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Abstract
Non-communicable diseases contribute to 71% of the deaths worldwide, of which cancers rank second after cardiovascular diseases. Among all the cancers, head and neck cancers (HNC) are consequential in augmenting the global cancer incidence as well as mortality. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are emphatic for the matter that they serve as biomarkers aiding the analysis of tumor progression and metastasis as well as diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic progression in the patients. The extensive researches on HNC have made significant furtherance in numerous targeted therapies, but for the escalating therapeutic resistance. This review explicates RTKs in HNC, their signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis, metastasis and stemness induction, the association of non-coding RNAs with RTKs, an overview of RTK based therapy and associated resistance in HNC, as well as a sneak peek into the HPV positive HNC and its therapy. The review extrapolates the cardinal role of RTKs and RTK based therapy as superior to other existing therapeutic interventions for HNC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revathy Nadhan
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Priya Srinivas
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India.
| | - M Radhakrishna Pillai
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
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Abstract
Resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs exemplifies the greatest hindrance to effective treatment of cancer patients. The molecular mechanisms responsible have been investigated for over 50 years and have revealed the lack of a single cause, but instead, multiple mechanisms including induced expression of membrane transporters that pump drugs out of cells (multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotype), changes in the glutathione system, and altered metabolism. Treatment of cancer patients/cancer cells with chemotherapeutic agents and/or molecularly targeted drugs is accompanied by acquisition of resistance to the treatment administered. Chemotherapeutic agent resistance was initially assumed to be due to induction of mutations leading to a resistant phenotype. While this has occurred for molecularly targeted drugs, it is clear that drugs selectively targeting tyrosine kinases (TKs) cause the acquisition of mutational changes and resistance to inhibition. The first TK to be targeted, Bcr-Abl, led to the generation of several drugs including imatinib, dasatinib, and sunitinib that provided a rich understanding of this phenomenon. It became clear that mutations alone were not the only cause of resistance. Additional mechanisms were involved, including alternative splicing, alternative/compensatory signaling pathways, and epigenetic changes. This review will focus on resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), receptor TK (RTK)-directed antibodies, and antibodies that inactivate specific RTK ligands. New approaches and concepts aimed at avoiding the generation of drug resistance will be examined. Many RTKs, including the IGF-1R, are dependence receptors that induce ligand-independent apoptosis. How this signaling paradigm has implications on therapeutic strategies will also be considered.
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Vishwamitra D, George SK, Shi P, Kaseb AO, Amin HM. Type I insulin-like growth factor receptor signaling in hematological malignancies. Oncotarget 2018; 8:1814-1844. [PMID: 27661006 PMCID: PMC5352101 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling system plays key roles in the establishment and progression of different types of cancer. In agreement with this idea, substantial evidence has shown that the type I IGF receptor (IGF-IR) and its primary ligand IGF-I are important for maintaining the survival of malignant cells of hematopoietic origin. In this review, we discuss current understanding of the role of IGF-IR signaling in cancer with a focus on the hematological neoplasms. We also address the emergence of IGF-IR as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of different types of cancer including plasma cell myeloma, leukemia, and lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deeksha Vishwamitra
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Suraj Konnath George
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ping Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Ahmed O Kaseb
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hesham M Amin
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
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Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis in cancerogenesis. MUTATION RESEARCH-REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2016; 772:78-104. [PMID: 28528692 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2016.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 08/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Determination of the role of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) family components in carcinogenesis of several human tumors is based on numerous epidemiological and pre-clinical studies, experiments in vivo and in vitro and on attempts at application of drugs affecting the IGF axis. Investigative hypotheses in original studies were based on biological functions manifested by the entire family of IGF (ligands, receptors, linking proteins, adaptor molecules). In the context of carcinogenesis the most important functions of IGF family involve intensification of proliferation and inhibition of cell apoptosis and effect on cell transformation through synthesis of several regulatory proteins. IGF axis controls survival and influences on metastases of cells. Interactions of IGF axis components may be of a direct or indirect nature. The direct effects are linked to activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, in which the initiating role is first of all played by IGF-1 and IGF-1R. Activity of this signaling pathway leads to an increased mitogenesis, cell cycle progression, and protection against different apoptotic stresses. Indirect effects of the axis depend on interactions between IGF and other molecules important for cancer etiology (e.g. sex hormones, products of suppressor genes, viruses, and other GFs) and the style of life (nutrition, physical activity). From the clinical point of view, components of IGF system are first of all considered as diagnostic serous and/or tissue biomarkers of a given cancer, prognostic factors and attractive target of modern anti-tumor therapies. Several mechanisms in which IGF system components act in the process of carcinogenesis need to be clarified, mainly due to multifactorial etiology of the neoplasms. Pin-pointing of the role played in carcinogenesis by any single signaling pathway remains particularly difficult. The aim of this review is to summarize the current data of several epidemiological studies, experiments in vitro and on animal models, to increase our understanding of the complex role of IGF family components in the most common human cancers.
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Matsumoto F, Ohba S, Fujimaki M, Ikeda K. The value of insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor for predicting early glottic carcinoma response to radiotherapy. Auris Nasus Larynx 2016; 43:440-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anl.2015.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Raju U, Molkentine DP, Valdecanas DR, Deorukhkar A, Mason KA, Buchholz TA, Meyn RE, Ang KK, Skinner H. Inhibition of EGFR or IGF-1R signaling enhances radiation response in head and neck cancer models but concurrent inhibition has no added benefit. Cancer Med 2014; 4:65-74. [PMID: 25355701 PMCID: PMC4312119 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2014] [Revised: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Interaction between the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and the insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1R) has been well established in many cancer types. We investigated the effects of cetuximab (EGFR antibody) and IMC-A12 (IGF-1R antibody) on the response of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) to radiation therapy (RT). The effects of cetuximab and IMC-A12 on cell viability and radiosensitivity were determined by clonogenic cell survival assay. Formation of nuclear γ-H2AX and 53BP1 foci was monitored by immunofluorescence. Alterations in target signaling were analyzed by Western blots. In vivo tumor growth delay assay was performed to determine the efficacy of triple therapy with IMC-A12, cetuximab, and RT. In vitro data showed that cetuximab differentially affected the survival and the radiosensitivity of HNSCC cells. Cetuximab suppressed DNA repair that was evident by the prolonged presence of nuclear γ-H2AX and 53BP1 foci. IMC-A12 did not have any effect on the cell survival. However, it increased the radiosensitivity of one of the cell lines. EGFR inhibition increased IGF-1R expression levels and also the association between EGFR and IGF-1R. Addition of IMC-A12 to cetuximab did not increase the radiosensitivity of these cells. Tumor xenografts exhibited enhanced response to RT in the presence of either cetuximab or IMC-A12. Concurrent treatment regimen failed to further enhance the tumor response to cetuximab and/or RT. Taken together our data suggest that concomitant inhibition of both EGFR and IGF-1R pathways did not yield additional therapeutic benefit in overcoming resistance to RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uma Raju
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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Wilky BA, Rudek MA, Ahmed S, Laheru DA, Cosgrove D, Donehower RC, Nelkin B, Ball D, Doyle LA, Chen H, Ye X, Bigley G, Womack C, Azad NS. A phase I trial of vertical inhibition of IGF signalling using cixutumumab, an anti-IGF-1R antibody, and selumetinib, an MEK 1/2 inhibitor, in advanced solid tumours. Br J Cancer 2014; 112:24-31. [PMID: 25268371 PMCID: PMC4453594 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2014.515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Revised: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We completed a phase I clinical trial to test the safety and toxicity of combined treatment with cixutumumab (anti-IGF-1R antibody) and selumetinib (MEK 1/2 inhibitor). METHODS Patients with advanced solid tumours, refractory to standard therapy received selumetinib hydrogen sulphate capsules orally twice daily, and cixutumumab intravenously on days 1 and 15 of each 28-day cycle. The study used a 3+3 design, with a dose-finding cohort followed by an expansion cohort at the maximally tolerated dose that included pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic correlative studies. RESULTS Thirty patients were enrolled, with 16 in the dose-finding cohort and 14 in the expansion cohort. Grade 3 or greater toxicities included nausea and vomiting, anaemia, CVA, hypertension, hyperglycaemia, and ophthalmic symptoms. The maximally tolerated combination dose was 50 mg twice daily of selumetinib and 12 mg kg(-1) every 2 weeks of cixutumumab. Two patients achieved a partial response (one unconfirmed), including a patient with BRAF wild-type thyroid carcinoma, and a patient with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, and six patients achieved time to progression of >6 months, including patients with thyroid carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. Comparison of pre- and on-treatment biopsies showed significant suppression of pERK and pS6 activity with treatment. CONCLUSIONS Our study of anti-IGF-1R antibody cixutumumab and MEK 1/2 inhibitor selumetinib showed that the combination is safe and well-tolerated at these doses, with preliminary evidence of clinical benefit and pharmacodynamic evidence of target inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Wilky
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - M A Rudek
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - S Ahmed
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - D A Laheru
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - D Cosgrove
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - R C Donehower
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - B Nelkin
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - D Ball
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - L A Doyle
- National Cancer Institute, 9609 Medical Center Drive, MSC 9379, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - H Chen
- National Cancer Institute, 9609 Medical Center Drive, MSC 9379, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - X Ye
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - G Bigley
- Oncology iMed, AstraZeneca, Mereside, Alderley Park, Maccelsfield, Cheshire SK104TG, UK
| | - C Womack
- Oncology iMed, AstraZeneca, Mereside, Alderley Park, Maccelsfield, Cheshire SK104TG, UK
| | - N S Azad
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
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Matsumoto F, Fujimaki M, Ohba S, Kojima M, Yokoyama J, Ikeda K. Relationship between insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor and human papillomavirus in patients with oropharyngeal cancer. Head Neck 2014; 37:977-81. [PMID: 24700733 DOI: 10.1002/hed.23702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Revised: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is associated with better prognosis than HPV-negative oropharyngeal SCC. The purpose of this study was to assess the expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) in patients with oropharyngeal SCC, its relationship to HPV status and various clinical parameters, and its relationship with clinical outcome. METHODS The study subjects were 59 patients with oropharyngeal SCC. IGF-1R expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in paraffin-embedded tumor tissues. HPV status was evaluated by in situ hybridization (ISH) in the same tissues. RESULTS IGF-1R did not correlate with clinical parameters, but IGF-1R expression was more common in HPV-negative tumors than in HPV-positive tumors. The prognosis was poorer in patients of the IGF-1R-positive group than in the IGF-1R-negative group. CONCLUSION The results suggested that IGF-1R expression in oropharyngeal SCC correlated with poor prognosis in HPV-negative patients. Treatment targeting IGF-1R could potentially improve the survival of patients with HPV-negative oropharyngeal SCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiko Matsumoto
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuhisa Fujimaki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Ohba
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masataka Kojima
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junkichi Yokoyama
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsuhisa Ikeda
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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DU Y, Zheng H, Wang J, Ren Y, Li M, Gong C, Xu F, Yang C. Metformin inhibits histone H2B monoubiquitination and downstream gene transcription in human breast cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2014; 8:809-812. [PMID: 25009658 PMCID: PMC4081422 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2014.2158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin, one of the most widely prescribed antihyperglycemic drugs, has recently received increasing attention for its potential effects with regard to cancer prevention and treatment. However, the mechanisms behind the suppression of cancer cell growth by metformin remain far from completely understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether metformin could regulate histone modification and its downstream gene transcription, and its potential function in inhibiting breast cancer cell proliferation. A T47D cell proliferation curve was determined by cell counting following metformin treatment with differing doses or time courses. The cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry with propidium iodide staining. Histone H2B monoubiquitination was evaluated by western blotting subsequent to histone extraction. The histone H2B monoubiquitination downstream gene expression level was determined by quantitative PCR. The results showed that metformin changed the cell-cycle check-point and inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. AMPK was activated and histone H2B monoubiquitination and downstream gene transcription were inhibited following metformin treatment in the T47D cells. The effect of metformin on T47D cell proliferation was dependent on AMPK activity. It was concluded that metformin can suppress breast cancer cell growth by the activation of AMPK and the inhibition of histone H2B monoubiquitination and downstream gene transcription. This study reveals a novel potential mechanism of cancer cell growth suppression by metformin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu DU
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Haiyan Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology, Wuhan Integrated TCM and Western Medicine Hospital (Wuhan No. 1 Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Jiang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Ye Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Mi Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Chen Gong
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Caihong Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
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Teng X, Ma L, Kyrkanides S, Raja V, Trochesset D, Brouxhon SM. Modulation of RTK by sEcad: a putative mechanism for oncogenicity in oropharyngeal SCCs. Oral Dis 2014; 21:185-94. [PMID: 24612046 DOI: 10.1111/odi.12235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Heightened levels of sEcad are found in the serum of patients with cancer and correlate with an unfavorable prognosis and later-stages of disease. In this study, we explored whether sEcad is elevated in human OPSCC specimens and FaDu cells. Additionally, we investigated sEcad-EGFR and sEcad-IGF-1R interactions and performed a functional analysis of sEcad in OPSCC cancers. MATERIALS AND METHODS sEcad, EGFR, and IGF-1R levels were examined in human OPSCC specimens and cells by immunoblotting. sEcad-EGFR and sEcad-IGF-1R interactions were examined by immunoprecipitation and immunoblot assays. Levels of sEcad on EGFR and IGF-1R pathway components were evaluated by IB. The effects of sEcad on OPSCC proliferation, migration, and invasion were assessed using standard cellular assays. RESULTS Statistical analysis demonstrated that sEcad levels were significantly higher in OPSCC primary tumors and cells compared with normal controls. IP studies indicated that sEcad associated with EGFR and IGF-1R, and addition of sEcad resulted in a statistically significant increase in downstream signaling. Finally, cell-based assays demonstrated enhanced sEcad-induced proliferation, migration, and invasion, which was blocked by EGFR and IGF-1R inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that sEcad may play an important role in OPSCC oncogenicity via its interaction and activation of EGFR and IGF-1R.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Teng
- Department of Oral Biology and Pathology, School of Dental Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
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Tang J, Li J, Zeng G, Tang Y, Tian W, He J, York JP, Xia X. Antisense oligonucleotide suppression of human IGF-1R inhibits the growth and survival of in vitro cultured epithelial ovarian cancer cells. J Ovarian Res 2013; 6:71. [PMID: 24103397 PMCID: PMC3851551 DOI: 10.1186/1757-2215-6-71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preclinical evaluation of the anti-neoplastic activity of antisense oligonucleotide (AS) suppression of human insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGF-IR) in human epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Methods Ovarian cancer cells from 36 patients with EOC were investigated under serum-free tissue culture conditions. IGF-I production was evaluated by standard ELISA. IGF-IR and phosphorylated IRS-1, AKT, and MAP kinase expression and protein levels were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Cancer cell growth and proliferation assays were performed in triplicates using MTT assay. Apoptosis was evaluated by TUNNEL assay. Results All ovarian cancer tissue samples tested produced IGF-I and expressed IGF-IR, supporting the existence of an autocrine loop. Treatment of primary ovarian cancer cell lines with an IGF-1R AS inhibited growth and proliferation and decreased clonogenicity in soft agar assay. AS treatment was demonstrated to inhibit the expression of IGF-1R and decrease the concentration of phosphorylated IRS-1, AKT, and MAP kinase signaling protein downstream of the IGF-IR. We also observed that the IGF-1R AS sensitized cancer cell lines to cisplatin in vitro through the PI3K pathway. Conclusions IGF-IR enhances the proliferation and tumorigenicity of human ovarian cancer cells and inhibition of IGF-IR by AS oligonucleotide treatment potentiates the activity of cisplatin in vitro. Therefore, IGF-1R is a potential molecular target in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Tang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xianjiahu Rd, Changsha, Hunan 410006, China.
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Fakih M. Targeting mechanisms of resistance to anti-EGF receptor therapy in KRAS wild-type colorectal cancer: the path to more personalized medicine. Future Oncol 2013; 9:551-60. [DOI: 10.2217/fon.12.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The targeting of EGF receptors (EGFRs) in metastatic colorectal cancer has improved the outcome of patients with KRAS wild-type tumors. However, these improvements have been modest and do not translate across all patients with KRAS wild-type tumors. Better understanding of the EGFR pathway has led to the exploration of variable novel potential biomarkers of resistance and response to anti-EGFR therapy. This manuscript will focus on recently identified mechanisms of resistance to anti-EGFR therapy in KRAS wild-type colorectal cancer. Subsequently, an assessment will be presented on how the current understanding of some of these mechanisms of resistance has led, and will lead, to novel therapeutic opportunities in the management of colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwan Fakih
- City of Hope, 1500 E Duarte Road, Building 51, Room 127, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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Haisa M. The type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor signalling system and targeted tyrosine kinase inhibition in cancer. J Int Med Res 2013; 41:253-64. [PMID: 23569026 DOI: 10.1177/0300060513476585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) signalling plays a critical role in normal cell growth, and in cancer development and progression. IGF1R and the insulin-like growth factors 1 and 2 (IGF1 and IGF2) are involved in various aspects of the malignant phenotype, suggesting that IGF1R is a potential target for cancer therapy. IGF1R is particularly important in the establishment and maintenance of the transformed phenotype, in mediating proliferation, and for the survival of tumour cells with anchorage-independent growth. IGF1R also exerts antiapoptotic activity and has a substantial influence on the control of the cell and body size. This property enables transformed cells to form macroscopic tumours and to survive the process of detachment required for metastasis. Pharmaceutical companies are investigating molecules that target IGF1R, including specific low molecular weight tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, both of which possess various advantages and display different activity profiles. This review article focuses on the preclinical and clinical development of low molecular weight IGF1R tyrosine kinase inhibitors. It is critical to pursue a thorough molecular analysis of the metabolic activity of IGF1R to avoid possible side-effects of its inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minoru Haisa
- Department of Surgery, Okayama City Hospital, Okayama, Japan.
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Jameson MJ, Taniguchi LE, VanKoevering KK, Stuart MM, Francom CR, Mendez RE, Beckler AD, Carlson HT, Thomas CY, Khalil AA. Activation of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor alters p27 regulation by the epidermal growth factor receptor in oral squamous carcinoma cells. J Oral Pathol Med 2012; 42:332-8. [PMID: 23106397 DOI: 10.1111/jop.12014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs) commonly overexpress the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) exhibit poor efficacy clinically. Activation of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) induces resistance of OSCC cells to EGFR-TKIs in vitro. This study seeks to evaluate the changes in cell cycle status in OSCC cells in response to gefitinib and IGF1R activation. METHODS SCC-25 OSCC cells were used for in vitro analyses. RESULTS Gefitinib caused a 50% reduction in S-phase population, and IGF1R activation caused a 2.8-fold increase; combined treatment yielded a baseline S-phase population. Gefitinib treatment increased the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27, and this was not abrogated by IGF1R activation. pT157-p27 was noted by immunoblot to be decreased on gefitinib treatment, but this was reversed with IGF1R activation. T157 phosphorylation contributes to cytoplasmic localization of p27 where it can promote cell proliferation and cell motility. Using both subcellular fractionation and immunofluorescence microscopy techniques, IGF1R stimulation was noted to increase the relative cytoplasmic localization of p27; this persisted when combined with gefitinib. CONCLUSIONS IGF1R activation partially reverses the cell cycle arrest caused by gefitinib in OSCC cells. While IGF1R stimulation does not eliminate the gefitinib-induced increase in total p27, its phosphorylation state and subcellular localization are altered. This may contribute to the ability of the IGF1R to rescue OSCC cells from EGFR-TKI treatment and may have important implications for the use of p27 as a biomarker of cell cycle arrest and response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Jameson
- Division of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0713, USA.
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Present and Future of EGFR Inhibitors for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2012; 2012:986725. [PMID: 22545054 PMCID: PMC3321461 DOI: 10.1155/2012/986725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2011] [Accepted: 01/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Although EGFR is expressed at high levels in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) and mutations are extremely rare, monotherapy with EGFR inhibitors has shown limited success. The PI3kinase/Akt pathway is responsible for cellular survival, and inhibition of phosphatidylinositol (PI) synthesis has antiproliferative, anti-invasive, and antiangiogenesis effects on HNSCC. Molecular crosstalk has been observed between EGFR and IGF1R signaling through the PI3kinase/Akt pathway in HNSCC, as has molecular crosstalk between the NFκB and STAT3 signaling pathways. Therefore, the combination of an EGFR antagonist with an agent that inhibits the activation of both Akt and NFκB may overcome resistance to EGFR antagonists in HNSCC.
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Chen Z, Jin Y, Yu D, Wang A, Mahjabeen I, Wang C, Liu X, Zhou X. Down-regulation of the microRNA-99 family members in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Oral Oncol 2012; 48:686-91. [PMID: 22425712 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2012.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Revised: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 02/17/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES MicroRNA deregulation is a critical event in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Several microRNA profiling studies aimed at deciphering the microRNA signatures of HNSCC have been reported, but there tends to be poor agreement among studies. The objective of this study was to survey the published microRNA profiling studies on HNSCC, and to assess the commonly deregulated microRNAs in an independent sample set. MATERIALS AND METHODS Meta-analysis of 13 published microRNA profiling studies was performed to define microRNA signatures in HNSCC. Selected microRNAs (including members of miR-99 family) were evaluated in an independent set of HNSCC cases. The potential contributions of miR-99 family to the tumorigenesis of HNSCC were assessed by in vitro assays. RESULTS We identified 67 commonly deregulated microRNAs. The up-regulation of miR-21, miR-155, miR-130b, miR-223 and miR-31, and the down-regulation of miR-100, miR-99a and miR-375 were further validated in an independent set of HNSCC cases with quantitative RT-PCR. Among these validated microRNAs, miR-100 and miR-99a belong to the miR-99 family. Our in vitro study demonstrated that restoration of miR-100 to the HNSCC cell lines suppressed cell proliferation and migration, and enhanced apoptosis. Furthermore, ectopic transfection of miR-99 family members down-regulated the expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) genes. CONCLUSION In summary, we described a panel of frequently deregulated microRNAs in HNSCC, including members of miR-99 family. The deregulation of miR-99 family contributes to the tumorigenesis of HNSCC, in part by targeting IGF1R and mTOR signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zujian Chen
- Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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17
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Fidler MJ, Shersher DD, Borgia JA, Bonomi P. Targeting the insulin-like growth factor receptor pathway in lung cancer: problems and pitfalls. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2012; 4:51-60. [PMID: 22423264 PMCID: PMC3296080 DOI: 10.1177/1758834011427576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) pathway is a complex pathway involving interactions between membrane-bound receptors, ligands, binding proteins, downstream effectors, and other receptor tyrosine kinase signaling cascades. The IGF pathway has been identified as a potential therapeutic target in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) based on the following provocative factors. Preclinical observations in NSCLC have shown that this pathway is involved in tumor cell proliferation, survival, and invasiveness. In addition, IGF-1R protein expression is found in a significant number of non-small cell tumor specimens. Initial therapeutic efforts involved the development of monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors that target IGF-1R, a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase. Enthusiasm for targeting this pathway increased when a randomized phase II study showed that combining an anti-IGF-1R monoclonal antibody (figitumumab) with a platinum doublet resulted in a higher response rate and trends for superior progression-free survival and overall survival. Subsequently, a phase III study failed to confirm the promising results observed in the phase II trial. Currently, investigators are studying different monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinases targeting IGF-1R. In unselected patients, results presented thus far do not suggest efficacy of this agent. However, retrospective subgroup analyses suggest that circulating IGF-1 levels might identify patients who could benefit from treatment with an IGF-1R monoclonal antibody and may warrant further exploratory studies for predictive molecular markers. The purpose of this paper is to briefly discuss the IGF pathway and its relationship with other signaling pathways in lung cancer and to review the ongoing IGF clinical trials and efforts to identify predictive molecular markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Jo Fidler
- Section of Medical Oncology, Rush University Medical Center, 1725 West Harrison Street, Suite 821, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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18
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Huang F, Xu LA, Khambata-Ford S. Correlation between gene expression of IGF-1R pathway markers and cetuximab benefit in metastatic colorectal cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2012; 18:1156-66. [PMID: 22294722 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-11-1135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined potential correlations between markers related to the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) pathway and clinical benefit from the anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) monoclonal antibody cetuximab in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Gene expression profiles for 70 pretreatment specimens from metastatic lesions of patients with chemorefractory mCRC receiving cetuximab monotherapy were analyzed using 74 predefined Gene-Chip probesets representing 33 unique IGF-1R pathway markers to determine correlations with progression-free survival (PFS) and disease control rate. RESULTS Higher IGF-1R, higher GRB(7), and lower INSIG(2) expression were associated with longer PFS with cetuximab in univariate analyses, particularly in patients with wild-type K-Ras tumors: median, 122 versus 60 days (P = 0.01), 122 versus 57 days (P = 0.011), and 57 versus 156 days (P < 0.0001), favoring higher IGF-1R, higher GRB(7), and lower INSIG(2) expression, respectively. Lower IGF-1 expression was associated with a PFS benefit with cetuximab, whereas lower IGFBP(3) and INSR expression levels showed trends for a PFS benefit. Lower INSIG(2) expression (vs. higher expression) was associated with greater PFS in the high epiregulin-expressing group (P = 0.001), but not in the low-expressing cohort suggesting an effect independent from the previously reported effect of epiregulin expression. Lower INSIG(2) expression was also associated with higher disease control rate in the overall population (51.4% vs. 11.4%; P = 0.001) and wild-type K-Ras subset (76.2% vs. 18.2%; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that markers of the IGF-1R pathway may play a role in predicting benefit from cetuximab therapy in mCRC. Additional clinical studies are warranted to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Huang
- Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., Route 206 and Province Line Rd., Room E1.293, Princeton, NJ 08453, USA.
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19
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Rosenzweig SA. Acquired resistance to drugs targeting receptor tyrosine kinases. Biochem Pharmacol 2011; 83:1041-8. [PMID: 22227013 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2011.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2011] [Revised: 12/16/2011] [Accepted: 12/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Development of resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs represents a significant hindrance to the effective treatment of cancer patients. The molecular mechanisms responsible have been investigated for over half a century and have revealed the lack of a single cause. Rather, a multitude of mechanisms have been delineated ranging from induction and expression of membrane transporters that pump drugs out of cells (multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotype), changes in the glutathione system and altered metabolism to name a few. Treatment of cancer patients/cancer cells with chemotherapeutic agents and/or molecularly targeted drugs is accompanied by acquisition of resistance to the treatment administered. Chemotherapeutic agent resistance was initially assumed to be due to induction of mutations leading to a resistant phenotype. This has also been true for molecularly targeted drugs. Considerable experience has been gained from the study of agents targeting the Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase including imatinib, dasatinib and sunitinib. It is clear that mutations alone are not responsible for the many resistance mechanisms in play. Rather, additional mechanisms are involved, ranging from epigenetic changes, alternative splicing and the induction of alternative/compensatory signaling pathways. In this review, resistance to receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (RTKIs), RTK-directed antibodies and antibodies that inactivate ligands for RTKs are discussed. New approaches and concepts aimed at avoiding the generation of drug resistance will be examined. The recent observation that many RTKs, including the IGF-1R, are dependence receptors that induce apoptosis in a ligand-independent manner will be discussed and the implications this signaling paradigm has on therapeutic strategies will be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A Rosenzweig
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, 29425-5050, United States.
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20
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Jameson MJ, Beckler AD, Taniguchi LE, Allak A, Vanwagner LB, Lee NG, Thomsen WC, Hubbard MA, Thomas CY. Activation of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor induces resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor antagonism in head and neck squamous carcinoma cells. Mol Cancer Ther 2011; 10:2124-34. [PMID: 21878657 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-11-0294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have poor efficacy in head and neck squamous carcinoma cells (HNSCC). Because the IGF-1 receptor (IGF1R) generates potent prosurvival signals and has been implicated in therapeutic resistance, its ability to induce resistance to EGFR-TKIs was studied in vitro. Five HNSCC cell lines showed reduced sensitivity to the EGFR-TKI gefitinib when the IGF1R was activated. In SCC-25 and Cal27 cells, gefitinib inhibited basal and EGF-stimulated EGFR, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk), and Akt phosphorylation and reduced cell number. This correlated with initiation of apoptosis based on a 4-fold increase in PARP cleavage and a 2.5-fold increase in Annexin V positivity. The apoptotic response and reduction in cell number were blocked by IGF1R activation, which resulted in phosphorylation of both Erk and Akt. In both the cell lines, IGF1R-induced Erk, but not Akt, activation was eliminated by gefitinib. IGF1R-induced gefitinib resistance was unaffected by MAP/Erk kinase inhibition with U0126 but was partially impaired by inhibition of phosphoinositide-3-kinase with LY294002. The IGF1R-TKI PQ401 inhibited growth of SCC-25 and Cal27 cells alone and also acted synergistically with gefitinib. Thus, the IGF1R can make HNSCC cells resistant to EGFR-TKI treatment via a prosurvival mechanism. Of the 8 HNSCC tumor samples studied, all samples expressed the IGF1R and 5 showed detectable IGF1R phosphorylation, suggesting that this receptor may be relevant in vivo, and thus, combined EGFR/IGF1R inhibition may be necessary in some patients for effective targeted molecular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Jameson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville VA 22908, USA.
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Burgos-Tiburcio A, Santos ES, Arango BA, Raez LE. Development of targeted therapy for squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2011; 11:373-86. [PMID: 21417852 DOI: 10.1586/era.10.193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Targeted therapy is a very exciting era in the treatment of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. After adding cetuximab to conventional chemotherapy and radiation therapy, we are strongly considering the role of induction chemotherapy with the addition of docetaxel. At the same time, other new treatments, especially targeted agents and novel combined regimens, are being evaluated in ongoing clinical trials. For example, several trials are attempting to combine docetaxel and cetuximab in chemoradiation or induction settings. However, in the near future we are likely to see a strong presence of targeted agents that have been found to be not only effective, but also less toxic than conventional chemotherapeutic agents. Their toxicity profiles make them eligible for addition to radiation treatment strategies, as well as other chemotherapy agents, or even for replacing these chemotherapy agents. In this article, we are going to review the indications and current role of cetuximab, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (gefitinib and erlotinib), dual inhibitors, IGF receptor inhibitors, as well as other agents that are in development for treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Burgos-Tiburcio
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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22
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Frederick MJ, VanMeter AJ, Gadhikar MA, Henderson YC, Yao H, Pickering CC, Williams MD, El-Naggar AK, Sandulache V, Tarco E, Myers JN, Clayman GL, Liotta LA, Petricoin EF, Calvert VS, Fodale V, Wang J, Weber RS. Phosphoproteomic analysis of signaling pathways in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patient samples. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 178:548-71. [PMID: 21281788 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2010.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2010] [Revised: 10/02/2010] [Accepted: 10/28/2010] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Molecular targeted therapy represents a promising new strategy for treating cancers because many small-molecule inhibitors targeting protein kinases have recently become available. Reverse-phase protein microarrays (RPPAs) are a useful platform for identifying dysregulated signaling pathways in tumors and can provide insight into patient-specific differences. In the present study, RPPAs were used to examine 60 protein end points (predominantly phosphoproteins) in matched tumor and nonmalignant biopsy specimens from 23 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to characterize the cancer phosphoproteome. RPPA identified 18 of 60 analytes globally elevated in tumors versus healthy tissue and 17 of 60 analytes that were decreased. The most significantly elevated analytes in tumor were checkpoint kinase (Chk) 1 serine 345 (S345), Chk 2 S33/35, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) S65, protein kinase C (PKC) ζ/ι threonine 410/412 (T410/T412), LKB1 S334, inhibitor of kappaB alpha (IκB-α) S32, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) S209, Smad2 S465/67, insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) S612, mitogen-activated ERK kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) S217/221, and total PKC ι. To our knowledge, this is the first report of elevated PKC ι in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma that may have significance because PKC ι is an oncogene in several other tumor types, including lung cancer. The feasibility of using RPPA for developing theranostic tests to guide personalized therapy is discussed in the context of these data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell J Frederick
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
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23
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Reidy DL, Vakiani E, Fakih MG, Saif MW, Hecht JR, Goodman-Davis N, Hollywood E, Shia J, Schwartz J, Chandrawansa K, Dontabhaktuni A, Youssoufian H, Solit DB, Saltz LB. Randomized, phase II study of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor inhibitor IMC-A12, with or without cetuximab, in patients with cetuximab- or panitumumab-refractory metastatic colorectal cancer. J Clin Oncol 2010; 28:4240-6. [PMID: 20713879 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2010.30.4154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the safety and efficacy of IMC-A12, a human monoclonal antibody (mAb) that blocks insulin-like growth factor receptor-1 (IGF-1R), as monotherapy or in combination with cetuximab in patients with metastatic refractory anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mAb colorectal cancer. METHODS A randomized, phase II study was performed in which patients in arm A received IMC-A12 10 mg/kg intravenously (IV) every 2 weeks, while patients in arm B received this same dose of IMC-A12 plus cetuximab 500 mg/m(2) IV every 2 weeks. Subsequently, arm C (same combination treatment as arm B) was added to include patients who had disease control on a prior anti-EGFR mAb and wild-type KRAS tumors. Archived pretreatment tumor tissue was obtained when possible for KRAS, PIK3CA, and BRAF genotyping, and immunohistochemistry was obtained for pAKT as well as IGF-1R. RESULTS Overall, 64 patients were treated (median age, 61 years; range, 40 to 84 years): 23 patients in arm A, 21 in arm B, and 20 in arm C. No antitumor activity was seen in the 23 patients treated with IMC-A12 monotherapy. Of the 21 patients randomly assigned to IMC-A12 plus cetuximab, one patient (with KRAS wild type) achieved a partial response, with disease control lasting 6.5 months. Arm C (all patients with KRAS wild type), however, showed no additional antitumor activity. Serious adverse events thought possibly related to IMC-A12 included a grade 2 infusion-related reaction (2%; one of 64 patients), thrombocytopenia (2%; one of 64 patients), grade 3 hyperglycemia (2%; one of 64 patients), and grade 1 pyrexia (2%, one of 64 patients). CONCLUSION IMC-A12 alone or in combination with cetuximab was insufficient to warrant additional study in patients with colorectal cancer refractory to EGFR inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Lauren Reidy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Solid Tumors, Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Ave, Howard 1004, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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24
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Chung CH, Pohlmann PR, Rothenberg ML, Burkey BB, Parker J, Palka K, Aulino J, Puzanov I, Murphy B. Insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor inhibitor, AMG-479, in cetuximab-refractory head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Head Neck 2010; 33:1804-8. [PMID: 20652976 DOI: 10.1002/hed.21478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains a difficult cancer to treat. Here, we describe a patient with HNSCC who had complete response to methotrexate (MTX) after progressing on multiple cytotoxic agents, cetuximab, and AMG-479 (monoclonal antibody against insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor [IGF-1R]). METHODS The clinical information was collected by a retrospective medical record review under an Institutional Review Board-approved protocol. From 4 tumors and 2 normal mucosal epithelia, global gene expression, and IGF-1R and dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) protein levels were determined. RESULTS Effective target inhibition in the tumor was confirmed by the decreased protein levels of total and phospho-IGF-1R after treatment with AMG-479. Decreased level of DHFR and conversion of a gene expression profile associated with cetuximab-resistance to cetuximab-sensitivity were also observed. CONCLUSION This suggests that the combination of AMG-479 and MTX or cetuximab may be a promising therapeutic approach in refractory HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine H Chung
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
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25
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Rosenzweig SA, Atreya HS. Defining the pathway to insulin-like growth factor system targeting in cancer. Biochem Pharmacol 2010; 80:1115-24. [PMID: 20599789 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2010.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2010] [Revised: 06/12/2010] [Accepted: 06/15/2010] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factors (IGFs; IGF-1 and IGF-2) play central roles in cell growth, differentiation, survival, transformation and metastasis. The biologic effects of the IGFs are mediated by the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R), a receptor tyrosine kinase with homology to the insulin receptor (IR). Dysregulation of the IGF system is well recognized as a key contributor to the progression of multiple cancers, with IGF-1R activation increasing the tumorigenic potential of breast, prostate, lung, colon and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Despite this relationship, targeting the IGF-1R has only recently undergone development as a molecular cancer therapeutic. As it has taken hold, we are witnessing a robust increase and interest in targeting the inhibition of IGF-1R signaling. This is accentuated by the list of over 30 drugs, including monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) that are under evaluation as single agents or in combination therapies. The IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) represent the third component of the IGF system consisting of a class of six soluble secretory proteins. They represent a unique class of naturally occurring IGF-antagonists that bind to and sequester IGF-1 and IGF-2, inhibiting their access to the IGF-1R. Due to their dual targeting of the IGFs without affecting insulin action, the IGFBPs are an untapped "third" class of IGF-1R inhibitors. In this commentary, we highlight some of the significant aspects of and prospects for targeting the IGF-1R and describe what the future may hold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A Rosenzweig
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics and Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Avenue, PO Box 250505, Charleston, SC 29425-5050, USA.
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26
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Regulation of invasive behavior by vascular endothelial growth factor is HEF1-dependent. Oncogene 2010; 29:4449-59. [PMID: 20498643 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) autocrine loop in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines, supporting a role for VEGF in HNSCC tumorigenesis. Using a phosphotyrosine proteomics approach, we screened the HNSCC cell line, squamous cell carcinoma-9 for effectors of VEGFR2 signaling. A cluster of proteins involved in cell migration and invasion, including the p130Cas paralog, human enhancer of filamentation 1 (HEF1/Cas-L/Nedd9) was identified. HEF1 silencing and overexpression studies revealed a role for VEGF in regulating cell migration, invasion and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression in a HEF1-dependent manner. Moreover, cells plated on extracellular matrix-coated coverslips showed enhanced invadopodia formation in response to VEGF that was HEF1-dependent. Immunolocalization revealed that HEF1 colocalized to invadopodia with MT1-MMP. Analysis of HNSCC tissue microarrays for HEF1 immunoreactivity revealed a 6.5-fold increase in the odds of having a metastasis with a high HEF1 score compared with a low HEF1 score. These findings suggest that HEF1 may be prognostic for advanced stage HNSCC. They also show for the first time that HEF1 is required for VEGF-mediated HNSCC cell migration and invasion, consistent with HEF1's recent identification as a metastatic regulator. These results support a strategy targeting VEGF:VEGFR2 in HNSCC therapeutics.
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Wolf S, Lorenz J, Mössner J, Wiedmann M. Treatment of biliary tract cancer with NVP-AEW541: Mechanisms of action and resistance. World J Gastroenterol 2010; 16:156-66. [PMID: 20066734 PMCID: PMC2806553 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i2.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate in vitro treatment with NVP-AEW541, a small molecule inhibitor of insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), in biliary tract cancer (BTC), since this disease is associated with a poor prognosis due to wide resistance to chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy.
METHODS: Cell growth inhibition by NVP-AEW541 was studied in vitro in 7 human BTC cell lines by automated cell counting. In addition, the anti-tumoral mechanism of NVP-AEW541 was studied by Western blotting, cell cycle analysis and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Anti-tumoral drug effect in combination with gemcitabine, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and Polo-like kinase 1 inhibitor BI2536 was also studied.
RESULTS: In vitro treatment with NVP-AEW541 suppressed growth in all human BTC cell lines, however response was lower in gallbladder cancer. Treatment with NVP-AEW541 was associated with dephosphorylation of IGF-1R and AKT. In contrast, phosphorylation of p42/p44 and Stat3 and expression of Bcl-xL were inconsistently downregulated. In addition, treated cells showed cell cycle arrest at the G1/S-checkpoint and an increase in sub-G1 peak. Moreover, IGF-1R and its ligands IGF-1 and IGF-2 were co-expressed in RT-PCR, suggesting an autocrine loop of tumor cell activation. Combined with gemcitabine, NVP-AEW541 exerted synergistic effects, particularly at low concentrations, while effects of combination with 5-FU or BI 2536 were only additive.
CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that NVP-AEW541 is active against BTC in vitro and potentiates the efficacy of gemcitabine.
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Beauchamp MC, Yasmeen A, Knafo A, Gotlieb WH. Targeting insulin and insulin-like growth factor pathways in epithelial ovarian cancer. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2010; 2010:257058. [PMID: 20069126 PMCID: PMC2804114 DOI: 10.1155/2010/257058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2009] [Accepted: 10/09/2009] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal of all gynecological malignancies, due in part to the diagnosis at an advanced stage caused by the lack of specific signs and symptoms and the absence of reliable tests for screening and early detection. Most patients will respond initially to treatment but about 70% of them will suffer a recurrence. Therefore, new therapeutic modalities are urgently needed to overcome chemoresistance observed in ovarian cancer patients. Evidence accumulates suggesting that the insulin/insulin growth factor (IGF) pathways could act as a good therapeutic target in several cancers, including ovarian cancer. In this paper, we will focus on the role of insulin/IGF in ovarian cancer tumorigenesis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claude Beauchamp
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada H3T 1E2
- Segal Cancer Center, Lady Davis Institute of Medical Research, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada H3T 1E2
| | - Amber Yasmeen
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada H3T 1E2
- Segal Cancer Center, Lady Davis Institute of Medical Research, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada H3T 1E2
| | - Ariane Knafo
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada H3T 1E2
- Segal Cancer Center, Lady Davis Institute of Medical Research, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada H3T 1E2
| | - Walter H. Gotlieb
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada H3T 1E2
- Segal Cancer Center, Lady Davis Institute of Medical Research, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada H3T 1E2
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Stadler ME, Patel MR, Couch ME, Hayes DN. Molecular biology of head and neck cancer: risks and pathways. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2009; 22:1099-124, vii. [PMID: 19010262 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2008.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Patients present with a differential baseline risk of cancer based on normal and expected variations in genes associated with cancer. The baseline risk of developing cancer is acted on throughout life as the genome of different cells interacts with the environment in the form of exposures (eg, toxins, infections). As genetic damage is incurred throughout a lifetime (directly to DNA sequences or to the epigenome), events are set in motion to progressively disrupt normal cellular pathways toward tumorigenesis. This article attempts to characterize broad categories of genetic aberrations and pathways in a manner that might be useful for the clinician to understand the risk of developing cancer, the pathways that are disrupted, and the potential for molecular-based diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Stadler
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #7070, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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30
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Santos ES, Perez C, Donald CE, Raez LE. Targeting important pathways in head and neck cancer: from the bench to the clinic. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2008; 8:1819-35. [PMID: 18983242 DOI: 10.1586/14737140.8.11.1819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Radiation therapy as single or combined modality (concurrent chemoradiotherapy) has been the cornerstone of treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck for a long time. Fortunately, advances in tumor biology have provided new insights of tumor proliferation, metastases, migration and cell cycle regulation. The success seen with the use of cetuximab alone or in combination with conventional treatments has led the roadmap to discover other potential target mechanisms which may translate into better response rate with less local and systemic toxicity and improved overall survival. In this review, we discuss other cellular pathways that have shown to be involved in the carcinogenesis of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck and the actual efforts to target these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgardo S Santos
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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Rodon J, DeSantos V, Ferry RJ, Kurzrock R. Early drug development of inhibitors of the insulin-like growth factor-I receptor pathway: lessons from the first clinical trials. Mol Cancer Ther 2008; 7:2575-88. [PMID: 18790742 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-08-0265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR) was first cloned in 1986. Since then, intense work has defined classic phosphorelays activated via the IGF-IR, which regulate cell proliferation, apoptosis, motility, and fate. The understanding of the roles of hormones in cancer and the growth hormone-IGF-IGF-binding protein axis specifically has yield to a second wave of development: the design of specific inhibitors that interrupt the signaling associated with this axis. The ability to manipulate these pathways holds not only significant therapeutic implications but also increase the chance of deeper insight about the role of the axis in carcinogenesis and metastasis. Nowadays, >25 molecules with the same goal are at different stages of development. Here, we review the clinical and preclinical experience with the two most-investigated strategies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, and the advantages and disadvantages of each strategy, as well as other alternatives and possible drug combinations. We also review the biomarkers explored in the first clinical trials, the strategies that have been explored thus far, and the clinical trials that are going to explore their role in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Rodon
- Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Unit 455, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Brady G, Crean SJ, Lorenzon A, Kapas S. IGF-I protects human oral buccal mucosal epithelial cells from sodium nitroprusside-induced apoptosis via PI3-kinase. Growth Horm IGF Res 2008; 18:298-306. [PMID: 18269934 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2007.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2007] [Revised: 10/31/2007] [Accepted: 11/13/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cancers of the head and neck account for the vast majority of all malignancies of the oral cavity. The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) family of proteins is well documented to have an important role in rescuing cells from apoptosis. While it is known the IGF proteins are present in normal oral epithelial and cancer cells its role is not fully understood. Our aim was to study the ability of IGFs to rescue sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced apoptotic normal oral epithelial cells in vitro. DESIGN Cultured normal human oral keratinocytes (NOKs) or epithelial cells were used. Apoptosis was induced by SNP then cells were exposed to IGF-I or IGF-II to rescue them. Cell viability was assessed by ELISA (for cell death and caspase 3) and FACS analysis; post receptor effects of IGF-I or IGF-II were assessed by [(3)H] thymidine incorporation. Cell signaling events were measured by western blotting using antibodies against phosphorylated Akt or p42/p44 MAPK, and measuring PI3-K activity by ELISA. RESULTS SNP induced apoptosis of NOKs and activated the PI3-K/Akt survival pathway. Exposing cells to IGF proteins prevented their apoptosis. IGF-I and -II caused significant increases in PI3-K, but not MAPK, activity. SNP and LY294002, a PI3-K inhibitor, both caused a significant rise in caspase 3 release from NOKs which was reduced in the presence of IGFs. CONCLUSIONS The data establishes the importance of IGF-activated PI3-K in rescuing cells from apoptosis. It lends further evidence to the significance of IGF proteins in the possible development of oral cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garrett Brady
- Maxillofacial Department, Leeds Dental Institute, Clarendon Way, Leeds LS2 9LU, UK.
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Foster K, Wang Y, Zhou D, Wright C. Dependence on PI3K/Akt signaling for malignant rhabdoid tumor cell survival. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2008; 63:783-91. [PMID: 18641990 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-008-0796-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2007] [Accepted: 07/07/2008] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Malignant rhabdoid tumors (MRT), although rare, are one of the most aggressive pediatric malignancies. Loss of INI1, a tumor suppressor gene and member of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, is a recurrent genetic characteristic of these tumors and an important diagnostic marker. We have previously demonstrated a novel interaction between the serine/threonine kinase Akt and INI1, as well as other SWI/SNF subunits. This, coupled with experiments in the literature suggesting that the PI3K/Akt pathway is dysregulated in MRT cells, caused us to investigate the activation and importance of this pathway in this tumor type. METHODS In this study, we used MTT assays to evaluate the sensitivity of MRT cell lines to PI3K inhibition. Western blot analysis and Raf pulldown assays were used to examine potential mechanisms of PI3K/Akt dysregulation. RESULTS Inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway caused a significant reduction in the survival of the four MRT cell lines tested, and three cell lines demonstrated constitutively active Akt. Two of these constitutively active Akt cell lines abundantly expressed IGF-1R and an inhibitor of IGF-1R, NVP-AEW541, reduced Akt phosphorylation in one of them. The third constitutively active Akt cell line appeared to express a mutant IGF-1R. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggests that the PI3K/Akt pathway is a crucial means of maintaining the survival and growth of MRT cells. The cells therefore employ various mechanisms to stimulate this pathway, and growth factor receptor dysregulation appears to be a common method. Drugs that inhibit the PI3K pathway or interfere with IGF autocrine loops may be of great value in treating MRT, which is largely resistant to conventional chemotherapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Foster
- Pathology and Laboratory, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA
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Shirai K, O'Brien PE. Molecular targets in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2008; 8:239-51. [PMID: 17962911 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-007-0030-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide more than a half million people develop Head and Neck cancer annually. Despite a significant decrease in smoking, about 40,000 new patients are diagnosed with carcinoma of the head and neck annually in the United States, and 11,000 of them succumb to their disease. More than 90% of these cancers are squamous cell carcinoma. The survival rates of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) have not improved significantly despite multimodality therapy including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Recently, molecular targeted agents have shown significant improvement in clinical outcomes in chronic myelogeneous leukemia with imatinib, breast cancer with trastuzumab, colon cancer with bevacizumab and cetuximab, and renal cell cancer with sorafenib and sunitinib. In SCCHN the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody cetuximab has shown promising results in a phase III trial in combination with radiation. How best to integrate these agents with the traditional treatment modalities of surgery, radiotherapy, and cytotoxic chemotherapy is of vital importance but has yet to be determined. This article will discuss the biology of molecular targeted agents as well as current clinical trials and future directions of these agents in SCCHN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Shirai
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, 903 CSB, 250623, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
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Bypassing cellular EGF receptor dependence through epithelial-to-mesenchymal-like transitions. Clin Exp Metastasis 2008; 25:685-93. [PMID: 18236164 PMCID: PMC2471394 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-007-9121-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2007] [Accepted: 10/16/2007] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Over 90% of all cancers are carcinomas, malignancies derived from cells of epithelial origin. As carcinomas progress, these tumors may lose epithelial morphology and acquire mesenchymal characteristics which contribute to metastatic potential. An epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) similar to the process critical for embryonic development is thought to be an important mechanism for promoting cancer invasion and metastasis. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions have been induced in vitro by transient or unregulated activation of receptor tyrosine kinase signaling pathways, oncogene signaling and disruption of homotypic cell adhesion. These cellular models attempt to mimic the complexity of human carcinomas which respond to autocrine and paracrine signals from both the tumor and its microenvironment. Activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been implicated in the neoplastic transformation of solid tumors and overexpression of EGFR has been shown to correlate with poor survival. Notably, epithelial tumor cells have been shown to be significantly more sensitive to EGFR inhibitors than tumor cells which have undergone an EMT-like transition and acquired mesenchymal characteristics, including non-small cell lung (NSCLC), head and neck (HN), bladder, colorectal, pancreas and breast carcinomas. EGFR blockade has also been shown to inhibit cellular migration, suggesting a role for EGFR inhibitors in the control of metastasis. The interaction between EGFR and the multiple signaling nodes which regulate EMT suggest that the combination of an EGFR inhibitor and other molecular targeted agents may offer a novel approach to controlling metastasis.
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Abstract
Cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), are characterized by the increased expression of receptor and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases. Many small molecules have been developed that selectively inhibit these kinases. These drugs have demonstrated antitumor effects in many preclinical cancer models and are now either approved for use in selected cancer patients or are under active clinical development. Receptor tyrosine kinases can also be targeted using monoclonal antibodies. Cetuximab is a chimeric antibody that inhibits the epidermal growth factor receptor and was approved for use in HNSCC, making it the first new drug for the treatment of this malignancy in over 40 years. Serine/threonine kinases are also aberrantly expressed in HNSCC and inhibitors of these kinases are being developed for clinical use. These developments will allow for the rational design of treatment regimens for HNSCC patients based on the aberrant kinase signaling in their tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Nelson
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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