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Narod SA. Choices for cancer prevention for women with a BRCA1 mutation? a personal view. Hered Cancer Clin Pract 2023; 21:26. [PMID: 38031144 PMCID: PMC10685461 DOI: 10.1186/s13053-023-00271-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
With widespread testing for susceptibility genes, increasing numbers of women are being identified to carry a mutation in one of many genes which renders them susceptible to cancer. The first gene to be identified (in 1994) was BRCA1 which increases a woman's risk for breast cancer (70%) and ovarian cancer (40%). The prevalence of BRCA1 gene mutations has been studied widely and in many countries, mostly in women affected with cancer. In many settings testing is offered routinely to women with serous ovarian cancer or early-onset or triple-negative breast cancer. It is preferable to identify a mutation in a healthy women prior to the diagnosis of cancer. The basic strategies for prevention include surgical prevention, chemoprevention and screening (early detection). Much progress has been made in the past two decades evaluating the benefits of these three approaches. In this commentary I provide my personal views regarding these various interventions in the context of counselling a newly diagnosed health woman with a BRCA1 mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A Narod
- Women's College Research Institute, University of Toronto, 790 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Gomes I, Gallego-Paez LM, Jiménez M, Santamaria PG, Mansinho A, Sousa R, Abreu C, Suárez EG, Costa L, Casimiro S. Co-targeting RANK pathway treats and prevents acquired resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors in luminal breast cancer. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101120. [PMID: 37451269 PMCID: PMC10439176 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The combination of endocrine therapy (ET) and cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors (CDK4/6i) was a hallmark in metastatic luminal breast cancer (BC). However, intrinsic and acquired resistance affects long-term efficacy. Here, we study the role of the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK) pathway in CDK4/6i resistance. We find that RANK overexpression in luminal BC is associated with intrinsic resistance to CDK4/6i, both in vitro and in mouse xenografts, and decreased proliferation rate and chronic interferon (IFN) γ response are highlighted as resistance drivers. Gene expression data from the NeoPalAna CDK4/6i clinical trial, and studies with palbociclib-resistant cell lines, show that RANK is upregulated after treatment with CDK4/6i, supporting a role in acquired resistance. Our study shows that RANK ligand (RANKL) inhibitors can restore sensitivity to CDK4/6i and prevent acquired resistance. On the basis of these findings, we conclude that pharmacological inhibition of the RANK pathway through RANKL blocking could represent an add-on to ET + CDK4/6i, warranting further clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Gomes
- Luis Costa Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Medicine (iMM), Lisbon Medical School, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Lina M Gallego-Paez
- Luis Costa Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Medicine (iMM), Lisbon Medical School, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Jiménez
- Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - André Mansinho
- Oncology Division, Hospital de Santa Maria-CHULN, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rita Sousa
- Oncology Division, Hospital de Santa Maria-CHULN, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Catarina Abreu
- Oncology Division, Hospital de Santa Maria-CHULN, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Eva González Suárez
- Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), 28029 Madrid, Spain; Oncobell, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, IDIBELL, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis Costa
- Luis Costa Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Medicine (iMM), Lisbon Medical School, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; Oncology Division, Hospital de Santa Maria-CHULN, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Sandra Casimiro
- Luis Costa Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Medicine (iMM), Lisbon Medical School, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal.
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Kotsopoulos J, Gronwald J, Huzarski T, Aeilts A, Randall Armel S, Karlan B, Singer CF, Eisen A, Tung N, Olopade O, Bordeleau L, Eng C, Foulkes WD, Neuhausen SL, Cullinane CA, Pal T, Fruscio R, Lubinski J, Metcalfe K, Sun P, Narod SA. Tamoxifen and the risk of breast cancer in women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2023:10.1007/s10549-023-06991-3. [PMID: 37432545 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-023-06991-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chemoprevention with a selective estrogen receptor modulator (tamoxifen or raloxifene) is a non-surgical option offered to high-risk women to reduce the risk of breast cancer. The evidence for tamoxifen benefit is based on trials conducted among predominantly postmenopausal women from the general population and on studies of contralateral breast cancer in women with a pathogenic variant (mutation hereafter) in BRCA1 or BRCA2. Tamoxifen has not been assessed as a primary prevention agent in women with an inherited BRCA mutation. METHODS We conducted a prospective analysis of tamoxifen chemoprevention and the risk of breast cancer in women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. Data on tamoxifen (and raloxifene) use was collected by questionnaire and updated biennially. Information on incident cancers was collected by self-report and was confirmed by medical record review. In a matched analysis, we estimated the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for developing a first primary breast cancer associated with tamoxifen or raloxifene use, using Cox proportional hazards analysis. RESULTS There were 4578 unaffected women in the cohort, of whom 137 reported tamoxifen use (3%), 83 reported raloxifene use (2%) and 12 used both drugs (0.3%). Women who used tamoxifen or raloxifene were matched 1:3 with women who used neither drug on year of birth, country of residence, year of study entry and gene (BRCA1 or BRCA2). We generated 202 matched pairs. After a mean follow-up of 6.8 years, there were 22 incident breast cancers diagnosed among tamoxifen/raloxifene users (10.9% of users) and 71 cases diagnosed among non-users (14.3% of non-users; HR = 0.64; 95% CI 0.40-1.03; P = 0.07). CONCLUSION Chemoprevention may be an effective risk-reduction option for BRCA mutation carriers, but further studies with longer follow-up are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Kotsopoulos
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jacek Gronwald
- International Hereditary Cancer Center, Department of Genetics and Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Huzarski
- International Hereditary Cancer Center, Department of Genetics and Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Amber Aeilts
- Division of Human Genetics, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Susan Randall Armel
- Bhalwani Familial Cancer Clinic, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Beth Karlan
- David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christian F Singer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andrea Eisen
- Toronto-Sunnybrook Regional Cancer Center, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nadine Tung
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Olufunmilayo Olopade
- Department of Medicine and Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Louise Bordeleau
- Department of Oncology, Juravinski Cancer Centre and McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Charis Eng
- Genomic Medicine Institute and Center for Personalized Genetic Healthcare, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, USA
| | - William D Foulkes
- Department of Oncology, McGill Program in Cancer Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Susan L Neuhausen
- Division of Biomarkers of Early Detection and Prevention, City of Hope, Duarte, USA
| | - Carey A Cullinane
- Todd Cancer Institute, Long Beach Memorial Hospital, Long Beach, CA, USA
| | - Tuya Pal
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Robert Fruscio
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Jan Lubinski
- International Hereditary Cancer Center, Department of Genetics and Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Kelly Metcalfe
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Bloomberg School of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ping Sun
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Steven A Narod
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, 76 Grenville St., 6Th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5S 1B2, Canada.
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Ishikawa T. Differences between zoledronic acid and denosumab for breast cancer treatment. J Bone Miner Metab 2023; 41:301-306. [PMID: 36879056 DOI: 10.1007/s00774-023-01408-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Zoledronic acid and denosumab are bone-modifying agents that are clinically important in multiple aspects of bone management for breast cancer patients. These aspects include the prevention of osteoporosis induced by cancer-treatment bone loss, treatment and prevention of bone metastasis, and improvement of survival directly or indirectly by maintaining bone health. Interestingly, zoledronic acid and denosumab have different anticancer activities, and they may be associated with the improvement of survival of breast cancer patients under different mechanisms. Zoledronic acid is the most potent bisphosphonate. It provides significant benefits for improving breast cancer mortality in patients with suppressed estrogen level such as in postmenopausal or ovarian suppression condition. Although denosumab's anticancer activity has not been clearly proven compared with zoledronic acid's anticancer activity, denosumab is promising in preventing BRCA1 mutant breast cancer because RANKL is a targetable pathway in BRCA1-associated tumorigenesis. Further studies and more effective clinical use of these agents are anticipated to contribute to the improvement of the clinical outcome of breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ishikawa
- Department of Breast Oncology and Surgery, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan.
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Functions of Breast Cancer Predisposition Genes: Implications for Clinical Management. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137481. [PMID: 35806485 PMCID: PMC9267387 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 5–10% of all breast cancer (BC) cases are caused by germline pathogenic variants (GPVs) in various cancer predisposition genes (CPGs). The most common contributors to hereditary BC are BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). ATM, BARD1, CHEK2, PALB2, RAD51C, and RAD51D have also been recognized as CPGs with a high to moderate risk of BC. Primary and secondary cancer prevention strategies have been established for HBOC patients; however, optimal preventive strategies for most hereditary BCs have not yet been established. Most BC-associated CPGs participate in DNA damage repair pathways and cell cycle checkpoint mechanisms, and function jointly in such cascades; therefore, a fundamental understanding of the disease drivers in such cascades can facilitate the accurate estimation of the genetic risk of developing BC and the selection of appropriate preventive and therapeutic strategies to manage hereditary BCs. Herein, we review the functions of key BC-associated CPGs and strategies for the clinical management in individuals harboring the GPVs of such genes.
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Edaily S, Abdel-Razeq H. Management Strategies of Breast Cancer Patients with BRCA1 and BRCA2 Pathogenic Germline Variants. Onco Targets Ther 2022; 15:815-826. [PMID: 35923470 PMCID: PMC9343017 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s369844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Most of breast cancer cases are sporadic; however, 15–20% are associated with family history, and some are inherited. Among those, deleterious mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 tumor suppressor genes are the most commonly encountered pathogenic germline variants (PGVs). Given the availability and affordability of multi-gene panel sequencing technologies, testing for PGVs is commonly practiced. With our enhanced understanding of cancer genetics and specific molecular alterations, the better acceptance of risk-directed screening and prevention, and the recent introduction of novel targeted therapies, management of BRCA-positive breast cancers is taking a new direction, focusing more on risk-reducing interventions, including mastectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy, and incorporating special treatment regimens, including platinum-based chemotherapy, and the recently-introduced PARP (poly (ADP)-ribose polymerase) inhibitors. Given the recent advances in reproductive technology and molecular medicine, younger women with PGVs may have the option of embryo selection through preimplantation genetic testing and diagnosis, thus preventing the potential transmission of the implicated genes to the next generations. In this review, we cover the clinical implications of identifying a pathogenic germline mutation in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in breast cancer patients, and their relatives, across the continuum of care – from cancer prevention and early detection, through active treatment and up to survivorship issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Edaily
- Department of Internal Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hikmat Abdel-Razeq
- Department of Internal Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
- Correspondence: Hikmat Abdel-Razeq, Department of Internal Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Queen Rania Al Abdullah Street, P.O. Box: 1269, Amman, 11941, Jordan, Tel +962-6 5300460, Ext: 1000, Email
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Risk-Reducing Options for High-Grade Serous Gynecologic Malignancy in BRCA1/2. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:2132-2140. [PMID: 35323372 PMCID: PMC8946924 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29030172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is the leading cause of death among women with gynecologic malignancy. Breast Cancer Susceptibility Gene 1 (BRCA 1) and Breast Cancer Susceptibility Gene 2 (BRCA 2) germline mutations confer an estimated 20 to 40 times increased risk of OC when compared to the general population. The majority of BRCA-associated OC is identified in the late stage, and no effective screening method has been proven to reduce mortality. Several pharmacologic and surgical options exist for risk-reduction of gynecologic malignancy in BRCA 1/2 mutation carriers. This review summarizes up-to-date research on pharmacologic risk-reducing interventions, including the oral contraceptive pill, acetylsalicylic acid/nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs (ASA/NSAID) therapy, and denosumab, and surgical risk-reducing interventions, including risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, salpingectomy with delayed oophorectomy, and hysterectomy at the time of risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.
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Experience With Denosumab (XGEVA®) for Prevention of Skeletal-Related Events in the 10 Years After Approval. J Bone Oncol 2022; 33:100416. [PMID: 35242510 PMCID: PMC8857591 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2022.100416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
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Clinicopathological features and BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation status in a prospective cohort of young women with breast cancer. Br J Cancer 2021; 126:302-309. [PMID: 34703009 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01597-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer in young women is more likely to have higher risk features and be associated with germline BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations. We present the clinicopathologic features of breast cancers in a prospective cohort of young women, and associations between surrogate molecular subtype and BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation status. METHODS Histopathological features, biomarker status, tumour stage and BRCA status were collected. Invasive tumours were categorised as luminal A-like (ER + and/or PR + , HER2-, grade 1/2), luminal B-like (ER + and/or PR + , HER2 + , or ER + and/or PR + , HER2-, and grade 3), HER2-enriched (ER/PR-, HER2 + ) or triple-negative. RESULTS In all, 57.3% (654/1143) of invasive tumours were high grade. In total, 32.9% were luminal A-like, 42.4% luminal B-like, 8.3% HER2-enriched, and 16.4% triple-negative. Among different age groups, there were no differences in molecular phenotype, stage, grade or histopathology. 11% (131) of tumours were from BRCA mutation carriers; 64.1% BRCA1 (63.1% triple-negative), and 35.9% BRCA2 (55.3% luminal B-like). DISCUSSION The opportunity to provide comparisons across young age groups, BRCA mutation status, surrogate molecular phenotype, and the identification of more aggressive hormone receptor-positive phenotypes in this population provides direction for future work to further understand and improve disparate outcomes for young women with luminal B-like cancers, particularly BRCA2-associated cancers, with potential implications for tailored prevention and treatment.
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Kim H, Moon WK. Histological Findings of Mammary Gland Development and Risk of Breast Cancer in BRCA1 Mutant Mouse Models. J Breast Cancer 2021; 24:455-462. [PMID: 34652081 PMCID: PMC8561134 DOI: 10.4048/jbc.2021.24.e44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The breast cancer susceptibility gene, BRCA1, is involved in normal development and carcinogenesis of mammary glands. Here, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between histological findings of mammary gland development and breast cancer risk in BRCA1 mutant mice. Methods Five BRCA1 mutant mice and five non-mutant FVB/NJ mice were used for each group of 1-month-old (pubertal), 3-month-old (fertile), and 8-month-old (menopausal) mice. In another experiment, 15 BRCA1 mutant mice were followed up to 8 months after birth and classified into tumor-bearing (11 mice) and tumor-free (4 mice) groups. Excised mammary gland tissues were stained with Carmine Alum, and the number of terminal end buds (or alveolar buds), branching density, and duct elongation were measured using image analysis programs. Differences between the two groups were assessed using paired t-test. Results One-month-old BRCA1 mutant mice showed a higher number of terminal end buds (23.8 ± 1.0 vs. 15.6 ± 0.8, p = 0.0002), branching density (11.7 ± 0.4 vs. 9.6 ± 0.5%, p = 0.0082), and duct elongation (9.7 ± 0.7 vs. 7.3 ± 0.4 mm, p = 0.0186) than controls. However, there was no difference between the 3- and 8-month-old groups. In BRCA1 mutant mice, the tumor-bearing group showed a significantly higher number of alveolar buds (142.7 ± 5.5 vs. 105.5 ± 5.4, p = 0.0008) and branching density (30.0 ± 1.0 vs. 24.1 ± 1.1%, p = 0.008) than the tumor-free group; however, duct elongation was not different (23.9 ± 0.6 vs. 23.6 ± 0.6 mm, p = 0.8099) between the groups. Conclusion BRCA1 mutant mice exhibited early pubertal mammary gland development and delayed age-related mammary gland involution was associated with breast cancer. Our results may have clinical implications for predicting breast cancer risk and developing prevention strategies for BRCA1 mutation carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyelim Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woo Kyung Moon
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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The Roadmap of RANKL/RANK Pathway in Cancer. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081978. [PMID: 34440747 PMCID: PMC8393235 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The receptor activator of the nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)/RANK signaling pathway was identified in the late 1990s and is the key mediator of bone remodeling. Targeting RANKL with the antibody denosumab is part of the standard of care for bone loss diseases, including bone metastases (BM). Over the last decade, evidence has implicated RANKL/RANK pathway in hormone and HER2-driven breast carcinogenesis and in the acquisition of molecular and phenotypic traits associated with breast cancer (BCa) aggressiveness and poor prognosis. This marked a new era in the research of the therapeutic use of RANKL inhibition in BCa. RANKL/RANK pathway is also an important immune mediator, with anti-RANKL therapy recently linked to improved response to immunotherapy in melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This review summarizes and discusses the pre-clinical and clinical evidence of the relevance of the RANKL/RANK pathway in cancer biology and therapeutics, focusing on bone metastatic disease, BCa onset and progression, and immune modulation.
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Mansfield CA, Metcalfe KA, Snyder C, Lindeman GJ, Posner J, Friedman S, Lynch HT, Narod SA, Evans DG, Liede A. Preferences for breast cancer prevention among women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. Hered Cancer Clin Pract 2020; 18:20. [PMID: 33014209 PMCID: PMC7526374 DOI: 10.1186/s13053-020-00152-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation have high lifetime risks of developing breast and ovarian cancer. The decision to embark on risk reduction strategies is a difficult and personal one. We surveyed an international group of women with BRCA mutations and measured choices and sequence of breast cancer risk reduction strategies. Methods Women with a BRCA1/2 mutation and no previous cancer diagnosis were recruited from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and from a national advocacy group. Using an online survey, we asked about cancer-risk reduction preferences including for one of two hypothetical medicines, randomly assigned, and women’s recommendations for a hypothetical woman (Susan, either a 25- or 36-year-old). Sunburst diagrams were generated to illustrate hierarchy of choices. Results Among 598 respondents, mean age was 40.9 years (range 25–55 years). Timing of the survey was 4.8 years (mean) after learning their positive test result and 33% had risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (RRBSO) and bilateral mastectomy (RRBM), while 19% had RRBSO only and 16% had RRBM only. Although 30% said they would take a hypothetical medicine, 6% reported taking a medicine resembling tamoxifen. Respondents were 1.5 times more likely to select a hypothetical medicine for risk reduction when Susan was 25 than when Susan was 36. Women assigned to 36-year-old Susan were more likely to choose a medicine if they had a family member diagnosed with breast cancer and personal experience taking tamoxifen. Conclusions Women revealed a willingness to undergo surgeries to achieve largest reduction in breast cancer risk, although this would not be recommended for a younger woman in her 20s. The goal of achieving the highest degree of cancer risk reduction is the primary driver for women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations in selecting an intervention and a sequence of interventions, regardless of whether it is non-surgical or surgical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol A Mansfield
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, 3040 Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Durham, NC 27709-12194 USA
| | - Kelly A Metcalfe
- Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Carrie Snyder
- Creighton University, Omaha, NE USA.,CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center, Omaha, NE USA
| | - Geoffrey J Lindeman
- The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia.,Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC Australia.,The Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC Australia.,The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC Australia
| | - Joshua Posner
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, 3040 Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Durham, NC 27709-12194 USA
| | - Sue Friedman
- Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE) Advocacy Organization, Tampa, Florida USA
| | | | | | - Steven A Narod
- Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - D Gareth Evans
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, MAHSC, Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Cen C, Chun J, Schnabel F. Management of women at increased risk for breast cancer secondary to high-risk proliferative lesions and family history of the disease. Breast J 2020; 26:1543-1548. [PMID: 32741042 DOI: 10.1111/tbj.13964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Women with breast biopsies showing high-risk proliferative lesions such as atypical hyperplasia (AH) and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Other factors including age, family history of breast cancer, and extent of AH may play a role in increasing breast cancer risk. In addition to women with AH, there is a subset of women with a positive family history of breast cancer, without a known germline mutation, which places them also at an increased risk for breast cancer. Clinical management, screening, chemoprevention, and surgical risk-reduction are discussed in this review to inform the management of these high-risk women. Advanced imaging technology, pharmacologic research into different targets, and innovations in breast reconstruction are changing the way in which patients are counseled of their individual risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Cen
- Department of Surgery, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Chun
- Department of Surgery, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Freya Schnabel
- Department of Surgery, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
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Davaadelger B, Choi MR, Singhal H, Clare SE, Khan SA, Kim JJ. BRCA1 mutation influences progesterone response in human benign mammary organoids. Breast Cancer Res 2019; 21:124. [PMID: 31771627 PMCID: PMC6878650 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-019-1214-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Women, who carry a germline BRCA1 gene mutation, have a markedly increased risk of developing breast cancer during their lifetime. While BRCA1 carriers frequently develop triple-negative, basal-like, aggressive breast tumors, hormone signaling is important in the genesis of BRCA1 mutant breast cancers. We investigated the hormone response in BRCA1-mutated benign breast tissue using an in vitro organoid system. Methods Scaffold-free, multicellular human breast organoids generated from benign breast tissues from non-carrier or BRCA1 mutation carriers were treated in vitro with a stepwise menstrual cycle hormone regimen of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) over the course of 28 days. Results Breast organoids exhibited characteristics of the native breast tissue, including expression of hormone receptors, collagen production, and markers of luminal and basal epithelium, and stromal fibroblasts. RNA sequencing analysis revealed distinct gene expression in response to hormone treatment in the non-carrier and BRCA1-mutated organoids. The selective progesterone receptor modulator, telapristone acetate (TPA), was used to identify specifically PR regulated genes. Specifically, extracellular matrix organization genes were regulated by E2+P4+TPA in the BRCA1-mutated organoids but not in the non-carrier organoids. In contrast, in the non-carrier organoids, known PR target genes such as the cell cycle genes were inhibited by TPA. Conclusions These data show that BRCA1 mutation influences hormone response and in particular PR activity which differs from that of non-carrier organoids. Our organoid model system revealed important insights into the role of PR in BRCA1-mutated benign breast cells and the critical paracrine actions that modify hormone receptor (HR)-negative cells. Further analysis of the molecular mechanism of BRCA1 and PR crosstalk is warranted using this model system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batzaya Davaadelger
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 4-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Mi-Ran Choi
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hari Singhal
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Susan E Clare
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Seema A Khan
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - J Julie Kim
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 4-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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15
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Kotsopoulos J, Hall E, Finch A, Hu H, Murphy J, Rosen B, Narod SA, Cheung AM. Changes in Bone Mineral Density After Prophylactic Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy in Carriers of a BRCA Mutation. JAMA Netw Open 2019; 2:e198420. [PMID: 31390031 PMCID: PMC6686775 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.8420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Preventive surgery is strongly recommended for individuals with a BRCA mutation at a young age to prevent ovarian cancer and improve overall survival. The overall effect of early surgical menopause on various health outcomes, including bone health, has not been clearly elucidated. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association of prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy with bone mineral density (BMD) loss among individuals with a BRCA mutation. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This retrospective cohort study of participants with a BRCA mutation who underwent oophorectomy through the University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, recruited participants from January 2000 to May 2013. Eligibility criteria included having a BRCA mutation, at least 1 ovary intact prior to surgery, and no history of any cancer other than breast cancer. Bone mineral density was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry before and after surgery. Data analysis began in December 2018 and finished in January 2019. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The annual change in BMD from baseline to follow-up was calculated for the following 3 anatomical locations: (1) lumbar spine, (2) femoral neck, and (3) total hip. RESULTS A total of 95 women had both a baseline and postsurgery BMD measurement with a mean (SD) follow-up period of 22.0 (12.7) months. The mean (SD) age at oophorectomy was 48.0 (7.4) years. Among women who were premenopausal at time of surgery (50 [53%]), there was a decrease in BMD from baseline to follow-up across the lumbar spine (annual change, -3.45%; 95% CI, -4.61% to -2.29%), femoral neck (annual change, -2.85%; 95% CI, -3.79% to -1.91%), and total hip (annual change, -2.24%; 95% CI, -3.11% to -1.38%). Self-reported hormone therapy use was associated with significantly less bone loss at the lumbar spine (-2.00% vs -4.69%; P = .02) and total hip (-1.38% vs -3.21; P = .04) compared with no hormone therapy use. Among postmenopausal women at time of surgery (45 [47%]), there was also a significant decrease in BMD across the lumbar spine (annual change, -0.82%; 95% CI, -1.42% to -0.23%) and femoral neck (annual change, -0.68%; 95% CI, -1.33% to -0.04%) but not total hip (annual change, -0.18%; 95% CI, -0.82% to 0.46%). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This study found that oophorectomy was associated with postoperative bone loss, especially among women who were premenopausal at the time of surgery. Targeted management strategies should include routine BMD assessment and hormone therapy use to improve management of bone health in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Kotsopoulos
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Hall
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy Finch
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hanxian Hu
- Osteoporosis Program, University Health Network, Centre of Excellence in Skeletal Health Assessment, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joan Murphy
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Barry Rosen
- Osteoporosis Program, University Health Network, Centre of Excellence in Skeletal Health Assessment, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Steven A. Narod
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angela M. Cheung
- Osteoporosis Program, University Health Network, Centre of Excellence in Skeletal Health Assessment, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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16
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Plasma RANKL levels are not associated with breast cancer risk in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers. Oncotarget 2019; 10:2475-2483. [PMID: 31069010 PMCID: PMC6497430 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.26810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Aberrant progesterone/receptor activator of nuclear factor κβ (RANK) signaling has been implicated in BRCA1 breast cancer development. Furthermore, lower circulating RANKL has been reported among women with a BRCA mutation compared to non-carriers; however, there have been no reports of plasma RANKL levels and subsequent breast cancer risk. We prospectively evaluated the relationship between plasma RANKL and breast cancer risk among women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. Methods An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to quantify plasma RANKL levels in 184 BRCA mutation carriers. Women were stratified into high vs. low RANKL based on the median levels of the cohort (5.24 pg/ml). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to estimate the cumulative incidence of breast cancer by baseline plasma RANKL and cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between plasma RANKL and risk. Results Over a mean follow-up of 6.3 years (0.02-19.24), 15 incident breast cancers were identified. The eight-year cumulative incidence was 10% in the low RANKL group and 12% in the high RANKL group (P-log-rank = 0.85). There was no significant association between plasma RANKL levels and breast cancer risk (multivariate HR high vs. low = 1.06; 95%CI 0.34-3.28; P-trend = 0.86). Conclusions These findings suggest that circulating RANKL levels are not associated with breast cancer among BRCA mutation carriers. Pending validation in a larger sample, these findings suggest that RANKL is likely not a biomarker of breast cancer risk among BRCA mutation carriers.
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17
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Furth PA. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma and BRCA1. Endocr Relat Cancer 2019; 26:R73-R79. [PMID: 30444720 PMCID: PMC6494719 DOI: 10.1530/erc-18-0449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists have been proposed as breast cancer preventives. Individuals who carry a mutated copy of BRCA1, DNA repair-associated gene, are at increased risk for development of breast cancer. Published data in the field suggest there could be interactions between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma and BRCA1 that could influence the activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists for prevention. This review explores these possible interactions between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists and BRCA1 and discusses feasible experimental directions to provide more definitive information on the potential connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla A Furth
- Departments of Oncology and Medicine, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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18
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The RANK-RANKL axis: an opportunity for drug repurposing in cancer? Clin Transl Oncol 2019; 21:977-991. [PMID: 30656607 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-018-02023-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Drug repurposing offers advantages over traditional drug development in terms of cost, speed and improved patient outcomes. The receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B (RANK) ligand (RANKL) inhibitor denosumab is approved for the prevention of skeletal-related events in patients with advanced malignancies involving bone, including solid tumours and multiple myeloma. Following improved understanding of the role of RANK/RANKL in cancer biology, denosumab has already been repurposed as a treatment for giant cell tumour of bone. Here, we review the role of RANK/RANKL in tumourigenesis, including effects on tumour initiation, progression and metastasis and consider the impact of RANK/RANKL on tumour immunology and immune evasion. Finally, we look briefly at ongoing trials and future opportunities for therapeutic synergy when combining denosumab with anti-cancer agents such as immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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19
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Campbell AM, Morris M, Gallagher R, Boyd R, Carson H, Harkin DP, Wielogorska E, Elliott C, Savage KI, McIntosh SA. Chemoprevention in BRCA1 mutation carriers (CIBRAC): protocol for an open allocation crossover feasibility trial assessing mechanisms of chemoprevention with goserelin and anastrozole versus tamoxifen and acceptability of treatment. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e023115. [PMID: 30580266 PMCID: PMC6318512 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION BRCA1 mutation carriers have a significant lifetime risk of breast cancer, with their primary risk-reduction option being bilateral mastectomy. Preclinical work from our laboratory demonstrated that in BRCA1-deficient breast cells, oestrogen and its metabolites are capable of driving DNA damage and subsequent genomic instability, which are well-defined early events in BRCA1-related cancers. Based on this, we hypothesise that a chemopreventive approach which reduces circulating oestrogen levels may reduce DNA damage and genomic instability, thereby providing an alternative to risk-reducing surgery. METHODS AND ANALYSIS 12 premenopausal women with pathogenic BRCA1 mutations and no previous risk-reducing surgery will be recruited from family history clinics. Participants will be allocated 1:1 to two arms. All will undergo baseline breast biopsies, blood and urine sampling, and quality of life questionnaires. Group A will receive goserelin 3.6 mg/28 days by subcutaneous injection, plus oral anastrozole 1 mg/day, for 12 weeks. Group B will receive oral tamoxifen 20 mg/day for 12 weeks. Following treatment, both groups will provide repeat biopsies, blood and urine samples, and questionnaires. Following a 1-month washout period, the groups will cross over, group A receiving tamoxifen and group B goserelin and anastrozole for a further 12 weeks. After treatment, biopsies, blood and urine samples, and questionnaires will be repeated. DNA damage will be assessed in core biopsies, while blood and urine samples will be used to measure oestrogen metabolite and DNA adduct levels. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has ethical approval from the Office for Research Ethics Committees Northern Ireland (16/NI/0055) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) (reference: 32485/0032/001-0001). The investigational medicinal products used in this trial are licensed and in common use, with well-documented safety information. Dissemination of results will be via high-impact journals and relevant national/international conferences. A copy of the results will be offered to the participants and be made available to patient support groups. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER EudraCT: 2016-001087-11; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aideen M Campbell
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Melanie Morris
- Northern Ireland Cancer Trials Network, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, UK
| | - Rebecca Gallagher
- Northern Ireland Cancer Trials Network, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, UK
| | - Ruth Boyd
- Northern Ireland Cancer Trials Network, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, UK
| | | | - D Paul Harkin
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Christopher Elliott
- Institute for Global Food Security, Advanced ASSET Centre, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Kienan I Savage
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Stuart A McIntosh
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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20
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Giannakeas V, Cadarette SM, Ban JK, Lipscombe L, Narod SA, Kotsopoulos J. Denosumab and breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women: a population-based cohort study. Br J Cancer 2018; 119:1421-1427. [PMID: 30420611 PMCID: PMC6265331 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-018-0225-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Denosumab inhibits the receptor activator of nuclear factor κB (RANK) pathway and is used to treat osteoporosis. Emerging evidence suggests RANK-blockade may play a role in mammary tumourigenesis. Thus, we undertook a population-based study of denosumab use and breast cancer risk in a large cohort of postmenopausal women. METHODS We included women 67+ years with prior bisphosphonate use who filled a first prescription for denosumab. They were matched on age, date, cumulative prior use of and time since last use of a bisphosphonate to women with no history of denosumab. Cox proportional hazards was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) of breast cancer with denosumab use. RESULTS A total of 100,368 women were included in the analysis with 1271 incident breast cancer events. Denosumab use was associated with a 13% decreased breast cancer risk (HR = 0.87; 95% CI 0.76-1.00). There was no relationship between increasing number of denosumab doses and breast cancer risk (P-trend = 0.15). CONCLUSION These findings suggest a potential protective effect of ever denosumab use on breast cancer risk in a cohort of older women previously treated with bisphosphonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasily Giannakeas
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Suzanne M Cadarette
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joann K Ban
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lorraine Lipscombe
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Steven A Narod
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joanne Kotsopoulos
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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21
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Ahern E, Smyth MJ, Dougall WC, Teng MWL. Roles of the RANKL–RANK axis in antitumour immunity — implications for therapy. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2018; 15:676-693. [DOI: 10.1038/s41571-018-0095-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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22
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Cuyàs E, Corominas-Faja B, Martín MMS, Martin-Castillo B, Lupu R, Brunet J, Bosch-Barrera J, Menendez JA. BRCA1 haploinsufficiency cell-autonomously activates RANKL expression and generates denosumab-responsive breast cancer-initiating cells. Oncotarget 2018; 8:35019-35032. [PMID: 28388533 PMCID: PMC5471031 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16558] [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: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Denosumab, a monoclonal antibody to the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL), might be a novel preventative therapy for BRCA1-mutation carriers at high risk of developing breast cancer. Beyond its well-recognized bone-targeted activity impeding osteoclastogenesis, denosumab has been proposed to interfere with the cross-talk between RANKL-producing sensor cells and cancer-initiating RANK+ responder cells that reside within premalignant tissues of BRCA1-mutation carriers. We herein tested the alternative but not mutually exclusive hypothesis that BRCA1 deficiency might cell-autonomously activate RANKL expression to generate cellular states with cancer stem cell (CSC)-like properties. Using isogenic pairs of normal-like human breast epithelial cells in which the inactivation of a single BRCA1 allele results in genomic instability, we assessed the impact of BRCA1 haploinsufficiency on the expression status of RANK and RANKL. RANK expression remained unaltered but RANKL was dramatically up-regulated in BRCA1mut/+ haploinsufficient cells relative to isogenic BRCA1+/+ parental cells. Neutralizing RANKL with denosumab significantly abrogated the ability of BRCA1 haploinsufficient cells to survive and proliferate as floating microtumors or "mammospheres" under non-adherent/non-differentiating conditions, an accepted surrogate of the relative proportion and survival of CSCs. Intriguingly, CSC-like states driven by epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition or HER2 overexpression traits responded to some extent to denosumab. We propose that breast epithelium-specific mono-allelic inactivation of BRCA1 might suffice to cell-autonomously generate RANKL-addicted, denosumab-responsive CSC-like states. The convergent addiction to a hyperactive RANKL/RANK axis of CSC-like states from genetically diverse breast cancer subtypes might inaugurate a new era of cancer prevention and treatment based on denosumab as a CSC-targeted agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabet Cuyàs
- Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Metabolism and Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.,Molecular Oncology Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), Girona, Spain
| | - Bruna Corominas-Faja
- Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Metabolism and Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.,Molecular Oncology Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), Girona, Spain
| | - María Muñoz-San Martín
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), Girona, Spain
| | - Begoña Martin-Castillo
- Molecular Oncology Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), Girona, Spain.,Unit of Clinical Research, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Ruth Lupu
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, Rochester, MN, USA.,Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Joan Brunet
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.,Department of Medical Sciences, Medical School, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Joaquim Bosch-Barrera
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.,Department of Medical Sciences, Medical School, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Javier A Menendez
- Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Metabolism and Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.,Molecular Oncology Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), Girona, Spain
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Physical activity during adolescence and young adulthood and the risk of breast cancer in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2018; 169:561-571. [PMID: 29404807 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-018-4694-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity is inversely associated with the risk of breast cancer among women in the general population. It is not clear whether or not physical activity is associated with the risk of BRCA-associated breast cancer. METHODS We conducted a case-control study of 443 matched pairs of BRCA mutation carriers to evaluate the association between physical activity and breast cancer risk. Moderate and vigorous physical activities at ages 12-13, ages 14-17, ages 18-22, ages 23-29 and ages 30-34 were determined using the Nurses' Health Study II Physical Activity Questionnaire. We estimated mean metabolic equivalent task hours/week for moderate, vigorous and total physical activities overall (ages 12-34), during adolescence (ages 12-17) and during early adulthood (ages 18-34). Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for total, moderate and strenuous recreational physical activities and breast cancer risk, by menopausal status. RESULTS Overall, there was no significant association between total physical activity and subsequent breast cancer risk (ORQ4 vs. Q1 = 1.01, 95% CI 0.69-1.47; P-trend = 0.72). Moderate physical activity between ages 12-17 was associated with a 38% decreased risk of premenopausal breast cancer (ORQ4 vs. Q1 = 0.62; 95% CI 0.40-0.96; P-trend = 0.01). We found no association between exercise and breast cancer diagnosed after menopause. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that early-life physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of premenopausal breast cancer among BRCA mutation carriers. IMPACT Future prospective analyses, complemented by mechanistic evidence, are warranted in this high-risk population.
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Cuyàs E, Martin-Castillo B, Bosch-Barrera J, Menendez JA. Metformin inhibits RANKL and sensitizes cancer stem cells to denosumab. Cell Cycle 2017; 16:1022-1028. [PMID: 28387573 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2017.1310353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The increased propensity of BRCA1 mutation carriers to develop aggressive breast tumors with stem-like properties begins to be understood in terms of osteoprotegerin (OPG)-unrestricted cross-talk between RANKL-overproducing progesterone-sensor cells and cancer-initiating RANK+ responder cells that reside within pre-malignant BRCA1mut/+ breast epithelial tissue. We recently proposed that, in the absence of hormone influence, cancer-initiating cells might remain responsive to RANKL stimulation, and hence to the therapeutic effects of the anti-RANKL antibody denosumab because genomic instability induced by BRCA1 haploinsufficiency might suffice to cell-autonomously hyperactivate RANKL gene expression. Here we report that the biguanide metformin prevents BRCA1 haploinsufficiency-driven RANKL gene overexpression, thereby disrupting an auto-regulatory feedback control of RANKL-addicted cancer stem cell-like states within BRCA1mut/- cell populations. Moreover, metformin treatment elicits a synergistic decline in the breast cancer-initiating cell population and its self-renewal capacity in BRCA1-mutated basal-like breast cancer cells with bone metastasis-initiation capacity that exhibit primary resistance to denosumab in mammosphere assays. The specific targeting of RANKL/RANK signaling with denosumab is expected to revolutionize prevention and treatment strategies currently available for BRCA1 mutation carriers. Our findings provide a rationale for new denosumab/metformin combinatorial strategies to clinically manage RANKL-related breast oncogenesis and metastatic progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabet Cuyàs
- a Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance(ProCURE) , Metabolism and Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology , Girona, Catalonia , Spain.,b Molecular Oncology Group , Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI) , Girona , Spain
| | | | - Joaquim Bosch-Barrera
- d Deparment of Medical Oncology , Catalan Institute of Oncology , Girona, Catalonia , Spain.,e Department of Medical Sciences , Medical School, University of Girona , Girona , Spain
| | - Javier A Menendez
- a Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance(ProCURE) , Metabolism and Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology , Girona, Catalonia , Spain.,b Molecular Oncology Group , Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI) , Girona , Spain
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