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Furst LM, Roussel EM, Leung RF, George AM, Best SA, Whittle JR, Firestein R, Faux MC, Eisenstat DD. The Landscape of Pediatric High-Grade Gliomas: The Virtues and Pitfalls of Pre-Clinical Models. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:424. [PMID: 38927304 PMCID: PMC11200883 DOI: 10.3390/biology13060424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG) are malignant and usually fatal central nervous system (CNS) WHO Grade 4 tumors. The majority of pHGG consist of diffuse midline gliomas (DMG), H3.3 or H3.1 K27 altered, or diffuse hemispheric gliomas (DHG) (H3.3 G34-mutant). Due to diffuse tumor infiltration of eloquent brain areas, especially for DMG, surgery has often been limited and chemotherapy has not been effective, leaving fractionated radiation to the involved field as the current standard of care. pHGG has only been classified as molecularly distinct from adult HGG since 2012 through Next-Generation sequencing approaches, which have shown pHGG to be epigenetically regulated and specific tumor sub-types to be representative of dysregulated differentiating cells. To translate discovery research into novel therapies, improved pre-clinical models that more adequately represent the tumor biology of pHGG are required. This review will summarize the molecular characteristics of different pHGG sub-types, with a specific focus on histone K27M mutations and the dysregulated gene expression profiles arising from these mutations. Current and emerging pre-clinical models for pHGG will be discussed, including commonly used patient-derived cell lines and in vivo modeling techniques, encompassing patient-derived xenograft murine models and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs). Lastly, emerging techniques to model CNS tumors within a human brain environment using brain organoids through co-culture will be explored. As models that more reliably represent pHGG continue to be developed, targetable biological and genetic vulnerabilities in the disease will be more rapidly identified, leading to better treatments and improved clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam M. Furst
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (L.M.F.); (E.M.R.); (R.F.L.); (M.C.F.)
- Stem Cell Medicine, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
| | - Enola M. Roussel
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (L.M.F.); (E.M.R.); (R.F.L.); (M.C.F.)
- Stem Cell Medicine, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia;
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Ryan F. Leung
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (L.M.F.); (E.M.R.); (R.F.L.); (M.C.F.)
- Stem Cell Medicine, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
| | - Ankita M. George
- Stem Cell Medicine, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
| | - Sarah A. Best
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - James R. Whittle
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia;
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Ron Firestein
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia;
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Maree C. Faux
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (L.M.F.); (E.M.R.); (R.F.L.); (M.C.F.)
- Stem Cell Medicine, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - David D. Eisenstat
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (L.M.F.); (E.M.R.); (R.F.L.); (M.C.F.)
- Stem Cell Medicine, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Children’s Cancer Centre, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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2
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Sahu U, Barth RF, Otani Y, McCormack R, Kaur B. Rat and Mouse Brain Tumor Models for Experimental Neuro-Oncology Research. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2022; 81:312-329. [PMID: 35446393 PMCID: PMC9113334 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlac021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Rodent brain tumor models have been useful for developing effective therapies for glioblastomas (GBMs). In this review, we first discuss the 3 most commonly used rat brain tumor models, the C6, 9L, and F98 gliomas, which are all induced by repeated injections of nitrosourea to adult rats. The C6 glioma arose in an outbred Wistar rat and its potential to evoke an alloimmune response is a serious limitation. The 9L gliosarcoma arose in a Fischer rat and is strongly immunogenic, which must be taken into consideration when using it for therapy studies. The F98 glioma may be the best of the 3 but it does not fully recapitulate human GBMs because it is weakly immunogenic. Next, we discuss a number of mouse models. The first are human patient-derived xenograft gliomas in immunodeficient mice. These have failed to reproduce the tumor-host interactions and microenvironment of human GBMs. Genetically engineered mouse models recapitulate the molecular alterations of GBMs in an immunocompetent environment and “humanized” mouse models repopulate with human immune cells. While the latter are rarely isogenic, expensive to produce, and challenging to use, they represent an important advance. The advantages and limitations of each of these brain tumor models are discussed. This information will assist investigators in selecting the most appropriate model for the specific focus of their research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upasana Sahu
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rolf F Barth
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Yoshihiro Otani
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ryan McCormack
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Balveen Kaur
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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3
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Magdoom KN, Delgado F, Bohórquez AC, Brown AC, Carney PR, Rinaldi C, Mareci TH, Ewing JR, Sarntinoranont M. Longitudinal evaluation of tumor microenvironment in rat focal brainstem glioma using diffusion and perfusion MRI. J Magn Reson Imaging 2018; 49:1322-1332. [PMID: 30318760 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.26315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brainstem gliomas are aggressive and difficult to treat. Growth of these tumors may be characterized with MRI methods. PURPOSE To visualize longitudinal changes in tumor volume, vascular leakiness, and tissue microstructure in an animal model of brainstem glioma. STUDY TYPE Prospective animal model. ANIMAL MODEL Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 9) were imaged with 9L gliosarcoma cells infused into the pontine reticular formation of the brainstem. The MRI tumor microenvironment was studied at 3 and 10 days postimplantation of tumor cells. FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI were performed at 4.7T using spin-echo multislice echo planar imaging and gradient echo multislice imaging, respectively. ASSESSMENT Tumor leakiness was assessed by the forward volumetric transfer constant, Ktrans , estimated from DCE-MRI data. Tumor structure was evaluated with fractional anisotropy (FA) obtained from DTI. Tumor volumes, delineated by a T1 map, T2 -weighted image, FA, and DCE signal enhancement were compared. STATISTICAL TESTS Changes in the assessed parameters within and across the groups (ie, rats 3 and 10 days post tumor cell implantation) were evaluated with Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. RESULTS Day 3 tumors were visible mainly on contrast-enhanced images, while day 10 tumors were visible in both contrast-enhanced and diffusion-weighted images. Mean Ktrans at day 10 was 41% lower than at day 3 (P = 0.23). In day 10 tumors, FA was regionally lower in the tumor compared to normal tissue (P = 0.0004), and tumor volume, segmented based on FA map, was significantly smaller (P ≤ 0.05) than that obtained from other contrasts. DATA CONCLUSION Contrast-enhanced MRI was found to be more sensitive in detecting early-stage tumor boundaries than other contrasts. Areas of the tumor outlined by DCE-MRI and DTI were significantly different. Over the observed period of tumor growth, average vessel leakiness decreased with tumor progression. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2 Technical Efficacy: Stage 3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1322-1332.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kulam Najmudeen Magdoom
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Francisco Delgado
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ana C Bohórquez
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Alec C Brown
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Paul R Carney
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Carlos Rinaldi
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Gainesville, Florida, USA.,Department of Chemical Engineering University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Thomas H Mareci
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Gainesville, Florida, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - James R Ewing
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Malisa Sarntinoranont
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.,J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Souza TKF, Nucci MP, Mamani JB, da Silva HR, Fantacini DMC, de Souza LEB, Picanço-Castro V, Covas DT, Vidoto EL, Tannús A, Gamarra LF. Image and motor behavior for monitoring tumor growth in C6 glioma model. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201453. [PMID: 30048545 PMCID: PMC6062126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary objective of this study is to monitor tumor growth by using image techniques and behavioral testing through general and specific motor activities (spontaneous movements and gait). Our sample includes male Wistar rats, 2 months old and weighing 250-300 g, that is categorized into three groups: control, sham, and experimental. The experimental group was anesthetized; the C6 cells with luciferase expression that were suspended in a culture medium were implanted into the right frontoparietal cortex of the rats. The sham group received implant only with culture medium without cells. Images and behavioral tests were evaluated at base time and at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after induced tumor growth analysis. The tumor volume measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and quantitative bioluminescence imaging (BLI) signal showed a correlation coefficient of r = 0.96. The MRI showed that the mean tumor volume increased by approximately 10, 26, and 49 times according to a comparison of tumor volume on the seventh day with 14, 21, and 28 days, respectively. The quantification of the BLI signal was (4.12 ± 2.01) x 10(8), (8.33 ± 3.12) x 10(8), (28.43 ± 6.32) x 10(8), and (63.02 ± 10.53) x 10(8) photons/s at the seventh, fourteenth, twenty-first, and twenty-eighth day, respectively. After 14 days of tumor induction, both behavioral tests showed significant differences between tumor and sham or control groups. Our study showed a high correlation between MRI and BLI for tumor growth monitoring with complement aspects analysis in tumor volume. In addition, functional behavioral analysis displayed sensitivity to monitor tumor growth, as well as to detect early significant changes between groups, primarily in the tumor group. The results of gait analysis were more sensitive than general motor analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Virginia Picanço-Castro
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Dimas Tadeu Covas
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Edson Luis Vidoto
- CIERMag-Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alberto Tannús
- CIERMag-Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lionel Fernel Gamarra
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Santa Casa Misericórdia de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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5
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Developing chemotherapy for diffuse pontine intrinsic gliomas (DIPG). Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2017; 120:111-119. [PMID: 29198324 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Prognosis of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is poor, with a median survival of 10 months after radiation. At present, chemotherapy has failed to show benefits over radiation. Advances in biotechnology have enabled the use of autopsy specimens for genomic analyses and molecular profiling of DIPG, which are quite different from those of supratentorial high grade glioma. Recently, combined treatments of cytotoxic agents with target inhibitors, based on biopsied tissue, are being examined in on-going trials. Spontaneous DIPG mice models have been recently developed that is useful for preclinical studies. Finally, the convection-enhanced delivery could be used to infuse drugs directly into the brainstem parenchyma, to which conventional systemic administration fails to achieve effective concentration. The WHO glioma classification defines a diffuse midline glioma with a H3-K27M-mutation, and we expect increase of tissue confirmation of DIPG, which will give us the biological information helping the development of a targeted therapy.
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6
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Xu C, Liu X, Geng Y, Bai Q, Pan C, Sun Y, Chen X, Yu H, Wu Y, Zhang P, Wu W, Wang Y, Wu Z, Zhang J, Wang Z, Yang R, Lewis J, Bigner D, Zhao F, He Y, Yan H, Shen Q, Zhang L. Patient-derived DIPG cells preserve stem-like characteristics and generate orthotopic tumors. Oncotarget 2017; 8:76644-76655. [PMID: 29100338 PMCID: PMC5652732 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a devastating brain tumor, with a median survival of less than one year. Due to enormous difficulties in the acquisition of DIPG specimens and the sophisticated technique required to perform brainstem orthotopic injection, only a handful of DIPG pre-clinical models are available. In this study, we successfully established eight patient-derived DIPG cell lines, mostly derived from treatment-naïve surgery or biopsy specimens. These patient-derived cell lines can be stably passaged in serum-free neural stem cell media and displayed distinct morphologies, growth rates and chromosome abnormalities. In addition, these cells retained genomic hallmarks identical to original human DIPG tumors. Notably, expression of several neural stem cell lineage markers was observed in DIPG cell lines. Moreover, three out of eight cell lines can form orthotopic tumors in mouse brainstem by stereotactic injection and these tumors faithfully represented the characteristics of human DIPG by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histopathological staining. Taken together, we established DIPG pre-clinical models resembling human DIPG and they provided a valuable resource for future biological and therapeutic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Center for Life Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua-NIBS Graduate Program, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yibo Geng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qingran Bai
- Center for Life Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua-NIBS Graduate Program, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Changcun Pan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hai Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuliang Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhao Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Junting Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaohui Wang
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jenna Lewis
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Darell Bigner
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Yiping He
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hai Yan
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Qin Shen
- Center for Life Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Liwei Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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7
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Long W, Yi Y, Chen S, Cao Q, Zhao W, Liu Q. Potential New Therapies for Pediatric Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:495. [PMID: 28790919 PMCID: PMC5525007 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an extensively invasive malignancy with infiltration into other regions of the brainstem. Although large numbers of specific targeted therapies have been tested, no significant progress has been made in treating these high-grade gliomas. Therefore, the identification of new therapeutic approaches is of great importance for the development of more effective treatments. This article reviews the conventional therapies and new potential therapeutic approaches for DIPG, including epigenetic therapy, immunotherapy, and the combination of stem cells with nanoparticle delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyong Long
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangsha, China
| | - Yang Yi
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhou, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhou, China
| | - Shen Chen
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhou, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhou, China
| | - Qi Cao
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, HoustonTX, United States
| | - Wei Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhou, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhou, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangsha, China
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8
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Yadavilli S, Scafidi J, Becher OJ, Saratsis AM, Hiner RL, Kambhampati M, Mariarita S, MacDonald TJ, Codispoti KE, Magge SN, Jaiswal JK, Packer RJ, Nazarian J. The emerging role of NG2 in pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Oncotarget 2016; 6:12141-55. [PMID: 25987129 PMCID: PMC4494928 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs) have a dismal prognosis and are poorly understood brain cancers. Receptor tyrosine kinases stabilized by neuron-glial antigen 2 (NG2) protein are known to induce gliomagenesis. Here, we investigated NG2 expression in a cohort of DIPG specimens (n= 50). We demonstrate NG2 expression in the majority of DIPG specimens tested and determine that tumors harboring histone 3.3 mutation express the highest NG2 levels. We further demonstrate that microRNA 129-2 (miR129-2) is downregulated and hypermethylated in human DIPGs, resulting in the increased expression of NG2. Treatment with 5-Azacytidine, a methyltransferase inhibitor, results in NG2 downregulation in DIPG primary tumor cells in vitro. NG2 expression is altered (symmetric segregation) in mitotic human DIPG and mouse tumor cells. These mitotic cells co-express oligodendrocyte (Olig2) and astrocyte (glial fibrillary acidic protein, GFAP) markers, indicating lack of terminal differentiation. NG2 knockdown retards cellular migration in vitro, while NG2 expressing neurospheres are highly tumorigenic in vivo, resulting in rapid growth of pontine tumors. NG2 expression is targetable in vivo using miR129-2 indicating a potential avenue for therapeutic interventions. This data implicates NG2 as a molecule of interest in DIPGs especially those with H3.3 mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sridevi Yadavilli
- Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Joseph Scafidi
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Oren J Becher
- Department of Pediatrics and Pathology, Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Amanda M Saratsis
- Division of Neurosurgery, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rebecca L Hiner
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, NY, USA
| | - Madhuri Kambhampati
- Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Santi Mariarita
- Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Tobey J MacDonald
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Suresh N Magge
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jyoti K Jaiswal
- Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Integrative Systems Biology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Roger J Packer
- Brain Tumor Institute, Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Javad Nazarian
- Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Integrative Systems Biology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
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9
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Misuraca KL, Cordero FJ, Becher OJ. Pre-Clinical Models of Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. Front Oncol 2015; 5:172. [PMID: 26258075 PMCID: PMC4513210 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2015.00172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a rare and incurable brain tumor that arises in the brainstem of children predominantly between the ages of 6 and 8. Its intricate morphology and involvement of normal pons tissue precludes surgical resection, and the standard of care today remains fractionated radiation alone. In the past 30 years, there have been no significant advances made in the treatment of DIPG. This is largely because we lack good models of DIPG and therefore have little biological basis for treatment. In recent years, however, due to increased biopsy and acquisition of autopsy specimens, research is beginning to unravel the genetic and epigenetic drivers of DIPG. Insight gleaned from these studies has led to improvements in approaches to both model these tumors in the lab and to potentially treat them in the clinic. This review will detail the initial strides toward modeling DIPG in animals, which included allograft and xenograft rodent models using non-DIPG glioma cells. Important advances in the field came with the development of in vitro cell and in vivo xenograft models derived directly from autopsy material of DIPG patients or from human embryonic stem cells. Finally, we will summarize the progress made in the development of genetically engineered mouse models of DIPG. Cooperation of studies incorporating all of these modeling systems to both investigate the unique mechanisms of gliomagenesis in the brainstem and to test potential novel therapeutic agents in a preclinical setting will result in improvement in treatments for DIPG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L Misuraca
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, NC , USA
| | | | - Oren J Becher
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, NC , USA ; Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, NC , USA
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10
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Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an aggressive tumor that is universally fatal, and to-date we are at a virtual standstill in improving its grim prognosis. Dearth of tissue due to rarity of biopsy has precluded understanding the elusive biology and frustration continues in reproducing faithful animal models for translational research. Furthermore the intricate anatomy of the pons has forestalled locoregional therapy and drug penetration. Over the last few years, biopsy-driven targeted therapy, development of vitro and xenograft animal models for therapeutic testing, profiling immunotherapeutic strategies and locoregional infusion of drugs in brain stem tumors, now provide a sense of hope in the years ahead. This review aims to discuss current status and advances in the management of these tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumen Khatua
- Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 87, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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11
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Mathieu D, Lecomte R, Tsanaclis AM, Larouche A, Fortin D. Standardization and Detailed Characterization of the Syngeneic Fischer/F98 Glioma Model. Can J Neurol Sci 2014; 34:296-306. [PMID: 17803026 DOI: 10.1017/s0317167100006715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Introduction:Adequate animal glioma models are mandatory for the pursuit of preclinical research in neuro-oncology. Many implantation models have been described, but none perfectly emulate human malignant gliomas. This work reports our experience in standardizing, optimizing and characterizing the Fischer/F98 glioma model on the clinical, pathological, radiological and metabolic aspects.Materials and methods:F98 cells were implanted in 70 Fischer rats, varying the quantity of cells and volume of implantation solution, and using a micro-infusion pump to minimize implantation trauma, after adequate coordinates were established. Pathological analysis consisted in hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemistry for GFAP, vimentin, albumin, TGF-b1, TGF-b2, CD3 and CD45. Twelve animals were used for MR imaging at 5, 10, 15 and 20 days. Corresponding MR images were compared with pathological slides. Two animals underwent 18F-FDG and 11C-acetate PET studies for metabolic characterization of the tumors.Results:Implantation with 1x104 cells produced a median survival of 26 days and a tumor take of 100%. Large infiltrative neoplasms with a necrotic core were seen on H&E. Numerous mitosis, peritumoral infiltrative behavior, and neovascular proliferation were also obvious. GFAP and vimentin staining was positive inside the tumor cells. Albumin staining was observed in the extracellular space around the tumors. CD3 staining was negligible. The MR images correlated the pathologic findings. 18F-FDG uptake was strong in the tumors.Conclusion:The standardized model described in this study behaves in a predictable and reproducible fashion, and could be considered for future pre-clinical studies. It adequately mimics the behavior of human malignant astrocytomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Mathieu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Neurosurgery and Neuro-oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke. Sherbrooke University, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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12
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Mesenchymal stem cells as cellular vehicles for prodrug gene therapy against tumors. Biochimie 2014; 105:4-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2014.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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13
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Itakura G, Kobayashi Y, Nishimura S, Iwai H, Takano M, Iwanami A, Toyama Y, Okano H, Nakamura M. Control of the Survival and Growth of Human Glioblastoma Grafted Into the Spinal Cord of Mice by Taking Advantage of Immunorejection. Cell Transplant 2014; 24:1299-311. [PMID: 24818989 DOI: 10.3727/096368914x681711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that transplantation of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurospheres can promote functional recovery after spinal cord injury in rodents, as well as in nonhuman primates. However, the potential tumorigenicity of the transplanted cells remains a matter of apprehension prior to clinical applications. As a first step to overcome this concern, this study established a glioblastoma multiforme xenograft model mouse. The feasibility of controlling immune suppression to ablate the grafted cells was then investigated. The human glioblastoma multiforme cell line U251 MG was transplanted into the intact spinal cords of immunodeficient NOD/SCID mice or into those of immunocompetent C57BL/6J H-2kb mice treated with or without immunosuppressants [FK506 plus anticluster of differentiation (CD) 4 antibody (Ab), or FK506 alone]. In vivo bioluminescent imaging was used to evaluate the chronological survival of the transplanted cells. The graft survival rate was 100% (n = 9/9) in NOD/SCID mice, 0% (n = 6/6) in C57BL/6J mice without immunosuppressant treatment, and 100% (n = 37/37) in C57BL6/J mice with immunosuppressant treatment. After confirming the growth of the grafted cells in the C57/BL6J mice treated with immunosuppressants, immune suppression was discontinued. The grafted cells were subsequently rejected within 3 days in C57BL/6J mice treated with FK506 alone, as opposed to 26 days in C57BL/6J mice treated with FK506 plus anti-CD4 Ab. Histological evaluation confirmed the ablation of the grafted cells. Although this work describes a xenograft setting, the results suggest that this immunomodulatory strategy could provide a safety lock against tumor formation stemming from transplanted cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Go Itakura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
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Wang Y, Tian Y, Wan H, Li D, Wu W, Yin L, Jiang J, Wan W, Zhang L. Differences between brainstem gliomas in juvenile and adult rats. Oncol Lett 2013; 6:246-250. [PMID: 23946812 PMCID: PMC3742815 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2013.1319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 04/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical studies have shown that gliomas of the brainstem behave differently in children and adults. The aim of the present study was to compare and analyze the differences between these gliomas in juvenile and adult rats with regard to tumor growth, survival, pathology and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A total of 25 juvenile and 25 adult Wistar rats were divided into groups A (15 juvenile rats), B (10 juvenile rats), C (15 adult rats) and D (10 adult rats). The rats of groups A and C (experimental) were injected with glioma cells, while groups B and D (control) were injected with a physiological saline solution. Rat neurological signs, survival time, tumor size, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemical staining for MMP-2, MMP-9 and β-catenin were compared. The survival time of group A was 19.47±2.232 days, whereas that of group C was 21.47±2.232 days (P<0.05). The tumor sizes were 4.55 and 4.62 mm (P>0.05) in groups A and C, respectively. HE and immunohistochemical staining revealed no differences between the groups. The results suggest that the growth patterns and invasiveness of brainstem gliomas may vary in children compared with adults due to the varied biological behaviors of the tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
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15
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Choi SA, Lee JY, Wang KC, Phi JH, Song SH, Song J, Kim SK. Human adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells: Characteristics and therapeutic potential as cellular vehicles for prodrug gene therapy against brainstem gliomas. Eur J Cancer 2012; 48:129-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2011.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2010] [Revised: 03/31/2011] [Accepted: 04/20/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Donoghue JF, Bogler O, Johns TG. A simple guide screw method for intracranial xenograft studies in mice. J Vis Exp 2011:3157. [PMID: 21968439 PMCID: PMC3230180 DOI: 10.3791/3157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The grafting of human tumor cells into the brain of immunosuppressed mice is an established method for the study of brain cancers including glioblastoma (glioma) and medulloblastoma. The widely used stereotactic approach only allows for the injection of a single animal at a time, is labor intensive and requires highly specialized equipment. The guide screw method, initially developed by Lal et al.,1 was developed to eliminate cumbersome stereotactic procedures. We now describe a modified guide screw approach that is rapid and exceptionally safe; both of which are critical ethical considerations. Notably, our procedure now incorporates an infusion pump that allows up to 10 animals to be simultaneously injected with tumor cells. To demonstrate the utility of this procedure, we established human U87MG glioma cells as intracranial xenografts in mice, which were then treated with AMG102; a fully human antibody directed to HGF/scatter factor currently undergoing clinical evaluation2-5. Systemic injection of AMG102 significantly prolonged the survival of all mice with intracranial U87MG xenografts and resulted in a number of complete cures. This study demonstrates that the guide screw method is an inexpensive, highly reproducible approach for establishing intracranial xenografts. Furthermore, it provides a relevant physiological model for validating novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of brain cancers.
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Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma-current status and future strategies. Childs Nerv Syst 2011; 27:1391-7. [PMID: 21533575 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-011-1468-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2011] [Accepted: 04/15/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas which constitute 15% of all childhood brain tumors are inoperable and response to radiation and chemotherapy has not improved long-term survival. Due to lack of newer effective therapies, mean survival after diagnosis has remained less than 12 months. Trials investigating chemotherapy and/or radiation have proven disappointing. As biopsy of these tumors are rarely performed due to the high eloquence of the brain stem, information about the pathology and biology remains elusive hindering development of novel biologic agents. Poor access of most chemotherapeutic agents to these tumors due to the blood-brain barrier continues to undermine therapeutic efficacy. Thus, to date, we remain at a virtual standstill in our attempts to improve the prognosis of children with these tumors. METHODS An extensive review of the literature was performed concerning children with diffuse brain stem gliomas including clinical trials, evolving molecular biology, and newer therapeutic endeavors. CONCLUSION A pivotal approach in improving the prognosis of these tumors should include the initiation of biopsy and encouraging families to consider autopsy to study the molecular biology. This will help in redefining this tumor by its molecular signature and profiling targeted therapy. Continued advances should be pursued in neuroimaging technology including identifying surrogate markers of early disease progression. Defining strategies to enhance local delivery of drugs into tumors with the help of newer surgical techniques are important. Exhaustive research in all these aspects as a multidisciplinary approach could provide hope to children with these fatal tumors.
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Caretti V, Zondervan I, Meijer DH, Idema S, Vos W, Hamans B, Bugiani M, Hulleman E, Wesseling P, Vandertop WP, Noske DP, Kaspers G, Molthoff CFM, Wurdinger T. Monitoring of tumor growth and post-irradiation recurrence in a diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma mouse model. Brain Pathol 2010; 21:441-51. [PMID: 21159008 DOI: 10.1111/j.1750-3639.2010.00468.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a fatal malignancy because of its diffuse infiltrative growth pattern. Translational research suffers from the lack of a representative DIPG animal model. Hence, human E98 glioma cells were stereotactically injected into the pons of nude mice. The E98 DIPG tumors presented a strikingly similar histhopathology to autopsy material of a DIPG patient, including diffuse and perivascular growth, brainstem- and supratentorial invasiveness and leptomeningeal growth. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was effectively employed to image the E98 DIPG tumor. [(18) F] 3'-deoxy-3'-[(18) F]fluorothymidine (FLT) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging was applied to assess the subcutaneous (s.c.) E98 tumor proliferation status but no orthotopic DIPG activity could be visualized. Next, E98 cells were cultured in vitro and engineered to express firefly luciferase and mCherry (E98-Fluc-mCherry). These cultured E98-Fluc-mCherry cells developed focal pontine glioma when injected into the pons directly. However, the diffuse E98 DIPG infiltrative phenotype was restored when cells were injected into the pons immediately after an intermediate s.c. passage. The diffuse E98-Fluc-mCherry model was subsequently used to test escalating doses of irradiation, applying the bioluminescent Fluc signal to monitor tumor recurrence over time. Altogether, we here describe an accurate DIPG mouse model that can be of clinical relevance for testing experimental therapeutics in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viola Caretti
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam
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Moreno L, Chesler L, Hargrave D, Eccles SA, Pearson ADJ. Preclinical drug development for childhood cancer. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2010; 6:49-64. [DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2011.537652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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20
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Masui K, Suzuki SO, Torisu R, Goldman JE, Canoll P, Iwaki T. Glial progenitors in the brainstem give rise to malignant gliomas by platelet-derived growth factor stimulation. Glia 2010; 58:1050-65. [PMID: 20468047 DOI: 10.1002/glia.20986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Glial progenitors in the white matter and the subventricular zone are the major population of cycling cells in the postnatal central nervous system, and thought to be candidates for glioma-initiating cells. However, less is known about the dividing cell populations in the brainstem than those in the cerebrum, leading to the lag of basic understanding of brainstem gliomas. We herein demonstrate much fewer cycling glial progenitors exist in the brainstem than in the cerebrum. We also show that infecting brainstem glial progenitors with PDGFB-green fluorescent protein (GFP)-expressing retrovirus induced tumors that closely resembled human malignant gliomas. Of note, brainstem tumors grew more slowly than cerebral tumors induced by the same retrovirus, and >80% tumor cells in the brainstem consisted of GFP-positive, infected progenitors while GFP-positive cells in the cerebral tumors were <20%. These indicate that cerebral tumors progressed rapidly by recruiting resident progenitors via paracrine mechanism whereas brainstem tumors grew more slowly by clonal expansion of the infected population. The cerebral and brainstem glial progenitors similarly showed reversible dedifferentiation upon PDGF stimulation in vitro and did not show the intrinsic difference in terms of the responsiveness to PDGF. We therefore suggest that slower, monoclonal progression pattern of the brainstem tumors is at least partly due to the environmental factors including the cell density of the glial progenitors. Together, these findings are the first implications regarding the cell-of-origin and the gliomagenesis in the brainstem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Masui
- Department of Neuropathology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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21
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Siu IM, Tyler BM, Chen JX, Eberhart CG, Thomale UW, Olivi A, Jallo GI, Riggins GJ, Gallia GL. Establishment of a human glioblastoma stemlike brainstem rodent tumor model. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2010; 6:92-7. [PMID: 20593994 DOI: 10.3171/2010.3.peds09366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Diffuse brainstem tumors are the most difficult type of pediatric CNS malignancy to treat. These inoperable lesions are treated with radiation alone or in combination with chemotherapy, and the survival rate is less than 10%. It is therefore essential to develop a reliable animal model to screen new therapeutic agents for the treatment of this type of tumor. METHODS A multipotent human glioblastoma stemlike neurosphere line, 060919, was established from a surgically resected glioblastoma specimen; when cells were implanted intracranially into athymic nude mice, they formed invasive, vascular tumors that exhibited the features of glioblastoma. Ten female Fischer 344 rats received an injection of 75,000 F98 rat glioma cells and 10 female athymic nude rats received an injection of 75,000 060919 human glioblastoma stemlike cells in the pontine tegmentum of the brainstem. A control group of 5 female Fischer rats received an injection of saline in the same location as the animals in the tumor groups. Kaplan-Meier curves were generated for survival, and brains were processed postmortem for histopathological investigation. RESULTS Both F98 cells and 060919 cells grew in 100% of the animals injected. Median survival of animals injected with F98 was 15 days, consistent with the authors' previous reports on the establishment of the brainstem tumor model using the F98 rat glioma line. Median survival of animals injected with 060919 was 31 days. Histopathological analysis of the tumors confirmed the presence of brainstem lesions in animals that received brainstem injections of F98 and in animals that received brainstem injections of 060919. The 060919 brainstem tumors histologically resembled glioblastoma. CONCLUSIONS Tumor take and median survival were consistent for animals injected in the brainstem with either the established F98 rat glioma cell line or the 060919 human glioblastoma stemlike neurosphere line. Histopathological features of the 060919 brainstem tumors resembled glioblastoma. Establishment of this human glioblastoma stemlike brainstem animal model will improve the evaluation and identification of more efficacious agents for the treatment of high-grade brainstem tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-Mei Siu
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA
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Becher OJ, Hambardzumyan D, Walker TR, Helmy K, Nazarian J, Albrecht S, Hiner RL, Gall S, Huse JT, Jabado N, MacDonald TJ, Holland EC. Preclinical evaluation of radiation and perifosine in a genetically and histologically accurate model of brainstem glioma. Cancer Res 2010; 70:2548-57. [PMID: 20197468 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-09-2503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Brainstem gliomas (BSG) are a rare group of central nervous system tumors that arise mostly in children and usually portend a particularly poor prognosis. We report the development of a genetically engineered mouse model of BSG using the RCAS/tv-a system and its implementation in preclinical trials. Using immunohistochemistry, we found that platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor alpha is overexpressed in 67% of pediatric BSGs. Based on this observation, we induced low-grade BSGs by overexpressing PDGF-B in the posterior fossa of neonatal nestin tv-a mice. To generate high-grade BSGs, we overexpressed PDGF-B in combination with Ink4a-ARF loss, given that this locus is commonly lost in high-grade pediatric BSGs. We show that the likely cells of origin for these mouse BSGs exist on the floor of the fourth ventricle and cerebral aqueduct. Irradiation of these high-grade BSGs shows that although single doses of 2, 6, and 10 Gy significantly increased the percent of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive nuclei, only 6 and 10 Gy significantly induce cell cycle arrest. Perifosine, an inhibitor of AKT signaling, significantly induced TUNEL-positive nuclei in this high-grade BSG model, but in combination with 10 Gy, it did not significantly increase the percent of TUNEL-positive nuclei relative to 10 Gy alone at 6, 24, and 72 hours. Survival analysis showed that a single dose of 10 Gy significantly prolonged survival by 27% (P = 0.0002) but perifosine did not (P = 0.92). Perifosine + 10 Gy did not result in a significantly increased survival relative to 10 Gy alone (P = 0.23). This PDGF-induced BSG model can serve as a preclinical tool for the testing of novel agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oren J Becher
- Departments of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Brain Tumor Center, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10021, USA
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Hashizume R, Ozawa T, Dinca EB, Banerjee A, Prados MD, James CD, Gupta N. A human brainstem glioma xenograft model enabled for bioluminescence imaging. J Neurooncol 2009; 96:151-9. [PMID: 19585223 PMCID: PMC2808534 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-009-9954-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2009] [Accepted: 06/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Despite the use of radiation and chemotherapy, the prognosis for children with diffuse brainstem gliomas is extremely poor. There is a need for relevant brainstem tumor models that can be used to test new therapeutic agents and delivery systems in pre-clinical studies. We report the development of a brainstem-tumor model in rats and the application of bioluminescence imaging (BLI) for monitoring tumor growth and response to therapy as part of this model. Luciferase-modified human glioblastoma cells from five different tumor cell sources (either cell lines or serially-passaged xenografts) were implanted into the pontine tegmentum of athymic rats using an implantable guide-screw system. Tumor growth was monitored by BLI and tumor volume was calculated by three-dimensional measurements from serial histopathologic sections. To evaluate if this model would allow detection of therapeutic response, rats bearing brainstem U-87 MG or GS2 glioblastoma xenografts were treated with the DNA methylating agent temozolomide (TMZ). For each of the tumor cell sources tested, BLI monitoring revealed progressive tumor growth in all animals, and symptoms caused by tumor burden were evident 26–29 days after implantation of U-87 MG, U-251 MG, GBM6, and GBM14 cells, and 37–47 days after implantation of GS2 cells. Histopathologic analysis revealed tumor growth within the pons in all rats and BLI correlated quantitatively with tumor volume. Variable infiltration was evident among the different tumors, with GS2 tumor cells exhibiting the greatest degree of infiltration. TMZ treatment groups were included for experiments involving U-87 MG and GS2 cells, and in each case TMZ delayed tumor growth, as indicated by BLI monitoring, and significantly extended survival of animal subjects. Our results demonstrate the development of a brainstem tumor model in athymic rats, in which tumor growth and response to therapy can be accurately monitored by BLI. This model is well suited for pre-clinical testing of therapeutics that are being considered for treatment of patients with brainstem tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rintaro Hashizume
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Brain Tumor Research Center, University of California, 505 Parnassus Ave., Room M779, San Francisco, CA 94143-0112, USA
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Kondo A, Goldman S, Vanin EF, Sredni ST, Rajaram V, Soares MB, Tomita T. An experimental brainstem tumor model using in vivo bioluminescence imaging in rat. Childs Nerv Syst 2009; 25:527-33. [PMID: 19139905 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-008-0783-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Currently, there is no conclusive treatment for brainstem tumor. To facilitate the development of new treatments, it is essential to establish predictive preclinical in vivo models in which therapeutic modalities can be evaluated. Although a few rodent models have been reported, there is no novel approach that can monitor tumor response qualitatively and quantitatively. MATERIALS AND METHODS Bioluminescence imaging was used to characterize a rat brainstem tumor model. In this model, 9L gliosarcoma cells, transduced with an onco-retroviral vector containing the luciferase coding sequence, were inoculated into Fisher 344 rats. RESULT Histopathological assessment showed successful cell implantation into the brainstem. There was a strong correlation between pathological tumor volume and luminescence strength. Longitudinal quantitative responses of the tumor after application of a therapeutic agent were also demonstrated. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates a robust rodent model with the ability to monitor brainstem tumor growth and response to chemotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihide Kondo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Memorial Medical Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 2300 Children's Plaza, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.
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Barth RF, Kaur B. Rat brain tumor models in experimental neuro-oncology: the C6, 9L, T9, RG2, F98, BT4C, RT-2 and CNS-1 gliomas. J Neurooncol 2009; 94:299-312. [PMID: 19381449 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-009-9875-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 288] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2009] [Accepted: 03/16/2009] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In this review we will describe eight commonly used rat brain tumor models and their application for the development of novel therapeutic and diagnostic modalities. The C6, 9L and T9 gliomas were induced by repeated injections of methylnitrosourea (MNU) to adult rats. The C6 glioma has been used extensively for a variety of studies, but since it arose in an outbred Wistar rat, it is not syngeneic to any inbred strain, and its potential to evoke an alloimmune response is a serious limitation. The 9L gliosarcoma has been used widely and has provided important information relating to brain tumor biology and therapy. The T9 glioma, although not generally recognized, was and probably still is the same as the 9L. Both of these tumors arose in Fischer rats and can be immunogenic in syngeneic hosts, a fact that must be taken into consideration when used in therapy studies, especially if survival is the endpoint. The RG2 and F98 gliomas were both chemically induced by administering ethylnitrosourea (ENU) to pregnant rats, the progeny of which developed brain tumors that subsequently were propagated in vitro and cloned. They are either weakly or non-immunogenic and have an invasive pattern of growth and uniform lethality, which make them particularly attractive models to test new therapeutic modalities. The CNS-1 glioma was induced by administering MNU to a Lewis rat. It has an infiltrative pattern of growth and is weakly immunogenic, which should make it useful in experimental neuro-oncology. Finally, the BT4C glioma was induced by administering ENU to a BD IX rat, following which brain cells were propagated in vitro until a tumorigenic clone was isolated. This tumor has been used for a variety of studies to evaluate new therapeutic modalities. The Avian Sarcoma Virus (ASV) induced tumors, and a continuous cell line derived from one of them designated RT-2, have been useful for studies in which de novo tumor induction is an important requirement. These tumors also are immunogenic and this limits their usefulness for therapy studies. It is essential to recognize the limitations of each of the models that have been described, and depending upon the nature of the study to be conducted, it is important that the appropriate model be selected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolf F Barth
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, 165 Hamilton Hall, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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Frazier JL, Lee J, Thomale UW, Noggle JC, Cohen KJ, Jallo GI. Treatment of diffuse intrinsic brainstem gliomas: failed approaches and future strategies. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2009; 3:259-69. [PMID: 19338403 DOI: 10.3171/2008.11.peds08281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas constitute ~ 60-75% of tumors found within the pediatric brainstem. These malignant lesions present with rapidly progressive symptoms such as cranial nerve, long tract, or cerebellar dysfunctions. Magnetic resonance imaging is usually sufficient to establish the diagnosis and obviates the need for surgical biopsy in most cases. The prognosis of the disease is dismal, and the median survival is < 12 months. Resection is not a viable option. Standard therapy involves radiotherapy, which produces transient neurological improvement with a progression-free survival benefit, but provides no improvement in overall survival. Clinical trials have been conducted to assess the efficacy of chemotherapeutic and biological agents in the treatment of diffuse pontine gliomas. In this review, the authors discuss recent studies in which systemic therapy was administered prior to, concomitantly with, or after radiotherapy. For future perspective, the discussion includes a rationale for stereotactic biopsies as well as possible therapeutic options of local chemotherapy in these lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- James L Frazier
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Thomale UW, Tyler B, Renard V, Dorfman B, Chacko VP, Carson BS, Haberl EJ, Jallo GI. Neurological grading, survival, MR imaging, and histological evaluation in the rat brainstem glioma model. Childs Nerv Syst 2009; 25:433-41. [PMID: 19082613 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-008-0767-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Convection-enhanced delivery using carboplatin in brainstem glioma models was reported to prolong survival. Functional impairment is of additional importance to evaluate the value of local chemotherapy. We established a neurological scoring system for the rat brainstem glioma model. MATERIAL AND METHODS In 46 male Fisher rats stereotactically 10(5) F-98 cells were implanted at 1.4-mm lateral to midline and at the lambdoid suture using guided screws. Following 4 days local delivery was performed using Alzet pumps (1 microl/h over 7 days) with either vehicle (5% dextrose) or carboplatin via one or two cannulas, respectively. All rats were subsequently tested neurologically using a specified neurological score. In 38 animals survival time was recorded. Representative MR imaging were acquired in eight rats, respectively, at day 12 after implantation. HE staining was used to evaluate tumor extension. RESULTS Neurological scoring showed significantly higher impairment in the high dose carboplatin group during the treatment period. Survival was significantly prolonged compared to control animals in the high dose carboplatin-one cannula group as well as in both low dose carboplatin groups (18.6 +/- 3 versus 26.3 +/- 9, 22.8 +/- 2, 23.6 +/- 2 days; p < 0.05). Overall neurological grading correlated with survival time. MR imaging showed a focal contrast enhancing mass in the pontine brainstem, which was less exaggerated after local chemotherapy. Histological slices visualized decreased cellular density in treatment animals versus controls. CONCLUSION Local chemotherapy in the brainstem glioma model showed significant efficacy for histological changes and survival. Our neurological grading enables quantification of drug and tumor-related morbidity as an important factor for functional performance during therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- U W Thomale
- Division of Pediatric Neurological Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ira J. Dunkel
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; and
| | - Mark M. Souweidane
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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Thomale UW, Tyler B, Renard VM, Dorfman B, Guarnieri M, Haberl HE, Jallo GI. Local chemotherapy in the rat brainstem with multiple catheters: a feasibility study. Childs Nerv Syst 2009; 25:21-8. [PMID: 18690465 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-008-0684-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTS Technical aspects of local chemotherapy in inoperable brainstem gliomas by convection-enhanced delivery (CED) are still under experimental considerations. In this study, we characterize the feasibility of multiple cannula placements in the rat brainstem. MATERIALS AND METHODS In 38 male Fisher rats, up to three guided screws were positioned in burr holes paramedian at 2.5 mm anterior and posterior to as well as at the lambdoid suture. Using Alzettrade mark pumps (1 microl/h flow rate over 7 days) either vehicle (5% dextrose) or 0.1 mg carboplatin was delivered via one, two, or three cannulas, respectively. During cannula insertion, electrocardiogram and respiratory rate was monitored. All rats were subsequently evaluated neurologically for 8 days. For drug distribution in coronal sections, the brain tissue concentration of platinum was measured. HE staining was used to evaluate the local site of drug delivery. Heart and respiratory rate remained within normal range during surgical procedure. Neurological scoring showed only mild neurological impairment in the groups receiving two or three cannulas, which resolved after vehicle delivery. However, after carboplatin delivery, this deficit remained unchanged. Drug distribution was more homogeneous in the three cannula group. Histological slices visualized edematous changes at the sight of cannula placement. CONCLUSION The unilateral application of up to three cannulas in the brainstem of rats for local drug delivery studies is feasible. The remaining neurological deficit in carboplatin-treated animals underlines the need of low toxicity drugs for CED in the brainstem.
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Affiliation(s)
- U W Thomale
- Selbständiger Arbeitsbereich Pädiatrische Neurochirurgie, Charité, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburgr Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
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Liu Q, Liu R, Kashyap MV, Agarwal R, Shi X, Wang CC, Yang SH. Brainstem glioma progression in juvenile and adult rats. J Neurosurg 2008; 109:849-55. [PMID: 18976074 DOI: 10.3171/jns/2008/109/11/0849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Brainstem gliomas are common in children and have the worst prognosis of any brain tumor in this age group. On the other hand, brainstem gliomas are rare in adults, and the authors of some clinical studies have suggested that this lesion behaves differently in adults than in children. In the present study, the authors test an orthotopic C6 brainstem glioma model in juvenile and adult rats, and investigate the biological behavior of this lesion in the 2 age groups. METHODS The C6 glioma cells were stereotactically implanted into the pons of juvenile or adult male rats. Neurological presentation and survival time were recorded. Tumor proliferation and the number of apoptotic cells in brainstem gliomas of young and adult rats were determined by immunohistochemical staining with Ki 67 and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate-mediated nick-end labeling assay. RESULTS Striking differences in the onset of neurological signs, duration of symptoms, survival time, tumor growth pattern, tumor proliferation, and number of apoptotic cells were found between the gliomas in the 2 groups of rats. The lesions were relatively focal in adult rats but more diffuse in young rats. Furthermore, brainstem gliomas in adult rats were less proliferative and had more apoptotic cells than those in young rats. CONCLUSIONS The authors found that the C6 brainstem glioma model in young and adult rats closely imitates the course of brainstem glioma in humans both in neurological findings and histopathological characteristics. Their findings also suggest that the different growth pattern and invasiveness of these lesions in children compared with that in adults could be due to different cellular environments in the 2 age groups, and warrants further investigation into the difference in the host response to brainstem gliomas in children and adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas 76107, USA
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Microsurgical removal of intramedullary spinal cord gliomas in a rat spinal cord decreases onset to paresis, an animal model for intramedullary tumor treatment. Childs Nerv Syst 2008; 24:901-7. [PMID: 18317780 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-008-0587-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Intramedullary spinal cord tumors (IMSCT) pose significant challenges given their recurrence rate and limited treatment options. Using our previously described rat model of IMSCT, we describe a technique for microsurgical tumor resection and present the functional and histopathological analysis of tumor progression. METHODS Twenty-four Fischer 344 rats were randomized into two groups. All animals received a 5-microl intramedullary injection of 9L gliosarcoma cells. Animals were evaluated daily for signs of paralysis using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) scale. Group 1 continued with daily assessments using the BBB scale following tumor implantation, but received no further treatment. Group 2 underwent surgical removal of intramedullary tumor on postoperative day five. At a BBB score less than 5 (e.g., functional paraplegia), all animals of both groups were killed and sent for histopathological analysis. RESULTS Group 1 had a median onset of functional hind limb paraplegia at 15 +/- 1.0 days. Group 2 had a median onset of hind limb paresis at 53 +/- 0.46 days. Hematoxylin-eosin cross-sections confirmed the presence of intramedullary 9L tumor invading the spinal cord in both groups. CONCLUSION Animals with 9L IMSCTs consistently developed hind limb paraplegia in a reliable and reproducible manner. Animals undergoing microsurgical resection of IMSCT had a significant delay in the onset of functional paraplegia compared to the untreated controls. These findings suggest that this model may mimic the behavior of IMSCTs following operative resection in humans and thus may be used to examine efficacy of new treatment options for high-grade intramedullary tumors.
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Karmakar S, Olive MF, Banik NL, Ray SK. Intracranial stereotaxic cannulation for development of orthotopic glioblastoma allograft in Sprague-Dawley rats and histoimmunopathological characterization of the brain tumor. Neurochem Res 2007; 32:2235-42. [PMID: 17701349 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-007-9450-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2007] [Accepted: 07/17/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common brain tumor that causes significant mortality annually. Limitations of the current therapeutic regimens warrant development of new techniques and treatment strategies in orthotopic animal model for better management of this devastating brain cancer. There are only a few experimental orthotopic models of glioblastoma for pre-clinical testing. In the present investigation, we successfully implanted rat C6 cells via intracranial stereotaxic cannulation in adult Sprague-Dawley rats for development and histoimmunopathological characterization of an advanced orthotopic glioblastoma allograft model, which could be useful for investigating the course of glioblastoma development as well as for testing efficacy of new therapeutic agents. The orthotopic glioblastoma allograft was generated by intracerebral injection of rat C6 cells through a guide-cannula system and after 21 post-inoculation days the brain tumor was characterized by histoimmunopathological experiments. Histological staining and immunofluorescent labelings for TERT, VEGF, Bcl-2, survivin, XIAP, and GFAP revealed the distinct characteristics of glioblastoma in C6 allograft, which could be useful as a target for treatment with emerging new therapeutic agents. Our investigation indicated the successful development of intracranial cannulated orthotopic glioblastoma allograft in adult Sprague-Dawley rats, making it as a useful animal model of glioblastoma for pre-clinical evaluation of various therapeutic strategies for the management of glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surajit Karmakar
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
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