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Miranda RL, Guterres A, de Azeredo Lima CH, Lamback E, Gadelha MR. Novel Drop-off PCR Assay for USP8 Hotspot Variant Detection in Corticotroph Tumors. Endocr Pathol 2024; 35:269-271. [PMID: 39230646 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-024-09825-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Renan Lyra Miranda
- Neuropathology and Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Instituto Estadual Do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Alexandro Guterres
- Neuropathology and Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Instituto Estadual Do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Elisa Lamback
- Neuropathology and Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Instituto Estadual Do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Instituto Estadual Do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Neuroendocrinology Research Center/Endocrinology Division, Medical School and Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mônica R Gadelha
- Neuropathology and Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Instituto Estadual Do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Instituto Estadual Do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Neuroendocrinology Research Center/Endocrinology Division, Medical School and Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Durmuş ET, Kefeli M, Mete O, Çalışkan S, Aslan K, Onar MA, Çolak R, Durmuş B, Cokluk C, Atmaca A. Granulation Patterns of Functional Corticotroph Tumors Correlate with Tumor Size, Proliferative Activity, T2 Intensity-to-White Matter Ratio, and Postsurgical Early Biochemical Remission. Endocr Pathol 2024; 35:185-193. [PMID: 39046680 PMCID: PMC11387444 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-024-09819-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Unlike somatotroph tumors, the data on correlates of tumor granulation patterns in functional TPIT lineage pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (corticotroph tumors) have been less uniformly documented in most clinical series. This study evaluated characteristics of 41 well-characterized functional corticotroph tumors consisting of 28 densely granulated corticotroph tumors (DGCTs) and 13 sparsely granulated corticotroph tumors (SGCTs) with respect to preoperative clinical and radiological findings, tumor proliferative activity (including mitotic count and Ki-67 labeling index), and postoperative early biochemical remission rates. The median (interquartile range (IQR)) tumor size was significantly larger in the SGCT group [16.00 (16.00) mm in SGCT vs 8.5 (9.75) mm in DGCT, p = 0.049]. T2-weighted signal intensity and T2 intensity (quantitative) did not yield statistical significance based on tumor granulation; however, the T2 intensity-to-white matter ratio was significantly higher in SGCTs (p = 0.049). The median (IQR) Ki-67 labeling index was 2.00% (IQR 1.00%) in the DGCT group and 4.00% (IQR 7.00%) in the SGCT group (p = 0.043). The mitotic count per 2 mm2 was higher in the SGCT group (p = 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the sparse granulation pattern (SGCT) remained an independent predictor of a lower probability of early biochemical remission irrespective of the tumor size and proliferative activity (p = 0.012). The current study further supports the impact of tumor granulation pattern as a biologic variable and warrants the detailed histological subtyping of functional corticotroph tumors as indicated in the WHO classification of pituitary neuroendocrine tumors. More importantly, the assessment of the quantitative T2 intensity-to-white matter ratio may serve as a preoperative radiological harbinger of SGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Tutku Durmuş
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55200, Atakum Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Kefeli
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Mete
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, 200 Elizabeth Street, 11 Floor, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
- Endocrine Oncology Site Group, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sultan Çalışkan
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Kerim Aslan
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Arda Onar
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ramis Çolak
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55200, Atakum Samsun, Turkey
| | - Buğra Durmuş
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55200, Atakum Samsun, Turkey
| | - Cengiz Cokluk
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ayşegül Atmaca
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55200, Atakum Samsun, Turkey
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3
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De Leo A, Ruscelli M, Maloberti T, Coluccelli S, Repaci A, de Biase D, Tallini G. Molecular pathology of endocrine gland tumors: genetic alterations and clinicopathologic relevance. Virchows Arch 2024; 484:289-319. [PMID: 38108848 PMCID: PMC10948534 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-023-03713-4] [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: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Tumors of the endocrine glands are common. Knowledge of their molecular pathology has greatly advanced in the recent past. This review covers the main molecular alterations of tumors of the anterior pituitary, thyroid and parathyroid glands, adrenal cortex, and adrenal medulla and paraganglia. All endocrine gland tumors enjoy a robust correlation between genotype and phenotype. High-throughput molecular analysis demonstrates that endocrine gland tumors can be grouped into molecular groups that are relevant from both pathologic and clinical point of views. In this review, genetic alterations have been discussed and tabulated with respect to their molecular pathogenetic role and clinicopathologic implications, addressing the use of molecular biomarkers for the purpose of diagnosis and prognosis and predicting response to molecular therapy. Hereditary conditions that play a key role in determining predisposition to many types of endocrine tumors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio De Leo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Ruscelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Thais Maloberti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sara Coluccelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Repaci
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy.
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy.
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4
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Tapoi DA, Popa ML, Tanase C, Derewicz D, Gheorghișan-Gălățeanu AA. Role of Tumor Microenvironment in Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors: New Approaches in Classification, Diagnosis and Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5301. [PMID: 37958474 PMCID: PMC10649263 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15215301] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenohypophysal pituitary tumors account for 10-15% of all intracranial tumors, and 25-55% display signs of invasiveness. Nevertheless, oncology still relies on histopathological examination to establish the diagnosis. Considering that the classification of pituitary tumors has changed significantly in recent years, we discuss the definition of aggressive and invasive tumors and the latest molecular criteria used for classifying these entities. The pituitary tumor microenvironment (TME) is essential for neoplastic development and progression. This review aims to reveal the impact of TME characteristics on stratifying these tumors in view of finding appropriate therapeutic approaches. The role of the pituitary tumor microenvironment and its main components, non-tumoral cells and soluble factors, has been addressed. The variable display of different immune cell types, tumor-associated fibroblasts, and folliculostellate cells is discussed in relation to tumor development and aggressiveness. The molecules secreted by both tumoral and non-tumoral cells, such as VEGF, FGF, EGF, IL6, TNFα, and immune checkpoint molecules, contribute to the crosstalk between the tumor and its microenvironment. They could be considered potential biomarkers for diagnosis and the invasiveness of these tumors, together with emerging non-coding RNA molecules. Therefore, assessing this complex network associated with pituitary neuroendocrine tumors could bring a new era in diagnosing and treating this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Antonia Tapoi
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Pathology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria-Linda Popa
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Cristiana Tanase
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Cell Biology and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Titu Maiorescu University, 031593 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Diana Derewicz
- Department of Pediatrics, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Marie Sklodowska Curie Clinical Emergency Hospital, 041447 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ancuța-Augustina Gheorghișan-Gălățeanu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology, 011863 Bucharest, Romania
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5
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Taghavi SF, Ghorbani M, Panahi M, Nazem S, Karimi M, Salimi V, Tavakoli-Yaraki M. Differential expression levels of β-catenin are associated with invasive behavior of both functional and non-functional pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET). Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:6425-6434. [PMID: 37326745 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08523-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although research continues to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying pituitary tumor pathogenesis, limited information is available on the potential role and expression profile of β-catenin in functional and non-functional pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs). METHODS AND RESULTS In the current study, 104 pituitary samples (tumors and cadaveric healthy pituitary tissues) were included and the gene and protein expression levels of β-catenin were assessed by Real-Time PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The correlation between expression level of β-catenin and tumor invasive feature and size as well as patient age, gender, and hormonal level was measured. The data showed that PitNET samples expressed higher levels of the β-catenin gene and protein compared to healthy pituitary tissues. Although there was no difference in β-catenin expression level between non-functioning (NF-PitNETs) and growth hormone-producing tumors (GH-PitNETs), both tumor types showed significantly elevated β-catenin levels compared to healthy pituitary tissues. The high level of β-catenin in the invasive functional and non-functional tumors is indicative of the association of β-catenin with PitNETs invasion. The expression pattern of the β-catenin gene and protein was consistently and significantly associated with these tumor types. The correlation between β-catenin and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in GH-PitNETs indicates the potential relevance of β-catenin and IGF-1 for GH-PitNETs. CONCLUSIONS The simultaneous increase in the expression of β-catenin gene and protein level in PitNET tissues and their relationship to the tumor severity indicates the possible contributing role of β-catenin and its underlying signaling mediators in PitNET pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fahimeh Taghavi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1449614535, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ghorbani
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Neurosurgery, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahshid Panahi
- Pathology Department, Firozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shima Nazem
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Milad Karimi
- Department of Immunology, School of medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Salimi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Tavakoli-Yaraki
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1449614535, Tehran, Iran.
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6
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Bian Y, Hahn H, Uhmann A. The hidden hedgehog of the pituitary: hedgehog signaling in development, adulthood and disease of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1219018. [PMID: 37476499 PMCID: PMC10355329 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1219018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog signaling plays pivotal roles in embryonic development, adult homeostasis and tumorigenesis. However, its engagement in the pituitary gland has been long underestimated although Hedgehog signaling and pituitary embryogenic development are closely linked. Thus, deregulation of this signaling pathway during pituitary development results in malformation of the gland. Research of the last years further implicates a regulatory role of Hedgehog signaling in the function of the adult pituitary, because its activity is also interlinked with homeostasis, hormone production, and most likely also formation of neoplasms of the gland. The fact that this pathway can be efficiently targeted by validated therapeutic strategies makes it a promising candidate for treating pituitary diseases. We here summarize the current knowledge about the importance of Hedgehog signaling during pituitary development and review recent data that highlight the impact of Hedgehog signaling in the healthy and the diseased adult pituitary gland.
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7
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Abstract
Hereditary pituitary tumorigenesis is seen in a relatively small proportion (around 5%) of patients with pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs). The aim of the current review is to describe the main clinical and molecular features of such pituitary tumors associated with hereditary or familial characteristics, many of which have now been genetically identified. The genetic patterns of inheritance are classified into isolated familial PitNETs and the syndromic tumors. In general, the established genetic causes of familial tumorigenesis tend to present at a younger age, often pursue a more aggressive course, and are more frequently associated with growth hormone hypersecretion compared to sporadic tumors. The mostly studied molecular pathways implicated are the protein kinase A and phosphatidyl-inositol pathways, which are in the main related to mutations in the syndromes of familial isolated pituitary adenoma (FIPA), Carney complex syndrome, and X-linked acrogigantism. Another well-documented mechanism consists of the regulation of p27 or p21 proteins, with further acceleration of the pituitary cell cycle through the check points G1/S and M/G1, mostly documented in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 4. In conclusion, PitNETs may occur in relation to well-established familial germline mutations which may determine the clinical phenotype and the response to treatment, and may require family screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Armeni
- Dept. of Endocrinology, Royal Free Hospital, London, NW3 2QG, UK.
| | - Ashley Grossman
- Dept. of Endocrinology, Royal Free Hospital, London, NW3 2QG, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine, London, UK
- Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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8
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Gheorghișan-Gălățeanu AA, Ilieșiu A, Lambrescu IM, Țăpoi DA. The Complex Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Spectrum of Neuroendocrine Tumors-An Overview of the Latest Classifications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:1418. [PMID: 36674939 PMCID: PMC9863618 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) originate from the neuroendocrine cell system, which may either take the shape of organoid cell aggregations or be composed of dispersed cells across various organs. Therefore, these tumors are heterogenous regarding the site of origin, functional status, degree of aggressiveness, and prognosis. When treating patients with neuroendocrine tumors, one of the most significant challenges for physicians is determining the correct tumor grade and thus classifying patients into risk categories. Over the years, the classification of these tumors has changed significantly, often causing confusion due to clinical, molecular, and immunohistochemical variability. This review aims to outline the latest NENs classifications regardless of their site of origin. Thus, an overview of the key histopathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of NENs could pave the way to validate possible predictive and prognostic markers and also guide the therapeutic conduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ancuța-Augustina Gheorghișan-Gălățeanu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology, 011863 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Ilieșiu
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Maria Lambrescu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dana Antonia Țăpoi
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
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9
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Alzoubi H, Minasi S, Gianno F, Antonelli M, Belardinilli F, Giangaspero F, Jaffrain-Rea ML, Buttarelli FR. Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) and Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Promoter Methylation in Recurrent Adult and Primary Pediatric Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors. Endocr Pathol 2022; 33:494-505. [PMID: 34993885 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-021-09702-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neoplastic cells acquire the ability to proliferate endlessly by maintaining telomeres via telomerase, or alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). The role of telomere maintenance in pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) has yet to be thoroughly investigated. We analyzed surgical samples of 24 adult recurrent PitNETs (including onset and relapses for 14 of them) and 12 pediatric primary PitNETs. The presence of ALT was assessed using telomere-specific fluorescence in situ hybridization, methylation of telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter (TERTp) by methylation-specific PCR, and ATRX expression by immunohistochemistry. Among the adult recurrent PitNETs, we identified 3/24 (12.5%) ALT-positive cases. ALT was present from the onset and maintained in subsequent relapses, suggesting that this mechanism occurs early in tumorigenesis and is stable during progression. ATRX loss was only seen in one ALT-positive case. Noteworthy, ALT was observed in 3 out of 5 aggressive PitNETs, including two aggressive corticotroph tumors, eventually leading to patient's death. ALT-negative tumors (87.5%) were classified according to their low (29.2%), medium (50%), and high (8.3%) telomere fluorescence intensity, with no significant differences emerging in their molecular, clinical, or pathological characteristics. TERTp methylation was found in 6/24 cases (25%), with a total concordance in methylation status between onset and recurrences, suggesting that this mechanism remains stable throughout disease progression. TERTp methylation did not influence telomere length. In the pediatric cohort of PitNETs, TERTp methylation was also observed in 4/12 cases (33.3%), but no case of ALT activation was observed. In conclusion, ALT is triggered at onset and maintained during tumor progression in a subset of adult PitNETs, suggesting that it could be used for clinical purposes, as a potential predictor of aggressive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba Alzoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Simone Minasi
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Gianno
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Manila Antonelli
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Felice Giangaspero
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Marie-Lise Jaffrain-Rea
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Buttarelli
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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Guaraldi F, Morandi L, Zoli M, Mazzatenta D, Righi A, Evangelisti S, Ambrosi F, Tonon C, Giannini C, Lloyd RV, Asioli S. Epigenomic and somatic mutations of pituitary tumors with clinical and pathological correlations in 111 patients. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2022; 97:763-772. [PMID: 36161330 PMCID: PMC9828656 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To profile clinically non-aggressive and aggressive pituitary adenomas (PAs)/pituitary neuroendocrine tumours (PitNETs) and pituitary carcinomas for somatic mutations and epigenetic alterations of genes involved in cell proliferation/differentiation, microRNAs (miRNA)/long noncoding RNA (LncRNA)-post-transcriptional regulators and therapy targets. DESIGN Retrospective observational study. PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS A total of 64 non-aggressive and 41 aggressive PAs/PitNETs and 6 pituitary carcinomas treated by endoscopic surgery with ≥1-year follow-up were included. Somatic mutations of 17 genes and DNA methylation of 22 genes were assessed. Ten normal pituitaries were used as control. RESULTS We found at least one mutation in 17 tumours, including 6/64 non-aggressive, 10/41 aggressive PAs/PitNETs, and 1/6 pituitary carcinoma. AIP (N = 6) was the most frequently mutated gene, followed by NOTCH (4), and TP53 (3). Hypermethylation of PARP15, LINC00599, ZAP70 was more common in aggressive than non-aggressive PAs/PITNETs (p < .05). Lower levels of methylation of AIP, GNAS and PDCD1 were detected in aggressive PAs/PITNETs than non-aggressive ones (p < .05). For X-linked genes, males presented higher level of methylation of FLNA, UXT and MAGE family (MAGEA11, MAGEA1, MAGEC2) genes in aggressive vs. non-aggressive PAs/PITNETs (p < .05). In pituitary carcinomas, methylation of autosomal genes PARP15, LINC00599, MIR193 and ZAP70 was higher than in PAs/PITNETs, while X-linked genes methylation level was lower. CONCLUSIONS Somatic mutations and methylation levels of genes involved in cell proliferation/differentiation, miRNA/LncRNA-post-transcriptional regulators and targets of antineoplastic therapies are different in non-aggressive and in aggressive PAs/PitNETs. Methylation profile also varies according to gender. Combined genetic-epigenetic analysis, in association with clinico-radiological-pathological data, may be of help in predicting PA/PitNET behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luca Morandi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di BolognaBolognaItaly
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM)University of BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Matteo Zoli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di BolognaBolognaItaly
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM)University of BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Diego Mazzatenta
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di BolognaBolognaItaly
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM)University of BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Alberto Righi
- Department of PathologyIRCCS Istituto Ortopedico RizzoliBolognaItaly
| | - Stefania Evangelisti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM)University of BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Francesca Ambrosi
- Dipartimento Interaziendale Anatomia Patologica, Pathology Unit, Maggiore HospitalAUSL BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Caterina Tonon
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di BolognaBolognaItaly
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM)University of BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Caterina Giannini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM)University of BolognaBolognaItaly
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineMayo ClinicRochesterMinnesotaUSA
| | - Ricardo V. Lloyd
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of WisconsinMadisonMichiganUSA
| | - Sofia Asioli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di BolognaBolognaItaly
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM)University of BolognaBolognaItaly
- Dipartimento Interaziendale Anatomia Patologica, Unit of Anatomic PathologyAUSL BolognaBolognaItaly
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11
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Abstract
This review summarizes the changes in the 5th Edition of the WHO Classification of Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Tumors that relate to the pituitary gland. The new classification clearly distinguishes anterior lobe (adenohypophyseal) from posterior lobe (neurohypophyseal) and hypothalamic tumors. Other tumors arising in the sellar region are also discussed. Anterior lobe tumors include (i) well-differentiated adenohypophyseal tumors that are now classified as pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs; formerly known as pituitary adenomas), (ii) pituitary blastoma, and (iii) the two types of craniopharyngioma. The new WHO classification provides detailed histological subtyping of a PitNET based on the tumor cell lineage, cell type, and related characteristics. The routine use of immunohistochemistry for pituitary transcription factors (PIT1, TPIT, SF1, GATA3, and ERα) is endorsed in this classification. The major PIT1, TPIT, and SF1 lineage-defined PitNET types and subtypes feature distinct morphologic, molecular, and clinical differences. The "null cell" tumor, which is a diagnosis of exclusion, is reserved for PitNETs with no evidence of adenohypophyseal lineage differentiation. Unlike the 2017 WHO classification, mammosomatotroph and acidophil stem cell tumors represent distinct PIT1-lineage PitNETs. The diagnostic category of PIT1-positive plurihormonal tumor that was introduced in the 2017 WHO classification is replaced by two clinicopathologically distinct PitNETs: the immature PIT1-lineage tumor (formerly known as silent subtype 3 tumor) and the mature plurihormonal PIT1-lineage tumor. Rare unusual plurihormonal tumors feature multi-lineage differentiation. The importance of recognizing multiple synchronous PitNETs is emphasized to avoid misclassification. The term "metastatic PitNET" is advocated to replace the previous terminology "pituitary carcinoma" in order to avoid confusion with neuroendocrine carcinoma (a poorly differentiated epithelial neuroendocrine neoplasm). Subtypes of PitNETs that are associated with a high risk of adverse biology are emphasized within their cell lineage and cell type as well as based on clinical variables. Posterior lobe tumors, the family of pituicyte tumors, include the traditional pituicytoma, the oncocytic form (spindle cell oncocytoma), the granular cell form (granular cell tumor), and the ependymal type (sellar ependymoma). Although these historical terms are entrenched in the literature, they are nonspecific and confusing, such that oncocytic pituicytoma, granular cell pituicytoma, and ependymal pituicytoma are now proposed as more accurate. Tumors with hypothalamic neuronal differentiation are classified as gangliocytomas or neurocytomas based on large and small cell size, respectively. This classification sets the standard for a high degree of sophistication to allow individualized patient management approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia L Asa
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Ozgur Mete
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Arie Perry
- Departments of Pathology and Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Robert Y Osamura
- Department of Pathology, Nippon Koukan Hospital, Kawasaki and Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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12
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Asa SL, Ezzat S. Pituitary carcinoma: reclassification and implications in the NET schema. ENDOCRINE ONCOLOGY (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2022; 2:R14-R23. [PMID: 37435449 PMCID: PMC10259303 DOI: 10.1530/eo-22-0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
The entity known as pituitary carcinoma has been traditionally defined as a tumor of adenohypophysial cells that metastasizes systemically or craniospinally independent of the histological appearance of the lesion. Reported cases of pituitary carcinoma have clinically and histologically resembled their non-metastatic counterparts that were classified as adenomas; the majority of cases were initially diagnosed as adenomas, and with tumor progression and spread, the diagnosis was changed to carcinoma. This classification has been challenged since the definition of malignancy in most organs is not based only on metastatic spread. The extent of local invasion resulting in an inability to completely resect an adenohypophysial tumor can have serious consequences that can cause harm and are therefore not benign. To address this dilemma, it was proposed that pituitary tumors be classified as neuroendocrine tumors. This change in nomenclature is totally appropriate since these tumors are composed of classical neuroendocrine cells; as with other neuroendocrine tumors, they have variable behavior that can be indolent but can involve metastasis. With the new nomenclature, there is no requirement for a distinction between adenomas and carcinomas. Moreover, the WHO/IARC has provided an overarching classification for neuroendocrine neoplasms at all body sites; in this new classification, the term 'neuroendocrine carcinoma' is reserved for poorly differentiated high-grade malignancies that are clinically, morphologically and genetically distinct from well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors. It remains to be determined if there are true pituitary neuroendocrine carcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia L Asa
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Shereen Ezzat
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Asa SL, Mete O. Single-cell transcriptome and genome analysis: A much-needed tool for pituitary neuroendocrine tumor studies. Neuro Oncol 2021; 23:1803-1804. [PMID: 34480475 PMCID: PMC8563317 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noab205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia L Asa
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ozgur Mete
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Asa SL, Mete O, Cusimano MD, McCutcheon IE, Perry A, Yamada S, Nishioka H, Casar-Borota O, Uccella S, La Rosa S, Grossman AB, Ezzat S. Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors: a model for neuroendocrine tumor classification. Mod Pathol 2021; 34:1634-1650. [PMID: 34017065 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-021-00820-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The classification of adenohypophysial neoplasms as "pituitary neuroendocrine tumors" (PitNETs) was proposed in 2017 to reflect their characteristics as epithelial neuroendocrine neoplasms with a spectrum of clinical behaviors ranging from small indolent lesions to large, locally invasive, unresectable tumors. Tumor growth and hormone hypersecretion cause significant morbidity and mortality in a subset of patients. The proposal was endorsed by a WHO working group that sought to provide a unified approach to neuroendocrine neoplasia in all body sites. We review the features that are characteristic of neuroendocrine cells, the epidemiology and prognosis of these tumors, as well as further refinements in terms used for other pituitary tumors to ensure consistency with the WHO framework. The intense study of PitNETs has provided information about the importance of cellular differentiation in tumor prognosis as a model for neuroendocrine tumors in different locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia L Asa
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Ozgur Mete
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael D Cusimano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saint Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ian E McCutcheon
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Arie Perry
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shozo Yamada
- Hypothalamic and Pituitary Center, Moriyama Neurological Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nishioka
- Department of Hypothalamic and Pituitary Surgery, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Olivera Casar-Borota
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Silvia Uccella
- Department of Pathology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Stefano La Rosa
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ashley B Grossman
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Oxford, London, UK.,Royal Free London, London, UK.,Barts and the London School of Medicine, London, UK.,London Clinic Centre for Endocrinology, London, UK
| | - Shereen Ezzat
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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15
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Molecular, functional, and histopathological classification of the pituitary neuroendocrine neoplasms. Brain Tumor Pathol 2021; 38:183-188. [PMID: 34269950 DOI: 10.1007/s10014-021-00410-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In 2017, WHO published an updated classification of the pituitary adenomas according to the lineages defined by the transcription factors, PIT1, SF1 and TPIT. Nomenclature of the pituitary tumors follows the mature cell types such as somatotroph (GH), lactotroph (LH), thyrotroph, corticotroph, and gonadotroph (FSH, LH). Null cell adenomas are defined by the absence of expression of any hormones and transcription factors. Not infrequently, the pituitary adenomas are invasive to the adjacent structures and are designated as aggressive adenomas. Knosp grading is often used to define the aggressiveness of the tumor. Sparsely granulated somatotroph adenomas and Crooke cell corticotroph adenomas are representative aggressive adenomas. Recently, genomics regarding various adenomas have been clarified, such as GNAS for somatotrophs and USP8 for corticotrophs. Familial pituitary adenomas are another aspect which has been clarified such as MEN1, Carney's complex, familial isolated pituitary adenoma and McCune-Albright syndrome. The pituitary adenomas often produce GH or PRL, hormones of PIT1 transcription factor. It has been agreed that the pituitary adenomas share the characteristics of neuroendocrine neoplasms. The terminology of pituitary neuroendocrine tumor has been discussed. This review article covers various aspects of pituitary adenomas.
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16
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Abstract
Detailed analysis of cytodifferentiation and hormone production has classified pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) in a formal system that reflects the lineage differentiation of nontumorous adenohypophysial cells as well as subtypes of tumors that have predictive value. In addition, tumors composed of cells that lack terminal differentiation are well characterized. To comply with the proposal to create an overarching classification of neuroendocrine neoplasia, these tumors are now called PitNETs rather than adenomas. The next important step will be to relinquish the term "pituitary carcinoma" for metastatic PitNETs that remain well differentiated, and to alter the terminology used for tumors that are not terminally differentiated to reflect only their immature lineage. The existence of mixed neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNENs) similar to those at other body sites is proven by mixed craniopharyngiomas with PitNETs. As with other NETs, these neoplasms should be reported with synoptic data that guide completeness of reporting. A formal system of grading should be created, but not only based on proliferation, as these tumors have shown the prognostic value of cytodifferentiation. A formal system of staging should also be devised to complement grade in the thorough and accurate diagnosis of tumors that arise from adenohypophysial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia L Asa
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
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17
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Mete O. Special Issue on Molecular Pathology of Endocrine Neoplasms: Understanding the Basis of Endocrine Pathology Practice. Endocr Pathol 2021; 32:1-2. [PMID: 33624136 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-021-09670-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ozgur Mete
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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