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Shen X, Tan J, Liu R, Zhu G, Rooper L, Xing M. The genetic duet of concurrent RASAL1 and PTEN alterations promotes cancer aggressiveness by cooperatively activating the PI3K-AKT pathway. Mol Oncol 2024. [PMID: 39032134 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The significance of the prominent tumor suppressor gene for RAS protein activator-like 1 (RASAL1) could be better understood by combined genetic, clinical, and functional studies. Here, we investigated the oncogenic and clinical impacts of genetic alterations of RASAL1, particularly when coexisting with genetic alterations of the gene for phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), in 9924 cancers of 33 types in the TCGA database. We found common concurrent genetic alterations of the two genes, which were cooperatively associated with activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT pathway, with cancer progression and mortality rates being 46.36% and 31.72% with concurrent gene alterations, versus 29.80% and 16.93% with neither gene alteration (HR 1.64, 95% CI 1.46-1.84 and 1.77, 95% CI 1.53-2.05), respectively. This was enhanced by additional tumor protein p53 (TP53) gene alterations, with cancer progression and mortality rates being 47.65% and 34.46% with coexisting RASAL1, PTEN, and TP53 alterations versus 25.30% and 13.11% with no alteration (HR 2.21, 95% CI 1.92-2.56 and 2.76, 95% CI 2.31-3.30), respectively. In the case of breast cancer, this genetic trio was associated with a triple-negative risk of 68.75% versus 3.83% with no genetic alteration (RR 17.94, 95% CI 9.60-33.51), consistent with the aggressive nature of triple-negative breast cancer. Mice with double knockouts of Rasal1 and Pten displayed robust Pi3k pathway activation, with the development of metastasizing malignancies, while single gene knockout resulted in only benign neoplasma. These results suggest that RASAL1, like PTEN, is a critical player in negatively regulating the PI3K-AKT pathway; defect in RASAL1 causes RAS activation, thus initiating the PI3K-AKT pathway signaling, which cannot terminate with concurrent PTEN defects. Thus, the unique concurrent RASAL1 and PTEN defects drive oncogenesis and cancer aggressiveness by cooperatively activating the PI3K-AKT pathway. This represents a robust genetic mechanism to promote human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopei Shen
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jie Tan
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rengyun Liu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Guangwu Zhu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lisa Rooper
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mingzhao Xing
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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2
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Liu Y, Tang Q, Tao Q, Dong H, Shi Z, Zhou L. Low-frequency magnetic field therapy for glioblastoma: Current advances, mechanisms, challenges and future perspectives. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00125-5. [PMID: 38565404 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.03.024] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant tumour of the central nervous system. Despite recent advances in multimodal GBM therapy incorporating surgery, radiotherapy, systemic therapy (chemotherapy, targeted therapy), and supportive care, the overall survival (OS) remains poor, and long-term survival is rare. Currently, the primary obstacles hindering the effectiveness of GBM treatment are still the blood-brain barrier and tumor heterogeneity. In light of its substantial advantages over conventional therapies, such as strong penetrative ability and minimal side effects, low-frequency magnetic fields (LF-MFs) therapy has gradually caught the attention of scientists. AIM OF REVIEW In this review, we shed the light on the current status of applying LF-MFs in the treatment of GBM. We specifically emphasize our current understanding of the mechanisms by which LF-MFs mediate anticancer effects and the challenges faced by LF-MFs in treating GBM cells. Furthermore, we discuss the prospective applications of magnetic field therapy in the future treatment of GBM. Key scientific concepts of review: The review explores the current progress on the use of LF-MFs in the treatment of GBM with a special focus on the potential underlying mechanisms of LF-MFs in anticancer effects. Additionally, we also discussed the complex magnetic field features and biological characteristics related to magnetic bioeffects. Finally, we proposed a promising magnetic field treatment strategy for future applications in GBM therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinlong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, China
| | - Qisheng Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, China; National Center for Neurological Disorders, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, China; Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, China
| | - Quan Tao
- Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, China
| | - Hui Dong
- Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, China
| | - Zhifeng Shi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, China; National Center for Neurological Disorders, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, China; Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, China.
| | - Liangfu Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, China; National Center for Neurological Disorders, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, China; Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, China.
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3
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Catalano M, Limatola C, Trettel F. Non-neoplastic astrocytes: key players for brain tumor progression. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 17:1352130. [PMID: 38293652 PMCID: PMC10825036 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1352130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are highly plastic cells whose activity is essential to maintain the cerebral homeostasis, regulating synaptogenesis and synaptic transmission, vascular and metabolic functions, ions, neuro- and gliotransmitters concentrations. In pathological conditions, astrocytes may undergo transient or long-lasting molecular and functional changes that contribute to disease resolution or exacerbation. In recent years, many studies demonstrated that non-neoplastic astrocytes are key cells of the tumor microenvironment that contribute to the pathogenesis of glioblastoma, the most common primary malignant brain tumor and of secondary metastatic brain tumors. This Mini Review covers the recent development of research on non-neoplastic astrocytes as tumor-modulators. Their double-edged capability to promote cancer progression or to represent potential tools to counteract brain tumors will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Catalano
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Limatola
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Flavia Trettel
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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4
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Bhutada I, Khambati F, Cheng SY, Tiek DM, Duckett D, Lawrence H, Vogelbaum MA, Mo Q, Chellappan SP, Padmanabhan J. CDK7 and CDK9 inhibition interferes with transcription, translation, and stemness, and induces cytotoxicity in GBM irrespective of temozolomide sensitivity. Neuro Oncol 2024; 26:70-84. [PMID: 37551745 PMCID: PMC10768977 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noad143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma (GBM) is refractory to current treatment modalities while side effects of treatments result in neurotoxicity and cognitive impairment. Here we test the hypothesis that inhibiting CDK7 or CDK9 would effectively combat GBM with reduced neurotoxicity. METHODS We examined the effect of a CDK7 inhibitor, THZ1, and multiple CDK9 inhibitors (SNS032, AZD4573, NVP2, and JSH150) on GBM cell lines, patient-derived temozolomide (TMZ)-resistant and responsive primary tumor cells and glioma stem cells (GSCs). Biochemical changes were assessed by western blotting, immunofluorescence, multispectral imaging, and RT-PCR. In vivo, efficacy was assessed in orthotopic and subcutaneous xenograft models. RESULTS CDK7 and CDK9 inhibitors suppressed the viability of TMZ-responsive and resistant GBM cells and GSCs at low nanomolar concentrations, with limited cytotoxic effects in vivo. The inhibitors abrogated RNA Pol II and p70S6K phosphorylation and nascent protein synthesis. Furthermore, the self-renewal of GSCs was significantly reduced with a corresponding reduction in Sox2 and Sox9 levels. Analysis of TCGA data showed increased expression of CDK7, CDK9, SOX2, SOX9, and RPS6KB1 in GBM; supporting this, multispectral imaging of a TMA revealed increased levels of CDK9, Sox2, Sox9, phospho-S6, and phospho-p70S6K in GBM compared to normal brains. RNA-Seq results suggested that inhibitors suppressed tumor-promoting genes while inducing tumor-suppressive genes. Furthermore, the studies conducted on subcutaneous and orthotopic GBM tumor xenograft models showed that administration of CDK9 inhibitors markedly suppressed tumor growth in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that CDK7 and CDK9 targeted therapies may be effective against TMZ-sensitive and resistant GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isha Bhutada
- Department of Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Fatema Khambati
- Department of Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Shi-Yuan Cheng
- The Ken and Ruth Devee Department of Neurology, Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute Northwestern Medicine, The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Deanna M Tiek
- The Ken and Ruth Devee Department of Neurology, Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute Northwestern Medicine, The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Derek Duckett
- Department of Drug Discovery, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Harshani Lawrence
- Department of Drug Discovery, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Michael A Vogelbaum
- Department of Neuro-Oncology and Neuro-Oncology Program, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Qianxing Mo
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Srikumar P Chellappan
- Department of Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jaya Padmanabhan
- Department of Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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5
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Dewdney B, Jenkins MR, Best SA, Freytag S, Prasad K, Holst J, Endersby R, Johns TG. From signalling pathways to targeted therapies: unravelling glioblastoma's secrets and harnessing two decades of progress. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:400. [PMID: 37857607 PMCID: PMC10587102 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01637-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma, a rare, and highly lethal form of brain cancer, poses significant challenges in terms of therapeutic resistance, and poor survival rates for both adult and paediatric patients alike. Despite advancements in brain cancer research driven by a technological revolution, translating our understanding of glioblastoma pathogenesis into improved clinical outcomes remains a critical unmet need. This review emphasises the intricate role of receptor tyrosine kinase signalling pathways, epigenetic mechanisms, and metabolic functions in glioblastoma tumourigenesis and therapeutic resistance. We also discuss the extensive efforts over the past two decades that have explored targeted therapies against these pathways. Emerging therapeutic approaches, such as antibody-toxin conjugates or CAR T cell therapies, offer potential by specifically targeting proteins on the glioblastoma cell surface. Combination strategies incorporating protein-targeted therapy and immune-based therapies demonstrate great promise for future clinical research. Moreover, gaining insights into the role of cell-of-origin in glioblastoma treatment response holds the potential to advance precision medicine approaches. Addressing these challenges is crucial to improving outcomes for glioblastoma patients and moving towards more effective precision therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Dewdney
- Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
- Centre For Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia.
| | - Misty R Jenkins
- Immunology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, Australia
| | - Sarah A Best
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, Australia
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
| | - Saskia Freytag
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, Australia
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
| | - Krishneel Prasad
- Immunology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, Australia
| | - Jeff Holst
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Raelene Endersby
- Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre For Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Terrance G Johns
- Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre For Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
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6
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Chakraborty C, Nissen I, Vincent CA, Hägglund AC, Hörnblad A, Remeseiro S. Rewiring of the promoter-enhancer interactome and regulatory landscape in glioblastoma orchestrates gene expression underlying neurogliomal synaptic communication. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6446. [PMID: 37833281 PMCID: PMC10576091 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41919-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromatin organization controls transcription by modulating 3D-interactions between enhancers and promoters in the nucleus. Alterations in epigenetic states and 3D-chromatin organization result in gene expression changes contributing to cancer. Here, we map the promoter-enhancer interactome and regulatory landscape of glioblastoma, the most aggressive primary brain tumour. Our data reveals profound rewiring of promoter-enhancer interactions, chromatin accessibility and redistribution of histone marks in glioblastoma. This leads to loss of long-range regulatory interactions and overall activation of promoters, which orchestrate changes in the expression of genes associated to glutamatergic synapses, axon guidance, axonogenesis and chromatin remodelling. SMAD3 and PITX1 emerge as major transcription factors controlling genes related to synapse organization and axon guidance. Inhibition of SMAD3 and neuronal activity stimulation cooperate to promote proliferation of glioblastoma cells in co-culture with glutamatergic neurons, and in mice bearing patient-derived xenografts. Our findings provide mechanistic insight into the regulatory networks that mediate neurogliomal synaptic communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaitali Chakraborty
- Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine (UCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Itzel Nissen
- Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine (UCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Craig A Vincent
- Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine (UCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna-Carin Hägglund
- Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine (UCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Andreas Hörnblad
- Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine (UCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Silvia Remeseiro
- Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine (UCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
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7
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Farhat M, Fuller GN, Wintermark M, Chung C, Kumar VA, Chen M. Multifocal and multicentric glioblastoma: Imaging signature, molecular characterization, patterns of spread, and treatment. Neuroradiol J 2023:19714009231193162. [PMID: 37559514 DOI: 10.1177/19714009231193162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Multifocal and multicentric glioblastoma (GBM) or collectively, m-GBM, is an imaging diagnosis present in up to 34% of patients with GBM. Compared to unifocal disease, patients with m-GBM have worse outcomes owing to the enhanced aggressive nature of the disease and its resistance to currently available treatments. To improve the understanding of its complex behavior, many associations have been established between the radiologic findings of m-GBM and its gross histology, genetic composition, and patterns of spread. Additionally, the holistic knowledge of the exact mechanisms of m-GBM genesis and progression is crucial for identifying potential targets permitting enhanced diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive summary of the cumulative knowledge of the unique molecular biology and behavior of m-GBM and the association of these features with neuroimaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maguy Farhat
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gregory N Fuller
- Section of Neuropathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroradiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Max Wintermark
- Department of Neuroradiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Caroline Chung
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vinodh A Kumar
- Department of Neuroradiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Melissa Chen
- Department of Neuroradiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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8
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Reuss DE, Downing SM, Camacho CV, Wang YD, Piro RM, Herold-Mende C, Wang ZQ, Hofmann TG, Sahm F, von Deimling A, McKinnon PJ, Frappart PO. Simultaneous Nbs1 and p53 inactivation in neural progenitors triggers high-grade gliomas. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2023; 49:e12915. [PMID: 37296499 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by hypomorphic mutations of NBS1. NBS1 is a member of the MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 (MRN) complex that binds to DNA double-strand breaks and activates the DNA damage response (DDR). Nbs1 inactivation in neural progenitor cells leads to microcephaly and premature death. Interestingly, p53 homozygous deletion rescues the NBS1-deficient phenotype allowing long-term survival. The objective of this work was to determine whether simultaneous inactivation of Nbs1 and p53 in neural progenitors triggered brain tumorigenesis and if so in which category this tumour could be classified. METHODS We generated a mouse model with simultaneous genetic inactivation of Nbs1 and p53 in embryonic neural stem cells and analysed the arising tumours with in-depth molecular analyses including immunohistochemistry, array comparative genomic hybridisation (aCGH), whole exome-sequencing and RNA-sequencing. RESULTS NBS1/P53-deficient mice develop high-grade gliomas (HGG) arising in the olfactory bulbs and in the cortex along the rostral migratory stream. In-depth molecular analyses using immunohistochemistry, aCGH, whole exome-sequencing and RNA-sequencing revealed striking similarities to paediatric human HGG with shared features with radiation-induced gliomas (RIGs). CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that concomitant inactivation of Nbs1 and p53 in mice promotes HGG with RIG features. This model could be useful for preclinical studies to improve the prognosis of these deadly tumours, but it also highlights the singularity of NBS1 among the other DNA damage response proteins in the aetiology of brain tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Reuss
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuropathology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanna M Downing
- Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research, St. Jude Translational Neuroscience, Departments of Genetics and Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Cristel V Camacho
- Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research, St. Jude Translational Neuroscience, Departments of Genetics and Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Yong-Dong Wang
- Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research, St. Jude Translational Neuroscience, Departments of Genetics and Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rosario M Piro
- Dipartimento di Elettronica, Informazione e Bioingegneria (DEIB), Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Christel Herold-Mende
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Zhao-Qi Wang
- Leibniz Institute on Ageing-Fritz Lipmann Institute, Jena, Germany
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Thomas G Hofmann
- Institute of Toxicology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Felix Sahm
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuropathology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas von Deimling
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuropathology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter J McKinnon
- Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research, St. Jude Translational Neuroscience, Departments of Genetics and Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Pierre-Olivier Frappart
- Institute of Toxicology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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9
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García-Montaño LA, Licón-Muñoz Y, Martinez FJ, Keddari YR, Ziemke MK, Chohan MO, Piccirillo SG. Dissecting Intra-tumor Heterogeneity in the Glioblastoma Microenvironment Using Fluorescence-Guided Multiple Sampling. Mol Cancer Res 2023; 21:755-767. [PMID: 37255362 PMCID: PMC10390891 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-23-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of the most aggressive primary brain tumor in adults, glioblastoma (GBM), is challenging due to its heterogeneous nature, invasive potential, and poor response to chemo- and radiotherapy. As a result, GBM inevitably recurs and only a few patients survive 5 years post-diagnosis. GBM is characterized by extensive phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity, creating a diversified genetic landscape and a network of biological interactions between subclones, ultimately promoting tumor growth and therapeutic resistance. This includes spatial and temporal changes in the tumor microenvironment, which influence cellular and molecular programs in GBM and therapeutic responses. However, dissecting phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity at spatial and temporal levels is extremely challenging, and the dynamics of the GBM microenvironment cannot be captured by analysis of a single tumor sample. In this review, we discuss the current research on GBM heterogeneity, in particular, the utility and potential applications of fluorescence-guided multiple sampling to dissect phenotypic and genetic intra-tumor heterogeneity in the GBM microenvironment, identify tumor and non-tumor cell interactions and novel therapeutic targets in areas that are key for tumor growth and recurrence, and improve the molecular classification of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leopoldo A. García-Montaño
- The Brain Tumor Translational Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Yamhilette Licón-Muñoz
- The Brain Tumor Translational Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Frank J. Martinez
- The Brain Tumor Translational Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Yasine R. Keddari
- The Brain Tumor Translational Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- University of California, Merced, California
| | - Michael K. Ziemke
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Muhammad O. Chohan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Sara G.M. Piccirillo
- The Brain Tumor Translational Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
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10
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Higginbottom SL, Tomaskovic-Crook E, Crook JM. Considerations for modelling diffuse high-grade gliomas and developing clinically relevant therapies. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:507-541. [PMID: 37004686 PMCID: PMC10348989 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10100-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse high-grade gliomas contain some of the most dangerous human cancers that lack curative treatment options. The recent molecular stratification of gliomas by the World Health Organisation in 2021 is expected to improve outcomes for patients in neuro-oncology through the development of treatments targeted to specific tumour types. Despite this promise, research is hindered by the lack of preclinical modelling platforms capable of recapitulating the heterogeneity and cellular phenotypes of tumours residing in their native human brain microenvironment. The microenvironment provides cues to subsets of glioma cells that influence proliferation, survival, and gene expression, thus altering susceptibility to therapeutic intervention. As such, conventional in vitro cellular models poorly reflect the varied responses to chemotherapy and radiotherapy seen in these diverse cellular states that differ in transcriptional profile and differentiation status. In an effort to improve the relevance of traditional modelling platforms, recent attention has focused on human pluripotent stem cell-based and tissue engineering techniques, such as three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting and microfluidic devices. The proper application of these exciting new technologies with consideration of tumour heterogeneity and microenvironmental interactions holds potential to develop more applicable models and clinically relevant therapies. In doing so, we will have a better chance of translating preclinical research findings to patient populations, thereby addressing the current derisory oncology clinical trial success rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Higginbottom
- Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, AIIM Facility, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Fairy Meadow, NSW, 2519, Australia
- Arto Hardy Family Biomedical Innovation Hub, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Eva Tomaskovic-Crook
- Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, AIIM Facility, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Fairy Meadow, NSW, 2519, Australia.
- Arto Hardy Family Biomedical Innovation Hub, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia.
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Jeremy M Crook
- Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, AIIM Facility, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Fairy Meadow, NSW, 2519, Australia.
- Arto Hardy Family Biomedical Innovation Hub, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia.
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia.
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11
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Akeret K, Weller M, Krayenbühl N. The anatomy of neuroepithelial tumours. Brain 2023:7171408. [PMID: 37201913 PMCID: PMC10393414 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Many neurological conditions conceal specific anatomical patterns. Their study contributes to the understanding of disease biology and to tailored diagnostics and therapy. Neuroepithelial tumours exhibit distinct anatomical phenotypes and spatiotemporal dynamics that differ from those of other brain tumours. Brain metastases display a preference for the cortico-subcortical boundaries of watershed areas and have a predominantly spherical growth. Primary CNS lymphomas localize to the white matter and generally invade along fibre tracts. In neuroepithelial tumours, topographic probability mapping and unsupervised topological clustering have identified an inherent radial anatomy and adherence to ventriculopial configurations of specific hierarchical orders. Spatiotemporal probability and multivariate survival analyses have identified a temporal and prognostic sequence underlying the anatomical phenotypes of neuroepithelial tumours. Gradual neuroepithelial de-differentiation and declining prognosis follow (i) an expansion into higher order radial units; (ii) a subventricular spread; and (iii) the presence of mesenchymal patterns (expansion along white matter tracts, leptomeningeal or perivascular invasion, CSF spread). While different pathophysiological hypotheses have been proposed, the cellular and molecular mechanisms dictating this anatomical behaviour remain largely unknown. Here we adopt an ontogenetic approach towards the understanding of neuroepithelial tumour anatomy. Contemporary perception of histo- and morphogenetic processes during neurodevelopment permit us to conceptualize the architecture of the brain into hierarchically organized radial units. The anatomical phenotypes in neuroepithelial tumours and their temporal and prognostic sequences share remarkable similarities with the ontogenetic organization of the brain and the anatomical specifications that occur during neurodevelopment. This macroscopic coherence is reinforced by cellular and molecular observations that the initiation of various neuroepithelial tumours, their intratumoural hierarchy and tumour progression are associated with the aberrant reactivation of surprisingly normal ontogenetic programs. Generalizable topological phenotypes could provide the basis for an anatomical refinement of the current classification of neuroepithelial tumours. In addition, we have proposed a staging system for adult-type diffuse gliomas that is based on the prognostically critical steps along the sequence of anatomical tumour progression. Considering the parallels in anatomical behaviour between different neuroepithelial tumours, analogous staging systems may be implemented for other neuroepithelial tumour types and subtypes. Both the anatomical stage of a neuroepithelial tumour and the spatial configuration of its hosting radial unit harbour the potential to stratify treatment decisions at diagnosis and during follow-up. More data on specific neuroepithelial tumour types and subtypes are needed to increase the anatomical granularity in their classification and to determine the clinical impact of stage-adapted and anatomically tailored therapy and surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Akeret
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neuroscience Centre, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Weller
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neuroscience Centre, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Niklaus Krayenbühl
- Division of Paediatric Neurosurgery, University Children's Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
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12
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Regulation of Cell Plasticity by Bromodomain and Extraterminal Domain (BET) Proteins: A New Perspective in Glioblastoma Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065665. [PMID: 36982740 PMCID: PMC10055343 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BET proteins are a family of multifunctional epigenetic readers, mainly involved in transcriptional regulation through chromatin modelling. Transcriptome handling ability of BET proteins suggests a key role in the modulation of cell plasticity, both in fate decision and in lineage commitment during embryonic development and in pathogenic conditions, including cancerogenesis. Glioblastoma is the most aggressive form of glioma, characterized by a very poor prognosis despite the application of a multimodal therapy. Recently, new insights are emerging about the glioblastoma cellular origin, leading to the hypothesis that several putative mechanisms occur during gliomagenesis. Interestingly, epigenome dysregulation associated with loss of cellular identity and functions are emerging as crucial features of glioblastoma pathogenesis. Therefore, the emerging roles of BET protein in glioblastoma onco-biology and the compelling demand for more effective therapeutic strategies suggest that BET family members could be promising targets for translational breakthroughs in glioblastoma treatment. Primarily, “Reprogramming Therapy”, which is aimed at reverting the malignant phenotype, is now considered a promising strategy for GBM therapy.
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13
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Verma R, Chen X, Xin D, Luo Z, Ogurek S, Xin M, Rao R, Berry K, Lu QR. Olig1/2-Expressing Intermediate Lineage Progenitors Are Predisposed to PTEN/p53-Loss-Induced Gliomagenesis and Harbor Specific Therapeutic Vulnerabilities. Cancer Res 2023; 83:890-905. [PMID: 36634201 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-1577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Malignant gliomas such as glioblastoma are highly heterogeneous with distinct cells of origin and varied genetic alterations. It remains elusive whether the specific states of neural cell lineages are differentially susceptible to distinct genetic alterations during malignant transformation. Here, an analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas databases revealed that comutations of PTEN and TP53 are most significantly enriched in human high-grade gliomas. Therefore, we selectively ablated Pten and Trp53 in different progenitors to determine which cell lineage states are susceptible to malignant transformation. Mice with PTEN/p53 ablation mediated by multilineage-expressing human GFAP (hGFAP) promoter-driven Cre developed glioma but with incomplete penetrance and long latency. Unexpectedly, ablation of Pten and Trp53 in Nestin+ neural stem cells (NSC) or Pdgfra+/NG2+ committed oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPC), two major cells of origin in glioma, did not induce glioma formation in mice. Strikingly, mice lacking Pten and Trp53 in Olig1+/Olig2+ intermediate precursors (pri-OPC) prior to the committed OPCs developed high-grade gliomas with 100% penetrance and short latency. The resulting tumors exhibited distinct tumor phenotypes and drug sensitivities from NSC- or OPC-derived glioma subtypes. Integrated transcriptomic and epigenomic analyses revealed that PTEN/p53-loss induced activation of oncogenic pathways, including HIPPO-YAP and PI3K signaling, to promote malignant transformation. Targeting the core regulatory circuitries YAP and PI3K signaling effectively inhibited tumor cell growth. Thus, our multicell state in vivo mutagenesis analyses suggests that transit-amplifying states of Olig1/2 intermediate lineage precursors are predisposed to PTEN/p53-loss-induced transformation and gliomagenesis, pointing to subtype-specific treatment strategies for gliomas with distinct genetic alterations. SIGNIFICANCE Multiple progenitor-state mutagenesis reveal that Olig1/2-expressing intermediate precursors are highly susceptible to PTEN/p53-loss-mediated transformation and impart differential drug sensitivity, indicating tumor-initiating cell states and genetic drivers dictate glioma phenotypes and drug responses. See related commentary by Zamler and Hu, p. 807.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravinder Verma
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Xiameng Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Texas
| | - Dazhuan Xin
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Zaili Luo
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Sean Ogurek
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Mei Xin
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Rohit Rao
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Kalen Berry
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Q Richard Lu
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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14
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Yu K, Kong K, Lozzi B, Luna-Figueroa E, Cervantes A, Curry R, Mohila CA, Rao G, Jalali A, Mills GB, Scott KL, Deneen B. In vivo functional characterization of EGFR variants identifies novel drivers of glioblastoma. Neuro Oncol 2023; 25:471-481. [PMID: 36044040 PMCID: PMC10013639 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noac215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor. Large-scale sequencing initiatives have cataloged its mutational landscape in hopes of elucidating mechanisms driving this deadly disease. However, a major bottleneck in harnessing this data for new therapies is deciphering "driver" and "passenger" events amongst the vast volume of information. METHODS We utilized an autochthonous, in vivo screening approach to identify driver, EGFR variants. RNA-Seq identified unique molecular signatures of mouse gliomas across these variants, which only differ by a single amino acid change. In particular, we identified alterations to lipid metabolism, which we further validated through an unbiased lipidomics screen. RESULTS Our screen identified A289I as the most potent EGFR variant, which has previously not been characterized. One of the mechanisms through which A289I promotes gliomagenesis is to alter cellular triacylglycerides through MTTP. Knockout of Mttp in mouse gliomas, reduces gliomagenesis in multiple models. CONCLUSIONS EGFR variants that differ by a single amino acid residue differentially promote gliomagenesis. Among the identified mechanism that drives glioma growth include lipid metabolism through MTTP. Understanding triacylglyceride accumulation may present a prospective therapeutic pathway for this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwanha Yu
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kathleen Kong
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Brittney Lozzi
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Estefania Luna-Figueroa
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Alexis Cervantes
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Rachel Curry
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- The Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program (IMBS), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Carrie A Mohila
- Department of Pathology, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ganesh Rao
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ali Jalali
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Gordon B Mills
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Cancer Biology, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Kenneth L Scott
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Benjamin Deneen
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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15
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Ene A, Di J, Neltner JH, Pittman T, Arnold SM, Kolesar JM, Villano JL, Bachert SE, Allison DB. Case report: A unique presentation of a high-grade neuroepithelial tumor with EWSR1::PATZ1 fusion with diagnostic, molecular, and therapeutic insights. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1094274. [PMID: 36816978 PMCID: PMC9928596 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1094274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background EWSR1::PATZ1 fusion tumors are exceedingly rare in the central nervous system with only 14 prior cases documented. PATZ1 fusion neuroepithelial tumors are beginning to be recognized as a distinct molecular class of neoplasms that most often occur in children and young adults. These tumors are polyphenotypic, show diverse morphologic features, may be low- or high-grade, and tend to have an intermediate prognosis. Case presentation Herein, we present an unusual case of a high-grade neuroepithelial tumor in a young man with an EWSR1::PATZ1 fusion. This case is unique because the tumor appears to have undergone high-grade transformation from a persistent low-grade glioma, which has yet to be reported. Furthermore, this case is the first to document concurrent RB1 loss, SMAD4 loss, and TP53 inactivation in this tumor type, which correlates with high-grade transformation. Fortunately, this patient is alive 2.5 years after treatment and 18.5 years after initial presentation, which provides a unique window into how these tumors clinically behave over a long follow-up period. Finally, we discuss the altered molecular pathways that are a result of the EWSR1::PATZ1 fusion and discuss potential therapeutic targets. Conclusion Awareness of the emerging entity of PATZ1 fusion neuroepithelial tumors is important not only for accurate diagnostic and prognostic purposes but also for predicting response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Ene
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Jing Di
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Janna H. Neltner
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Thomas Pittman
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Susanne M. Arnold
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States,Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Jill M. Kolesar
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States,Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - John L. Villano
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States,Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States,Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Sara E. Bachert
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States,Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Derek B. Allison
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States,Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States,*Correspondence: Derek B. Allison,
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16
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Laurenge A, Huillard E, Bielle F, Idbaih A. Cell of Origin of Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1394:85-101. [PMID: 36587383 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-14732-6_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A better understanding of cellular and molecular biology of primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors is a critical step toward the design of innovative treatments. In addition to improving knowledge, identification of the cell of origin in tumors allows for sharp and efficient targeting of specific tumor cells promoting and driving oncogenic processes. The World Health Organization identifies approximately 150 primary brain tumor subtypes with various ontogeny and clinical outcomes. Identification of the cell of origin of each tumor type with its lineage and differentiation level is challenging. In the current chapter, we report the suspected cell of origin of various CNS primary tumors including gliomas, glioneuronal tumors, medulloblastoma, meningioma, atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor, germinomas, and lymphoma. Most of them have been pinpointed through transgenic mouse models and analysis of molecular signatures of tumors. Identification of the cell or cells of origin in primary brain tumors will undoubtedly open new therapeutic avenues, including the reactivation of differentiation programs for therapeutic perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Laurenge
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires La Pitié Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, UMR S 1127, Institut du Cerveau-Paris Brain Institute, ICM, Service de Neurologie 2-Mazarin, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuelle Huillard
- INSERM, CNRS, APHP, Institut du Cerveau-Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Franck Bielle
- AP-HP, SIRIC CURAMUS, Hôpitaux Universitaires La Pitié Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, UMR S 1127, Institut du Cerveau et de La Moelle Épinière, ICM, Service de Neuropathologie Escourolle, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Ahmed Idbaih
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires La Pitié Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, UMR S 1127, Institut du Cerveau-Paris Brain Institute, ICM, Service de Neurologie 2-Mazarin, 75013, Paris, France.
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17
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ToMExO: A probabilistic tree-structured model for cancer progression. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1010732. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1010732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying the interrelations among cancer driver genes and the patterns in which the driver genes get mutated is critical for understanding cancer. In this paper, we study cross-sectional data from cohorts of tumors to identify the cancer-type (or subtype) specific process in which the cancer driver genes accumulate critical mutations. We model this mutation accumulation process using a tree, where each node includes a driver gene or a set of driver genes. A mutation in each node enables its children to have a chance of mutating. This model simultaneously explains the mutual exclusivity patterns observed in mutations in specific cancer genes (by its nodes) and the temporal order of events (by its edges). We introduce a computationally efficient dynamic programming procedure for calculating the likelihood of our noisy datasets and use it to build our Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) inference algorithm, ToMExO. Together with a set of engineered MCMC moves, our fast likelihood calculations enable us to work with datasets with hundreds of genes and thousands of tumors, which cannot be dealt with using available cancer progression analysis methods. We demonstrate our method’s performance on several synthetic datasets covering various scenarios for cancer progression dynamics. Then, a comparison against two state-of-the-art methods on a moderate-size biological dataset shows the merits of our algorithm in identifying significant and valid patterns. Finally, we present our analyses of several large biological datasets, including colorectal cancer, glioblastoma, and pancreatic cancer. In all the analyses, we validate the results using a set of method-independent metrics testing the causality and significance of the relations identified by ToMExO or competing methods.
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18
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Boot J, Rosser G, Kancheva D, Vinel C, Lim YM, Pomella N, Zhang X, Guglielmi L, Sheer D, Barnes M, Brandner S, Nelander S, Movahedi K, Marino S. Global hypo-methylation in a proportion of glioblastoma enriched for an astrocytic signature is associated with increased invasion and altered immune landscape. eLife 2022; 11:e77335. [PMID: 36412091 PMCID: PMC9681209 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a subset of glioblastoma, the most prevalent malignant adult brain tumour, harbouring a bias towards hypomethylation at defined differentially methylated regions. This epigenetic signature correlates with an enrichment for an astrocytic gene signature, which together with the identification of enriched predicted binding sites of transcription factors known to cause demethylation and to be involved in astrocytic/glial lineage specification, point to a shared ontogeny between these glioblastomas and astroglial progenitors. At functional level, increased invasiveness, at least in part mediated by SRPX2, and macrophage infiltration characterise this subset of glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Boot
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary UniversityLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Gabriel Rosser
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary UniversityLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Dailya Kancheva
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
| | - Claire Vinel
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary UniversityLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Yau Mun Lim
- Division of Neuropathology, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Queen Square, Institute of Neurology, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Nicola Pomella
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary UniversityLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary UniversityLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Loredana Guglielmi
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary UniversityLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Denise Sheer
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary UniversityLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Michael Barnes
- Centre for Translational Bioinformatics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Sebastian Brandner
- Division of Neuropathology, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Queen Square, Institute of Neurology, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Sven Nelander
- Department of Immunology Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
| | - Kiavash Movahedi
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
| | - Silvia Marino
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary UniversityLondonUnited Kingdom
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19
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Zhuang Q, Yang H, Mao Y. The Oncogenesis of Glial Cells in Diffuse Gliomas and Clinical Opportunities. Neurosci Bull 2022; 39:393-408. [PMID: 36229714 PMCID: PMC10043159 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00953-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma is the most common and lethal intrinsic primary tumor of the brain. Its controversial origins may contribute to its heterogeneity, creating challenges and difficulties in the development of therapies. Among the components constituting tumors, glioma stem cells are highly plastic subpopulations that are thought to be the site of tumor initiation. Neural stem cells/progenitor cells and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells are possible lineage groups populating the bulk of the tumor, in which gene mutations related to cell-cycle or metabolic enzymes dramatically affect this transformation. Novel approaches have revealed the tumor-promoting properties of distinct tumor cell states, glial, neural, and immune cell populations in the tumor microenvironment. Communication between tumor cells and other normal cells manipulate tumor progression and influence sensitivity to therapy. Here, we discuss the heterogeneity and relevant functions of tumor cell state, microglia, monocyte-derived macrophages, and neurons in glioma, highlighting their bilateral effects on tumors. Finally, we describe potential therapeutic approaches and targets beyond standard treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyuan Zhuang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute for Translational Brain Research, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Ying Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute for Translational Brain Research, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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20
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Lauko A, Lo A, Ahluwalia MS, Lathia JD. Cancer cell heterogeneity & plasticity in glioblastoma and brain tumors. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 82:162-175. [PMID: 33640445 PMCID: PMC9618157 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Brain tumors remain one of the most difficult tumors to treat and, depending on the diagnosis, have a poor prognosis. Of brain tumors, glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant glioma and has a dismal prognosis, with only about 5% of patients alive five years after diagnosis. While advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapies are rapidly improving outcomes in a variety of other cancers, the standard of care for GBM has largely remained unaltered since 2005. There are many well-studied challenges that are either unique to brain tumors (i.e., blood-brain barrier and immunosuppressive environment) or amplified within GBM (i.e., tumor heterogeneity at the cellular and molecular levels, plasticity, and cancer stem cells) that make this disease particularly difficult to treat. While we touch on all these concepts, the focus of this review is to discuss the immense inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity and advances in our understanding of tumor cell plasticity and epigenetics in GBM. With each improvement in technology, our understanding of the complexity of tumoral heterogeneity and plasticity improves and we gain more clarity on the causes underlying previous therapeutic failures. However, these advances are unlocking new therapeutic opportunities that scientists and physicians are currently exploiting and have the potential for new breakthroughs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Lauko
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States; Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States; Medical Scientist Training Program, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Alice Lo
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Manmeet S Ahluwalia
- Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States; Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Justin D Lathia
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States; Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States; Medical Scientist Training Program, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States; Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States; Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, United States.
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21
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Adhikari AS, Sullivan T, Bargaje R, Lu L, O’Sullivan TN, Song Y, Van Dyke T. Abrogation of Rb Tumor Suppression Initiates GBM in Differentiated Astrocytes by Driving a Progenitor Cell Program. Front Oncol 2022; 12:904479. [PMID: 35814428 PMCID: PMC9263358 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.904479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) remains lethal with no effective treatments. Despite the comprehensive identification of commonly perturbed molecular pathways, little is known about the disease’s etiology, particularly in early stages. Several studies indicate that GBM is initiated in neural progenitor and/or stem cells. Here, we report that differentiated astrocytes are susceptible to GBM development when initiated by perturbation of the RB pathway, which induces a progenitor phenotype. In vitro and in vivo inactivation of Rb tumor suppression (TS) induces cortical astrocytes to proliferate rapidly, express progenitor markers, repress differentiation markers, and form self-renewing neurospheres that are susceptible to multi-lineage differentiation. This phenotype is sufficient to cause grade II astrocytomas which stochastically progress to GBM. Together with previous findings, these results demonstrate that cell susceptibility to GBM depends on the initiating driver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit S. Adhikari
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Amit S. Adhikari,
| | - Teresa Sullivan
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | | | - Lucy Lu
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - T Norene O’Sullivan
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Yurong Song
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Terry Van Dyke
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
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22
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Beiriger J, Habib A, Jovanovich N, Kodavali CV, Edwards L, Amankulor N, Zinn PO. The Subventricular Zone in Glioblastoma: Genesis, Maintenance, and Modeling. Front Oncol 2022; 12:790976. [PMID: 35359410 PMCID: PMC8960165 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.790976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a malignant tumor with a median survival rate of 15-16 months with standard care; however, cases of successful treatment offer hope that an enhanced understanding of the pathology will improve the prognosis. The cell of origin in GBM remains controversial. Recent evidence has implicated stem cells as cells of origin in many cancers. Neural stem/precursor cells (NSCs) are being evaluated as potential initiators of GBM tumorigenesis. The NSCs in the subventricular zone (SVZ) have demonstrated similar molecular profiles and share several distinctive characteristics to proliferative glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) in GBM. Genomic and proteomic studies comparing the SVZ and GBM support the hypothesis that the tumor cells and SVZ cells are related. Animal models corroborate this connection, demonstrating migratory patterns from the SVZ to the tumor. Along with laboratory and animal research, clinical studies have demonstrated improved progression-free survival in patients with GBM after radiation to the ipsilateral SVZ. Additionally, key genetic mutations in GBM for the most part carry regulatory roles in the SVZ as well. An exciting avenue towards SVZ modeling and determining its role in gliomagenesis in the human context is human brain organoids. Here we comprehensively discuss and review the role of the SVZ in GBM genesis, maintenance, and modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamison Beiriger
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Ahmed Habib
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Nicolina Jovanovich
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Chowdari V Kodavali
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Lincoln Edwards
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Nduka Amankulor
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Pascal O Zinn
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
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23
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Understanding nanomedicine treatment in an aggressive spontaneous brain cancer model at the stage of early blood brain barrier disruption. Biomaterials 2022; 283:121416. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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24
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Luo J, Junaid M, Hamid N, Duan JJ, Yang X, Pei DS. Current understanding of gliomagenesis: from model to mechanism. Int J Med Sci 2022; 19:2071-2079. [PMID: 36483593 PMCID: PMC9724244 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.77287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma, a kind of central nervous system (CNS) tumor, is hard to cure and accounts for 32% of all CNS tumors. Establishing a stable glioma model is critically important to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Various core signaling pathways have been identified in gliomagenesis, such as RTK/RAS/PI3K, TP53, and RB1. Traditional methods of establishing glioma animal models have included chemical induction, xenotransplantation, and genetic modifications (RCAS/t-va system, Cre-loxP, and TALENs). Recently, CRISPR/Cas9 has emerged as an efficient gene editing tool with high germline transmission and has extended the scope of stable and efficient glioma models that can be generated. Therefore, this review will highlight the documented evidence about the molecular characteristics, critical genetic markers, and signaling pathways responsible for gliomagenesis and progression. Moreover, methods of establishing glioma models using gene editing techniques and therapeutic aspects will be discussed. Finally, the prospect of applying gene editing in glioma by using CRISPR/Cas9 strategy and future research directions to establish a stable glioma model are also included in this review. In-depth knowledge of glioma signaling pathways and use of CRISPR/Cas9 can greatly assist in the development of a stable, efficient, and spontaneous glioma model, which can ultimately improve the effectiveness of therapeutic responses and cure glioma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Luo
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Muhammad Junaid
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Naima Hamid
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jin-Jing Duan
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiaojun Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- ✉ Corresponding authors: De-Sheng Pei, E-mail: ; Xiaojun Yang, E-mail:
| | - De-Sheng Pei
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- ✉ Corresponding authors: De-Sheng Pei, E-mail: ; Xiaojun Yang, E-mail:
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25
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Zhai L, Bell A, Ladomersky E, Lauing KL, Bollu L, Nguyen B, Genet M, Kim M, Chen P, Mi X, Wu JD, Schipma MJ, Wray B, Griffiths J, Unwin RD, Clark SJ, Acharya R, Bao R, Horbinski C, Lukas RV, Schiltz GE, Wainwright DA. Tumor Cell IDO Enhances Immune Suppression and Decreases Survival Independent of Tryptophan Metabolism in Glioblastoma. Clin Cancer Res 2021; 27:6514-6528. [PMID: 34479957 PMCID: PMC8639612 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-1392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Glioblastoma (GBM) is an incurable primary brain tumor that has not benefited from immunotherapy to date. More than 90% of GBM expresses the tryptophan (Trp) metabolic enzyme, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO). This observation supported the historical hypothesis that IDO suppresses the antitumor immune response solely through a mechanism that requires intratumoral Trp depletion. However, recent findings led us to investigate the alternative hypothesis that IDO suppresses the anti-GBM immune response independent of its association with Trp metabolism. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN IDO-deficient GBM cell lines reconstituted with IDO wild-type or IDO enzyme-null cDNA were created and validated in vitro and in vivo. Microarray analysis was conducted to search for genes that IDO regulates, followed by the analysis of human GBM cell lines, patient GBM and plasma, and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Ex vivo cell coculture assays, syngeneic and humanized mouse GBM models, were used to test the alternative hypothesis. RESULTS Nonenzymic tumor cell IDO activity decreased the survival of experimental animals and increased the expression of complement factor H (CFH) and its isoform, factor H like protein 1 (FHL-1) in human GBM. Tumor cell IDO increased CFH and FHL-1 expression independent of Trp metabolism. Increased intratumoral CFH and FHL-1 levels were associated with poorer survival among patients with glioma. Similar to IDO effects, GBM cell FHL-1 expression increased intratumoral regulatory T cells (Treg) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells while it decreased overall survival in mice with GBM. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals a nonmetabolic IDO-mediated enhancement of CFH expression and provides a new therapeutic target for patients with GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijie Zhai
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - April Bell
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Erik Ladomersky
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kristen L Lauing
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Lakshmi Bollu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Brenda Nguyen
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Matthew Genet
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Miri Kim
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois
| | - Peiwen Chen
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Xinlei Mi
- Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jennifer D Wu
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Matthew J Schipma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Brian Wray
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - John Griffiths
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Richard D Unwin
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Simon J Clark
- University Eye Clinic, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rajesh Acharya
- University of Pittsburgh Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Riyue Bao
- University of Pittsburgh Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Craig Horbinski
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Rimas V Lukas
- The Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Gary E Schiltz
- Department of Chemistry, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Derek A Wainwright
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
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26
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Chisari A, Golán I, Campisano S, Gélabert C, Moustakas A, Sancho P, Caja L. Glucose and Amino Acid Metabolic Dependencies Linked to Stemness and Metastasis in Different Aggressive Cancer Types. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:723798. [PMID: 34588983 PMCID: PMC8473699 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.723798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant cells are commonly characterised by being capable of invading tissue, growing self-sufficiently and uncontrollably, being insensitive to apoptosis induction and controlling their environment, for example inducing angiogenesis. Amongst them, a subpopulation of cancer cells, called cancer stem cells (CSCs) shows sustained replicative potential, tumor-initiating properties and chemoresistance. These characteristics make CSCs responsible for therapy resistance, tumor relapse and growth in distant organs, causing metastatic dissemination. For these reasons, eliminating CSCs is necessary in order to achieve long-term survival of cancer patients. New insights in cancer metabolism have revealed that cellular metabolism in tumors is highly heterogeneous and that CSCs show specific metabolic traits supporting their unique functionality. Indeed, CSCs adapt differently to the deprivation of specific nutrients that represent potentially targetable vulnerabilities. This review focuses on three of the most aggressive tumor types: pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and glioblastoma (GBM). The aim is to prove whether CSCs from different tumour types share common metabolic requirements and responses to nutrient starvation, by outlining the diverse roles of glucose and amino acids within tumour cells and in the tumour microenvironment, as well as the consequences of their deprivation. Beyond their role in biosynthesis, they serve as energy sources and help maintain redox balance. In addition, glucose and amino acid derivatives contribute to immune responses linked to tumourigenesis and metastasis. Furthermore, potential metabolic liabilities are identified and discussed as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Chisari
- Department of Chemistry, School of Sciences, National University of Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Irene Golán
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sabrina Campisano
- Department of Chemistry, School of Sciences, National University of Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Caroline Gélabert
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Patricia Sancho
- Translational Research Unit, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, IIS Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laia Caja
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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27
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Larrouquère L, Berthier S, Chovelon B, Garrel C, Vacchina V, Paucot H, Boutonnat J, Faure P, Hazane-Puch F. Preclinical Evaluation of Sodium Selenite in Mice: Toxicological and Tumor Regression Studies after Striatum Implantation of Human Glioblastoma Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910646. [PMID: 34638987 PMCID: PMC8508933 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive malignant glioma, with a very poor prognosis; as such, efforts to explore new treatments and GBM’s etiology are a priority. We previously described human GBM cells (R2J-GS) as exhibiting the properties of cancer stem cells (growing in serum-free medium and proliferating into nude mice when orthotopically grafted). Sodium selenite (SS)—an in vitro attractive agent for cancer therapy against GBM—was evaluated in R2J-GS cells. To go further, we launched a preclinical study: SS was given orally, in an escalation-dose study (2.25 to 10.125 mg/kg/day, 5 days on, 2 days off, and 5 days on), to evaluate (1) the absorption of selenium in plasma and organs (brain, kidney, liver, and lung) and (2) the SS toxicity. A 6.75 mg/kg SS dose was chosen to perform a tumor regression assay, followed by MRI, in R2J-GS cells orthotopically implanted in nude mice, as this dose was nontoxic and increased brain selenium concentration. A group receiving TMZ (5 mg/kg) was led in parallel. Although not reaching statistical significance, the group of mice treated with SS showed a slower tumor growth vs. the control group (p = 0.08). No difference was observed between the TMZ and control groups. We provide new insights of the mechanisms of SS and its possible use in chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Larrouquère
- Medical Oncology Department, Centre Léon Bérard, 69000 Lyon, France;
| | - Sylvie Berthier
- Cytometry Platform, Institute of Biology and Pathology, Grenoble Alpes Hospital, 38000 Grenoble, France; (S.B.); (J.B.)
- Unit of Anatomopathology, Institute of Biology and Pathology, Grenoble Alpes Hospital, 380000 Grenoble, France
| | - Benoit Chovelon
- Unit Nutritional and Hormonal Biochemistry, Institute of Biology and Pathology, Grenoble Alpes Hospital, 38000 Grenoble, France; (B.C.); (C.G.); (P.F.)
- Department of Molecular Pharmacochemistry, University Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5063, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Catherine Garrel
- Unit Nutritional and Hormonal Biochemistry, Institute of Biology and Pathology, Grenoble Alpes Hospital, 38000 Grenoble, France; (B.C.); (C.G.); (P.F.)
| | | | - Hugues Paucot
- University of Pau & des Pays de l’Adour, FORCO, Bâtiment d’Alembert-Rue Jules Ferry, BP 27540-64075 Pau CEDEX, France;
| | - Jean Boutonnat
- Cytometry Platform, Institute of Biology and Pathology, Grenoble Alpes Hospital, 38000 Grenoble, France; (S.B.); (J.B.)
- Unit of Anatomopathology, Institute of Biology and Pathology, Grenoble Alpes Hospital, 380000 Grenoble, France
| | - Patrice Faure
- Unit Nutritional and Hormonal Biochemistry, Institute of Biology and Pathology, Grenoble Alpes Hospital, 38000 Grenoble, France; (B.C.); (C.G.); (P.F.)
- Department of Molecular Pharmacochemistry, University Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5063, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Florence Hazane-Puch
- Unit Nutritional and Hormonal Biochemistry, Institute of Biology and Pathology, Grenoble Alpes Hospital, 38000 Grenoble, France; (B.C.); (C.G.); (P.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-476769316
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28
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Ding L, Zhang Z, Zhao C, Chen L, Chen Z, Zhang J, Liu Y, Nie Y, He Y, Liao K, Zhang X. Ribosomal L1 domain-containing protein 1 coordinates with HDM2 to negatively regulate p53 in human colorectal Cancer cells. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:245. [PMID: 34362424 PMCID: PMC8344204 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02057-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ribosomal L1 domain-containing protein 1 (RSL1D1) is a nucleolar protein that is essential in cell proliferation. In the current opinion, RSL1D1 translocates to the nucleoplasm under nucleolar stress and inhibits the E3 ligase activity of HDM2 via direct interaction, thereby leading to stabilization of p53. METHODS Gene knockdown was achieved in HCT116p53+/+, HCT116p53-/-, and HCT-8 human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells by siRNA transfection. A lentiviral expression system was used to establish cell strains overexpressing genes of interest. The mRNA and protein levels in cells were evaluated by qRT-PCR and western blot analyses. Cell proliferation, cell cycle, and cell apoptosis were determined by MTT, PI staining, and Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining assays, respectively. The level of ubiquitinated p53 protein was assessed by IP. The protein-RNA interaction was investigated by RIP. The subcellular localization of proteins of interest was determined by IFA. Protein-protein interaction was investigated by GST-pulldown, BiFC, and co-IP assays. The therapeutic efficacy of RSL1D1 silencing on tumor growth was evaluated in HCT116 tumor-bearing nude mice. RESULTS RSL1D1 distributed throughout the nucleus in human CRC cells. Silencing of RSL1D1 gene induced cell cycle arrest at G1/S and cell apoptosis in a p53-dependent manner. RSL1D1 directly interacted with and recruited p53 to HDM2 to form a ternary RSL1D1/HDM2/p53 protein complex and thereby enhanced p53 ubiquitination and degradation, leading to a decrease in the protein level of p53. Destruction of the ternary complex increased the level of p53 protein. RSL1D1 also indirectly decreased the protein level of p53 by stabilizing HDM2 mRNA. Consequently, the negative regulation of p53 by RSL1D1 facilitated cell proliferation and survival and downregulation of RSL1D1 remarkably inhibited the growth of HCT116p53+/+ tumors in a nude mouse model. CONCLUSION We report, for the first time, that RSL1D1 is a novel negative regulator of p53 in human CRC cells and more importantly, a potential molecular target for anticancer drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ding
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiping Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chenhong Zhao
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Chen
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yaxian Liu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yesen Nie
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanzhi He
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kai Liao
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China. .,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, The Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China. .,Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Biological Hazard Factors (Animal Origin) for Agrifood Safety and Quality, The Ministry of Agriculture of China, Yangzhou University (26116120), Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China. .,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China.
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29
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Cancer stem cell phosphatases. Biochem J 2021; 478:2899-2920. [PMID: 34319405 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are involved in the initiation and progression of human malignancies by enabling cancer tissue self-renewal capacity and constituting the therapy-resistant population of tumor cells. However, despite the exhausting characterization of CSC genetics, epigenetics, and kinase signaling, eradication of CSCs remains an unattainable goal in most human malignancies. While phosphatases contribute equally with kinases to cellular phosphoregulation, our understanding of phosphatases in CSCs lags severely behind our knowledge about other CSC signaling mechanisms. Many cancer-relevant phosphatases have recently become druggable, indicating that further understanding of the CSC phosphatases might provide novel therapeutic opportunities. This review summarizes the current knowledge about fundamental, but yet poorly understood involvement of phosphatases in the regulation of major CSC signaling pathways. We also review the functional roles of phosphatases in CSC self-renewal, cancer progression, and therapy resistance; focusing particularly on hematological cancers and glioblastoma. We further discuss the small molecule targeting of CSC phosphatases and their therapeutic potential in cancer combination therapies.
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30
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Chen KS, Lynton Z, Lim JWC, Robertson T, Gronostajski RM, Bunt J, Richards LJ. NFIA and NFIB function as tumour suppressors in high-grade glioma in mice. Carcinogenesis 2021; 42:357-368. [PMID: 33346791 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgaa139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor one (NFI) transcription factors are implicated in both brain development and cancer in mice and humans and play an essential role in glial differentiation. NFI expression is reduced in human astrocytoma samples, particularly those of higher grade, whereas over-expression of NFI protein can induce the differentiation of glioblastoma cells within human tumour xenografts and in glioblastoma cell lines in vitro. These data indicate that NFI proteins may act as tumour suppressors in glioma. To test this hypothesis, we generated complex mouse genetic crosses involving six alleles to target gene deletion of known tumour suppressor genes that induce endogenous high-grade glioma in mice, and overlaid this with loss of function Nfi mutant alleles, Nfia and Nfib, a reporter transgene and an inducible Cre allele. Deletion of Nfi resulted in reduced survival time of the mice, increased tumour load and a more aggressive tumour phenotype than observed in glioma mice with normal expression of NFI. Together, these data indicate that NFI genes represent a credible target for both diagnostic analyses and therapeutic strategies to combat high-grade glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kok-Siong Chen
- The Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Zorana Lynton
- The Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Jonathan W C Lim
- The Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Thomas Robertson
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Anatomical Pathology, Pathology Queensland, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland 4029, Australia
| | - Richard M Gronostajski
- Department of Biochemistry, Program in Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics, Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Jens Bunt
- The Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Linda J Richards
- The Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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31
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Yamulla RJ, Nalubola S, Flesken-Nikitin A, Nikitin AY, Schimenti JC. Most Commonly Mutated Genes in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma Are Nonessential for Ovarian Surface Epithelial Stem Cell Transformation. Cell Rep 2021; 32:108086. [PMID: 32877668 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths of women in the United States. Disease-associated mutations have been identified by the Cancer Genome Atlas Research Network. However, aside from mutations in TP53 or the RB1 pathway that are common in HGSOC, the contributions of mutation combinations are unclear. Here, we report CRISPR mutagenesis of 20 putative HGSOC driver genes to identify combinatorial disruptions of genes that transform either ovarian surface epithelium stem cells (OSE-SCs) or non-stem cells (OSE-NSs). Our results support the OSE-SC theory of HGSOC initiation and suggest that most commonly mutated genes in HGSOC have no effect on OSE-SC transformation initiation. Our results indicate that disruption of TP53 and PTEN, combined with RB1 disruption, constitutes a core set of mutations driving efficient transformation in vitro. The combined data may contribute to more accurate modeling of HGSOC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Joseph Yamulla
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Shreya Nalubola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Andrea Flesken-Nikitin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Alexander Yu Nikitin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - John C Schimenti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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32
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Guo X, Wang T, Huang G, Li R, Da Costa C, Li H, Lv S, Li N. Rediscovering potential molecular targets for glioma therapy through the analysis of the cell of origin, microenvironment, and metabolism. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2021; 21:558-574. [PMID: 33949933 DOI: 10.2174/1568009621666210504091722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Gliomas are the most common type of malignant brain tumors. Despite significant medical advances, gliomas remain incurable and are associated with high mortality. Although numerous biomarkers of diagnostic value have been identified and significant progress in the prognosis of the outcome has been made, the treatment has not been parallelly improved during the last three decades. This review summarizes and discusses three aspects of recent discoveries related to glioma, with the objective to highlight the advantages of glioma-specific drugs targeting the cell of origin, microenvironment, and metabolism. Given the heterogeneous nature of gliomas, various cell populations have been implicated as likely sources of the tumor. Depending on the mutation(s) acquired by the cells, it is believed that neuronal stem/progenitor cells, oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, mature neurons, and glial cells can initiate cell transformation into a malignant phenotype. The level of tumorigenicity appears to be inversely correlated with the maturation of a given cell population. The microenvironment of gliomas includes non-cancer cells such as immune cells, fibroblasts, and cells of blood vessels, as well as secreted molecules and the extracellular matrix, and all these components play a vital role during tumor initiation and progression. We will discuss in detail how the tumor microenvironment can stimulate and drive the transformation of non-tumor cell populations into tumor-supporting cells or glioma cells. Metabolic reprogramming is a key feature of gliomas and is thought to reflect the adaptation to the increased nutritional requirements of tumor cell proliferation, growth, and survival. Mutations in the IDH gene can shape metabolic reprogramming and may generate some vulnerabilities in glioma cells, such as abnormal lipid metabolism and sensitivity to endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). We will analyze the prominent metabolic features of malignant gliomas and the key pathways regulating glioma metabolism. This review is intended to provide a conceptual background for the development of glioma therapies based on the properties of tumor cell populations, microenvironment, and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoran Guo
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU), No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Guangming Dist., Shenzhen 518107. China
| | - Tao Wang
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU), No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Guangming Dist., Shenzhen 518107. China
| | - Guohao Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, No. 183 Xinqiao Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing City 400037. China
| | - Ruohan Li
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU), No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Guangming Dist., Shenzhen 518107. China
| | - Clive Da Costa
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT. United Kingdom
| | - Huafu Li
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU), No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Guangming Dist., Shenzhen 518107. China
| | - Shengqing Lv
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, No. 183 Xinqiao Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing City 400037. China
| | - Ningning Li
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU), No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Guangming Dist., Shenzhen 518107. China
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33
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Cen L, Liu R, Liu W, Li Q, Cui H. Competing Endogenous RNA Networks in Glioma. Front Genet 2021; 12:675498. [PMID: 33995499 PMCID: PMC8117106 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.675498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are the most common and malignant primary brain tumors. Various hallmarks of glioma, including sustained proliferation, migration, invasion, heterogeneity, radio- and chemo-resistance, contribute to the dismal prognosis of patients with high-grade glioma. Dysregulation of cancer driver genes is a leading cause for these glioma hallmarks. In recent years, a new mechanism of post-transcriptional gene regulation was proposed, i.e., "competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA)." Long non-coding RNAs, circular RNAs, and transcribed pseudogenes act as ceRNAs to regulate the expression of related genes by sponging the shared microRNAs. Moreover, coding RNA can also exert a regulatory role, independent of its protein coding function, through the ceRNA mechanism. In the latest glioma research, various studies have reported that dysregulation of certain ceRNA regulatory networks (ceRNETs) accounts for the abnormal expression of cancer driver genes and the establishment of glioma hallmarks. These achievements open up new avenues to better understand the hidden aspects of gliomas and provide new biomarkers and potential efficient targets for glioma treatment. In this review, we summarize the existing knowledge about the concept and logic of ceRNET and highlight the emerging roles of some recently found ceRNETs in glioma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Cen
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ruochen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Department of Psychology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Department of Neurosurgery, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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34
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Curry RN, Glasgow SM. The Role of Neurodevelopmental Pathways in Brain Tumors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:659055. [PMID: 34012965 PMCID: PMC8127784 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.659055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Disruptions to developmental cell signaling pathways and transcriptional cascades have been implicated in tumor initiation, maintenance and progression. Resurgence of aberrant neurodevelopmental programs in the context of brain tumors highlights the numerous parallels that exist between developmental and oncologic mechanisms. A deeper understanding of how dysregulated developmental factors contribute to brain tumor oncogenesis and disease progression will help to identify potential therapeutic targets for these malignancies. In this review, we summarize the current literature concerning developmental signaling cascades and neurodevelopmentally-regulated transcriptional programs. We also examine their respective contributions towards tumor initiation, maintenance, and progression in both pediatric and adult brain tumors and highlight relevant differentiation therapies and putative candidates for prospective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel N. Curry
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Houston, TX, United States
- Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Stacey M. Glasgow
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Neurosciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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35
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Luo J, Liu P, Lu C, Bian W, Su D, Zhu C, Xie S, Pan Y, Li N, Cui W, Pei DS, Yang X. Stepwise crosstalk between aberrant Nf1, Tp53 and Rb signalling pathways induces gliomagenesis in zebrafish. Brain 2021; 144:615-635. [PMID: 33279959 PMCID: PMC7940501 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awaa404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular pathogenesis of glioblastoma indicates that RTK/Ras/PI3K, RB and TP53 pathways are critical for human gliomagenesis. Here, several transgenic zebrafish lines with single or multiple deletions of nf1, tp53 and rb1 in astrocytes, were established to genetically induce gliomagenesis in zebrafish. In the mutant with a single deletion, we found only the nf1 mutation low-efficiently induced tumour incidence, suggesting that the Nf1 pathway is critical for the initiation of gliomagenesis in zebrafish. Combination of mutations, nf1;tp53 and rb1;tp53 combined knockout fish, showed much higher tumour incidences, high-grade histology, increased invasiveness, and shortened survival time. Further bioinformatics analyses demonstrated the alterations in RTK/Ras/PI3K, cell cycle, and focal adhesion pathways, induced by abrogated nf1, tp53, or rb1, were probably the critical stepwise biological events for the initiation and development of gliomagenesis in zebrafish. Gene expression profiling and histological analyses showed the tumours derived from zebrafish have significant similarities to the subgroups of human gliomas. Furthermore, temozolomide treatment effectively suppressed gliomagenesis in these glioma zebrafish models, and the histological responses in temozolomide-treated zebrafish were similar to those observed in clinically treated glioma patients. Thus, our findings will offer a potential tool for genetically investigating gliomagenesis and screening potential targeted anti-tumour compounds for glioma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Luo
- Neuroscience Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Pei Liu
- Neuroscience Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Chunjiao Lu
- Neuroscience Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Wanping Bian
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Dongsheng Su
- Neuroscience Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Chenchen Zhu
- Neuroscience Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Shaolin Xie
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Yihang Pan
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Ningning Li
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Life Science and Biopharmaceutical of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - De-Sheng Pei
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China
- Correspondence may also be addressed to: De-Sheng Pei, PhD Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Chongqing 400714, China E-mail:
| | - Xiaojun Yang
- Neuroscience Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Correspondence to: Xiaojun Yang, PhD Neuroscience Center, Shantou University Medical College Shantou 515041, China E-mail:
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36
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Reimunde P, Pensado-López A, Carreira Crende M, Lombao Iglesias V, Sánchez L, Torrecilla-Parra M, Ramírez CM, Anfray C, Torres Andón F. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Glioblastoma and Zebrafish Models for the Discovery of New Treatments. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1087. [PMID: 33802571 PMCID: PMC7961726 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common of all brain malignant tumors; it displays a median survival of 14.6 months with current complete standard treatment. High heterogeneity, aggressive and invasive behavior, the impossibility of completing tumor resection, limitations for drug administration and therapeutic resistance to current treatments are the main problems presented by this pathology. In recent years, our knowledge of GBM physiopathology has advanced significantly, generating relevant information on the cellular heterogeneity of GBM tumors, including cancer and immune cells such as macrophages/microglia, genetic, epigenetic and metabolic alterations, comprising changes in miRNA expression. In this scenario, the zebrafish has arisen as a promising animal model to progress further due to its unique characteristics, such as transparency, ease of genetic manipulation, ethical and economic advantages and also conservation of the major brain regions and blood-brain-barrier (BBB) which are similar to a human structure. A few papers described in this review, using genetic and xenotransplantation zebrafish models have been used to study GBM as well as to test the anti-tumoral efficacy of new drugs, their ability to interact with target cells, modulate the tumor microenvironment, cross the BBB and/or their toxicity. Prospective studies following these lines of research may lead to a better diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of patients with GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Reimunde
- Department of Medicine, Campus de Oza, Universidade da Coruña, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti, 27003 Lugo, Spain
| | - Alba Pensado-López
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Campus de Lugo, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (A.P.-L.); (M.C.C.); (V.L.I.); (L.S.)
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Martín Carreira Crende
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Campus de Lugo, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (A.P.-L.); (M.C.C.); (V.L.I.); (L.S.)
| | - Vanesa Lombao Iglesias
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Campus de Lugo, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (A.P.-L.); (M.C.C.); (V.L.I.); (L.S.)
| | - Laura Sánchez
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Campus de Lugo, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (A.P.-L.); (M.C.C.); (V.L.I.); (L.S.)
| | - Marta Torrecilla-Parra
- IMDEA Research Institute of Food and Health Sciences, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (M.T.-P.); (C.M.R.)
| | - Cristina M. Ramírez
- IMDEA Research Institute of Food and Health Sciences, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (M.T.-P.); (C.M.R.)
| | - Clément Anfray
- IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Via A. Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy;
| | - Fernando Torres Andón
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Via A. Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy;
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37
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Parkhitko AA, Singh A, Hsieh S, Hu Y, Binari R, Lord CJ, Hannenhalli S, Ryan CJ, Perrimon N. Cross-species identification of PIP5K1-, splicing- and ubiquitin-related pathways as potential targets for RB1-deficient cells. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009354. [PMID: 33591981 PMCID: PMC7909629 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The RB1 tumor suppressor is recurrently mutated in a variety of cancers including retinoblastomas, small cell lung cancers, triple-negative breast cancers, prostate cancers, and osteosarcomas. Finding new synthetic lethal (SL) interactions with RB1 could lead to new approaches to treating cancers with inactivated RB1. We identified 95 SL partners of RB1 based on a Drosophila screen for genetic modifiers of the eye phenotype caused by defects in the RB1 ortholog, Rbf1. We validated 38 mammalian orthologs of Rbf1 modifiers as RB1 SL partners in human cancer cell lines with defective RB1 alleles. We further show that for many of the RB1 SL genes validated in human cancer cell lines, low activity of the SL gene in human tumors, when concurrent with low levels of RB1 was associated with improved patient survival. We investigated higher order combinatorial gene interactions by creating a novel Drosophila cancer model with co-occurring Rbf1, Pten and Ras mutations, and found that targeting RB1 SL genes in this background suppressed the dramatic tumor growth and rescued fly survival whilst having minimal effects on wild-type cells. Finally, we found that drugs targeting the identified RB1 interacting genes/pathways, such as UNC3230, PYR-41, TAK-243, isoginkgetin, madrasin, and celastrol also elicit SL in human cancer cell lines. In summary, we identified several high confidence, evolutionarily conserved, novel targets for RB1-deficient cells that may be further adapted for the treatment of human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey A. Parkhitko
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Aging Institute of UPMC and the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Arashdeep Singh
- Cancer Data Science Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Sharon Hsieh
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Yanhui Hu
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Richard Binari
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Christopher J. Lord
- CRUK Gene Function Laboratory, The Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sridhar Hannenhalli
- Cancer Data Science Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Colm J. Ryan
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Computer Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Norbert Perrimon
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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38
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Kim HJ, Park JW, Lee JH. Genetic Architectures and Cell-of-Origin in Glioblastoma. Front Oncol 2021; 10:615400. [PMID: 33552990 PMCID: PMC7859479 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.615400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An aggressive primary brain cancer, glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common cancer of the central nervous system in adults. However, an inability to identify its cell-of-origin has been a fundamental issue hindering further understanding of the nature and pathogenesis of GBM, as well as the development of novel therapeutic targets. Researchers have hypothesized that GBM arises from an accumulation of somatic mutations in neural stem cells (NSCs) and glial precursor cells that confer selective growth advantages, resulting in uncontrolled proliferation. In this review, we outline genomic perspectives on IDH-wildtype and IDH-mutant GBMs pathogenesis and the cell-of-origin harboring GBM driver mutations proposed by various GBM animal models. Additionally, we discuss the distinct neurodevelopmental programs observed in either IDH-wildtype or IDH-mutant GBMs. Further research into the cellular origin and lineage hierarchy of GBM will help with understanding the evolution of GBMs and with developing effective targets for treating GBM cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jung Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jung Won Park
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jeong Ho Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea.,SoVarGen, Inc., Daejeon, South Korea
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39
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Patel SK, Hartley RM, Wei X, Furnish R, Escobar-Riquelme F, Bear H, Choi K, Fuller C, Phoenix TN. Generation of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma mouse models by brainstem-targeted in utero electroporation. Neuro Oncol 2021; 22:381-392. [PMID: 31638150 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noz197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs) are highly lethal childhood brain tumors. Their unique genetic makeup, pathological heterogeneity, and brainstem location all present challenges to treatment. Developing mouse models that accurately reflect each of these distinct features will be critical to advance our understanding of DIPG development, progression, and therapeutic resistance. The aims of this study were to generate new mouse models of DIPG and characterize the role of specific oncogenic combinations in DIPG pathogenesis. METHODS We used in utero electroporation (IUE) to transfect neural stem cells in the developing brainstem with PiggyBac DNA transposon plasmids. Combinations of platelet-derived growth factor B (PDGFB), PdgfraD842V, or PdgfraWT, combined with dominant negative Trp53 (DNp53) and H3.3K27M expression, induced fully penetrant brainstem gliomas. RESULTS IUE enabled the targeted transfection of brainstem neural stem cells. PDGFB + DNp53 + H3.3K27M induced the rapid development of grade IV gliomas. PdgfraD842V + DNp53 + H3.3K27M produced slower forming grade III gliomas. PdgfraWT + DNp53 + H3.3K27M produced high- and low-grade gliomas with extended latencies. PDGFB, PdgfraD842V, and PdgfraWT DIPG models display unique histopathological and molecular features found in human DIPGs. H3.3K27M induced both overlapping and unique gene expression changes in PDGFB and PdgfraD842V tumors. Paracrine effects of PDGFB promote disruption of pericyte-endothelial interactions and angiogenesis in PDGFB DIPG mouse models. CONCLUSION Brainstem-targeted IUE provides a rapid and flexible system to generate diverse DIPG mouse models. Using IUE to investigate mutation and pathohistological heterogeneity of DIPG will provide a valuable tool for future genetic and preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smruti K Patel
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Rachel M Hartley
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Xin Wei
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Robin Furnish
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Fernanda Escobar-Riquelme
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Heather Bear
- Research in Patient Services, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Kwangmin Choi
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Christine Fuller
- Department of Pathology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Timothy N Phoenix
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Research in Patient Services, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC), Cincinnati, Ohio
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40
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A Set of Cell Lines Derived from a Genetic Murine Glioblastoma Model Recapitulates Molecular and Morphological Characteristics of Human Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13020230. [PMID: 33435218 PMCID: PMC7827614 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13020230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive and almost inevitably lethal brain tumor. Animal models for GBM are crucial to study how the tumor evolves in vivo and to test novel treatment options. Most currently available models are based on the transplantation of human GBM cells into mice with a defective immune system. However, this approach does not allow to study the contribution of immune cells to GBM growth and to test immunotherapies. Transplantation of murine GBM cells overcomes this limitation, however, up to now, only a limited number, which mostly do not mimic important characteristics of human GBM, have been available. Via in vivo passaging, we established a set of murine GBM cell lines that (i) can be easily cultivated and further genetically manipulated, (ii) upon transplantation develop tumors with phenotypic and pathological features of human GBM, and (iii) are available to be shared with the scientific community. Abstract Glioblastomas (GBM) are the most aggressive tumors affecting the central nervous system in adults, causing death within, on average, 15 months after diagnosis. Immunocompetent in-vivo models that closely mirror human GBM are urgently needed for deciphering glioma biology and for the development of effective treatment options. The murine GBM cell lines currently available for engraftment in immunocompetent mice are not only exiguous but also inadequate in representing prominent characteristics of human GBM such as infiltrative behavior, necrotic areas, and pronounced tumor heterogeneity. Therefore, we generated a set of glioblastoma cell lines by repeated in vivo passaging of cells isolated from a neural stem cell-specific Pten/p53 double-knockout genetic mouse brain tumor model. Transcriptome and genome analyses of the cell lines revealed molecular heterogeneity comparable to that observed in human glioblastoma. Upon orthotopic transplantation into syngeneic hosts, they formed high-grade gliomas that faithfully recapitulated the histopathological features, invasiveness and immune cell infiltration characteristic of human glioblastoma. These features make our cell lines unique and useful tools to study multiple aspects of glioblastoma pathomechanism and to test novel treatments in an intact immune microenvironment.
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Senbabaoglu F, Aksu AC, Cingoz A, Seker-Polat F, Borklu-Yucel E, Solaroglu İ, Bagci-Onder T. Drug Repositioning Screen on a New Primary Cell Line Identifies Potent Therapeutics for Glioblastoma. Front Neurosci 2021; 14:578316. [PMID: 33390879 PMCID: PMC7773901 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.578316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is a malignant brain cancer with limited treatment options and high mortality rate. While established glioblastoma cell line models provide valuable information, they ultimately lose most primary characteristics of tumors under long-term serum culture conditions. Therefore, established cell lines do not necessarily recapitulate genetic and morphological characteristics of real tumors. In this study, in line with the growing interest in using primary cell line models derived from patient tissue, we generated a primary glioblastoma cell line, KUGBM8 and characterized its genetic alterations, long term growth ability, tumor formation capacity and its response to Temozolomide, the front-line chemotherapy utilized clinically. In addition, we performed a drug repurposing screen on the KUGBM8 cell line to identify FDA-approved agents that can be incorporated into glioblastoma treatment regimen and identified Topotecan as a lead drug among 1,200 drugs. We showed Topotecan can induce cell death in KUGBM8 and other primary cell lines and cooperate with Temozolomide in low dosage combinations. Together, our study provides a new primary cell line model that can be suitable for both in vitro and in vivo studies and suggests that Topotecan can offer promise as a therapeutic approach for glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filiz Senbabaoglu
- Brain Cancer Research and Therapy Laboratory, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Cenk Aksu
- Brain Cancer Research and Therapy Laboratory, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Cingoz
- Brain Cancer Research and Therapy Laboratory, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fidan Seker-Polat
- Brain Cancer Research and Therapy Laboratory, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Borklu-Yucel
- Medical Genetics Department and Diagnostic Center for Genetic Diseases, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - İhsan Solaroglu
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Neurosurgery, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Tugba Bagci-Onder
- Brain Cancer Research and Therapy Laboratory, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Dono A, Ramesh AV, Wang E, Shah M, Tandon N, Ballester LY, Esquenazi Y. The role of RB1 alteration and 4q12 amplification in IDH-WT glioblastoma. Neurooncol Adv 2021; 3:vdab050. [PMID: 34131647 PMCID: PMC8193911 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdab050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have identified that glioblastoma IDH-wildtype (GBM IDH-WT) might be comprised of molecular subgroups with distinct prognoses. Therefore, we investigated the correlation between genetic alterations and survival in 282 GBM IDH-WT patients, to identify subgroups with distinct outcomes. METHODS We reviewed characteristics of GBM IDH-WT (2009-2019) patients analyzed by next-generation sequencing interrogating 205 genes and 26 rearrangements. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated with the log-rank test and Cox regression models. We validated our results utilizing data from cBioPortal (MSK-IMPACT dataset). RESULTS Multivariable analysis of GBM IDH-WT revealed that treatment with chemoradiation and RB1-mutant status correlated with improved PFS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.25, P < .001 and HR 0.47, P = .002) and OS (HR 0.24, P < .001 and HR 0.49, P = .016). In addition, younger age (<55 years) was associated with improved OS. Karnofsky performance status less than 80 (HR 1.44, P = .024) and KDR amplification (HR 2.51, P = .008) were predictors of worse OS. KDR-amplified patients harbored coexisting PDGFRA and KIT amplification (P < .001) and TP53 mutations (P = .04). RB1-mutant patients had less frequent CDKN2A/B and EGFR alterations (P < .001). Conversely, RB1-mutant patients had more frequent TP53 (P < .001) and SETD2 (P = .006) mutations. Analysis of the MSK-IMPACT dataset (n = 551) validated the association between RB1 mutations and improved PFS (11.0 vs 8.7 months, P = .009) and OS (34.7 vs 21.7 months, P = .016). CONCLUSIONS RB1-mutant GBM IDH-WT is a molecular subgroup with improved PFS and OS. Meanwhile, 4q12 amplification (KDR/PDGFRA/KIT) denoted patients with worse OS. Identifying subgroups of GBM IDH-WT with distinct survival is important for optimal clinical trial design, incorporation of targeted therapies, and personalized neuro-oncological care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Dono
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | | | - Mauli Shah
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nitin Tandon
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Memorial Hermann Hospital-TMC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Leomar Y Ballester
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Memorial Hermann Hospital-TMC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yoshua Esquenazi
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Memorial Hermann Hospital-TMC, Houston, Texas, USA
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Hajj GNM, Nunes PBC, Roffe M. Genome-wide translation patterns in gliomas: An integrative view. Cell Signal 2020; 79:109883. [PMID: 33321181 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gliomas are the most frequent tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) and include the highly malignant glioblastoma (GBM). Characteristically, gliomas have translational control deregulation related to overactivation of signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 and Ras/ERK1/2. Thus, mRNA translation appears to play a dominant role in glioma gene expression patterns. The, analysis of genome-wide translated transcripts, together known as the translatome, may reveal important information for understanding gene expression patterns in gliomas. This review provides a brief overview of translational control mechanisms altered in gliomas with a focus on the current knowledge related to the translatomes of glioma cells and murine glioma models. We present an integrative meta-analysis of selected glioma translatome data with the aim of identifying recurrent patterns of gene expression preferentially regulated at the level of translation and obtaining clues regarding the pathological significance of these alterations. Re-analysis of several translatome datasets was performed to compare the translatomes of glioma models with those of their non-tumor counterparts and to document glioma cell responses to radiotherapy and MNK modulation. The role of recurrently altered genes in the context of translational control and tumorigenesis are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glaucia Noeli Maroso Hajj
- International Research Institute, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Rua Taguá, 440, São Paulo ZIP Code: 01508-010, Brazil; National Institute of Oncogenomics and Innovation, Brazil.
| | - Paula Borzino Cordeiro Nunes
- International Research Institute, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Rua Taguá, 440, São Paulo ZIP Code: 01508-010, Brazil
| | - Martin Roffe
- International Research Institute, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Rua Taguá, 440, São Paulo ZIP Code: 01508-010, Brazil; National Institute of Oncogenomics and Innovation, Brazil.
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Fontán-Lozano Á, Morcuende S, Davis-López de Carrizosa MA, Benítez-Temiño B, Mejías R, Matarredona ER. To Become or Not to Become Tumorigenic: Subventricular Zone Versus Hippocampal Neural Stem Cells. Front Oncol 2020; 10:602217. [PMID: 33330101 PMCID: PMC7729188 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.602217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) persist in the adult mammalian brain in two neurogenic regions: the subventricular zone lining the lateral ventricles and the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Compelling evidence suggests that NSCs of the subventricular zone could be the cell type of origin of glioblastoma, the most devastating brain tumor. Studies in glioblastoma patients revealed that NSCs of the tumor-free subventricular zone, harbor cancer-driver mutations that were found in the tumor cells but were not present in normal cortical tissue. Endogenous mutagenesis can also take place in hippocampal NSCs. However, to date, no conclusive studies have linked hippocampal mutations with glioblastoma development. In addition, glioblastoma cells often invade or are closely located to the subventricular zone, whereas they do not tend to infiltrate into the hippocampus. In this review we will analyze possible causes by which subventricular zone NSCs might be more susceptible to malignant transformation than their hippocampal counterparts. Cellular and molecular differences between the two neurogenic niches, as well as genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of their respective NSCs will be discussed regarding why the cell type originating glioblastoma brain tumors has been linked mainly to subventricular zone, but not to hippocampal NSCs.
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Olatz C, Patricia GG, Jon L, Iker B, Carmen DLH, Fernando U, Gaskon I, Ramon PJ. Is There Such a Thing as a Genuine Cancer Stem Cell Marker? Perspectives from the Gut, the Brain and the Dental Pulp. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9120426. [PMID: 33260962 PMCID: PMC7760753 DOI: 10.3390/biology9120426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The conversion of healthy stem cells into cancer stem cells (CSCs) is believed to underlie tumor relapse after surgical removal and fuel tumor growth and invasiveness. CSCs often arise from the malignant transformation of resident multipotent stem cells, which are present in most human tissues. Some organs, such as the gut and the brain, can give rise to very aggressive types of cancers, contrary to the dental pulp, which is a tissue with a very remarkable resistance to oncogenesis. In this review, we focus on the similarities and differences between gut, brain and dental pulp stem cells and their related CSCs, placing a particular emphasis on both their shared and distinctive cell markers, including the expression of pluripotency core factors. We discuss some of their similarities and differences with regard to oncogenic signaling, telomerase activity and their intrinsic propensity to degenerate to CSCs. We also explore the characteristics of the events and mutations leading to malignant transformation in each case. Importantly, healthy dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) share a great deal of features with many of the so far reported CSC phenotypes found in malignant neoplasms. However, there exist literally no reports about the contribution of DPSCs to malignant tumors. This raises the question about the particularities of the dental pulp and what specific barriers to malignancy might be present in the case of this tissue. These notable differences warrant further research to decipher the singular properties of DPSCs that make them resistant to transformation, and to unravel new therapeutic targets to treat deadly tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crende Olatz
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain; (C.O.); (G.-G.P.); (L.J.); (B.I.); (d.l.H.C.); (U.F.)
| | - García-Gallastegui Patricia
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain; (C.O.); (G.-G.P.); (L.J.); (B.I.); (d.l.H.C.); (U.F.)
| | - Luzuriaga Jon
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain; (C.O.); (G.-G.P.); (L.J.); (B.I.); (d.l.H.C.); (U.F.)
| | - Badiola Iker
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain; (C.O.); (G.-G.P.); (L.J.); (B.I.); (d.l.H.C.); (U.F.)
| | - de la Hoz Carmen
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain; (C.O.); (G.-G.P.); (L.J.); (B.I.); (d.l.H.C.); (U.F.)
| | - Unda Fernando
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain; (C.O.); (G.-G.P.); (L.J.); (B.I.); (d.l.H.C.); (U.F.)
| | - Ibarretxe Gaskon
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain; (C.O.); (G.-G.P.); (L.J.); (B.I.); (d.l.H.C.); (U.F.)
- Correspondence: (I.G.); (P.J.R.); Tel.: +34-946-013-218 (I.G.); +34-946-012-426 (P.J.R.)
| | - Pineda Jose Ramon
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain; (C.O.); (G.-G.P.); (L.J.); (B.I.); (d.l.H.C.); (U.F.)
- Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience Fundazioa, 48940 Leioa, Spain
- Correspondence: (I.G.); (P.J.R.); Tel.: +34-946-013-218 (I.G.); +34-946-012-426 (P.J.R.)
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Desland FA, Hormigo A. The CNS and the Brain Tumor Microenvironment: Implications for Glioblastoma Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197358. [PMID: 33027976 PMCID: PMC7582539 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive malignant primary brain tumor in adults. Its aggressive nature is attributed partly to its deeply invasive margins, its molecular and cellular heterogeneity, and uniquely tolerant site of origin—the brain. The immunosuppressive central nervous system (CNS) and GBM microenvironments are significant obstacles to generating an effective and long-lasting anti-tumoral response, as evidenced by this tumor’s reduced rate of treatment response and high probability of recurrence. Immunotherapy has revolutionized patients’ outcomes across many cancers and may open new avenues for patients with GBM. There is now a range of immunotherapeutic strategies being tested in patients with GBM that target both the innate and adaptive immune compartment. These strategies include antibodies that re-educate tumor macrophages, vaccines that introduce tumor-specific dendritic cells, checkpoint molecule inhibition, engineered T cells, and proteins that help T cells engage directly with tumor cells. Despite this, there is still much ground to be gained in improving the response rates of the various immunotherapies currently being trialed. Through historical and contemporary studies, we examine the fundamentals of CNS immunity that shape how to approach immune modulation in GBM, including the now revamped concept of CNS privilege. We also discuss the preclinical models used to study GBM progression and immunity. Lastly, we discuss the immunotherapeutic strategies currently being studied to help overcome the hurdles of the blood–brain barrier and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.
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The Emerging Role of Extracellular Vesicles in the Glioma Microenvironment: Biogenesis and Clinical Relevance. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071964. [PMID: 32707733 PMCID: PMC7409063 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are a diverse group of brain tumors comprised of malignant cells ('tumor' cells) and non-malignant 'normal' cells, including neural (neurons, glia), inflammatory (microglia, macrophage) and vascular cells. Tumor heterogeneity arises in part because, within the glioma mass, both 'tumor' and 'normal' cells secrete factors that form a unique microenvironment to influence tumor progression. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are critical mediators of intercellular communication between immediate cellular neighbors and distantly located cells in healthy tissues/organs and in tumors, including gliomas. EVs mediate cell-cell signaling as carriers of nucleic acid, lipid and protein cargo, and their content is unique to cell types and physiological states. EVs secreted by non-malignant neural cells have important physiological roles in the healthy brain, which can be altered or co-opted to promote tumor progression and metastasis, acting in combination with glioma-secreted EVs. The cell-type specificity of EV content means that 'vesiculome' data can potentially be used to trace the cell of origin. EVs may also serve as biomarkers to be exploited for disease diagnosis and to assess therapeutic progress. In this review, we discuss how EVs mediate intercellular communication in glioma, and their potential role as biomarkers and readouts of a therapeutic response.
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Cellular Plasticity and Tumor Microenvironment in Gliomas: The Struggle to Hit a Moving Target. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061622. [PMID: 32570988 PMCID: PMC7352204 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors encompass a diverse group of neoplasias arising from different cell lineages. Tumors of glial origin have been the subject of intense research because of their rapid and fatal progression. From a clinical point of view, complete surgical resection of gliomas is highly difficult. Moreover, the remaining tumor cells are resistant to traditional therapies such as radio- or chemotherapy and tumors always recur. Here we have revised the new genetic and epigenetic classification of gliomas and the description of the different transcriptional subtypes. In order to understand the progression of the different gliomas we have focused on the interaction of the plastic tumor cells with their vasculature-rich microenvironment and with their distinct immune system. We believe that a comprehensive characterization of the glioma microenvironment will shed some light into why these tumors behave differently from other cancers. Furthermore, a novel classification of gliomas that could integrate the genetic background and the cellular ecosystems could have profound implications in the efficiency of current therapies as well as in the development of new treatments.
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Abstract
Genome engineering using programmable nucleases such as transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat-associated protein nine facilitated the introduction of genetic alterations at specific genomic sites in various cell types. These tools have been applied to cancer modeling to understand the pathogenic effects of the growing catalog of mutations found in human cancers. Pertaining to brain tumors, neural progenitor cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) engineered with different combinations of genetic driver mutations observed in distinct molecular subtypes of glioblastomas, the most common form of primary brain cancer in adults, give rise to brain tumors when engrafted orthotopically in mice. These glioblastoma models recapitulate the transcriptomic signature of each molecular subtype and authentically resemble pathobiology of glioblastoma, including inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity, chromosomal aberrations, and extrachromosomal DNA amplifications. Similar engineering with genetic mutations found in medulloblastoma and atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors in iPSCs have led to genetically trackable models that bear clinical relevance to these pediatric brain tumors. These models have contributed to improved comprehension of the genetic causation of tumorigenesis and offered a novel platform for therapeutic discovery. Studied in the context of three-dimensional cerebral organoids, these models have aided in the study of tumor invasion as well as therapeutic responses. In summary, modeling brain tumors through genome engineering enables not only the establishment of authentic tumor avatars driven by bona fide genetic mutations observed in patient samples but also facilitates functional investigations of particular genetic alterations in an otherwise isogenic background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Koga
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota Medical School
| | - Clark C Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota Medical School
| | - Frank B Furnari
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of California San Diego
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Chen L, Liu S, Tao Y. Regulating tumor suppressor genes: post-translational modifications. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:90. [PMID: 32532965 PMCID: PMC7293209 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-0196-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor suppressor genes cooperate with each other in tumors. Three important tumor suppressor proteins, retinoblastoma (Rb), p53, phosphatase, and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) are functionally associated and they regulated by post-translational modification (PTMs) as well. PTMs include phosphorylation, SUMOylation, acetylation, and other novel modifications becoming growing appreciated. Because most of PTMs are reversible, normal cells use them as a switch to control the state of cells being the resting or proliferating, and PTMs also involve in cell survival and cell cycle, which may lead to abnormal proliferation and tumorigenesis. Although a lot of studies focus on the importance of each kind of PTM, further discoveries shows that tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) form a complex "network" by the interaction of modification. Recently, there are several promising strategies for TSGs for they change more frequently than carcinogenic genes in cancers. We here review the necessity, characteristics, and mechanisms of each kind of post-translational modification on Rb, p53, PTEN, and its influence on the precise and selective function. We also discuss the current antitumoral therapies of Rb, p53 and PTEN as predictive, prognostic, and therapeutic target in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Chen
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis (Central South University), Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Medical Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yongguang Tao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis (Central South University), Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410011, Changsha, China.
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