1
|
Carney CP, Kapur A, Anastasiadis P, Ritzel RM, Chen C, Woodworth GF, Winkles JA, Kim AJ. Fn14-Directed DART Nanoparticles Selectively Target Neoplastic Cells in Preclinical Models of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Brain Metastasis. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:314-330. [PMID: 36374573 PMCID: PMC11056964 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients with brain metastasis (BM) face dismal prognosis due to the limited therapeutic efficacy of the currently available treatment options. We previously demonstrated that paclitaxel-loaded PLGA-PEG nanoparticles (NPs) directed to the Fn14 receptor, termed "DARTs", are more efficacious than Abraxane─an FDA-approved paclitaxel nanoformulation─following intravenous delivery in a mouse model of TNBC BM. However, the precise basis for this difference was not investigated. Here, we further examine the utility of the DART drug delivery platform in complementary xenograft and syngeneic TNBC BM models. First, we demonstrated that, in comparison to nontargeted NPs, DART NPs exhibit preferential association with Fn14-positive human and murine TNBC cell lines cultured in vitro. We next identified tumor cells as the predominant source of Fn14 expression in the TNBC BM-immune microenvironment with minimal expression by microglia, infiltrating macrophages, monocytes, or lymphocytes. We then show that despite similar accumulation in brains harboring TNBC tumors, Fn14-targeted DARTs exhibit significant and specific association with Fn14-positive TNBC cells compared to nontargeted NPs or Abraxane. Together, these results indicate that Fn14 expression primarily by tumor cells in TNBC BMs enables selective DART NP delivery to these cells, likely driving the significantly improved therapeutic efficacy observed in our prior work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine P Carney
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Anshika Kapur
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Pavlos Anastasiadis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Rodney M Ritzel
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Shock, Trauma and Anesthesiology Research (STAR), University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Chixiang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Graeme F Woodworth
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, A. James Clarke School of Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Jeffrey A Winkles
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Anthony J Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, A. James Clarke School of Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zaitseva O, Hoffmann A, Otto C, Wajant H. Targeting fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-inducible 14 (Fn14) for tumor therapy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:935086. [PMID: 36339601 PMCID: PMC9634131 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.935086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) is a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) and is activated by its ligand TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK). The latter occurs as a homotrimeric molecule in a soluble and a membrane-bound form. Soluble TWEAK (sTWEAK) activates the weakly inflammatory alternative NF-κB pathway and sensitizes for TNF-induced cell death while membrane TWEAK (memTWEAK) triggers additionally robust activation of the classical NF-κB pathway and various MAP kinase cascades. Fn14 expression is limited in adult organisms but becomes strongly induced in non-hematopoietic cells by a variety of growth factors, cytokines and physical stressors (e.g., hypoxia, irradiation). Since all these Fn14-inducing factors are frequently also present in the tumor microenvironment, Fn14 is regularly found to be expressed by non-hematopoietic cells of the tumor microenvironment and most solid tumor cells. In general, there are three possibilities how the tumor-Fn14 linkage could be taken into consideration for tumor therapy. First, by exploitation of the cancer associated expression of Fn14 to direct cytotoxic activities (antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), cytotoxic payloads, CAR T-cells) to the tumor, second by blockade of potential protumoral activities of the TWEAK/Fn14 system, and third, by stimulation of Fn14 which not only triggers proinflammtory activities but also sensitizes cells for apoptotic and necroptotic cell death. Based on a brief description of the biology of the TWEAK/Fn14 system and Fn14 signaling, we discuss the features of the most relevant Fn14-targeting biologicals and review the preclinical data obtained with these reagents. In particular, we address problems and limitations which became evident in the preclinical studies with Fn14-targeting biologicals and debate possibilities how they could be overcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olena Zaitseva
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Annett Hoffmann
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplantation,Vascular and Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Otto
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplantation,Vascular and Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Harald Wajant
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Harald Wajant,
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Circulating Protein Biomarkers for Prognostic Use in Patients with Advanced Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Undergoing Chemotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133250. [PMID: 35805022 PMCID: PMC9264968 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) have a dismal prognosis. We aimed to find a prognostic protein signature for overall survival (OS) in patients with advanced PDAC, and to explore whether early changes in circulating-protein levels could predict survival. We investigated 92 proteins using the Olink Immuno-Oncology panel in serum samples from 363 patients with advanced PDAC. Protein panels for several survival cut-offs were developed independently by two bioinformaticians using LASSO and Ridge regression models. Two panels of proteins discriminated patients with OS < 90 days from those with OS > 2 years. Index I (CSF-1, IL-6, PDCD1, TNFRSF12A, TRAIL, TWEAK, and CA19-9) had AUCs of 0.99 (95% CI: 0.98−1) (discovery cohort) and 0.89 (0.74−1) (replication cohort). For Index II (CXCL13, IL-6, PDCD1, and TNFRSF12A), the corresponding AUCs were 0.97 (0.93−1) and 0.82 (0.68−0.96). Four proteins (ANGPT2, IL-6, IL-10, and TNFRSF12A) were associated with survival across all treatment groups. Longitudinal samples revealed several changes, including four proteins that were also part of the prognostic signatures (CSF-1, CXCL13, IL-6, TNFRSF12A). This study identified two circulating-protein indices with the potential to identify patients with advanced PDAC with very short OS and with long OS.
Collapse
|
4
|
NF-κB in Gastric Cancer Development and Therapy. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9080870. [PMID: 34440074 PMCID: PMC8389569 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is considered one of the most common causes of cancer-related death worldwide and, thus, a major health problem. A variety of environmental factors including physical and chemical noxae, as well as pathogen infections could contribute to the development of gastric cancer. The transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and its dysregulation has a major impact on gastric carcinogenesis due to the regulation of cytokines/chemokines, growth factors, anti-apoptotic factors, cell cycle regulators, and metalloproteinases. Changes in NF-κB signaling are directed by genetic alterations in the transcription factors themselves, but also in NF-κB signaling molecules. NF-κB actively participates in the crosstalk of the cells in the tumor micromilieu with divergent effects on the heterogeneous tumor cell and immune cell populations. Thus, the benefits/consequences of therapeutic targeting of NF-κB have to be carefully evaluated. In this review, we address recent knowledge about the mechanisms and consequences of NF-κB dysregulation in gastric cancer development and therapy.
Collapse
|
5
|
Alvarez de Cienfuegos A, Cheung LH, Mohamedali KA, Whitsett TG, Winkles JA, Hittelman WN, Rosenblum MG. Therapeutic efficacy and safety of a human fusion construct targeting the TWEAK receptor Fn14 and containing a modified granzyme B. J Immunother Cancer 2020; 8:jitc-2020-001138. [PMID: 32958685 PMCID: PMC7507898 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antibody-drug conjugates are an exceptional and useful therapeutic tool for multiple diseases, particularly for cancer treatment. We previously showed that the fusion of the serine protease granzyme B (GrB), the effector molecule or T and B cells, to a binding domain allows the controlled and effective delivery of the cytotoxic payload into the target cell. The production of these constructs induced the formation of high molecular aggregates with a potential impact on the efficacy and safety of the protein. Methods Our laboratory designed a new Fn14 targeted fusion construct designated GrB(C210A)-Fc-IT4 which contains a modified GrB payload for improved protein production and preserved biological activity. We assessed the construct’s enzymatic activity, as well as in vitro cytotoxicity and internalization into target cells. We also assessed pharmacokinetics, efficacy and toxicology parameters in vivo. Results GrB(C210A)-Fc-IT4 protein exhibited high affinity and selective cytotoxicity within the nanomolar range when tested against a panel of Fn14-positive human cancer cell lines. The construct rapidly internalized into target cells, activating the caspase cascade and causing mitochondrial membrane depolarization. Pharmacokinetic studies in mice revealed that GrB(C210A)-Fc-IT4 displayed a bi-exponential clearance from plasma with a fast initial clearance (t1/2α=0.36 hour) followed by a prolonged terminal-phase plasma half-life (t1/2β=35 hours). Mice bearing MDA-MB-231 orthotopic tumor xenografts treated with vehicle or GrB(C210A)-Fc-IT4 construct (QODx5) demonstrated tumor regression and long-term (>80 days) suppression of tumor growth. Treatment of mice bearing established, subcutaneous A549 lung tumors showed impressive, long-term tumor suppression compared with a control group treated with vehicle alone. Administration of GrB(C210A)-Fc-IT4 (100 mg/kg total dose) was well-tolerated by mice and resulted in significant reduction of tumor burden in a lung cancer patient-derived xenograft model. Toxicity studies revealed no statistically significant changes in aspartate transferase, alanine transferase or lactate dehydrogenase in treated mice. Histopathological analysis of tissues from treated mice did not demonstrate any specific drug-related changes. Conclusion GrB(C210A)-Fc-IT4 demonstrated excellent, specific cytotoxicity in vitro and impressive in vivo efficacy with no significant toxicity in normal murine models. These studies show GrB(C210A)-Fc-IT4 is an excellent candidate for further preclinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Alvarez de Cienfuegos
- Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Division of Cancer Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Lawrence H Cheung
- Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Division of Cancer Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Khalid A Mohamedali
- Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Division of Cancer Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey A Winkles
- Department of Surgery, Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Walter N Hittelman
- Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Division of Cancer Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael G Rosenblum
- Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Division of Cancer Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen P, Kuang P, Wang L, Li W, Chen B, Liu Y, Wang H, Zhao S, Ye L, Yu F, He Y, Zhou C. Mechanisms of drugs-resistance in small cell lung cancer: DNA-related, RNA-related, apoptosis-related, drug accumulation and metabolism procedure. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2020; 9:768-786. [PMID: 32676338 PMCID: PMC7354133 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr-19-547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), the highest malignant cancer amongst different types of lung cancer, has the feature of lower differentiation, rapid growth, and poor survival rate. Despite the dramatically initial sensitivity of SCLC to various types of treatment methods, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy, the emergence of drugs-resistance is still a grandly clinical challenge. Therefore, in order to improve the prognosis and develop new therapeutic approaches, having a better understanding of the complex mechanisms of resistance in SCLC is of great clinical significance. This review summarized recent advances in understanding of multiple mechanisms which are involved in the resistance during SCLC treatment, including DNA-related process, RNA-related process, apoptosis-related mechanism, and the process of drug accumulation and metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peixin Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Medical School, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Kuang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Medical School, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Medical School, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sha Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingyun Ye
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yayi He
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Caicun Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Acharya S, Prabhu P, Patil VS, Acharya AB, Nikhil K. Immunohistochemical expression of tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis and fibroblast growth factor-inducible immediate early response protein 14 in oral squamous cell carcinoma and its implications. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 10:e12469. [PMID: 31541512 DOI: 10.1111/jicd.12469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
AIM To study the expression of tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) and fibroblast growth factor-inducible immediate early response protein 14 (Fn14) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), to elucidate the possible role of TWEAK-Fn14 in OSCC development. METHODS Immunohistochemistry for TWEAK-Fn14 was performed on 61 oral mucosal samples: healthy oral mucosa (HOM; N = 15); oral dysplastic lesions (ODL; N = 15); and OSCC (N = 31). Extent of staining (ES) and immunoreactive score (IRS) were assessed. The data was statistically analyzed. RESULTS All OSCC expressed TWEAK, and the Fn14 expression was noted in 90% of OSCC. A significant difference in the TWEAK and Fn14 expression was noted among the groups. ES and IRS of TWEAK-Fn14 significantly increased in OSCC compared with ODL and HOM. ES of TWEAK was significantly higher than Fn14 in all 3 groups. ES of TWEAK-Fn14 was significantly higher at the invasive tumor front (ITF) than in the whole tumor. TWEAK-Fn14 showed a significant association with clinicopathological parameters of prognostic significance. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that TWEAK and Fn14 may participate in the growth and progression of OSCC. Increased expression of TWEAK-Fn14 at the ITF may facilitate increased proliferation, altered differentiation and invasion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swetha Acharya
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad, India
| | - Prashant Prabhu
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad, India
| | - Vidya S Patil
- Department of Biochemistry, SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad, India
| | - Anirudh B Acharya
- Department of Periodontics, SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad, India
| | - Krithi Nikhil
- Biostatistician, Department of Public Health Dentistry, SDM College of Dental Sciences & Hospital, Dharwad, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) are proteins that control the transcription of genetic information from DNA to mRNA by binding to specific DNA sequences either on their own or with other proteins as a complex. TFs thus support or suppress the recruitment of the corresponding RNA polymerase. In general, TFs are classified by structure or function. The TF, Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), is expressed in all cell types and tissues. NF-κB signaling and crosstalk are involved in several steps of carcinogenesis including in sequences involving pathogenic stimulus, chronic inflammation, fibrosis, establishment of its remodeling to the precancerous niche (PCN) and transition of a normal cell to a cancer cell. Triggered by various inflammatory cytokines, NF-κB is activated along with other TFs with subsequent stimulation of cell proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis. The involvement of NF-κB in carcinogenesis provides an opportunity to develop anti-NF-κB therapies. The complexity of these interactions requires that we elucidate those aspects of NF-κB interactions that play a role in carcinogenesis, the sequence of events leading to cancer.
Collapse
|
9
|
NETO2 promotes invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer cells via activation of PI3K/Akt/NF-κB/Snail axis and predicts outcome of the patients. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:162. [PMID: 30770791 PMCID: PMC6377647 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1388-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant expression of neuropilin and tolloid-like 2 (NETO2) has been observed during the progression of some human carcinomas. However, the expression pattern and clinical relevance of NETO2 in gastric cancer (GC) remain to be elucidated. In this study, we found that NETO2 expression was higher in GC tissues compared with paired non-cancerous tissues. Moreover, the expression of NETO2 was positively correlated with clinical stage, invasion depth, lymph node metastasis, and tumor size, but inversely correlated with overall and disease-free survival rates. Cox regression analysis identified NETO2 as an independent prognostic indicator for GC patients. Overexpression of NETO2 facilitated migration and invasion of GC cells in vitro and metastasis in vivo in association with induction of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Conversely, knockdown of NETO2 had the opposite effects. Mechanistically, silencing NETO2 reduced the phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT, and NF-κB p65 as well as the expression of Snail, whereas NETO2 overexpression achieved the opposite results. Furthermore, we identified TNFRSF12A as a mediator for NETO2 to activate PI3K/AKT/NF-κB/Snail axis. Collectively, our results demonstrate that NETO2 promotes invasion and metastasis of GC cells and represents a novel prognostic indicator as well as a potential therapeutic target in GC.
Collapse
|
10
|
Autophagy differentially regulates TNF receptor Fn14 by distinct mammalian Atg8 proteins. Nat Commun 2018; 9:3744. [PMID: 30218067 PMCID: PMC6138730 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06275-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy, a conserved membrane trafficking process, sequesters cytoplasmic components into autophagosomes and targets them for lysosomal degradation. The TNF receptor Fn14 participates in multiple intracellular signaling pathways and is strongly induced upon tissue injury and solid tumorigenesis. While Fn14 is a short-lived protein, the regulation of its levels is largely obscure. Here we uncover a role for autophagy in Fn14 turnover, wherein specific core autophagy Atg8 proteins play distinct roles: Fn14 accumulates in the ERGIC in absence of GABARAP but within endosomes in the vicinity of autophagic membranes in absence of GATE-16. Moreover, GABARAP regulates overall cellular levels of Fn14, whereas GATE-16 regulates TWEAK signaling by Fn14 and thereby NF-κB activity. These findings not only implicate different Atg8 proteins in distinct roles within the mechanism of selective autophagic regulation of Fn14, but may also provide a more general view of their role in mediating autophagosome biogenesis from different membrane sources.
Collapse
|
11
|
Lyu M, Cui Y, Zhao T, Ning Z, Ren J, Jin X, Fan G, Zhu Y. Tnfrsf12a-Mediated Atherosclerosis Signaling and Inflammatory Response as a Common Protection Mechanism of Shuxuening Injection Against Both Myocardial and Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injuries. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:312. [PMID: 29681850 PMCID: PMC5897438 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Shuxuening injection (SXNI) is a widely prescribed herbal medicine of Ginkgo biloba extract (EGB) for cerebral and cardiovascular diseases in China. However, its curative effects on ischemic stroke and heart diseases and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Taking an integrated approach of RNA-seq and network pharmacology analysis, we compared transcriptome profiles of brain and heart ischemia reperfusion injury in C57BL/6J mice to identify common and differential target genes by SXNI. Models for myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI) by ligating left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) for 30 min ischemia and 24 h reperfusion and cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury (CIRI) by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 90 min ischemia and 24 h reperfusion were employed to identify the common mechanisms of SXNI on both cerebral and myocardial ischemia reperfusion. In the CIRI model, ischemic infarct volume was markedly decreased after pre-treatment with SXNI at 0.5, 2.5, and 12.5 mL/kg. In the MIRI model, pre-treatment with SXNI at 2.5 and 12.5 mL/kg improved cardiac function and coronary blood flow and decreased myocardial infarction area. Besides, SXNI at 2.5 mL/kg also markedly reduced the levels of LDH, AST, CK-MB, and CK in serum. RNA-seq analysis identified 329 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in brain and 94 DEGs in heart after SXNI treatment in CIRI or MIRI models, respectively. Core analysis by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) revealed that atherosclerosis signaling and inflammatory response were top-ranked in the target profiles for both CIRI and MIRI after pre-treatment with SXNI. Specifically, Tnfrsf12a was recognized as an important common target, and was regulated by SXNI in CIRI and MIRI. In conclusion, our study showed that SXNI effectively protects brain and heart from I/R injuries via a common Tnfrsf12a-mediated pathway involving atherosclerosis signaling and inflammatory response. It provides a novel knowledge of active ingredients of Ginkgo biloba on cardio-cerebral vascular diseases in future clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Lyu
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ying Cui
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Tiechan Zhao
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhaochen Ning
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xingpiao Jin
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Guanwei Fan
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Zhu
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Affiliation(s)
- Guanglei Hu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Weihui Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yumin Xia
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sezaki T, Hirata Y, Hagiwara T, Kawamura YI, Okamura T, Takanashi R, Nakano K, Tamura-Nakano M, Burkly LC, Dohi T. Disruption of the TWEAK/Fn14 pathway prevents 5-fluorouracil-induced diarrhea in mice. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:2294-2307. [PMID: 28428709 PMCID: PMC5385396 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i13.2294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To clarify the roles of TWEAK and its receptor Fn14 in 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-induced diarrhea.
METHODS Diarrhea was induced in wild-type (WT), Fn14 knockout (KO), and IL-13 receptor (IL-13R)α1 KO BALB/c mice using a single injection of 5-FU. Histological analysis, cytokine analysis, and flow cytometry was performed on ileal tissues and cells. Murine colon carcinoma-bearing mice were co-treated with an anti-TWEAK antibody and 5-FU. Embryonic fibroblast response to cytokines was also analyzed.
RESULTS 5-FU induced high Fn14 expression in epithelial cells. The severity of 5-FU-induced diarrhea was lower in Fn14 KO mice compared with WT mice. Administration of anti-TWEAK antibody reduced 5-FU-induced diarrhea without affecting the antitumor effects of 5-FU in vivo. 5-FU-induced expression of IL-13, IL-17A, TNF-α, and IFN-γ in the ileum was Fn14 dependent. The severity of 5-FU-induced diarrhea was lower in IL-13Rα1 KO mice, indicating major role for IL-13 signaling via IL-13Rα1 in pathogenesis. We found that IL-13Rα2, an IL-13 neutralizing/cell protective receptor, was strongly induced by IL-33 in vitro and in vivo. IL-13Rα2 was upregulated in the ileum of 5-FU-treated Fn14 KO mice. Thus, the deletion of Fn14 upregulated IL-13Rα2 expression, which reduced IL-13 expression and activity.
CONCLUSION Disruption of the TWEAK/Fn14 pathway affects several interconnected pathways, including those associated with IL-13, IL-33, and IL-13Rα2, to attenuate 5-FU-induced intestinal side effects.
Collapse
|
14
|
Sun Y, Han Y, Wang X, Wang W, Wang X, Wen M, Xia J, Xing H, Li X, Zhang Z. Correlation of EGFR Del 19 with Fn14/JAK/STAT signaling molecules in non-small cell lung cancer. Oncol Rep 2016; 36:1030-40. [PMID: 27350337 DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.4905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has shown that p-EGFR (particularly mutated EGFR) may activate fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) expression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and the JAK/STAT signaling pathway may participate in this process. Thus, in order to verify this hypothesis, correlations among the expression levels of EGFR Del 19, Fn14 and JAK/STAT were detected and analyzed. The expression and location of these molecules were assessed using IHC, immunohistofluorescence, RT-qPCR and western blotting. The differences and correlations in the expression of these molecules and clinical pathological characteristics were statistically analyzed using Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal‑Wallis H and cross-table tests. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the effect of EGFR Del 19 and Fn14 expression on survival. Data showed that EGFR Del 19, Fn14 and JAK1/STAT1 expression was significantly related with differentiation, pTNM stage and lymphatic metastasis (P<0.01) and there was a marked correlation of EGFR Del 19, Fn14 and JAK1/STAT1 expression with histological type, differentiation, pTNM stage of NSCLC (P<0.05; rs>0.3). Immunohistofluorescence showed that there was a co-localization phenomenon between EGFR Del 19 and Fn14 expression. NSCLC patients with higher EGFR Del 19/Fn14 expression had a significantly worse prognosis than those with lower EGFR Del 19/Fn14 expression (P=0.0155/P=0.001; log-rank test). The multivariate analysis indicated that Fn14 expression may be an independent prognostic factor in NSCLC with EGFR Del 19 [hazard ratio (HR), 0.326; P=0.042]. Therefore, our results indicate that EGFR Del 19 may promote Fn14 and JAK1/STAT1 expression in NSCLC and Fn14 may serve as a prognostic biomarker in NSCLC with EGFR Del 19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| | - Yong Han
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoping Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| | - Wuping Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| | - Xuejiao Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| | - Miaomiao Wen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| | - Jinghua Xia
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| | - Hao Xing
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| | - Zhipei Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710038, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 regulates cell growth and multidrug resistance of small-cell lung cancer through the nuclear factor-κB pathway. Anticancer Drugs 2016; 25:1152-64. [PMID: 25054270 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) has been reported to play an oncogene role in many types of cancer. However, its biological functions in small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) remain unknown. The aim of this study is to investigate the roles of Fn14 in the cell growth and chemoresistance of SCLC and its possible molecular mechanism. Expression of Fn14 was examined in 51 cases of SCLC tissues by immunohistochemistry. Overexpression or knockdown of Fn14 was carried out in SCLC multidrug-resistant cell lines (H69AR and H446AR) and the parental cell lines (H69 and H446) to assess its influence on cell growth and chemoresistance. The results showed that Fn14 was expressed in 50.98% (26/51) of SCLC. Overexpression of Fn14 was associated with the poor pathologic stage of SCLC (P < 0.05 by the Fisher's exact test) and the shorter survival time (by the Kaplan-Meier method). Enforced expression of Fn14 in H69 and H446 cells promoted cell growth and enhanced multidrug resistance by decreasing cell apoptosis and increasing G2-phase cell accumulation. Inhibition of Fn14 expression using Fn14 shRNA in H69AR and H446AR cells inhibited cell growth and sensitized cancer cells to chemotherapeutic drugs by increasing drug-induced cell apoptosis accompanied by G1, S phase arrest. Furthermore, elevated expression of Fn14 in H69 and H446 cells can lead to increased expression of Bcl-xl and activity of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Similar results were observed by Fn14 knockdown H69AR and H446AR cells. Bcl-xl expression regulated by Fn14 was dependent on NF-κB activation. Our results suggest that Fn14 modulates cell growth and drug resistance by upregulating Bcl-xl expression through the NF-κB pathway. All findings provide insight into the Fn14 signaling mechanism and Fn14 may be a potentially novel target for interfering with cancer growth and chemoresistance in SCLC.
Collapse
|
16
|
Meulendijks D, Lassen UN, Siu LL, Huitema ADR, Karanikas V, Mau-Sorensen M, Jonker DJ, Hansen AR, Simcox ME, Schostack KJ, Bottino D, Zhong H, Roessler M, Vega-Harring SM, Jarutat T, Geho D, Wang K, DeMario M, Goss GD, Schellens JHM. Exposure and Tumor Fn14 Expression as Determinants of Pharmacodynamics of the Anti-TWEAK Monoclonal Antibody RG7212 in Patients with Fn14-Positive Solid Tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 22:858-67. [PMID: 26446946 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-15-1506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The TWEAK-Fn14 pathway represents a novel anticancer target that is being actively investigated. Understanding the relationship between pharmacokinetics of anti-TWEAK therapeutics and tumor pharmacodynamics is critical. We investigated exposure-response relationships of RG7212, an anti-TWEAK mAb, in patients with Fn14-expressing tumors. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Patients with Fn14-positive tumors (IHC ≥ 1+) treated in a phase I first-in-human study with ascending doses of RG7212 were the basis for this analysis. Pharmacokinetics of RG7212 and dynamics of TWEAK were determined, as were changes in tumor TWEAK-Fn14 signaling in paired pre- and posttreatment tumor biopsies. The objectives of the analysis were to define exposure-response relationships and the relationship between pretreatment tumor Fn14 expression and pharmacodynamic effect. Associations between changes in TWEAK-Fn14 signaling and clinical outcome were explored. RESULTS Thirty-six patients were included in the analysis. RG7212 reduced plasma TWEAK to undetectable levels at all observed RG7212 exposures. In contrast, reductions in tumor Fn14 and TRAF1 protein expression were observed only at higher exposure (≥ 300 mg*h/mL). Significant reductions in tumor Ki-67 expression and early changes in serum concentrations of CCL-2 and MMP-9 were observed exclusively in patients with higher drug exposure who had high pretreatment tumor Fn14 expression. Pretreatment tumor Fn14 expression was not associated with outcome, but a trend toward longer time on study was observed with high versus low RG7212 exposure. CONCLUSIONS RG7212 reduced tumor TWEAK-Fn14 signaling in a systemic exposure-dependent manner. In addition to higher exposure, relatively high Fn14 expression might be required for pharmacodynamic effect of anti-TWEAK monoclonal antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Didier Meulendijks
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ulrik N Lassen
- Department of Oncology, The Finsen Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lillian L Siu
- Ontario Cancer Institute/Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alwin D R Huitema
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Vaios Karanikas
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Morten Mau-Sorensen
- Department of Oncology, The Finsen Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Aaron R Hansen
- Ontario Cancer Institute/Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mary E Simcox
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, New York, New York
| | - Kathleen J Schostack
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, New York, New York
| | - Dean Bottino
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, New York, New York
| | - Hua Zhong
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, New York, New York
| | - Markus Roessler
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Suzana M Vega-Harring
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Tiantom Jarutat
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Penzberg, Germany
| | - David Geho
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, New York, New York
| | - Karen Wang
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, New York, New York
| | - Mark DeMario
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Jan H M Schellens
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Science Faculty, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pyruvate kinase M2 affects liver cancer cell behavior through up-regulation of HIF-1α and Bcl-xL in culture. Biomed Pharmacother 2014; 69:277-84. [PMID: 25661370 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2014.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells consume large amounts of glucose to produce lactate, even in the presence of ample oxygen. This phenomenon is known as the Warburg effect. The pyruvate kinase promotes aerobic glycolysis, and the pyruvate kinase M2 isoform (PKM2) is highly expressed in many cancer cells. Although the Warburg effect is a hallmark of cancer, the mechanism by which PKM2 contributes to the Warburg effect, and its role in tumor growth remain to be defined. We proposed that PKM2 activates transcription of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) by phosphorylating STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) at Y705 (tyrosine 705) as a plausible mechanism for liver cancer cell proliferation. In the current study, we observed that PKM2 was over-expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues. The experiments further indicate that nuclear PKM2 is an active protein kinase in cultured cells. Knockdown of PKM2 affected the levels of HIF-1α and Bcl-xL (B-cell lymphoma-extra large), suggesting that PKM2 plays an important role in promoting cell proliferation. In conclusion, the current findings demonstrate that PKM2 is an active protein kinase, and promotes liver cancer cell proliferation by up-regulating HIF-1α and Bcl-xL expression.
Collapse
|
18
|
Cheng E, Whitsett TG, Tran NL, Winkles JA. The TWEAK Receptor Fn14 Is an Src-Inducible Protein and a Positive Regulator of Src-Driven Cell Invasion. Mol Cancer Res 2014; 13:575-83. [PMID: 25392346 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-14-0411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The TNF receptor superfamily member Fn14 (TNFRSF12A) is the sole signaling receptor for the proinflammatory cytokine TWEAK (TNFSF12). TWEAK Fn14 engagement stimulates multiple signal transduction pathways, including the NF-κB pathway, and this triggers important cellular processes (e.g., growth, differentiation, migration, and invasion). The TWEAK-Fn14 axis is thought to be a major physiologic mediator of tissue repair after acute injury. Various studies have revealed that Fn14 is highly expressed in many solid tumor types, and that Fn14 signaling may play a role in tumor growth and metastasis. Previously, it was shown that Fn14 levels are frequently elevated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumors and cell lines that exhibit constitutive EGFR phosphorylation (activation). Furthermore, elevated Fn14 levels increased NSCLC cell invasion in vitro and lung metastatic tumor colonization in vivo. The present study reveals that EGFR-mutant NSCLC cells that express high levels of Fn14 exhibit constitutive activation of the cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase Src, and that treatment with the Src family kinase (SFK) inhibitor dasatinib decreases Fn14 gene expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. Importantly, siRNA-mediated depletion of the SFK member Src in NSCLC cells also decreases Fn14 expression. Finally, expression of the constitutively active v-Src oncoprotein in NIH 3T3 cells induces Fn14 gene expression, and NIH 3T3/v-Src cells require Fn14 expression for full invasive capacity. IMPLICATIONS These results indicate that oncogenic Src may contribute to Fn14 overexpression in solid tumors, and that Src-mediated cell invasion could potentially be inhibited with Fn14-targeted therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Cheng
- Department of Surgery, Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Timothy G Whitsett
- Cancer and Cell Biology Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Nhan L Tran
- Cancer and Cell Biology Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Jeffrey A Winkles
- Department of Surgery, Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lassen UN, Meulendijks D, Siu LL, Karanikas V, Mau-Sorensen M, Schellens JHM, Jonker DJ, Hansen AR, Simcox ME, Schostack KJ, Bottino D, Zhong H, Roessler M, Vega-Harring SM, Jarutat T, Geho D, Wang K, DeMario M, Goss GD. A phase I monotherapy study of RG7212, a first-in-class monoclonal antibody targeting TWEAK signaling in patients with advanced cancers. Clin Cancer Res 2014; 21:258-66. [PMID: 25388164 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-1334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) and fibroblast growth factor-inducible molecule 14 (Fn14) are a ligand-receptor pair frequently overexpressed in solid tumors. TWEAK Fn14 signaling regulates multiple oncogenic processes through MAPK, AKT, and NFκB pathway activation. A phase I study of RG7212, a humanized anti-TWEAK IgG1κ monoclonal antibody, was conducted in patients with advanced solid tumors expressing Fn14. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Dose escalations, over a 200- to 7,200-mg range, were performed with patients enrolled in weekly (QW), bi-weekly (Q2W), or every-three-week (Q3W) schedules. Primary objectives included determination of dose and safety profile. Secondary endpoints included assessments related to inhibition of TWEAK Fn14 signaling, tumor proliferation, tumor immune cell infiltration, and pharmacokinetics. RESULTS In 192 treatment cycles administered to 54 patients, RG7212 was well-tolerated with no dose-limiting toxicities observed. More than 95% of related adverse events were limited to grade 1/2. Pharmacokinetics were dose proportional for all cohorts, with a t1/2 of 11 to 12 days. Pharmacodynamic changes included clearance of free and total TWEAK ligand and reductions in tumor Ki-67 and TRAF1. A patient with BRAF wild-type melanoma who received 36 weeks of RG7212 therapy had tumor regression and pharmacodynamic changes consistent with antitumor effects. Fifteen patients (28%) received 16 or more weeks of RG7212 treatment. CONCLUSION RG7212 demonstrated excellent tolerability and favorable pharmacokinetics. Pharmacodynamic endpoints were consistent with reduced TWEAK Fn14 signaling. Tumor regression was observed and prolonged stable disease was demonstrated in multiple heavily pretreated patients with solid tumors. These encouraging results support further study of RG7212. Clin Cancer Res; 21(2); 258-66. ©2014 AACR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrik N Lassen
- Department of Oncology, The Finsen Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Didier Meulendijks
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lilian L Siu
- Ontario Cancer Institute/Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vaios Karanikas
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Translational Medicine Oncology, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Morten Mau-Sorensen
- Department of Oncology, The Finsen Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jan H M Schellens
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Aaron R Hansen
- Ontario Cancer Institute/Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mary E Simcox
- Roche Translational Clinical Research Center Inc., New York, New York
| | | | - Dean Bottino
- Roche Translational Clinical Research Center Inc., New York, New York
| | - Hua Zhong
- Roche Translational Clinical Research Center Inc., New York, New York
| | | | | | | | - David Geho
- Roche Translational Clinical Research Center Inc., New York, New York
| | - Ka Wang
- Roche Translational Clinical Research Center Inc., New York, New York
| | - Mark DeMario
- Roche Translational Clinical Research Center Inc., New York, New York
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhou H, Mohamedali KA, Gonzalez-Angulo AM, Cao Y, Migliorini M, Cheung LH, LoBello J, Lei X, Qi Y, Hittelman WN, Winkles JA, Tran NL, Rosenblum MG. Development of human serine protease-based therapeutics targeting Fn14 and identification of Fn14 as a new target overexpressed in TNBC. Mol Cancer Ther 2014; 13:2688-705. [PMID: 25239934 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-14-0346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The cytokine TWEAK and its receptor, Fn14, have emerged as potentially valuable targets for cancer therapy. Granzyme B (GrB)-containing Fn14-targeted constructs were generated containing either the Fn14 ligand TWEAK (GrB-TWEAK) or an anti-Fn14 humanized single-chain antibody (GrB-Fc-IT4) as the targeting moieties. Both constructs showed high affinity and selective cytotoxicity against a panel of Fn14-expressing human tumor cells including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lines. Cellular expression of the GrB inhibitor PI-9 in target cells had no impact on the cytotoxic effect of either construct. Cellular expression of MDR1 showed no cross-resistance to the fusion constructs. GrB-TWEAK and GrB-Fc-IT4 activated intracellular caspase cascades and cytochrome c-related proapoptotic pathways consistent with the known intracellular functions of GrB in target cells. Treatment of mice bearing established HT-29 xenografts with GrB-TWEAK showed significant tumor growth inhibition compared with vehicle alone (P < 0.05). Both GrB-TWEAK and GrB-Fc-IT4 displayed significant tumor growth inhibition when administered to mice bearing orthotopic MDA-MB-231 (TNBC) tumor xenografts. The Cancer Genome Atlas analysis revealed that Fn14 mRNA expression was significantly higher in TNBC and in HER2-positive disease (P < 0.0001) compared with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, and in basal-like 2 tumors (P = 0.01) compared with other TNBC molecular subtypes. IHC analysis of a 101 patient TNBC tumor microarray showed that 55 of 101 (54%) of tumors stained positive for Fn14, suggesting that this may be an excellent potential target for precision therapeutic approaches. Targeting Fn14 using fully human, GrB-containing fusion constructs may form the basis for a new class of novel, potent, and highly effective constructs for targeted therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhou
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Khalid A Mohamedali
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Ana Maria Gonzalez-Angulo
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas. Department of Systems Biology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Yu Cao
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Mary Migliorini
- Department of Surgery, Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, and the Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Lawrence H Cheung
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Janine LoBello
- Integrated Cancer Genomics Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Xiudong Lei
- Department of Biostatistics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Yuan Qi
- Department of Bioinformatics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Walter N Hittelman
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jeffrey A Winkles
- Department of Surgery, Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, and the Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nhan L Tran
- Cancer and Cell Biology Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Michael G Rosenblum
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wajant H. The TWEAK-Fn14 system as a potential drug target. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 170:748-64. [PMID: 23957828 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) is a member of the tumour necrosis factor (TNF) receptor family that is induced in a variety of cell types in situations of tissue injury. Fn14 becomes activated by TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), a typical member of the TNF ligand family. TWEAK is constitutively expressed by monocytes and some tumour cell lines and also shows cytokine inducible expression in various other cell types. Fn14 activation results in stimulation of signalling pathways culminating in the activation of NFκB transcription factors and various MAPKs but might also trigger the PI3K/Akt pathway and GTPases of the Rho family. In accordance with its tissue damage-associated expression pattern and its pleiotropic proinflammatory signalling capabilities, the TWEAK-Fn14 system has been implicated in a huge number of pathologies. The use of TWEAK- and Fn14-knockout mice identified the TWEAK-Fn14 system as a crucial player in muscle atrophy, cerebral ischaemia, kidney injury, atherosclerosis and infarction as well as in various autoimmune scenarios including experimental autoimmune encephalitis, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Moreover, there is increasing preclinical evidence that Fn14 targeting is a useful option in tumour therapy. Based on a discussion of the signalling capabilities of TWEAK and Fn14, this review is focused on two major issues. On the one hand, on the molecular and cellular basis of the TWEAK/Fn14-related pathological outcomes in the aforementioned diseases and on the other hand, on the preclinical experience that have been made so far with TWEAK and Fn14 targeting drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harald Wajant
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wang F, Bu G, Feng Q, Liu Z, Xu C, Shen S, Yuan Y. The expression level of TRAF1 in human gastric mucosa is related to virulence genotypes of Helicobacter pylori. Scand J Gastroenterol 2014; 49:925-32. [PMID: 24852885 DOI: 10.3109/00365521.2014.919015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression level of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 1 (TRAF1) in gastric mucosa tissue in patients infected with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and to analyze the relationship between TRAF1 expression and H. pylori virulence. METHODS Gastric tissue samples were collected from patients with gastritis, atrophic gastritis, intestinal metaplasia with atypical hyperplasia, and gastric cancer. The expression level of TRAF1 in each group was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot analysis. Virulence genotypes of H. pylori were determined by PCR. RESULTS Significant differences in TRAF1 mRNA levels were observed between the gastritis and gastric cancer groups, and the atrophic gastritis and gastric cancer groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, significant differences in TRAF1 protein levels were observed between the gastritis and intestinal metaplasia with atypical hyperplasia groups, between the gastritis and gastric cancer groups, and between the atrophic gastritis and gastric cancer groups (all p < 0.05). The virulence genotypes of cytotoxin-associated gene A (cagA), vacAs1, and vacAm1 were more frequent in the TRAF1 high-level group than in the TRAF1 low-level group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Higher TARF1 expression level is associated with infection by CagA(+)/vacAs1(+)/m1(+) virulent H. pylori strains and may promote the proliferation of gastric mucosal cells and induce gastric cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fen Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Burkly LC. TWEAK/Fn14 axis: The current paradigm of tissue injury-inducible function in the midst of complexities. Semin Immunol 2014; 26:229-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2014.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
24
|
Low blood levels of sTWEAK are related to locoregional failure in head and neck cancer. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2014; 272:1733-41. [PMID: 24858806 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-014-3095-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Identifying serum pre-treatment molecular markers that can predict response to therapy is of great interest in head and neck oncology and is required to develop personalized treatments that maximize survival while minimizing morbidity. The main aim was to investigate the potential prognostic significance of tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), and its receptors, fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) and CD163, in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The study comprised 37 consecutive patients with pathologically confirmed, untreated HNSCC. Serum and tissue samples from these patients were available for study. We determined sTWEAK and sCD163 levels in serum from 37 HNSCC patients by ELISA. TWEAK, CD163, Fn14 and TNF-α gene expression were detected by real-time RT-PCR in 111 matched tissue samples (tumoral, adjacent and distal/normal mucosa). Our results showed a significant relationship between low sTWEAK levels and poor locoregional control of the disease. Kaplan-Meier curves indicated that the locoregional recurrence-free survival rate in patients with low sTWEAK circulating levels was significantly lower than in patients with high levels, and that high CD136/TWEAK expression ratio in tumors was also related to poor prognosis. sTWEAK pre-treatment serum levels might be used as prognostic non-invasive biomarkers for locoregional control in patients with HNSCC. Future investigations are warranted to determine the potential prognostic significance of this non-invasive biomarker in the rapid discrimination according to the locoregional control achieved in patients who received a non-surgical organ preservation treatment.
Collapse
|
25
|
Gurunathan S, Winkles JA, Ghosh S, Hayden MS. Regulation of fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) expression levels via ligand-independent lysosomal degradation. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:12976-88. [PMID: 24652288 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.563478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) is a highly inducible cytokine receptor that engages multiple intracellular signaling pathways, including nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Fn14 expression is regulated by several cytokines and growth factors, and Fn14 is transiently up-regulated after injury. In contrast, in states of chronic inflammatory disease and in some solid tumors, Fn14 is persistently up-regulated. However, the post-translational regulation of Fn14 expression has not been directly investigated. Thus, we examined Fn14 proteostasis in the presence and absence of the Fn14 ligand TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK). Similar to other TNF receptor superfamily members, we found that TWEAK induces Fn14 internalization and degradation. Surprisingly, we also observed rapid, TWEAK-independent, constitutive Fn14 internalization and turnover. Fn14 levels are maintained in cell culture by ongoing synthesis and trafficking of the receptor, leading to subsequent down-regulation by lysosomal degradation. Unexpectedly, the extracellular domain of Fn14 is necessary and sufficient for constitutive turnover. Based on these findings, we propose a model in which constitutive down-regulation of Fn14 facilitates dynamic regulation of Fn14 protein levels and prevents spontaneous or inappropriate receptor signaling.
Collapse
|
26
|
Kwon OH, Kim JH, Kim SY, Kim YS. TWEAK/Fn14 signaling mediates gastric cancer cell resistance to 5-fluorouracil via NF-κB activation. Int J Oncol 2013; 44:583-90. [PMID: 24337061 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2013.2211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance is one of the most serious problems in the treatment of cancer. In the present study, we show that Fn14 promotes resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in gastric cancer (GC). We found that 5-FU treatment upregulated Fn14 expression in various cancer cell lines, including GC cell lines, and that knockdown of Fn14 using shRNA accelerated 5-FU sensitivity. In contrast, Fn14 overexpression or TWEAK treatment promoted resistance to 5-FU. Furthermore, we investigated the mechanisms underlying Fn14-mediated chemoresistance. We first revealed that 5-FU-mediated upregulation of Fn14 occurred as a result of NF-κB activation, indicating that 5-FU-mediated NF-κB activation was the principal event underlying Fn14 upregulation and 5-FU resistance in GC. Taken together, our results suggest that Fn14 is a novel therapeutic target and that inhibition of Fn14 combined with 5-FU treatment may be an effective molecular therapeutic strategy to treat 5-FU-resistant gastric cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oh-Hyung Kwon
- Medical Genomics Research Center, KRIBB, Daejeon 305-806, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Hwan Kim
- Medical Genomics Research Center, KRIBB, Daejeon 305-806, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Young Kim
- Medical Genomics Research Center, KRIBB, Daejeon 305-806, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sung Kim
- Medical Genomics Research Center, KRIBB, Daejeon 305-806, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Yin X, Luistro L, Zhong H, Smith M, Nevins T, Schostack K, Hilton H, Lin TA, Truitt T, Biondi D, Wang X, Packman K, Rosinski J, Berkofsky-Fessler W, Tang JP, Pant S, Geho D, Vega-Harring S, DeMario M, Levitsky H, Simcox M. RG7212 Anti-TWEAK mAb Inhibits Tumor Growth through Inhibition of Tumor Cell Proliferation and Survival Signaling and by Enhancing the Host Antitumor Immune Response. Clin Cancer Res 2013; 19:5686-98. [DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-13-0405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
28
|
Uppal DS, Powell SM. Genetics/genomics/proteomics of gastric adenocarcinoma. Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2013; 42:241-60. [PMID: 23639639 DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2013.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary diffuse gastric cancer can be caused by epithelial cadherin mutations for which genetic testing is available. Inherited cancer predisposition syndromes including Lynch, Li-Fraumeni, and Peutz-Jeghers syndromes, can be associated with gastric cancer. Chromosomal and microsatellite instability occur in gastric cancers. Several consistent genetic and molecular alterations including chromosomal instability, microsatellite instability, and epigenetic alterations have been identified in gastric cancers. Biomarkers and molecular profiles are being discovered with potential for diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment guidance implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dushant S Uppal
- Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0708, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Zhou H, Hittelman WN, Yagita H, Cheung LH, Martin SS, Winkles JA, Rosenblum MG. Antitumor activity of a humanized, bivalent immunotoxin targeting fn14-positive solid tumors. Cancer Res 2013; 73:4439-50. [PMID: 23722548 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-13-0187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK; TNFSF12) receptor Fn14 (TNFRSF12A) is expressed at low levels in normal tissues but frequently highly expressed in a wide range of tumor types such as lung, melanoma, and breast, and therefore it is a potentially unique therapeutic target for these diverse tumor types. We have generated a recombinant protein containing a humanized, dimeric single-chain anti-fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14-kDa protein (Fn14) antibody fused to recombinant gelonin toxin as a potential therapeutic agent (designated hSGZ). The hSGZ immunotoxin is a highly potent and selective agent that kills Fn14-positive (Fn14(+)) tumor cells in vitro. Treatment of cells expressing the MDR protein MDR1 (ABCB1B) showed no cross-resistance to hSGZ. Induced overexpression of Fn14 levels in MCF7 cells through HER2 (ERBB2) signaling translated to an improved therapeutic index of hSGZ treatment. In combination with trastuzumab, hSGZ showed an additive or synergistic cytotoxic effect on HER2(+)/Fn14(+) breast cancer cell lines. Also, hSGZ treatment inhibited Erb3/Akt signaling in HER2-overexpressing breast cancer cells. Pharmacokinetic studies in mice revealed that hSGZ exhibited a biexponential clearance from plasma with a rapid initial clearance (t1/2α = 1.26 hours) followed by a seven-fold longer plasma half-life (t1/2β = 7.29 hours). At 24, 48, and 72 hours after injection, uptake of the hSGZ into tumors was 5.1, 4.8, and 4.7%ID/g, with a tumor-to-muscle ratio of 5.6, 6.2, and 9.0, respectively. Therapeutic efficacy studies showed significant tumor inhibition effects using an MDA-MB-231/Luc breast cancer xenograft model. Our findings show that hSGZ is an effective anticancer agent and a potential candidate for clinical studies.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 1/genetics
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 1/metabolism
- Animals
- Antibodies, Bispecific/pharmacokinetics
- Antibodies, Bispecific/pharmacology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacokinetics
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Breast Neoplasms/genetics
- Breast Neoplasms/immunology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Female
- Half-Life
- Humans
- Immunotoxins/pharmacokinetics
- Immunotoxins/pharmacology
- MCF-7 Cells
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism
- Receptor, ErbB-2/genetics
- Receptor, ErbB-2/metabolism
- Receptor, ErbB-3/genetics
- Receptor, ErbB-3/metabolism
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor/genetics
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor/immunology
- Recombinant Proteins/pharmacokinetics
- Recombinant Proteins/pharmacology
- Ribosome Inactivating Proteins, Type 1/pharmacokinetics
- Ribosome Inactivating Proteins, Type 1/pharmacology
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/genetics
- TWEAK Receptor
- Trastuzumab
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhou
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Asrani K, Keri RA, Galisteo R, Brown SAN, Morgan SJ, Ghosh A, Tran NL, Winkles JA. The HER2- and heregulin β1 (HRG)-inducible TNFR superfamily member Fn14 promotes HRG-driven breast cancer cell migration, invasion, and MMP9 expression. Mol Cancer Res 2013; 11:393-404. [PMID: 23378579 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-12-0542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
HER2 overexpression occurs in 15% to 20% of all breast cancers and is associated with increased metastatic potential and poor patient survival. Abnormal HER2 activation, either through HER2 overexpression or heregulin (HRG):HER3 binding, elicits the formation of potent HER2-HER3 heterodimers and drives breast cancer cell growth and metastasis. In a previous study, we found that fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14), a member of the TNF receptor superfamily, was frequently overexpressed in human HER2+ breast tumors. We report here that HER2 and Fn14 are also coexpressed in mammary tumors that develop in two different transgenic mouse models of breast cancer. In consideration of these findings, we investigated whether HER2 activation in breast cancer cells could directly induce Fn14 gene expression. We found that transient or stable transfection of MCF7 cells with a HER2 expression plasmid increased Fn14 protein levels. Also, HRG1-β1 treatment of MCF7 cells transiently induced Fn14 mRNA and protein expression. Both the HER2- and HRG1-β1-induced increase in Fn14 expression in MCF7 cells as well as basal Fn14 expression in HER2 gene-amplified AU565 cells could be reduced by HER2 kinase inhibition with lapatinib or combined HER2 and HER3 depletion using siRNA. We also report that Fn14-depleted, HER2-overexpressing MCF7 cells have reduced basal cell migration capacity and reduced HRG1-β1-stimulated cell migration, invasion, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 expression. Together, these results indicate that Fn14 may be an important downstream regulator of HER2/HER3-driven breast cancer cell migration and invasion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaushal Asrani
- Department of Surgery, Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Pettersen I, Baryawno N, Abel F, Bakkelund WH, Zykova SN, Winberg JO, Moens U, Rasmuson A, Kogner P, Johnsen JI, Sveinbjörnsson B. Expression of TWEAK/Fn14 in neuroblastoma: implications in tumorigenesis. Int J Oncol 2013; 42:1239-48. [PMID: 23443741 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2013.1800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 11/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family of cytokines, acts on responsive cells via binding to a cell surface receptor called Fn14. TWEAK binding to an Fn14 receptor or constitutive Fn14 overexpression has been shown to activate nuclear factor κB signaling which is important in tumorigenesis and cancer therapy resistance. In the present study, we demonstrate that TWEAK and Fn14 are expressed in neuroblastoma cell lines and primary tumors, and both are observed at increased levels in high-stage tumors. The treatment of neuroblastoma cell lines with recombinant TWEAK in vitro causes increased survival, and this effect is partially due to the activation of NF-κB signaling. Moreover, TWEAK induces the release of matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9) in neuroblastoma cells, suggesting that TWEAK may play a role in the invasive phase of neuroblastoma tumorigenesis. TWEAK-induced cell survival was significantly reduced by silencing the TWEAK and Fn14 gene functions by siRNA. Thus, the expression of TWEAK and Fn14 in neuroblastoma suggests that TWEAK functions as an important regulator of primary neuroblastoma growth, invasion and survival and that the therapeutic intervention of the TWEAK/Fn14 pathway may be an important clinical strategy in neuroblastoma therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingvild Pettersen
- Translational Cancer Research Group, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhou H, Ekmekcioglu S, Marks JW, Mohamedali KA, Asrani K, Phillips KK, Brown SAN, Cheng E, Weiss MB, Hittelman WN, Tran NL, Yagita H, Winkles JA, Rosenblum MG. The TWEAK receptor Fn14 is a therapeutic target in melanoma: immunotoxins targeting Fn14 receptor for malignant melanoma treatment. J Invest Dermatol 2012. [PMID: 23190886 PMCID: PMC3600159 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2012.402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fn14, the cell surface receptor for TWEAK, is over-expressed in various human solid tumor types and can be a negative prognostic indicator. We detected Fn14 expression in ~60% of the melanoma cell lines we tested, including both B-Raf WT and B-RafV600E lines. Tumor tissue microarray analysis indicated that Fn14 expression was low in normal skin but elevated in 173/190 (92%) of primary melanoma specimens and in 86/150 (58%) of melanoma metastases tested. We generated both a chemical conjugate composed of the rGel toxin and the anti-Fn14 antibody ITEM-4 (designated ITEM4-rGel) and a humanized, dimeric single-chain antibody of ITEM-4 fused to rGel (designated hSGZ). Both ITEM4-rGel and hSGZ were highly cytotoxic to a panel of different melanoma cell lines. Mechanistic studies showed that both immunotoxins induced melanoma cell necrosis. Also, these immunotoxins could up-regulate the cellular expression of Fn14 and trigger cell signaling events similar to the Fn14 ligand TWEAK. Finally, treatment of mice bearing human melanoma MDA-MB-435 xenografts with either ITEM4-rGel or hSGZ showed significant tumor growth inhibition compared to controls. We conclude that Fn14 is a novel therapeutic target in melanoma and the hSGZ construct appears to warrant further development as a novel therapeutic agent against Fn14-positive melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhou
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, UT M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kwon OH, Kang TW, Kim JH, Kim M, Noh SM, Song KS, Yoo HS, Kim WH, Xie Z, Pocalyko D, Kim SY, Kim YS. Pyruvate kinase M2 promotes the growth of gastric cancer cells via regulation of Bcl-xL expression at transcriptional level. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 423:38-44. [PMID: 22627140 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.05.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2012] [Accepted: 05/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PKM2 is an isoenzyme of the glycolytic enzyme pyruvate kinase that promotes aerobic glycolysis. Here, we describe an important role for PKM2 in regulating the survival of gastric cancer (GC) cells. We showed that PKM2 was overexpressed in gastric tumor tissues compared to normal tissues and its expression level was associated with poor survival of gastric cancer patients. We also showed that PKM2 affected cell survival by regulating Bcl-xL at the transcriptional level. PKM2 knockdown partially affected the stability of NF-kB subunit p65, suggesting that post-translational regulation of p65 by PKM2 is one of plausible mechanisms for the increased cell growth. Therefore, PKM2 may function as an upstream molecule that regulates p65 function and thus enhances the growth of tumor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oh-Hyung Kwon
- Medical Genomics Research Center, KRIBB, Daejeon 305-806, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|