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Abedin Y, Fife A, Samuels CA, Wright R, Murphy T, Zhang X, Alpert E, Cheung E, Zhao Q, Einstein MH, Douglas NC. Combined Treatment of Uterine Leiomyosarcoma with Gamma Secretase Inhibitor MK-0752 and Chemotherapeutic Agents Decreases Cellular Invasion and Increases Apoptosis. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2184. [PMID: 38927890 PMCID: PMC11201464 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to limited effective therapeutics for uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS), the impact of the gamma secretase inhibitor (GSI) MK-0752 with common chemotherapeutics was explored in uLMS. MTT assays were performed on two human uLMS cell lines, SK-UT-1B and SK-LMS-1, using MK-0752, docetaxel, doxorubicin, and gemcitabine, individually and in combination, to determine cell viability after treatment. Synergistic combinations were used in transwell invasion assays, cell cycle flow cytometry, proliferation assays, and RNA sequencing. In SK-UT-1B, MK-0752 was synergistic with doxorubicin and gemcitabine plus docetaxel. In SK-LMS-1, MK-0752 was synergistic with all individual agents and with the combination of gemcitabine plus docetaxel. MK-0752, gemcitabine, and docetaxel decreased invasion in SK-UT-1B 2.1-fold* and in SK-LMS-1 1.7-fold*. In SK-LMS-1, invasion decreased 1.2-fold* after treatment with MK-0752 and docetaxel and 2.2-fold* after treatment with MK-0752 and doxorubicin. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated increases in the apoptotic sub-G1 population with MK-0752 alone in SK-UT-1B (1.4-fold*) and SK-LMS-1 (2.7-fold**), along with increases with all combinations in both cell lines. The combination treatments had limited effects on proliferation, while MK-0752 alone decreased proliferation in SK-LMS-1 (0.63-fold**). Both MK-0752 alone and in combination altered gene expression and KEGG pathways. In conclusion, the combinations of MK-0752 with either doxorubicin, docetaxel, or gemcitabine plus docetaxel are potential novel therapeutic approaches for uLMS. (* p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin Abedin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Alexander Fife
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Cherie-Ann Samuels
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Rasheena Wright
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Trystn Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Xusheng Zhang
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
| | - Emily Alpert
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Emma Cheung
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Qingshi Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Mark H. Einstein
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Nataki C. Douglas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.F.); (C.-A.S.); (R.W.); (T.M.); (E.A.); (E.C.); (Q.Z.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
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Shi Q, Xue C, Zeng Y, Yuan X, Chu Q, Jiang S, Wang J, Zhang Y, Zhu D, Li L. Notch signaling pathway in cancer: from mechanistic insights to targeted therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:128. [PMID: 38797752 PMCID: PMC11128457 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01828-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling, renowned for its role in regulating cell fate, organ development, and tissue homeostasis across metazoans, is highly conserved throughout evolution. The Notch receptor and its ligands are transmembrane proteins containing epidermal growth factor-like repeat sequences, typically necessitating receptor-ligand interaction to initiate classical Notch signaling transduction. Accumulating evidence indicates that the Notch signaling pathway serves as both an oncogenic factor and a tumor suppressor in various cancer types. Dysregulation of this pathway promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis in malignancies, closely linked to cancer proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Furthermore, the Notch signaling pathway contributes to maintaining stem-like properties in cancer cells, thereby enhancing cancer invasiveness. The regulatory role of the Notch signaling pathway in cancer metabolic reprogramming and the tumor microenvironment suggests its pivotal involvement in balancing oncogenic and tumor suppressive effects. Moreover, the Notch signaling pathway is implicated in conferring chemoresistance to tumor cells. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these biological processes is crucial for developing innovative therapeutic strategies targeting Notch signaling. This review focuses on the research progress of the Notch signaling pathway in cancers, providing in-depth insights into the potential mechanisms of Notch signaling regulation in the occurrence and progression of cancer. Additionally, the review summarizes pharmaceutical clinical trials targeting Notch signaling for cancer therapy, aiming to offer new insights into therapeutic strategies for human malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingmiao Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chen Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yifan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qingfei Chu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shuwen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jinzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yaqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Danhua Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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MacLean MR, Walker OL, Arun RP, Fernando W, Marcato P. Informed by Cancer Stem Cells of Solid Tumors: Advances in Treatments Targeting Tumor-Promoting Factors and Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4102. [PMID: 38612911 PMCID: PMC11012648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074102] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation within tumors that promote cancer progression, metastasis, and recurrence due to their self-renewal capacity and resistance to conventional therapies. CSC-specific markers and signaling pathways highly active in CSCs have emerged as a promising strategy for improving patient outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic targets associated with CSCs of solid tumors across various cancer types, including key molecular markers aldehyde dehydrogenases, CD44, epithelial cellular adhesion molecule, and CD133 and signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and Sonic Hedgehog. We discuss a wide array of therapeutic modalities ranging from targeted antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and near-infrared photoimmunotherapy to advanced genetic approaches like RNA interference, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, aptamers, antisense oligonucleotides, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, CAR natural killer cells, bispecific T cell engagers, immunotoxins, drug-antibody conjugates, therapeutic peptides, and dendritic cell vaccines. This review spans developments from preclinical investigations to ongoing clinical trials, highlighting the innovative targeting strategies that have been informed by CSC-associated pathways and molecules to overcome therapeutic resistance. We aim to provide insights into the potential of these therapies to revolutionize cancer treatment, underscoring the critical need for a multi-faceted approach in the battle against cancer. This comprehensive analysis demonstrates how advances made in the CSC field have informed significant developments in novel targeted therapeutic approaches, with the ultimate goal of achieving more effective and durable responses in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya R. MacLean
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Olivia L. Walker
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Raj Pranap Arun
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Wasundara Fernando
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Paola Marcato
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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Sinha S, Hembram KC, Chatterjee S. Targeting signaling pathways in cancer stem cells: A potential approach for developing novel anti-cancer therapeutics. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 385:157-209. [PMID: 38663959 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as prime players in the intricate landscape of cancer development, progression, and resistance to traditional treatments. These unique cellular subpopulations own the remarkable capability of self-renewal and differentiation, giving rise to the diverse cellular makeup of tumors and fostering their recurrence following conventional therapies. In the quest for developing more effective cancer therapeutics, the focus has now shifted toward targeting the signaling pathways that govern CSCs behavior. This chapter underscores the significance of these signaling pathways in CSC biology and their potential as pivotal targets for the development of novel chemotherapy approaches. We delve into several key signaling pathways essential for maintaining the defining characteristics of CSCs, including the Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, JAK-STAT, NF-κB pathways, among others, shedding light on their potential crosstalk. Furthermore, we highlight the latest advancements in CSC-targeted therapies, spanning from promising preclinical models to ongoing clinical trials. A comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular aspects of CSC signaling pathways and their manipulation holds the prospective to revolutionize cancer treatment paradigms. This, in turn, could lead to more efficacious and personalized therapies with the ultimate goal of eradicating CSCs and enhancing overall patient outcomes. The exploration of CSC signaling pathways represents a key step towards a brighter future in the battle against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saptarshi Sinha
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal, India
| | | | - Subhajit Chatterjee
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.
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Amiri-Farsani M, Taheri Z, Tirbakhsh Gouran S, Chabok O, Safarpour-Dehkordi M, Kazemi Roudsari M. Cancer stem cells: Recent trends in cancer therapy. NUCLEOSIDES, NUCLEOTIDES & NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024:1-32. [PMID: 38319997 DOI: 10.1080/15257770.2024.2311789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subset of tumor cells that were first identified in blood cancers (leukemia) and are considered promising therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. These cells are the cause of many malignancies including metastasis, heterogeneity, drug resistance, and tumor recurrence. They carry out these activities through multiple transcriptional programs and signaling pathways. This review summarizes the characteristics of cancer stem cells, explains their key signaling pathways and factors, and discusses targeted therapies for cancer stem cells. Investigating these mechanisms and signaling pathways responsible for treatment failure may help identify new therapeutic pathways in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Amiri-Farsani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Zahra Taheri
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Pavia University, Pavia, Italy
| | - Somayeh Tirbakhsh Gouran
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Omid Chabok
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Maryam Safarpour-Dehkordi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mahsa Kazemi Roudsari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
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Slika H, Alimonti P, Raj D, Caraway C, Alomari S, Jackson EM, Tyler B. The Neurodevelopmental and Molecular Landscape of Medulloblastoma Subgroups: Current Targets and the Potential for Combined Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3889. [PMID: 37568705 PMCID: PMC10417410 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153889] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population. Despite the use of multiple therapeutic approaches consisting of surgical resection, craniospinal irradiation, and multiagent chemotherapy, the prognosis of many patients with medulloblastoma remains dismal. Additionally, the high doses of radiation and the chemotherapeutic agents used are associated with significant short- and long-term complications and adverse effects, most notably neurocognitive delay. Hence, there is an urgent need for the development and clinical integration of targeted treatment regimens with greater efficacy and superior safety profiles. Since the adoption of the molecular-based classification of medulloblastoma into wingless (WNT) activated, sonic hedgehog (SHH) activated, group 3, and group 4, research efforts have been directed towards unraveling the genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic profiles of each subtype. This review aims to delineate the progress that has been made in characterizing the neurodevelopmental and molecular features of each medulloblastoma subtype. It further delves into the implications that these characteristics have on the development of subgroup-specific targeted therapeutic agents. Furthermore, it highlights potential future avenues for combining multiple agents or strategies in order to obtain augmented effects and evade the development of treatment resistance in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Slika
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon;
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (D.R.); (C.C.); (S.A.); (E.M.J.)
| | - Paolo Alimonti
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Divyaansh Raj
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (D.R.); (C.C.); (S.A.); (E.M.J.)
| | - Chad Caraway
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (D.R.); (C.C.); (S.A.); (E.M.J.)
| | - Safwan Alomari
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (D.R.); (C.C.); (S.A.); (E.M.J.)
| | - Eric M. Jackson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (D.R.); (C.C.); (S.A.); (E.M.J.)
| | - Betty Tyler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (D.R.); (C.C.); (S.A.); (E.M.J.)
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Boylan J, Byers E, Kelly DF. The Glioblastoma Landscape: Hallmarks of Disease, Therapeutic Resistance, and Treatment Opportunities. MEDICAL RESEARCH ARCHIVES 2023; 11:10.18103/mra.v11i6.3994. [PMID: 38107346 PMCID: PMC10723753 DOI: 10.18103/mra.v11i6.3994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Malignant brain tumors are aggressive and difficult to treat. Glioblastoma is the most common and lethal form of primary brain tumor, often found in patients with no genetic predisposition. The median life expectancy for individuals diagnosed with this condition is 6 months to 2 years and there is no known cure. New paradigms in cancer biology implicate a small subset of tumor cells in initiating and sustaining these incurable brain tumors. Here, we discuss the heterogenous nature of glioblastoma and theories behind its capacity for therapy resistance and recurrence. Within the cancer landscape, cancer stem cells are thought to be both tumor initiators and major contributors to tumor heterogeneity and therapy evasion and such cells have been identified in glioblastoma. At the cellular level, disruptions in the delicate balance between differentiation and self-renewal spur transformation and support tumor growth. While rapidly dividing cells are more sensitive to elimination by traditional treatments, glioblastoma stem cells evade these measures through slow division and reversible exit from the cell cycle. At the molecular level, glioblastoma tumor cells exploit several signaling pathways to evade conventional therapies through improved DNA repair mechanisms and a flexible state of senescence. We examine these common evasion techniques while discussing potential molecular approaches to better target these deadly tumors. Equally important, the presented information encourages the idea of augmenting conventional treatments with novel glioblastoma stem cell-directed therapies, as eliminating these harmful progenitors holds great potential to modulate tumor recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Boylan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Center for Structural Oncology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Graduate Program, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Elizabeth Byers
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Graduate Program, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Deborah F. Kelly
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Center for Structural Oncology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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Ghafil FA, Majeed SA, Qassam H, Mardan HW, Hadi NR. NEPHROPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF GAMMA-SECRETASE INHIBITOR ON SEPSIS- INDUCED RENAL INJURY IN MOUSE MODEL OF CLP. WIADOMOSCI LEKARSKIE (WARSAW, POLAND : 1960) 2023; 76:122-130. [PMID: 36883500 DOI: 10.36740/wlek202301117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim: This study was set out to assess the potential protective impact of MK0752 (a gamma secretase inhibitor) on sepsis-induced renal injury through modulation of inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. PATIENTS AND METHODS Materials and methods: Twenty-four Swiss-albino mice aged between eight and twelve week and weighted twenty to thirty-seven grams were randomly allocated into four groups (n=6 in each group). Sham group (laparotomy without cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), sepsis group (laparotomy with CLP), vehicle-treated group (equivalent volume of DMSO before the CLP), MK0752 treated group (5 mg/kg) single daily dose for three days before the CLP. Blood samples were used to assess the serum levels of urea and creatinine. The kidneys were used to assess tissue levels of the TNF-α, IL-10, IL-6, TNFR1, VEGF, notch1, jagged1 and tissue damage by histopathological analysis. RESULTS Results: The current study shows that pretreatment with MK0752 ameliorates the renal damage by significantly reducing the proinflammatory cytokines and notch1 signaling. CONCLUSION Conclusions: Taken together, these results suggest that MK0752 could be protective against the renal injury induced by sepsis through its ameliorative impact on renal architecture and modulating cytokines and Notch1 singling pathway. Further studies regarding the role of Notch signaling pathways would be worthwhile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadha Abdulameer Ghafil
- DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS, FACULTY OF MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY OF KUFA, NAJAF, IRAQ
| | - Sahar A Majeed
- DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS, FACULTY OF MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY OF KUFA, NAJAF, IRAQ
| | - Heider Qassam
- DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS, FACULTY OF MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY OF KUFA, NAJAF, IRAQ
| | - Haider W Mardan
- MIDDLE EUPHRATES CENTER OF NEUROSCIENCES, AL-SADDER TEACHING HOSPITAL, NAJAF, IRAQ
| | - Najah R Hadi
- MIDDLE EUPHRATES CENTER OF NEUROSCIENCES, AL-SADDER TEACHING HOSPITAL, NAJAF, IRAQ
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Abedin Y, Gabrilovich S, Alpert E, Rego E, Begum S, Zhao Q, Heller D, Einstein MH, Douglas NC. Gamma Secretase Inhibitors as Potential Therapeutic Targets for Notch Signaling in Uterine Leiomyosarcoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115980. [PMID: 35682660 PMCID: PMC9180633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS) is a rare and aggressive cancer with few effective therapeutics. The Notch signaling pathway is evolutionarily conserved with oncogenic properties, but it has not been well studied in uLMS. The purpose of our study was to determine expression of Notch family genes and proteins and to investigate the therapeutic effect of γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs), indirect inhibitors of Notch signaling, in uLMS. We determined expression of Notch genes and proteins in benign uterine smooth muscle tissue, fibroids, and uLMS samples by immunostaining and in two uLMS cell lines, SK-UT-1B (uterine primary) and SK-LMS-1 (vulvar metastasis) by RT-PCR, Western blot and immunostaining. We exposed our cell lines to GSIs, DAPT and MK-0752, and measured expression of HES1, a downstream effector of Notch. Notch proteins were differentially expressed in uLMS. Expression of NOTCH3 and NOTCH4 was higher in uLMS samples than in benign uterine smooth muscle and fibroids. Expression of NOTCH4 was higher in SK-LMS-1 compared to SK-UT-1B. Exposure of SK-UT-1B and SK-LMS-1 to DAPT and MK-0752 decreased expression of HES1 and decreased uLMS cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner that was unique to each GSI. Our findings suggest that GSIs are potential therapeutics for uLMS, albeit with limited efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin Abedin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (S.G.); (E.A.); (E.R.); (S.B.); (Q.Z.); (D.H.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Sofia Gabrilovich
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (S.G.); (E.A.); (E.R.); (S.B.); (Q.Z.); (D.H.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Emily Alpert
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (S.G.); (E.A.); (E.R.); (S.B.); (Q.Z.); (D.H.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Erica Rego
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (S.G.); (E.A.); (E.R.); (S.B.); (Q.Z.); (D.H.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Salma Begum
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (S.G.); (E.A.); (E.R.); (S.B.); (Q.Z.); (D.H.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Qingshi Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (S.G.); (E.A.); (E.R.); (S.B.); (Q.Z.); (D.H.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Debra Heller
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (S.G.); (E.A.); (E.R.); (S.B.); (Q.Z.); (D.H.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Mark H. Einstein
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (S.G.); (E.A.); (E.R.); (S.B.); (Q.Z.); (D.H.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
| | - Nataki C. Douglas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (S.G.); (E.A.); (E.R.); (S.B.); (Q.Z.); (D.H.); (M.H.E.); (N.C.D.)
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10
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Al Dahhan NZ, Cox E, Nieman BJ, Mabbott DJ. Cross-translational models of late-onset cognitive sequelae and their treatment in pediatric brain tumor survivors. Neuron 2022; 110:2215-2241. [PMID: 35523175 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric brain tumor treatments have a high success rate, but survivors are at risk of cognitive sequelae that impact long-term quality of life. We summarize recent clinical and animal model research addressing pathogenesis or evaluating candidate interventions for treatment-induced cognitive sequelae. Assayed interventions encompass a broad range of approaches, including modifications to radiotherapy, modulation of immune response, prevention of treatment-induced cell loss or promotion of cell renewal, manipulation of neuronal signaling, and lifestyle/environmental adjustments. We further emphasize the potential of neuroimaging as a key component of cross-translation to contextualize laboratory research within broader clinical findings. This cross-translational approach has the potential to accelerate discovery to improve pediatric cancer survivors' long-term quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Z Al Dahhan
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Cox
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brian J Nieman
- Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Donald J Mabbott
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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11
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Naz F, Shi M, Sajid S, Yang Z, Yu C. Cancer stem cells: a major culprit of intra-tumor heterogeneity. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:5782-5811. [PMID: 35018226 PMCID: PMC8727794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is recognized as a preeminent factor of the world's mortality. Although various modalities have been designed to cure this life-threatening ailment, a significant impediment in the effective output of cancer treatment is heterogeneity. Cancer is characterized as a heterogeneous health disorder that comprises a distinct group of transformed cells to assist anomalous proliferation of affected cells. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a leading cause of cancer heterogeneity that is continually transformed by cellular extrinsic and intrinsic factors. They intensify neoplastic cells aggressiveness by strengthening their dissemination, relapse and therapy resistance. Considering this viewpoint, in this review article we have discussed some intrinsic (transcription factors, cell signaling pathways, genetic alterations, epigenetic modifications, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and epitranscriptomics) and extrinsic factors (tumor microenvironment (TME)) that contribute to CSC heterogeneity and plasticity, which may help scientists to meddle these processes and eventually improve cancer research and management. Besides, the potential role of CSCs heterogeneity in establishing metastasis and therapy resistance has been articulated which signifies the importance of developing novel anticancer therapies to target CSCs along with targeting bulk tumor mass to achieve an effective output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiza Naz
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical TechnologyBeijing 100029, China
| | - Mengran Shi
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical TechnologyBeijing 100029, China
| | - Salvia Sajid
- Department of Biotechnology, Jinnah University for WomenKarachi 74600, Pakistan
| | - Zhao Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical TechnologyBeijing 100029, China
- College of Life Science, Key Laboratory of Protection and Utilization of Biological Resources in Tarim Basin of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Tarim UniversityAlar 843300, Xinjiang, China
| | - Changyuan Yu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical TechnologyBeijing 100029, China
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12
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Makita Y, Saito S, Tsuchiya A, Ishibashi M, Arai MA. Identification of 1β,2α-epoxytagitinin C as a Notch inhibitor, oxidative stress mechanism and its anti-leukemia activity. J Nat Med 2021; 76:234-243. [PMID: 34779991 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-021-01584-0] [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: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Notch signaling plays crucial roles in cell differentiation and proliferation, but aberrant activation of this signaling results in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Notch signaling is thus a promising drug target for oncotherapy, and the development of Notch signaling inhibitors is eagerly awaited. Notch inhibitory activity-guided fractionation of a Spilanthes acmella extract led to the identification of five sesquiterpene lactones: tagitinin A (1), 1β,2α-epoxytagitinin C (2), tagitinin C (3), orizabin (4), and 2α-hydroxytirotundin (5). 1β,2α-Epoxytagitinin C (2) exhibited Notch signaling inhibition, with an IC50 of 25.6 μM, and was further evaluated for its activity against HPB-ALL, a Notch-activated leukemia cell line. Compound 2 showed potent cytotoxicity against HPB-ALL (IC50 1.7 μM) and arrested the cell cycle at the G2/M phase, but did not induce apoptotic cell death. Notch inhibitory mechanism analysis suggested that compound 2 transcriptionally suppresses Notch1 mRNA. In addition, we found that oxidative stress induction is critical for Notch signaling inhibition and the cytotoxicity of compound 2. This is the first mechanism of small molecule Notch inhibition. Our results demonstrate that 1β,2α-epoxytagitinin C (2) is a potential anti-leukemia agent and further investigation of this compound is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Makita
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1, Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan.,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8675, Japan
| | - Shun Saito
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1, Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Anna Tsuchiya
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8675, Japan
| | - Masami Ishibashi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8675, Japan
| | - Midori A Arai
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1, Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan.
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13
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Seervai RNH, Cho WC, Chu EY, Marques-Piubelli ML, Ledesma DA, Richards K, Heberton MM, Nelson KC, Nagarajan P, Torres-Cabala CA, Prieto VG, Curry JL. Diverse landscape of dermatologic toxicities from small-molecule inhibitor cancer therapy. J Cutan Pathol 2021; 49:61-81. [PMID: 34622477 DOI: 10.1111/cup.14145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advances in molecular biology and genetics have contributed to breakthrough treatments directed at specific pathways associated with the development of cancer. Small-molecule inhibitors (Nibs) aimed at a variety of cellular pathways have been efficacious; however, they are associated with significant dermatologic toxicities. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive review of dermatologic toxicities associated with Nibs categorized into the following five groups: (a) mitogen-activated protein kinase; (b) growth factor/multi-tyrosine kinase; (c) cell division/DNA repair; (d) signaling associated with myeloproliferative neoplasms; and (e) other signaling pathways. Prospective phase I, II, or III clinical trials, retrospective literature reviews, systematic reviews/meta-analyses, and case reviews/reports were included for analysis. RESULTS Dermatologic toxicities reviewed were associated with every class of Nibs and ranged from mild to severe or life-threatening adverse skin reactions. Inflammatory reactions manifesting as maculopapular, papulopustular/acneiform, and eczematous lesions were frequent types of dermatologic toxicities seen with Nibs. Squamous cell carcinoma with keratoacanthoma-like features was associated with a subset of Nibs. Substantial overlap in dermatologic toxicities was found between Nibs. CONCLUSIONS Dermatologic toxicities from Nibs are diverse and may overlap between classes of Nibs. Recognition of the various types of toxicities from Nibs is critical for patient care in the era of "oncodermatology/dermatopathology."
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Affiliation(s)
- Riyad N H Seervai
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Woo Cheal Cho
- Department of Pathology, Section of Dermatopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Emily Y Chu
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mario L Marques-Piubelli
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Debora A Ledesma
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kristen Richards
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Meghan M Heberton
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kelly C Nelson
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Priyadharsini Nagarajan
- Department of Pathology, Section of Dermatopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Carlos A Torres-Cabala
- Department of Pathology, Section of Dermatopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Victor G Prieto
- Department of Pathology, Section of Dermatopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jonathan L Curry
- Department of Pathology, Section of Dermatopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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14
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Paul MR, Zage PE. Overview and recent advances in the targeting of medulloblastoma cancer stem cells. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2021; 21:957-974. [PMID: 34047251 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2021.1932472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Medulloblastoma, an embryonal small round blue cell tumor primarily arising in the posterior fossa, is the most common malignancy of the central nervous system in children and requires intensive multi-modality therapy for cure. Overall 5-year survival is approximately 75% in children with primary disease, but outcomes for relapsed disease are very poor. Recent advances have identified molecular subgroups with excellent prognosis, with 5-year overall survival rates >90%, and subgroups with very poor prognosis with overall survival rates <50%. Molecular subtyping has allowed for more sophisticated risk stratification of patients, but new treatments for the highest risk patients have not yet improved outcomes. Targeting cancer stem cells may improve outcomes, and several candidate targets and novel drugs are under investigation.Areas covered: We discuss medulloblastoma epidemiology, biology, treatment modalities, risk stratification, and molecular subgroup analysis, links between subgroup and developmental biology, cancer stem cell biology in medulloblastoma including previously described cancer stem cell markers and proposed targeted treatments in the current literature.Expert opinion: The understanding of cancer stem cells in medulloblastoma will advance therapies targeting the most treatment-resistant cells within the tumor and therefore reduce the incidence of treatment refractory and relapsed disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Rose Paul
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA (M.R.P., P.E.Z.); Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Peter E Zage
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA (M.R.P., P.E.Z.); Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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15
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Raghav PK, Mann Z. Cancer stem cells targets and combined therapies to prevent cancer recurrence. Life Sci 2021; 277:119465. [PMID: 33831426 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) control the dynamics of tumorigenesis by self-renewal ability and differentiation potential. These properties contribute towards tumor malignancy, metastasis, cellular heterogeneity, and immune escape, which are regulated by multiple signaling pathways. The CSCs are chemoresistant and cause cancer recurrence, generally recognized as a small side-population that eventually leads to tumor relapse. Despite many treatment options available, none can be considered entirely efficient due to a lack of specificity and dose limitation. This review primarily highlights the processes involved in CSCs development and maintenance. Secondly, the current effective therapies based on stem cells, cell-free therapies that involve exosomes and miRNAs, and photodynamic therapy have been discussed. Also, the inhibitors that specifically target various signaling pathways, which can be used in combination to control CSCs kinetics have been highlighted. Conclusively, this comprehensive review is a detailed study of recently developed novel treatment strategies that will facilitate in coming up with better-targeted approaches against CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zoya Mann
- Independent Researcher, New Delhi, India
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16
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McCaw TR, Inga E, Chen H, Jaskula‐Sztul R, Dudeja V, Bibb JA, Ren B, Rose JB. Gamma Secretase Inhibitors in Cancer: A Current Perspective on Clinical Performance. Oncologist 2021; 26:e608-e621. [PMID: 33284507 PMCID: PMC8018325 DOI: 10.1002/onco.13627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Gamma secretase inhibitors (GSIs), initially developed as Alzheimer's therapies, have been repurposed as anticancer agents given their inhibition of Notch receptor cleavage. The success of GSIs in preclinical models has been ascribed to induction of cancer stem-like cell differentiation and apoptosis, while also impairing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and sensitizing cells to traditional chemoradiotherapies. The promise of these agents has yet to be realized in the clinic, however, as GSIs have failed to demonstrate clinical benefit in most solid tumors with the notable exceptions of CNS malignancies and desmoid tumors. Disappointing clinical performance to date reflects important questions that remain to be answered. For example, what is the net impact of these agents on antitumor immune responses, and will they require concurrent targeting of tumor-intrinsic compensatory pathways? Addressing these limitations in our current understanding of GSI mechanisms will undoubtedly facilitate their rational incorporation into combinatorial strategies and provide a valuable tool with which to combat Notch-dependent cancers. In the present review, we provide a current understanding of GSI mechanisms, discuss clinical performance to date, and suggest areas for future investigation that might maximize the utility of these agents. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The performance of gamma secretase inhibitors (GSIs) in clinical trials generally has not reflected their encouraging performance in preclinical studies. This review provides a current perspective on the clinical performance of GSIs across various solid tumor types alongside putative mechanisms of antitumor activity. Through exploration of outstanding gaps in knowledge as well as reasons for success in certain cancer types, the authors identify areas for future investigation that will likely enable incorporation of GSIs into rational combinatorial strategies for superior tumor control and patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler R. McCaw
- Divisions of Surgical Oncology, The University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - Evelyn Inga
- Divisions of Surgical Oncology, The University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - Herbert Chen
- Breast & Endocrine Surgery, The University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - Renata Jaskula‐Sztul
- Breast & Endocrine Surgery, The University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - Vikas Dudeja
- Divisions of Surgical Oncology, The University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - James A. Bibb
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, The University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - Bin Ren
- Vascular Surgery & Endovascular Therapy, Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - J. Bart Rose
- Divisions of Surgical Oncology, The University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
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17
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Isolation of nocobactin NAs as Notch signal inhibitors from Nocardia farcinica, a possibility of invasive evolution. J Antibiot (Tokyo) 2020; 74:255-259. [PMID: 33318622 DOI: 10.1038/s41429-020-00393-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Notch signaling inhibitors with the potential of immune suppressor production by pathogenic bacteria for easy host infection were searched from extracts of Nocardia sp. Nocobactin NA-a (compound 1) and nocobactin NA-b (compound 2), which have been suggested as pathogenesis factors, were isolated from N. farcinica IFM 11523 isolated from the sputum of a Japanese patient with chronic bronchitis. Compounds 1 and 2 showed Notch inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 12.4 and 17.6 μM, respectively. Compound 1 and 2 decreased of Notch1 protein, Notch intracellular domain, and hairy and enhancer of split 1, which is a Notch signaling target protein. In addition, compounds 1 and 2 showed cytotoxicity against mouse macrophage-like cell line RAW264.7 with IC50 values of 18.9 and 21.1 μM, respectively. These results suggested that the Notch inhibitors production by pathogenic bacteria may increase pathogen infectivity.
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18
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Jiang J, Zhang J, Fu K, Zhang T. Function and mechanism exploration of zinc finger protein 64 in lung adenocarcinoma cell growth and metastasis. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2020; 41:457-465. [PMID: 33054540 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2020.1825490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper aims to discover the effect of Zinc Finger Protein 64 (ZFP64) and Notch pathway on lung adenocarcinoma cell. ZFP64 expression in cancer tissue and overall survival analysis was identified by TCGA-LUAD. ZFP64 expressions in tumor tissue (n = 30) and adjacent tissue (n = 30), and in human nontumorigenic bronchial epithelial cell line BEAS-2B and human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines (H23, H1975, H2228, and H2085) were measured via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). H1975 cell viability, cell cycle progression, and migration after transfection or under Notch inhibitor MK-0752 treatment were detected through MTT assay, flow cytometer, and wound healing assay, respectively. Expressions of notch intracellular domain (NICD) and hairy and enhancer of split 1 (Hes-1) in H1975 cell were determined by western blot. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins (E-Cadherin and Vimentin) expressions were identified through qRT-PCR and western blot. ZFP64 expression in lung adenocarcinoma tissue and lung adenocarcinoma cell lines was higher and related to poor prognosis. After transfection, H1975 cell viability, migration, and expressions of Vimentin, NICD and Hes-1 were upregulated yet cell percentage in G0/G1 phase, E-cadherin expression was downregulated by overexpressed ZFP64. However, Notch inhibitor MK-0752 inhibited the effects of overexpressed ZFP64 on H1975 cell viability, cell cycle, migration, EMT progress, and Notch pathway activation. Overexpressed ZFP64 promoted the development of lung adenocarcinoma cells by activating Notch pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiuyang Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Kai Fu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Tiewa Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
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19
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Isolation and evaluation of cardenolides from Lansium domesticum as Notch inhibitors. J Nat Med 2020; 74:758-766. [PMID: 32648094 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-020-01432-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Since Notch signaling plays important roles in cell proliferation and differentiation, aberrant activation of this signaling contributes to cancer progression. In neural stem cells, Notch signaling inhibits differentiation by activating HES1 expression. Therefore, Notch signaling inhibitors may be candidates for new anticancer drugs or have applications in neural regenerative medicine. In this study, six naturally occurring Notch inhibitors were isolated from the methanol (MeOH) extract of Lansium domesticum using our novel cell-based assay. Hongherin (2), a cardiac glycoside, demonstrated potent Notch inhibitory activity with an IC50 of 0.62 μM and was found to be cytotoxic in HPB-ALL human T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. Hongherin (2) also induced the differentiation of C17.2 neural stem cells to neurons, causing a 65% increase in differentiation compared to the control. Mechanistically, hongherin (2) reduced the amount of Notch1 (full length) and mastermind-like protein (MAML). This indicates that hongherin (2) inhibits Notch signaling through a dual mechanism involving the reduction of both Notch1 and MAML protein levels.
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20
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Yang L, Shi P, Zhao G, Xu J, Peng W, Zhang J, Zhang G, Wang X, Dong Z, Chen F, Cui H. Targeting cancer stem cell pathways for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:8. [PMID: 32296030 PMCID: PMC7005297 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-0110-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 931] [Impact Index Per Article: 232.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since cancer stem cells (CSCs) were first identified in leukemia in 1994, they have been considered promising therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. These cells have self-renewal capacity and differentiation potential and contribute to multiple tumor malignancies, such as recurrence, metastasis, heterogeneity, multidrug resistance, and radiation resistance. The biological activities of CSCs are regulated by several pluripotent transcription factors, such as OCT4, Sox2, Nanog, KLF4, and MYC. In addition, many intracellular signaling pathways, such as Wnt, NF-κB (nuclear factor-κB), Notch, Hedgehog, JAK-STAT (Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription), PI3K/AKT/mTOR (phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin), TGF (transforming growth factor)/SMAD, and PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor), as well as extracellular factors, such as vascular niches, hypoxia, tumor-associated macrophages, cancer-associated fibroblasts, cancer-associated mesenchymal stem cells, extracellular matrix, and exosomes, have been shown to be very important regulators of CSCs. Molecules, vaccines, antibodies, and CAR-T (chimeric antigen receptor T cell) cells have been developed to specifically target CSCs, and some of these factors are already undergoing clinical trials. This review summarizes the characterization and identification of CSCs, depicts major factors and pathways that regulate CSC development, and discusses potential targeted therapy for CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Pengfei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Gaichao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Jie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Wen Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiayi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Guanghui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaowen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhen Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China.
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China.
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21
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Notch pathway in ependymoma RELA-fused subgroup: upregulation and association with cancer stem cells markers expression. Cancer Gene Ther 2019; 27:509-512. [PMID: 31308481 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-019-0122-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
RELA-fused supratentorial (ST) ependymoma (EPN) is an aggressive subgroup with poor prognosis. Considering the putative role of Notch signaling in the maintenance of the cancer stem cells (CSC) phenotype in RELA-fused EPN, we investigated the expression of Notch pathway and its target genes in this subgroup. We also evaluated the effects of two Notch inhibitors (DAPT and RO4929097) on cell proliferation, apoptosis, colony formation, and CSCs markers gene expression on EPN cell line of the RELA-fused subgroup (BXD-1425). In addition, in silico signatures of the Notch genes and CSCs markers were analyzed on a large clinical dataset from GSE64415 study. We found that among the ST-EPN subgroups the Notch signaling (NOTCH1, JAG1, JAG2, and HES4) is specifically activated in the ST-EPN-RELA. Furthermore, treatment of the RELA-fused EPN cell line with the Notch inhibitors impaired the Notch signaling expression and revealed that Notch axis is not essential for cell proliferation and survival in this setting. NOTCH1 expression in ST-EPN was correlated with the CSCs markers VEGFA and L1CAM overexpression and JAG1 expression was correlated with the CCND1 and CDK6 overexpression. In addition, in vitro treatment with Notch inhibitors induced downregulation of CSCs markers. These findings indicate that Notch signaling can be involved in the ST-EPN-RELA CSCs maintenance by modulating the expression of genes responsible for cell phenotype and cell fate.
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Park AK, Lee JY, Cheong H, Ramaswamy V, Park SH, Kool M, Phi JH, Choi SA, Cavalli F, Taylor MD, Kim SK. Subgroup-specific prognostic signaling and metabolic pathways in pediatric medulloblastoma. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:571. [PMID: 31185958 PMCID: PMC6560914 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5742-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Using a pathway-focused approach, we aimed to provide a subgroup-specific basis for finding novel therapeutic strategies and further refinement of the risk stratification in pediatric medulloblastoma. Method Based on genome-wide Cox regression and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis, we investigated prognosis-related signaling pathways and core genes in pediatric medulloblastoma subgroups using 530 patient data from Medulloblastoma Advanced Genomic International Consortium (MAGIC) project. We further examined the relationship between expression of the prognostic core genes and frequent chromosome aberrations using broad range copy number change data. Results In SHH subgroup, relatively high expression of the core genes involved in p53, PLK1, FOXM1, and Aurora B signaling pathways are associated with poor prognosis, and their average expression synergistically increases with co-occurrence of losses of 17p, 14q, or 10q, or gain of 17q. In Group 3, in addition to high MYC expression, relatively elevated expression of PDGFRA, IGF1R, and FGF2 and their downstream genes in PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK pathways are related to poor survival outcome, and their average expression is increased with the presence of isochromosome 17q [i(17q)] and synergistically down-regulated with simultaneous losses of 16p, 8q, or 4q. In Group 4, up-regulation of the genes encoding various immune receptors and those involved in NOTCH, NF-κB, PI3K/AKT, or RHOA signaling pathways are associated with worse prognosis. Additionally, the expressions of Notch genes correlate with those of the prognostic immune receptors. Besides the Group 4 patients with previously known prognostic aberration, loss of chromosome 11, those with loss of 8q but without i(17q) show excellent survival outcomes and low average expression of the prognostic core genes whereas those harboring 10q loss, 1q gain, or 12q gain accompanied by i(17q) show bad outcomes. Finally, several metabolic pathways known to be reprogrammed in cancer cells are detected as prognostic pathways including glutamate metabolism in SHH subgroup, pentose phosphate pathway and TCA cycle in Group 3, and folate-mediated one carbon-metabolism in Group 4. Conclusions The results underscore several subgroup-specific pathways for potential therapeutic interventions: SHH-GLI-FOXM1 pathway in SHH subgroup, receptor tyrosine kinases and their downstream pathways in Group 3, and immune and inflammatory pathways in Group 4. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-019-5742-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ae Kyung Park
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Korea
| | - Ji Yeoun Lee
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Anatomy, Neural Development and Anomaly Lab, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Heesun Cheong
- Division of Cancer Biology, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Vijay Ramaswamy
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sung-Hye Park
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Marcel Kool
- Division of Paediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ji Hoon Phi
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Ah Choi
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Florence Cavalli
- Programme in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michael D Taylor
- Programme in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada. .,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Seung-Ki Kim
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. .,Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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23
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Cho ES, Kang HE, Kim NH, Yook JI. Therapeutic implications of cancer epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Arch Pharm Res 2019; 42:14-24. [PMID: 30649699 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-018-01108-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) comprises an essential biological process involving cancer progression as well as initiation. While the EMT has been regarded as a phenotypic conversion from epithelial to mesenchymal cells, recent evidence indicates that it plays a critical role in stemness, metabolic reprogramming, immune evasion and therapeutic resistance of cancer cells. Interestingly, several transcriptional repressors including Snail (SNAI1), Slug (SNAI2) and the ZEB family constitute key players for EMT in cancer as well as in the developmental process. Note that the dynamic conversion between EMT and epithelial reversion (mesenchymal-epithelial transition, MET) occurs through variable intermediate-hybrid states rather than being a binary process. Given the close connection between oncogenic signaling and EMT repressors, the EMT has emerged as a therapeutic target or goal (in terms of MET reversion) in cancer therapy. Here we review the critical role of EMT in therapeutic resistance and the importance of EMT as a therapeutic target for human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunae Sandra Cho
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Cancer Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Eun Kang
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Cancer Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Hee Kim
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Cancer Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jong In Yook
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Cancer Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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24
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Khatua S, Song A, Citla Sridhar D, Mack SC. Childhood Medulloblastoma: Current Therapies, Emerging Molecular Landscape and Newer Therapeutic Insights. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:1045-1058. [PMID: 29189165 PMCID: PMC6120114 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x15666171129111324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor in children, currently treated uniformly based on histopathology and clinico-radiological risk stratification leading to unpredictable relapses and therapeutic failures. Identification of molecular subgroups have thrown light on the reasons for these and now reveals clues to profile molecularly based personalized therapy against these tumors. Methods: Research and online contents were evaluated for pediatric medulloblastoma which included latest information on the molecular subgroups and their clinical relevance and update on efforts to translate them into clinics. Results: Scientific endeavors over the last decade have clearly identified four molecular variants (WNT, SHH, Group 3, and Group 4) and their demographic, genomic, and epigenetic profile. Latest revelations include significant heterogeneity within these subgroups and 12 different subtypes of MB are now identified with disparate outcomes and biology. These findings have important implications for stratification and profiling future clinical trials against these formidable tumors. Conclusion: With the continued outpouring of genomic/epigenomic data of these molecular subgroups and evolution of further subtypes in each subgroup, the challenge lies in comprehensive evaluation of these informations. Current and future endeavors are now needed to profile personalized therapy for each child based on the molecular risk stratification of medulloblastoma, with a hope to improve survival outcome and reduce relapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumen Khatua
- Department of Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Pediatrics Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Anne Song
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Pediatrics Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Divyaswathi Citla Sridhar
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Pediatrics Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Stephen C Mack
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Pediatrics Houston, Texas, United States
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25
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Embryonal Tumors of the Central Nervous System in Children: The Era of Targeted Therapeutics. Bioengineering (Basel) 2018; 5:bioengineering5040078. [PMID: 30249036 PMCID: PMC6315657 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering5040078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryonal tumors (ET) of the central nervous system (CNS) in children encompass a wide clinical spectrum of aggressive malignancies. Until recently, the overlapping morphological features of these lesions posed a diagnostic challenge and undermined discovery of optimal treatment strategies. However, with the advances in genomic technology and the outpouring of biological data over the last decade, clear insights into the molecular heterogeneity of these tumors are now well delineated. The major subtypes of ETs of the CNS in children include medulloblastoma, atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT), and embryonal tumors with multilayered rosettes (ETMR), which are now biologically and clinically characterized as different entities. These important developments have paved the way for treatments guided by risk stratification as well as novel targeted therapies in efforts to improve survival and reduce treatment burden.
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26
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The Notch inhibitor cowanin accelerates nicastrin degradation. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5376. [PMID: 29599482 PMCID: PMC5876388 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-23698-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Notch signaling contributes to the pathogenesis of several different types of cancer, and Notch pathway inhibitors may have significant therapeutic potential. Using a unique cell-based assay system, we isolated twelve compounds, including one new natural product from Garcinia speciosa, that inhibit the Notch signaling pathway. HES1 and HES5 are target genes of the Notch cascade, and compound 2, referred to as cowanin, decreased the protein levels of HES1 and HES5 in assay cells. Furthermore, cowanin (2) showed potent cytotoxicity against human leukemic HPB-ALL cells. The Notch signaling inhibitory activity of cowanin (2) is linked to the increased degradation of nicastrin, which is one of the components of the γ-secretase complex. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of a compound with Notch pathway inhibitory activity mediated by nicastrin degradation.
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27
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Venkatesh V, Nataraj R, Thangaraj GS, Karthikeyan M, Gnanasekaran A, Kaginelli SB, Kuppanna G, Kallappa CG, Basalingappa KM. Targeting Notch signalling pathway of cancer stem cells. Stem Cell Investig 2018; 5:5. [PMID: 29682512 DOI: 10.21037/sci.2018.02.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been defined as cells within tumor that possess the capacity to self-renew and to cause the heterogeneous lineages of cancer cells that comprise the tumor. CSCs have been increasingly identified in blood cancer, prostate, ovarian, lung, melanoma, pancreatic, colon, brain and many more malignancies. CSCs have slow growth rate and are resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy that lead to the failure of traditional current therapy. Eradicating the CSCs and recurrence, is promising aspect for the cure of cancer. The CSCs like any other stem cells activate the signal transduction pathways that involve the development and tissue homeostasis, which include Notch signaling pathway. The new treatment targets these pathway that control stem-cell replication, survival and differentiation that are under development. Notch inhibitors either single or in combination with chemotherapy drugs have been developed to treat cancer and its recurrence. This approach of targeting signaling pathway of CSCs represents a promising future direction for the therapeutic strategy to cure cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vandana Venkatesh
- Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, (Deemed to be University), Mysuru, India
| | - Raghu Nataraj
- Division of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, (Deemed to be University), Mysuru, India
| | - Gopenath S Thangaraj
- Division of Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, (Deemed to be University), Mysuru, India
| | - Murugesan Karthikeyan
- Senior Lecturer, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University Perak, Malaysia
| | - Ashok Gnanasekaran
- Senior Lecturer, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University Perak, Malaysia
| | - Shanmukhappa B Kaginelli
- Division of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, (Deemed to be University), Mysuru, India
| | - Gobianand Kuppanna
- Department of Microbiology, Vivekanandha College of Arts and Sciences for Women, Elayampalayam, Tiruchengode. Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Kanthesh M Basalingappa
- Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, (Deemed to be University), Mysuru, India
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28
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Kumar D, Ganeshpurkar A, Kumar D, Modi G, Gupta SK, Singh SK. Secretase inhibitors for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: Long road ahead. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 148:436-452. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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29
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Dobranowski P, Ban F, Contreras-Sanz A, Cherkasov A, Black PC. Perspectives on the discovery of NOTCH2-specific inhibitors. Chem Biol Drug Des 2017; 91:691-706. [PMID: 29078041 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.13132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The Notch pathway is a cell-cell communication system where membrane-bound ligands interact with the extracellular region of Notch receptors to induce intracellular, downstream effects on gene expression. Aberrant Notch signaling promotes tumorigenesis, and the Notch pathway has tremendous potential for novel targeting strategies in cancer treatment. While γ-secretase inhibitors as Notch-inhibiting agents are already promising in clinical trials, they are highly non-specific with adverse side-effects. One of the underlying challenges is that two of the four known human Notch paralogs, NOTCH1 and 2, share very high structural similarity but play opposing roles in some tumorigenesis pathways. This perspective explores the feasibility of developing Notch-specific small molecule inhibitors targeting the anti-NOTCH2 antibody-binding epitopes or the "S2-Leu-plug-binding site" using a computer-aided drug discovery approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Dobranowski
- Department of Pediatrics, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Fuqiang Ban
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alberto Contreras-Sanz
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Artem Cherkasov
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Peter C Black
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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30
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Bautista F, Fioravantti V, de Rojas T, Carceller F, Madero L, Lassaletta A, Moreno L. Medulloblastoma in children and adolescents: a systematic review of contemporary phase I and II clinical trials and biology update. Cancer Med 2017; 6:2606-2624. [PMID: 28980418 PMCID: PMC5673921 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.1171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Survival rates for patients with medulloblastoma have improved in the last decades but for those who relapse outcome is dismal and new approaches are needed. Emerging drugs have been tested in the last two decades within the context of phase I/II trials. In parallel, advances in genetic profiling have permitted to identify key molecular alterations for which new strategies are being developed. We performed a systematic review focused on the design and outcome of early-phase trials evaluating new agents in patients with relapsed medulloblastoma. PubMed, clinicaltrials.gov, and references from selected studies were screened to identify phase I/II studies with reported results between 2000 and 2015 including patients with medulloblastoma aged <18 years. A total of 718 studies were reviewed and 78 satisfied eligibility criteria. Of those, 69% were phase I; 31% phase II. Half evaluated conventional chemotherapeutics and 35% targeted agents. Overall, 662 patients with medulloblastoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumors were included. The study designs and the response assessments were heterogeneous, limiting the comparisons among trials and the correct identification of active drugs. Median (range) objective response rate (ORR) for patients with medulloblastoma in phase I/II studies was 0% (0-100) and 6.5% (0-50), respectively. Temozolomide containing regimens had a median ORR of 16.5% (0-100). Smoothened inhibitors trials had a median ORR of 8% (3-8). Novel drugs have shown limited activity against relapsed medulloblastoma. Temozolomide might serve as backbone for new combinations. Novel and more homogenous trial designs might facilitate the development of new drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Bautista
- CNIO‐HNJ Clinical Research UnitPediatric Oncology, Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant DepartmentHospital Infantil Universitario Niño JesúsAvenida Menéndez Pelayo, 6528009MadridSpain
| | - Victoria Fioravantti
- CNIO‐HNJ Clinical Research UnitPediatric Oncology, Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant DepartmentHospital Infantil Universitario Niño JesúsAvenida Menéndez Pelayo, 6528009MadridSpain
| | - Teresa de Rojas
- CNIO‐HNJ Clinical Research UnitPediatric Oncology, Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant DepartmentHospital Infantil Universitario Niño JesúsAvenida Menéndez Pelayo, 6528009MadridSpain
| | - Fernando Carceller
- Pediatric and Adolescent Drug Development, Children and Young People's UnitThe Royal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Division of Clinical Studies and Cancer TherapeuticsThe Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Luis Madero
- CNIO‐HNJ Clinical Research UnitPediatric Oncology, Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant DepartmentHospital Infantil Universitario Niño JesúsAvenida Menéndez Pelayo, 6528009MadridSpain
| | - Alvaro Lassaletta
- CNIO‐HNJ Clinical Research UnitPediatric Oncology, Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant DepartmentHospital Infantil Universitario Niño JesúsAvenida Menéndez Pelayo, 6528009MadridSpain
| | - Lucas Moreno
- CNIO‐HNJ Clinical Research UnitPediatric Oncology, Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant DepartmentHospital Infantil Universitario Niño JesúsAvenida Menéndez Pelayo, 6528009MadridSpain
- Instituto de Investigación La PrincesaMadridSpain
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Yoneyama T, Arai MA, Akamine R, Koryudzu K, Tsuchiya A, Sadhu SK, Ahmed F, Itoh M, Okamoto R, Ishibashi M. Notch Inhibitors from Calotropis gigantea That Induce Neuronal Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2017; 80:2453-2461. [PMID: 28817274 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.7b00282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease occur due to loss of the structure and function of neurons. For the potential treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, accelerators of neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) have been focused on and a cell-based assay system for measuring Notch signaling pathway activity was constructed. Using this assay system, eight compounds isolated from Calotropis gigantea were identified as inhibitors of the Notch signaling pathway. Hes1 and Hes5 are target genes of the Notch signaling pathway, and compound 1, called uscharin, decreased the protein levels of Hes1 and Hes5 in assay cells and MEB5 cells (mouse NSCs). Furthermore, uscharin (1) enhanced the differentiation of MEB5 cells into neurons. The mechanism of uscharin (1) for the Notch signaling inhibitory activity would be acceleration of the degradation of the Notch intracellular domain (NICD) in the MEB5 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuro Yoneyama
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University , 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Midori A Arai
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University , 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Ryuta Akamine
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University , 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Kazune Koryudzu
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University , 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Anna Tsuchiya
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University , 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Samir K Sadhu
- Pharmacy Discipline, Khulna University , Khulna 9208, Bangladesh
| | - Firoj Ahmed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Dhaka , Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Motoyuki Itoh
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University , 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Okamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University , 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan
| | - Masami Ishibashi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University , 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
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Liu Z, Sanders AJ, Liang G, Song E, Jiang WG, Gong C. Hey Factors at the Crossroad of Tumorigenesis and Clinical Therapeutic Modulation of Hey for Anticancer Treatment. Mol Cancer Ther 2017; 16:775-786. [PMID: 28468863 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Revised: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetic and Gene Regulation, Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Andrew J Sanders
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Gehao Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetic and Gene Regulation, Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Erwei Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetic and Gene Regulation, Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen G Jiang
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom.
| | - Chang Gong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetic and Gene Regulation, Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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33
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Kumar R, Juillerat-Jeanneret L, Golshayan D. Notch Antagonists: Potential Modulators of Cancer and Inflammatory Diseases. J Med Chem 2016; 59:7719-37. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Kumar
- Transplantation
Center and Transplantation Immunopathology Laboratory, Department
of Medicine and ‡University Institute of Pathology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lucienne Juillerat-Jeanneret
- Transplantation
Center and Transplantation Immunopathology Laboratory, Department
of Medicine and ‡University Institute of Pathology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dela Golshayan
- Transplantation
Center and Transplantation Immunopathology Laboratory, Department
of Medicine and ‡University Institute of Pathology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
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34
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Chen X, Gong L, Ou R, Zheng Z, Chen J, Xie F, Huang X, Qiu J, Zhang W, Jiang Q, Yang Y, Zhu H, Shi Z, Yan X. Sequential combination therapy of ovarian cancer with cisplatin and γ-secretase inhibitor MK-0752. Gynecol Oncol 2016; 140:537-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2015.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Revised: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Disrupting NOTCH Slows Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma Growth, Enhances Radiation Sensitivity, and Shows Combinatorial Efficacy With Bromodomain Inhibition. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2015; 74:778-90. [PMID: 26115193 DOI: 10.1097/nen.0000000000000216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
NOTCH regulates stem cells during normal development and stemlike cells in cancer, but the roles of NOTCH in the lethal pediatric brain tumor diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) remain unknown. Because DIPGs express stem cell factors such as SOX2 and MYCN, we hypothesized that NOTCH activity would be critical for DIPG growth. We determined that primary DIPGs expressed high levels of NOTCH receptors, ligands, and downstream effectors. Treatment of the DIPG cell lines JHH-DIPG1 and SF7761 with the γ-secretase inhibitor MRK003 suppressed the level of the NOTCH effectors HES1, HES4, and HES5; inhibited DIPG growth by 75%; and caused a 3-fold induction of apoptosis. Short hairpin RNAs targeting the canonical NOTCH pathway caused similar effects. Pretreatment of DIPG cells with MRK003 suppressed clonogenic growth by more than 90% and enhanced the efficacy of radiation therapy. The high level of MYCN in DIPG led us to test sequential therapy with the bromodomain inhibitor JQ1 and MRK003, and we found that JQ1 and MRK003 inhibited DIPG growth and induced apoptosis. Together, these results suggest that dual targeting of NOTCH and MYCN in DIPG may be an effective therapeutic strategy in DIPG and that adding a γ-secretase inhibitor during radiation therapy may be efficacious initially or during reirradiation.
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Khan IN, Al-Karim S, Bora RS, Chaudhary AG, Saini KS. Cancer stem cells: a challenging paradigm for designing targeted drug therapies. Drug Discov Today 2015; 20:1205-16. [PMID: 26143148 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2015.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite earlier controversies about their role and existence within tumors, cancer stem cells (CSCs) are now emerging as a plausible target for new drug discovery. Research and development (R&D) efforts are being directed against key gene(s) driving initiation, growth, and metastatic pathways in CSCs and the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the niche signals that enable these pluripotent CSCs to evade radio- and chemotherapy, and to travel to secondary tissues remain enigmatic. Small-molecule drugs, biologics, miRNA, RNA interference (RNAi), and vaccines, among others, are under active investigation. Here, we examine the feasibility of leveraging current knowhow of the molecular biology of CSCs and their cellular milieu to design futuristic, targeted drugs with potentially lower toxicity that can override the multiple drug-resistance issues currently observed with existing therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishaq N Khan
- Embryonic & Cancer Stem Cell Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Centre of Innovation for Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Al-Karim
- Embryonic & Cancer Stem Cell Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Embryonic Stem Cell Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Roop S Bora
- Embryonic & Cancer Stem Cell Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Biotechnology Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; School of Biotechnology, Eternal University, Baru Sahib 173 101, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Adeel G Chaudhary
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Centre of Innovation for Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kulvinder S Saini
- Embryonic & Cancer Stem Cell Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Biotechnology Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; School of Biotechnology, Eternal University, Baru Sahib 173 101, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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