1
|
Kresbach C, Holst L, Schoof M, Leven T, Göbel C, Neyazi S, Tischendorf J, Loose C, Wrzeszcz A, Yorgan T, Rutkowski S, Schüller U. Intraventricular SHH inhibition proves efficient in SHH medulloblastoma mouse model and prevents systemic side effects. Neuro Oncol 2024; 26:609-622. [PMID: 37767814 PMCID: PMC10995518 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noad191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor in children and requires intensive multimodal therapy. Long-term survival is still dissatisfying and, most importantly, survivors frequently suffer from severe treatment-associated morbidities. The sonic hedgehog pathway (SHH) in SHH MB provides a promising target for specific therapeutic agents. The small molecule Vismodegib allosterically inhibits SMO, the main upstream activator of SHH. Vismodegib has proven effective in the treatment of MB in mice and in clinical studies. However, due to irreversible premature epiphyseal growth plate fusions after systemic application to infant mice and children, its implementation to pediatric patients has been limited. Intraventricular Vismodegib application might provide a promising novel treatment strategy for pediatric medulloblastoma patients. METHODS Infant medulloblastoma-bearing Math1-cre::Ptch1Fl/Fl mice were treated with intraventricular Vismodegib in order to evaluate efficacy on tumor growth and systemic side effects. RESULTS We show that intraventricular Vismodegib treatment of Math1-cre::Ptch1Fl/Fl mice leads to complete or partial tumor remission only 2 days after completed treatment. Intraventricular treatment also significantly improved symptom-free survival in a dose-dependent manner. At the same time, intraventricular application prevented systemic side effects in the form of anatomical or histological bone deformities. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that intraventricular application of a SHH pathway inhibitor combines the advantages of a specific treatment agent with precise drug delivery and might evolve as a promising new way of targeted treatment for SHH MB patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catena Kresbach
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Center of Diagnostics, Institute of Neuropathology, Center of Diagnostics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Cancer Career Center HaTriCS4, University Medical Center Hamburg- Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lea Holst
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Schoof
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tara Leven
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Göbel
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sina Neyazi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jacqueline Tischendorf
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Loose
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Antonina Wrzeszcz
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Timur Yorgan
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Rutkowski
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schüller
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children’s Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Center of Diagnostics, Institute of Neuropathology, Center of Diagnostics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Su Z, Ho JWK, Yau RCH, Lam YL, Shek TWH, Yeung MCF, Chen H, Oreffo ROC, Cheah KSE, Cheung KSC. A single-cell atlas of conventional central chondrosarcoma reveals the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in malignant transformation. Commun Biol 2024; 7:124. [PMID: 38267611 PMCID: PMC10808239 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05790-w] [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: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The transformation of benign lesions to malignant tumours is a crucial aspect of understanding chondrosarcomas, which are malignant cartilage tumours that could develop from benign chondroid lesions. However, the process of malignant transformation for chondroid lesions remains poorly understood, and no reliable markers are available to aid clinical decision-making. To address this issue, we conducted a study analysing 11 primary cartilage tumours and controls using single-cell RNA sequencing. By creating a single-cell atlas, we were able to identify the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the malignant transformation of conventional central chondrosarcomas (CCCS). Our research revealed that lower levels of ER stress promote chondrosarcoma growth in a patient-derived xenograft mouse model, while intensive ER stress reduces primary chondrosarcoma cell viability. Furthermore, we discovered that the NF-κB pathway alleviates ER stress-induced apoptosis during chondrosarcoma progression. Our single-cell signatures and large public data support the use of key ER stress regulators, such as DNA Damage Inducible Transcript 3 (DDIT3; also known as CHOP), as malignant markers for overall patient survival. Ultimately, our study highlights the significant role that ER stress plays in the malignant transformation of cartilaginous tumours and provides a valuable resource for future diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zezhuo Su
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health Limited (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Joshua Wing Kei Ho
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health Limited (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Raymond Ching Hing Yau
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ying Lee Lam
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tony Wai Hung Shek
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Maximus Chun Fai Yeung
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hongtai Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Richard O C Oreffo
- Bone and Joint Research Group, Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 6HW, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn Song Eng Cheah
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kelvin Sin Chi Cheung
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schoof M, Godbole S, Albert TK, Dottermusch M, Walter C, Ballast A, Qin N, Olivera MB, Göbel C, Neyazi S, Holdhof D, Kresbach C, Peter LS, Epplen GD, Thaden V, Spohn M, Blattner-Johnson M, Modemann F, Mynarek M, Rutkowski S, Sill M, Varghese J, Afflerbach AK, Eckhardt A, Münter D, Verma A, Struve N, Jones DTW, Remke M, Neumann JE, Kerl K, Schüller U. Mouse models of pediatric high-grade gliomas with MYCN amplification reveal intratumoral heterogeneity and lineage signatures. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7717. [PMID: 38001143 PMCID: PMC10673884 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43564-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric high-grade gliomas of the subclass MYCN (HGG-MYCN) are highly aggressive tumors frequently carrying MYCN amplifications, TP53 mutations, or both alterations. Due to their rarity, such tumors have only recently been identified as a distinct entity, and biological as well as clinical characteristics have not been addressed specifically. To gain insights into tumorigenesis and molecular profiles of these tumors, and to ultimately suggest alternative treatment options, we generated a genetically engineered mouse model by breeding hGFAP-cre::Trp53Fl/Fl::lsl-MYCN mice. All mice developed aggressive forebrain tumors early in their lifetime that mimic human HGG-MYCN regarding histology, DNA methylation, and gene expression. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed a high intratumoral heterogeneity with neuronal and oligodendroglial lineage signatures. High-throughput drug screening using both mouse and human tumor cells finally indicated high efficacy of Doxorubicin, Irinotecan, and Etoposide as possible therapy options that children with HGG-MYCN might benefit from.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Schoof
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Shweta Godbole
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas K Albert
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Matthias Dottermusch
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Walter
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Annika Ballast
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Nan Qin
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen/Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Neuropathology, Heinrich Heine University, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- High-Throughput Drug Screening Core Facility, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marlena Baca Olivera
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen/Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Neuropathology, Heinrich Heine University, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- High-Throughput Drug Screening Core Facility, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Carolin Göbel
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sina Neyazi
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dörthe Holdhof
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Catena Kresbach
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Cancer Career Center HaTriCS4 University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Levke-Sophie Peter
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gefion Dorothea Epplen
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Vanessa Thaden
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Spohn
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mirjam Blattner-Johnson
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Pediatric Glioma Research Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Franziska Modemann
- Mildred Scheel Cancer Career Center HaTriCS4 University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone marrow transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Mynarek
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Cancer Career Center HaTriCS4 University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Rutkowski
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Sill
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julian Varghese
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Ann-Kristin Afflerbach
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alicia Eckhardt
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Radiotherapy & Radiation Oncology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum-University Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Münter
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Archana Verma
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Nina Struve
- Mildred Scheel Cancer Career Center HaTriCS4 University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Radiotherapy & Radiation Oncology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum-University Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - David T W Jones
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Pediatric Glioma Research Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marc Remke
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen/Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Neuropathology, Heinrich Heine University, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- High-Throughput Drug Screening Core Facility, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Julia E Neumann
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kornelius Kerl
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schüller
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Hamburg, Germany.
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Smit MJ, Martini TEI, Armandari I, Bočkaj I, Zomerman WW, de Camargo Magalhães ES, Siragna Z, Meeuwsen TGJ, Scherpen FJG, Schoots MH, Ritsema M, den Dunnen WFA, Hoving EW, Paridaen JTML, de Haan G, Guryev V, Bruggeman SWM. The developmental stage of the medulloblastoma cell-of-origin restricts Hedgehog pathway usage and drug sensitivity. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:275628. [PMID: 35535520 PMCID: PMC9234672 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.258608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (SHH) medulloblastoma originates from the cerebellar granule neuron progenitor (CGNP) lineage, which depends on Hedgehog signaling for its perinatal expansion. Whereas SHH tumors exhibit overall deregulation of this pathway, they also show patient age-specific aberrations. To investigate whether the developmental stage of the CGNP can account for these age-specific lesions, we analyzed developing murine CGNP transcriptomes and observed highly dynamic gene expression as a function of age. Cross-species comparison with human SHH medulloblastoma showed partial maintenance of these expression patterns, and highlighted low primary cilium expression as hallmark of infant medulloblastoma and early embryonic CGNPs. This coincided with reduced responsiveness to upstream SHH pathway component Smoothened, whereas sensitivity to downstream components SUFU and GLI family proteins was retained. Together, these findings can explain the preference for SUFU mutations in infant medulloblastoma and suggest that drugs targeting the downstream SHH pathway will be most appropriate for infant patients. Summary: There is a relationship between the age of the medulloblastoma patient and the developmental age of the tumor cell-of-origin, and this influences the SHH pathway signaling route used by the tumor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marlinde J Smit
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Tosca E I Martini
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Inna Armandari
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Irena Bočkaj
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Walderik W Zomerman
- Department of Pediatrics/Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Eduardo S de Camargo Magalhães
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands.,Glial Cell Biology Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21949-590, Brazil
| | - Zillah Siragna
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Tiny G J Meeuwsen
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Frank J G Scherpen
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mirthe H Schoots
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Martha Ritsema
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Wilfred F A den Dunnen
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Eelco W Hoving
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Judith T M L Paridaen
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Gerald de Haan
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands.,Present address: Department of Hematopoiesis, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1066CX Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Victor Guryev
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sophia W M Bruggeman
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing/ERIBA, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Graf M, Interlandi M, Moreno N, Holdhof D, Göbel C, Melcher V, Mertins J, Albert TK, Kastrati D, Alfert A, Holsten T, de Faria F, Meisterernst M, Rossig C, Warmuth-Metz M, Nowak J, Meyer Zu Hörste G, Mayère C, Nef S, Johann P, Frühwald MC, Dugas M, Schüller U, Kerl K. Single-cell transcriptomics identifies potential cells of origin of MYC rhabdoid tumors. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1544. [PMID: 35318328 PMCID: PMC8941154 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29152-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdoid tumors (RT) are rare and highly aggressive pediatric neoplasms. Their epigenetically-driven intertumoral heterogeneity is well described; however, the cellular origin of RT remains an enigma. Here, we establish and characterize different genetically engineered mouse models driven under the control of distinct promoters and being active in early progenitor cell types with diverse embryonic onsets. From all models only Sox2-positive progenitor cells give rise to murine RT. Using single-cell analyses, we identify distinct cells of origin for the SHH and MYC subgroups of RT, rooting in early stages of embryogenesis. Intra- and extracranial MYC tumors harbor common genetic programs and potentially originate from fetal primordial germ cells (PGCs). Using PGC specific Smarcb1 knockout mouse models we validate that MYC RT originate from these progenitor cells. We uncover an epigenetic imbalance in MYC tumors compared to PGCs being sustained by epigenetically-driven subpopulations. Importantly, treatments with the DNA demethylating agent decitabine successfully impair tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. In summary, our work sheds light on the origin of RT and supports the clinical relevance of DNA methyltransferase inhibitors against this disease. Rhabdoid tumors (RT) are aggressive paediatric cancers with yet unknown cells of origin. Here, the authors establish genetically engineered mouse models of RT and, using single-cell RNA-seq and epigenomics, identify potential cells of origin for the SHH and MYC subtypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Graf
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Marta Interlandi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.,Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Natalia Moreno
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Dörthe Holdhof
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Göbel
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Viktoria Melcher
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Julius Mertins
- Department of Neurology, Schlosspark-Klinik, 14059, Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Tumor Biology, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Thomas K Albert
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Dennis Kastrati
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Amelie Alfert
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Till Holsten
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Tumor Biology, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Flavia de Faria
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.,Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Brasìlia, 70684-831, Brasìlia, Brazil
| | - Michael Meisterernst
- Institute of Molecular Tumor Biology, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Claudia Rossig
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Monika Warmuth-Metz
- Neuroradiological Reference Center, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Nowak
- Neuroradiological Reference Center, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,SRH Poliklinik Gera GmbH, Radiological Practice Gotha, Gotha, Germany
| | - Gerd Meyer Zu Hörste
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Chloe Mayère
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland.,iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland.,iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Johann
- Swabian Children's Cancer Center, Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Augsburg, 86156, Augsburg, Germany.,Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael C Frühwald
- Swabian Children's Cancer Center, Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Augsburg, 86156, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Martin Dugas
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.,Institute of Medical Informatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schüller
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kornelius Kerl
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Co-activation of Sonic hedgehog and Wnt signaling in murine retinal precursor cells drives ocular lesions with features of intraocular medulloepithelioma. Oncogenesis 2021; 10:78. [PMID: 34785636 PMCID: PMC8595639 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-021-00369-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intraocular medulloepithelioma (IO-MEPL) is a rare embryonal ocular neoplasm, prevalently occurring in children. IO-MEPLs share histomorphological features with CNS embryonal tumors with multilayered rosettes (ETMRs), referred to as intracranial medulloepitheliomas. While Sonic hedgehog (SHH) and WNT signaling pathways are crucial for ETMR pathogenesis, the impact of these pathways on human IO-MEPL development is unclear. Gene expression analyses of human embryonal tumor samples revealed similar gene expression patterns and significant overrepresentation of SHH and WNT target genes in both IO-MEPL and ETMR. In order to unravel the function of Shh and Wnt signaling for IO-MEPL pathogenesis in vivo, both pathways were activated in retinal precursor cells in a time point specific manner. Shh and Wnt co-activation in early Sox2- or Rax-expressing precursor cells resulted in infiltrative ocular lesions that displayed extraretinal expansion. Histomorphological, immunohistochemical, and molecular features showed a strong concordance with human IO-MEPL. We demonstrate a relevant role of WNT and SHH signaling in IO-MEPL and report the first mouse model to generate tumor-like lesions with features of IO-MEPL. The presented data may be fundamental for comprehending IO-MEPL initiation and developing targeted therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
|
7
|
Natsumeda M, Miyahara H, Yoshimura J, Nakata S, Nozawa T, Ito J, Kanemaru Y, Watanabe J, Tsukamoto Y, Okada M, Oishi M, Hirato J, Wataya T, Ahsan S, Tateishi K, Yamamoto T, Rodriguez FJ, Takahashi H, Hovestadt V, Suva ML, Taylor MD, Eberhart CG, Fujii Y, Kakita A. GLI3 Is Associated With Neuronal Differentiation in SHH-Activated and WNT-Activated Medulloblastoma. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2021; 80:129-136. [PMID: 33249504 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlaa141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma-associated oncogene homolog 3 (GLI3), whose main function is to inhibit GLI1, has been associated with neuronal differentiation in medulloblastoma. However, it is not clear what molecular subtype(s) show increased GLI3 expression. GLI3 levels were assessed by immunohistochemistry in 2 independent cohorts, including a total of 88 cases, and found to be high in both WNT- and SHH-activated medulloblastoma. Analysis of bulk mRNA expression data and single cell RNA sequencing studies confirmed that GLI1 and GLI3 are highly expressed in SHH-activated medulloblastoma, whereas GLI3 but not GLI1 is highly expressed in WNT-activated medulloblastoma. Immunohistochemical analysis has shown that GLI3 is expressed inside the neuronal differentiated nodules of SHH-activated medulloblastoma, whereas GLI1/2 are expressed in desmoplastic areas. In contrast, GLI3 is diffusely expressed in WNT-activated medulloblastoma, whereas GLI1 is suppressed. Our data suggest that GLI3 may be a master regulator of neuronal differentiation and morphology in these subgroups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manabu Natsumeda
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Miyahara
- Department of Pediatrics, Oita University Faculty of Medicine, Yufu, Japan.,Department of Neuropathology, Institute for Medical Science of Aging, Aichi Medical University, Japan
| | - Junichi Yoshimura
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nakata
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Takanori Nozawa
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Junko Ito
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan.,Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University
| | - Yu Kanemaru
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Jun Watanabe
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Tsukamoto
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Masayasu Okada
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Makoto Oishi
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Junko Hirato
- Department of Pathology, Public Tomioka General Hospital, Tomioka, Japan.,Department of Human Pathology, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Takafumi Wataya
- Department of Human Pathology, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Sama Ahsan
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kensuke Tateishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Yamamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Fausto J Rodriguez
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hitoshi Takahashi
- Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University
| | - Volker Hovestadt
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusettes.,Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, Massachusettes
| | - Mario L Suva
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusettes.,Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, Massachusettes
| | - Michael D Taylor
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Yukihiko Fujii
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Kakita
- Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Weishaupt H, Johansson P, Sundström A, Lubovac-Pilav Z, Olsson B, Nelander S, Swartling FJ. Batch-normalization of cerebellar and medulloblastoma gene expression datasets utilizing empirically defined negative control genes. Bioinformatics 2020; 35:3357-3364. [PMID: 30715209 PMCID: PMC6748729 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btz066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Motivation Medulloblastoma (MB) is a brain cancer predominantly arising in children. Roughly 70% of patients are cured today, but survivors often suffer from severe sequelae. MB has been extensively studied by molecular profiling, but often in small and scattered cohorts. To improve cure rates and reduce treatment side effects, accurate integration of such data to increase analytical power will be important, if not essential. Results We have integrated 23 transcription datasets, spanning 1350 MB and 291 normal brain samples. To remove batch effects, we combined the Removal of Unwanted Variation (RUV) method with a novel pipeline for determining empirical negative control genes and a panel of metrics to evaluate normalization performance. The documented approach enabled the removal of a majority of batch effects, producing a large-scale, integrative dataset of MB and cerebellar expression data. The proposed strategy will be broadly applicable for accurate integration of data and incorporation of normal reference samples for studies of various diseases. We hope that the integrated dataset will improve current research in the field of MB by allowing more large-scale gene expression analyses. Availability and implementation The RUV-normalized expression data is available through the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/) and can be accessed via the GSE series number GSE124814. Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holger Weishaupt
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Patrik Johansson
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Sundström
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Zelmina Lubovac-Pilav
- Division for Biology and Bioinformatics, School of Bioscience, The Systems Biology Research Centre, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Björn Olsson
- Division for Biology and Bioinformatics, School of Bioscience, The Systems Biology Research Centre, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Sven Nelander
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fredrik J Swartling
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Visani M, Marucci G, de Biase D, Giangaspero F, Buttarelli FR, Brandes AA, Franceschi E, Acquaviva G, Ciarrocchi A, Rhoden KJ, Tallini G, Pession A. miR-196B-5P and miR-200B-3P Are Differentially Expressed in Medulloblastomas of Adults and Children. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10050265. [PMID: 32365560 PMCID: PMC7277606 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10050265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is a highly aggressive brain tumor that typically affects children, while in adults it represents ~1% of all brain tumors. Little is known about microRNA expression profile of the rare adult medulloblastoma. The main aim of this study was to identify peculiar differences in microRNA expression between childhood and adult medulloblastoma. Medulloblastomas were profiled for microRNA expression using the Exiqon Human miRNome panel (I + II) analyzing 752 microRNAs in a training set of six adult and six childhood cases. Then, the most differentially expressed microRNAs were validated in a total of 21 adult and 19 childhood cases. Eight microRNAs (miR-196b-5p, miR-183-5p, miR-200b-3p, miR-196a-5p, miR-193a-3p, miR-29c-3p, miR-33b-5p, and miR-200a-3p) were differentially expressed in medulloblastoma of adults and children. Analysis of the validation set confirmed that miR-196b-5p and miR-200b-3p were significantly overexpressed in medulloblastoma of adults as compared with those of children. We followed an in silico approach to investigate direct targets and the pathways involved for the two microRNAs (miR-196b and miR-200b) differently expressed between adult and childhood medulloblastoma. Adult and childhood medulloblastoma have different miRNA expression profiles. In particular, the differential dysregulation of miR-196b-5p and miR-200b-3p characterizes the miRNA profile of adult medulloblastoma and suggests potential targets for novel diagnostic, prognostic, or therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Visani
- Department of Specialized, Diagnostic and Experimental Medicine, Anatomic Pathology-Molecular Diagnostic Unit AUSL-IRCCS of Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.A.); (G.T.)
- Correspondence: (M.V.); (D.d.B.); Tel.: +39-051-214-4717 (M.V. & D.d.B.); Fax: +39-051-636-3682 (M.V. & D.d.B.)
| | - Gianluca Marucci
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Ospedale Bellaria AUSL-IRCCS of Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Molecular Diagnostic Unit AUSL of Bologna, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Correspondence: (M.V.); (D.d.B.); Tel.: +39-051-214-4717 (M.V. & D.d.B.); Fax: +39-051-636-3682 (M.V. & D.d.B.)
| | - Felice Giangaspero
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University School of Medicine, 00161 Rome, Italy;
- IRCCS Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli (Isernia), Italy
| | | | - Alba Ariela Brandes
- Department of Medical Oncology, Bellaria–Maggiore Hospitals AUSL-IRCCS of Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (A.A.B.); (E.F.)
| | - Enrico Franceschi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Bellaria–Maggiore Hospitals AUSL-IRCCS of Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (A.A.B.); (E.F.)
| | - Giorgia Acquaviva
- Department of Specialized, Diagnostic and Experimental Medicine, Anatomic Pathology-Molecular Diagnostic Unit AUSL-IRCCS of Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.A.); (G.T.)
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova AUSL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Kerry Jane Rhoden
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Medical Genetics Unit, University of Bologna School of Medicine, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Specialized, Diagnostic and Experimental Medicine, Anatomic Pathology-Molecular Diagnostic Unit AUSL-IRCCS of Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.A.); (G.T.)
| | - Annalisa Pession
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Molecular Diagnostic Unit AUSL of Bologna, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hovestadt V, Ayrault O, Swartling FJ, Robinson GW, Pfister SM, Northcott PA. Medulloblastomics revisited: biological and clinical insights from thousands of patients. Nat Rev Cancer 2020; 20:42-56. [PMID: 31819232 PMCID: PMC9113832 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-019-0223-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma, a malignant brain tumour primarily diagnosed during childhood, has recently been the focus of intensive molecular profiling efforts, profoundly advancing our understanding of biologically and clinically heterogeneous disease subgroups. Genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic and proteomic landscapes have now been mapped for an unprecedented number of bulk samples from patients with medulloblastoma and, more recently, for single medulloblastoma cells. These efforts have provided pivotal new insights into the diverse molecular mechanisms presumed to drive tumour initiation, maintenance and recurrence across individual subgroups and subtypes. Translational opportunities stemming from this knowledge are continuing to evolve, providing a framework for improved diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. In this Review, we summarize recent advances derived from this continued molecular characterization of medulloblastoma and contextualize this progress towards the deployment of more effective, molecularly informed treatments for affected patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Volker Hovestadt
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Olivier Ayrault
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR, INSERM, Orsay, France
- Université Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR 3347, INSERM U1021, Orsay, France
| | - Fredrik J Swartling
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Giles W Robinson
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Stefan M Pfister
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Paediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Paul A Northcott
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Čančer M, Hutter S, Holmberg KO, Rosén G, Sundström A, Tailor J, Bergström T, Garancher A, Essand M, Wechsler-Reya RJ, Falk A, Weishaupt H, Swartling FJ. Humanized Stem Cell Models of Pediatric Medulloblastoma Reveal an Oct4/mTOR Axis that Promotes Malignancy. Cell Stem Cell 2019; 25:855-870.e11. [PMID: 31786016 PMCID: PMC6900751 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2019.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB), the most frequent malignant childhood brain tumor, can arise from cellular malfunctions during hindbrain development. Here we generate humanized models for Sonic Hedgehog (SHH)-subgroup MB via MYCN overexpression in primary human hindbrain-derived neuroepithelial stem (hbNES) cells or iPSC-derived NES cells, which display a range of aggressive phenotypes upon xenografting. iPSC-derived NES tumors develop quickly with leptomeningeal dissemination, whereas hbNES-derived cells exhibit delayed tumor formation with less dissemination. Methylation and expression profiling show that tumors from both origins recapitulate hallmarks of infant SHH MB and reveal that mTOR activation, as a result of increased Oct4, promotes aggressiveness of human SHH tumors. Targeting mTOR decreases cell viability and prolongs survival, showing the utility of these varied models for dissecting mechanisms mediating tumor aggression and demonstrating the value of humanized models for a better understanding of pediatric cancers. Human iPSC-derived or primary neuroepithelial stem cells can be transformed by MYCN MYCN drives infant SHH medulloblastoma with clinically relevant features Epigenetically regulated Oct4 promotes mTOR hyperactivation in infant SHH tumors mTOR inhibition efficiently targets metastatic SHH medulloblastoma models and PDXs
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matko Čančer
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sonja Hutter
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karl O Holmberg
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gabriela Rosén
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Sundström
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jignesh Tailor
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QR, UK
| | - Tobias Bergström
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alexandra Garancher
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 92037 La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Magnus Essand
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Robert J Wechsler-Reya
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 92037 La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Anna Falk
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Holger Weishaupt
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fredrik J Swartling
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Resolving medulloblastoma cellular architecture by single-cell genomics. Nature 2019; 572:74-79. [PMID: 31341285 PMCID: PMC6754173 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1434-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is a malignant childhood cerebellar tumour type that comprises distinct molecular subgroups. Whereas genomic characteristics of these subgroups are well defined, the extent to which cellular diversity underlies their divergent biology and clinical behaviour remains largely unexplored. Here we used single-cell transcriptomics to investigate intra- and intertumoral heterogeneity in 25 medulloblastomas spanning all molecular subgroups. WNT, SHH and Group 3 tumours comprised subgroup-specific undifferentiated and differentiated neuronal-like malignant populations, whereas Group 4 tumours consisted exclusively of differentiated neuronal-like neoplastic cells. SHH tumours closely resembled granule neurons of varying differentiation states that correlated with patient age. Group 3 and Group 4 tumours exhibited a developmental trajectory from primitive progenitor-like to more mature neuronal-like cells, the relative proportions of which distinguished these subgroups. Cross-species transcriptomics defined distinct glutamatergic populations as putative cells-of-origin for SHH and Group 4 subtypes. Collectively, these data provide insights into the cellular and developmental states underlying subtype-specific medulloblastoma biology.
Collapse
|
13
|
Menyhárt O, Győrffy B. Principles of tumorigenesis and emerging molecular drivers of SHH-activated medulloblastomas. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2019; 6:990-1005. [PMID: 31139698 PMCID: PMC6529984 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
SHH-activated medulloblastomas (SHH-MB) account for 25-30% of all medulloblastomas (MB) and occur with a bimodal age distribution, encompassing many infant and adult, but fewer childhood cases. Different age groups are characterized by distinct survival outcomes and age-specific alterations of regulatory pathways. Here, we review SHH-specific genetic aberrations and signaling pathways. Over 95% of SHH-MBs contain at least one driver event - the activating mutations frequently affect sonic hedgehog signaling (PTCH1, SMO, SUFU), genome maintenance (TP53), and chromatin modulation (KMT2D, KMT2C, HAT complexes), while genes responsible for transcriptional regulation (MYCN) are recurrently amplified. SHH-MBs have the highest prevalence of damaging germline mutations among all MBs. TP53-mutant MBs are enriched among older children and have the worst prognosis among all SHH-MBs. Numerous genetic aberrations, including mutations of TERT, DDX3X, and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway are almost exclusive to adult patients. We elaborate on the newest development within the evolution of molecular subclassification, and compare proposed risk categories across emerging classification systems. We discuss discoveries based on preclinical models and elaborate on the applicability of potential new therapies, including BET bromodomain inhibitors, statins, inhibitors of SMO, AURK, PLK, cMET, targeting stem-like cells, and emerging immunotherapeutic strategies. An enormous amount of data on the genetic background of SHH-MB have accumulated, nevertheless, subgroup affiliation does not provide reliable prediction about response to therapy. Emerging subtypes within SHH-MB offer more layered risk stratifications. Rational clinical trial designs with the incorporation of available molecular knowledge are inevitable. Improved collaboration across the scientific community will be imperative for therapeutic breakthroughs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Otília Menyhárt
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics Semmelweis University H-1094 Budapest Hungary.,MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group Institute of Enzymology Hungarian Academy of Sciences Magyar tudósok körútja 2 Budapest Hungary
| | - Balázs Győrffy
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics Semmelweis University H-1094 Budapest Hungary.,MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group Institute of Enzymology Hungarian Academy of Sciences Magyar tudósok körútja 2 Budapest Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Differential Expression of Mitochondrial Biogenesis Markers in Mouse and Human SHH-Subtype Medulloblastoma. Cells 2019; 8:cells8030216. [PMID: 30841515 PMCID: PMC6468894 DOI: 10.3390/cells8030216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is a brain tumor that arises predominantly in infants and children. It is the most common pediatric brain malignancy. Around 25% of medulloblastomas are driven by constitutive activation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway. Hedgehog-driven medulloblastoma is often studied in the laboratory using genetic mouse models with overactive Hedgehog signaling, which recapitulate many of the pathological features of human Hedgehog-dependent tumors. However, we show here that on a molecular level the human and mouse HH-dependent MB are quite distinct, with human, but not mouse, tumors characterized by the presence of markers of increased oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial biogenesis. The latter suggests that, unlike for many other types of tumors, a switch to glycolytic metabolism might not be co-opted by human SHH-MB to perpetuate their survival and growth. This needs to be taken into consideration and could potentially be exploited in the design of therapies.
Collapse
|
15
|
Gradin R, Lindstedt M, Johansson H. Batch adjustment by reference alignment (BARA): Improved prediction performance in biological test sets with batch effects. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212669. [PMID: 30794641 PMCID: PMC6386283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Many biological data acquisition platforms suffer from inadvertent inclusion of biologically irrelevant variance in analyzed data, collectively termed batch effects. Batch effects can lead to difficulties in downstream analysis by lowering the power to detect biologically interesting differences and can in certain instances lead to false discoveries. They are especially troublesome in predictive modelling where samples in training sets and test sets are often completely correlated with batches. In this article, we present BARA, a normalization method for adjusting batch effects in predictive modelling. BARA utilizes a few reference samples to adjust for batch effects in a compressed data space spanned by the training set. We evaluate BARA using a collection of publicly available datasets and three different prediction models, and compare its performance to already existing methods developed for similar purposes. The results show that data normalized with BARA generates high and consistent prediction performances. Further, they suggest that BARA produces reliable performances independent of the examined classifiers. We therefore conclude that BARA has great potential to facilitate the development of predictive assays where test sets and training sets are correlated with batch.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Malin Lindstedt
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) comprises a biologically heterogeneous group of embryonal tumours of the cerebellum. Four subgroups of MB have been described (WNT, sonic hedgehog (SHH), Group 3 and Group 4), each of which is associated with different genetic alterations, age at onset and prognosis. These subgroups have broadly been incorporated into the WHO classification of central nervous system tumours but still need to be accounted for to appropriately tailor disease risk to therapy intensity and to target therapy to disease biology. In this Primer, the epidemiology (including MB predisposition), molecular pathogenesis and integrative diagnosis taking histomorphology, molecular genetics and imaging into account are reviewed. In addition, management strategies, which encompass surgical resection of the tumour, cranio-spinal irradiation and chemotherapy, are discussed, together with the possibility of focusing more on disease biology and robust molecularly driven patient stratification in future clinical trials.
Collapse
|
17
|
Martirosian V, Neman J. Medulloblastoma: Challenges and advances in treatment and research. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2018; 2:e1146. [PMCID: PMC7941576 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Medulloblastoma (MB) is a pediatric brain tumor occurring in the posterior fossa. MB is a highly heterogeneous tumor, which can be grouped into four main subgroups: WNT, SHH, Group 3, and Group 4. Each subgroup is different both in its implicated pathways and pathology, as well as how they are treated in the clinic. Recent Findings Standard protocol for MB treatment consists of maximal safe resection, followed by craniospinal radiation (in patients 3 years and older) and adjuvant chemotherapy. Advances in clinical stratification of this tumor have allowed establishment of treatment de‐escalation trials aimed at reducing long‐term side effects. However, there have been few advances in identifying novel therapeutic strategies for MB patients due to difficulties in creating chemotherapeutics that can bypass the blood‐brain‐barrier—among other factors. On the other hand, with the help of whole genome sequencing technologies, molecular pathways involved in MB pathogenesis have become clearer and have helped drive MB research. Regardless, this advance in research has yet to translate to the clinic, which may be due to the inability of current in vivo and in vitro models to accurately recapitulate this heterogeneous tumor in humans. Conclusions There have been significant advances in knowledge and treatment of medulloblastoma over the last few decades. Whole genome sequencing has helped elucidate clear differences between the subgroups of MB, allowing physicians to better tailor treatments to each patient in an effort to reduce long‐term sequelae. However, there are still many more obstacles to overcome, including less cytotoxic therapies in the clinic and better modeling systems to accurately replicate this disease in the laboratory. Scientists and physicians must work in a more cohesive manner to create translatable results from the laboratory to the clinic—helping improve therapies for medulloblastoma patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vahan Martirosian
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of MedicineUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Josh Neman
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of MedicineUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ratnaparkhe M, Wong JKL, Wei PC, Hlevnjak M, Kolb T, Simovic M, Haag D, Paul Y, Devens F, Northcott P, Jones DTW, Kool M, Jauch A, Pastorczak A, Mlynarski W, Korshunov A, Kumar R, Downing SM, Pfister SM, Zapatka M, McKinnon PJ, Alt FW, Lichter P, Ernst A. Defective DNA damage repair leads to frequent catastrophic genomic events in murine and human tumors. Nat Commun 2018; 9:4760. [PMID: 30420702 PMCID: PMC6232171 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06925-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromothripsis and chromoanasynthesis are catastrophic events leading to clustered genomic rearrangements. Whole-genome sequencing revealed frequent complex genomic rearrangements (n = 16/26) in brain tumors developing in mice deficient for factors involved in homologous-recombination-repair or non-homologous-end-joining. Catastrophic events were tightly linked to Myc/Mycn amplification, with increased DNA damage and inefficient apoptotic response already observable at early postnatal stages. Inhibition of repair processes and comparison of the mouse tumors with human medulloblastomas (n = 68) and glioblastomas (n = 32) identified chromothripsis as associated with MYC/MYCN gains and with DNA repair deficiencies, pointing towards therapeutic opportunities to target DNA repair defects in tumors with complex genomic rearrangements. Chromothripsis and chromoanasynthesis lead to locally clustered rearrangements affecting one or a few chromosomes, but their impact on cancer development and progression is unclear. Here the authors analyse the role of DNA repair factors in brain tumors by whole-genome sequencing of tumors from mouse models of medulloblastoma or high grade gliomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manasi Ratnaparkhe
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ); Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University Germany, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - John K L Wong
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Pei-Chi Wei
- Boston Children's Hospital, Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, 02115, MA, USA
| | - Mario Hlevnjak
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Thorsten Kolb
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Milena Simovic
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ); Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University Germany, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Daniel Haag
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center at the NCT Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Yashna Paul
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Frauke Devens
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Paul Northcott
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany.,Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105-3678, United States
| | - David T W Jones
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center at the NCT Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Marcel Kool
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center at the NCT Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Anna Jauch
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Agata Pastorczak
- Department of Pediatrics, Oncology, Hematology and Diabetology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, 91-738, Poland
| | - Wojciech Mlynarski
- Department of Pediatrics, Oncology, Hematology and Diabetology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, 91-738, Poland
| | - Andrey Korshunov
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuropathology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Department of Neuropathology, Heidelberg University Hospital and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Rajiv Kumar
- Division of Molecular Genetic Epidemiology; German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Susanna M Downing
- Department of Genetics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, 38105-3678, TN, USA
| | - Stefan M Pfister
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center at the NCT Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Marc Zapatka
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Peter J McKinnon
- Department of Genetics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, 38105-3678, TN, USA
| | - Frederick W Alt
- Boston Children's Hospital, Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, 02115, MA, USA
| | - Peter Lichter
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Aurélie Ernst
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, 69120, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Dobson THW, Gopalakrishnan V. Preclinical Models of Pediatric Brain Tumors-Forging Ahead. Bioengineering (Basel) 2018; 5:bioengineering5040081. [PMID: 30279402 PMCID: PMC6315787 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering5040081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 09/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately five out of 100,000 children from 0 to 19 years old are diagnosed with a brain tumor. These children are treated with medication designed for adults that are highly toxic to a developing brain. Those that survive are at high risk for a lifetime of limited physical, psychological, and cognitive abilities. Despite much effort, not one drug exists that was designed specifically for pediatric patients. Stagnant government funding and the lack of economic incentives for the pharmaceutical industry greatly limits preclinical research and the development of clinically applicable pediatric brain tumor models. As more data are collected, the recognition of disease sub-groups based on molecular heterogeneity increases the need for designing specific models suitable for predictive drug screening. To overcome these challenges, preclinical approaches will need continual enhancement. In this review, we examine the advantages and shortcomings of in vitro and in vivo preclinical pediatric brain tumor models and explore potential solutions based on past, present, and future strategies for improving their clinical relevancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tara H W Dobson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Vidya Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Oncology, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
- Brain Tumor Center, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
- Center for Cancer Epigenetics, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences UT-Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Integrated genomics has significantly advanced our understanding of medulloblastoma heterogeneity. It is now clear that it actually comprises at least four distinct molecular subgroups termed Wnt/Wingless (WNT), Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), Group 3, and Group 4 with stark clinical and biological differences. Areas covered: This paper reviews advances in the classification and risk stratification of medulloblastoma, specifically integrating subgroup with clinical and cytogenetic risk factors, with a summary of the potential to lead to more precise therapies. Moreover, the current state of preclinical modeling is summarized with respect to their utility in generating new treatments and correlation with genomic discoveries. Opportunities and challenges in developing new treatment paradigms are summarized and discussed, specifically new therapies for very high-risk metastatic/MYC-amplified Group 3 and TP53-mutant SHH and reductions in therapy for lower risk groups. Expert commentary: Survival across medulloblastoma has been stagnant for over 30 years, and new treatment paradigms are urgently required. Current therapy significantly over treats a high proportion of patients leaving them with lifelong side effects; while many patients still succumb to their disease. Applying biological advances could improve quality of life for a significant proportion of patients while offering new upfront approaches to the highest risk patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Nör
- a Programme in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology , Hospital for Sick Children , Toronto , ON , Canada.,b Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre , Hospital for Sick Children , Toronto , ON , Canada
| | - Vijay Ramaswamy
- b Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre , Hospital for Sick Children , Toronto , ON , Canada.,c Division of Haematology/Oncology , Hospital for Sick Children , Toronto , ON , Canada
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Castillo-Rodríguez RA, Dávila-Borja VM, Juárez-Méndez S. Data mining of pediatric medulloblastoma microarray expression reveals a novel potential subdivision of the Group 4 molecular subgroup. Oncol Lett 2018; 15:6241-6250. [PMID: 29616106 PMCID: PMC5876455 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.8094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common type of solid brain tumor in children. This type of embryonic tumor is highly heterogeneous and has been classified into 4 molecular subgroups based on their gene expression profiles: WNT, SHH, Group 3 (G3) and Group 4 (G4). WNT and SHH tumors exhibit the specific dysregulation of genes and pathways, whereas G3 and G4 tumors, two of the more frequent subtypes, are the least characterized. Thus, novel markers to aid in the diagnosis, prognosis and management of medulloblastoma are required. In the present study, microarray gene expression data was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, including data from the 4 subgroups of medulloblastoma and healthy cerebellum tissue (CT). The data was utilized in an in silico analysis to characterize each subgroup at a transcriptomic level. Using Partek Genomics Suite software, the data were visualized via hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis. The differentially expressed genes were uploaded to the MetaCore portal to perform enrichment analysis using CT gene expression as baseline, with fold change thresholds of <-5 and >5 for differential expression. The data mining analysis of microarray gene expression data enabled the identification of a range of dysregulated molecules associated with each subgroup of medulloblastoma. G4 is the most heterogeneous subgroup, as no definitive pathway defines its pathogenesis; analysis of the gene expression profiles were associated with the G4α and G4β subcategories. TOX high mobility group box family member 3, synuclein α interacting protein and, potassium voltage-gated channel interacting protein 4 were identified as three novel potential markers for distinguishing the α and β subcategories of G4. These genes may be associated with medulloblastoma pathogenesis, and thus may provide a basis for researching novel targeted treatment strategies for G4 medulloblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Angélica Castillo-Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, National Institute of Pediatrics, Mexico City 04530, Mexico.,CONACyT, National Institute of Pediatrics, Mexico City 04530, Mexico
| | | | - Sergio Juárez-Méndez
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, National Institute of Pediatrics, Mexico City 04530, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lateral cerebellum is preferentially sensitive to high sonic hedgehog signaling and medulloblastoma formation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018. [PMID: 29531057 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1717815115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The main cell of origin of the Sonic hedgehog (SHH) subgroup of medulloblastoma (MB) is granule cell precursors (GCPs), a SHH-dependent transient amplifying population in the developing cerebellum. SHH-MBs can be further subdivided based on molecular and clinical parameters, as well as location because SHH-MBs occur preferentially in the lateral cerebellum (hemispheres). Our analysis of adult patient data suggests that tumors with Smoothened (SMO) mutations form more specifically in the hemispheres than those with Patched 1 (PTCH1) mutations. Using sporadic mouse models of SHH-MB with the two mutations commonly seen in adult MB, constitutive activation of Smo (SmoM2) or loss-of-Ptch1, we found that regardless of timing of induction or type of mutation, tumors developed primarily in the hemispheres, with SmoM2-mutants indeed showing a stronger specificity. We further uncovered that GCPs in the hemispheres are more susceptible to high-level SHH signaling compared with GCPs in the medial cerebellum (vermis), as more SmoM2 or Ptch1-mutant hemisphere cells remain undifferentiated and show increased tumorigenicity when transplanted. Finally, we identified location-specific GCP gene-expression profiles, and found that deletion of the genes most highly expressed in the hemispheres (Nr2f2) or vermis (Engrailed1) showed opposing effects on GCP differentiation. Our studies thus provide insights into intrinsic differences within GCPs that impact on SHH-MB progression.
Collapse
|
23
|
McKinnon T, Venier R, Yohe M, Sindiri S, Gryder BE, Shern JF, Kabaroff L, Dickson B, Schleicher K, Chouinard-Pelletier G, Menezes S, Gupta A, Zhang X, Guha R, Ferrer M, Thomas CJ, Wei Y, Davani D, Guidos CJ, Khan J, Gladdy RA. Functional screening of FGFR4-driven tumorigenesis identifies PI3K/mTOR inhibition as a therapeutic strategy in rhabdomyosarcoma. Oncogene 2018. [PMID: 29487419 DOI: 10.1038/s41388‐017‐0122‐y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common pediatric soft tissue sarcoma and outcomes have stagnated, highlighting a need for novel therapies. Genomic analysis of RMS has revealed that alterations in the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)/RAS/PI3K axis are common and that FGFR4 is frequently mutated or overexpressed. Although FGFR4 is a potentially druggable receptor tyrosine kinase, its functions in RMS are undefined. This study tested FGFR4-activating mutations and overexpression for the ability to generate RMS in mice. Murine tumor models were subsequently used to discover potential therapeutic targets and to test a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor in a preclinical setting. Specifically, we provide the first mechanistic evidence of differential potency in the most common human RMS mutations, V550E or N535K, compared to FGFR4wt overexpression as murine myoblasts expressing FGFR4V550E undergo higher rates of cellular transformation, engraftment into mice, and rapidly form sarcomas that highly resemble human RMS. Murine tumor cells overexpressing FGFR4V550E were tested in an in vitro dose-response drug screen along with human RMS cell lines. Compounds were grouped by target class, and potency was determined using average percentage of area under the dose-response curve (AUC). RMS cells were highly sensitive to PI3K/mTOR inhibitors, in particular, GSK2126458 (omipalisib) was a potent inhibitor of FGFR4V550E tumor-derived cell and human RMS cell viability. FGFR4V550E-overexpressing myoblasts and tumor cells had low nanomolar GSK2126458 EC50 values. Mass cytometry using mouse and human RMS cell lines validated GSK2126458 specificity at single-cell resolution, decreasing the abundance of phosphorylated Akt as well as decreasing phosphorylation of the downstream mTOR effectors 4ebp1, Eif4e, and S6. Moreover, PI3K/mTOR inhibition also robustly decreased the growth of RMS tumors in vivo. Thus, by developing a preclinical platform for testing novel therapies, we identified PI3K/mTOR inhibition as a promising new therapy for this devastating pediatric cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy McKinnon
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rosemarie Venier
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marielle Yohe
- Genetics Branch, Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Sivasish Sindiri
- Genetics Branch, Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Berkley E Gryder
- Genetics Branch, Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Jack F Shern
- Genetics Branch, Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Leah Kabaroff
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brendan Dickson
- Department of Pathology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Krista Schleicher
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Serena Menezes
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Abha Gupta
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Xiaohu Zhang
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Rajarashi Guha
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Marc Ferrer
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Craig J Thomas
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Yuhong Wei
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dariush Davani
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cynthia J Guidos
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Javed Khan
- Genetics Branch, Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Rebecca A Gladdy
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Functional screening of FGFR4-driven tumorigenesis identifies PI3K/mTOR inhibition as a therapeutic strategy in rhabdomyosarcoma. Oncogene 2018; 37:2630-2644. [PMID: 29487419 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-017-0122-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common pediatric soft tissue sarcoma and outcomes have stagnated, highlighting a need for novel therapies. Genomic analysis of RMS has revealed that alterations in the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)/RAS/PI3K axis are common and that FGFR4 is frequently mutated or overexpressed. Although FGFR4 is a potentially druggable receptor tyrosine kinase, its functions in RMS are undefined. This study tested FGFR4-activating mutations and overexpression for the ability to generate RMS in mice. Murine tumor models were subsequently used to discover potential therapeutic targets and to test a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor in a preclinical setting. Specifically, we provide the first mechanistic evidence of differential potency in the most common human RMS mutations, V550E or N535K, compared to FGFR4wt overexpression as murine myoblasts expressing FGFR4V550E undergo higher rates of cellular transformation, engraftment into mice, and rapidly form sarcomas that highly resemble human RMS. Murine tumor cells overexpressing FGFR4V550E were tested in an in vitro dose-response drug screen along with human RMS cell lines. Compounds were grouped by target class, and potency was determined using average percentage of area under the dose-response curve (AUC). RMS cells were highly sensitive to PI3K/mTOR inhibitors, in particular, GSK2126458 (omipalisib) was a potent inhibitor of FGFR4V550E tumor-derived cell and human RMS cell viability. FGFR4V550E-overexpressing myoblasts and tumor cells had low nanomolar GSK2126458 EC50 values. Mass cytometry using mouse and human RMS cell lines validated GSK2126458 specificity at single-cell resolution, decreasing the abundance of phosphorylated Akt as well as decreasing phosphorylation of the downstream mTOR effectors 4ebp1, Eif4e, and S6. Moreover, PI3K/mTOR inhibition also robustly decreased the growth of RMS tumors in vivo. Thus, by developing a preclinical platform for testing novel therapies, we identified PI3K/mTOR inhibition as a promising new therapy for this devastating pediatric cancer.
Collapse
|
25
|
Lassaletta A, Ramaswamy V. Medulloblastoma in adults: they're not just big kids. Neuro Oncol 2018; 18:895-7. [PMID: 27271088 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/now110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Lassaletta
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (V.R., A.L.); Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain (A.L.)
| | - Vijay Ramaswamy
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (V.R., A.L.); Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain (A.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Yi J, Wu J. Epigenetic regulation in medulloblastoma. Mol Cell Neurosci 2017; 87:65-76. [PMID: 29269116 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant childhood brain tumor. The heterogeneous tumors are classified into four subgroups based on transcription profiles. Recent developments in genome-wide sequencing techniques have rapidly advanced the understanding of these tumors. The high percentages of somatic alterations of genes encoding chromatin regulators in all subgroups suggest that epigenetic deregulation is a major driver of medulloblastoma. In this report, we review the current understanding of epigenetic regulation in medulloblastoma with a focus on the functional studies of chromatin regulators in the initiation and progression of specific subgroups of medulloblastoma. We also discuss the potential usage of epigenetic inhibitors for medulloblastoma treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqing Yi
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9040, USA
| | - Jiang Wu
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9040, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Neumann JE, Swartling FJ, Schüller U. Medulloblastoma: experimental models and reality. Acta Neuropathol 2017; 134:679-689. [PMID: 28725965 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-017-1753-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2017] [Revised: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most frequent malignant brain tumor in childhood, but it may also affect infants, adolescents, and young adults. Recent advances in the understanding of the disease have shed light on molecular and clinical heterogeneity, which is now reflected in the updated WHO classification of brain tumors. At the same time, it is well accepted that preclinical research and clinical trials have to be subgroup-specific. Hence, valid models have to be generated specifically for every medulloblastoma subgroup to properly mimic molecular fingerprints, clinical features, and responsiveness to targeted therapies. This review summarizes the availability of experimental medulloblastoma models with a particular focus on how well these models reflect the actual disease subgroup. We further describe technical advantages and disadvantages of the models and finally point out how some models have successfully been used to introduce new drugs and why some medulloblastoma subgroups are extraordinary difficult to model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia E Neumann
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fredrik J Swartling
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ulrich Schüller
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, Martinistrasse 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wei L, Murphy BL, Wu G, Parker M, Easton J, Gilbertson RJ, Zhang J, Roussel MF. Exome sequencing analysis of murine medulloblastoma models identifies WDR11 as a potential tumor suppressor in Group 3 tumors. Oncotarget 2017; 8:64685-64697. [PMID: 29029386 PMCID: PMC5630286 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mouse models of human cancers are widely used in cancer research, yet questions frequently arise regarding their faithfulness in recapitulating their human counterparts. To compare the somatic mutations of murine models with human medulloblastoma (MB), we performed whole-exome sequencing on 12 tumors representing three distinct medulloblastoma subgroups: Wnt, Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) and Group 3 (G3). In total, 64 somatic mutations were identified and validated, including 40 predicted to cause amino acid changes. After filtering and cross-species analysis with 366 human MBs from four independent studies, human orthologs for 16 of the 40 mouse genes were found to harbor non-silent mutations in human MB. Loss-of-function Kmt2d mutations detected in one mouse tumor was previously reported in 30 of 366 human MBs. In mice bearing G3 MB, one mouse succumbed to tumor burden at least 15 days earlier than other mice, raising the possibility that somatic mutations may have accelerated the tumorigenesis process. In this mouse tumor, four novel candidate genes harbored non-silent somatic mutations, Lrfn2, Smyd1, Ubn2 and Wdr11. Extended survival was found in mice harboring mouse G3 overexpressing WDR11 but not the other three genes. Genes in the KEGG WNT signaling pathway, including Ccnd1/2/3, Myc and Tcf7l1, were down-regulated in the transcriptome of G3 MB tumorspheres overexpressing WDR11, consistent with reduced tumor progression. In conclusion, we demonstrated that common spontaneous mutations were shared between human and murine models of MB suggesting similar molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis, and identified WDR11 as a protein with tumor suppressive activity in G3 MB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wei
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Brian L. Murphy
- Department of Tumor Cell Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Gang Wu
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Matthew Parker
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Genomics England, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - John Easton
- Pediatric Cancer Genome Project, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Richard J. Gilbertson
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jinghui Zhang
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Martine F. Roussel
- Department of Tumor Cell Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Neumann JE, Wefers AK, Lambo S, Bianchi E, Bockstaller M, Dorostkar MM, Meister V, Schindler P, Korshunov A, von Hoff K, Nowak J, Warmuth-Metz M, Schneider MR, Renner-Müller I, Merk DJ, Shakarami M, Sharma T, Chavez L, Glass R, Chan JA, Taketo MM, Neumann P, Kool M, Schüller U. A mouse model for embryonal tumors with multilayered rosettes uncovers the therapeutic potential of Sonic-hedgehog inhibitors. Nat Med 2017; 23:1191-1202. [DOI: 10.1038/nm.4402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
30
|
Cavalheiro GR, Matos-Rodrigues GE, Zhao Y, Gomes AL, Anand D, Predes D, de Lima S, Abreu JG, Zheng D, Lachke SA, Cvekl A, Martins RAP. N-myc regulates growth and fiber cell differentiation in lens development. Dev Biol 2017; 429:105-117. [PMID: 28716713 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Myc proto-oncogenes regulate diverse cellular processes during development, but their roles during morphogenesis of specific tissues are not fully understood. We found that c-myc regulates cell proliferation in mouse lens development and previous genome-wide studies suggested functional roles for N-myc in developing lens. Here, we examined the role of N-myc in mouse lens development. Genetic inactivation of N-myc in the surface ectoderm or lens vesicle impaired eye and lens growth, while "late" inactivation in lens fibers had no effect. Unexpectedly, defective growth of N-myc-deficient lenses was not associated with alterations in lens progenitor cell proliferation or survival. Notably, N-myc-deficient lens exhibited a delay in degradation of DNA in terminally differentiating lens fiber cells. RNA-sequencing analysis of N-myc-deficient lenses identified a cohort of down-regulated genes associated with fiber cell differentiation that included DNaseIIβ. Further, an integrated analysis of differentially expressed genes in N-myc-deficient lens using normal lens expression patterns of iSyTE, N-myc-binding motif analysis and molecular interaction data from the String database led to the derivation of an N-myc-based gene regulatory network in the lens. Finally, analysis of N-myc and c-myc double-deficient lens demonstrated that these Myc genes cooperate to drive lens growth prior to lens vesicle stage. Together, these findings provide evidence for exclusive and cooperative functions of Myc transcription factors in mouse lens development and identify novel mechanisms by which N-myc regulates cell differentiation during eye morphogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel R Cavalheiro
- Programa de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gabriel E Matos-Rodrigues
- Programa de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Yilin Zhao
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Anielle L Gomes
- Programa de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Deepti Anand
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Danilo Predes
- Programa de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Silmara de Lima
- Programa de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jose G Abreu
- Programa de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Deyou Zheng
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Salil A Lachke
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA; Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Ales Cvekl
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Rodrigo A P Martins
- Programa de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Current therapies for medulloblastoma were introduced primarily in the 1980s and consist of predominantly cytotoxic, nontargeted approaches. Mortality from medulloblastoma remains significant. In addition, many survivors suffer from severe treatment-related effects of radiation and cytotoxic chemotherapy. Further intensification of nonspecific therapy is unlikely to offer additional benefits, because survival rates have reached a plateau. Recent publications in medulloblastoma have revolved largely around the recognition that medulloblastoma per se does not exist, but rather, that there are a group of histologically similar but clinically and molecularly distinct entities that have been grouped under that rubric. Distinguishing the four molecular subgroups of medulloblastoma-wingless (WNT), sonic hedgehog (SHH), group 3, and group 4-in the daily treatment of patients, as well in the setting of clinical trials, is an important challenge in the near term for the pediatric neuro-oncology community. The preponderance of morbidity in treating patients with medulloblastoma is secondary to the treatment or prophylaxis of leptomeningeal metastases, and the cause of most deaths is leptomeningeal metastases. Recurrence of medulloblastoma is a nearly universally fatal event, with no significant salvage rate. The extent of spatial and temporal intratumoral heterogeneity as medulloblastoma metastasizes to leptomeninges and as it evolves in the face of radiation and cytotoxic chemotherapy is just beginning to be understood as a major barrier to therapeutic success. Pediatric neuro-oncology clinicians and scientists must now determine how best to incorporate rapid changes in our biologic understanding of medulloblastoma into the next generation of upfront clinical trials, with the goal of both improving survival for the highest-risk patients and improving quality of life for survivors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Ramaswamy
- All authors: Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael D Taylor
- All authors: Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Sandén E, Dyberg C, Krona C, Gallo-Oller G, Olsen TK, Enríquez Pérez J, Wickström M, Estekizadeh A, Kool M, Visse E, Ekström TJ, Siesjö P, Johnsen JI, Darabi A. Establishment and characterization of an orthotopic patient-derived Group 3 medulloblastoma model for preclinical drug evaluation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46366. [PMID: 28417956 PMCID: PMC5394470 DOI: 10.1038/srep46366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastomas comprise a heterogeneous group of tumours and can be subdivided into four molecular subgroups (WNT, SHH, Group 3 and Group 4) with distinct prognosis, biological behaviour and implications for targeted therapies. Few experimental models exist of the aggressive and poorly characterized Group 3 tumours. In order to establish a reproducible transplantable Group 3 medulloblastoma model for preclinical therapeutic studies, we acquired a patient-derived tumour sphere culture and inoculated low-passage spheres into the cerebellums of NOD-scid mice. Mice developed symptoms of brain tumours with a latency of 17–18 weeks. Neurosphere cultures were re-established and serially transplanted for 3 generations, with a negative correlation between tumour latency and numbers of injected cells. Xenografts replicated the phenotype of the primary tumour, including high degree of clustering in DNA methylation analysis, high proliferation, expression of tumour markers, MYC amplification and elevated MYC expression, and sensitivity to the MYC inhibitor JQ1. Xenografts maintained maintained expression of tumour-derived VEGFA and stromal-derived COX-2. VEGFA, COX-2 and c-Myc are highly expressed in Group 3 compared to other medulloblastoma subgroups, suggesting that these molecules are relevant therapeutic targets in Group 3 medulloblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Sandén
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurosurgery, Lund, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Dyberg
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women´s and Children´s Health, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Krona
- Uppsala University, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gabriel Gallo-Oller
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women´s and Children´s Health, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thale Kristin Olsen
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women´s and Children´s Health, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Julio Enríquez Pérez
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurosurgery, Lund, Sweden
| | - Malin Wickström
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women´s and Children´s Health, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Atosa Estekizadeh
- Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, and Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marcel Kool
- German Cancer Research Center DKFZ, Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Edward Visse
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurosurgery, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tomas J Ekström
- Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, and Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Siesjö
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurosurgery, Lund, Sweden.,Lund University, Skane University Hospital, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurosurgery, Lund, Sweden
| | - John Inge Johnsen
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women´s and Children´s Health, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Darabi
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurosurgery, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Hutter S, Bolin S, Weishaupt H, Swartling FJ. Modeling and Targeting MYC Genes in Childhood Brain Tumors. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:genes8040107. [PMID: 28333115 PMCID: PMC5406854 DOI: 10.3390/genes8040107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are the second most common group of childhood cancers, accounting for about 20%–25% of all pediatric tumors. Deregulated expression of the MYC family of transcription factors, particularly c-MYC and MYCN genes, has been found in many of these neoplasms, and their expression levels are often correlated with poor prognosis. Elevated c-MYC/MYCN initiates and drives tumorigenesis in many in vivo model systems of pediatric brain tumors. Therefore, inhibition of their oncogenic function is an attractive therapeutic target. In this review, we explore the roles of MYC oncoproteins and their molecular targets during the formation, maintenance, and recurrence of childhood brain tumors. We also briefly summarize recent progress in the development of therapeutic approaches for pharmacological inhibition of MYC activity in these tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Hutter
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Sara Bolin
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Holger Weishaupt
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Fredrik J Swartling
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Liu KW, Pajtler KW, Worst BC, Pfister SM, Wechsler-Reya RJ. Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets in pediatric brain tumors. Sci Signal 2017; 10:10/470/eaaf7593. [PMID: 28292958 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aaf7593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Brain tumors are among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in children. Although surgery, aggressive radiation, and chemotherapy have improved outcomes, many patients still die of their disease. Moreover, those who survive often suffer devastating long-term side effects from the therapies. A greater understanding of the molecular underpinnings of these diseases will drive the development of new therapeutic approaches. Advances in genomics and epigenomics have provided unprecedented insight into the molecular diversity of these diseases and, in several cases, have revealed key genes and signaling pathways that drive tumor growth. These not only serve as potential therapeutic targets but also have facilitated the creation of animal models that faithfully recapitulate the human disease for preclinical studies. In this Review, we discuss recent progress in understanding the molecular basis of the three most common malignant pediatric brain tumors-medulloblastoma, ependymoma, and high-grade glioma-and the implications for development of safer and more effective therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Wei Liu
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Kristian W Pajtler
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Centre (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) and Heidelberg University Hospital, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, University Hospital, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung, DKTK), Core Center Heidelberg, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Barbara C Worst
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Centre (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) and Heidelberg University Hospital, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, University Hospital, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung, DKTK), Core Center Heidelberg, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan M Pfister
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Centre (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) and Heidelberg University Hospital, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany. .,Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, University Hospital, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung, DKTK), Core Center Heidelberg, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert J Wechsler-Reya
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Staal JA, Pei Y, Rood BR. A Proteogenomic Approach to Understanding MYC Function in Metastatic Medulloblastoma Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101744. [PMID: 27775567 PMCID: PMC5085772 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children, and medulloblastoma is the most prevalent malignant childhood/pediatric brain tumor. Providing effective treatment for these cancers, with minimal damage to the still-developing brain, remains one of the greatest challenges faced by clinicians. Understanding the diverse events driving tumor formation, maintenance, progression, and recurrence is necessary for identifying novel targeted therapeutics and improving survival of patients with this disease. Genomic copy number alteration data, together with clinical studies, identifies c-MYC amplification as an important risk factor associated with the most aggressive forms of medulloblastoma with marked metastatic potential. Yet despite this, very little is known regarding the impact of such genomic abnormalities upon the functional biology of the tumor cell. We discuss here how recent advances in quantitative proteomic techniques are now providing new insights into the functional biology of these aggressive tumors, as illustrated by the use of proteomics to bridge the gap between the genotype and phenotype in the case of c-MYC-amplified/associated medulloblastoma. These integrated proteogenomic approaches now provide a new platform for understanding cancer biology by providing a functional context to frame genomic abnormalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerome A Staal
- Multiple Sclerosis Department, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia.
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
| | - Yanxin Pei
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
| | - Brian R Rood
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Ivanov DP, Coyle B, Walker DA, Grabowska AM. In vitro models of medulloblastoma: Choosing the right tool for the job. J Biotechnol 2016; 236:10-25. [PMID: 27498314 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2016.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The recently-defined four molecular subgroups of medulloblastoma have required updating of our understanding of in vitro models to include molecular classification and risk stratification features from clinical practice. This review seeks to build a more comprehensive picture of the in vitro systems available for modelling medulloblastoma. The subtype classification and molecular characterisation for over 40 medulloblastoma cell-lines has been compiled, making it possible to identify the strengths and weaknesses in current model systems. Less than half (18/44) of established medulloblastoma cell-lines have been subgrouped. The majority of the subgrouped cell-lines (11/18) are Group 3 with MYC-amplification. SHH cell-lines are the next most common (4/18), half of which exhibit TP53 mutation. WNT and Group 4 subgroups, accounting for 50% of patients, remain underrepresented with 1 and 2 cell-lines respectively. In vitro modelling relies not only on incorporating appropriate tumour cells, but also on using systems with the relevant tissue architecture and phenotype as well as normal tissues. Novel ways of improving the clinical relevance of in vitro models are reviewed, focusing on 3D cell culture, extracellular matrix, co-cultures with normal cells and organotypic slices. This paper champions the establishment of a collaborative online-database and linked cell-bank to catalyse preclinical medulloblastoma research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Delyan P Ivanov
- Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Cancer Biology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Beth Coyle
- Children's Brain Tumour Research Centre, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
| | - David A Walker
- Children's Brain Tumour Research Centre, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Anna M Grabowska
- Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Cancer Biology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hanaford AR, Archer TC, Price A, Kahlert UD, Maciaczyk J, Nikkhah G, Kim JW, Ehrenberger T, Clemons PA, Dančík V, Seashore-Ludlow B, Viswanathan V, Stewart ML, Rees MG, Shamji A, Schreiber S, Fraenkel E, Pomeroy SL, Mesirov JP, Tamayo P, Eberhart CG, Raabe EH. DiSCoVERing Innovative Therapies for Rare Tumors: Combining Genetically Accurate Disease Models with In Silico Analysis to Identify Novel Therapeutic Targets. Clin Cancer Res 2016; 22:3903-14. [PMID: 27012813 PMCID: PMC5055054 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-15-3011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We used human stem and progenitor cells to develop a genetically accurate novel model of MYC-driven Group 3 medulloblastoma. We also developed a new informatics method, Disease-model Signature versus Compound-Variety Enriched Response ("DiSCoVER"), to identify novel therapeutics that target this specific disease subtype. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Human neural stem and progenitor cells derived from the cerebellar anlage were transduced with oncogenic elements associated with aggressive medulloblastoma. An in silico analysis method for screening drug sensitivity databases (DiSCoVER) was used in multiple drug sensitivity datasets. We validated the top hits from this analysis in vitro and in vivo RESULTS Human neural stem and progenitor cells transformed with c-MYC, dominant-negative p53, constitutively active AKT and hTERT formed tumors in mice that recapitulated Group 3 medulloblastoma in terms of pathology and expression profile. DiSCoVER analysis predicted that aggressive MYC-driven Group 3 medulloblastoma would be sensitive to cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors. The CDK 4/6 inhibitor palbociclib decreased proliferation, increased apoptosis, and significantly extended the survival of mice with orthotopic medulloblastoma xenografts. CONCLUSIONS We present a new method to generate genetically accurate models of rare tumors, and a companion computational methodology to find therapeutic interventions that target them. We validated our human neural stem cell model of MYC-driven Group 3 medulloblastoma and showed that CDK 4/6 inhibitors are active against this subgroup. Our results suggest that palbociclib is a potential effective treatment for poor prognosis MYC-driven Group 3 medulloblastoma tumors in carefully selected patients. Clin Cancer Res; 22(15); 3903-14. ©2016 AACR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allison R Hanaford
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tenley C Archer
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Antoinette Price
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ulf D Kahlert
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heinrich-Heine University Hospital, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Jarek Maciaczyk
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heinrich-Heine University Hospital, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Guido Nikkhah
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Jong Wook Kim
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tobias Ehrenberger
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Paul A Clemons
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Center for the Science of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Vlado Dančík
- Center for the Science of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | | | - Vasanthi Viswanathan
- Center for the Science of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Michelle L Stewart
- Center for the Science of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Matthew G Rees
- Center for the Science of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Alykhan Shamji
- Center for the Science of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Stuart Schreiber
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Center for the Science of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland
| | - Ernest Fraenkel
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Scott L Pomeroy
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Jill P Mesirov
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California. Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Pablo Tamayo
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California. Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Charles G Eberhart
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - Eric H Raabe
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland. Division of Pediatric Oncology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
MM2S: personalized diagnosis of medulloblastoma patients and model systems. SOURCE CODE FOR BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2016; 11:6. [PMID: 27069505 PMCID: PMC4827218 DOI: 10.1186/s13029-016-0053-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Medulloblastoma (MB) is a highly malignant and heterogeneous brain tumour that is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in children. Increasing availability of genomic data over the last decade had resulted in improvement of human subtype classification methods, and the parallel development of MB mouse models towards identification of subtype-specific disease origins and signaling pathways. Despite these advances, MB classification schemes remained inadequate for personalized prediction of MB subtypes for individual patient samples and across model systems. To address this issue, we developed the Medullo-Model to Subtypes (MM2S) classifier, a new method enabling classification of individual gene expression profiles from MB samples (patient samples, mouse models, and cell lines) against well-established molecular subtypes [Genomics 106:96-106, 2015]. We demonstrated the accuracy and flexibility of MM2S in the largest meta-analysis of human patients and mouse models to date. Here, we present a new functional package that provides an easy-to-use and fully documented implementation of the MM2S method, with additional functionalities that allow users to obtain graphical and tabular summaries of MB subtype predictions for single samples and across sample replicates. The flexibility of the MM2S package promotes incorporation of MB predictions into large Medulloblastoma-driven analysis pipelines, making this tool suitable for use by researchers. Results The MM2S package is applied in two case studies involving human primary patient samples, as well as sample replicates of the GTML mouse model. We highlight functions that are of use for species-specific MB classification, across individual samples and sample replicates. We emphasize on the range of functions that can be used to derive both singular and meta-centric views of MB predictions, across samples and across MB subtypes. Conclusions Our MM2S package can be used to generate predictions without having to rely on an external web server or additional sources. Our open-source package facilitates and extends the MM2S algorithm in diverse computational and bioinformatics contexts. The package is available on CRAN, at the following URL: https://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/MM2S/, as well as on Github at the following URLs: https://github.com/DGendoo and https://github.com/bhklab. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13029-016-0053-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
39
|
Hemmesi K, Squadrito ML, Mestdagh P, Conti V, Cominelli M, Piras IS, Sergi LS, Piccinin S, Maestro R, Poliani PL, Speleman F, De Palma M, Galli R. miR-135a Inhibits Cancer Stem Cell-Driven Medulloblastoma Development by Directly Repressing Arhgef6 Expression. Stem Cells 2016; 33:1377-89. [PMID: 25639612 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) are short noncoding RNAs, which regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally and play crucial roles in relevant biological and pathological processes. Here, we investigated the putative role of miRNAs in modulating the tumor-initiating potential of mouse medulloblastoma (MB)-derived cancer stem cells (CSCs). We first subjected bona fide highly tumorigenic (HT) CSCs as well as lowly tumorigenic MB CSCs and normal neural stem cells to miRNA profiling, which identified a HT CSC-specific miRNA signature. Next, by cross-checking CSC mRNA/miRNA profiles, we pinpointed miR-135a as a potential tumor suppressor gene, which was strongly downregulated in HT CSCs as well as in the highly malignant experimental tumors derived from them. Remarkably, enforced expression of miR-135a in HT CSCs strongly inhibited tumorigenesis by repressing the miR-135a direct target gene Arhgef6. Considering the upregulation of Arhgef6 in human MBs and its involvement in mediating experimental medulloblastomagenesis, its efficient suppression by miR-135a might make available an effective therapeutic strategy to selectively impair the tumorigenic potential of MB CSCs. Stem Cells 2015;33:1377-1389.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katayoun Hemmesi
- Neural Stem Cell Biology Unit, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells and Gene Therapy, Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Singh AR, Joshi S, Zulcic M, Alcaraz M, Garlich JR, Morales GA, Cho YJ, Bao L, Levy ML, Newbury R, Malicki D, Messer K, Crawford J, Durden DL. PI-3K Inhibitors Preferentially Target CD15+ Cancer Stem Cell Population in SHH Driven Medulloblastoma. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150836. [PMID: 26938241 PMCID: PMC4777592 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (SHH) medulloblastoma (MB) subtype is driven by a proliferative CD15+ tumor propagating cell (TPC), also considered in the literature as a putative cancer stem cell (CSC). Despite considerable research, much of the biology of this TPC remains unknown. We report evidence that phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI-3K) play a crucial role in the propagation, survival and potential response to therapy in this CD15+ CSC/TPC-driven malignant disease. Using the ND2-SmoA1 transgenic mouse model for MB, mouse genetics and patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), we demonstrate that the CD15+TPCs are 1) obligately required for SmoA1Tg-driven tumorigenicity 2) regulated by PTEN and PI-3K signaling 3) selectively sensitive to the cytotoxic effects of pan PI-3K inhibitors in vitro and in vivo but resistant to chemotherapy 4) in the SmoA1Tg mouse model are genomically similar to the SHH human MB subgroup. The results provide the first evidence that PTEN plays a role in MB TPC signaling and biology and that PI-3K inhibitors target and suppress the survival and proliferation of cells within the mouse and human CD15+ cancer stem cell compartment. In contrast, CD15+ TPCs are resistant to cisplatinum, temozolomide and the SHH inhibitor, NVP-LDE-225, agents currently used in treatment of medulloblastoma. These studies validate the therapeutic efficacy of pan PI-3K inhibitors in the treatment of CD15+ TPC dependent medulloblastoma and suggest a sequential combination of PI-3K inhibitors and chemotherapy will have augmented efficacy in the treatment of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alok R. Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, Moores Cancer Center, UC San Diego Health System, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Shweta Joshi
- Department of Pediatrics, Moores Cancer Center, UC San Diego Health System, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Muamera Zulcic
- Department of Pediatrics, Moores Cancer Center, UC San Diego Health System, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Michael Alcaraz
- Department of Pediatrics, Moores Cancer Center, UC San Diego Health System, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | | | | | - Yoon J. Cho
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Lei Bao
- Biostatistics Department, Moores Cancer Center, UC San Diego Health System, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Michael L. Levy
- Department of Neurosurgery, UCSD Rady Children’s Hospital, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Robert Newbury
- Department of Pathology, UCSD Rady Children’s Hospital, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Denise Malicki
- Department of Pathology, UCSD Rady Children’s Hospital, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Karen Messer
- Biostatistics Department, Moores Cancer Center, UC San Diego Health System, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - John Crawford
- Department of Neurosciences Division of Child Neurology, UCSD Rady Children’s Hospital, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Donald L. Durden
- Department of Pediatrics, Moores Cancer Center, UC San Diego Health System, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, UCSD Rady Children’s Hospital, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Insights into cerebellar development and medulloblastoma. Bull Cancer 2015; 103:30-40. [PMID: 26688373 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2015.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar development is an extensive process that begins during early embryonic stages and persists more than one year after birth in human. Therefore, the cerebellum is susceptible to acquire various developmental abnormalities leading to numerous diseases such as medulloblastoma, the most common pediatric malignant brain tumor. One third of the patients with medulloblastoma are incurable and survivors have a poor quality of life due to the aggressiveness of the broad-spectrum treatments. Within the past few years, it has been highlighted that medulloblastoma is a heterogeneous disease that is divided in four molecular subgroups. This recent advance in the field, combined with the development of associated preclinical models for each subgroup, should enable, in the future, the discovery and use of targeted therapy in clinical treatments for each subtype of medulloblastoma. In this review, we first aim to show how deregulation of cerebellar development can lead to medulloblastoma formation and then to present the advances in the molecular subgrouping of medulloblastoma and the associated preclinical models.
Collapse
|
42
|
Skowron P, Ramaswamy V, Taylor MD. Genetic and molecular alterations across medulloblastoma subgroups. J Mol Med (Berl) 2015; 93:1075-84. [PMID: 26350064 PMCID: PMC4599700 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-015-1333-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumour diagnosed in children. Over the last few decades, advances in radiation and chemotherapy have significantly improved the odds of survival. Nevertheless, one third of all patients still succumb to their disease, and many long-term survivors are afflicted with neurocognitive sequelae. Large-scale multi-institutional efforts have provided insight into the transcriptional and genetic landscape of medulloblastoma. Four distinct subgroups of medulloblastoma have been identified, defined by distinct transcriptomes, genetics, demographics and outcomes. Integrated genomic profiling of each of these subgroups has revealed distinct genetic alterations, driving pathways and in some instances cells of origin. In this review, we highlight, in a subgroup-specific manner, our current knowledge of the genetic and molecular alterations in medulloblastoma and underscore the possible avenues for future therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patryk Skowron
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vijay Ramaswamy
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael D Taylor
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Division of Neurosurgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555, University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
|
44
|
Localization of SHH medulloblastoma in mice depends on the age at its initiation. Acta Neuropathol 2015; 130:307-9. [PMID: 26092032 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-015-1453-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
45
|
Zhao X, Ponomaryov T, Ornell KJ, Zhou P, Dabral SK, Pak E, Li W, Atwood SX, Whitson RJ, Chang ALS, Li J, Oro AE, Chan JA, Kelleher JF, Segal RA. RAS/MAPK Activation Drives Resistance to Smo Inhibition, Metastasis, and Tumor Evolution in Shh Pathway-Dependent Tumors. Cancer Res 2015; 75:3623-35. [PMID: 26130651 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-14-2999-t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant Shh signaling promotes tumor growth in diverse cancers. The importance of Shh signaling is particularly evident in medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma (BCC), where inhibitors targeting the Shh pathway component Smoothened (Smo) show great therapeutic promise. However, the emergence of drug resistance limits long-term efficacy, and the mechanisms of resistance remain poorly understood. Using new medulloblastoma models, we identify two distinct paradigms of resistance to Smo inhibition. Sufu mutations lead to maintenance of the Shh pathway in the presence of Smo inhibitors. Alternatively activation of the RAS-MAPK pathway circumvents Shh pathway dependency, drives tumor growth, and enhances metastatic behavior. Strikingly, in BCC patients treated with Smo inhibitor, squamous cell cancers with RAS/MAPK activation emerged from the antecedent BCC tumors. Together, these findings reveal a critical role of the RAS-MAPK pathway in drug resistance and tumor evolution of Shh pathway-dependent tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuesong Zhao
- Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts. Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tatyana Ponomaryov
- Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts. Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts. University of Birmingham, Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Kimberly J Ornell
- Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts. Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Pengcheng Zhou
- Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts. Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sukriti K Dabral
- Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts. Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ekaterina Pak
- Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts. Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Wei Li
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Scott X Atwood
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Ramon J Whitson
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Anne Lynn S Chang
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Jiang Li
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Anthony E Oro
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Jennifer A Chan
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joseph F Kelleher
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Rosalind A Segal
- Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts. Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Personalized diagnosis of medulloblastoma subtypes across patients and model systems. Genomics 2015; 106:96-106. [PMID: 25979459 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Molecular subtyping is instrumental towards selection of model systems for fundamental research in tumor pathogenesis, and clinical patient assessment. Medulloblastoma (MB) is a highly heterogeneous, malignant brain tumor that is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in children. Current MB classification schemes require large sample sizes, and standard reference samples, for subtype predictions. Such approaches are impractical in clinical settings with limited tumor biopsies, and unsuitable for model system predictions where standard reference samples are unavailable. Our developed Medullo-Model To Subtype (MM2S) classifier stratifies single MB gene expression profiles without reference samples or replicates. Our pathway-centric approach facilitates subtype predictions of patient samples, and model systems including cell lines and mouse models. MM2S demonstrates >96% accuracy for patients of well-characterized normal cerebellum, WNT, or SHH subtypes, and the less-characterized Group 4 (86%) and Group 3 (78.2%). MM2S also enables classification of MB cell lines and mouse models into their human counterparts.
Collapse
|
47
|
Ahmad Z, Jasnos L, Gil V, Howell L, Hallsworth A, Petrie K, Sawado T, Chesler L. Molecular and in vivo characterization of cancer-propagating cells derived from MYCN-dependent medulloblastoma. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0119834. [PMID: 25785590 PMCID: PMC4365014 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0119834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor. While the pathways that are deregulated in MB remain to be fully characterized, amplification and/or overexpression of the MYCN gene, which is has a critical role in cerebellar development as a regulator of neural progenitor cell fate, has been identified in several MB subgroups. Phenotypically, aberrant expression of MYCN is associated with the large-cell/anaplastic MB variant, which accounts for 5-15% of cases and is associated with aggressive disease and poor clinical outcome. To better understand the role of MYCN in MB in vitro and in vivo and to aid the development of MYCN-targeted therapeutics we established tumor-derived neurosphere cell lines from the GTML (Glt1-tTA/TRE-MYCN-Luc) genetically engineered mouse model. A fraction of GTML neurospheres were found to be growth factor independent, expressed CD133 (a marker of neural stem cells), failed to differentiate upon MYCN withdrawal and were highly tumorigenic when orthotopically implanted into the cerebellum. Principal component analyzes using single cell RNA assay data suggested that the clinical candidate aurora-A kinase inhibitor MLN8237 converts GTML neurospheres to resemble non-MYCN expressors. Correlating with this, MLN8237 significantly extended the survival of mice bearing GTML MB allografts. In summary, our results demonstrate that MYCN plays a critical role in expansion and survival of aggressive MB-propagating cells, and establish GTML neurospheres as an important resource for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zai Ahmad
- Division of Clinical Studies, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Lukasz Jasnos
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Veronica Gil
- Division of Clinical Studies, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Howell
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Albert Hallsworth
- Division of Clinical Studies, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Petrie
- Division of Clinical Studies, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Tomoyuki Sawado
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Louis Chesler
- Division of Clinical Studies, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Abstract
SMARCA4 (BRG1) and SMARCB1 (INI1) are tumor suppressor genes that are crucially involved in the formation of malignant rhabdoid tumors, such as atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT). AT/RTs typically affect infants and occur at various sites of the CNS with a particular frequency in the cerebellum. Here, granule neurons and their progenitors represent the most abundant cell type and are known to give rise to a subset of medulloblastoma, a histologically similar embryonal brain tumor. To test how Smarc proteins influence the development of granule neurons and whether this population may serve as cellular origin for AT/RTs, we specifically deleted Smarca4 and Smarcb1 in cerebellar granule cell precursors. Respective mutant mice displayed severe ataxia and motor coordination deficits, but did not develop any tumors. In fact, they suffered from a severely hypoplastic cerebellum due to a significant inhibition of granule neuron precursor proliferation. Molecularly, this was accompanied by an enhanced activity of Wnt/β-catenin signaling that, by itself, is known to cause a nearly identical phenotype. We further used an hGFAP-cre allele, which deleted Smarcb1 much earlier and in a wider neural precursor population, but we still did not detect any tumor formation in the CNS. In summary, our results emphasize cell-type-dependent roles of Smarc proteins and argue against cerebellar granule cells and other progeny of hGFAP-positive neural precursors as the cellular origin for AT/RTs.
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
New, less toxic therapies are needed for medulloblastoma, the most common malignant brain tumor in children. Like many cancers, medulloblastomas demonstrate metabolic patterns that are markedly different from the surrounding non-neoplastic tissue and are highly organized to support tumor growth. Key aspects of medulloblastoma metabolism, including increased lipogenesis and aerobic glycolysis are derived from the metabolic programs of neural progenitors. During neural development, Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling induces lipogenesis and aerobic glycolysis in proliferating progenitors to support rapid growth. Shh-regulated transcription induces specific genes, including hexokinase 2 (Hk2) and fatty acid synthase (FASN) that mediate these metabolic patterns. Medulloblastomas co-opt these developmentally-regulated patterns of metabolic gene expression for sustained tumor growth. Additionally, medulloblastomas limit protein translation through activation of eukaryotic elongation factor 2 kinase (eEF2K), to restrict energy expenditure. The activation of eEF2K reduces the need to generate ATP, enabling reduced dependence on oxidative phosphorylation and increased metabolism of glucose through aerobic glycolysis. Lipogenesis, aerobic glycolysis and restriction of protein translation operate in a network of metabolic processes that is integrated by adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) to maintain homeostasis. The homeostatic effect of AMPK has the potential to limit the impact of metabolically targeted interventions. Through combinatorial targeting of lipogenesis, glycolysis and eEF2K, however, this homeostatic effect may be overcome. We propose that combinatorial targeting of medulloblastoma metabolism may produce the synergies needed for effective anti-cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Tech
- 1 Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, NC State University and UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA ; 2 Department of Neurology, 3 Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, 4 UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Timothy R Gershon
- 1 Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, NC State University and UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA ; 2 Department of Neurology, 3 Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, 4 UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Swartling FJ, Čančer M, Frantz A, Weishaupt H, Persson AI. Deregulated proliferation and differentiation in brain tumors. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 359:225-54. [PMID: 25416506 PMCID: PMC4286433 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-2046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2014] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Neurogenesis, the generation of new neurons, is deregulated in neural stem cell (NSC)- and progenitor-derived murine models of malignant medulloblastoma and glioma, the most common brain tumors of children and adults, respectively. Molecular characterization of human malignant brain tumors, and in particular brain tumor stem cells (BTSCs), has identified neurodevelopmental transcription factors, microRNAs, and epigenetic factors known to inhibit neuronal and glial differentiation. We are starting to understand how these factors are regulated by the major oncogenic drivers in malignant brain tumors. In this review, we will focus on the molecular switches that block normal neuronal differentiation and induce brain tumor formation. Genetic or pharmacological manipulation of these switches in BTSCs has been shown to restore the ability of tumor cells to differentiate. We will discuss potential brain tumor therapies that will promote differentiation in order to reduce treatment resistance, suppress tumor growth, and prevent recurrence in patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fredrik J Swartling
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
| | - Matko Čančer
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
| | - Aaron Frantz
- Departments of Neurology and Neurological Surgery, Sandler Neurosciences Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Brain Tumor Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Holger Weishaupt
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
| | - Anders I Persson
- Departments of Neurology and Neurological Surgery, Sandler Neurosciences Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Brain Tumor Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| |
Collapse
|