohammed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11231, Cairo, Egypt.
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4
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Li M, Gao Z, Wang S, Zhao Y, Xie H. miR‑27a‑3p upregulation by p65 facilitates cervical tumorigenesis by increasing TAB3 expression and is involved in the positive feedback loop of NF‑κB signaling. Oncol Rep 2023; 50:132. [PMID: 37203408 PMCID: PMC10236263 DOI: 10.3892/or.2023.8569] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
An altered microRNA (miRNA/miR)‑27a‑3p expression has been identified in cervical cancer, while the exact regulatory mechanisms responsible for the dysregulation of miR‑27a‑3p remain to be fully elucidated. In the present study, a NF‑κB/p65 binding site was identified upstream of the miR‑23a/27a/24‑2 cluster and p65 binding enhanced the transcription of pri‑miR‑23a/27a/24‑2, as well as the expression levels of mature miRNAs, including miR‑27a‑3p in HeLa cells. Mechanistically, using bioinformatics analyses and experimental validation, TGF‑β activated kinase 1 binding protein 3 (TAB3) was identified as a direct target of miR‑27a‑3p. By binding to the 3'UTR of TAB3, miR‑27a‑3p significantly enhanced TAB3 expression. Functionally, it was found that the overexpression of miR‑27a‑3p and TAB3 promoted the malignant potential of cervical cancer cells, as evaluated using cell growth, migration and invasion assays, and specific cell marker determinations in the epithelial mesenchymal transition progression, and vice versa. Further rescue experiments revealed that the enhanced malignant effects induced by miR‑27a‑3p were mediated via its upregulation of TAB3 expression. Moreover, miR‑27a‑3p and TAB3 also activated the NF‑κB signaling pathway and formed a positive feedback regulatory loop composing of p65/miR‑27a‑3p/TAB3/NF‑κB. On the whole, the findings presented herein may provide novel insight into the underlying cervical tumorigenesis and novel biomarker identification for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, P.R. China
| | - Zixuan Gao
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, P.R. China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Exercise Physiology and Sports Medicine, Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, Tianjin University of Sports, Tianjin 301617, P.R. China
| | - Yungang Zhao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Exercise Physiology and Sports Medicine, Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, Tianjin University of Sports, Tianjin 301617, P.R. China
| | - Hong Xie
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, P.R. China
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5
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Juhlin CC. On the Chopping Block: Overview of DICER1 Mutations in Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Neoplasms. Surg Pathol Clin 2023; 16:107-118. [PMID: 36739158 DOI: 10.1016/j.path.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mutational inactivation of the DICER1 gene causes aberrant micro-RNA maturation, which in turn may have consequences for the posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression, thereby contributing to tumor formation in various organs. Germline DICER1 mutations cause DICER1 syndrome, a pleiotropic condition with an increased risk of various neoplastic conditions in the pleura, ovaries, thyroid, pituitary, pineal gland, and mesenchymal tissues. Somatic DICER1 mutations are also frequently observed in a wide variety of solid tumors, thereby highlighting the importance of this gene in tumor development. In this review, the importance of DICER1 inactivation in endocrine tumors is discussed.
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6
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Merkel Cell Polyomavirus: Infection, Genome, Transcripts and Its Role in Development of Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020444. [PMID: 36672392 PMCID: PMC9857234 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The best characterized polyomavirus family member, i.e., simian virus 40 (SV40), can cause different tumors in hamsters and can transform murine and human cells in vitro. Hence, the SV40 contamination of millions of polio vaccine doses administered from 1955-1963 raised fears that this may cause increased tumor incidence in the vaccinated population. This is, however, not the case. Indeed, up to now, the only polyomavirus family member known to be the most important cause of a specific human tumor entity is Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). MCC is a highly deadly form of skin cancer for which the cellular origin is still uncertain, and which appears as two clinically very similar but molecularly highly different variants. While approximately 80% of cases are found to be associated with MCPyV the remaining MCCs carry a high mutational load. Here, we present an overview of the multitude of molecular functions described for the MCPyV encoded oncoproteins and non-coding RNAs, present the available MCC mouse models and discuss the increasing evidence that both, virus-negative and -positive MCC constitute epithelial tumors.
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7
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Mazziotta C, Cervellera CF, Lanzillotti C, Touzé A, Gaboriaud P, Tognon M, Martini F, Rotondo JC. MicroRNA dysregulations in Merkel cell carcinoma: Molecular mechanisms and clinical applications. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28375. [PMID: 36477874 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin malignancy with two distinct etiologies. The first, which accounts for the highest proportion, is caused by Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), a DNA tumor virus. A second, UV-induced, MCC form has also been identified. Few MCC diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic options are available. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNA molecules, which play a key role in regulating various physiologic cellular functions including cell cycling, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Numerous miRNAs are dysregulated in cancer, by acting as either tumor suppressors or oncomiRs. The aim of this review is to collect, summarize, and discuss recent findings on miRNAs whose dysregulation has been assumed to play a role in MCC. The potential clinical application of miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in MCC is also described. In the future, miRNAs will potentially gain clinical significance for the improvement of MCC diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Antoine Touzé
- "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus" Team, UMR INRAE 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Pauline Gaboriaud
- "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus" Team, UMR INRAE 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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8
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Gao J, Shi H, Juhlin CC, Larsson C, Lui WO. Merkel cell polyomavirus T-antigens regulate DICER1 mRNA stability and translation through HSC70. iScience 2021; 24:103264. [PMID: 34761184 PMCID: PMC8567380 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive skin malignancy, mostly caused by Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). MCPyV T-antigens can induce mature microRNA expressions through the DnaJ domain, but its underlying mechanism is still unknown. Here, we report that the T-antigens induce protein expression and mRNA stability of DICER1, a key factor in microRNA biogenesis, through heat shock cognate 70 (HSC70). HSC70 directly interacts with the AU-rich elements (ARE) of DICER1 mRNA in both coding and 3′ untranslated region in the presence of MCPyV T-antigen. The T-antigen/HSC70 interaction could induce luciferase activity of synthetic ARE-containing reporter, as well as the stability of ARE-containing mRNAs, suggesting a broader role of MCPyV T-antigens in regulating multiple mRNAs via HSC70. These findings highlight a new role for the interaction of HSC70 and MCPyV T-antigens in mRNA regulation and an undescribed regulatory mechanism of DICER1 mRNA stability and translation through its direct interaction with HSC70. MCPyV T-antigen and HSC70 interaction regulates DICER1 expression HSC70 directly binds to ARE in the 3′UTR of DICER1 for expression regulation An unknown motif in DICER1 CDS is also required for its expression regulation by LT The LT-HSC70 interaction can regulate other ARE-containing mRNAs
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwei Gao
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet; BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Solna, Sweden
| | - Hao Shi
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet; BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Solna, Sweden
| | - C Christofer Juhlin
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet; BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Solna, Sweden.,Department of Pathology and Cancer Diagnostics, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Solna, Sweden
| | - Catharina Larsson
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet; BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Solna, Sweden
| | - Weng-Onn Lui
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet; BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Solna, Sweden
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9
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Leonardi L, Sibéril S, Alifano M, Cremer I, Joubert PE. Autophagy Modulation by Viral Infections Influences Tumor Development. Front Oncol 2021; 11:743780. [PMID: 34745965 PMCID: PMC8569469 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.743780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a self-degradative process important for balancing cellular homeostasis at critical times in development and/or in response to nutrient stress. This is particularly relevant in tumor model in which autophagy has been demonstrated to have an important impact on tumor behavior. In one hand, autophagy limits tumor transformation of precancerous cells in early stage, and in the other hand, it favors the survival, proliferation, metastasis, and resistance to antitumor therapies in more advanced tumors. This catabolic machinery can be induced by an important variety of extra- and intracellular stimuli. For instance, viral infection has often been associated to autophagic modulation, and the role of autophagy in virus replication differs according to the virus studied. In the context of tumor development, virus-modulated autophagy can have an important impact on tumor cells' fate. Extensive analyses have shed light on the molecular and/or functional complex mechanisms by which virus-modulated autophagy influences precancerous or tumor cell development. This review includes an overview of discoveries describing the repercussions of an autophagy perturbation during viral infections on tumor behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Leonardi
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), UMRS1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, Univ Paris, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Sibéril
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), UMRS1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, Univ Paris, Paris, France
| | - Marco Alifano
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), UMRS1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France.,Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hospital Cochin Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Cremer
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), UMRS1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, Univ Paris, Paris, France
| | - Pierre-Emmanuel Joubert
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), UMRS1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, Univ Paris, Paris, France
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10
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Rotondo JC, Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Tognon M, Martini F. Epigenetic Dysregulations in Merkel Cell Polyomavirus-Driven Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11464. [PMID: 34768895 PMCID: PMC8584046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a small DNA virus with oncogenic potential. MCPyV is the causative agent of Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC), a rare but aggressive tumor of the skin. The role of epigenetic mechanisms, such as histone posttranslational modifications (HPTMs), DNA methylation, and microRNA (miRNA) regulation on MCPyV-driven MCC has recently been highlighted. In this review, we aim to describe and discuss the latest insights into HPTMs, DNA methylation, and miRNA regulation, as well as their regulative factors in the context of MCPyV-driven MCC, to provide an overview of current findings on how MCPyV is involved in the dysregulation of these epigenetic processes. The current state of the art is also described as far as potentially using epigenetic dysregulations and related factors as diagnostic and prognostic tools is concerned, in addition to targets for MCPyV-driven MCC therapy. Growing evidence suggests that the dysregulation of HPTMs, DNA methylation, and miRNA pathways plays a role in MCPyV-driven MCC etiopathogenesis, which, therefore, may potentially be clinically significant for this deadly tumor. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms and related factors may improve diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy for MCPyV-driven MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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11
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Pietropaolo V, Prezioso C, Moens U. Role of Virus-Induced Host Cell Epigenetic Changes in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158346. [PMID: 34361112 PMCID: PMC8346956 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor viruses human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1), hepatitis C virus (HCV), Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), high-risk human papillomaviruses (HR-HPVs), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpes virus (KSHV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) account for approximately 15% of all human cancers. Although the oncoproteins of these tumor viruses display no sequence similarity to one another, they use the same mechanisms to convey cancer hallmarks on the infected cell. Perturbed gene expression is one of the underlying mechanisms to induce cancer hallmarks. Epigenetic processes, including DNA methylation, histone modification and chromatin remodeling, microRNA, long noncoding RNA, and circular RNA affect gene expression without introducing changes in the DNA sequence. Increasing evidence demonstrates that oncoviruses cause epigenetic modifications, which play a pivotal role in carcinogenesis. In this review, recent advances in the role of host cell epigenetic changes in virus-induced cancers are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pietropaolo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: (V.P.); (U.M.)
| | - Carla Prezioso
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- IRCSS San Raffaele Roma, Microbiology of Chronic Neuro-Degenerative Pathologies, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø—The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
- Correspondence: (V.P.); (U.M.)
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12
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Stachyra K, Dudzisz-Śledź M, Bylina E, Szumera-Ciećkiewicz A, Spałek MJ, Bartnik E, Rutkowski P, Czarnecka AM. Merkel Cell Carcinoma from Molecular Pathology to Novel Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6305. [PMID: 34208339 PMCID: PMC8231245 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon and highly aggressive skin cancer. It develops mostly within chronically sun-exposed areas of the skin. MCPyV is detected in 60-80% of MCC cases as integrated within the genome and is considered a major risk factor for MCC. Viral negative MCCs have a high mutation burden with a UV damage signature. Aberrations occur in RB1, TP53, and NOTCH genes as well as in the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway. MCC is highly immunogenic, but MCC cells are known to evade the host's immune response. Despite the characteristic immunohistological profile of MCC, the diagnosis is challenging, and it should be confirmed by an experienced pathologist. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is considered the most reliable staging tool to identify subclinical nodal disease. Subclinical node metastases are present in about 30-50% of patients with primary MCC. The basis of MCC treatment is surgical excision. MCC is highly radiosensitive. It becomes chemoresistant within a few months. MCC is prone to recurrence. The outcomes in patients with metastatic disease are poor, with a historical 5-year survival of 13.5%. The median progression-free survival is 3-5 months, and the median overall survival is ten months. Currently, immunotherapy has become a standard of care first-line therapy for advanced MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Stachyra
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (M.D.-Ś.); (E.B.); (M.J.S.); (P.R.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Dudzisz-Śledź
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (M.D.-Ś.); (E.B.); (M.J.S.); (P.R.)
| | - Elżbieta Bylina
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (M.D.-Ś.); (E.B.); (M.J.S.); (P.R.)
- Department of Clinical Trials, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Szumera-Ciećkiewicz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Diagnostics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland;
- Department of Diagnostic Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, 00-791 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mateusz J. Spałek
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (M.D.-Ś.); (E.B.); (M.J.S.); (P.R.)
| | - Ewa Bartnik
- Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Piotr Rutkowski
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (M.D.-Ś.); (E.B.); (M.J.S.); (P.R.)
| | - Anna M. Czarnecka
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (M.D.-Ś.); (E.B.); (M.J.S.); (P.R.)
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
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13
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Suares A, Medina MV, Coso O. Autophagy in Viral Development and Progression of Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:603224. [PMID: 33763351 PMCID: PMC7982729 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.603224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a complex degradative process by which eukaryotic cells capture cytoplasmic components for subsequent degradation through lysosomal hydrolases. Although this catabolic process can be triggered by a great variety of stimuli, action in cells varies according to cellular context. Autophagy has been previously linked to disease development modulation, including cancer. Autophagy helps suppress cancer cell advancement in tumor transformation early stages, while promoting proliferation and metastasis in advanced settings. Oncoviruses are a particular type of virus that directly contribute to cell transformation and tumor development. Extensive molecular studies have revealed complex ways in which autophagy can suppress or improve oncovirus fitness while still regulating viral replication and determining host cell fate. This review includes recent advances in autophagic cellular function and emphasizes its antagonistic role in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Suares
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Medina
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Omar Coso
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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14
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Suares A, Medina MV, Coso O. Autophagy in Viral Development and Progression of Cancer. Front Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.603224
expr 816899697 + 824303767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a complex degradative process by which eukaryotic cells capture cytoplasmic components for subsequent degradation through lysosomal hydrolases. Although this catabolic process can be triggered by a great variety of stimuli, action in cells varies according to cellular context. Autophagy has been previously linked to disease development modulation, including cancer. Autophagy helps suppress cancer cell advancement in tumor transformation early stages, while promoting proliferation and metastasis in advanced settings. Oncoviruses are a particular type of virus that directly contribute to cell transformation and tumor development. Extensive molecular studies have revealed complex ways in which autophagy can suppress or improve oncovirus fitness while still regulating viral replication and determining host cell fate. This review includes recent advances in autophagic cellular function and emphasizes its antagonistic role in cancer cells.
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15
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Björn Andtback H, Björnhagen-Säfwenberg V, Shi H, Lui WO, Masucci GV, Villabona L. Sex Differences in Overall Survival and the Effect of Radiotherapy in Merkel Cell Carcinoma-A Retrospective Analysis of a Swedish Cohort. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13020265. [PMID: 33445741 PMCID: PMC7828197 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13020265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive skin cancer which is believed to be partially caused by a virus or ultraviolet exposure. Most previous studies have shown that MCC is more common in men compared to women, virus associated MCC has a better prognosis and surgery followed by radiotherapy gives a better outcome. In this article, we explore these traits in a Swedish cohort of 113 patients and find that MCC is more common in women and female patients have a longer survival compared to male patients. In addition, we found that virus negative MCC has a worse outcome in male patients and radiotherapy after surgery gives a better outcome for patients who are treated with a curative dosage, irrespective of sex. Abstract Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive skin cancer where Merkel cell Polyomavirus (MCPyV) contributes to the pathogenesis. In an adjuvant setting, radiotherapy (RT) is believed to give a survival benefit. The prognostic impact of sex related to MCPyV-status and adjuvant RT were analyzed in patients referred to Karolinska University Hospital. Data were collected from 113 patients’ hospital records and MCPyV analyses were made in 54 patients (48%). We found a significantly better overall survival (OS) for women compared to men and a significant difference in OS in patients receiving adjuvant RT. Furthermore, we found that men with virus negative MCC have an increased risk for earlier death (HR 3.6). This indicates that MCPyV positive and negative MCC act as two different diseases, and it might be due to different mechanism in the immune response between male and female patients. This could have significance in tailoring treatment and follow-up in MCC patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Björn Andtback
- Department Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute and BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden; (H.B.A.); (H.S.); (W.-O.L.); (G.V.M.)
| | | | - Hao Shi
- Department Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute and BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden; (H.B.A.); (H.S.); (W.-O.L.); (G.V.M.)
| | - Weng-Onn Lui
- Department Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute and BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden; (H.B.A.); (H.S.); (W.-O.L.); (G.V.M.)
| | - Giuseppe V. Masucci
- Department Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute and BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden; (H.B.A.); (H.S.); (W.-O.L.); (G.V.M.)
| | - Lisa Villabona
- Department Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute and BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden; (H.B.A.); (H.S.); (W.-O.L.); (G.V.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-736-63-98-98
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16
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Hu F, Tao X, Zhao L, Guo F, Zhou Q, Song H, Xiang H, Shang D. LncRNA-PVT1 aggravates severe acute pancreatitis by promoting autophagy via the miR-30a-5p/Beclin-1 axis. Am J Transl Res 2020; 12:5551-5562. [PMID: 33042437 PMCID: PMC7540137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is a serious abdominal disease associated with increased morbidity and high mortality rates. The initial pancreatic injury and inflammatory response, which begins within acinar cells, play vital roles in promoting SAP severity. Previous studies have indicated that overactivated autophagy in acinar cells increases the risk of SAP. Autophagy is affected by various signaling pathways, partially through long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)-PVT1. However, few studies have focused on the effect of lncRNA on autophagy in pancreatitis. Our results demonstrate that sodium taurocholate (STC) induces abnormal activation of the autophagic response in pancreatic acinar cells in vitro and in vivo. The lncRNA-PVT1 level was significantly upregulated in this process and was capable of targeting the miR-30a-5p/Beclin-1-mediated autophagy signaling pathway. Additionally, STC-induced pancreatic acinar cells injury and autophagy activation were all abrogated with the downregulation of lncRNA-PVT1 by shRNAs in vitro. Furthermore, we confirmed that the lncRNA-PVT1/miR-30a-5p/Beclin-1 axis induces abnormal autophagy in the pancreas of SAP rats. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the lncRNA-PVT1/miR-30a-5p/Beclin-1 axis is a potential target for improving SAP, thus providing a foundation for further development of therapeutics in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenglin Hu
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, China
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116044, China
| | - Xufeng Tao
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of TechnologyDalian 116024, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, China
| | - Fangyue Guo
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, China
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116044, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, China
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116044, China
| | - Huiyi Song
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, China
| | - Hong Xiang
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, China
| | - Dong Shang
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, China
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116044, China
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, China
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17
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Pietropaolo V, Prezioso C, Moens U. Merkel Cell Polyomavirus and Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1774. [PMID: 32635198 PMCID: PMC7407210 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses are the cause of approximately 15% of all human cancers. Both RNA and DNA human tumor viruses have been identified, with Merkel cell polyomavirus being the most recent one to be linked to cancer. This virus is associated with about 80% of Merkel cell carcinomas, a rare, but aggressive cutaneous malignancy. Despite its name, the cells of origin of this tumor may not be Merkel cells. This review provides an update on the structure and life cycle, cell tropism and epidemiology of the virus and its oncogenic properties. Putative strategies to prevent viral infection or treat virus-positive Merkel cell carcinoma patients are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pietropaolo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University, 00185 Rome, Italy; (V.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Carla Prezioso
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University, 00185 Rome, Italy; (V.P.); (C.P.)
- IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, Microbiology of Chronic Neuro-Degenerative Pathologies, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø—The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
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18
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Orouji E, Peitsch WK, Orouji A, Houben R, Utikal J. Unique Role of Histone Methyltransferase PRDM8 in the Tumorigenesis of Virus-Negative Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12041057. [PMID: 32344701 PMCID: PMC7226539 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12041057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a deadly skin cancer, and about 80% of its cases have been shown to harbor integrated Merkel polyomavirus in the tumor cell genome. Viral oncoproteins expressed in the tumor cells are considered as the oncogenic factors of these virus-positive Merkel cell carcinoma (VP-MCC). In contrast, the molecular pathogenesis of virus-negative MCC (VN-MCC) is less well understood. Using gene expression analysis of MCC cell lines, we found histone methyltransferase PRDM8 to be elevated in VN-MCC. This finding was confirmed by immunohistochemical analysis of MCC tumors, revealing that increased PRDM8 expression in VN-MCC is also associated with increased H3K9 methylation. CRISPR-mediated silencing of PRDM8 in MCC cells further supported the histone methylating role of this protein in VN-MCC. We also identified miR-20a-5p as a negative regulator of PRDM8. Taken together, our findings provide insights into the role of PRDM8 as a histone methyltransferase in VN-MCC tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Orouji
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Genomic Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
- Correspondence: (E.O.); (J.U.); Tel.: +1-(917)647-2202 (E.O.); +49-(621)383-4461 (J.U.)
| | - Wiebke K. Peitsch
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Dermatology and Phlebology, Vivantes Klinikum im Friedrichshain, 10249 Berlin, Germany
| | - Azadeh Orouji
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jochen Utikal
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- Correspondence: (E.O.); (J.U.); Tel.: +1-(917)647-2202 (E.O.); +49-(621)383-4461 (J.U.)
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19
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Boyer M, Cayrefourcq L, Dereure O, Meunier L, Becquart O, Alix-Panabières C. Clinical Relevance of Liquid Biopsy in Melanoma and Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040960. [PMID: 32295074 PMCID: PMC7226137 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma are two aggressive skin malignancies with high disease-related mortality and increasing incidence rates. Currently, invasive tumor tissue biopsy is the gold standard for their diagnosis, and no reliable easily accessible biomarker is available to monitor patients with melanoma or Merkel cell carcinoma during the disease course. In these last years, liquid biopsy has emerged as a candidate approach to overcome this limit and to identify biomarkers for early cancer diagnosis, prognosis, therapeutic response prediction, and patient follow-up. Liquid biopsy is a blood-based non-invasive procedure that allows the sequential analysis of circulating tumor cells, circulating cell-free and tumor DNA, and extracellular vesicles. These innovative biosources show similar features as the primary tumor from where they originated and represent an alternative to invasive solid tumor biopsy. In this review, the biology and technical challenges linked to the detection and analysis of the different circulating candidate biomarkers for melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma are discussed as well as their clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magali Boyer
- Laboratory of Rare Human Circulating Cells, University Medical Centre of Montpellier, 34093 Montpellier, France; (M.B.); (L.C.)
| | - Laure Cayrefourcq
- Laboratory of Rare Human Circulating Cells, University Medical Centre of Montpellier, 34093 Montpellier, France; (M.B.); (L.C.)
| | - Olivier Dereure
- Department of Dermatology and INSERM 1058 Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic Infections, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France;
| | - Laurent Meunier
- Department of Dermatology, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France; (L.M.); (O.B.)
| | - Ondine Becquart
- Department of Dermatology, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France; (L.M.); (O.B.)
| | - Catherine Alix-Panabières
- Laboratory of Rare Human Circulating Cells, University Medical Centre of Montpellier, 34093 Montpellier, France; (M.B.); (L.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-4-1175-99-31; Fax: +33-4-1175-99-33
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20
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Vescovo T, Pagni B, Piacentini M, Fimia GM, Antonioli M. Regulation of Autophagy in Cells Infected With Oncogenic Human Viruses and Its Impact on Cancer Development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:47. [PMID: 32181249 PMCID: PMC7059124 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
About 20% of total cancer cases are associated to infections. To date, seven human viruses have been directly linked to cancer development: high-risk human papillomaviruses (hrHPVs), Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), and human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1). These viruses impact on several molecular mechanisms in the host cells, often resulting in chronic inflammation, uncontrolled proliferation, and cell death inhibition, and mechanisms, which favor viral life cycle but may indirectly promote tumorigenesis. Recently, the ability of oncogenic viruses to alter autophagy, a catabolic process activated during the innate immune response to infections, is emerging as a key event for the onset of human cancers. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which human oncogenic viruses regulate autophagy and how this negative regulation impacts on cancer development. Finally, we highlight novel autophagy-related candidates for the treatment of virus-related cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Vescovo
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Benedetta Pagni
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" - IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Piacentini
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" - IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Fimia
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" - IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Antonioli
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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21
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Highly Expressed miR-375 is not an Intracellular Oncogene in Merkel Cell Polyomavirus-Associated Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12030529. [PMID: 32106526 PMCID: PMC7139599 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
miR-375 is a highly abundant miRNA in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). In other cancers, it acts as either a tumor suppressor or oncogene. While free-circulating miR-375 serves as a surrogate marker for tumor burden in patients with advanced MCC, its function within MCC cells has not been established. Nearly complete miR-375 knockdown in MCC cell lines was achieved using antagomiRs via nucleofection. The cell viability, growth characteristics, and morphology were not altered by this knockdown. miR-375 target genes and related signaling pathways were determined using Encyclopedia of RNA Interactomes (ENCORI) revealing Hippo signaling and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes likely to be regulated. Therefore, their expression was analyzed by multiplexed qRT-PCR after miR-375 knockdown, demonstrating only a limited change in expression. In summary, highly effective miR-375 knockdown in classical MCC cell lines did not significantly change the cell viability, morphology, or oncogenic signaling pathways. These observations render miR-375 an unlikely intracellular oncogene in MCC cells, thus suggesting that likely functions of miR-375 for the intercellular communication of MCC should be addressed.
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22
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Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer that has been historically associated with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. In the past 10 years, research in MCC has progressed significantly, demonstrating improved outcomes when treating with immunotherapy, particularly PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, when compared with conventional chemotherapy. There is also increasing evidence of the abscopal effect, a phenomenon describing the regression of untreated, distant MCC tumors following local radiation therapy. Additionally, antibodies to Merkel cell polyomavirus oncoproteins have been found to correlate with disease burden in a subset of patients, providing a useful tool for surveillance after treatment. Guidelines for the management of MCC will likely continue to change as research on surveillance and treatment of MCC continues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin G. Robinson
- Colorado Springs Dermatology Clinic, 170 South Parkside Drive, Colorado Springs, CO, 80910, USA
| | - Daniel Tan
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Siegrid S. Yu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
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