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Lei KC, Srinivas N, Chandra M, Kervarrec T, Coyaud E, Spassova I, Peiffer L, Houben R, Shuda M, Hoffmann D, Schrama D, Becker JC. Merkel cell polyomavirus pan-T antigen knockdown reduces cancer cell stemness and promotes neural differentiation independent of RB1. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29789. [PMID: 38988206 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29789] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly aggressive skin cancer associated with integration of Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). MCPyV-encoded T-antigens (TAs) are pivotal for sustaining MCC's oncogenic phenotype, i.e., repression of TAs results in reactivation of the RB pathway and subsequent cell cycle arrest. However, the MCC cell line LoKe, characterized by a homozygous loss of the RB1 gene, exhibits uninterrupted cell cycle progression after shRNA-mediated TA repression. This unique feature allows an in-depth analysis of the effects of TAs beyond inhibition of the RB pathway, revealing the decrease in expression of stem cell-related genes upon panTA-knockdown. Analysis of gene regulatory networks identified members of the E2F family (E2F1, E2F8, TFDP1) as key transcriptional regulators that maintain stem cell properties in TA-expressing MCC cells. Furthermore, minichromosome maintenance (MCM) genes, which encodes DNA-binding licensing proteins essential for stem cell maintenance, were suppressed upon panTA-knockdown. The decline in stemness occurred simultaneously with neural differentiation, marked by the increased expression of neurogenesis-related genes such as neurexins, BTG2, and MYT1L. This upregulation can be attributed to heightened activity of PBX1 and BPTF, crucial regulators of neurogenesis pathways. The observations in LoKe were confirmed in an additional MCPyV-positive MCC cell line in which RB1 was silenced before panTA-knockdown. Moreover, spatially resolved transcriptomics demonstrated reduced TA expression in situ in a part of a MCC tumor characterized by neural differentiation. In summary, TAs are critical for maintaining stemness of MCC cells and suppressing neural differentiation, irrespective of their impact on the RB-signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan Cheok Lei
- German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Skin Cancer Research, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nalini Srinivas
- German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Skin Cancer Research, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Mitalee Chandra
- German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Skin Cancer Research, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Thibault Kervarrec
- Department of Pathology, Université de Tours, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Etienne Coyaud
- Department of Biology, University Lille, INSERM, Protéomique Réponse Inflammatoire Spectrométrie de Masse (PRISM), Lille, France
| | - Ivelina Spassova
- German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Skin Cancer Research, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Lukas Peiffer
- German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Skin Cancer Research, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Masahiro Shuda
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daniel Hoffmann
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - David Schrama
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen C Becker
- German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Skin Cancer Research, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
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2
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SUMI A, CHAMBERS JK, ITO S, KOJIMA K, OMACHI T, DOI M, UCHIDA K. Different expression patterns of p63 and p73 in Felis catus papillomavirus type 2-associated feline Merkel cell carcinomas and other epidermal carcinomas. J Vet Med Sci 2024; 86:39-48. [PMID: 38030281 PMCID: PMC10849848 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0293] [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: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous neuroendocrine tumor, and more than 90% of feline MCC cases test positive for Felis catus papillomavirus type 2 (FcaPV2). In the present study, basal cell markers p40, p63, and p73 and the stem cell marker SOX2 and cytokeratin 14 (CK14) were immunohistochemically examined in normal fetal, infant, and adult feline skin tissues. The expression of these proteins was examined in tumors positive for FcaPV2, including MCC, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), Bowenoid in situ carcinoma (BISC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Infant and adult feline skin tissues had mature Merkel cells, which were CK14-, CK18+, CK20+, SOX2+, synaptophysin+ and CD56+, while fetal skin tissue had no mature Merkel cells. MCC was immunopositive for p73, CK18, and SOX2 in 32/32 cases, and immunonegative for CK14 in 31/32 cases and for p40 and p63 in 32/32 cases. These results indicate that MCC exhibits different immunophenotypes from Merkel cells (p73-) and basal cells (p40+, p63+, and SOX2-). In contrast, all 3 BCCs, 1 BISC, and 2 SCCs were immunopositive for the basal cell markers p40, p63, and p73. The life cycle of papillomavirus is closely associated with the differentiation of infected basal cells, which requires the transcription factor p63. Changes in p63 expression in FcaPV2-positive MCC may be associated with unique cytokeratin expression patterns (CK14-, CK18+, and CK20+). Furthermore, SOX2 appears to be involved in Merkel cell differentiation in cats, similar to humans and mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi SUMI
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - James K CHAMBERS
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Soma ITO
- Nippon Institute for Biological Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro KOJIMA
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Masaki DOI
- Diagnostic Laboratory, Patho-Labo, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki UCHIDA
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Peng WY, Abere B, Shi H, Toland S, Smithgall TE, Moore PS, Chang Y. Membrane-bound Merkel cell polyomavirus middle T protein constitutively activates PLCγ1 signaling through Src-family kinases. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2316467120. [PMID: 38079542 PMCID: PMC10740393 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2316467120] [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: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV or MCPyV) is an alphapolyomavirus causing human Merkel cell carcinoma and encodes four tumor (T) antigen proteins: large T (LT), small tumor (sT), 57 kT, and middle T (MT)/alternate LT open reading frame proteins. We show that MCV MT is generated as multiple isoforms through internal methionine translational initiation that insert into membrane lipid rafts. The membrane-localized MCV MT oligomerizes and promiscuously binds to lipid raft-associated Src family kinases (SFKs). MCV MT-SFK interaction is mediated by a Src homology (SH) 3 recognition motif as determined by surface plasmon resonance, coimmunoprecipitation, and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays. SFK recruitment by MT leads to tyrosine phosphorylation at a SH2 recognition motif (pMTY114), allowing interaction with phospholipase C gamma 1 (PLCγ1). The secondary recruitment of PLCγ1 to the SFK-MT membrane complex promotes PLCγ1 tyrosine phosphorylation on Y783 and activates the NF-κB inflammatory signaling pathway. Mutations at either the MCV MT SH2 or SH3 recognition sites abrogate PLCγ1-dependent activation of NF-κB signaling and increase viral replication after MCV genome transfection into 293 cells. These findings reveal a conserved viral targeting of the SFK-PLCγ1 pathway by both MCV and murine polyomavirus (MuPyV) MT proteins. The molecular steps in how SFK-PLCγ1 activation is achieved, however, differ between these two viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Yu Peng
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing100084, China
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Bizunesh Abere
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15219
| | - Haibin Shi
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15219
| | - Sabrina Toland
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Thomas E. Smithgall
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15219
| | - Patrick S. Moore
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15219
| | - Yuan Chang
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
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CHAMBERS JK, ITO S, UCHIDA K. Feline papillomavirus-associated Merkel cell carcinoma: a comparative review with human Merkel cell carcinoma. J Vet Med Sci 2023; 85:1195-1209. [PMID: 37743525 PMCID: PMC10686778 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0322] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare skin tumor that shares a similar immunophenotype with Merkel cells, although its origin is debatable. More than 80% of human MCC cases are associated with Merkel cell polyomavirus infections and viral gene integration. Recent studies have shown that the clinical and pathological characteristics of feline MCC are comparable to those of human MCC, including its occurrence in aged individuals, aggressive behavior, histopathological findings, and the expression of Merkel cell markers. More than 90% of feline MCC are positive for the Felis catus papillomavirus type 2 (FcaPV2) gene. Molecular changes involved in papillomavirus-associated tumorigenesis, such as increased p16 and decreased retinoblastoma (Rb) and p53 protein levels, were observed in FcaPV2-positive MCC, but not in FcaPV2-negative MCC cases. These features were also confirmed in FcaPV2-positive and -negative MCC cell lines. The expression of papillomavirus E6 and E7 genes, responsible for p53 degradation and Rb inhibition, respectively, was detected in tumor cells by in situ hybridization. Whole genome sequencing revealed the integration of FcaPV2 DNA into the host feline genome. MCC cases often develop concurrent skin lesions, such as viral plaque and squamous cell carcinoma, which are also associated with papillomavirus infection. These findings suggest that FcaPV2 infection and integration of viral genes are involved in the development of MCC in cats. This review provides an overview of the comparative pathology of feline and human MCC caused by different viruses and discusses their cell of origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- James K CHAMBERS
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Soma ITO
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki UCHIDA
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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5
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Zhang H, Sheng X, Tang X, Xing J, Chi H, Zhan W. Transcriptome analysis reveals molecular mechanisms of lymphocystis formation caused by lymphocystis disease virus infection in flounder ( Paralichthys olivaceus). Front Immunol 2023; 14:1268851. [PMID: 37868974 PMCID: PMC10585170 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1268851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphocystis disease is frequently prevalent and transmissible in various teleost species worldwide due to lymphocystis disease virus (LCDV) infection, causing unsightly growths of benign lymphocystis nodules in fish and resulting in huge economic losses to aquaculture industry. However, the molecular mechanism of lymphocystis formation is unclear. In this study, LCDV was firstly detected in naturally infected flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) by PCR, histopathological, and immunological techniques. To further understand lymphocystis formation, transcriptome sequencing of skin nodule tissue was performed by using healthy flounder skin as a control. In total, RNA-seq produced 99.36%-99.71% clean reads of raw reads, of which 91.11%-92.89% reads were successfully matched to the flounder genome. The transcriptome data showed good reproducibility between samples, with 3781 up-regulated and 2280 down-regulated differentially expressed genes. GSEA analysis revealed activation of Wnt signaling pathway, Hedgehog signaling pathway, Cell cycle, and Basal cell carcinoma associated with nodule formation. These pathways were analyzed to interact with multiple viral infection and tumor formation pathways. Heat map and protein interaction analysis revealed that these pathways regulated the expression of cell cycle-related genes such as ccnd1 and ccnd2 through key genes including ctnnb1, lef1, tcf3, gli2, and gli3 to promote cell proliferation. Additionally, cGMP-PKG signaling pathway, Calcium signaling pathway, ECM-receptor interaction, and Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction associated with nodule formation were significantly down-regulated. Among these pathways, tnfsf12, tnfrsf1a, and tnfrsf19, associated with pro-apoptosis, and vdac2, which promotes viral replication by inhibiting apoptosis, were significantly up-regulated. Visual analysis revealed significant down-regulation of cytc, which expresses the pro-apoptotic protein cytochrome C, as well as phb and phb2, which have anti-tumor activity, however, casp3 was significantly up-regulated. Moreover, bcl9, bcl11a, and bcl-xl, which promote cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis, were significantly upregulated, as were fgfr1, fgfr2, and fgfr3, which are related to tumor formation. Furthermore, RNA-seq data were validated by qRT-PCR, and LCDV copy numbers and expression patterns of focused genes in various tissues were also investigated. These results clarified the pathways and differentially expressed genes associated with lymphocystis nodule development caused by LCDV infection in flounder for the first time, providing a new breakthrough in molecular mechanisms of lymphocystis formation in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honghua Zhang
- Laboratory of Pathology and Immunology of Aquatic Animals, Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education (KLMME), Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiuzhen Sheng
- Laboratory of Pathology and Immunology of Aquatic Animals, Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education (KLMME), Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
- Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaoqian Tang
- Laboratory of Pathology and Immunology of Aquatic Animals, Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education (KLMME), Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
- Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Xing
- Laboratory of Pathology and Immunology of Aquatic Animals, Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education (KLMME), Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
- Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Heng Chi
- Laboratory of Pathology and Immunology of Aquatic Animals, Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education (KLMME), Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
- Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenbin Zhan
- Laboratory of Pathology and Immunology of Aquatic Animals, Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education (KLMME), Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
- Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
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6
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Rao N, Starrett GJ, Piaskowski ML, Butler KE, Golubeva Y, Yan W, Lawrence SM, Dean M, Garcia-Closas M, Baris D, Johnson A, Schwenn M, Malats N, Real FX, Kogevinas M, Rothman N, Silverman DT, Dyrskjøt L, Buck CB, Koutros S, Prokunina-Olsson L. Analysis of Several Common APOBEC-type Mutations in Bladder Tumors Suggests Links to Viral Infection. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2023; 16:561-570. [PMID: 37477495 PMCID: PMC10592262 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-23-0112] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
FGFR3 and PIK3CA are among the most frequently mutated genes in bladder tumors. We hypothesized that recurrent mutations in these genes might be caused by common carcinogenic exposures such as smoking and other factors. We analyzed 2,816 bladder tumors with available data on FGFR3 and/or PIK3CA mutations, focusing on the most recurrent mutations detected in ≥10% of tumors. Compared to tumors with other FGFR3/PIK3CA mutations, FGFR3-Y375C was more common in tumors from smokers than never-smokers (P = 0.009), while several APOBEC-type driver mutations were enriched in never-smokers: FGFR3-S249C (P = 0.013) and PIK3CA-E542K/PIK3CA-E545K (P = 0.009). To explore possible causes of these APOBEC-type mutations, we analyzed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data from 798 bladder tumors and detected several viruses, with BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) being the most common. We then performed IHC staining for polyomavirus (PyV) Large T-antigen (LTAg) in an independent set of 211 bladder tumors. Overall, by RNA-seq or IHC-LTAg, we detected PyV in 26 out of 1,010 bladder tumors with significantly higher detection (P = 4.4 × 10-5), 25 of 554 (4.5%) in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancers (NMIBC) versus 1 of 456 (0.2%) of muscle-invasive bladder cancers (MIBC). In the NMIBC subset, the FGFR3/PIK3CA APOBEC-type driver mutations were detected in 94.7% (18/19) of PyV-positive versus 68.3% (259/379) of PyV-negative tumors (P = 0.011). BKPyV tumor positivity in the NMIBC subset with FGFR3- or PIK3CA-mutated tumors was also associated with a higher risk of progression to MIBC (P = 0.019). In conclusion, our results support smoking and BKPyV infection as risk factors contributing to bladder tumorigenesis in the general patient population through distinct molecular mechanisms. PREVENTION RELEVANCE Tobacco smoking likely causes one of the most common mutations in bladder tumors (FGFR3-Y375C), while viral infections might contribute to three others (FGFR3-S249C, PIK3CA-E542K, and PIK3CA-E545K). Understanding the causes of these mutations may lead to new prevention and treatment strategies, such as viral screening and vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Rao
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gabriel J Starrett
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mary L Piaskowski
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kelly E Butler
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yelena Golubeva
- Molecular Digital Pathology Laboratory, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wusheng Yan
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Scott M Lawrence
- Molecular Digital Pathology Laboratory, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michael Dean
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Dalsu Baris
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | - Francisco X Real
- CNIO, Madrid, Spain
- CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Nathaniel Rothman
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Debra T Silverman
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lars Dyrskjøt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christopher B Buck
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Stella Koutros
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ludmila Prokunina-Olsson
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Ahmed K, Jha S. Oncoviruses: How do they hijack their host and current treatment regimes. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188960. [PMID: 37507056 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188960] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Viruses have the ability to modulate the cellular machinery of their host to ensure their survival. While humans encounter numerous viruses daily, only a select few can lead to disease progression. Some of these viruses can amplify cancer-related traits, particularly when coupled with factors like immunosuppression and co-carcinogens. The global burden of cancer development resulting from viral infections is approximately 12%, and it arises as an unfortunate consequence of persistent infections that cause chronic inflammation, genomic instability from viral genome integration, and dysregulation of tumor suppressor genes and host oncogenes involved in normal cell growth. This review provides an in-depth discussion of oncoviruses and their strategies for hijacking the host's cellular machinery to induce cancer. It delves into how viral oncogenes drive tumorigenesis by targeting key cell signaling pathways. Additionally, the review discusses current therapeutic approaches that have been approved or are undergoing clinical trials to combat malignancies induced by oncoviruses. Understanding the intricate interactions between viruses and host cells can lead to the development of more effective treatments for virus-induced cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kainat Ahmed
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Sudhakar Jha
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
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8
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Yang JF, Liu W, You J. Characterization of molecular mechanisms driving Merkel cell polyomavirus oncogene transcription and tumorigenic potential. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011598. [PMID: 37647312 PMCID: PMC10468096 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is associated with approximately 80% of cases of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive type of skin cancer. The incidence of MCC has tripled over the past twenty years, but there are currently very few effective targeted treatments. A better understanding of the MCPyV life cycle and its oncogenic mechanisms is needed to unveil novel strategies for the prevention and treatment of MCC. MCPyV infection and oncogenesis are reliant on the expression of the early viral oncoproteins, which drive the viral life cycle and MCPyV+ MCC tumor cell growth. To date, the molecular mechanisms regulating the transcription of the MCPyV oncogenes remain largely uncharacterized. In this study, we investigated how MCPyV early transcription is regulated to support viral infection and MCC tumorigenesis. Our studies established the roles of multiple cellular factors in the control of MCPyV gene expression. Inhibitor screening experiments revealed that the histone acetyltransferases p300 and CBP positively regulate MCPyV transcription. Their regulation of viral gene expression occurs through coactivation of the transcription factor NF-κB, which binds to the viral genome to drive MCPyV oncogene expression in a manner that is tightly controlled through a negative feedback loop. Furthermore, we discovered that small molecule inhibitors specifically targeting p300/CBP histone acetyltransferase activity are effective at blocking MCPyV tumor antigen expression and MCPyV+ MCC cell proliferation. Together, our work establishes key cellular factors regulating MCPyV transcription, providing the basis for understanding the largely unknown mechanisms governing MCPyV transcription that defines its infectious host cell tropism, viral life cycle, and oncogenic potential. Our studies also identify a novel therapeutic strategy against MCPyV+ MCC through specific blockage of MCPyV oncogene expression and MCC tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- June F. Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Jianxin You
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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9
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Wan L, Toland S, Robinson-McCarthy LR, Lee N, Schaich MA, Hengel SR, Li X, Bernstein KA, Van Houten B, Chang Y, Moore PS. Unlicensed origin DNA melting by MCV and SV40 polyomavirus LT proteins is independent of ATP-dependent helicase activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2308010120. [PMID: 37459531 PMCID: PMC10372695 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2308010120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular eukaryotic replication initiation helicases are first loaded as head-to-head double hexamers on double-stranded (ds) DNA origins and then initiate S-phase DNA melting during licensed (once per cell cycle) replication. Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) large T (LT) helicase oncoprotein similarly binds and melts its own 98-bp origin but replicates multiple times in a single cell cycle. To examine the actions of this unlicensed viral helicase, we quantitated multimerization of MCV LT molecules as they assembled on MCV DNA origins using real-time single-molecule microscopy. MCV LT formed highly stable double hexamers having 17-fold longer mean lifetime (τ, >1,500 s) on DNA than single hexamers. Unexpectedly, partial MCV LT assembly without double-hexamer formation was sufficient to melt origin dsDNA as measured by RAD51, RPA70, or S1 nuclease cobinding. DNA melting also occurred with truncated MCV LT proteins lacking the helicase domain, but was lost from a protein without the multimerization domain that could bind only as a monomer to DNA. SV40 polyomavirus LT also multimerized to the MCV origin without forming a functional hexamer but still melted origin DNA. MCV origin melting did not require ATP hydrolysis and occurred for both MCV and SV40 LT proteins using the nonhydrolyzable ATP analog, adenylyl-imidodiphosphate (AMP-PNP). LT double hexamers formed in AMP-PNP, and melted DNA, consistent with direct LT hexamer assembly around single-stranded (ss) DNA without the energy-dependent dsDNA-to-ssDNA melting and remodeling steps used by cellular helicases. These results indicate that LT multimerization rather than helicase activity is required for origin DNA melting during unlicensed virus replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wan
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Sabrina Toland
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | | | - Nara Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15219
| | - Matthew A. Schaich
- Genome Stability Program, Hillman Cancer Center, Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15232
| | - Sarah R. Hengel
- Department of Pharmacology, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15232
| | - Xiaochen Li
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing100084, China
| | - Kara A. Bernstein
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Bennett Van Houten
- Genome Stability Program, Hillman Cancer Center, Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15232
| | - Yuan Chang
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Patrick S. Moore
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
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10
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Sundqvist BZ, Kilpinen SK, Böhling TO, Koljonen VSK, Sihto HJ. Transcriptomic analyses reveal three distinct molecular subgroups of Merkel cell carcinoma with differing prognoses. Int J Cancer 2023; 152:2099-2108. [PMID: 36620996 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy with a poor prognosis and an unknown cell of origin. Proffered cells of origin include epithelial stem cells of the hair follicle or interfollicular epidermis, dermal stem cells and pro/pre- or pre-B cells. MCC has also been proposed to have more than one cell of origin and indeed to represent more than one type of carcinoma, currently grouped together due to phenotypic similarities. We explored the heterogeneous nature of MCC by studying the most variably expressed genes with the goal of identifying gene expression patterns that are either clinically relevant or have implications regarding the cell(s) of origin. We performed RNA sequencing on primary tumor samples from 102 patients and identified the top 200 most variably expressed genes. These genes and the tumor samples were hierarchically clustered based on their expression. The functions of three gene clusters exhibiting clearly divergent expression between samples were studied by cross-referencing the lists of genes with online databases. High expression of a gene cluster related to embryonic developmental processes and low expression of a gene cluster related to neuroendocrine processes distinguished Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV)-negative tumors from MCPyV-positive tumors. Furthermore, two prognostically relevant subgroups of MCPyV-positive MCC were identified based on dichotomic expression of genes related to epidermal structures and processes. We identified three distinct molecular subgroups of MCC with prognostic relevance. We propose that the dichotomic expression of epidermis-related genes might reflect both an epidermal and a nonepidermal origin for MCPyV-positive MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Z Sundqvist
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sami K Kilpinen
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tom O Böhling
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Virve S K Koljonen
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Harri J Sihto
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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11
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Wang R, Yang JF, Senay TE, Liu W, You J. Characterization of the Impact of Merkel Cell Polyomavirus-Induced Interferon Signaling on Viral Infection. J Virol 2023; 97:e0190722. [PMID: 36946735 PMCID: PMC10134799 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01907-22] [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: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) has been associated with approximately 80% of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive and increasingly incident skin cancer. The link between host innate immunity, viral load control, and carcinogenesis has been established but poorly characterized. We previously established the importance of the STING and NF-κB pathways in the host innate immune response to viral infection. In this study, we further discovered that MCPyV infection of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) induces the expression of type I and III interferons (IFNs), which in turn stimulate robust expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Blocking type I IFN downstream signaling using an IFN-β antibody, JAK inhibitors, and CRISPR knockout of the receptor dramatically repressed MCPyV infection-induced ISG expression but did not significantly restore viral replication activities. These findings suggest that IFN-mediated induction of ISGs in response to MCPyV infection is not crucial to viral control. Instead, we found that type I IFN exerts a more direct effect on MCPyV infection postentry by repressing early viral transcription. We further demonstrated that growth factors normally upregulated in wounded or UV-irradiated human skin can significantly stimulate MCPyV gene expression and replication. Together, these data suggest that in healthy individuals, host antiviral responses, such as IFN production induced by viral activity, may restrict viral propagation to reduce MCPyV burden. Meanwhile, growth factors induced by skin abrasion or UV irradiation may stimulate infected dermal fibroblasts to promote MCPyV propagation. A delicate balance of these mutually antagonizing factors provides a mechanism to support persistent MCPyV infection. IMPORTANCE Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive skin cancer that is particularly lethal to immunocompromised individuals. Though rare, MCC incidence has increased significantly in recent years. There are no lasting and effective treatments for metastatic disease, highlighting the need for additional treatment and prevention strategies. By investigating how the host innate immune system interfaces with Merkel cell polyomavirus, the etiological agent of most of these cancers, our studies identified key factors necessary for viral control, as well as conditions that support viral propagation. These studies provide new insights for understanding how the virus balances the effects of the host immune defenses and of growth factor stimulation to achieve persistent infection. Since virus-positive MCC requires the expression of viral oncogenes to survive, our observation that type I IFN can repress viral oncogene transcription indicates that these cytokines could be explored as a viable therapeutic option for treating patients with virus-positive MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranran Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - June F. Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Taylor E. Senay
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jianxin You
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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12
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Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Govoni M, Falzoni S, Tramarin ML, Mazzoni E, Tognon M, Martini F, Rotondo JC. Immunological evidence of an early seroconversion to oncogenic Merkel cell polyomavirus in healthy children and young adults. Immunology 2023; 168:671-683. [PMID: 36321356 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) provokes a widespread and asymptomatic infection in humans. Herein, sera from healthy children and young adults (HC, n = 344) aged 0-20 years old were evaluated for anti-MCPyV immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM antibodies employing a recently developed immunoassay. Serum MCPyV IgG data from healthy subjects (HS, n = 510) and elderlies (ES, n = 226), aged 21-65/66-100 years old, from our previous studies, were included. The anti-MCPyV IgG and IgM rates in HC sera were 40.7% and 29.7%, respectively. A lower prevalence of anti-MCPyV IgGs was found in HC aged 0-5 years old (13%) compared to 6-10 (52.3%), 11-15 (60.5%) and 16-20 years old (61.6%) cohorts. Age-stratified HCs exhibited similar anti-MCPyV IgM rates (27.9%-32.9%). Serological profiles indicated that anti-MCPyV IgGs and IgMs had low optical densities (ODs) during the first years of life, while IgM ODs appeared to decrease throughout young adulthood. A lower anti-MCPyV IgGs rate was found in HC (40.7%) than HS (61.8%) and ES (63.7%). Upon the 5-years range age-stratification, a lower anti-MCPyV IgGs rate was found in the younger HC cohort aged 0-5 years old compared to the remaining older HC/HS/ES cohorts (52.3%-72%). The younger HC cohort exhibited the lowest anti-MCPyV IgG ODs than the older cohorts. Low anti-MCPyV IgMs rates and ODs were found in the 21-25 (17.5%) and 26-30 (7.7%) years old cohorts. Our data indicate that, upon an early-in-life seroconversion, the seropositivity for oncogenic MCPyV peaks in late childhood/young adulthood and remains at high prevalence and relatively stable throughout life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine - Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine - Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marcello Govoni
- Department of Medical Sciences, Rheumatology Unit, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Simonetta Falzoni
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Chemistry, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine - Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine - Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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13
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Ouyang K, Zheng DX, Agak GW. T-Cell Mediated Immunity in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246058. [PMID: 36551547 PMCID: PMC9775569 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and frequently lethal skin cancer with neuroendocrine characteristics. MCC can originate from either the presence of MCC polyomavirus (MCPyV) DNA or chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure that can cause DNA mutations. MCC is predominant in sun-exposed regions of the body and can metastasize to regional lymph nodes, liver, lungs, bone, and brain. Older, light-skinned individuals with a history of significant sun exposure are at the highest risk. Previous studies have shown that tumors containing a high number of tumor-infiltrating T-cells have favorable survival, even in the absence of MCPyV DNA, suggesting that MCPyV infection enhances T-cell infiltration. However, other factors may also play a role in the host antitumor response. Herein, we review the impact of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), mainly the CD4+, CD8+, and regulatory T-cell (Tregs) responses on the course of MCC, including their role in initiating MCPyV-specific immune responses. Furthermore, potential research avenues related to T-cell biology in MCC, as well as relevant immunotherapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Ouyang
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - David X. Zheng
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - George W. Agak
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence:
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14
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Dimitraki MG, Sourvinos G. Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCPyV) and Cancers: Emergency Bell or False Alarm? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14225548. [PMID: 36428641 PMCID: PMC9688650 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225548] [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: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), the sole member of Polyomavirus associated with oncogenesis in humans, is the major causative factor of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare, neuroendocrine neoplasia of the skin. Many aspects of MCPyV biology and oncogenic mechanisms remain poorly understood. However, it has been established that oncogenic transformation is the outcome of the integration of the viral genome into the host DNA. The high prevalence of MCPyV in the population, along with the detection of the virus in various human tissue samples and the strong association of MCPyV with the emergence of MCC, have prompted researchers to further investigate the role of MCPyV in malignancies other than MCC. MCPyV DNA has been detected in several different non-MCC tumour tissues but with significantly lower prevalence, viral load and protein expression. Moreover, the two hallmarks of MCPyV MCC have rarely been investigated and the studies have produced generally inconsistent results. Therefore, the outcomes of the studies are inadequate and unable to clearly demonstrate a direct correlation between cellular transformation and MCPyV. This review aims to present a comprehensive recapitulation of the available literature regarding the association of MCPyV with oncogenesis (MCC and non-MCC tumours).
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15
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Loke ASW, Lambert PF, Spurgeon ME. Current In Vitro and In Vivo Models to Study MCPyV-Associated MCC. Viruses 2022; 14:2204. [PMID: 36298759 PMCID: PMC9607385 DOI: 10.3390/v14102204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the only human polyomavirus currently known to cause human cancer. MCPyV is believed to be an etiological factor in at least 80% of cases of the rare but aggressive skin malignancy Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). In these MCPyV+ MCC tumors, clonal integration of the viral genome results in the continued expression of two viral proteins: the viral small T antigen (ST) and a truncated form of the viral large T antigen. The oncogenic potential of MCPyV and the functional properties of the viral T antigens that contribute to neoplasia are becoming increasingly well-characterized with the recent development of model systems that recapitulate the biology of MCPyV+ MCC. In this review, we summarize our understanding of MCPyV and its role in MCC, followed by the current state of both in vitro and in vivo model systems used to study MCPyV and its contribution to carcinogenesis. We also highlight the remaining challenges within the field and the major considerations related to the ongoing development of in vitro and in vivo models of MCPyV+ MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Megan E. Spurgeon
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Oncology, School of Medicine & Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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16
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Venuti A, Romero-Medina MC, Melita G, Ceraolo MG, Brancaccio RN, Sirand C, Taverniti V, Steenbergen R, Gheit T, Tommasino M. Lyon IARC Polyomavirus Displays Transforming Activities in Primary Human Cells. J Virol 2022; 96:e0206121. [PMID: 35770990 PMCID: PMC9327700 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02061-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies reported the presence of a recently discovered polyomavirus (PyV), Lyon IARC PyV (LIPyV), in human and domestic animal specimens. LIPyV has some structural similarities to well-established animal and human oncogenic PyVs, such as raccoon PyV and Merkel cell PyV (MCPyV), respectively. In this study, we demonstrate that LIPyV early proteins immortalize human foreskin keratinocytes. LIPyV LT binds pRb, accordingly cell cycle checkpoints are altered in primary human fibroblasts and keratinocytes expressing LIPyV early genes. Mutation of the pRb binding site in LT strongly affected the ability of LIPyV ER to induced HFK immortalization. LIPyV LT also binds p53 and alters p53 functions activated by cellular stresses. Finally, LIPyV early proteins activate telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) gene expression, via accumulation of the Sp1 transcription factor. Sp1 recruitment to the hTERT promoter is controlled by its phosphorylation, which is mediated by ERK1 and CDK2. Together, these data highlight the transforming properties of LIPyV in in vitro experimental models, supporting its possible oncogenic nature. IMPORTANCE Lyon IARC PyV is a recently discovered polyomavirus that shows some structural similarities to well-established animal and human oncogenic PyVs, such as raccoon PyV and Merkel cell PyV, respectively. Here, we show the capability of LIPyV to efficiently promote cellular transformation of primary human cells, suggesting a possible oncogenic role of this virus in domestic animals and/or humans. Our study identified a novel virus-mediated mechanism of activation of telomerase reverse transcriptase gene expression, via accumulation of the Sp1 transcription factor. In addition, because the persistence of infection is a key event in virus-mediated carcinogenesis, it will be important to determine whether LIPyV can deregulate immune-related pathways, similarly to the well-established oncogenic viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assunta Venuti
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), World Health Organization, Lyon Cedex, France
| | | | - Giusi Melita
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), World Health Organization, Lyon Cedex, France
| | - Maria Grazia Ceraolo
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), World Health Organization, Lyon Cedex, France
| | | | - Cecilia Sirand
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), World Health Organization, Lyon Cedex, France
| | - Valerio Taverniti
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), World Health Organization, Lyon Cedex, France
| | - Renske Steenbergen
- VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Department of Pathology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tarik Gheit
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), World Health Organization, Lyon Cedex, France
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17
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Silk AW, Barker CA, Bhatia S, Bollin KB, Chandra S, Eroglu Z, Gastman BR, Kendra KL, Kluger H, Lipson EJ, Madden K, Miller DM, Nghiem P, Pavlick AC, Puzanov I, Rabinowits G, Ruiz ES, Sondak VK, Tavss EA, Tetzlaff MT, Brownell I. Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) clinical practice guideline on immunotherapy for the treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e004434. [PMID: 35902131 PMCID: PMC9341183 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-004434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) are some of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies. In general, early-stage NMSCs have favorable outcomes; however, a small subset of patients develop resistant, advanced, or metastatic disease, or aggressive subtypes that are more challenging to treat successfully. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Although ICIs have demonstrated activity against NMSCs, the routine clinical use of these agents may be more challenging due to a number of factors including the lack of predictive biomarkers, the need to consider special patient populations, the management of toxicity, and the assessment of atypical responses. With the goal of improving patient care by providing expert guidance to the oncology community, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) convened a multidisciplinary panel of experts to develop a clinical practice guideline (CPG). The expert panel drew on the published literature as well as their own clinical experience to develop recommendations for healthcare professionals on important aspects of immunotherapeutic treatment for NMSCs, including staging, biomarker testing, patient selection, therapy selection, post-treatment response evaluation and surveillance, and patient quality of life (QOL) considerations, among others. The evidence- and consensus-based recommendations in this CPG are intended to provide guidance to cancer care professionals treating patients with NMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann W Silk
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma Center of Excellence, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher A Barker
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shailender Bhatia
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kathryn B Bollin
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Scripps MD Anderson Cancer Center, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sunandana Chandra
- Hematology Oncology Division, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Zeynep Eroglu
- Department of Cutaneous Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Brian R Gastman
- Melanoma and High-Risk Skin Cancer Program, Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Kari L Kendra
- Division Of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Harriet Kluger
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Evan J Lipson
- Bloomberg Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kathleen Madden
- Melanoma/Cutaneous Oncology Program, New York University Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - David M Miller
- Department of Medicine and Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Paul Nghiem
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Anna C Pavlick
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Igor Puzanov
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Guilherme Rabinowits
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Miami Cancer Institute/Baptist Health South Florida, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Emily S Ruiz
- Mohs and Dermatologic Surgery Center, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vernon K Sondak
- Department of Cutaneous Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | | | - Michael T Tetzlaff
- Dermopathology Division, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Isaac Brownell
- Dermatology Branch, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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18
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Yang JF, You J. Merkel cell polyomavirus and associated Merkel cell carcinoma. Tumour Virus Res 2022; 13:200232. [PMID: 34920178 PMCID: PMC8715208 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvr.2021.200232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a ubiquitous skin infection that can cause Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a highly lethal form of skin cancer with a nearly 50% mortality rate. Since the discovery of MCPyV in 2008, great advances have been made to improve our understanding of how the viral encoded oncoproteins contribute to MCC oncogenesis. However, our knowledge of the MCPyV infectious life cycle and its oncogenic mechanisms are still incomplete. The incidence of MCC has tripled over the past two decades, but effective treatments are lacking. Only recently have there been major victories in combatting metastatic MCC with the application of PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade. Still, these immune-based therapies are not ideal for patients with a medical need to maintain systemic immune suppression. As such, a better understanding of MCPyV's oncogenic mechanisms is needed in order to develop more effective and targeted therapies against virus-associated MCC. In this review, we discuss current areas of interest for MCPyV and MCC research and the progress made in elucidating both the natural host of MCPyV infection and the cell of origin for MCC. We also highlight the remaining gaps in our knowledge on the transcriptional regulation of MCPyV, which may be key to understanding and targeting viral oncogenesis for developing future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- June F Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6076, USA
| | - Jianxin You
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6076, USA.
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19
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Small DNA tumor viruses and human cancer: Preclinical models of virus infection and disease. Tumour Virus Res 2022; 14:200239. [PMID: 35636683 PMCID: PMC9194455 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvr.2022.200239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Human tumor viruses cause various human cancers that account for at least 15% of the global cancer burden. Among the currently identified human tumor viruses, two are small DNA tumor viruses: human papillomaviruses (HPVs) and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). The study of small DNA tumor viruses (adenoviruses, polyomaviruses, and papillomaviruses) has facilitated several significant biological discoveries and established some of the first animal models of virus-associated cancers. The development and use of preclinical in vivo models to study HPVs and MCPyV and their role in human cancer is the focus of this review. Important considerations in the design of animal models of small DNA tumor virus infection and disease, including host range, cell tropism, choice of virus isolates, and the ability to recapitulate human disease, are presented. The types of infection-based and transgenic model strategies that are used to study HPVs and MCPyV, including their strengths and limitations, are also discussed. An overview of the current models that exist to study HPV and MCPyV infection and neoplastic disease are highlighted. These comparative models provide valuable platforms to study various aspects of virus-associated human disease and will continue to expand knowledge of human tumor viruses and their relationship with their hosts.
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20
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The Merkel Cell Polyomavirus T-Antigens and IL-33/ST2-IL1RAcP Axis: Possible Role in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073702. [PMID: 35409061 PMCID: PMC8998536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a causal factor in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). The oncogenic potential is mediated through its viral oncoproteins large T-antigen (LT) and small T-antigen (sT). Cytokines produced by tumor cells play an important role in cancer pathogenesis, and viruses affect their expression. Therefore, we compared human cytokine and receptor transcript levels in virus positive (V+) and virus negative (V−) MCC cell lines. Increased expression of IL-33, a potent modulator of tumor microenvironment, was observed in V+ MCC cell lines when compared to V− MCC-13 cells. Transient transfection studies with luciferase reporter plasmids demonstrated that LT and sT stimulated IL-33, ST2/IL1RL1 and IL1RAcP promoter activity. The induction of IL-33 expression was confirmed by transfecting MCC-13 cells with MCPyV LT. Furthermore, recombinant human cytokine domain IL-33 induced activation of MAP kinase and NF-κB pathways, which could be blocked by a ST2 receptor antibody. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated a significantly stronger IL-33, ST2, and IL1RAcP expression in MCC tissues compared to normal skin. Of interest, significantly higher IL-33 and IL1RAcP protein levels were observed in MCC patient plasma compared to plasma from healthy controls. Previous studies have demonstrated the implication of the IL-33/STL2 pathway in cancer. Because our results revealed a T-antigens-dependent induction of the IL-33/ST2 axis, IL-33/ST2 may play a role in the tumorigenesis of MCPyV-positive MCC. Therefore, neutralizing the IL-33/ST2 axis may present a novel therapeutic approach for MCC patients.
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21
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Verhaegen ME, Harms PW, Van Goor JJ, Arche J, Patrick MT, Wilbert D, Zabawa H, Grachtchouk M, Liu CJ, Hu K, Kelly MC, Chen P, Saunders TL, Weidinger S, Syu LJ, Runge JS, Gudjonsson JE, Wong SY, Brownell I, Cieslik M, Udager AM, Chinnaiyan AM, Tsoi LC, Dlugosz AA. Direct cellular reprogramming enables development of viral T antigen-driven Merkel cell carcinoma in mice. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:152069. [PMID: 35143422 PMCID: PMC8970662 DOI: 10.1172/jci152069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer that frequently carries an integrated Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) genome and expresses viral transforming antigens (TAgs). MCC tumor cells also express signature genes detected in skin-resident, postmitotic Merkel cells, including atonal bHLH transcription factor 1 (ATOH1), which is required for Merkel cell development from epidermal progenitors. We now report the use of in vivo cellular reprogramming, using ATOH1, to drive MCC development from murine epidermis. We generated mice that conditionally expressed MCPyV TAgs and ATOH1 in epidermal cells, yielding microscopic collections of proliferating MCC-like cells arising from hair follicles. Immunostaining of these nascent tumors revealed p53 accumulation and apoptosis, and targeted deletion of transformation related protein 53 (Trp53) led to development of gross skin tumors with classic MCC histology and marker expression. Global transcriptome analysis confirmed the close similarity of mouse and human MCCs, and hierarchical clustering showed conserved upregulation of signature genes. Our data establish that expression of MCPyV TAgs in ATOH1-reprogrammed epidermal cells and their neuroendocrine progeny initiates hair follicle–derived MCC tumorigenesis in adult mice. Moreover, progression to full-blown MCC in this model requires loss of p53, mimicking the functional inhibition of p53 reported in human MCPyV-positive MCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique E Verhaegen
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Paul W Harms
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Julia J Van Goor
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Jacob Arche
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Matthew T Patrick
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Dawn Wilbert
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Haley Zabawa
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Marina Grachtchouk
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Chia-Jen Liu
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Kevin Hu
- Department of Computational Medicine & Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Michael C Kelly
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, United States of America
| | - Ping Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, United States of America
| | - Thomas L Saunders
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Stephan Weidinger
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Li-Jyun Syu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - John S Runge
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Johann E Gudjonsson
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Sunny Y Wong
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Isaac Brownell
- Dermatology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, United States of America
| | - Marcin Cieslik
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Aaron M Udager
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Arul M Chinnaiyan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Lam C Tsoi
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Andrzej A Dlugosz
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
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22
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Epigenetic Dysregulations in Merkel Cell Polyomavirus-Driven Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111464. [PMID: 34768895 PMCID: PMC8584046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a small DNA virus with oncogenic potential. MCPyV is the causative agent of Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC), a rare but aggressive tumor of the skin. The role of epigenetic mechanisms, such as histone posttranslational modifications (HPTMs), DNA methylation, and microRNA (miRNA) regulation on MCPyV-driven MCC has recently been highlighted. In this review, we aim to describe and discuss the latest insights into HPTMs, DNA methylation, and miRNA regulation, as well as their regulative factors in the context of MCPyV-driven MCC, to provide an overview of current findings on how MCPyV is involved in the dysregulation of these epigenetic processes. The current state of the art is also described as far as potentially using epigenetic dysregulations and related factors as diagnostic and prognostic tools is concerned, in addition to targets for MCPyV-driven MCC therapy. Growing evidence suggests that the dysregulation of HPTMs, DNA methylation, and miRNA pathways plays a role in MCPyV-driven MCC etiopathogenesis, which, therefore, may potentially be clinically significant for this deadly tumor. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms and related factors may improve diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy for MCPyV-driven MCC.
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23
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Krump NA, You J. From Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Infection to Merkel Cell Carcinoma Oncogenesis. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:739695. [PMID: 34566942 PMCID: PMC8457551 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.739695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) infection causes near-ubiquitous, asymptomatic infection in the skin, but occasionally leads to an aggressive skin cancer called Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Epidemiological evidence suggests that poorly controlled MCPyV infection may be a precursor to MCPyV-associated MCC. Clearer understanding of host responses that normally control MCPyV infection could inform prophylactic measures in at-risk groups. Similarly, the presence of MCPyV in most MCCs could imbue them with vulnerabilities that-if better characterized-could yield targeted intervention solutions for metastatic MCC cases. In this review, we discuss recent developments in elucidating the interplay between host cells and MCPyV within the context of viral infection and MCC oncogenesis. We also propose a model in which insufficient restriction of MCPyV infection in aging and chronically UV-damaged skin causes unbridled viral replication that licenses MCC tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jianxin You
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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24
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T-Cell Responses in Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Implications for Improved Immune Checkpoint Blockade and Other Therapeutic Options. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168679. [PMID: 34445385 PMCID: PMC8395396 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive skin cancer with rising incidence and high mortality. Approximately 80% of the cases are caused by the human Merkel cell polyomavirus, while the remaining 20% are induced by UV light leading to mutations. The standard treatment of metastatic MCC is the use of anti-PD-1/-PD-L1-immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) such as Pembrolizumab or Avelumab, which in comparison with conventional chemotherapy show better overall response rates and longer duration of responses in patients. Nevertheless, 50% of the patients do not respond or develop ICI-induced, immune-related adverse events (irAEs), due to diverse mechanisms, such as down-regulation of MHC complexes or the induction of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Other immunotherapeutic options such as cytokines and pro-inflammatory agents or the use of therapeutic vaccination offer great ameliorations to ICI. Cytotoxic T-cells play a major role in the effectiveness of ICI, and tumour-infiltrating CD8+ T-cells and their phenotype contribute to the clinical outcome. This literature review presents a summary of current and future checkpoint inhibitor therapies in MCC and demonstrates alternative therapeutic options. Moreover, the importance of T-cell responses and their beneficial role in MCC treatment is discussed.
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25
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Rasheed K, Sveinbjørnsson B, Moens U. Reciprocal transactivation of Merkel cell polyomavirus and high-risk human papillomavirus promoter activities and increased expression of their oncoproteins. Virol J 2021; 18:139. [PMID: 34217322 PMCID: PMC8254899 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-021-01613-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 15% of human cancers are attributed to viruses. Numerous studies have shown that high-risk human polyomaviruses (HR-HPV) and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) are two human tumor viruses associated with anogenetal and oropharyngeal cancers, and with Merkel cell carcinoma, respectively. MCPyV has been found in HR-HPV positive anogenetal and oropharyngeal tumors, suggesting that MCPyV can act as a co-factor in HR-HPV induced oncogenesis. This prompted us to investigate whether the oncoproteins large T-antigen (LT) and small antigen (sT) of MCPyV could affect the transcriptional activity HPV16 and HPV18 and vice versa whether HPV16 and HPV18 E6 and E7 oncoproteins affected the expression of MCPyV LT and sT. Reciprocal stimulation of these viral oncoproteinscould enhance the oncogenic processes triggered by these tumor viruses. METHODS Transient co-transfection studies using a luciferase reporter plasmid with the long control region of HPV16 or HPV18, or the early or late promoter of MCPyV and expression plasmids for LT and sT, or E6 and E7, respectively were performed in the HPV-negative cervical cancer cell line C33A, in the keratinocyte cell line HaCaT, and in the oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line HSC-3. Transfections were also performed with deletion mutants of all these promoters and with mutants of all four oncoproteins. Finally, the effect of E6 and E7 on LT and sT expression in the MCPyV-positive Merkel cell carcinoma cell line WaGa and the effect of LT and sT on the expression of E6 and E7 was monitored by Western blotting. RESULTS LT and sT stimulated the transcriptional activity of the HPV16 and HPV18 LCR and v.v. E6 and E7 potentiated the MCPyV early and late promoter in all cell lines. Induction by E6 and E7 was p53- and pRb-independent, and transactivation by LT did not require DNA binding, nuclear localization and HSC70/pRb interaction, whereas sT stimulated the HPV16/18 LCR activity in a PP2A- and DnaJ-independent manner. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that the co-infection of MCPyV may act as a co-factor in the initiation and/or progression of HPV-induced cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kashif Rasheed
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway.,Institute for Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NTNU Trondheim, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Baldur Sveinbjørnsson
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway.,Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 1176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway.
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26
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Defective Epstein-Barr Virus Genomes and Atypical Viral Gene Expression in B-Cell Lines Derived from Multiple Myeloma Patients. J Virol 2021; 95:e0008821. [PMID: 33883224 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00088-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a human gammaherpesvirus that is causally associated with various lymphomas and carcinomas. Although EBV is not typically associated with multiple myeloma (MM), it can be found in some B-cell lines derived from MM patients. Here, we analyzed two EBV-positive MM-patient-derived cell lines, IM9 and ARH77, and found defective viral genomes and atypical viral gene expression patterns. We performed transcriptome sequencing to characterize the viral and cellular properties of the two EBV-positive cell lines, compared to the canonical MM cell line 8226. Principal-component analyses indicated that IM9 and ARH77 clustered together and distinct from 8226. Immunological Genome Project analysis designated these cells as stem cell and bone marrow derived. IM9 and ARH77 displayed atypical viral gene expression, including leaky lytic cycle gene expression with an absence of lytic DNA amplification. Genome sequencing revealed that the EBV genomes in ARH77 contain large deletions, while IM9 has copy number losses in multiple EBV loci. Both IM9 and ARH77 showed EBV genome heterogeneity, suggesting cells harboring multiple and variant viral genomes. We identified atypical high-level expression of lytic genes BLRF1 and BLRF2. We demonstrated that short hairpin RNA (shRNA) depletion of BLRF2 altered viral and host gene expression, including a reduction in lytic gene activation and DNA amplification. These findings demonstrate that aberrant viral genomes and lytic gene expression persist in rare B cells derived from MM tumors, and they suggest that EBV may contribute to the etiology of MM. IMPORTANCE EBV is an oncogenic herpesvirus, but its mechanisms of oncogenesis are not fully understood. A role for EBV in MM has not yet been established. We analyzed EBV-positive B-cell lines derived from MM patients and found that the cells harbored defective viral genomes with aberrant viral gene expression patterns and cell gene signatures for bone marrow-derived lymphoid stem cells. These findings suggest that aberrant EBV latent infection may contribute to the etiology of MM.
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27
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Finton KAK, Brusniak MY, Jones LA, Lin C, Fioré-Gartland AJ, Brock C, Gafken PR, Strong RK. ARTEMIS: A Novel Mass-Spec Platform for HLA-Restricted Self and Disease-Associated Peptide Discovery. Front Immunol 2021; 12:658372. [PMID: 33986749 PMCID: PMC8111693 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.658372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional immunoprecipitation/mass spectroscopy identification of HLA-restricted peptides remains the purview of specializing laboratories, due to the complexity of the methodology, and requires computational post-analysis to assign peptides to individual alleles when using pan-HLA antibodies. We have addressed these limitations with ARTEMIS: a simple, robust, and flexible platform for peptide discovery across ligandomes, optionally including specific proteins-of-interest, that combines novel, secreted HLA-I discovery reagents spanning multiple alleles, optimized lentiviral transduction, and streamlined affinity-tag purification to improve upon conventional methods. This platform fills a middle ground between existing techniques: sensitive and adaptable, but easy and affordable enough to be widely employed by general laboratories. We used ARTEMIS to catalog allele-specific ligandomes from HEK293 cells for seven classical HLA alleles and compared results across replicates, against computational predictions, and against high-quality conventional datasets. We also applied ARTEMIS to identify potentially useful, novel HLA-restricted peptide targets from oncovirus oncoproteins and tumor-associated antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn A K Finton
- Division of Basic Science, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Mi-Youn Brusniak
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Lisa A Jones
- Proteomics Shared Resource, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Chenwei Lin
- Proteomics Shared Resource, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Andrew J Fioré-Gartland
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Chance Brock
- Division of Basic Science, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Philip R Gafken
- Proteomics Shared Resource, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Roland K Strong
- Division of Basic Science, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
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28
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Shapiro M, Krug LT, MacCarthy T. Mutational pressure by host APOBEC3s more strongly affects genes expressed early in the lytic phase of herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) and human polyomavirus (HPyV) infection. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009560. [PMID: 33930088 PMCID: PMC8115780 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpes-Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) infects most humans when they are young, sometimes with fatal consequences. Gene expression occurs in a temporal order upon lytic HSV-1 infection: immediate early (IE) genes are expressed, then early (E) genes, followed by late (L) genes. During this infection cycle, the HSV-1 genome has the potential for exposure to APOBEC3 (A3) proteins, a family of cytidine deaminases that cause C>U mutations on single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), often resulting in a C>T transition. We developed a computational model for the mutational pressure of A3 on the lytic cycle of HSV-1 to determine which viral kinetic gene class is most vulnerable to A3 mutations. Using in silico stochastic methods, we simulated the infectious cycle under varying intensities of A3 mutational pressure. We found that the IE and E genes are more vulnerable to A3 than L genes. We validated this model by analyzing the A3 evolutionary footprints in 25 HSV-1 isolates. We find that IE and E genes have evolved to underrepresent A3 hotspot motifs more so than L genes, consistent with greater selection pressure on IE and E genes. We extend this model to two-step infections, such as those of polyomavirus, and find that the same pattern holds for over 25 human Polyomavirus (HPyVs) genomes. Genes expressed earlier during infection are more vulnerable to mutations than those expressed later.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Shapiro
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
| | - Laurie T. Krug
- HIV and AIDS Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Thomas MacCarthy
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
- Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
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29
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Muto Y, Ryo E, Namikawa K, Takahashi A, Ogata D, Fujimura T, Yatabe Y, Aiba S, Yamazaki N, Mori T. RB1 gene mutations are a distinct predictive factor in Merkel cell carcinoma. Pathol Int 2021; 71:337-347. [PMID: 33751708 DOI: 10.1111/pin.13090] [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: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma that tends to show local recurrence and metastasis. Typically, MCC is polyomavirus (MCPyV)-associated and cytokeratin 20 (CK20) positive. However, little is known about this tumor and its origins. Here, we aimed to determine the developmental origins of MCC and to identify prognostic clinicopathologic factors. Initial examinations revealed that CK20 and MCPyV expression (CK20+, MCPyV+ (60%); CK20+, MCPyV- (10%); CK20-, and MCPyV- (30%)) did not affect overall survival. With RB1 gene sequencing of FFPE specimens, which covered an entire exon, all RB1 mutation-positive cases showed positive regional lymph node and/or distant metastases (8/8 cases, 100%), whereas the frequency of the metastasis was statistically significantly lower in RB1 mutation-negative cases, (10/16 cases, 62%, P = 0.033). The results were also confirmed with immunohistochemistry, and either RB1 alterations, entire exon sequencing, or immunohistochemistry was associated with the metastasis (P = 0.007). RB1 alterations may be used to access the aggressive clinical course of MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Muto
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Dermatology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Eijitsu Ryo
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenjiro Namikawa
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akira Takahashi
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Dai Ogata
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taku Fujimura
- Department of Dermatology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasushi Yatabe
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Setsuya Aiba
- Department of Dermatology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Naoya Yamazaki
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taisuke Mori
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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30
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Zamaraev AV, Zhivotovsky B, Kopeina GS. Viral Infections: Negative Regulators of Apoptosis and Oncogenic Factors. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2021. [PMID: 33202204 PMCID: PMC7590567 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297920100077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The disruption of apoptotic cell death process is closely associated with the etiology of various diseases, including cancer. Permanent viral infections can cause different types of cancers. Oncogenic viruses manipulate both external and internal apoptosis pathways, and inhibit the activity of proapoptotic proteins and signaling pathways, which facilitates carcinogenesis. Ineffective immune surveillance or immune response suppression can induce uncontrolled virus propagation and host cell proliferation. In this review, we discuss current data that provide insights into mechanisms of apoptotic death suppression by viruses and their role in oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Zamaraev
- Faculty of Basic Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119192, Russia
| | - B Zhivotovsky
- Faculty of Basic Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119192, Russia.,Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, SE-171 77, Sweden
| | - G S Kopeina
- Faculty of Basic Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119192, Russia.
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31
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Suares A, Medina MV, Coso O. Autophagy in Viral Development and Progression of Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:603224. [PMID: 33763351 PMCID: PMC7982729 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.603224] [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: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a complex degradative process by which eukaryotic cells capture cytoplasmic components for subsequent degradation through lysosomal hydrolases. Although this catabolic process can be triggered by a great variety of stimuli, action in cells varies according to cellular context. Autophagy has been previously linked to disease development modulation, including cancer. Autophagy helps suppress cancer cell advancement in tumor transformation early stages, while promoting proliferation and metastasis in advanced settings. Oncoviruses are a particular type of virus that directly contribute to cell transformation and tumor development. Extensive molecular studies have revealed complex ways in which autophagy can suppress or improve oncovirus fitness while still regulating viral replication and determining host cell fate. This review includes recent advances in autophagic cellular function and emphasizes its antagonistic role in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Suares
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Medina
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Omar Coso
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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32
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Suares A, Medina MV, Coso O. Autophagy in Viral Development and Progression of Cancer. Front Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.603224
expr 816899697 + 824303767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a complex degradative process by which eukaryotic cells capture cytoplasmic components for subsequent degradation through lysosomal hydrolases. Although this catabolic process can be triggered by a great variety of stimuli, action in cells varies according to cellular context. Autophagy has been previously linked to disease development modulation, including cancer. Autophagy helps suppress cancer cell advancement in tumor transformation early stages, while promoting proliferation and metastasis in advanced settings. Oncoviruses are a particular type of virus that directly contribute to cell transformation and tumor development. Extensive molecular studies have revealed complex ways in which autophagy can suppress or improve oncovirus fitness while still regulating viral replication and determining host cell fate. This review includes recent advances in autophagic cellular function and emphasizes its antagonistic role in cancer cells.
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The Pivotal Role of Viruses in the Pathogeny of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Monoclonal (Type 1) IgG K Cryoglobulinemia and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Diagnosis in the Course of a Human Metapneumovirus Infection. Viruses 2021; 13:v13010115. [PMID: 33466993 PMCID: PMC7830454 DOI: 10.3390/v13010115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Type-1 cryoglobulinemia (CG) is a rare disease associated with B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder. Some viral infections, such as Epstein–Barr Virus infections, are known to cause malignant lymphoproliferation, like certain B-cell lymphomas. However, their role in the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is still debatable. Here, we report a unique case of Type-1 CG associated to a CLL transformation diagnosed in the course of a human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infection. Case presentation: A 91-year-old man was initially hospitalized for delirium. In a context of febrile rhinorrhea, the diagnosis of hMPV infection was made by molecular assay (RT-PCR) on nasopharyngeal swab. Owing to hyperlymphocytosis that developed during the course of the infection and unexplained peripheral neuropathy, a type-1 IgG Kappa CG secondary to a CLL was diagnosed. The patient was not treated for the CLL because of Binet A stage classification and his poor physical condition. Conclusions: We report the unique observation in the literature of CLL transformation and hMPV infection. We provide a mini review on the pivotal role of viruses in CLL pathophysiology.
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Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the most recently discovered human oncogenic virus. MCPyV asymptomatically infects most of the human population. In the elderly and immunocompromised, however, it can cause a highly lethal form of human skin cancer called Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Distinct from the productive MCPyV infection that replicates the viral genome as episomes, MCC tumors contain replication-incompetent, integrated viral genomes. Mutant MCPyV tumor antigen genes expressed from the integrated viral genomes are essential for driving the oncogenic development of MCPyV-associated MCC. In this chapter, we summarize recent discoveries on MCPyV virology, mechanisms of MCPyV-mediated oncogenesis, and the current therapeutic strategies for MCPyV-associated MCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jianxin You
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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A Comprehensive Proteomics Analysis of the JC Virus (JCV) Large and Small Tumor Antigen Interacting Proteins: Large T Primarily Targets the Host Protein Complexes with V-ATPase and Ubiquitin Ligase Activities While Small t Mostly Associates with Those Having Phosphatase and Chromatin-Remodeling Functions. Viruses 2020; 12:v12101192. [PMID: 33092197 PMCID: PMC7594058 DOI: 10.3390/v12101192] [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: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The oncogenic potential of both the polyomavirus large (LT-Ag) and small (Sm t-Ag) tumor antigens has been previously demonstrated in both tissue culture and animal models. Even the contribution of the MCPyV tumor antigens to the development of an aggressive human skin cancer, Merkel cell carcinoma, has been recently established. To date, the known primary targets of these tumor antigens include several tumor suppressors such as pRb, p53, and PP2A. However, a comprehensive list of the host proteins targeted by these proteins remains largely unknown. Here, we report the first interactome of JCV LT-Ag and Sm t-Ag by employing two independent “affinity purification/mass spectroscopy” (AP/MS) assays. The proteomics data identified novel targets for both tumor antigens while confirming some of the previously reported interactions. LT-Ag was found to primarily target the protein complexes with ATPase (v-ATPase and Smc5/6 complex), phosphatase (PP4 and PP1), and ligase (E3-ubiquitin) activities. In contrast, the major targets of Sm t-Ag were identified as Smarca1/6, AIFM1, SdhA/B, PP2A, and p53. The interactions between “LT-Ag and SdhB”, “Sm t-Ag and Smarca5”, and “Sm t-Ag and SDH” were further validated by biochemical assays. Interestingly, perturbations in some of the LT-Ag and Sm t-Ag targets identified in this study were previously shown to be associated with oncogenesis, suggesting new roles for both tumor antigens in novel oncogenic pathways. This comprehensive data establishes new foundations to further unravel the new roles for JCV tumor antigens in oncogenesis and the viral life cycle.
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Nikolouzakis TK, Falzone L, Lasithiotakis K, Krüger-Krasagakis S, Kalogeraki A, Sifaki M, Spandidos DA, Chrysos E, Tsatsakis A, Tsiaoussis J. Current and Future Trends in Molecular Biomarkers for Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Predictive Purposes in Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E2868. [PMID: 32899768 PMCID: PMC7564050 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9092868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin cancer represents the most common type of cancer among Caucasians and presents in two main forms: melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). NMSC is an umbrella term, under which basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) are found along with the pre-neoplastic lesions, Bowen disease (BD) and actinic keratosis (AK). Due to the mild nature of the majority of NMSC cases, research regarding their biology has attracted much less attention. Nonetheless, NMSC can bear unfavorable characteristics for the patient, such as invasiveness, local recurrence and distant metastases. In addition, late diagnosis is relatively common for a number of cases of NMSC due to the inability to recognize such cases. Recognizing the need for clinically and economically efficient modes of diagnosis, staging, and prognosis, the present review discusses the main etiological and pathological features of NMSC as well as the new and promising molecular biomarkers available including telomere length (TL), telomerase activity (TA), CpG island methylation (CIM), histone methylation and acetylation, microRNAs (miRNAs), and micronuclei frequency (MNf). The evaluation of all these aspects is important for the correct management of NMSC; therefore, the current review aims to assist future studies interested in exploring the diagnostic and prognostic potential of molecular biomarkers for these entities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taxiarchis Konstantinos Nikolouzakis
- Laboratory of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71110 Heraklion, Crete, Greece;
- Department of General Surgery, University General Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Crete, Greece; (K.L.); (E.C.)
| | - Luca Falzone
- Epidemiology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori ‘Fondazione G. Pascale’, I-80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Konstantinos Lasithiotakis
- Department of General Surgery, University General Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Crete, Greece; (K.L.); (E.C.)
| | | | - Alexandra Kalogeraki
- Department of Pathology-Cytopathology, Medical School, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Crete, Greece;
| | - Maria Sifaki
- Centre of Toxicology Science and Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece;
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece;
| | - Emmanuel Chrysos
- Department of General Surgery, University General Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Crete, Greece; (K.L.); (E.C.)
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Centre of Toxicology Science and Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece;
| | - John Tsiaoussis
- Laboratory of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71110 Heraklion, Crete, Greece;
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Ahye N, Bellizzi A, May D, Wollebo HS. The Role of the JC Virus in Central Nervous System Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176236. [PMID: 32872288 PMCID: PMC7503523 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of mortality worldwide. The study of DNA tumor-inducing viruses and their oncoproteins as a causative agent in cancer initiation and tumor progression has greatly enhanced our understanding of cancer cell biology. The initiation of oncogenesis is a complex process. Specific gene mutations cause functional changes in the cell that ultimately result in the inability to regulate cell differentiation and proliferation effectively. The human neurotropic Polyomavirus JC (JCV) belongs to the family Polyomaviridae and it is the causative agent of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), which is a fatal neurodegenerative disease in an immunosuppressed state. Sero-epidemiological studies have indicated JCV infection is prevalent in the population (85%) and that initial infection usually occurs during childhood. The JC virus has small circular, double-stranded DNA that includes coding sequences for viral early and late proteins. Persistence of the virus in the brain and other tissues, as well as its potential to transform cells, has made it a subject of study for its role in brain tumor development. Earlier observation of malignant astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in PML, as well as glioblastoma formation in non-human primates inoculated with JCV, led to the hypothesis that JCV plays a role in central nervous system (CNS) tumorigenesis. Some studies have reported the presence of both JC viral DNA and its proteins in several primary brain tumor specimens. The discovery of new Polyomaviruses such as the Merkel cell Polyomavirus, which is associated with Merkel cell carcinomas in humans, ignited our interest in the role of the JC virus in CNS tumors. The current evidence known about JCV and its effects, which are sufficient to produce tumors in animal models, suggest it can be a causative factor in central nervous system tumorigenesis. However, there is no clear association between JCV presence in CNS and its ability to initiate CNS cancer and tumor formation in humans. In this review, we will discuss the correlation between JCV and tumorigenesis of CNS in animal models, and we will give an overview of the current evidence for the JC virus’s role in brain tumor formation.
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Czech-Sioli M, Günther T, Therre M, Spohn M, Indenbirken D, Theiss J, Riethdorf S, Qi M, Alawi M, Wülbeck C, Fernandez-Cuesta I, Esmek F, Becker JC, Grundhoff A, Fischer N. High-resolution analysis of Merkel Cell Polyomavirus in Merkel Cell Carcinoma reveals distinct integration patterns and suggests NHEJ and MMBIR as underlying mechanisms. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008562. [PMID: 32833988 PMCID: PMC7470373 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the etiological agent of the majority of Merkel Cell Carcinomas (MCC). MCPyV positive MCCs harbor integrated, defective viral genomes that constitutively express viral oncogenes. Which molecular mechanisms promote viral integration, if distinct integration patterns exist, and if integration occurs preferentially at loci with specific chromatin states is unknown. We here combined short and long-read (nanopore) next-generation sequencing and present the first high-resolution analysis of integration site structure in MCC cell lines as well as primary tumor material. We find two main types of integration site structure: Linear patterns with chromosomal breakpoints that map closely together, and complex integration loci that exhibit local amplification of genomic sequences flanking the viral DNA. Sequence analysis suggests that linear patterns are produced during viral replication by integration of defective/linear genomes into host DNA double strand breaks via non-homologous end joining, NHEJ. In contrast, our data strongly suggest that complex integration patterns are mediated by microhomology-mediated break-induced replication, MMBIR. Furthermore, we show by ChIP-Seq and RNA-Seq analysis that MCPyV preferably integrates in open chromatin and provide evidence that viral oncogene expression is driven by the viral promoter region, rather than transcription from juxtaposed host promoters. Taken together, our data explain the characteristics of MCPyV integration and may also provide a model for integration of other oncogenic DNA viruses such as papillomaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manja Czech-Sioli
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Günther
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marlin Therre
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Spohn
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Indenbirken
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Juliane Theiss
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Riethdorf
- Institute of Tumorbiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Minyue Qi
- Bioinformatics Core, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Malik Alawi
- Bioinformatics Core, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Wülbeck
- Translational skin cancer research, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Irene Fernandez-Cuesta
- Institute of Nanostructure- and Solid State Physics (INF), Center for Hybrid Nanostructures (CHyN), University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Esmek
- Institute of Nanostructure- and Solid State Physics (INF), Center for Hybrid Nanostructures (CHyN), University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen C. Becker
- Translational skin cancer research, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Adam Grundhoff
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail: (AG); (NF)
| | - Nicole Fischer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail: (AG); (NF)
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Pietropaolo V, Prezioso C, Moens U. Merkel Cell Polyomavirus and Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1774. [PMID: 32635198 PMCID: PMC7407210 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses are the cause of approximately 15% of all human cancers. Both RNA and DNA human tumor viruses have been identified, with Merkel cell polyomavirus being the most recent one to be linked to cancer. This virus is associated with about 80% of Merkel cell carcinomas, a rare, but aggressive cutaneous malignancy. Despite its name, the cells of origin of this tumor may not be Merkel cells. This review provides an update on the structure and life cycle, cell tropism and epidemiology of the virus and its oncogenic properties. Putative strategies to prevent viral infection or treat virus-positive Merkel cell carcinoma patients are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pietropaolo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University, 00185 Rome, Italy; (V.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Carla Prezioso
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University, 00185 Rome, Italy; (V.P.); (C.P.)
- IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, Microbiology of Chronic Neuro-Degenerative Pathologies, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø—The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
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Abdulsalam I, Rasheed K, Sveinbjørnsson B, Ehlers B, Moens U. Promoter activity of Merkel cell Polyomavirus variants in human dermal fibroblasts and a Merkel cell carcinoma cell line. Virol J 2020; 17:54. [PMID: 32306957 PMCID: PMC7168875 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-020-01317-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a human polyomavirus that establishes a life-long harmless infection in most individuals, with dermal fibroblasts believed to be the natural host cell. However, this virus is the major cause of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive skin cancer. Several MCPyV variants with polymorphism in their promoter region have been isolated, but it is not known whether these differences affect the biological properties of the virus. Methods Using transient transfection studies in human dermal fibroblasts and the MCC cell line MCC13, we compared the transcription activity of the early and late promoters of the most commonly described non-coding control region MCPyV variant and six other isolates containing specific mutation patterns. Results Both the early and late promoters were significantly stronger in human dermal fibroblasts compared with MCC13 cells, and a different promoter strength between the MCPyV variants was observed. The expression of full-length large T-antigen, a viral protein that regulates early and late promoter activity, inhibited early and late promoter activities in both cell lines. Nonetheless, a truncated large T-antigen, which is expressed in virus-positive MCCs, stimulated the activity of its cognate promoter. Conclusion The promoter activities of all MCPyV variants tested was stronger in human dermal fibroblasts, a cell line that supports viral replication, than in MCC13 cells, which are not permissive for MCPyV. Truncated large T-antigen, but not full-length large T-antigen stimulated viral promoter activity. Whether, the difference in promoter strength and regulation by large T-antigen may affect the replication and tumorigenic properties of the virus remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Abdulsalam
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Present address: Tumor Biology Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Kashif Rasheed
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Baldur Sveinbjørnsson
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Bernhard Ehlers
- Division 12 Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Viruses Affecting Immunocompromised Patients, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
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Siebels S, Czech-Sioli M, Spohn M, Schmidt C, Theiss J, Indenbirken D, Günther T, Grundhoff A, Fischer N. Merkel Cell Polyomavirus DNA Replication Induces Senescence in Human Dermal Fibroblasts in a Kap1/Trim28-Dependent Manner. mBio 2020; 11:e00142-20. [PMID: 32156811 PMCID: PMC7064754 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00142-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the only polyomavirus known to be associated with tumorigenesis in humans. Similarly to other polyomaviruses, MCPyV expresses a large tumor antigen (LT-Ag) that, together with a small tumor antigen (sT-Ag), contributes to cellular transformation and that is of critical importance for the initiation of the viral DNA replication. Understanding the cellular protein network regulated by MCPyV early proteins will significantly contribute to our understanding of the natural MCPyV life cycle as well as of the mechanisms by which the virus contributes to cellular transformation. We here describe KRAB-associated protein 1 (Kap1), a chromatin remodeling factor involved in cotranscriptional regulation, as a novel protein interaction partner of MCPyV T antigens sT and LT. Kap1 knockout results in a significant increase in the level of viral DNA replication that is highly suggestive of Kap1 being an important host restriction factor during MCPyV infection. Differently from other DNA viruses, MCPyV gene expression is unaffected in the absence of Kap1 and Kap1 does not associate with the viral genome. Instead, we show that in primary normal human dermal fibroblast (nHDF) cells, MCPyV DNA replication, but not T antigen expression alone, induces ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase-dependent Kap1 S824 phosphorylation, a mechanism that typically facilitates repair of double-strand breaks in heterochromatin by arresting the cells in G2 We show that MCPyV-induced inhibition of cell proliferation is mainly conferred by residues within the origin binding domain and thereby by viral DNA replication. Our data suggest that phosphorylation of Kap1 and subsequent Kap1-dependent G2 arrest/senescence represent host defense mechanisms against MCPyV replication in nHDF cells.IMPORTANCE We here describe Kap1 as a restriction factor in MCPyV infection. We report a novel, indirect mechanism by which Kap1 affects MCPyV replication. In contrast with from other DNA viruses, Kap1 does not associate with the viral genome in MCPyV infection and has no impact on viral gene expression. In MCPyV-infected nHDF cells, Kap1 phosphorylation (pKap1 S824) accumulates because of genomic stress mainly induced by viral DNA replication. In contrast, ectopic expression of LT or LT MCPyV mutants, previously shown to be important for induction of genotoxic stress, does not result in a similar extent of pKap1 accumulation. We show that cells actively replicating MCPyV accumulate pKap1 (in a manner dependent on the presence of ATM) and display a senescence phenotype reflected by G2 arrest. These results are supported by transcriptome analyses showing that LT antigen, in a manner dependent on the presence of Kap1, induces expression of secreted factors, which is known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Svenja Siebels
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Manja Czech-Sioli
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Spohn
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Schmidt
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Juliane Theiss
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Indenbirken
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Günther
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Adam Grundhoff
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Fischer
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Liu W, Krump NA, Herlyn M, You J. Combining DNA Damage Induction with BCL-2 Inhibition to Enhance Merkel Cell Carcinoma Cytotoxicity. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9020035. [PMID: 32093022 PMCID: PMC7168258 DOI: 10.3390/biology9020035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly lethal skin cancer. MCC tumors rapidly develop resistance to the chemotherapies tested to date. While PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint blockade has demonstrated success in MCC treatment, a significant portion of MCC patients are nonresponsive. Therefore, the pressing need for effective MCC chemotherapies remains. We screened a library of natural products and discovered that one compound, glaucarubin, potently reduced the viability of Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV)-positive MCCs, while remaining nontoxic to primary human fibroblasts and MCPyV-negative MCC cell lines tested. Protein array and Western blot analyses revealed that glaucarubin induces DNA damage and PARP-1 cleavage that correlates with the loss of viability in MCC cells. However, high basal expression of the antiapoptotic factor BCL-2 allowed a subpopulation of cells to survive glaucarubin treatment. Previous studies have shown that, while targeting BCL-2 family proteins significantly decreases MCC cell viability, BCL-2 antisense therapy alone was insufficient to inhibit tumor growth in patients with advanced MCC. We discovered that treatment with an FDA-approved BCL-2 inhibitor in the context of glaucarubin-induced DNA damage led to near complete killing in multiple MCPyV-positive MCC cell lines that express high levels of BCL-2. The combination of DNA damage-induced apoptosis and BCL-2 inhibition thus represents a novel therapeutic strategy for MCPyV-positive MCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (W.L.); (N.A.K.)
| | - Nathan A. Krump
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (W.L.); (N.A.K.)
| | - Meenhard Herlyn
- The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Jianxin You
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (W.L.); (N.A.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-215-573-6781
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The Ubiquitin-Specific Protease Usp7, a Novel Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Large T-Antigen Interaction Partner, Modulates Viral DNA Replication. J Virol 2020; 94:JVI.01638-19. [PMID: 31801860 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01638-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the major cause for Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare but highly aggressive skin cancer predominantly found in elderly and immunosuppressed patients. The early viral gene products large T-antigen (LT) and small T-antigen (sT) are important for efficient viral DNA replication, and both contribute to transformation processes. These functions are executed mainly through interactions with host factors. Here, we identify the cellular ubiquitin-specific processing protease 7 (Usp7) as a new interaction partner of the MCPyV LT. Using glutathione S-transferase pulldown experiments, we show that MCPyV LT directly binds to Usp7 and that N- as well as C-terminal regions of LT bind to the TRAF (tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated) domain of Usp7. We demonstrate that endogenous Usp7 coprecipitates with MCPyV T-antigens and relocalizes to viral DNA replication centers in cells actively replicating MCPyV genomes. We show that Usp7 does not alter ubiquitination levels of the T-antigens; however, Usp7 binding increases the binding affinity of LT to the origin of replication, thereby negatively regulating viral DNA replication. Together, these data identify Usp7 as a restriction factor of MCPyV replication. In contrast to other DNA viruses, Usp7 does not affect MCPyV gene expression via its ubiquitination activity but influences MCPyV DNA replication solely via a novel mechanism that modulates binding of LT to viral DNA.IMPORTANCE MCPyV is the only human polyomavirus that is associated with cancer; the majority of Merkel cell cancers have a viral etiology. While much emphasis was placed on investigations to understand the transformation process by MCPyV oncoproteins and cellular factors, we have only limited knowledge of cellular factors participating in the MCPyV life cycle. Here, we describe Usp7, a cellular deubiquitination enzyme, as a new factor involved in MCPyV replication. Usp7 is known in the context of large DNA tumor viruses, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus, to restrict viral replication. Similar to EBV, where Usp7 binding to EBNA1 increases EBNA1 binding affinity to viral DNA, we find MCPyV LT binding to the origin of replication to be increased in the presence of Usp7, resulting in restriction of viral DNA replication. However, Usp7-induced restriction of MCPyV replication is independent of its enzymatic activity, thereby constituting a novel mechanism of Usp7-induced restriction of viral replication.
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Cells to Surgery Quiz: February 2020. J Invest Dermatol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Danger is only skin deep: aggressive epidermal carcinomas. An overview of the diagnosis, demographics, molecular-genetics, staging, prognostic biomarkers, and therapeutic advances in Merkel cell carcinoma. Mod Pathol 2020; 33:42-55. [PMID: 31676786 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-019-0394-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a high grade primary cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma and is among the most aggressive cutaneous malignancies. The rising incidence of MCC, together with its often rapidly aggressive course, underscore a critical need to recognize the histopathologic and the immunohistochemical features that inform its accurate diagnosis. In the current review, we summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the accurate diagnosis of MCC and the exclusion of other entities in the differential diagnosis. We provide a comprehensive review of genomic studies that identified the molecular-genetic drivers of MCC as well as a summary of studies identifying prognostic biomarkers that can facilitate risk stratification. Importantly, Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) appears to be causative in most cases of MCC and represents both a diagnostic and prognostic marker. Finally, as staging of MCC has undergone critical refinements with the introduction of the 8th Edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, we provide an update on MCC staging. In particular, the prognostic significance of the sentinel lymph node (SLN) in MCC necessitates a systematic approach to its evaluation and diagnosis to ensure accurate and consistent risk stratification for patients, and we therefore provide a comprehensive overview of SLN evaluation in MCC. Finally, the intimate relationship between MCC and the integrity of the host immune system has led to paradigm-shifting therapeutic advances with the successful application of immune checkpoint blockade to treat patients with advanced disease, and we therefore summarize those studies and the correlative studies in which predictive biomarkers have been identified.
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Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer that has been historically associated with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. In the past 10 years, research in MCC has progressed significantly, demonstrating improved outcomes when treating with immunotherapy, particularly PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, when compared with conventional chemotherapy. There is also increasing evidence of the abscopal effect, a phenomenon describing the regression of untreated, distant MCC tumors following local radiation therapy. Additionally, antibodies to Merkel cell polyomavirus oncoproteins have been found to correlate with disease burden in a subset of patients, providing a useful tool for surveillance after treatment. Guidelines for the management of MCC will likely continue to change as research on surveillance and treatment of MCC continues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin G. Robinson
- Colorado Springs Dermatology Clinic, 170 South Parkside Drive, Colorado Springs, CO, 80910, USA
| | - Daniel Tan
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Siegrid S. Yu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
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Hashida Y, Higuchi T, Matsui K, Shibata Y, Nakajima K, Sano S, Daibata M. Genetic Variability of the Noncoding Control Region of Cutaneous Merkel Cell Polyomavirus: Identification of Geographically Related Genotypes. J Infect Dis 2019; 217:1601-1611. [PMID: 29409030 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a ubiquitous cutaneous virus that causes Merkel cell carcinoma, which develops preferentially in white populations from Europe and North America. However, the genomic variations of MCPyV among ethnic groups have not been well delineated, and even less is known regarding alterations in the noncoding control region (NCCR) in the general population. Methods MCPyV strains recovered from skin swab specimens from 250 healthy participants with distinct ethnicities and geographic origins were subjected to sequencing analysis of the NCCR. Results A 25-base pair tandem repeat caused by a 25-base pair insertion within the NCCR was found predominantly in Japanese and East Asian individuals. Based on the presence of 2 other insertions and a deletion, the NCCR could be classified further into 5 genotypes. This tandem repeat was also found exclusively in the NCCR from Japanese patients with Merkel cell carcinoma, while other genotypes were detected in white patients from Europe and North America. Conclusions Our results suggest that the MCPyV NCCR varies according to ethnicity and that assessing the short NCCR sequence provides a rapid and simple means for identification of the Japanese and East Asian variant genotype. It remains to be established whether these NCCR variations are associated differentially with the pathogenesis of MCPyV-driven Merkel cell carcinoma between regions with varying endemicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumiko Hashida
- Department of Microbiology and Infection, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Kochi, Japan
| | - Tomonori Higuchi
- Department of Microbiology and Infection, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Kochi, Japan
| | - Kiyohiko Matsui
- Clinical Laboratory Science, Nitobe Bunka College, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuka Shibata
- Department of Dermatology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Kochi, Japan
| | - Kimiko Nakajima
- Department of Dermatology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Kochi, Japan
| | - Shigetoshi Sano
- Department of Dermatology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Kochi, Japan
| | - Masanori Daibata
- Department of Microbiology and Infection, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Kochi, Japan
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CRISPR/Cas9 Editing of the Polyomavirus Tumor Antigens Inhibits Merkel Cell Carcinoma Growth In Vitro. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11091260. [PMID: 31466237 PMCID: PMC6770690 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive type of skin cancer whose main causative agent is Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). MCPyV is integrated into the genome of the tumor cells in most MCCs. Virus-positive tumor cells constitutively express two viral oncoproteins that promote cell growth: the small (sT) and the large (LT) tumor antigens (TAs). Despite the success of immunotherapies in patients with MCC, not all individuals respond to these treatments. Therefore, new therapeutic options continue to be investigated. Herein, we used CRISPR/Cas9 to target the viral oncogenes in two virus-positive MCC cell lines: MS-1 and WAGA. Frameshift mutations introduced in the target sequence upon repair of the Cas9-induced DNA break resulted in decreased LT protein levels, which subsequently impaired cell proliferation, caused cell cycle arrest, and led to increased apoptosis. Importantly, a virus-negative non-MCC cell line (HEK293T) remained unaffected, as well as those cells expressing a non-targeting single-guide RNA (sgRNA). Thus, we presumed that the noted effects were not due to the off-target activity of the TAs-targeting sgRNAs. Additionally, WAGA cells had altered levels of cellular proteins involved in cell cycle regulation, supporting the observed cell cycle. Taken together, our findings provide evidence for the development of a CRISPR/Cas9-based therapeutic option for virus-positive MCC.
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Abstract
Viral infection is a major contributor to the global cancer burden. Recent advances have revealed that seven known oncogenic viruses promote tumorigenesis through shared host cell targets and pathways. A comprehensive understanding of the principles of viral oncogenesis may enable the identification of unknown infectious aetiologies of cancer and the development of therapeutic or preventive strategies for virus-associated cancers. In this Review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms of viral oncogenesis in humans. We highlight recent advances in understanding how viral manipulation of host cellular signalling, DNA damage responses, immunity and microRNA targets promotes the initiation and development of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A Krump
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jianxin You
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Samimi M, Benlalam H, Aumond P, Gaboriaud P, Fradin D, Kervarrec T, Florenceau L, Vignard V, Blom A, Touzé A, Gervois N, Labarriere N. Viral and tumor antigen-specific CD8 T-cell responses in Merkel cell carcinoma. Cell Immunol 2019; 344:103961. [PMID: 31472938 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2019.103961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive cutaneous cancer, which is immunogenic, regardless of the presence of MCPyV (80% of cases). The identification of MCC-specific epitopes recognized by CD8 T cells is crucial to expand the arsenal of immunotherapeutic treatments. Until now, most efforts focused on the identification of virus-specific epitopes, whereas immune responses directed against shared cellular tumor-specific antigens have not been evidenced. In this study, we measured T-cell responses against viral (n = 3) and tumor antigens (n = 47) from TILs derived from 21 MCC tumors. Virus-specific CD8 T-cell responses dominated MCC-specific immune responses, and we identified two new HLA-peptide complexes derived from the LT antigen, located in a region encompassing 3 previously identified epitopes. Finally, we show that MAGE-A3 antigen, frequently expressed by MCC tumors, was recognized by CD8 TILs from a virus-negative MCC tumor and thus could be a target for immunotherapy in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahtab Samimi
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; Laboratoire "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus", ISP1282 INRA Université de Tours, France; Dermatology Department, University of Tours, CHU Tours, Tours, France
| | - Houssem Benlalam
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France.
| | - Pascal Aumond
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
| | - Pauline Gaboriaud
- Laboratoire "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus", ISP1282 INRA Université de Tours, France
| | - Delphine Fradin
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Thibault Kervarrec
- Laboratoire "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus", ISP1282 INRA Université de Tours, France; Pathology Department, University of Tours, CHU Tours, Tours, France
| | - Laetitia Florenceau
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
| | - Virginie Vignard
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France; CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Astrid Blom
- Dermatology Department, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Touzé
- Laboratoire "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus", ISP1282 INRA Université de Tours, France
| | - Nadine Gervois
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
| | - Nathalie Labarriere
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
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