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Sharma G, Tran TM, Bansal I, Beg MS, Bhardwaj R, Bassi J, Tan Y, Jaiswal AK, Tso C, Jain A, Singh J, Chattopadhyay P, Singh A, Chopra A, Bakhshi S, Casero D, Rao DS, Palanichamy JK. RNA binding protein IGF2BP1 synergizes with ETV6-RUNX1 to drive oncogenic signaling in B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:231. [PMID: 37670323 PMCID: PMC10478443 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02810-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric hematological malignancy, with ETV6::RUNX1 being the most prevalent translocation whose exact pathogenesis remains unclear. IGF2BP1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 Binding Protein 1) is an oncofetal RNA binding protein seen to be specifically overexpressed in ETV6::RUNX1 positive B-ALL. In this study, we have studied the mechanistic role of IGF2BP1 in leukemogenesis and its synergism with the ETV6::RUNX1 fusion protein. METHODS Gene expression was analyzed from patient bone marrow RNA using Real Time RT-qPCR. Knockout cell lines were created using CRISPR-Cas9 based lentiviral vectors. RNA-Seq and RNA Immunoprecipitation sequencing (RIP-Seq) after IGF2BP1 pulldown were performed using the Illumina platform. Mouse experiments were done by retroviral overexpression of donor HSCs followed by lethal irradiation of recipients using a bone marrow transplant model. RESULTS We observed specific overexpression of IGF2BP1 in ETV6::RUNX1 positive patients in an Indian cohort of pediatric ALL (n=167) with a positive correlation with prednisolone resistance. IGF2BP1 expression was essential for tumor cell survival in multiple ETV6::RUNX1 positive B-ALL cell lines. Integrated analysis of transcriptome sequencing after IGF2BP1 knockout and RIP-Seq after IGF2BP1 pulldown in Reh cell line revealed that IGF2BP1 targets encompass multiple pro-oncogenic signalling pathways including TNFα/NFκB and PI3K-Akt pathways. These pathways were also dysregulated in primary ETV6::RUNX1 positive B-ALL patient samples from our center as well as in public B-ALL patient datasets. IGF2BP1 showed binding and stabilization of the ETV6::RUNX1 fusion transcript itself. This positive feedback loop led to constitutive dysregulation of several oncogenic pathways. Enforced co-expression of ETV6::RUNX1 and IGF2BP1 in mouse bone marrow resulted in marrow hypercellularity which was characterized by multi-lineage progenitor expansion and strong Ki67 positivity. This pre-leukemic phenotype confirmed their synergism in-vivo. Clonal expansion of cells overexpressing both ETV6::RUNX1 and IGF2BP1 was clearly observed. These mice also developed splenomegaly indicating extramedullary hematopoiesis. CONCLUSION Our data suggest a combined impact of the ETV6::RUNX1 fusion protein and RNA binding protein, IGF2BP1 in activating multiple oncogenic pathways in B-ALL which makes IGF2BP1 and these pathways as attractive therapeutic targets and biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunjan Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room 4008, Convergence Block, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Tiffany M Tran
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ishu Bansal
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room 4008, Convergence Block, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Mohammad Sabique Beg
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room 4008, Convergence Block, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Ruchi Bhardwaj
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room 4008, Convergence Block, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Jaspal Bassi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yuande Tan
- F. Widjaja Foundation Inflammatory Bowel and Immunobiology Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Amit Kumar Jaiswal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Christine Tso
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ayushi Jain
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room 4008, Convergence Block, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Jay Singh
- Department of Laboratory Oncology, Dr B.R Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Parthaprasad Chattopadhyay
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room 4008, Convergence Block, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Archna Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room 4008, Convergence Block, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Anita Chopra
- Department of Laboratory Oncology, Dr B.R Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sameer Bakhshi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dr B.R Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - David Casero
- F. Widjaja Foundation Inflammatory Bowel and Immunobiology Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Dinesh S Rao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jayanth Kumar Palanichamy
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room 4008, Convergence Block, New Delhi, 110029, India.
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Kodgule R, Goldman JW, Monovich AC, Saari T, Aguilar AR, Hall CN, Rajesh N, Gupta J, Chu SCA, Ye L, Gurumurthy A, Iyer A, Brown NA, Chiang MY, Cieslik MP, Ryan RJ. ETV6 Deficiency Unlocks ERG-Dependent Microsatellite Enhancers to Drive Aberrant Gene Activation in B-Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Blood Cancer Discov 2023; 4:34-53. [PMID: 36350827 PMCID: PMC9820540 DOI: 10.1158/2643-3230.bcd-21-0224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Distal enhancers play critical roles in sustaining oncogenic gene-expression programs. We identify aberrant enhancer-like activation of GGAA tandem repeats as a characteristic feature of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) with genetic defects of the ETV6 transcriptional repressor, including ETV6-RUNX1+ and ETV6-null B-ALL. We show that GGAA repeat enhancers are direct activators of previously identified ETV6-RUNX1+/- like B-ALL "signature" genes, including the likely leukemogenic driver EPOR. When restored to ETV6-deficient B-ALL cells, ETV6 directly binds to GGAA repeat enhancers, represses their acetylation, downregulates adjacent genes, and inhibits B-ALL growth. In ETV6-deficient B-ALL cells, we find that the ETS transcription factor ERG directly binds to GGAA microsatellite enhancers and is required for sustained activation of repeat enhancer-activated genes. Together, our findings reveal an epigenetic gatekeeper function of the ETV6 tumor suppressor gene and establish microsatellite enhancers as a key mechanism underlying the unique gene-expression program of ETV6-RUNX1+/- like B-ALL. SIGNIFICANCE We find a unifying mechanism underlying a leukemia subtype-defining gene-expression signature that relies on repetitive elements with poor conservation between humans and rodents. The ability of ETV6 to antagonize promiscuous, nonphysiologic ERG activity may shed light on other roles of these key regulators in hematolymphoid development and human disease. See related commentary by Mercher, p. 2. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Kodgule
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Joshua W. Goldman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Travis Saari
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Athalee R. Aguilar
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Cody N. Hall
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Niharika Rajesh
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Juhi Gupta
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Shih-Chun A. Chu
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Li Ye
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Aishwarya Gurumurthy
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ashwin Iyer
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Noah A. Brown
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mark Y. Chiang
- Department of Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Marcin P. Cieslik
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Russell J.H. Ryan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Neveu B, Richer C, Cassart P, Caron M, Jimenez-Cortes C, St-Onge P, Fuchs C, Garnier N, Gobeil S, Sinnett D. Identification of new ETV6 modulators through a high-throughput functional screening. iScience 2022; 25:103858. [PMID: 35198911 PMCID: PMC8851229 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.103858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
ETV6 transcriptional activity is critical for proper blood cell development in the bone marrow. Despite the accumulating body of evidence linking ETV6 malfunction to hematological malignancies, its regulatory network remains unclear. To uncover genes that modulate ETV6 repressive transcriptional activity, we performed a specifically designed, unbiased genome-wide shRNA screen in pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. Following an extensive validation process, we identified 13 shRNAs inducing overexpression of ETV6 transcriptional target genes. We showed that the silencing of AKIRIN1, COMMD9, DYRK4, JUNB, and SRP72 led to an abrogation of ETV6 repressive activity. We identified critical modulators of the ETV6 function which could participate in cellular transformation through the ETV6 transcriptional network. We develop a genome-wide shRNAs screen for ETV6 modulators The screen uncovered 13 novel putative ETV6 modulator genes The modulators demonstrated a broad impact on the ETV6 transcriptional network T-ALL cells results suggest modulators are conserved in other cellular contexts
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Neveu
- Sainte-Justine University Health Center Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Chantal Richer
- Sainte-Justine University Health Center Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Pauline Cassart
- Sainte-Justine University Health Center Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Maxime Caron
- Sainte-Justine University Health Center Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Camille Jimenez-Cortes
- Sainte-Justine University Health Center Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
- Molecular Biology Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Pascal St-Onge
- Sainte-Justine University Health Center Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Claire Fuchs
- Sainte-Justine University Health Center Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Nicolas Garnier
- Sainte-Justine University Health Center Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Stéphane Gobeil
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Corresponding author
| | - Daniel Sinnett
- Sainte-Justine University Health Center Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
- Corresponding author
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Di Paola J, Porter CC. ETV6-related thrombocytopenia and leukemia predisposition. Blood 2019; 134:663-667. [PMID: 31248877 PMCID: PMC6706811 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019852418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ line mutations in ETV6 are responsible for a familial thrombocytopenia and leukemia predisposition syndrome. Thrombocytopenia is almost completely penetrant and is usually mild. Leukemia is reported in ∼30% of carriers and is most often B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The mechanisms by which ETV6 dysfunction promotes thrombocytopenia and leukemia remain unclear. Care for individuals with ETV6-related thrombocytopenia and leukemia predisposition includes genetic counseling, treatment or prevention of excessive bleeding and surveillance for the development of hematologic malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Di Paola
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO; and
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5
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Neveu B, Caron M, Lagacé K, Richer C, Sinnett D. Genome wide mapping of ETV6 binding sites in pre-B leukemic cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:15526. [PMID: 30341373 PMCID: PMC6195514 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33947-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic alterations in the transcriptional repressor ETV6 are associated with hematological malignancies. Notably, the t(12;21) translocation leading to an ETV6-AML1 fusion gene is the most common genetic alteration found in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Moreover, most of these patients also lack ETV6 expression, suggesting a tumor suppressor function. To gain insights on ETV6 DNA-binding specificity and genome wide transcriptional regulation capacities, we performed chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments coupled to deep sequencing in a t(12;21)-positive pre-B leukemic cell line. This strategy led to the identification of ETV6-bound regions that were further associated to gene expression. ETV6 binding is mostly cell type-specific as only few regions are shared with other blood cell subtypes. Peaks localization and motif enrichment analyses revealed that this unique binding profile could be associated with the ETV6-AML1 fusion protein specific to the t(12;21) background. This study underscores the complexity of ETV6 binding and uncovers ETV6 transcriptional network in pre-B leukemia cells bearing the recurrent t(12;21) translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Neveu
- Sainte-Justine UHC Research Center, Montreal, Qc, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Qc, Canada
| | - Maxime Caron
- Sainte-Justine UHC Research Center, Montreal, Qc, Canada
| | - Karine Lagacé
- Sainte-Justine UHC Research Center, Montreal, Qc, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Qc, Canada
| | - Chantal Richer
- Sainte-Justine UHC Research Center, Montreal, Qc, Canada
| | - Daniel Sinnett
- Sainte-Justine UHC Research Center, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
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6
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Pathogenesis of ETV6/RUNX1-positive childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia and mechanisms underlying its relapse. Oncotarget 2018; 8:35445-35459. [PMID: 28418909 PMCID: PMC5471068 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
ETV6/RUNX1 (E/R) is the most common fusion gene in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Multiple lines of evidence imply a “two-hit” model for the molecular pathogenesis of E/R-positive ALL, whereby E/R rearrangement is followed by a series of secondary mutations that trigger overt leukemia. The cellular framework in which E/R arises and the maintenance of a pre-leukemic condition by E/R are fundamental to the mechanism that underlies leukemogenesis. Accordingly, a variety of studies have focused on the relationship between the clones giving rise to the primary and recurrent E/R-positive ALL. We review here the most recent insights into the pathogenic mechanisms underlying E/R-positive ALL, as well as the molecular abnormalities prevailing at relapse.
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7
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Ghazavi F, De Moerloose B, Van Loocke W, Wallaert A, Helsmoortel HH, Ferster A, Bakkus M, Plat G, Delabesse E, Uyttebroeck A, Van Nieuwerburgh F, Deforce D, Van Roy N, Speleman F, Benoit Y, Lammens T, Van Vlierberghe P. Unique long non-coding RNA expression signature in ETV6/RUNX1-driven B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Oncotarget 2018; 7:73769-73780. [PMID: 27650541 PMCID: PMC5342012 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Overwhelming evidence indicates that long non-coding RNAs have essential roles in tumorigenesis. Nevertheless, their role in the molecular pathogenesis of pediatric B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia has not been extensively explored. Here, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the long non-coding RNA transcriptome in ETV6/RUNX1-positive BCP-ALL, one of the most frequent subtypes of pediatric leukemia. First, we used primary leukemia patient samples to identify an ETV6/RUNX1 specific expression signature consisting of 596 lncRNA transcripts. Next, integration of this lncRNA signature with RNA sequencing of BCP-ALL cell lines and lncRNA profiling of an in vitro model system of ETV6/RUNX1 knockdown, revealed that lnc-NKX2-3-1, lnc-TIMM21-5, lnc-ASTN1-1 and lnc-RTN4R-1 are truly regulated by the oncogenic fusion protein. Moreover, sustained inactivation of lnc-RTN4R-1 and lnc-NKX2-3-1 in ETV6/RUNX1 positive cells caused profound changes in gene expression. All together, our study defined a unique lncRNA expression signature associated with ETV6/RUNX1-positive BCP-ALL and identified lnc-RTN4R-1 and lnc-NKX2-3-1 as lncRNAs that might be functionally implicated in the biology of this prevalent subtype of human leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Ghazavi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Paediatrics and Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Barbara De Moerloose
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wouter Van Loocke
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Paediatrics and Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annelynn Wallaert
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Paediatrics and Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hetty H Helsmoortel
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Paediatrics and Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alina Ferster
- Department of Hemato-Oncology, HUDERF, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marleen Bakkus
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Geneviève Plat
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Eric Delabesse
- Department of Hematology, Institut Universitaire de Cancérologie de Toulouse, University Toulouse-III Paul-Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Anne Uyttebroeck
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium
| | - Filip Van Nieuwerburgh
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dieter Deforce
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nadine Van Roy
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Paediatrics and Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Frank Speleman
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Paediatrics and Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yves Benoit
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tim Lammens
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Van Vlierberghe
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Paediatrics and Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Malouf C, Ottersbach K. Molecular processes involved in B cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:417-446. [PMID: 28819864 PMCID: PMC5765206 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-017-2620-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
B cell leukaemia is one of the most frequent malignancies in the paediatric population, but also affects a significant proportion of adults in developed countries. The majority of infant and paediatric cases initiate the process of leukaemogenesis during foetal development (in utero) through the formation of a chromosomal translocation or the acquisition/deletion of genetic material (hyperdiploidy or hypodiploidy, respectively). This first genetic insult is the major determinant for the prognosis and therapeutic outcome of patients. B cell leukaemia in adults displays similar molecular features as its paediatric counterpart. However, since this disease is highly represented in the infant and paediatric population, this review will focus on this demographic group and summarise the biological, clinical and epidemiological knowledge on B cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia of four well characterised subtypes: t(4;11) MLL-AF4, t(12;21) ETV6-RUNX1, t(1;19) E2A-PBX1 and t(9;22) BCR-ABL1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Malouf
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Katrin Ottersbach
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK.
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Abstract
RUNX1 is a member of the core-binding factor family of transcription factors and is indispensable for the establishment of definitive hematopoiesis in vertebrates. RUNX1 is one of the most frequently mutated genes in a variety of hematological malignancies. Germ line mutations in RUNX1 cause familial platelet disorder with associated myeloid malignancies. Somatic mutations and chromosomal rearrangements involving RUNX1 are frequently observed in myelodysplastic syndrome and leukemias of myeloid and lymphoid lineages, that is, acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. More recent studies suggest that the wild-type RUNX1 is required for growth and survival of certain types of leukemia cells. The purpose of this review is to discuss the current status of our understanding about the role of RUNX1 in hematological malignancies.
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10
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Sundaresh A, Williams O. Mechanism of ETV6-RUNX1 Leukemia. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 962:201-216. [PMID: 28299659 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-3233-2_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The t(12;21)(p13;q22) translocation is the most frequently occurring single genetic abnormality in pediatric leukemia. This translocation results in the fusion of the ETV6 and RUNX1 genes. Since its discovery in the 1990s, the function of the ETV6-RUNX1 fusion gene has attracted intense interest. In this chapter, we will summarize current knowledge on the clinical significance of ETV6-RUNX1, the experimental models used to unravel its function in leukemogenesis, the identification of co-operating mutations and the mechanisms responsible for their acquisition, the function of the encoded transcription factor and finally, the future therapeutic approaches available to mitigate the associated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Sundaresh
- Cancer section, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Owen Williams
- Cancer section, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK.
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Yang YL, Yen CT, Pai CH, Chen HY, Yu SL, Lin CY, Hu CY, Jou ST, Lin DT, Lin SR, Lin SW. A Double Negative Loop Comprising ETV6/RUNX1 and MIR181A1 Contributes to Differentiation Block in t(12;21)-Positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0142863. [PMID: 26580398 PMCID: PMC4651427 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) with t(12;21), which results in expression of the ETV6/RUNX1 fusion gene, is the most common chromosomal lesion in precursor-B (pre-B) ALL. We identified 17 microRNAs that were downregulated in ETV6/RUNX1+ compared with ETV6/RUNX1- clinical samples. Among these microRNAs, miR-181a-1 was the most significantly reduced (by ~75%; P < 0.001). Using chromatin immunoprecipitation, we demonstrated that ETV6/RUNX1 directly binds the regulatory region of MIR181A1, and knockdown of ETV6/RUNX1 increased miR-181a-1 level. We further showed that miR-181a (functional counterpart of miR-181a-1) could target ETV6/RUNX1 and cause a reduction in the level of the oncoprotein ETV6/RUNX1, cell growth arrest, an increase in apoptosis, and induction of cell differentiation in ETV6/RUNX1+ cell line. Moreover, ectopic expression of miR-181a also resulted in decreased CD10 hyperexpression in ETV6/RUNX1+ primary patient samples. Taken together, our results demonstrate that MIR181A1 and ETV6/RUNX1 regulate each other, and we propose that a double negative loop involving MIR181A1 and ETV6/RUNX1 may contribute to ETV6/RUNX1-driven arrest of differentiation in pre-B ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yung-Li Yang
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Departments of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Tzu Yen
- Departments of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Hsueh Pai
- Departments of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsuan-Yu Chen
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Liang Yu
- Departments of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Yu Lin
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Yi Hu
- Departments of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shiann-Tarng Jou
- Departments of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Dong-Tsamn Lin
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Departments of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Rung Lin
- Department of Bioscience Technology, College of Science, Chung-Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Center for Nanotechnology and Center for Biomedical Technology, College of Science, Chung-Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Wha Lin
- Departments of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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12
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Minas TZ, Han J, Javaheri T, Hong SH, Schlederer M, Saygideğer-Kont Y, Çelik H, Mueller KM, Temel I, Özdemirli M, Kovar H, Erkizan HV, Toretsky J, Kenner L, Moriggl R, Üren A. YK-4-279 effectively antagonizes EWS-FLI1 induced leukemia in a transgenic mouse model. Oncotarget 2015; 6:37678-94. [PMID: 26462019 PMCID: PMC4741957 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive tumor of bone and soft tissue affecting predominantly children and young adults. Tumor-specific chromosomal translocations create EWS-FLI1 and similar aberrant ETS fusion proteins that drive sarcoma development in patients. ETS family fusion proteins and over-expressed ETS proteins are also found in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. Transgenic expression of EWS-FLI1 in mice promotes high penetrance erythroid leukemia with dense hepatic and splenic infiltrations. We identified a small molecule, YK-4-279, that directly binds to EWS-FLI1 and inhibits its oncogenic activity in Ewing sarcoma cell lines and xenograft mouse models. Herein, we tested in vivo therapeutic efficacy and potential side effects of YK-4-279 in the transgenic mouse model with EWS-FLI1 induced leukemia. A two-week course of treatment with YK-4-279 significantly reduced white blood cell count, nucleated erythroblasts in the peripheral blood, splenomegaly, and hepatomegaly of erythroleukemic mice. YK-4-279 inhibited EWS-FLI1 target gene expression in neoplastic cells. Treated animals showed significantly better overall survival compared to control mice that rapidly succumbed to leukemia. YK-4-279 treated mice did not show overt toxicity in liver, spleen, or bone marrow. In conclusion, this in vivo study highlights the efficacy of YK-4-279 to treat EWS-FLI1 expressing neoplasms and support its therapeutic potential for patients with Ewing sarcoma and other ETS-driven malignancies.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Chromatin Immunoprecipitation
- Disease Models, Animal
- Flow Cytometry
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Humans
- Immunoenzyme Techniques
- Indoles/pharmacology
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/etiology
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/administration & dosage
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/antagonists & inhibitors
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/toxicity
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/administration & dosage
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/toxicity
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/administration & dosage
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/antagonists & inhibitors
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/toxicity
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Surface Plasmon Resonance
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsion Zewdu Minas
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jenny Han
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Sung-Hyeok Hong
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michaela Schlederer
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
- Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Haydar Çelik
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kristina M. Mueller
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Idil Temel
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Metin Özdemirli
- Department of Pathology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Heinrich Kovar
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Jeffrey Toretsky
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lukas Kenner
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
- Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Unit of Pathology of Laboratory Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Moriggl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aykut Üren
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
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13
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Ghazavi F, Lammens T, Van Roy N, Poppe B, Speleman F, Benoit Y, Van Vlierberghe P, De Moerloose B. Molecular basis and clinical significance of genetic aberrations in B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Exp Hematol 2015; 43:640-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2015.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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14
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Linka Y, Ginzel S, Krüger M, Novosel A, Gombert M, Kremmer E, Harbott J, Thiele R, Borkhardt A, Landgraf P. The impact of TEL-AML1 (ETV6-RUNX1) expression in precursor B cells and implications for leukaemia using three different genome-wide screening methods. Blood Cancer J 2013; 3:e151. [PMID: 24121163 PMCID: PMC3816209 DOI: 10.1038/bcj.2013.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2013] [Revised: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The reciprocal translocation t(12;21)(p13;q22), the most common structural genomic alteration in B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in children, results in a chimeric transcription factor TEL-AML1 (ETV6-RUNX1). We identified directly and indirectly regulated target genes utilizing an inducible TEL-AML1 system derived from the murine pro B-cell line BA/F3 and a monoclonal antibody directed against TEL-AML1. By integration of promoter binding identified with chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-on-chip, gene expression and protein output through microarray technology and stable labelling of amino acids in cell culture, we identified 217 directly and 118 indirectly regulated targets of the TEL-AML1 fusion protein. Directly, but not indirectly, regulated promoters were enriched in AML1-binding sites. The majority of promoter regions were specific for the fusion protein and not bound by native AML1 or TEL. Comparison with gene expression profiles from TEL-AML1-positive patients identified 56 concordantly misregulated genes with negative effects on proliferation and cellular transport mechanisms and positive effects on cellular migration, and stress responses including immunological responses. In summary, this work for the first time gives a comprehensive insight into how TEL-AML1 expression may directly and indirectly contribute to alter cells to become prone for leukemic transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Linka
- Heinrich-Heine University of Dusseldorf, Medical Faculty, Clinic for Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Dusseldorf, Germany
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15
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Sugita F, Maki K, Nakamura Y, Sasaki K, Mitani K. Overexpression of MIR9 indicates poor prognosis in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Leuk Lymphoma 2013; 55:78-86. [PMID: 23547834 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2013.790023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant expression of MIR9 predicts a poor prognosis in acute myelogenous leukemia. To evaluate its clinical significance in acute lymphoblastic leukemia, we analyzed expression levels of MIR9 in bone marrow samples from patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and compared them to those in normal bone marrow cells. Approximately 20% of them showed higher expression compared with controls. There was a tendency that patients who showed overexpression of MIR9 underwent worse clinical courses, but without statistical significance. However, when the analyses were restricted to patients who did not receive a stem cell transplant, overexpression of MIR9 was significantly associated with worse overall survival. Interestingly, exaggerated MIR9 expression and higher white blood cell count at presentation were independent unfavorable prognostic factors in all patients for overall survival by multivariate analysis. The presence of higher MIR9 expression could be a useful indicator for treatment stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusako Sugita
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine , Tochigi , Japan
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16
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ETV6-RUNX1 promotes survival of early B lineage progenitor cells via a dysregulated erythropoietin receptor. Blood 2011; 118:4910-8. [PMID: 21900195 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2011-05-354266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
ETV6-RUNX1 gene fusion is usually an early, prenatal event in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Transformation results in the generation of a persistent (> 14 years) preleukemic clone, which postnatally converts to ALL after the acquisition of necessary secondary genetic alterations. Many cancer cells show some expression of the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) gene, although the "functionality" of any EPOR complexes and their relevant signaling pathways in nonerythroid cells has not been validated. EPOR mRNA is selectively and ectopically expressed in ETV6-RUNX1(+) ALL, but the presence of a functional EPOR on the cell surface and its role in leukemogenesis driven by ETV6-RUNX1 remains to be identified. Here, we show that ETV6-RUNX1 directly binds the EPOR promoter and that expression of ETV6-RUNX1 alone in normal pre-B cells is sufficient to activate EPOR transcription. We further reveal that murine and human ETV6-RUNX1(+) cells expressing EPOR mRNA have EPO ligand binding activity that correlates with an increased cell survival through activation of the JAK2-STAT5 pathway and up-regulation of antiapoptotic BCL-XL. These data support the contention that ETV6-RUNX1 directly activates ectopic expression of a functional EPOR and provides cell survival signals that may contribute critically to persistence of covert premalignant clones in children.
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17
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Nambiar M, Raghavan SC. How does DNA break during chromosomal translocations? Nucleic Acids Res 2011; 39:5813-25. [PMID: 21498543 PMCID: PMC3152359 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkr223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2010] [Revised: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 03/29/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal translocations are one of the most common types of genetic rearrangements and are molecular signatures for many types of cancers. They are considered as primary causes for cancers, especially lymphoma and leukemia. Although many translocations have been reported in the last four decades, the mechanism by which chromosomes break during a translocation remains largely unknown. In this review, we summarize recent advances made in understanding the molecular mechanism of chromosomal translocations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mridula Nambiar
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
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18
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Zaliova M, Meyer C, Cario G, Vaskova M, Marschalek R, Stary J, Zuna J, Trka J. TEL/AML1-positive patients lacking TEL exon 5 resemble canonical TEL/AML1 cases. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 56:217-25. [PMID: 21157892 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.22686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2010] [Accepted: 05/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The TEL/AML1 fusion gene which represents the most frequent genetic abnormality in childhood ALL, usually results from genomic breakpoints in TEL intron 5 and AML1 intron 1 or 2. At the protein level, the helix-loop-helix domain and exon 5-coded central region of TEL are typically fused to almost entire AML1 including DNA-binding domain. PROCEDURE We identified two ALL patients with genomic breakpoints within TEL intron 4 resulting in variant TEL/AML1 fusion lacking the TEL exon 5-coded central region. This region was supposed to play an important role in TEL/AML1 function, particularly in TEL/AML1-mediated transcriptional repression of AML1 targets. We aimed at investigating the impact of the loss of this region on disease behavior and TEL/AML1 function. We compared clinical and biological characteristics, treatment response, and outcome of the variant versus classical TEL/AML1 cases, analyzed genome wide gene expression profiles and performed reporter gene assay. RESULTS No distinct differences between variant and classical TEL/AML1 cases were observed including gene expression profiling and detailed immunophenotyping. By using reporter gene assay, we showed that the loss of the central region does not influence the TEL/AML1-mediated transcriptional repression. CONCLUSIONS The deletion of the central region did not affect the TEL/AML1-specific phenotype; we did not find any relevant differences in clinical and biological features when variant versus classical TEL/AML1-positive cases were compared. Thus, our data does not support hypothesis that the central region of TEL is indispensable for TEL/AML1 driven leukemogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marketa Zaliova
- CLIP, Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic.
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19
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Schindler JW, Van Buren D, Foudi A, Krejci O, Qin J, Orkin SH, Hock H. TEL-AML1 corrupts hematopoietic stem cells to persist in the bone marrow and initiate leukemia. Cell Stem Cell 2009; 5:43-53. [PMID: 19570513 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2009.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2008] [Revised: 03/16/2009] [Accepted: 04/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The initial steps in the pathogenesis of acute leukemia remain incompletely understood. The TEL-AML1 gene fusion, the hallmark translocation in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and the first hit, occurs years before the clinical disease, most often in utero. We have generated mice in which TEL-AML1 expression is driven from the endogenous promoter and can be targeted to specific populations. TEL-AML1 renders mice prone to malignancy after chemical mutagenesis when expressed in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), but not in early lymphoid progenitors. We reveal that TEL-AML1 markedly increases the number of HSCs and predominantly maintains them in the quiescent (G(0)) stage of the cell cycle. TEL-AML1(+) HSCs retain self-renewal properties and contribute to hematopoiesis, but fail to out-compete normal HSCs. Our work shows that stem cells are susceptible to subversion by weak oncogenes that can subtly alter their molecular program to provide a latent reservoir for the accumulation of further mutations.
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20
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Roudaia L, Cheney MD, Manuylova E, Chen W, Morrow M, Park S, Lee CT, Kaur P, Williams O, Bushweller JH, Speck NA. CBFbeta is critical for AML1-ETO and TEL-AML1 activity. Blood 2009; 113:3070-9. [PMID: 19179469 PMCID: PMC2662647 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2008-03-147207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2008] [Accepted: 01/11/2009] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
AML1-ETO and TEL-AML1 are chimeric proteins resulting from the t(8;21)(q22;q22) in acute myeloid leukemia, and the t(12;21)(p13;q22) in pre-B-cell leukemia, respectively. The Runt domain of AML1 in both proteins mediates DNA binding and heterodimerization with the core binding factor beta (CBFbeta) subunit. To determine whether CBFbeta is required for AML1-ETO and TEL-AML1 activity, we introduced amino acid substitutions into the Runt domain that disrupt heterodimerization with CBFbeta but not DNA binding. We show that CBFbeta contributes to AML1-ETO's inhibition of granulocyte differentiation, is essential for its ability to enhance the clonogenic potential of primary mouse bone marrow cells, and is indispensable for its cooperativity with the activated receptor tyrosine kinase TEL-PDGFbetaR in generating acute myeloid leukemia in mice. Similarly, CBFbeta is essential for TEL-AML1's ability to promote self-renewal of B cell precursors in vitro. These studies validate the Runt domain/CBFbeta interaction as a therapeutic target in core binding factor leukemias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Roudaia
- Department of Biochemistry, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH, USA
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21
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Wiemels JL, Hofmann J, Kang M, Selzer R, Green R, Zhou M, Zhong S, Zhang L, Smith MT, Marsit C, Loh M, Buffler P, Yeh RF. Chromosome 12p deletions in TEL-AML1 childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia are associated with retrotransposon elements and occur postnatally. Cancer Res 2008; 68:9935-44. [PMID: 19047175 PMCID: PMC2597307 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-08-2139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
TEL-AML1 (ETV6-RUNX1) is the most common translocation in the childhood leukemias, and is a prenatal mutation in most children. This translocation has been detected at a high rate among newborns ( approximately 1%); therefore, the rate-limiting event for leukemia seems to be secondary mutations. One such frequent mutation in this subtype is partial deletion of chromosome 12p, trans from the translocation. Nine del(12p) breakpoints within six leukemia cases were sequenced to explore the etiology of this genetic event, and most involved cryptic sterile translocations. Twelve of 18 del(12p) parent sequences involved in these breakpoints were located in repeat regions (8 of these in long interspersed nuclear elements). This stands in contrast with TEL-AML1, in which only 21 of 110 previously assessed breakpoints (19%) occur in DNA repeats (P=0.0001). An exploratory assessment of archived neonatal blood cards revealed significantly more long interspersed nuclear element CpG methylations in individuals at birth who were later diagnosed with TEL-AML1 leukemia, compared with individuals who did not contract leukemia (P=0.01). Nontemplate nucleotides were also more frequent in del(12p) than in TEL-AML1 junctions (P=0.004), suggesting formation by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase. Assessment of six archived neonatal blood cards indicated that no del(12p) rearrangements backtracked to birth, although two of these patients were previously positive for TEL-AML1 using the same assay with comparable sensitivity. These data are compatible with a two-stage natural history: TEL-AML1 occurs prenatally, and del(12p) occurs postnatally in more mature cells with a structure that suggests the involvement of retrotransposon instability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph L Wiemels
- Laboratory for Molecular Epidemiology, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 941143-0441, USA.
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22
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Baeumler J, Szuhai K, Falkenburg JF, van Schie ML, Ottmann OG, Nijmeijer BA. Establishment and cytogenetic characterization of a human acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line (ALL-VG) with ETV6/ABL1 rearrangement. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 185:37-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergencyto.2008.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2008] [Revised: 04/25/2008] [Accepted: 05/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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23
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Morrow M, Samanta A, Kioussis D, Brady HJM, Williams O. TEL-AML1 preleukemic activity requires the DNA binding domain of AML1 and the dimerization and corepressor binding domains of TEL. Oncogene 2007; 26:4404-14. [PMID: 17237815 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1210227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2006] [Revised: 11/01/2006] [Accepted: 11/22/2006] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The t(12;21)(p13;q22) translocation generates the TEL-AML1 (TEL, translocation-Ets-leukemia; AML1, acute myeloid leukemia-1) (ETV6-RUNX1) fusion product and is the most common chromosomal abnormality in pediatric leukemia. Our previous studies using a murine fetal liver transplantation model demonstrated that TEL-AML1 promotes the self-renewal of B-cell precursors in vitro and enhances the expansion of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in vivo. This is consistent with the hypothesis that TEL-AML1 induces expansion of a preleukemic clone. Several studies have described domains within TEL-AML1 involved in the transcriptional regulation of specific target genes. However, it is unclear which of these domains is important for the activity of TEL-AML1 in preleukemic hematopoiesis. In order to examine this, we have generated a panel of deletion mutants and expressed them in HSCs. These experiments demonstrate that TEL-AML1 requires multiple domains from both TEL and AML1 to alter hematopoiesis. Furthermore, mutation of a single amino-acid residue within the runt homology domain of AML1, required for DNA binding, was sufficient to abrogate TEL-AML1 activity. These data suggest that TEL-AML1 acts as an aberrant transcription factor to perturb multiple pathways during hematopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Morrow
- Molecular Haematology and Cancer Biology Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College, London, UK
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24
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Al-Sweedan SA, Neglia JP, Steiner ME, Bostrom BC, Casey T, Hirsch BA. Characteristics of patients with TEL-AML1-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia with single or multiple fusions. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007; 48:510-4. [PMID: 16763978 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.20911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The TEL-AML1 fusion in precursor-B ALL is generated by a cryptic 12;21 translocation that is detectable by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). It is generally considered a favorable prognostic indicator. Some TEL-AML1+ ALL patients present at diagnosis with extra copies of the fusion, enumerated by FISH. The aim of the study was to determine whether additional copies of TEL-AML1 have clinical significance. PROCEDURE Charts of all TEL-AML1+ ALL patients at the UM and Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota between 1996 and 2004 were reviewed. RESULTS Eight patients (7 males/1 female, mean age 46 months) with two or more TEL-AML1 fusion signals and 24 with single TEL-AML1 fusion signals (18 males/6 females, mean age 52 months) were identified. There was no statistically significant difference in age or gender between the two groups. Patients with double TEL-AML1+ had a higher frequency of myeloid markers CD13 (P = 0.04) or CD33 (P = 0.003) than single TEL-AML1+ patients. Single TEL-AML1+ patients had higher WBC (P = 0.04) than double TEL-AML1+ patients. A trend toward slower therapy response was seen in double TEL-AML1+ patients versus single, (1 of 7 [14%] <5% marrow blasts on Day 7 vs. 13 of 23 [56%], P = 0.09). Double TEL-AML1+ patients had a higher relapse rate (P = 0.09) than single TEL-AML1+ patients. CONCLUSIONS Utilizing FISH to distinguish subgroups of TEL-AML1 fusion patients may have important prognostic implications. The presence of an extra fusion may portend poorer prognosis. A larger and longer-term follow-up study will be required to verify the possible clinical significance of the presence of multiple TEL-AML1 fusions.
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MESH Headings
- Antigens, CD/analysis
- Antigens, Differentiation, Myelomonocytic/analysis
- CD13 Antigens/analysis
- Child
- Child, Preschool
- Chromosomes, Human, 21-22 and Y
- Chromosomes, Human, 6-12 and X
- Core Binding Factor Alpha 2 Subunit/genetics
- Female
- Humans
- In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
- Infant
- Leukocyte Count
- Male
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/drug therapy
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/genetics
- Prognosis
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-ets/genetics
- Repressor Proteins/genetics
- Retrospective Studies
- Sialic Acid Binding Ig-like Lectin 3
- Translocation, Genetic
- ETS Translocation Variant 6 Protein
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25
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Sabaawy HE, Azuma M, Embree LJ, Tsai HJ, Starost MF, Hickstein DD. TEL-AML1 transgenic zebrafish model of precursor B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2006; 103:15166-71. [PMID: 17015828 PMCID: PMC1622794 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0603349103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a clonal disease that evolves through the accrual of genetic rearrangements and/or mutations within the dominant clone. The TEL-AML1 (ETV6-RUNX1) fusion in precursor-B (pre-B) ALL is the most common genetic rearrangement in childhood cancer; however, the cellular origin and the molecular pathogenesis of TEL-AML1-induced leukemia have not been identified. To study the origin of TEL-AML1-induced ALL, we generated transgenic zebrafish expressing TEL-AML1 either ubiquitously or in lymphoid progenitors. TEL-AML1 expression in all lineages, but not lymphoid-restricted expression, led to progenitor cell expansion that evolved into oligoclonal B-lineage ALL in 3% of the transgenic zebrafish. This leukemia was transplantable to conditioned wild-type recipients. We demonstrate that TEL-AML1 induces a B cell differentiation arrest, and that leukemia development is associated with loss of TEL expression and elevated Bcl2/Bax ratio. The TEL-AML1 transgenic zebrafish models human pre-B ALL, identifies the molecular pathways associated with leukemia development, and serves as the foundation for subsequent genetic screens to identify modifiers and leukemia therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatem E Sabaawy
- Experimental Transplantation and Immunology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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26
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Yamagata T, Maki K, Waga K, Mitani K. TEL/ETV6 induces apoptosis in 32D cells through p53-dependent pathways. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2006; 347:517-26. [PMID: 16828711 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2006.06.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2006] [Accepted: 06/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
TEL is an ETS family transcription factor that is critical for maintaining hematopoietic stem cells in adult bone marrow. To investigate the roles of TEL in myeloid proliferation and differentiation, we introduced TEL cDNA into mouse myeloid 32Dcl3 cells. Overexpression of TEL repressed interleukin-3-dependent proliferation through blocking cell cycle progression. Also, the presence of TEL triggered apoptosis through the mitochondrial intrinsic pathway on exposure to granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. We found an increase in p53 protein and its DNA binding in the TEL-overexpressing cells. Forced expression of TEL stimulated transcription via the p53-responsive element and increased the expression of cellular target genes for p53 such as cell cycle regulator p21 and apoptosis inducer Puma. Consistently, induction of apoptosis was delayed by pifithrin-alpha treatment and completely blocked by increased expression of Bcl-2 in the TEL-overexpressing cells. These data collectively suggest that TEL exerts a tumor suppressive function through augmenting the p53 pathway and facilitates normal development of myelopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Yamagata
- Department of Hematology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
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Abstract
Runx1/AML1 (also known as CBFA2 and PEBP23B) is a Runt family transcription factor critical for normal hematopoiesis. Runx1 forms a heterodimer with CBF3 and binds to the consensus PEBP2 sequence through the Runt domain. Runx1 enhances gene transcription by interacting with transcriptional coactivators such as p300 and CREB-binding protein. However, Runx1 can also suppress gene transcription by interacting with transcriptional corepressors, including mSin3A, TLE (mammalian homolog of Groucho), and histone deacetylases. Runx1 not only is critical for definitive hematopoiesis in the fetus but also is required for normal megakaryocytic maturation and T-lymphocyte and B-lymphocyte development in adult mice. Runx1 has been identified in leukemia-associated chromosomal translocations, including t(8;21) (Runx1-ETO/MTG8), t(16;21) (Runx1-MTG16), t(3;21) (Runx1-Evi1), t(12;21) (TEL-Runx1), and t(X;21) (Runx1-Fog2). The molecular mechanism of leukemogenesis by these fusion proteins is discussed. Various mutant mice expressing these fusion proteins have been created. However, expression of the fusion protein is not sufficient by itself to cause leukemia and likely requires additional events for leukemogenesis. Point mutations in a Runx1 allele cause haploinsufficiency and a biallelic null for Runx1, which are associated with familial platelet disorder with a propensity for acute myeloid leukemia (FPD/AML) and AML-M0, respectively. Thus, the correct protein structure and the precise dosage of Runx1 are essential for the maintenance of normal hematopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Yamagata
- Section on Immunology and Immunogenetics, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Abstract
Cancer can be defined as a genetic disease, resulting as a consequence of multiple events associated with initiation, promotion and metastatic growth. Cancer results from the loss of control of cellular homeostasis. Cell homeostasis is the result of the balance between proliferation and cell death, while cellular transformation can be viewed as a loss of relationship between these events. Oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes act as modulators of cell proliferation, while the balance of apoptotic and anti-apoptotic genes controls cell death. All cancer cells acquire similar sets of functional capacities: (1) independence from mitogenic/growth signals; (2) loss of sensitivity to "anti-growth" signals; (3) evade apoptosis; (4) Neo-angiogenic conversion; (5) release from senescence; and (6) invasiveness and metastasis. One of the goals of molecular biology is to elucidate the mechanisms that contribute to the development and progression of cancer. Such understanding of the molecular basis of cancer will provide new possibilities for: (1) earlier detection as well as better diagnosis and staging of disease with detection of minimal residual disease recurrences and evaluation of response to therapy; (2) prevention; and (3) novel treatment strategies. We feel that increased understanding of ETS-regulated biological pathways will directly impact these areas. ETS proteins are transcription factors that activate or repress the expression of genes that are involved in various biological processes, including cellular proliferation, differentiation, development, transformation and apoptosis. Identification of target genes that are regulated by a specific transcription factor is one of the most critical areas in understanding the molecular mechanisms that control transcription. Furthermore, identification of target gene promoters for normal and oncogenic transcription factors provides insight into the regulation of genes that are involved in control of normal cell growth, and differentiation, as well as provide information critical to understanding cancer development. This review will highlight the current understanding of ETS genes and their role in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Seth
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Research, Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Sciences Centre, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4N 3M5.
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Nakamura F, Nakamura Y, Maki K, Sato Y, Mitani K. Cloning and characterization of the novel chimeric gene TEL/PTPRR in acute myelogenous leukemia with inv(12)(p13q13). Cancer Res 2005; 65:6612-21. [PMID: 16061641 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-04-4631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We have cloned a novel TEL/protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor-type R (PTPRR) chimeric gene generated by inv(12)(p13q13). PTPRR is the first protein tyrosine phosphatase identified as a fusion partner of TEL. The chimeric gene fused exon 4 of the TEL gene with exon 7 of the PTPRR gene, and produced 10 isoforms through alternative splicing. Two isoforms that were expressed at the highest level in the leukemic cells could have been translated into COOH-terminally truncated TEL protein possessing the helix-loop-helix domain (tTEL) and TEL/PTPRR chimeric protein linking the helix-loop-helix domain of TEL to the catalytic domain of PTPRR. These two mutant proteins exerted a dominant-negative effect over transcriptional repression mediated by wild-type TEL, although they themselves did not show any transcriptional activity. Heterodimerization with wild-type TEL might be an underlying mechanism in this effect. TEL/PTPRR did not exhibit any tyrosine phosphatase activity. Importantly, overexpression of TEL/PTPRR in granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor-dependent UT7/GM cells resulted in their factor-independent proliferation, whereas overexpression of tTEL did not. After cytokine depletion, phosphorylated signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) significantly declined in mock cells, but remained in both tTEL- and TEL/PTPRR-overexpressing cells. Loss of tumor suppressive function of wild-type TEL and maintenance of STAT3-mediated signal could at least partly contribute to the leukemogenesis caused by inv(12)(p13q13).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiko Nakamura
- Department of Hematology, Dokkyo University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
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30
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Abstract
The RUNX genes have come to prominence recently because of their roles as essential regulators of cell fate in development and their paradoxical effects in cancer, in which they can function either as tumour-suppressor genes or dominant oncogenes according to context. How can this family of transcription factors have such an ambiguous role in cancer? How and where do these genes impinge on the pathways that regulate growth control and differentiation? And what is the evidence for a wider role for the RUNX genes in non-haematopoietic cancers?
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Blyth
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Institute of Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow Veterinary School, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
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