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Vanacker H, Treilleux I, Schiffler C, Bieche I, Campone M, Patsouris A, Arnedos M, Cottu PH, Jacquin JP, Dalenc F, Pinton A, Servant N, Attignon V, Rouleau E, Morel A, Legrand F, Jimenez M, Andre F, Bachelot T. p4EBP1 staining predicts outcome in ER-positive endocrine-resistant metastatic breast cancer patients treated with everolimus and exemestane. Br J Cancer 2024; 130:613-619. [PMID: 38182687 PMCID: PMC10876520 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02549-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To identify patients most likely to respond to everolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, a prospective biomarker study was conducted in hormone receptor-positive endocrine-resistant metastatic breast cancer patients treated with exemestane-everolimus therapy. METHODS Metastatic tumor biopsies were processed for immunohistochemical staining (p4EBP1, PTEN, pAKT, LKB1, and pS6K). ESR1, PIK3CA and AKT1 gene mutations were detected by NGS. The primary endpoint was the association between the p4EBP1 expression and clinical benefit rate (CBR) at 6 months of everolimus plus exemestane treatment. RESULTS Of 150 patients included, 107 were evaluable for the primary endpoint. p4EBP1 staining above the median (Allred score ≥6) was associated with a higher CBR at 6 months (62% versus 40% in high-p4EBP1 versus low-p4EBP1, χ2 test, p = 0.026) and a longer progression-free survival (PFS) (median PFS of 9.2 versus 5.8 months in high-p4EBP1 versus low-p4EBP1; p = 0.02). When tested with other biomarkers, only p4EBP1 remained a significant predictive marker of PFS in multivariate analysis (hazard ratio, 0.591; p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS This study identified a subset of patients with hormone receptor-positive endocrine-resistant metastatic breast cancer and poor outcome who would derive less benefit from everolimus and exemestane. p4EBP1 may be a useful predictive biomarker in routine clinical practice. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02444390.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mario Campone
- Institut de cancérologie de l'ouest Pays de Loire Nantes-Angers, Saint-Herblain, France
| | - Anne Patsouris
- Institut de cancérologie de l'ouest Pays de Loire Nantes-Angers, Saint-Herblain, France
| | | | | | | | - Florence Dalenc
- ICR, Institut Universitaire du Cancer de Toulouse, Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Alain Morel
- Institut de cancérologie de l'ouest Pays de Loire Nantes-Angers, Saint-Herblain, France
- Univ Angers, Nantes Université, Inserm, CNRS, CRCI2NA, SFR ICAT, F-49000, Angers, France
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Scott TG, Sathyan KM, Gioeli D, Guertin MJ. TRPS1 modulates chromatin accessibility to regulate estrogen receptor alpha (ER) binding and ER target gene expression in luminal breast cancer cells. PLoS Genet 2024; 20:e1011159. [PMID: 38377146 PMCID: PMC10906895 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Common genetic variants in the repressive GATA-family transcription factor (TF) TRPS1 locus are associated with breast cancer risk, and luminal breast cancer cell lines are particularly sensitive to TRPS1 knockout. We introduced an inducible degron tag into the native TRPS1 locus within a luminal breast cancer cell line to identify the direct targets of TRPS1 and determine how TRPS1 mechanistically regulates gene expression. We acutely deplete over 80 percent of TRPS1 from chromatin within 30 minutes of inducing degradation. We find that TRPS1 regulates transcription of hundreds of genes, including those related to estrogen signaling. TRPS1 directly regulates chromatin structure, which causes estrogen receptor alpha (ER) to redistribute in the genome. ER redistribution leads to both repression and activation of dozens of ER target genes. Downstream from these primary effects, TRPS1 depletion represses cell cycle-related gene sets and reduces cell doubling rate. Finally, we show that high TRPS1 activity, calculated using a gene expression signature defined by primary TRPS1-regulated genes, is associated with worse breast cancer patient prognosis. Taken together, these data suggest a model in which TRPS1 modulates the genomic distribution of ER, both activating and repressing transcription of genes related to cancer cell fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G. Scott
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Kizhakke Mattada Sathyan
- Center for Cell Analysis and Modeling, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Daniel Gioeli
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Cancer Center Member, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Michael J. Guertin
- Center for Cell Analysis and Modeling, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
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Hall KA, Filardo EJ. The G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER): A Critical Therapeutic Target for Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:2460. [PMID: 37887304 PMCID: PMC10605794 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogens have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various cancers, with increasing concern regarding the overall rising incidence of disease and exposure to environmental estrogens. Estrogens, both endogenous and environmental, manifest their actions through intracellular and plasma membrane receptors, named ERα, ERβ, and GPER. Collectively, they act to promote a broad transcriptional response that is mediated through multiple regulatory enhancers, including estrogen response elements (EREs), serum response elements (SREs), and cyclic AMP response elements (CREs). Yet, the design and rational assignment of antiestrogen therapy for breast cancer has strictly relied upon an endogenous estrogen-ER binary rubric that does not account for environmental estrogens or GPER. New endocrine therapies have focused on the development of drugs that degrade ER via ER complex destabilization or direct enzymatic ubiquitination. However, these new approaches do not broadly treat all cancer-involved receptors, including GPER. The latter is concerning since GPER is directly associated with tumor size, distant metastases, cancer stem cell activity, and endocrine resistance, indicating the importance of targeting this receptor to achieve a more complete therapeutic response. This review focuses on the critical importance and value of GPER-targeted therapeutics as part of a more holistic approach to the treatment of estrogen-driven malignancies.
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Siatis KE, Giannopoulou E, Manou D, Sarantis P, Karamouzis MV, Raftopoulou S, Fasseas K, Alzahrani FM, Kalofonos HP, Theocharis AD. Resistance to hormone therapy in breast cancer cells promotes autophagy and EGFR signaling pathway. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C708-C720. [PMID: 37575061 PMCID: PMC10625825 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00199.2023] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for women worldwide. Endocrine therapies represent the cornerstone for hormone-dependent breast cancer treatment. However, in many cases, endocrine resistance is induced with poor prognosis for patients. In the current study, we have developed MCF-7 cell lines resistant to fulvestrant (MCF-7Fulv) and tamoxifen (MCF-7Tam) aiming at investigating mechanisms underlying resistance. Both resistant cell lines exerted lower proliferation capacity in two-dimensional (2-D) cultures but retain estrogen receptor α (ERα) expression and proliferate independent of the presence of estrogens. The established cell lines tend to be more aggressive exhibiting advanced capacity to form colonies, increased expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and heterodimerization of ERBB family receptors and activation of EGFR downstream pathways like MEK/ERK1/2 and PI3K/AKT. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors tested against resistant MCF-7Fulv and MCF-7Tam cells showed moderate efficacy to inhibit cell proliferation, except for lapatinib, which concomitantly inhibits both EGFR and HER2 receptors and strongly reduced cell proliferation. Furthermore, increased autophagy was observed in resistant MCF-7Fulv and MCF-7Tam cells as shown by the presence of autophagosomes and increased Beclin-1 levels. The increased autophagy in resistant cells is not associated with increased apoptosis, suggesting a cytoprotective role for autophagy that may favor cells' survival and aggressiveness. Thus, by exploiting those underlying mechanisms, new targets could be established to overcome endocrine resistance.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The development of resistance to hormone therapy caused by both fulvestrant and tamoxifen promotes autophagy with concomitant apoptosis evasion, rendering cells capable of surviving and growing. The fact that resistance also triggers ERBB family signaling pathways, which are poorly inhibited by tyrosine kinase inhibitors might attribute to cells' aggressiveness. It is obvious that the development of endocrine therapy resistance involves a complex interplay between deregulated ERBB signaling and autophagy that may be considered in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos E Siatis
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis and Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Rio, Greece
- Clinical Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Rio, Greece
| | - Efstathia Giannopoulou
- Clinical Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Rio, Greece
| | - Dimitra Manou
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis and Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Rio, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Sarantis
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Michalis V Karamouzis
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sofia Raftopoulou
- Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Faculty of Crop Production, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Fasseas
- Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Faculty of Crop Production, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Fatimah Mohammed Alzahrani
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haralabos P Kalofonos
- Clinical Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Rio, Greece
| | - Achilleas D Theocharis
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis and Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Rio, Greece
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Scott TG, Sathyan KM, Gioeli D, Guertin MJ. TRPS1 modulates chromatin accessibility to regulate estrogen receptor (ER) binding and ER target gene expression in luminal breast cancer cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.03.547524. [PMID: 37461612 PMCID: PMC10349936 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.03.547524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women. The most common subtype is luminal breast cancer, which is typically driven by the estrogen receptor α (ER), a transcription factor (TF) that activates many genes required for proliferation. Multiple effective therapies target this pathway, but individuals often develop resistance. Thus, there is a need to identify additional targets that regulate ER activity and contribute to breast tumor progression. TRPS1 is a repressive GATA-family TF that is overexpressed in breast tumors. Common genetic variants in the TRPS1 locus are associated with breast cancer risk, and luminal breast cancer cell lines are particularly sensitive to TRPS1 knockout. However, we do not know how TRPS1 regulates target genes to mediate these breast cancer patient and cellular outcomes. We introduced an inducible degron tag into the native TRPS1 locus within a luminal breast cancer cell line to identify the direct targets of TRPS1 and determine how TRPS1 mechanistically regulates gene expression. We acutely deplete over eighty percent of TRPS1 from chromatin within 30 minutes of inducing degradation. We find that TRPS1 regulates transcription of hundreds of genes, including those related to estrogen signaling. TRPS1 directly regulates chromatin structure, which causes ER to redistribute in the genome. ER redistribution leads to both repression and activation of dozens of ER target genes. Downstream from these primary effects, TRPS1 depletion represses cell cycle-related gene sets and reduces cell doubling rate. Finally, we show that high TRPS1 activity, calculated using a gene expression signature defined by primary TRPS1-regulated genes, is associated with worse breast cancer patient prognosis. Taken together, these data suggest a model in which TRPS1 modulates the activity of other TFs, both activating and repressing transcription of genes related to cancer cell fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G Scott
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Kizhakke Mattada Sathyan
- Center for Cell Analysis and Modeling, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Daniel Gioeli
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Michael J Guertin
- Center for Cell Analysis and Modeling, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
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Hagan ML, Mander S, Joseph C, Mcgrath M, Barrett A, Lewis A, Hill WD, Browning D, Mcgee-Lawrence ME, Cai H, Liu K, Barrett JT, Gewirtz DA, Thangaraju M, Schoenlein PV. Upregulation of the EGFR/MEK1/MAPK1/2 signaling axis as a mechanism of resistance to antiestrogen‑induced BimEL dependent apoptosis in ER + breast cancer cells. Int J Oncol 2022; 62:20. [PMID: 36524361 PMCID: PMC9854236 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2022.5468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is commonly upregulated in multiple cancer types, including breast cancer. In the present study, evidence is provided in support of the premise that upregulation of the EGFR/MEK1/MAPK1/2 signaling axis during antiestrogen treatment facilitates the escape of breast cancer cells from BimEL‑dependent apoptosis, conferring resistance to therapy. This conclusion is based on the findings that ectopic BimEL cDNA overexpression and confocal imaging studies confirm the pro‑apoptotic role of BimEL in ERα expressing breast cancer cells and that upregulated EGFR/MEK1/MAPK1/2 signaling blocks BimEL pro‑apoptotic action in an antiestrogen‑resistant breast cancer cell model. In addition, the present study identified a pro‑survival role for autophagy in antiestrogen resistance while EGFR inhibitor studies demonstrated that a significant percentage of antiestrogen‑resistant breast cancer cells survive EGFR targeting by pro‑survival autophagy. These pre‑clinical studies establish the possibility that targeting both the MEK1/MAPK1/2 signaling axis and pro‑survival autophagy may be required to eradicate breast cancer cell survival and prevent the development of antiestrogen resistance following hormone treatments. The present study uniquely identified EGFR upregulation as one of the mechanisms breast cancer cells utilize to evade the cytotoxic effects of antiestrogens mediated through BimEL‑dependent apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie L. Hagan
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Suchreet Mander
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Carol Joseph
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Michael Mcgrath
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Amanda Barrett
- Department of Pathology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,Department of Medical College of Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Allison Lewis
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - William D. Hill
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Darren Browning
- Department of Medical College of Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,Department of Biochemistry, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | | | - Haifeng Cai
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,Department of Surgical Oncology, Tangshan People's Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Kebin Liu
- Department of Medical College of Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,Department of Biochemistry, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - John T. Barrett
- Department of Medical College of Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,Department of Radiation Oncology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - David A. Gewirtz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Muthusamy Thangaraju
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,Department of Medical College of Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Patricia V. Schoenlein
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,Department of Medical College of Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,Correspondence to: Dr Patricia V. Schoenlein, Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Research and Education Building Room 2912, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA, E-mail:
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7
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Chen YC, Yu J, Metcalfe C, De Bruyn T, Gelzleichter T, Malhi V, Perez-Moreno PD, Wang X. Latest generation estrogen receptor degraders for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 31:515-529. [PMID: 34694932 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2021.1983542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) and full receptor antagonist provides an important therapeutic option for hormone receptor (HR)-positive breast cancer. Endocrine therapies include tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), that exhibits receptor agonist and antagonist activity, and aromatase inhibitors that block estrogen biosynthesis but which demonstrate acquired resistance. Fulvestrant, the only currently approved SERD, is limited by poor drug-like properties. A key focus for improving disease management has been development of oral SERDs with optimized target occupancy and potency and superior clinical efficacy. AREAS COVERED Using PubMed, clinicaltrials.gov, and congress websites, this review explored the preclinical development and clinical pharmacokinetics from early phase clinical studies (2015 or later) of novel oral SERDs, including giredestrant, amcenestrant, camizestrant, elacestrant, and rintodestrant. EXPERT OPINION Numerous oral SERDs are in clinical development, aiming to form the core endocrine therapy for HR-positive breast cancer. Through property- and structure-based drug design of estrogen receptor-binding, antagonism, degradation, anti-proliferation, and pharmacokinetic properties, these SERDs have distinct profiles which impact clinical dosing, efficacy, and safety. Assuming preliminary safety and activity data are confirmed in phase 3 trials, these promising agents could further improve the management, outcomes, and quality of life in HR-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Chi Chen
- Clinical Pharmacology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jiajie Yu
- Clinical Pharmacology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ciara Metcalfe
- Discovery Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tom De Bruyn
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas Gelzleichter
- Genentech Research and Early Development, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Vikram Malhi
- Clinical Pharmacology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Xiaojing Wang
- Discovery Chemistry, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
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Zafar E, Maqbool MF, Iqbal A, Maryam A, Shakir HA, Irfan M, Khan M, Li Y, Ma T. A comprehensive review on anticancer mechanism of bazedoxifene. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2021; 69:767-782. [PMID: 33759222 DOI: 10.1002/bab.2150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is counted as a second leading cause of death among nontransmissible diseases. Identification of novel anticancer drugs is therefore necessary for the effective treatment of cancer. Conventional drug discovery is time consuming and expensive process. Unlike conventional drug discovery, drug repositioning offers a novel strategy for urgent drug discovery since it is a cost-effective and faster process. Bazedoxifene (BZA) is a synthetic selective estrogen receptor modulator, approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. BZA is now being studied for its anticancer activity in various cancers including breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, colon cancer, head and neck cancer, medulloblastoma, brain cancer, and gastrointestinal cancer. Studies have reported that BZA is effective in reducing cancer progression through multiple mechanisms. BZA could effectively inhibit STAT3, PI3K/AKT, and MAPK signaling pathways and induce apoptosis. In addition to its anticancer activity as monotherapy, BZA has been shown to enhance the chemotherapeutic efficacy of clinical drugs such as paclitaxel, cisplatin, palbociclib, and oxaliplatin in multiple neoplasms. This review mainly focused on the anticancer activity, cellular targets, and anticancer mechanism of BZA, which may help the further design and conduct of research and repositioning it for oncological clinic trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erum Zafar
- Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Quaid-e-Azam Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Asia Iqbal
- Department of Wild Life and Ecology, University of Veternary and Animal Sciences, Ravi Campus, Patoki, Pakistan
| | - Amara Maryam
- Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Quaid-e-Azam Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Abdullah Shakir
- Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Quaid-e-Azam Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Irfan
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Khan
- Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Quaid-e-Azam Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Yongming Li
- School of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tonghui Ma
- School of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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La Camera G, Gelsomino L, Caruso A, Panza S, Barone I, Bonofiglio D, Andò S, Giordano C, Catalano S. The Emerging Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Endocrine Resistant Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051160. [PMID: 33800302 PMCID: PMC7962645 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Two-thirds of breast cancer patients present an estrogen receptor–positive tumor at diagnosis, and the main treatment options for these patients are endocrine therapies such as aromatase inhibitors, selective modulators of estrogen receptor activity or selective estrogen receptor down-regulators. Although endocrine therapies have high efficacy in early-stage breast cancers, the failure of the therapeutic response to these hormonal treatments remains the major clinical challenge. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as a novel mechanism of drug resistance. Indeed, EVs isolated from tumor and stromal cells act as key messengers in intercellular communications able to propagate traits of resistance and/or educate the microenvironment to sustain a breast cancer resistant phenotype. Understanding the EV-mediated molecular mechanisms involved in hormonal resistance can provide the rationale for novel and effective treatment modalities and allow for the identification of potential biomarkers to monitor therapy response in ER-positive breast cancer patients. Abstract Breast cancer is the most common solid malignancy diagnosed in females worldwide, and approximately 70% of these tumors express estrogen receptor α (ERα), the main biomarker of endocrine therapy. Unfortunately, despite the use of long-term anti-hormone adjuvant treatment, which has significantly reduced patient mortality, resistance to the endocrine treatments often develops, leading to disease recurrence and limiting clinical benefits. Emerging evidence indicates that extracellular vesicles (EVs), nanosized particles that are released by all cell types and responsible for local and systemic intercellular communications, might represent a newly identified mechanism underlying endocrine resistance. Unraveling the role of EVs, released by transformed cells during the tumor evolution under endocrine therapy, is still an open question in the cancer research area and the molecular mechanisms involved should be better defined to discover alternative therapeutic approaches to overcome resistance. In this review, we will provide an overview of recent findings on the involvement of EVs in sustaining hormonal resistance in breast cancer and discuss opportunities for their potential use as biomarkers to monitor the therapeutic response and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giusi La Camera
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Luca Gelsomino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Amanda Caruso
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Salvatore Panza
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Ines Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Daniela Bonofiglio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Cinzia Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (S.C.); Tel.: +39-0984-496216 (C.G.); +39-0984-496207 (S.C.)
| | - Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (S.C.); Tel.: +39-0984-496216 (C.G.); +39-0984-496207 (S.C.)
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Lin X, Xiang H, Luo G. Targeting estrogen receptor α for degradation with PROTACs: A promising approach to overcome endocrine resistance. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 206:112689. [PMID: 32829249 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen receptor alfa (ERα) is expressed in approximate 70% of breast cancer (BC) which is the most common malignancy in women worldwide. To date, the foremost intervention in the treatment of ER positive (ER+) BC is still the endocrine therapy. However, resistance to endocrine therapies remains a major hurdle in the long-term management of ER + BC. Although the mechanisms underlying endocrine resistance are complex, cumulative evidence revealed that ERα still plays a critical role in driving BC tumor cells to grow in resistance state. Fulvestrant, a selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD), has moved to first line therapy for metastatic ER + BC, suggesting that removing ERα would be a useful strategy to overcome endocrine resistance. Proteolysis-Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) technology, an emerging paradigm for protein degradation, has the potential to eliminate both wild type and mutant ERα in breast cancer cells. Excitingly, ARV-471, an ERα-targeted PROTAC developed by Arvinas, has been in phase 1 clinical trials. In this review, we will summarize recent progress of ER-targeting PROTACs from publications and patents along with their therapeutic opportunities for the treatment of endocrine-resistant BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Hua Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Guoshun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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11
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Hartkopf AD, Grischke EM, Brucker SY. Endocrine-Resistant Breast Cancer: Mechanisms and Treatment. Breast Care (Basel) 2020; 15:347-354. [PMID: 32982644 PMCID: PMC7490658 DOI: 10.1159/000508675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocrine treatment is one of the most effective therapies for estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. However, most tumors will develop resistance to endocrine therapy as the cancer progresses. This review focuses on the mechanisms and markers of endocrine-resistant breast cancer. In addition, current and future strategies to overcome endocrine resistance are discussed. SUMMARY Several molecular mechanisms of endocrine resistance have been identified, including alterations in the ESR1 gene or in the PIK3CA/mTOR pathway. Meanwhile, CDK4/6, mTOR, and PI3K inhibition have shown to improve the efficacy of endocrine treatment and new promising approaches are being developed. KEY MESSAGE Overcoming primary or acquired resistance to endocrine treatment remains a major challenge. Since the molecular mechanisms of endocrine resistance are manifold, optimal combination and sequencing strategies will have to be developed in the future.
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12
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Brown KA, Andreopoulou E, Andreopoulou P. Endocrine Therapy-related Endocrinopathies-Biology, Prevalence and Implications for the Management of Breast Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 16:17-22. [PMID: 33841882 DOI: 10.17925/ohr.2020.16.1.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Nearly 270,000 new breast cancer cases are predicted to be diagnosed in the USA in 2019 with more than 70% being estrogen receptor positive and treated using endocrine therapy. The suppression of estrogen biosynthesis or action via the use of ovarian suppression, aromatase inhibitors and selective estrogen receptor modulators/degraders, respectively, is effective in approximately 70% of women. The systemic inhibition of estrogen during breast cancer treatment is also associated with side effects due to the important endocrine functions of this steroid hormone, including its role in the maintenance of energy homeostasis and bone health. The current work will present perspectives of the impact of endocrine therapy from the point of view of breast medical oncology, endocrinology, and basic science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy A Brown
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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13
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Elacestrant (RAD1901) exhibits anti-tumor activity in multiple ER+ breast cancer models resistant to CDK4/6 inhibitors. Breast Cancer Res 2019; 21:146. [PMID: 31852484 PMCID: PMC6921513 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-019-1230-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Addition of CDK4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) to endocrine therapy significantly increased progression-free survival, leading to their approval and incorporation into the metastatic breast cancer treatment paradigm. With these inhibitors being routinely used for patients with advanced estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, resistance to these agents and its impact on subsequent therapy needs to be understood. Considering the central role of ER in driving the growth of ER+ breast cancers, and thus endocrine agents being a mainstay in the treatment paradigm, the effects of prior CDK4/6i exposure on ER signaling and the relevance of ER-targeted therapy are important to investigate. The objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-tumor activity of elacestrant, a novel oral selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD), in preclinical models of CDK4/6i resistance. Methods Elacestrant was evaluated as a single agent, and in combination with alpelisib or everolimus, in multiple in vitro models and patient-derived xenografts that represent acquired and “de novo” CDK4/6i resistance. Results Elacestrant demonstrated growth inhibition in cells resistant to all three approved CDK4/6i (palbociclib, abemaciclib, ribociclib) in both ESR1 wild-type and mutant backgrounds. Furthermore, we demonstrated that elacestrant, as a single agent and in combination, inhibited growth of patient-derived xenografts that have been derived from a patient previously treated with a CDK4/6i or exhibit de novo resistance to CDK4/6i. While the resistant lines demonstrate distinct alterations in cell cycle modulators, this did not affect elacestrant’s anti-tumor activity. In fact, we observe that elacestrant downregulates several key cell cycle players and halts cell cycle progression in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions We demonstrate that breast cancer tumor cells continue to rely on ER signaling to drive tumor growth despite exposure to CDK4/6i inhibitors. Importantly, elacestrant can inhibit this ER-dependent growth despite previously reported mechanisms of CDK4/6i resistance observed such as Rb loss, CDK6 overexpression, upregulated cyclinE1 and E2F1, among others. These data provide a scientific rationale for the evaluation of elacestrant in a post-CDK4/6i patient population. Additionally, elacestrant may also serve as an endocrine backbone for rational combinations to combat resistance.
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Sinn BV, Fu C, Lau R, Litton J, Tsai TH, Murthy R, Tam A, Andreopoulou E, Gong Y, Murthy R, Gould R, Zhang Y, King TA, Viale A, Andrade V, Giri D, Salgado R, Laios I, Sotiriou C, Marginean EC, Kwiatkowski DN, Layman RM, Booser D, Hatzis C, Vicente Valero V, Fraser Symmans W. SET ER/PR: a robust 18-gene predictor for sensitivity to endocrine therapy for metastatic breast cancer. NPJ Breast Cancer 2019; 5:16. [PMID: 31231679 PMCID: PMC6542807 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-019-0111-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a clinical need to predict sensitivity of metastatic hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative (HR+/HER2-) breast cancer to endocrine therapy, and targeted RNA sequencing (RNAseq) offers diagnostic potential to measure both transcriptional activity and functional mutation. We developed the SETER/PR index to measure gene expression microarray probe sets that were correlated with hormone receptors (ESR1 and PGR) and robust to preanalytical and analytical influences. We tested SETER/PR index in biopsies of metastastic HR+/HER2- breast cancer against the treatment outcomes in 140 patients. Then we customized the SETER/PR assay to measure 18 informative, 10 reference transcripts, and sequence the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of ESR1 using droplet-based targeted RNAseq, and tested that in residual RNA from 53 patients. Higher SETER/PR index in metastatic samples predicted longer PFS and OS when patients received endocrine therapy as next treatment, even after adjustment for clinical-pathologic risk factors (PFS: HR 0.534, 95% CI 0.299 to 0.955, p = 0.035; OS: HR 0.315, 95% CI 0.157 to 0.631, p = 0.001). Mutated ESR1 LBD was detected in 8/53 (15%) of metastases, involving 1-98% of ESR1 transcripts (all had high SETER/PR index). A signature based on probe sets with good preanalytical and analytical performance facilitated our customization of an accurate targeted RNAseq assay to measure both phenotype and genotype of ER-related transcription. Elevated SETER/PR was associated with prolonged sensitivity to endocrine therapy in patients with metastatic HR+/HER2- breast cancer, especially in the absence of mutated ESR1 transcript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno V. Sinn
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
- Department of Pathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institut of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Chunxiao Fu
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Rosanna Lau
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Jennifer Litton
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Tsung-Heng Tsai
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Rashmi Murthy
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Alda Tam
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Eleni Andreopoulou
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY USA
| | - Yun Gong
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Ravi Murthy
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Rebekah Gould
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Ya Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Tari A. King
- Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA USA
| | - Agnes Viale
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY USA
| | - Victor Andrade
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY USA
- Department of Pathology, AC Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dilip Giri
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY USA
| | - Roberto Salgado
- Department of Pathology, GZA-ZNA, Antwerp, Belgium
- Division of Research, Peter Mac Callum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ioanna Laios
- Department of Pathology, Institut Jules Bordet, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christos Sotiriou
- Translational Breast Cancer Laboratory, Institut Jules Bordet, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Danielle N. Kwiatkowski
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Rachel M. Layman
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Daniel Booser
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Christos Hatzis
- Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
| | - V. Vicente Valero
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - W. Fraser Symmans
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
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Patel HK, Bihani T. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERDs) in cancer treatment. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 186:1-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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16
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Hamilton EP, Patel MR, Armstrong AC, Baird RD, Jhaveri K, Hoch M, Klinowska T, Lindemann JP, Morgan SR, Schiavon G, Weir HM, Im SA. A First-in-Human Study of the New Oral Selective Estrogen Receptor Degrader AZD9496 for ER+/HER2− Advanced Breast Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2018; 24:3510-3518. [DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-17-3102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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17
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Zhang J, Qian X, Liu F, Guo X, Gu F, Fu L. Silencing of syndecan-binding protein enhances the inhibitory effect of tamoxifen and increases cellular sensitivity to estrogen. Cancer Biol Med 2018; 15:29-38. [PMID: 29545966 PMCID: PMC5842332 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2017.0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Tamoxifen is used as a complementary treatment for estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer (BCa), but many patients developed resistance. The aim of this study was to examine the role of syndecan-binding protein (SDCBP) silencing in ER-positive BCa cells. METHODS In MCF-7/T47D cells, the effects of SDCBP silence/overexpression on cell proliferation and estrogenic response were examined. Cell proliferation was examined using the MTT assay and cell cycle regulators were examined by Western blot. Estrogen response was examined from a luciferase activity and evaluation of transcript levels of pS2 and progesterone receptor (PR) upon estrogen administration. Samples of ER-positive BCa were stained with ERα, PR, and SDCBP antibodies, and their expression correlations were analyzed. RESULTS We found that SDCBP silencing inhibited the proliferation of ER-positive BCa cells and arrested a greater number of cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle compared to tamoxifen alone, while SDCBP overexpression limited the anti-cancer effects of tamoxifen. SDCBP silencing and overexpression also enhanced and attenuated the estrogenic response, respectively. Expression of SDCBP was negatively correlated with PR, ERα, and the PR/ERα ratio in ER-positive BCa tissue samples. CONCLUSIONS SDCBP may be involved in tamoxifen resistance in ER-positive BCa. Tamoxifen treatment combined with SDCBP silencing may provide a novel treatment for endocrine therapy-resistant BCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Xiaolong Qian
- Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Fangfang Liu
- Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Xiaojing Guo
- Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Feng Gu
- Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Li Fu
- Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
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18
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Biologic Impact and Clinical Implication of mTOR Inhibition in Metastatic Breast Cancer. Int J Biol Markers 2018; 28:233-41. [DOI: 10.5301/jbm.5000040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The goal of therapy for patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is prolonging life and palliation of symptoms. Thus the preferred approach remains to use, at least initially, non-cytotoxic drugs. In hormone receptor-positive breast cancer the sequential use of single anti-estrogen drugs, e.g. tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors, and many others is standard, but eventually drug resistance will lead to failure of these compounds and a switch to chemotherapy will be necessary. Reversing resistance to anti-estrogen therapy in MBC is one of the strategies to avoid and delay the use of cytotoxic compounds. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been recently associated with in vitro reversal of drug resistance, including tamoxifen resistance. A number of early clinical studies have confirmed the concept and, more recently, everolimus was successfully tested in a randomized controlled trial in postmenopausal patients who progressed on previous anti-estrogen therapy for MBC. This manuscript will review the biology, preclinical and clinical data including the randomized controlled trial that lead to the approval of everolimus by the US FDA.
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Bihani T, Patel HK, Arlt H, Tao N, Jiang H, Brown JL, Purandare DM, Hattersley G, Garner F. Elacestrant (RAD1901), a Selective Estrogen Receptor Degrader (SERD), Has Antitumor Activity in Multiple ER + Breast Cancer Patient-derived Xenograft Models. Clin Cancer Res 2017; 23:4793-4804. [PMID: 28473534 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-16-2561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Revised: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancers are typically treated with endocrine agents, and dependence on the ER pathway is often retained even after multiple rounds of antiestrogen therapy. Selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERD) are being developed as a strategy to more effectively target ER and exploit ER dependence in these cancers, which includes inhibiting both wild-type and mutant forms of ER. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a novel orally bioavailable SERD, elacestrant (RAD1901), in preclinical models of ER+ breast cancer.Experimental Design: Elacestrant was evaluated as a single agent and in combination with palbociclib or everolimus in multiple ER+ breast cancer models, including several patient-derived xenograft models.Results: Elacestrant induces the degradation of ER, inhibits ER-mediated signaling and growth of ER+ breast cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo, and significantly inhibits tumor growth of multiple PDX models. Furthermore, we demonstrate that elacestrant in combination with palbociclib or everolimus can lead to greater efficacy in certain contexts. Finally, elacestrant exhibits significant antitumor activity both as a single agent and in combination with palbociclib in two patient-derived breast cancer xenograft models harboring ESR1 mutations.Conclusions: These data underscore the potential clinical utility of elacestrant as a single agent and as a combination therapy, for both early- and late-stage ER+ disease. Clin Cancer Res; 23(16); 4793-804. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Heike Arlt
- Radius Health, Inc, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | | | - Hai Jiang
- Radius Health, Inc, Waltham, Massachusetts
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Spoerke JM, Gendreau S, Walter K, Qiu J, Wilson TR, Savage H, Aimi J, Derynck MK, Chen M, Chan IT, Amler LC, Hampton GM, Johnston S, Krop I, Schmid P, Lackner MR. Heterogeneity and clinical significance of ESR1 mutations in ER-positive metastatic breast cancer patients receiving fulvestrant. Nat Commun 2016; 7:11579. [PMID: 27174596 PMCID: PMC4869259 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms11579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in ESR1 have been associated with resistance to aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy in patients with ER+ metastatic breast cancer. Little is known of the impact of these mutations in patients receiving selective oestrogen receptor degrader (SERD) therapy. In this study, hotspot mutations in ESR1 and PIK3CA from ctDNA were assayed in clinical trial samples from ER+ metastatic breast cancer patients randomized either to the SERD fulvestrant or fulvestrant plus a pan-PI3K inhibitor. ESR1 mutations are present in 37% of baseline samples and are enriched in patients with luminal A and PIK3CA-mutated tumours. ESR1 mutations are often polyclonal and longitudinal analysis shows distinct clones exhibiting divergent behaviour over time. ESR1 mutation allele frequency does not show a consistent pattern of increases during fulvestrant treatment, and progression-free survival is not different in patients with ESR1 mutations compared with wild-type patients. ESR1 mutations are not associated with clinical resistance to fulvestrant in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jiaheng Qiu
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California 94080, USA
| | | | - Heidi Savage
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California 94080, USA
| | - Junko Aimi
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California 94080, USA
| | | | - Meng Chen
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California 94080, USA
| | - Iris T. Chan
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California 94080, USA
| | - Lukas C. Amler
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California 94080, USA
| | | | | | - Ian Krop
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
| | - Peter Schmid
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
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21
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Nardone A, De Angelis C, Trivedi MV, Osborne CK, Schiff R. The changing role of ER in endocrine resistance. Breast 2015; 24 Suppl 2:S60-6. [PMID: 26271713 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2015.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor (ER) is expressed in approximately 70% of newly diagnosed breast tumors. Although endocrine therapy targeting ER is highly effective, intrinsic or acquired resistance is common, significantly jeopardizing treatment outcomes and minimizing overall survival. Even in the presence of endocrine resistance, a continued role of ER signaling is suggested by several lines of clinical and preclinical evidence. Indeed, inhibition or down-regulation of ER reduces tumor growth in preclinical models of acquired endocrine resistance, and many patients with recurrent ER+ breast tumors progressing on one type of ER-targeted treatment still benefit from sequential endocrine treatments that target ER by a different mechanism. New insights into the nature and biology of ER have revealed several mechanisms sustaining altered ER signaling in endocrine-resistant tumors, including deregulated growth factor receptor signaling that results in ligand-independent ER activation, unbalanced ER co-regulator activity, and genomic alterations involving the ER gene ESR1. Therefore, biopsies of recurrent lesions are needed to assess the changes in epi/genomics and signaling landscape of ER and associated pathways in order to tailor therapies to effectively overcome endocrine resistance. In addition, more completely abolishing the levels and activity of ER and its co-activators, in combination with selected signal transduction inhibitors or agents blocking the upstream or downstream targets of the ER pathway, may provide a better therapeutic strategy in combating endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agostina Nardone
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, USA
| | - Carmine De Angelis
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Italy
| | - Meghana V Trivedi
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Pharmacy Practice and Translational Research, University of Houston, College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - C Kent Osborne
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, USA
| | - Rachel Schiff
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, USA.
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Kourlaba G, Rapti V, Alexopoulos A, Relakis J, Koumakis G, Chatzikou M, Maniadakis N, Georgoulias V. Everolimus plus exemestane versus bevacizumab-based chemotherapy for second-line treatment of hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer in Greece: An economic evaluation study. BMC Health Serv Res 2015; 15:307. [PMID: 26239115 PMCID: PMC4524048 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-015-0971-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The objective of our study was to conduct a cost-effectiveness (CE) study of combined everolimus (EVE) and exemestane (EXE) versus the common clinical practice in Greece for the treatment of postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer (BC) progressing on nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors (NSAI). The combinations of bevacizumab (BEV) plus paclitaxel (PACL) and BEV plus capecitabine (CAPE) were selected as comparators. Method A Markov model, consisting of three health states, was used to describe disease progression and evaluate the CE of the comparators from a third-party payer perspective over a lifetime horizon. Efficacy and safety data as well as utility values considered in the model were extracted from the relevant randomized Phase III clinical trials and other published studies. Direct medical costs referring to the year 2014 were incorporated in the model. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis was conducted to account for uncertainty and variation in the parameters of the model. Primary outcomes were patient survival (life-years), quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), total direct costs and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER). Results The discounted quality-adjusted survival of patients treated with EVE plus EXE was greater by 0.035 and 0.004 QALYs, compared to BEV plus PACL and BEV plus CAPE, respectively. EVE plus EXE was the least costly treatment in terms of drug acquisition, administration, and concomitant medications. The total lifetime cost per patient was estimated at €55,022, €67,980, and €62,822 for EVE plus EXE, BEV plus PACL, and BEV plus CAPE, respectively. The probabilistic analysis confirmed the deterministic results. Conclusion Our results suggest that EVE plus EXE may be a dominant alternative relative to BEV plus PACL and BEV plus CAPE for the treatment of HR+/HER2- advanced BC patients failing initial therapy with NSAIs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12913-015-0971-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Kourlaba
- The Stavros Niarchos Foundation-Collaborative Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Outcomes Research (CLEO), National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece.
| | | | | | - John Relakis
- Department of Health Services Organization & Management, National School of Public Health, Athens, Greece.
| | - Georgios Koumakis
- 2nd Department of Pathology-Oncology, St. Savvas Hospital, Athens, Greece.
| | | | - Nikos Maniadakis
- Department of Health Services Organization & Management, National School of Public Health, Athens, Greece.
| | - Vassilis Georgoulias
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion, Greece.
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Abstract
Approximately 70% of breast cancers are oestrogen receptor α (ER) positive, and are, therefore, treated with endocrine therapies. However, about 25% of patients with primary disease and almost all patients with metastases will present with or eventually develop endocrine resistance. Despite the magnitude of this clinical challenge, the mechanisms underlying the development of resistance remain largely unknown. In the past 2 years, several studies unveiled gain-of-function mutations in ESR1, the gene encoding the ER, in approximately 20% of patients with metastatic ER-positive disease who received endocrine therapies, such as tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors. These mutations are clustered in a 'hotspot' within the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of the ER and lead to ligand-independent ER activity that promotes tumour growth, partial resistance to endocrine therapy, and potentially enhanced metastatic capacity; thus, ER LBD mutations might account for a mechanism of acquired endocrine resistance in a substantial fraction of patients with metastatic disease. In general, the absence of detectable ESR1 mutations in patients with treatment-naive disease, and the correlation between the frequency of patients with tumours harbouring these mutations and the number of endocrine treatments received suggest that, under selective treatment pressure, clonal expansion of rare mutant clones occurs, leading to resistance. Preclinical and clinical development of rationale-based novel therapeutic strategies that inhibit these ER mutants has the potential to substantially improve treatment outcomes. We discuss the contribution of ESR1 mutations to the development of acquired resistance to endocrine therapy, and evaluate how mutated ER can be detected and targeted to overcome resistance and improve patient outcomes.
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Hortobagyi GN. Everolimus plus exemestane for the treatment of advanced breast cancer: a review of subanalyses from BOLERO-2. Neoplasia 2015; 17:279-88. [PMID: 25810012 PMCID: PMC4372651 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2015.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 01/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer is typically managed with endocrine therapies. However, resistance to endocrine therapy results in disease progression in a large proportion of breast cancers. Through the understanding of the mechanisms of endocrine resistance, identification of implicated pathways and targets has led to the development of novel agents targeting these pathways. Phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) pathway aberrations are common in breast cancer, with increased PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling associated with resistance to endocrine and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-targeted therapies. The mTOR inhibitor everolimus, in combination with exemestane, has been approved for patients with advanced hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer who progress on prior nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor therapy based on results reported in the Breast Cancer Trials of Oral Everolimus-2 (BOLERO-2) study. This review will summarize the overall findings from BOLERO-2 and will consider available subanalyses by age, Asian origin, visceral or bone metastases, and prior therapy, with the aim of identifying populations most likely to benefit from everolimus therapy. The review will also summarize safety findings and their management and the effects of everolimus on quality of life.
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Key Words
- ae, adverse event
- bsap, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase
- cbr, clinical benefit rate
- cr, complete response
- ctx, c-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type 1 collagen
- her2, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2
- hr, hazard ratio
- nip, noninfectious pneumonitis
- orr, objective response rate
- pi3k/akt/mtor, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase b/mammalian target of rapamycin
- pfs, progression-free survival
- p1np, amino-terminal propeptide of type 1 collagen
- pr, partial response
- qol, quality of life
- tdd, time to definitive deterioration
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel N Hortobagyi
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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Harb WA. Management of patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer with visceral disease: challenges and treatment options. Cancer Manag Res 2015; 7:37-46. [PMID: 25653556 PMCID: PMC4310719 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s72592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine therapy is an important treatment option for women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) advanced breast cancer (ABC), yet many tumors are either intrinsically resistant or develop resistance to these therapies. Treatment of patients with ABC presenting with visceral metastases, which is associated with a poor prognosis, is also problematic. There is an unmet need for effective treatments for this patient population. Although chemotherapy is commonly perceived to be more effective than endocrine therapy in managing visceral metastases, patients who are not in visceral crisis might benefit from endocrine therapy, avoiding chemotherapy-associated toxicities that might affect quality of life. To improve outcomes, several targeted therapies are being investigated in combination with endocrine therapy for patients with endocrine-resistant, HR+ ABC. Although available data have considered patients with HR+ ABC as a whole, there are promising data from a prespecified analysis of a Phase III study of everolimus (Afinitor(®)), a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, in combination with exemestane (Aromasin(®)) in patients with visceral disease progressing after nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor therapy. In this review, challenges and treatment options for management of HR+ ABC with visceral disease, including consideration of therapeutic approaches undergoing clinical investigation, will be assessed.
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26
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Frederix GWJ, Severens JL, Hövels AM, van Hasselt JGC, Hooiveld MJJ, Neven P, Raaijmakers JAM, Schellens JHM. Real world cost of human epidermal receptor 2-positive metastatic breast cancer patients: a longitudinal incidence-based observational costing study in the Netherlands and Belgium. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2014; 24:340-54. [PMID: 25413216 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Currently, no country-specific metastatic breast cancer (MBC) observational costing data are available for the Netherlands and Belgium. Our aim is to describe country-specific resource use and costs of human epidermal receptor 2 (HER-2)-positive MBC in the Netherlands and Belgium, making use of real-world data. The eligibility period for patient selection was from April 2004 to April 2010. Inclusion and retrospective data collection begins at the time of first diagnosis of HER-2-positive MBC during the eligibility period and ends 24 months post-index diagnosis of MBC or at patient death. We identified 88 eligible patients in the Netherlands and 44 patients in Belgium. The total costs of medical treatment and other resource use utilisation per patient was €48,301 in the Netherlands and €37,431 in Belgium. Majority of costs was related to the use of trastuzumab in both countries, which was 50% of the total costs in the Netherlands and 56% in Belgium respectively. Our study provides estimates of resource use and costs for HER-2-positive MBC in the Netherlands and Belgium. We noticed various differences in resource use patterns between both countries demonstrating caution is needed when transferring cost estimates between countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- G W J Frederix
- Science Faculty, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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27
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Noguchi S, Masuda N, Iwata H, Mukai H, Horiguchi J, Puttawibul P, Srimuninnimit V, Tokuda Y, Kuroi K, Iwase H, Inaji H, Ohsumi S, Noh WC, Nakayama T, Ohno S, Rai Y, Park BW, Panneerselvam A, El-Hashimy M, Taran T, Sahmoud T, Ito Y. Efficacy of everolimus with exemestane versus exemestane alone in Asian patients with HER2-negative, hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in BOLERO-2. Breast Cancer 2014; 21:703-14. [PMID: 23404211 PMCID: PMC4210660 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-013-0444-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Accepted: 01/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The addition of mTOR inhibitor everolimus (EVE) to exemestane (EXE) was evaluated in an international, phase 3 study (BOLERO-2) in patients with hormone-receptor-positive (HR(+)) breast cancer refractory to letrozole or anastrozole. The safety and efficacy of anticancer treatments may be influenced by ethnicity (Sekine et al. in Br J Cancer 99:1757-62, 2008). Safety and efficacy results from Asian versus non-Asian patients in BOLERO-2 are reported. METHODS Patients were randomized (2:1) to 10 mg/day EVE + EXE or placebo (PBO) + EXE. Primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included overall survival, response rate, clinical benefit rate, and safety. RESULTS Of 143 Asian patients, 98 received EVE + EXE and 45 received PBO + EXE. Treatment with EVE + EXE significantly improved median PFS versus PBO + EXE among Asian patients by 38 % (HR = 0.62; 95 % CI, 0.41-0.94). Median PFS was also improved among non-Asian patients by 59 % (HR = 0.41; 95 % CI, 0.33-0.50). Median PFS duration among EVE-treated Asian patients was 8.48 versus 4.14 months for PBO + EXE, and 7.33 versus 2.83 months, respectively, in non-Asian patients. The most common grade 3/4 adverse events (stomatitis, anemia, elevated liver enzymes, hyperglycemia, and dyspnea) occurred at similar frequencies in Asian and non-Asian patients. Grade 1/2 interstitial lung disease occurred more frequently in Asian patients. Quality of life was similar between treatment arms in Asian patients. CONCLUSION Adding EVE to EXE provided substantial clinical benefit in both Asian and non-Asian patients with similar safety profiles. This combination represents an improvement in the management of postmenopausal women with HR(+)/HER2(-) advanced breast cancer progressing on nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors, regardless of ethnicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinzaburo Noguchi
- Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan,
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28
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Yardley DA. Adverse Event Management of mTOR Inhibitors During Treatment of Hormone Receptor–Positive Advanced Breast Cancer: Considerations for Oncologists. Clin Breast Cancer 2014; 14:297-308. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2013] [Revised: 03/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Kelly CM, Power DG, Lichtman SM. Targeted therapy in older patients with solid tumors. J Clin Oncol 2014; 32:2635-46. [PMID: 25071113 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2014.55.4246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of targeted therapy has ushered in the era of personalized medicine in cancer therapy. The increased understanding of tumor heterogeneity has led to the determination of specific targets that can be exploited in treatment. This review highlights approved drugs in different therapeutic classes, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, drugs targeted to the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, BRAF-mutation targeted drugs, anti-epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy. There have not been elderly patient-specific trials of these therapies. Most of the data are extrapolated from larger trials in which older patients generally were a fraction of the participants. Therapeutic recommendations are made on the basis of this analysis with the recognition that the older clinical trial participants may not be representative of patients seen in daily practice. Patient selection and geriatric evaluation are critical for appropriate drug selection, dosing, and monitoring. With care, these therapies are a major step forward in the safe and effective treatment of older patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara M Kelly
- Ciara M. Kelly and Derek G. Power, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; and Stuart M. Lichtman, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Commack, NY
| | - Derek G Power
- Ciara M. Kelly and Derek G. Power, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; and Stuart M. Lichtman, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Commack, NY
| | - Stuart M Lichtman
- Ciara M. Kelly and Derek G. Power, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; and Stuart M. Lichtman, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Commack, NY.
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30
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Chitre M, Reimers KM. Considerations for payers in managing hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer. CLINICOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2014; 6:331-9. [PMID: 25031542 PMCID: PMC4096457 DOI: 10.2147/ceor.s57214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the second most common cause of death in women. In 2010, the direct cost associated with BC care in the US was $16.5 billion, the highest among all cancers. By the year 2020, at the current rates of incidence and survival, the cost is projected to increase to approximately $20 billion. Although endocrine therapies to manage hormone receptor-positive (HR+) BC are highly effective, endocrine resistance results in disease progression. Increased understanding of endocrine resistance and the mechanisms of disease progression has led to development and subsequent approval of novel targeted treatments, resulting in the expansion of the therapeutic armamentarium to combat HR+ BC. Clear guidelines based on the safety and efficacy of treatment options exist; however, the optimal sequence of therapy is unknown, and providers, payers, and other key players in the health care system are tasked with identifying cost-effective and evidence-based treatment strategies that will improve patient outcomes and, in time, help curb the staggering increase in cost associated with BC care. Safety and efficacy are key considerations, but there is also a need to consider the impact of a given therapy on patient quality of life, treatment adherence, and productivity. To minimize cost associated with overall management, cost-effectiveness, and financial burden that the therapy can impose on patients, caregivers and managed care plans are also important considerations. To help evaluate and identify the optimal choice of therapy for patients with HR+ advanced BC, the available data on endocrine therapies and novel agents are discussed, specifically with respect to the safety, efficacy, financial impact on patients and the managed care plan, impact on quality of life and productivity of patients, and improvement in patient medication adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Chitre
- Pharmacy Management, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, Rochester, NY, USA
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31
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The therapeutic significance of aromatase inhibitors in endometrial carcinoma. Gynecol Oncol 2014; 134:190-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2014.04.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Revised: 04/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Ng VC, Johnson JJ, Cuellar S. Targeting the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway with everolimus: implications for the management of metastatic breast cancer. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2014; 21:433-42. [PMID: 24964967 DOI: 10.1177/1078155214540732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The inhibitors of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) have documented antitumor activity via disruption of various signaling pathways leading to impaired cellular growth, proliferation, and survival. In preclinical studies, mTOR inhibitors use in combination with hormonal therapy has shown promising results in overcoming endocrine resistance in breast cancer cells. The role of everolimus in breast cancer was established in the Breast Cancer Trial of Oral Everolimus-2 (BOLERO-2) trial in combination with exemestane for patients with advanced metastatic hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer, who relapsed after initial hormonal manipulation. The study met its primary endpoint of significant improvement in progression free survival (PFS) with a median time to progression of 6.9 months in the combination group versus 2.8 months in exemestane group. Favorable improvements in PFS were reported across all patient subgroups regardless of age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, number of prior therapies, and presence of visceral metastases. Adverse events were mostly mild to moderate in severity and consistent with the known safety profile of everolimus. Major toxicities reported include stomatitis, non-infectious pneumonitis, and hyperglycemia. The purpose of this review is to discuss the role of everolimus as a valuable component in advanced metastatic breast cancer and delineate current strategies to prevent and manage the most common toxicities associated with this combination regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vin Cci Ng
- Department of Pharmacy, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Rd Singapore, 169680 Singapore
| | - Jeremy J Johnson
- Department of Pharmacy, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Rd Singapore, 169680 Singapore Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sandra Cuellar
- Department of Pharmacy, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Rd Singapore, 169680 Singapore Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Opyrchal M, Salisbury JL, Zhang S, McCubrey J, Hawse J, Goetz MP, Lomberk GA, Haddad T, Degnim A, Lange C, Ingle JN, Galanis E, D'Assoro AB. Aurora-A mitotic kinase induces endocrine resistance through down-regulation of ERα expression in initially ERα+ breast cancer cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e96995. [PMID: 24816249 PMCID: PMC4016211 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0096995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Development of endocrine resistance during tumor progression represents a major challenge in the management of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) positive breast tumors and is an area under intense investigation. Although the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood, many studies point towards the ‘cross-talk’ between ERα and MAPK signaling pathways as a key oncogenic axis responsible for the development of estrogen-independent growth of breast cancer cells that are initially ERα+ and hormone sensitive. In this study we employed a metastatic breast cancer xenograft model harboring constitutive activation of Raf-1 oncogenic signaling to investigate the mechanistic linkage between aberrant MAPK activity and development of endocrine resistance through abrogation of the ERα signaling axis. We demonstrate for the first time the causal role of the Aurora-A mitotic kinase in the development of endocrine resistance through activation of SMAD5 nuclear signaling and down-regulation of ERα expression in initially ERα+ breast cancer cells. This contribution is highly significant for the treatment of endocrine refractory breast carcinomas, because it may lead to the development of novel molecular therapies targeting the Aurora-A/SMAD5 oncogenic axis. We postulate such therapy to result in the selective eradication of endocrine resistant ERαlow/− cancer cells from the bulk tumor with consequent benefits for breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Opyrchal
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey L. Salisbury
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Shuya Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - James McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - John Hawse
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Mattew P. Goetz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Gwen A. Lomberk
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Tufia Haddad
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Amy Degnim
- Department of General Surgery, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Carol Lange
- Departments of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - James N. Ingle
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Evanthia Galanis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail: (ABD); (EG)
| | - Antonino B. D'Assoro
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College Of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail: (ABD); (EG)
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Pritchard KI, Burris HA, Ito Y, Rugo HS, Dakhil S, Hortobagyi GN, Campone M, Csöszi T, Baselga J, Puttawibul P, Piccart M, Heng D, Noguchi S, Srimuninnimit V, Bourgeois H, Gonzalez Martin A, Osborne K, Panneerselvam A, Taran T, Sahmoud T, Gnant M. Safety and efficacy of everolimus with exemestane vs. exemestane alone in elderly patients with HER2-negative, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in BOLERO-2. Clin Breast Cancer 2013; 13:421-432.e8. [PMID: 24267730 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2013.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Revised: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive (HR(+)) breast cancer in whom disease progresses or there is recurrence while taking a nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) are usually treated with exemestane (EXE), but no single standard of care exists in this setting. The BOLERO-2 trial demonstrated that adding everolimus (EVE) to EXE improved progression-free survival (PFS) while maintaining quality of life when compared with EXE alone. Because many women with HR(+) advanced breast cancer are elderly, the tolerability profile of EVE plus EXE in this population is of interest. PATIENTS AND METHODS BOLERO-2, a phase III randomized trial, compared EVE (10 mg/d) and placebo (PBO), both plus EXE (25 mg/d), in 724 postmenopausal women with HR(+) advanced breast cancer recurring/progressing after treatment with NSAIs. Safety and efficacy data in elderly patients are reported at 18-month median follow-up. RESULTS Baseline disease characteristics and treatment histories among the elderly subsets (≥ 65 years, n = 275; ≥ 70 years, n = 164) were generally comparable with younger patients. The addition of EVE to EXE improved PFS regardless of age (hazard ratio, 0.59 [≥ 65 years] and 0.45 [≥ 70 years]). Adverse events (AEs) of special interest (all grades) that occurred more frequently with EVE than with PBO included stomatitis, infections, rash, pneumonitis, and hyperglycemia. Elderly EVE-treated patients had similar incidences of these AEs as did younger patients but had more on-treatment deaths. CONCLUSION Adding EVE to EXE offers substantially improved PFS over EXE and was generally well tolerated in elderly patients with HR(+) advanced breast cancer. Careful monitoring and appropriate dose reductions or interruptions for AE management are recommended during treatment with EVE in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen I Pritchard
- Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre and the University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Browne BC, Hochgräfe F, Wu J, Millar EKA, Barraclough J, Stone A, McCloy RA, Lee CS, Roberts C, Ali NA, Boulghourjian A, Schmich F, Linding R, Farrow L, Gee JMW, Nicholson RI, O'Toole SA, Sutherland RL, Musgrove EA, Butt AJ, Daly RJ. Global characterization of signalling networks associated with tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer. FEBS J 2013; 280:5237-57. [PMID: 23876235 DOI: 10.1111/febs.12441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Revised: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Acquired resistance to the anti-estrogen tamoxifen remains a significant challenge in breast cancer management. In this study, we used an integrative approach to characterize global protein expression and tyrosine phosphorylation events in tamoxifen-resistant MCF7 breast cancer cells (TamR) compared with parental controls. Quantitative mass spectrometry and computational approaches were combined to identify perturbed signalling networks, and candidate regulatory proteins were functionally interrogated by siRNA-mediated knockdown. Network analysis revealed that cellular metabolism was perturbed in TamR cells, together with pathways enriched for proteins associated with growth factor, cell-cell and cell matrix-initiated signalling. Consistent with known roles for Ras/MAPK and PI3-kinase signalling in tamoxifen resistance, tyrosine-phosphorylated MAPK1, SHC1 and PIK3R2 were elevated in TamR cells. Phosphorylation of the tyrosine kinase Yes and expression of the actin-binding protein myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate (MARCKS) were increased two- and eightfold in TamR cells respectively, and these proteins were selected for further analysis. Knockdown of either protein in TamR cells had no effect on anti-estrogen sensitivity, but significantly decreased cell motility. MARCKS expression was significantly higher in breast cancer cell lines than normal mammary epithelial cells and in ER-negative versus ER-positive breast cancer cell lines. In primary breast cancers, cytoplasmic MARCKS staining was significantly higher in basal-like and HER2 cancers than in luminal cancers, and was independently predictive of poor survival in multivariate analyses of the whole cohort (P < 0.0001) and in ER-positive patients (P = 0.0005). These findings provide network-level insights into the molecular alterations associated with the tamoxifen-resistant phenotype, and identify MARCKS as a potential biomarker of therapeutic responsiveness that may assist in stratification of patients for optimal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigid C Browne
- Cancer Research Program, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Stone A, Cowley MJ, Valdes-Mora F, McCloy RA, Sergio CM, Gallego-Ortega D, Caldon CE, Ormandy CJ, Biankin AV, Gee JMW, Nicholson RI, Print CG, Clark SJ, Musgrove EA. BCL-2 hypermethylation is a potential biomarker of sensitivity to antimitotic chemotherapy in endocrine-resistant breast cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2013; 12:1874-85. [PMID: 23861345 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-13-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Overexpression of the antiapoptotic factor BCL-2 is a frequent feature of malignant disease and is commonly associated with poor prognosis and resistance to conventional chemotherapy. In breast cancer, however, high BCL-2 expression is associated with favorable prognosis, estrogen receptor (ER) positivity, and low tumor grade, whereas low expression is included in several molecular signatures associated with resistance to endocrine therapy. In the present study, we correlate BCL-2 expression and DNA methylation profiles in human breast cancer and in multiple cell models of acquired endocrine resistance to determine whether BCL-2 hypermethylation could provide a useful biomarker of response to cytotoxic therapy. In human disease, diminished expression of BCL-2 was associated with hypermethylation of the second exon, in a region that overlapped a CpG island and an ER-binding site. Hypermethylation of this region, which occurred in 10% of primary tumors, provided a stronger predictor of patient survival (P = 0.019) when compared with gene expression (n = 522). In multiple cell models of acquired endocrine resistance, BCL-2 expression was significantly reduced in parallel with increased DNA methylation of the exon 2 region. The reduction of BCL-2 expression in endocrine-resistant cells lowered their apoptotic threshold to antimitotic agents: nocodazole, paclitaxel, and the PLK1 inhibitor BI2536. This phenomenon could be reversed with ectopic expression of BCL-2, and rescued with the BCL-2 inhibitor ABT-737. Collectively, these data imply that BCL-2 hypermethylation provides a robust biomarker of response to current and next-generation cytotoxic agents in endocrine-resistant breast cancer, which may prove beneficial in directing therapeutic strategy for patients with nonresectable, metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Stone
- Corresponding Author: Andrew Stone, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, L9 TKCC, 370 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
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Campone M, Bachelot T, Gnant M, Deleu I, Rugo HS, Pistilli B, Noguchi S, Shtivelband M, Pritchard KI, Provencher L, Burris HA, Hart L, Melichar B, Hortobagyi GN, Arena F, Baselga J, Panneerselvam A, Héniquez A, El-Hashimyt M, Taran T, Sahmoud T, Piccart M. Effect of visceral metastases on the efficacy and safety of everolimus in postmenopausal women with advanced breast cancer: subgroup analysis from the BOLERO-2 study. Eur J Cancer 2013; 49:2621-32. [PMID: 23735704 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2013.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Everolimus (EVE; an inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin [mTOR]) enhances treatment options for postmenopausal women with hormone-receptor-positive (HR(+)), human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-negative (HER2(-)) advanced breast cancer (ABC) who progress on a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI). This is especially true for patients with visceral disease, which is associated with poor prognosis. The BOLERO-2 (Breast cancer trial of OraLEveROlimus-2) trial showed that combination treatment with EVE and exemestane (EXE) versus placebo (PBO)+EXE prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) by both investigator (7.8 versus 3.2 months, respectively) and independent (11.0 versus 4.1 months, respectively) central assessment in postmenopausal women with HR(+), HER2(-) ABC recurring/progressing during/after NSAI therapy. The BOLERO-2 trial included a substantial proportion of patients with visceral metastases (56%). METHODS Prespecified exploratory subgroup analysis conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of EVE+EXE versus PBO+EXE in a prospectively defined subgroup of patients with visceral metastases. FINDINGS At a median follow-up of 18 months, EVE+EXE significantly prolonged median PFS compared with PBO+EXE both in patients with visceral metastases (N=406; 6.8 versus 2.8 months) and in those without visceral metastases (N=318; 9.9 versus 4.2 months). Improvements in PFS with EVE+EXE versus PBO+EXE were also observed in patients with visceral metastases regardless of Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS). Patients with visceral metastases and ECOG PS 0 had a median PFS of 6.8 months with EVE+EXE versus 2.8 months with PBO+EXE. Among patients with visceral metastases and ECOG PS ≥1, EVE+EXE treatment more than tripled median PFS compared with PBO+EXE (6.8 versus 1.5 months). INTERPRETATION Adding EVE to EXE markedly extended PFS by ≥4 months among patients with HR(+) HER2(-) ABC regardless of the presence of visceral metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Campone
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest-René Gauducheau, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie, Boulevard Jacques Monod, 44805 Saint Herblain-Nantes cedex, France.
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38
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Gnant M. Overcoming endocrine resistance in breast cancer: importance of mTOR inhibition. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2013; 12:1579-89. [PMID: 23253223 DOI: 10.1586/era.12.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Approaches to treatment for many patients with advanced breast cancer are based on the expression of specific receptors. Treatments targeting the hormone receptor (typically the estrogen receptor) are used to reduce signaling through these receptors and thereby inhibit proliferation of breast cancer cells expressing these receptors. Although these treatments are effective for many patients, resistance to treatment is common. Recent clinical trials suggest that using multiple agents targeting the same pathway is not sufficient to overcome resistance. New treatment approaches are needed for these patients. Inhibition of the mTOR signaling pathway, a key point of confluence for multiple signaling cascades, offers a promising approach to restoring sensitivity to endocrine therapy in breast cancer. This article reviews the current data from studies of mTOR inhibitors everolimus and temsirolimus in combination with endocrine therapies to overcome treatment resistance in patients with advanced breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Gnant
- Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Wien, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, Austria.
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39
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Peterson ME. Management of adverse events in patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer treated with everolimus: observations from a phase III clinical trial. Support Care Cancer 2013; 21:2341-9. [PMID: 23686401 PMCID: PMC3699701 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-013-1826-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Everolimus is a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor approved for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma associated with tuberous sclerosis complex, renal angiomyolipoma and tuberous sclerosis complex, and, in combination with exemestane, for hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative advanced breast cancer after failure of treatment with letrozole or anastrozole. Results from the phase III BOLERO-2 trial demonstrated that everolimus in combination with exemestane provided significant clinical benefit to patients with advanced hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Although everolimus is generally well tolerated, as with most therapies administered in an advanced cancer setting, drug-related adverse events (AEs) inevitably occur. Most common AEs observed in the everolimus studies include stomatitis, rash, infection, noninfectious pneumonitis, and hyperglycemia. Clinical awareness and early identification of such AEs by oncology nurses are essential to dosing (interruptions, reduction, and treatment discontinuation); quality of life; and, ultimately, patient outcomes. Because everolimus has already been shown to significantly improve clinical efficacy in patients with advanced breast cancer, a proactive approach to the practical management of AEs associated with this mTOR inhibitor as well as other most common AEs observed in this patient population has been reviewed and outlined here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E Peterson
- Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, 2940 Banner Gateway Drive, Suite 400, Gilbert, AZ 85234, USA.
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40
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Martin LA, André F, Campone M, Bachelot T, Jerusalem G. mTOR inhibitors in advanced breast cancer: ready for prime time? Cancer Treat Rev 2013; 39:742-52. [PMID: 23557794 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2013.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Revised: 02/15/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Current therapeutic approaches for advanced breast cancer frequently target receptors mediating cell survival and proliferation, such as the estrogen receptor and/or progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2. Although these approaches are effective for many patients, treatment resistance is common. Therefore, new treatment approaches are needed for patients with advanced breast cancer. Mammalian target of rapamycin is a highly conserved serine-threonine kinase that acts as a major signaling hub that integrates and synergizes with cellular proliferation, survival, and/or motility signals mediated by estrogen receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2, and other receptor tyrosine kinases. Dysregulation of mammalian target of rapamycin signaling occurs in various tumor types, including breast cancer, and has been associated with cancer pathogenesis, disease progression, and treatment resistance. Recent clinical trials show that combined inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin and estrogen receptor represents an effective strategy for treating hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer progressing on nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor therapy, and data from ongoing trials combining mammalian target of rapamycin inhibition with human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-targeted therapy are awaited. This review focuses on the molecular rationale underlying strategies to enhance sensitivity to treatment in hormone receptor-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-positive advanced breast cancer, the clinical efficacy of such approaches, and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley-Ann Martin
- Breakthrough Breast Cancer Centre, Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom.
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Wardell SE, Nelson ER, Chao CA, McDonnell DP. Bazedoxifene exhibits antiestrogenic activity in animal models of tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer: implications for treatment of advanced disease. Clin Cancer Res 2013; 19:2420-31. [PMID: 23536434 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-3771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is compelling evidence to suggest that drugs that function as pure estrogen receptor (ER-α) antagonists, or that downregulate the expression of ER-α, would have clinical use in the treatment of advanced tamoxifen- and aromatase-resistant breast cancer. Although such compounds are currently in development, we reasoned, based on our understanding of ER-α pharmacology, that there may already exist among the most recently developed selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM) compounds that would have usage as breast cancer therapeutics. Thus, our objective was to identify among available SERMs those with unique pharmacologic activities and to evaluate their potential clinical use with predictive models of advanced breast cancer. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN A validated molecular profiling technology was used to classify clinically relevant SERMs based on their impact on ER-α conformation. The functional consequences of these observed mechanistic differences on (i) gene expression, (ii) receptor stability, and (iii) activity in cellular and animal models of advanced endocrine-resistant breast cancer were assessed. RESULTS The high-affinity SERM bazedoxifene was shown to function as a pure ER-α antagonist in cellular models of breast cancer and effectively inhibited the growth of both tamoxifen-sensitive and -resistant breast tumor xenografts. Interestingly, bazedoxifene induced a unique conformational change in ER-α that resulted in its proteasomal degradation, although the latter activity was dispensable for its antagonist efficacy. CONCLUSION Bazedoxifene was recently approved for use in the European Union for the treatment of osteoporosis and thus may represent a near-term therapeutic option for patients with advanced breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne E Wardell
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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42
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Bachelot T, Bourgier C, Cropet C, Ray-Coquard I, Ferrero JM, Freyer G, Abadie-Lacourtoisie S, Eymard JC, Debled M, Spaëth D, Legouffe E, Allouache D, El Kouri C, Pujade-Lauraine E. Randomized phase II trial of everolimus in combination with tamoxifen in patients with hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative metastatic breast cancer with prior exposure to aromatase inhibitors: a GINECO study. J Clin Oncol 2012; 30:2718-24. [PMID: 22565002 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2011.39.0708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 520] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Cross-talk between signal transduction pathways likely contributes to hormone resistance in metastatic breast cancer (mBC). Everolimus, an oral inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin, has restored sensitivity in endocrine-resistance models and shown anticancer activity in early-phase mBC clinical trials. This analysis evaluated efficacy and safety of everolimus in combination with tamoxifen in patients with mBC resistant to aromatase inhibitors (AIs). PATIENTS AND METHODS This open-label, phase II study randomly assigned postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative, AI-resistant mBC to tamoxifen 20 mg/d plus everolimus 10 mg/d (n = 54) or tamoxifen 20 mg/d alone (n = 57). Randomization was stratified by primary and secondary hormone resistance. Primary end point was clinical benefit rate (CBR), defined as the percentage of all patients with a complete or partial response or stable disease at 6 months. No formal statistical comparison between groups was planned. RESULTS The 6-month CBR was 61% (95% CI, 47 to 74) with tamoxifen plus everolimus and 42% (95% CI, 29 to 56) with tamoxifen alone. Time to progression (TTP) increased from 4.5 months with tamoxifen alone to 8.6 months with tamoxifen plus everolimus, corresponding to a 46% reduction in risk of progression with the combination (hazard ratio [HR], 0.54; 95% CI, 0.36 to 0.81). Risk of death was reduced by 55% with tamoxifen plus everolimus versus tamoxifen alone (HR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.24 to 0.81). The main toxicities associated with tamoxifen plus everolimus were fatigue (72% v 53% with tamoxifen alone), stomatitis (56% v 7%), rash (44% v 7%), anorexia (43% v 18%), and diarrhea (39% v 11%). CONCLUSION This study suggests that tamoxifen plus everolimus increased CBR, TTP, and overall survival compared with tamoxifen alone in postmenopausal women with AI-resistant mBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Bachelot
- Département de Cancérologie Médicale et Unité INSERM U590, Centre Léon Bérard, 28 rue Laënnec, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France.
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43
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Fulvestrant Revisited: Efficacy and Safety of the 500-mg Dose. Clin Breast Cancer 2011; 11:204-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2011.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2010] [Revised: 01/20/2011] [Accepted: 02/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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44
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Wardell SE, Marks JR, McDonnell DP. The turnover of estrogen receptor α by the selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) fulvestrant is a saturable process that is not required for antagonist efficacy. Biochem Pharmacol 2011; 82:122-30. [PMID: 21501600 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2011.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2010] [Revised: 03/29/2011] [Accepted: 03/31/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It has become apparent of late that even in tamoxifen and/or aromatase resistant breast cancers, ERα remains a bona fide therapeutic target. Not surprisingly, therefore, there has been considerable interest in developing Selective ER Degraders (SERDs), compounds that target the receptor for degradation. Currently, ICI 182,780 (ICI, fulvestrant) is the only SERD approved for the treatment of breast cancer. However, the poor pharmaceutical properties of this injectable drug and its lack of superiority over second line aromatase inhibitors in late stage breast cancer have negatively impacted its clinical use. These findings have provided the impetus to develop second generation, orally bioavailable SERDs with which quantitative turnover of ERα in tumors can be achieved. Interestingly however, the contribution of SERD activity to fulvestrant efficacy is unclear, making it difficult to define the characteristics desired of the next generation of ER antagonists. It is of significance therefore, that we have determined that the antagonist activity of ICI and its ability to induce ERα degradation are not coupled processes. Specifically, our results indicate that it is the ability of ICI to interact with ERα and to (a) competitively displace estradiol and (b) induce a conformational change in ER incompatible with transcriptional activation that are likely to be the most important pharmacological characteristics of this drug. Collectively, these data argue for a renewed emphasis on the development of high affinity, orally bioavailable pure antagonists and suggest that SERD activity though proven effective may not be required for ERα antagonism in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne E Wardell
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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Foster TS, Miller JD, Boye ME, Blieden MB, Gidwani R, Russell MW. The economic burden of metastatic breast cancer: a systematic review of literature from developed countries. Cancer Treat Rev 2011; 37:405-15. [PMID: 21477928 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2010.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2010] [Revised: 12/21/2010] [Accepted: 12/23/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Breast cancer, the most common malignant cancer among women in Western countries, has poor prognosis following metastasis. New therapies potentially extend survival, but their value is questioned when benefits are incremental and expensive. The objective of our study was to understand the economic impact of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) and its treatment, and to evaluate the designs of these studies. METHODS We systematically reviewed the MEDLINE-indexed, English-language literature, identifying 31 articles on the economic evaluation of MBC in 10 developed countries, including studies of per-patient costs, gross national costs, and cost-effectiveness models. We also included health technology assessments (HTAs) from government and regulatory agencies. RESULTS Total per-patient costs of MBC are only available for Sweden ($17,301-$48,169 annually, depending on patient age (2005 USD)). Most economic analyses of per-patient direct costs originate from the US; across all countries, data indicate that this burden is substantial. Gross national costs of MBC are available only for the UK (cost of incident MBC cases is estimated to be $22 million annually (2002 GBP)). Many cost-effectiveness analyses suggest that a number of new and established treatments are cost-effective compared to standard care in various countries, but many offer small increments in survival. The cost-effectiveness of trastuzumab, capecitabine, and nab-paclitaxel has been evaluated in many recent studies. CONCLUSION Most economic evaluations of MBC have utilized secondary rather than primary data, and have used scenarios and assumptions which may be inaccurate or outdated. The quality of evidence disseminated to decision-makers could be improved by adherence to best practices in cost-effectiveness analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talia S Foster
- Health Economic Research & Quality of Life Evaluation Services (HERQuLES), Abt Bio-Pharma Solutions, Inc., Lexington, MA 02421, USA.
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Abstract
The estrogen receptor (ER) pathway plays a pivotal role in breast cancer development and progression. Endocrine therapy to block the ER pathway is highly effective, but its usefulness is limited by common intrinsic and acquired resistance. Multiple mechanisms responsible for endocrine resistance have been proposed and include deregulation of various components of the ER pathway itself, alterations in cell cycle and cell survival signaling molecules, and the activation of escape pathways that can provide tumors with alternative proliferative and survival stimuli. Among these, increased expression or signaling of growth factor receptor pathways, especially the EGFR/HER2 pathway, has been associated with both experimental and clinical endocrine therapy resistance. New treatment combinations targeting both ER and growth factor receptor signaling to block the crosstalk between these pathways and eliminate escape routes have been proven highly effective in preclinical models. Results of recent clinical studies, while partly supporting this approach, also highlight the need to better identify a priori the patients whose tumors are most likely to benefit from these specific cotargeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Kent Osborne
- Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Lester & Sue Smith Breast Center, Departments of Medicine and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, BCM 600, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rachel Schiff
- Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Lester & Sue Smith Breast Center, Departments of Medicine and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, BCM 600, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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47
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Nath A, Sitruk-Ware R. Pharmacology and clinical applications of selective estrogen receptor modulators. Climacteric 2009; 12:188-205. [PMID: 19387883 DOI: 10.1080/13697130802657896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Compounds that can be described as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) have expanded dramatically over the past two decades. The ability of SERMs to act as estrogens in certain tissues while remaining inert or acting as an anti-estrogen in other tissues has opened up opportunities for treating specific estrogen-modulated diseases without accepting the risk of systemic estrogen activity. SERM development has resulted in significant therapeutic advances for breast cancer, osteoporosis and potentially other diseases associated with the menopause. After the publication of the Women's Health Initiative, interest in compound selectivity that reduces menopausal symptoms while protecting bone, breast, uterus and the heart has increased. Future SERMs may also have a therapeutic profile that can be tailored to specific patient populations, including men. This review paper summarizes the characteristics of different SERMs from various pharmacological categories and the feasibility and scope of their use for a large range of disease/health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nath
- Population Council, New York, NY 10065, USA
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Santen RJ, Brodie H, Simpson ER, Siiteri PK, Brodie A. History of aromatase: saga of an important biological mediator and therapeutic target. Endocr Rev 2009; 30:343-75. [PMID: 19389994 DOI: 10.1210/er.2008-0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 284] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Aromatase is the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of androgens to estrogens. Initial studies of its enzymatic activity and function took place in an environment focused on estrogen as a component of the birth control pill. At an early stage, investigators recognized that inhibition of this enzyme could have major practical applications for treatment of hormone-dependent breast cancer, alterations of ovarian and endometrial function, and treatment of benign disorders such as gynecomastia. Two general approaches ultimately led to the development of potent and selective aromatase inhibitors. One targeted the enzyme using analogs of natural steroidal substrates to work out the relationships between structure and function. The other approach initially sought to block adrenal function as a treatment for breast cancer but led to the serendipitous finding that a nonsteroidal P450 steroidogenesis inhibitor, aminoglutethimide, served as a potent but nonselective aromatase inhibitor. Proof of the therapeutic concept of aromatase inhibition involved a variety of studies with aminoglutethimide and the selective steroidal inhibitor, formestane. The requirement for even more potent and selective inhibitors led to intensive molecular studies to identify the structure of aromatase, to development of high-sensitivity estrogen assays, and to "mega" clinical trials of the third-generation aromatase inhibitors, letrozole, anastrozole, and exemestane, which are now in clinical use in breast cancer. During these studies, unexpected findings led investigators to appreciate the important role of estrogens in males as well as in females and in multiple organs, particularly the bone and brain. These studies identified the important regulatory properties of aromatase acting in an autocrine, paracrine, intracrine, neurocrine, and juxtacrine fashion and the organ-specific enhancers and promoters controlling its transcription. The saga of these studies of aromatase and the ultimate utilization of inhibitors as highly effective treatments of breast cancer and for use in reproductive disorders serves as the basis for this first Endocrine Reviews history manuscript.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Santen
- University of Virginia Health System, Division of Endocrinology, P.O. Box 801416, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, USA.
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Combining Fulvestrant (Faslodex™) with Continued Oestrogen Suppression in Endocrine-sensitive Advanced Breast Cancer: the SoFEA Trial. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2008; 20:321-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2008.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2008] [Accepted: 02/12/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe recent developments in hormonal therapy for breast cancer, focusing on SERMs and AIs. DATA SOURCES Published journal articles and texts, research reports and monographs, government publications, and professional organization guidelines. CONCLUSION Research continues to identify the effectiveness of hormonal therapy in breast cancer, including adjuvant treatment in early and advanced stages as well as a chemopreventive measure. The individual drug profile must be evaluated for safety and efficacy, and the impact on QOL must be considered. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE It is imperative that oncology nurses understand the physiology, application, risks, and benefits of hormonal therapies.
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