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Zhao Z, Shen X, Zhao S, Wang J, Tian Y, Wang X, Tang B. A novel telomere-related genes model for predicting prognosis and treatment responsiveness in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:12927-12951. [PMID: 37976136 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205211] [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: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a highly heterogeneous disease with diverse clinical and molecular features. Telomere maintenance is widely present in tumors, but there is a lack of relevant reports on the role of telomere-related genes (TRGs) in DLBCL. In this study, we used consensus clustering based on TRGs expression to identify two molecular clusters with distinct prognoses and immune cell infiltration. We developed a TRGs scoring model using univariate Cox regression and LASSO regression in the GSE10846 training cohort. DLBCL patients in the high-risk group had a worse prognosis than those in the low-risk group, as revealed by Kaplan-Meier curves. The scoring model was validated in the GSE10846 testing cohort and GSE87371 cohort, respectively. The high-risk group was characterized by elevated infiltration of activated DCs, CD56 dim natural killer cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, monocytes, and plasmacytoid DCs, along with reduced infiltration of activated CD4 T cells, Type 2 T helper cells, γδ T cells, NK cells, and neutrophils. Overexpression of immune checkpoints, such as PDCD1, CD274, and LAG3, was observed in the high-risk group. Furthermore, high-risk DLBCL patients exhibited increased sensitivity to bortezomib, rapamycin, AZD6244, and BMS.536924, while low-risk DLBCL patients showed sensitivity to cisplatin and ABT.263. Using RT-qPCR, we found that three protective model genes, namely TCEAL7, EPHA4, and ELOVL4, were down-regulated in DLBCL tissues compared with control tissues. In conclusion, our novel TRGs-based model has great predictive value for the prognosis of DLBCL patients and provides a promising direction for treatment optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijia Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaochen Shen
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siqi Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinhua Wang
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuqin Tian
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Tang
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, People’s Republic of China
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2
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Kaltsas A, Moustakli E, Zikopoulos A, Georgiou I, Dimitriadis F, Symeonidis EN, Markou E, Michaelidis TM, Tien DMB, Giannakis I, Ioannidou EM, Papatsoris A, Tsounapi P, Takenaka A, Sofikitis N, Zachariou A. Impact of Advanced Paternal Age on Fertility and Risks of Genetic Disorders in Offspring. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:486. [PMID: 36833413 PMCID: PMC9957550 DOI: 10.3390/genes14020486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The average age of fathers at first pregnancy has risen significantly over the last decade owing to various variables, including a longer life expectancy, more access to contraception, later marriage, and other factors. As has been proven in several studies, women over 35 years of age have an increased risk of infertility, pregnancy problems, spontaneous abortion, congenital malformations, and postnatal issues. There are varying opinions on whether a father's age affects the quality of his sperm or his ability to father a child. First, there is no single accepted definition of old age in a father. Second, much research has reported contradictory findings in the literature, particularly concerning the most frequently examined criteria. Increasing evidence suggests that the father's age contributes to his offspring's higher vulnerability to inheritable diseases. Our comprehensive literature evaluation shows a direct correlation between paternal age and decreased sperm quality and testicular function. Genetic abnormalities, such as DNA mutations and chromosomal aneuploidies, and epigenetic modifications, such as the silencing of essential genes, have all been linked to the father's advancing years. Paternal age has been shown to affect reproductive and fertility outcomes, such as the success rate of in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and premature birth rate. Several diseases, including autism, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and paediatric leukaemia, have been linked to the father's advanced years. Therefore, informing infertile couples of the alarming correlations between older fathers and a rise in their offspring's diseases is crucial, so that they can be effectively guided through their reproductive years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aris Kaltsas
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Efthalia Moustakli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Evangelos N. Symeonidis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleftheria Markou
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Theologos M. Michaelidis
- Department of Biological Applications and Technologies, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Biomedical Research Institute, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 45500 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Dung Mai Ba Tien
- Department of Andrology, Binh Dan Hospital, Ho chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
| | - Ioannis Giannakis
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | | | - Athanasios Papatsoris
- 2nd Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Sismanoglio Hospital, National and Kapodistrian Univesity of Athens, 15126 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiota Tsounapi
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan
| | - Atsushi Takenaka
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
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Tornesello ML, Cerasuolo A, Starita N, Tornesello AL, Bonelli P, Tuccillo FM, Buonaguro L, Isaguliants MG, Buonaguro FM. The Molecular Interplay between Human Oncoviruses and Telomerase in Cancer Development. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5257. [PMID: 36358677 PMCID: PMC9659228 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human oncoviruses are able to subvert telomerase function in cancer cells through multiple strategies. The activity of the catalytic subunit of telomerase (TERT) is universally enhanced in virus-related cancers. Viral oncoproteins, such as high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) E6, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) LMP1, Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (HHV-8) LANA, hepatitis B virus (HBV) HBVx, hepatitis C virus (HCV) core protein and human T-cell leukemia virus-1 (HTLV-1) Tax protein, interact with regulatory elements in the infected cells and contribute to the transcriptional activation of TERT gene. Specifically, viral oncoproteins have been shown to bind TERT promoter, to induce post-transcriptional alterations of TERT mRNA and to cause epigenetic modifications, which have important effects on the regulation of telomeric and extra-telomeric functions of the telomerase. Other viruses, such as herpesviruses, operate by integrating their genomes within the telomeres or by inducing alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) in non-ALT cells. In this review, we recapitulate on recent findings on virus-telomerase/telomeres interplay and the importance of TERT-related oncogenic pathways activated by cancer-causing viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lina Tornesello
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Andrea Cerasuolo
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Noemy Starita
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Anna Lucia Tornesello
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Patrizia Bonelli
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Franca Maria Tuccillo
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Buonaguro
- Cancer Immunoregulation Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Franco M. Buonaguro
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Napoli, Italy
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Sharqawi M, Hantisteanu S, Bilgory A, Aslih N, Shibli Abu Raya Y, Atzmon Y, Estrada D, Limonad O, Meisel-Sharon S, Shalom-Paz E. The Impact of Lifestyle on Sperm Function, Telomere Length, and IVF Outcomes. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221119931. [PMID: 36121249 PMCID: PMC9490467 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221119931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Many risk factors can potentially influence sperm quality. Telomeres confer stability on the chromosome and their dysfunction has been implicated in conditions such as cancer, aging, and lifestyle. The impact of lifestyle on sperm cell telomeres is unclear. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the impact of lifestyle behaviors on telomere length in sperm and to follow the correlation with pregnancy outcomes in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). In this prospective observational study, sperm was analyzed for telomere length (TL). Men were asked to report lifestyle behaviors including occupation (physical or sedentary), smoking duration and amount, physical activity, dietary habits, and where they keep their cellular phone (bag, pants, or shirt pocket). Correlations among semen analysis, TL, men's habits, and embryo quality and pregnancy outcomes were evaluated. Among 34 patients recruited, 12 had longer TL and 13 shorter TL. Sperm motility was negatively correlated with TL (Pearson correlation = -.588, p = .002). Smoking adversely affected native sperm motility (53% motility in nonsmokers vs. 37% in smokers; p = .006). However, there was no significant impact on TL. The group with longer telomeres demonstrated significant association with healthy diet (10/12 vs. 6/13; p = .05) and a trend toward more sports activity, weekly (16/84 vs. 7/91; p = .04) compared with the shorter telomeres group. This study suggests that lifestyle, healthy diet, and sports activity are associated with long telomeres in sperm. Sperm quality is also influenced by patients' habits. The study strongly recommends maintaining a healthy lifestyle to preserve general health and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moamina Sharqawi
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Shay Hantisteanu
- Gynecological Research Laboratory, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Asaf Bilgory
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Nardin Aslih
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Yasmin Shibli Abu Raya
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Yuval Atzmon
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Daniela Estrada
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Ofer Limonad
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | | | - Einat Shalom-Paz
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel,Ruth and Bruce Rappaport School of Medicine, The Technion Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel,Einat Shalom-Paz, Director of IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hashalom St., Hadera 38100, Israel.
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5
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Zambrano E, Nathanielsz PW, Rodríguez-González GL. Developmental programming and ageing of male reproductive function. Eur J Clin Invest 2021; 51:e13637. [PMID: 34107063 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Developmental programming predisposes offspring to metabolic, behavioural and reproductive dysfunction in adult life. Evidence is accumulating that ageing phenotype and longevity are in part developmentally programmed in each individual. Unfortunately, there are few studies addressing the effects of developmental programming by maternal nutrition on the rate of ageing of the male reproductive system. This review will discuss effects of foetal exposure to maternal environmental challenges on male offspring fertility and normal ageing of the male reproductive system. We focus on several key factors involved in reproductive ageing such as decreased hormone production, DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress, telomere shortening, epigenetics, maternal lifestyle and nutrition. There is compelling evidence that ageing of the male reproductive system is developmentally programmed. Both maternal over- or undernutrition accelerate ageing of male offspring reproductive function through similar mechanisms such as decreased serum testosterone levels, increase in oxidative stress biomarkers in both the testes and sperm and changes in sperm quality. Importantly, even in adult life, exercise in male offspring of obese mothers improves adverse effects of programming on reproductive function. Maternal consumption of a low-protein diet causes transgenerational effects in progeny via the paternal line. The seminal fluid has effects on the intrauterine environment. Programming by male factors may involve more than just the sperm. Improving knowledge on developmental programming ageing interactions will improve not only male health and life span but also the health of future generations by reducing programming via the paternal line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Zambrano
- Reproductive Biology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, México
| | | | - Guadalupe L Rodríguez-González
- Reproductive Biology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, México
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6
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Salimi-Jeda A, Badrzadeh F, Esghaei M, Abdoli A. The role of telomerase and viruses interaction in cancer development, and telomerase-dependent therapeutic approaches. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2021; 27:100323. [PMID: 33530025 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2021.100323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is an enzyme that is critically involved in elongating and maintaining telomeres length to control cell life span and replicative potential. Telomerase activity is continuously expressed in human germ-line cells and most cancer cells, whereas it is suppressed in most somatic cells. In normal cells, by reducing telomerase activity and progressively shortening the telomeres, the cells progress to the senescence or apoptosis process. However, in cancer cells, telomere lengths remain constant due to telomerase's reactivation, and cells continue to proliferate and inhibit apoptosis, and ultimately lead to cancer development and human death due to metastasis. Studies demonstrated that several DNA and RNA oncoviruses could interact with telomerase by integrating their genome sequence within the host cell telomeres specifically. Through the activation of the hTERT promoter and lengthening the telomere, these cells contributes to cancer development. Since oncoviruses can activate telomerase and increase hTERT expression, there are several therapeutic strategies based on targeting the telomerase of cancer cells like telomerase-targeted peptide vaccines, hTERT-targeting dendritic cells (DCs), hTERT-targeting gene therapy, and hTERT-targeting CRISPR/Cas9 system that can overcome tumor-mediated toleration mechanisms and specifically apoptosis in cancer cells. This study reviews available data on the molecular structure of telomerase and the role of oncoviruses and telomerase interaction in cancer development and telomerase-dependent therapeutic approaches to conquest the cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Salimi-Jeda
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Fariba Badrzadeh
- Faculti of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical sciences, Golestan, Iran.
| | - Maryam Esghaei
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Asghar Abdoli
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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7
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Adjiri A. Tracing the path of cancer initiation: the AA protein-based model for cancer genesis. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:831. [PMID: 30119662 PMCID: PMC6098654 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4739-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer is a defiant disease which cure is still far from being attained besides the colossal efforts and financial means deployed towards that end. The continuing setbacks encountered with today’s arsenal of anti-cancer drugs and cancer therapy modalities; show the need for a radical approach in order to get to the root of the problem. And getting to the root of cancer initiation and development leads us to challenge the present dogmas surrounding the pathogenesis of this disease. Results This comprehensive analysis brings to light the following points: (i) Cancer with its plethora of genetic and cellular symptoms could originate from one major event switching a cell from normalcy-to-malignancy; (ii) The switching event is postulated to involve a pathological breakup of a non-mutated protein, called here AA protein, resulting in the acquisition of new cellular functions present only in cancer cells; (iii) Following this event, DNA mutations begin to accumulate as secondary events to ensure perpetuity of cancer. Supporting arguments for this protein-based model come mainly from these observations: (i) The AA protein-based model reconciles together the clonal-and-stem cell theories into one inclusive model; (ii) The breakup of a normal protein could be behind the cancer-linked inflammation symptom; (iii) Cancer hallmarks are but adaptive traits, earned as a result of the switch from normalcy-to-malignancy. Conclusions Adaptation of cancer cells to their microenvironment and to different anti-cancer drugs is deemed here as the ultimate cancer hallmark, that needs to be understood and controlled. This adaptive power of cancer cells parallels that of bacteria also known with their resistance to a large range of substances in nature and in the laboratory. Consequently, cancer development could be viewed as a backward walk on the line of Evolution. Finally this unprecedented analysis demystifies cancer and puts the finger on the core problem of malignancy while offering ideas for its control with the ultimate goal of leading to its cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adouda Adjiri
- Physics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Sétif-1 University, 19000, Sétif, Algeria.
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8
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Rampazzo E, Bojnik E, Trentin L, Bonaldi L, Del Bianco P, Frezzato F, Visentin A, Facco M, Semenzato G, De Rossi A. Role of miR-15a/miR-16-1 and the TP53 axis in regulating telomerase expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Haematologica 2017; 102:e253-e256. [PMID: 28385779 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2016.157669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Rampazzo
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Section of Oncology and Immunology, University of Padova
| | - Engin Bojnik
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Section of Oncology and Immunology, University of Padova
| | - Livio Trentin
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Hematology Section, University of Padova
| | | | | | - Federica Frezzato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Hematology Section, University of Padova
| | - Andrea Visentin
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Hematology Section, University of Padova
| | - Monica Facco
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Hematology Section, University of Padova
| | - Gianpietro Semenzato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Hematology Section, University of Padova
| | - Anita De Rossi
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Section of Oncology and Immunology, University of Padova .,Istituto Oncologico Veneto-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
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9
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Ropio J, Merlio JP, Soares P, Chevret E. Telomerase Activation in Hematological Malignancies. Genes (Basel) 2016; 7:genes7090061. [PMID: 27618103 PMCID: PMC5039560 DOI: 10.3390/genes7090061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomerase expression and telomere maintenance are critical for cell proliferation and survival, and they play important roles in development and cancer, including hematological malignancies. Transcriptional regulation of the rate-limiting subunit of human telomerase reverse transcriptase gen (hTERT) is a complex process, and unveiling the mechanisms behind its reactivation is an important step for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Here, we review the main mechanisms of telomerase activation and the associated hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Ropio
- Cutaneous Lymphoma Oncogenesis Team INSERM U1053 Bordeaux Research in Translational Oncology, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux 33076, France.
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences of Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto 4050-313, Portugal.
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal.
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup)-Cancer Biology, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, Porto 4200-465, Portugal.
| | - Jean-Philippe Merlio
- Cutaneous Lymphoma Oncogenesis Team INSERM U1053 Bordeaux Research in Translational Oncology, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux 33076, France.
- Tumor Bank and Tumor Biology Laboratory, University Hospital Center Bordeaux, Pessac 33604, France.
| | - Paula Soares
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal.
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup)-Cancer Biology, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, Porto 4200-465, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Medical Faculty of Porto University, Porto 4200-319, Portugal.
| | - Edith Chevret
- Cutaneous Lymphoma Oncogenesis Team INSERM U1053 Bordeaux Research in Translational Oncology, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux 33076, France.
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10
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Giunco S, Rampazzo E, Celeghin A, Petrara MR, De Rossi A. Telomere and Telomerase in Carcinogenesis: Their Role as Prognostic Biomarkers. CURRENT PATHOBIOLOGY REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40139-015-0087-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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11
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Antunes DMF, Kalmbach KH, Wang F, Dracxler RC, Seth-Smith ML, Kramer Y, Buldo-Licciardi J, Kohlrausch FB, Keefe DL. A single-cell assay for telomere DNA content shows increasing telomere length heterogeneity, as well as increasing mean telomere length in human spermatozoa with advancing age. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1685-90. [PMID: 26411311 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0574-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The effect of age on telomere length heterogeneity in men has not been studied previously. Our aims were to determine the relationship between variation in sperm telomere length (STL), men's age, and semen parameters in spermatozoa from men undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. METHODS To perform this prospective cross-sectional pilot study, telomere length was estimated in 200 individual spermatozoa from men undergoing IVF treatment at the NYU Fertility Center. A novel single-cell telomere content assay (SCT-pqPCR) measured telomere length in individual spermatozoa. RESULTS Telomere length among individual spermatozoa within an ejaculate varies markedly and increases with age. Older men not only have longer STL but also have more variable STL compared to younger men. STL from samples with normal semen parameters was significantly longer than that from samples with abnormal parameters, but STL did not differ between spermatozoa with normal versus abnormal morphology. CONCLUSION The marked increase in STL heterogeneity as men age is consistent with a role for ALT during spermatogenesis. No data have yet reported the effect of age on STL heterogeneity. Based on these results, future studies should expand this modest sample size to search for molecular evidence of ALT in human testes during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M F Antunes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA.,Graduation Program in Pathology, Fluminense Federal University, Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 24033
| | - Keri H Kalmbach
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Roberta C Dracxler
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Michelle L Seth-Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Yael Kramer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Julia Buldo-Licciardi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Fabiana B Kohlrausch
- Graduation Program in Pathology, Fluminense Federal University, Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 24033
| | - David L Keefe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU School of Medicine, Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 180 Varick Street, New York, NY, 10014, USA.
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12
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Petrara MR, Giunco S, Serraino D, Dolcetti R, De Rossi A. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders: from epidemiology to pathogenesis-driven treatment. Cancer Lett 2015; 369:37-44. [PMID: 26279520 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2015.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLDs) represent the most severe complication of both solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is the main driver of PTLD, particularly those occurring early after transplantation. EBV-driven malignancies are associated with selective expression of latent viral proteins, but uncontrolled lytic replication may favor early phases of cell transformation. Besides immunodepression, persistent immune activation and chronic inflammation play an important role in both virus reactivation and expansion of EBV-infected B cells. EBV-induced immortalization requires the expression of telomerase. TERT, the rate-limiting component of the telomerase complex, is central in the switch from the lytic to the latent viral program, and TERT inhibition induces the EBV lytic cycle and cell death. Immunotherapy and combination of EBV lytic cycle inducers with antiviral drugs are promising strategies to improve the treatment of PTLD patients. This review is aimed at providing an update on the intriguing association between EBV and PTLD, mainly focusing on cases arising after kidney and liver transplantation, which account for the vast majority of transplants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Raffaella Petrara
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO)-IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano (PN), Italy; Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Giunco
- Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Diego Serraino
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO)-IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano (PN), Italy
| | - Riccardo Dolcetti
- Cancer Bio-Immunotherapy Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO)-IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano (PN), Italy
| | - Anita De Rossi
- Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico Veneto (IOV)-IRCCS, Padova, Italy.
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13
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Sharma R, Agarwal A, Rohra VK, Assidi M, Abu-Elmagd M, Turki RF. Effects of increased paternal age on sperm quality, reproductive outcome and associated epigenetic risks to offspring. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:35. [PMID: 25928123 PMCID: PMC4455614 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0028-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, there has been a significant increase in average paternal age when the first child is conceived, either due to increased life expectancy, widespread use of contraception, late marriages and other factors. While the effect of maternal ageing on fertilization and reproduction is well known and several studies have shown that women over 35 years have a higher risk of infertility, pregnancy complications, spontaneous abortion, congenital anomalies, and perinatal complications. The effect of paternal age on semen quality and reproductive function is controversial for several reasons. First, there is no universal definition for advanced paternal ageing. Secondly, the literature is full of studies with conflicting results, especially for the most common parameters tested. Advancing paternal age also has been associated with increased risk of genetic disease. Our exhaustive literature review has demonstrated negative effects on sperm quality and testicular functions with increasing paternal age. Epigenetics changes, DNA mutations along with chromosomal aneuploidies have been associated with increasing paternal age. In addition to increased risk of male infertility, paternal age has also been demonstrated to impact reproductive and fertility outcomes including a decrease in IVF/ICSI success rate and increasing rate of preterm birth. Increasing paternal age has shown to increase the incidence of different types of disorders like autism, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and childhood leukemia in the progeny. It is thereby essential to educate the infertile couples on the disturbing links between increased paternal age and rising disorders in their offspring, to better counsel them during their reproductive years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Sharma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Vikram K Rohra
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Mourad Assidi
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- KACST Technology Innovation Center in Personalized Medicine at King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Muhammad Abu-Elmagd
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- KACST Technology Innovation Center in Personalized Medicine at King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Rola F Turki
- KACST Technology Innovation Center in Personalized Medicine at King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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14
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Boscolo-Rizzo P, Rampazzo E, Perissinotto E, Piano MA, Giunco S, Baboci L, Spinato G, Spinato R, Tirelli G, Da Mosto MC, Del Mistro A, De Rossi A. Telomere shortening in mucosa surrounding the tumor: biosensor of field cancerization and prognostic marker of mucosal failure in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Oral Oncol 2015; 51:500-7. [PMID: 25771075 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2015.02.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Revised: 01/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to investigate the pattern of telomere length and telomerase expression in cancer tissues and the surrounding mucosa (SM), as markers of field cancerization and clinical outcome in patients successfully treated for with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS This investigation was a prospective cohort study. Telomere length and levels of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) transcripts were quantified by real-time PCR in cancer tissues and SM from 139 and 90 patients with HNSCC, respectively. RESULTS No correlation was found between age and telomere length in SM. Patients with short telomeres in SM had a higher risk of mucosal failure (adjusted HR=4.29). Patients with high TERT levels in cancer tissues had a higher risk of regional failure (HR=2.88), distant failure (HR=7.27), worse disease-specific survival (HR for related death=2.62) but not mucosal failure. High-risk patients having both short telomeres in SM and high levels of TERT in cancer showed a significantly lower overall survival (HR=2.46). CONCLUSIONS Overall these findings suggest that telomere shortening in SM is a marker of field cancerization and may precede reactivation of TERT. Short telomeres in SM are strongly prognostic of mucosal failure, whereas TERT levels in cancer tissues increase with the aggressiveness of the disease and are prognostic of tumor spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Boscolo-Rizzo
- Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Center for Head and Neck Cancer, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Enrica Rampazzo
- Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Egle Perissinotto
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Cardiological Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Piano
- Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Giunco
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico Veneto - IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Lorena Baboci
- Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giacomo Spinato
- Head and Neck Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | | | - Maria Cristina Da Mosto
- Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Center for Head and Neck Cancer, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Annarosa Del Mistro
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico Veneto - IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Anita De Rossi
- Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico Veneto - IRCCS, Padova, Italy.
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15
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Hosnijeh FS, Matullo G, Russo A, Guarrera S, Modica F, Nieters A, Overvad K, Guldberg P, Tjønneland A, Canzian F, Boeing H, Aleksandrova K, Trichopoulou A, Lagiou P, Trichopoulos D, Tagliabue G, Tumino R, Panico S, Palli D, Olsen KS, Weiderpass E, Dorronsoro M, Ardanaz E, Chirlaque MD, Sánchez MJ, Quirós JR, Venceslá A, Melin B, Johansson AS, Nilsson P, Borgquist S, Peeters PH, Onland-Moret NC, Bueno-de-Mesquita HB, Travis RC, Khaw KT, Wareham N, Brennan P, Ferrari P, Gunter MJ, Vineis P, Vermeulen R. Prediagnostic telomere length and risk of B-cell lymphoma-Results from the EPIC cohort study. Int J Cancer 2014; 135:2910-7. [PMID: 24771230 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.28934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Recent epidemiological investigations have reported on the association between telomere length (TL) and a number of malignancies, including B-cell lymphoma (BCL). The reported results for BCLs are however inconsistent. We carried out a nested case-control study to determine whether TL is associated with future risk of BCL. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, the relative TL (i.e. the ratio of telomere repeat copy number to single gene copy number) was measured in mononuclear cell DNA of prediagnostic peripheral blood samples of 464 lymphoma cases and 464 matched controls (median time between blood collection and diagnosis, 4.6 years). Conditional logistic regression was used to analyze the association between TL and the risk of developing lymphoma and histologic subtypes. TL was significantly longer in cases compared to controls (p = 0.01). Multivariable models showed a significantly increased risk of BCL [odds ratio (OR) = 1.66, 1.80 and 3.20 for quartiles 2-4, respectively, p-trend = 0.001], diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (OR = 1.20, 2.48 and 2.36 for quartiles 2-4, respectively, p-trend = 0.03) and follicular lymphoma (FL) (OR = 1.39, 1.90 and 2.69 for quartiles 2-4, respectively, p-trend = 0.02) with increasing TL. This study suggests an association between longer leucocyte TL and increased risk of BCL which was most pronounced for DLBCL and FL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Saberi Hosnijeh
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Division Environmental Epidemiology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
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16
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Martorana A, Balistreri CR, Bulati M, Buffa S, Azzarello DM, Camarda C, Monastero R, Caruso C, Colonna-Romano G. Double negative (CD19+IgG+IgD−CD27−) B lymphocytes: A new insight from telomerase in healthy elderly, in centenarian offspring and in Alzheimer's disease patients. Immunol Lett 2014; 162:303-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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17
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Bertorelle R, Rampazzo E, Pucciarelli S, Nitti D, Rossi AD. Telomeres, telomerase and colorectal cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:1940-1950. [PMID: 24616570 PMCID: PMC3934464 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i8.1940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Revised: 12/03/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide and, despite improved treatments, is still an important cause of cancer-related deaths. CRC encompasses a complex of diseases arising from a multi-step process of genetic and epigenetic events. Besides heterogeneity in the molecular and biological features of CRC, chromosomal instability is a hallmark of cancer and cancer cells may also circumvent replicative senescence and acquire the ability to sustain unlimited proliferation. Telomere/telomerase interplay is an important mechanism involved in both genomic stability and cellular replicative potential, and its dysfunction plays a key role in the oncogenetic process. The erosion of telomeres, mainly because of cell proliferation, may be accelerated by specific alterations in the genes involved in CRC, such as APC and MSH2. Although there is general agreement that the shortening of telomeres plays a role in the early steps of CRC carcinogenesis by promoting chromosomal instability, the prognostic role of telomere length in CRC is still under debate. The activation of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), the catalytic component of the telomerase complex, allows cancer cells to grow indefinitely by maintaining the length of the telomeres, thus favouring tumour formation/progression. Several studies indicate that TERT increases with disease progression, and most studies suggest that telomerase is a useful prognostic factor. Plasma TERT mRNA may also be a promising marker for the minimally invasive monitoring of disease progression and response to therapy.
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18
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Dolcetti R, Giunco S, Dal Col J, Celeghin A, Mastorci K, De Rossi A. Epstein-Barr virus and telomerase: from cell immortalization to therapy. Infect Agent Cancer 2014; 9:8. [PMID: 24572088 PMCID: PMC3943417 DOI: 10.1186/1750-9378-9-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Overcoming cellular senescence is strictly required for virus-driven tumors, including those associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). This critical step is successfully accomplished by EBV through TERT expression and telomerase activation in infected cells. We herein review the complex interplay between EBV and TERT/telomerase in EBV-driven tumorigenesis. Evidence accumulated so far clearly indicates that elucidation of this issue may offer promising opportunities for the design of innovative treatment modalities for EBV-associated malignancies. Indeed, several therapeutic strategies for telomerase inhibition have been developed and are being investigated in clinical trials. In this respect, our recent finding that TERT inhibition sensitizes EBV+ lymphoma cells to antivirals through activation of EBV lytic replication is particularly promising and provides a rationale for the activation of clinical studies aimed at assessing the effects of combination therapies with TERT inhibitors and antivirals for the treatment of EBV-associated malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Dolcetti
- Cancer Bio-Immunotherapy Unit, CRO Aviano, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy.
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19
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Ferlin A, Rampazzo E, Rocca MS, Keppel S, Frigo AC, De Rossi A, Foresta C. In young men sperm telomere length is related to sperm number and parental age. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:3370-6. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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20
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Petrara MR, Freguja R, Gianesin K, Zanchetta M, De Rossi A. Epstein-Barr virus-driven lymphomagenesis in the context of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection. Front Microbiol 2013; 4:311. [PMID: 24151490 PMCID: PMC3799006 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2013.00311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous human γ-herpes virus which establishes a life-long asymptomatic infection in immunocompetent hosts. In human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infected patients, the impaired immunosurveillance against EBV may favor the development of EBV-related diseases, ranging from lymphoproliferative disorders to B cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL). Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly modified the natural course of HIV-1 infection, resulting in decreased HIV-1 plasmaviremia, increased CD4 lymphocytes, and decreased opportunistic infections, indicating a restoration of immune functions. However, the impact of ART appears to be less favorable on EBV-related malignancies than on other AIDS-defining tumors, such as Kaposi's sarcoma, and NHL remains the most common cancer during the ART era. EBV-driven tumors are associated with selective expression of latent oncogenic proteins, but uncontrolled lytic cycle with virus replication and/or reactivation may favor cell transformation, at least in the early phases. Several host's factors may promote EBV reactivation and replication; besides immunodepression, inflammation/chronic immune stimulation may play an important role. Microbial pathogen-associated molecular patterns and endogenous damage-associated molecular patterns, through Toll-like receptors, activate the immune system and may promote EBV reactivation and/or polyclonal expansion of EBV-infected cells. A body of evidence suggests that chronic immune stimulation is a hallmark of HIV-1 pathogenesis and may persist even in ART-treated patients. This review focuses on lymphomagenesis driven by EBV both in the context of the natural history of HIV-1 infection and in ART-treated patients. Understanding the mechanisms involved in the expansion of EBV-infected cells is a premise for the identification of prognostic markers of EBV-associated malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria R Petrara
- Viral Oncology Unit and AIDS Reference Center, Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova Padova, Italy
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21
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Falci C, Gianesin K, Sergi G, Giunco S, De Ronch I, Valpione S, Soldà C, Fiduccia P, Lonardi S, Zanchetta M, Keppel S, Brunello A, Zafferri V, Manzato E, De Rossi A, Zagonel V. Immune senescence and cancer in elderly patients: results from an exploratory study. Exp Gerontol 2013; 48:1436-42. [PMID: 24120567 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2013.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2013] [Revised: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The challenge of immune senescence has never been addressed in elderly cancer patients. This study compares the thymic output and peripheral blood telomere length in ≥70year old cancer patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS Fifty-two elderly cancer patients and 39 age-matched controls without personal history of cancer were enrolled. All patients underwent a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA), from which a multidimensional prognostic index (MPI) score was calculated. Peripheral blood samples were studied for naïve and recent thymic emigrant (RTE) CD4(+) and CD8(+) cells by flow cytometry. T-cell receptor rearrangement excision circle (TREC) levels, telomere length and telomerase activity in peripheral blood cells were quantified by real-time PCR. RESULTS The percentages of CD8(+) naïve and CD8(+) RTE cells and TREC levels were significantly lower in cancer patients than in controls (p=0.003, p=0.004, p=0.031, respectively). Telomere lengths in peripheral blood cells were significantly shorter in cancer patients than in controls (p=0.046) and did not correlate with age in patients, whereas it did in controls (r=-0.354, p=0.031). Short telomere (≤median)/low TREC (≤median) profile was associated with higher risk of cancer (OR=3.68 [95% CI 1.22-11.11]; p=0.021). Neither unfitness on CGA nor MPI score were significantly related to thymic output or telomere length in either group. CONCLUSIONS Immune senescence is significantly worse in elderly cancer patients than in age-matched controls. The low thymic output and the shorter telomeres in peripheral blood cells of cancer patients may reflect a pre-existing condition which facilitates the onset of malignancies in elderly people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Falci
- Medical Oncology Unit II, Istituto Oncologico Veneto (IOV), IRCCS, Padova, Italy
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Development of a novel redirected T-cell–based adoptive immunotherapy targeting human telomerase reverse transcriptase for adult T-cell leukemia. Blood 2013; 121:4894-901. [DOI: 10.1182/blood-2012-11-465971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Key Points
The efficacy and safety of a novel redirected T-cell–based adoptive immunotherapy targeting hTERT for patients with adult T-cell leukemia. hTERT-specific T-cell receptor gene-transduced CD8+ T cells lyse ATL cells, but not normal cells, both in vitro and in vivo.
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23
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Yamada O, Kawauchi K. The role of the JAK-STAT pathway and related signal cascades in telomerase activation during the development of hematologic malignancies. JAKSTAT 2013; 2:e25256. [PMID: 24416646 PMCID: PMC3876434 DOI: 10.4161/jkst.25256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2013] [Revised: 05/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomerase, comprising a reverse transcriptase protein (TERT) and an RNA template, plays a critical role during senescence and carcinogenesis; however, the mechanisms by which telomerase is regulated remain to be elucidated. Several signaling pathways are involved in the activation of TERT at multistep levels. The JAK-STAT pathway is indispensable for mediating signals through growth factor and cytokine receptors during the development of hematopoietic cells, and its activity is frequently upregulated in hematological malignancies. Here, we review the role of the JAK-STAT pathway and related signaling cascades in the regulation of telomerase in hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Yamada
- Medical Research Institute and Department of Hematology; Tokyo Women's Medical University; Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyotaka Kawauchi
- Department of Medicine; Tokyo Women's Medical University; Medical Center East; Tokyo, Japan ; Nishiogu Clinic; Tokyo, Japan
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24
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Giunco S, Dolcetti R, Keppel S, Celeghin A, Indraccolo S, Dal Col J, Mastorci K, De Rossi A. hTERT inhibition triggers Epstein-Barr virus lytic cycle and apoptosis in immortalized and transformed B cells: a basis for new therapies. Clin Cancer Res 2013; 19:2036-47. [PMID: 23444223 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-2537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Induction of viral lytic cycle, which induces death of host cells, may constitute a useful adjunct to current therapeutic regimens for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-driven malignancies. Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), essential for the oncogenic process, may modulate the switch from latent to lytic infection. The possible therapeutic role of hTERT inhibition combined with antiviral drugs was investigated. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN EBV-negative BL41 and convertant EBV-positive BL41/B95.8 Burkitt's lymphoma cell lines and lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL) were infected with retroviral vector encoding short hairpin RNA (shRNA) anti-hTERT and cultured with or without the prodrug ganciclovir. The effects on EBV lytic replication, cell proliferation, and apoptosis were characterized. RESULTS hTERT silencing by shRNA induced the expression of BZLF1, EA-D, and gp350 EBV lytic proteins and triggered a complete lytic cycle. This effect was associated with downregulation of BATF, a negative regulator of BZLF1 transcription. hTERT silencing also resulted in antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects. In particular, hTERT inhibition induced an accumulation of cells in the S-phase, an effect likely due to the dephosphorylation of 4E-BP1, an AKT1-dependent substrate, which results in a decreased availability of proteins needed for cell-cycle progression. Besides inducing cell death through activation of complete EBV lytic replication, hTERT inhibition triggered AKT1/FOXO3/NOXA-dependent apoptosis in EBV-positive and -negative Burkitt's lymphoma cells. Finally, ganciclovir enhanced the apoptotic effect induced by hTERT inhibition in EBV-positive Burkitt's lymphomas and LCLs. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that combination of antiviral drugs with strategies able to inhibit hTERT expression may result in therapeutically relevant effects in patients with EBV-related malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giunco
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Section of Oncology and Immunology, University of Padova, Italy
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25
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Bertorelle R, Briarava M, Rampazzo E, Biasini L, Agostini M, Maretto I, Lonardi S, Friso ML, Mescoli C, Zagonel V, Nitti D, De Rossi A, Pucciarelli S. Telomerase is an independent prognostic marker of overall survival in patients with colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 2013; 108:278-84. [PMID: 23322193 PMCID: PMC3566802 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2012.602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an important cause of cancer-related death. Prediction of recurrence is an important issue in the treatment of disease, particularly for stage II patients. The level of telomere-specific reverse transcriptase (hTERT), the catalytic component of the telomerase complex, increases along with CRC progression, but its prognostic value is still unclear. Methods: One hundred and thirty-seven CRC patients were studied for hTERT expression in tumour cells by real-time PCR. hTERT level was evaluated as a prognostic factor of overall survival (OS) in all patients and of disease recurrence in a subgroup of 50 stage II patients. Results: The median hTERT level was 93.8 copies (interquartile range 48–254). Patients with high hTERT levels (above the median) showed a significantly worse survival than those with low hTERT levels (below the median; log-rank test P<0.0001; hazard ratio (HR)=3.30 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.98–5.52); P<0.0001). The negative prognostic value of high hTERT level is independent of the pathological stage and microsatellite instability (HR=2.09 (95% CI 1.20–3.64), P=0.009). Moreover, in stage II CRC, high hTERT levels identified patients with a higher risk of disease recurrence (HR=3.06 (95% CI 1.03–9.04), P=0.043) and death (HR=3.24 (95% CI 1.37–7.71), P=0.008). Conclusion: hTERT level is an independent prognostic marker of OS in CRC patients. In addition, assessment of hTERT level could improve stratification of stage II CRC patients for the risk of disease recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Bertorelle
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico Veneto, IRCCS, Via Gattamelata 64, 35128 Padova, Italy
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Rampazzo E, Bonaldi L, Trentin L, Visco C, Keppel S, Giunco S, Frezzato F, Facco M, Novella E, Giaretta I, Del Bianco P, Semenzato G, De Rossi A. Telomere length and telomerase levels delineate subgroups of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia with different biological characteristics and clinical outcomes. Haematologica 2011; 97:56-63. [PMID: 21933855 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2011.049874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia is a clinically heterogeneous disease; some patients rapidly progress and die within a few years of diagnosis, whereas others have a long life expectancy with minimal or no treatment. Telomere length and telomerase levels have been proposed as prognostic factors; however, very few cases have been characterized for both parameters and no study has analyzed the prognostic value of the telomere/telomerase profile. DESIGN AND METHODS One hundred and seventy-three cases of chronic lymphocytic leukemia were characterized for telomere lengths and telomerase levels by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Data were correlated with established prognostic markers, IGVH mutational status and chromosomal aberrations, and clinical outcome. RESULTS Telomere lengths were inversely correlated with telomerase levels (r(s) = -0.213; P = 0.012), and most of the cases of chronic lymphocytic leukemia with high levels (above median) of telomerase had short (below median) telomeres (P = 0.0001). Telomerase levels were higher and telomeres were shorter in unmutated IGVH cases than in mutated IGVH ones (P<0.0001). Chronic lymphocytic leukemias with 11q, 17p deletion or 12 trisomy had significantly higher levels of telomerase and shorter telomeres than those with no chromosomal aberration or the sole 13q deletion (P < 0.001). Telomere length/telomerase level profiles identified subgroups of patients with different clinical outcomes (P < 0.0001), even within the subsets of chronic lymphocytic leukemia defined by IGVH mutational status or chromosomal aberrations. Short telomere/high telomerase profile was independently associated with more rapid disease progression. CONCLUSIONS Comprehensive analyses of telomeres, telomerase, chromosomal aberrations, and IGVH mutational status delineate groups of chronic lymphocytic leukemias with distinct biological characteristics and clinical outcomes. The telomere/telomerase profile may be particularly useful in refining the prognosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients with mutated IGVH and no high-risk chromosomal aberrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Rampazzo
- Department of Oncology and Surgical Sciences, Oncology Section, University of Padova,Padova, Italy
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Spolverato G, Pucciarelli S, Bertorelle R, De Rossi A, Nitti D. Predictive factors of the response of rectal cancer to neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2011; 3:2176-94. [PMID: 24212803 PMCID: PMC3757411 DOI: 10.3390/cancers3022176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2011] [Revised: 04/08/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Locally advanced rectal cancer is currently treated with pre-operative radiochemotherapy (pRCT), but the response is not uniform. Identification of patients with higher likelihood of responding to pRCT is clinically relevant, as patients with resistant tumors could be spared exposure to radiation or DNA-damaging drugs that are associated with adverse side effects. To highlight predictive biomarkers of response to pRCT, a systematic search of PubMed was conducted with a combination of the following terms: "rectal", "predictive", "radiochemotherapy", "neoadjuvant", "response" and "biomarkers". Genetic polymorphisms in epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) and thymidylate synthase (TS) genes, the expression of several markers, such as EGFR, bcl-2/bax and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and circulating biomarkers, such as serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level, are promising as predictor markers, but need to be further evaluated. The majority of the studies did not support the predictive value of p53, while the values of Ki-67, TS and p21 is still controversial. Gene expression profiles of thousands of genes using microarrays, microRNA studies and the search for new circulating molecules, such as human telomerase reverse transcriptase mRNA and cell-free DNA, are providing interesting results that might lead to the identification of new useful biomarkers. Evaluation of biomarkers in larger, prospective trials are required to guide therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaya Spolverato
- Department of Oncology and Surgical Sciences, Section of Surgery, University of Padova, Padova 35128, Italy; E-Mails: (G.S.); (S.P.); (D.N.)
| | - Salvatore Pucciarelli
- Department of Oncology and Surgical Sciences, Section of Surgery, University of Padova, Padova 35128, Italy; E-Mails: (G.S.); (S.P.); (D.N.)
| | | | - Anita De Rossi
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto-IRCCS, Padova 35128, Italy; E-Mail: (R.B.)
- Department of Oncology and Surgical Sciences, Section of Oncology, University of Padova, Padova 35128, Italy
| | - Donato Nitti
- Department of Oncology and Surgical Sciences, Section of Surgery, University of Padova, Padova 35128, Italy; E-Mails: (G.S.); (S.P.); (D.N.)
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