1
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Funke K, Einsfelder U, Hansen A, Arévalo L, Schneider S, Nettersheim D, Stein V, Schorle H. Genome-scale CRISPR screen reveals neddylation to contribute to cisplatin resistance of testicular germ cell tumours. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:2270-2282. [PMID: 37024667 PMCID: PMC10241889 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02247-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type II testicular germ cell tumours (TGCT) are the most prevalent tumours in young men. Patients suffering from cisplatin-resistant TGCTs are facing very poor prognosis demanding novel therapeutic options. Neddylation is a known posttranslational modification mediating many important biological processes, including tumorigenesis. Overactivation of the neddylation pathway promotes carcinogenesis and tumour progression in various entities by inducing proteasomal degradation of tumour suppressors (e.g., p21, p27). METHODS We used a genome-scale CRISPR/Cas9 activation screen to identify cisplatin resistance factors. TGCT cell lines were treated with the neddylation inhibitor (MLN4924)/cisplatin/combination and investigated for changes in viability (XTT assay), apoptosis/cell cycle (flow cytometry) as well as in the transcriptome (3'mRNA sequencing). RESULTS NAE1 overexpression was detected in cisplatin-resistant colonies from the CRISPR screen. Inhibition of neddylation using MLN4924 increased cisplatin cytotoxicity in TGCT cell lines and sensitised cisplatin-resistant cells towards cisplatin. Apoptosis, G2/M-phase cell cycle arrest, γH2A.X/P27 accumulation and mesoderm/endoderm differentiation were observed in TGCT cells, while fibroblast cells were unaffected. CONCLUSIONS We identified overactivation of neddylation as a factor for cisplatin resistance in TGCTs and highlighted the additive effect of NAE1 inhibition by MLN4924 in combination with cisplatin as a novel treatment option for TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Funke
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ulf Einsfelder
- Institute of Physiology II, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Aylin Hansen
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lena Arévalo
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Simon Schneider
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Valentin Stein
- Institute of Physiology II, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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2
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Mushtaq K, Khan MU, Al Soub D, Koshy SM, Petkar M, Al Ejji KM. Metastatic yolk sac tumor masquerading as multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma in a young adult: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e6861. [PMID: 36762145 PMCID: PMC9896153 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.6861] [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: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary yolk sac tumor of the liver is very rare and can present as multifocal liver lesions. Multifocal nature may mimic other diagnoses such as hepatocellular carcinoma. Early recognition and therapeutic intervention are important as the prognosis of metastatic yolk sac tumors is poor. We present a case of a young adolescent who presented with bleeding per rectum abdominal pain and multiple liver lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Mushtaq
- Department of GastroenterologyHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar,Executive and Continuing Professional EducationHarvard TH Chan School of Public HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Muhammad Umair Khan
- Department of GastroenterologyHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar,Executive and Continuing Professional EducationHarvard TH Chan School of Public HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Deema Al Soub
- Department of Palliative MedicineNational Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR)DohaQatar
| | - Sheija Mary Koshy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and PathologyHamad General HospitalDohaQatar
| | - Maher Petkar
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and PathologyHamad General HospitalDohaQatar
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3
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Mushtaq K, Khan MU, Al Soub D, Koshy SM, Petkar M, Al Ejji KM. Metastatic yolk sac tumor masquerading as multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma in a young adult: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1002/ccr3.6861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/15/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractPrimary yolk sac tumor of the liver is very rare and can present as multifocal liver lesions. Multifocal nature may mimic other diagnoses such as hepatocellular carcinoma. Early recognition and therapeutic intervention are important as the prognosis of metastatic yolk sac tumors is poor. We present a case of a young adolescent who presented with bleeding per rectum abdominal pain and multiple liver lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Mushtaq
- Department of Gastroenterology Hamad Medical Corporation Doha Qatar
- Executive and Continuing Professional Education Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Muhammad Umair Khan
- Department of Gastroenterology Hamad Medical Corporation Doha Qatar
- Executive and Continuing Professional Education Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Deema Al Soub
- Department of Palliative Medicine National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) Doha Qatar
| | - Sheija Mary Koshy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology Hamad General Hospital Doha Qatar
| | - Maher Petkar
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology Hamad General Hospital Doha Qatar
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4
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Burmeister A, Stephan A, Alves Avelar LA, Müller MR, Seiwert A, Höfmann S, Fischer F, Torres-Gomez H, Hoffmann MJ, Niegisch G, Bremmer F, Petzsch P, Köhrer K, Albers P, Kurz T, Skowron MA, Nettersheim D. Establishment and Evaluation of Dual HDAC/BET Inhibitors as Therapeutic Options for Germ Cell Tumors and Other Urological Malignancies. Mol Cancer Ther 2022; 21:1674-1688. [PMID: 35999659 PMCID: PMC9630828 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-22-0207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Urological malignancies represent major challenges for clinicians, with annually rising incidences. In addition, cisplatin treatment induced long-term toxicities and the development of therapy resistance emphasize the need for novel therapeutics. In this study, we analyzed the effects of novel histone deacetylase (HDAC) and bromodomain and extraterminal domain-containing (BET) inhibitors to combine them into a potent HDAC-BET-fusion molecule and to understand their molecular mode-of-action. Treatment of (cisplatin-resistant) germ cell tumors (GCT), urothelial, renal, and prostate carcinoma cells with the HDAC, BET, and dual inhibitors decreased cell viability, induced apoptosis, and affected the cell cycle. Furthermore, a dual inhibitor considerably decreased tumor burden in GCT xenograft models. On a molecular level, correlating RNA- to ATAC-sequencing data indicated a considerable induction of gene expression, accompanied by site-specific changes of chromatin accessibility after HDAC inhibitor application. Upregulated genes could be linked to intra- and extra-cellular trafficking, cellular organization, and neuronal processes, including neuroendocrine differentiation. Regarding chromatin accessibility on a global level, an equal distribution of active or repressed DNA accessibility has been detected after HDAC inhibitor treatment, questioning the current understanding of HDAC inhibitor function. In summary, our HDAC, BET, and dual inhibitors represent a new treatment alternative for urological malignancies. Furthermore, we shed light on new molecular and epigenetic mechanisms of the tested epi-drugs, allowing for a better understanding of the underlying modes-of-action and risk assessment for the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Burmeister
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexa Stephan
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Leandro A. Alves Avelar
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Melanie R. Müller
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Andrea Seiwert
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Höfmann
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Fabian Fischer
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hector Torres-Gomez
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Michèle J. Hoffmann
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Bladder Cancer Group, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Guenter Niegisch
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Bladder Cancer Group, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Department of Urology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Felix Bremmer
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Patrick Petzsch
- Genomics and Transcriptomics Laboratory (GTL), Biological and Medical Research Center (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Karl Köhrer
- Genomics and Transcriptomics Laboratory (GTL), Biological and Medical Research Center (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Peter Albers
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurz
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Margaretha A. Skowron
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Corresponding Authors: Daniel Nettersheim, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany. Phone: 49-021-1811-5844; E-mail: ; and Margaretha A. Skowron,
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Corresponding Authors: Daniel Nettersheim, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany. Phone: 49-021-1811-5844; E-mail: ; and Margaretha A. Skowron,
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5
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Oing C, Fankhauser CD. Hodentumoren aus klinischer Sicht. DIE PATHOLOGIE 2022; 43:434-440. [PMID: 36156132 PMCID: PMC9585009 DOI: 10.1007/s00292-022-01113-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung
Hintergrund
Keimzelltumoren des Hodens sind die häufigste maligne Tumorerkrankung bei Männern im Alter von 15–40 Jahren. Die Unterscheidung von Seminomen und Nichtseminomen hat prognostische Bedeutung und ist für Therapieplanung und Nachsorge essenziell. Durch interdisziplinäre, stadiengerechte Therapie haben Keimzelltumoren generell eine sehr gute Prognose. Eine Übertherapie sollte wegen möglicher Langzeitfolgen vermieden werden. Hierbei hilft die Risikobeurteilung anhand klinischer und pathologischer Faktoren.
Ziel der Arbeit
Darstellung der (histo-)pathologischen Charakteristika, die die uroonkologische Therapieplanung maßgeblich beeinflussen.
Material und Methoden
Nichtsystematischer Übersichtsartikel über die relevanten (histo-)pathologischen Befunde für die klinische Therapieplanung im interdisziplinären Kontext.
Ergebnisse
Zentrale Pathologiebefunde für Kliniker:Innen sind: (i) Identifikation eines Keimzelltumors, ggf. durch Nachweis eines Chromosom-12p-Zugewinns, (ii) Subtypenspezifizierung und (iii) Angabe von Risikofaktoren (insbesondere Invasion von Lymphgefäßen und/oder Rete testis und Tumorgröße). Molekularpathologische Untersuchungen i. S. von Mutationsanalysen sind angesichts einer sehr geringen Mutationslast und bislang fehlender prädiktiver Marker und zielgerichteter Therapieoptionen nicht Teil der Routinediagnostik.
Diskussion
Ein detaillierter, idealerweise synoptischer histopathologischer Befundbericht ist Grundlage der Planung und Durchführung einer leitlinienkonformen, risikoadaptierten Therapie und neben der bildgebenden Diagnostik und der Bestimmung der Serumtumormarker AFP und β‑HCG (letztere insbesondere bei Nichtseminomen) mitentscheidend, um die guten Heilungsaussichten zu wahren und eine Übertherapie zu vermeiden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Oing
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Centre for Cancer, Newcastle University, NE1 7RU, Newcastle upon Tyne, Großbritannien.
- Mildred Scheel Nachwuchszentrum HaTriCS4, Universitäres Cancer Center Hamburg, Universitätsklinikum Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Deutschland.
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6
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Skowron MA, Eul K, Stephan A, Ludwig GF, Wakileh GA, Bister A, Söhngen C, Raba K, Petzsch P, Poschmann G, Kuffour EO, Degrandi D, Ali S, Wiek C, Hanenberg H, Münk C, Stühler K, Köhrer K, Mass E, Nettersheim D. Profiling the 3D interaction between germ cell tumors and microenvironmental cells at the transcriptome and secretome level. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:3107-3127. [PMID: 35811571 PMCID: PMC9441004 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TM), consisting of the extracellular matrix (ECM), fibroblasts, endothelial cells and immune cells, might affect tumor invasiveness and the outcome of standard chemotherapy. This study investigated the cross-talk between germ cell tumors (GCT) and surrounding TM cells (macrophages, T-lymphocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts) at the transcriptome and secretome level. Using high-throughput approaches of three-dimensional (3D) co-cultured cellular aggregates, this study offers newly identified pathways to be studied with regard to sensitivity towards cisplatin-based chemotherapy or tumor invasiveness as a consequence of the cross-talk between tumor cells and TM components. Mass-spectrometry-based secretome analyses revealed that TM cells secreted factors involved in ECM organization, cell adhesion, angiogenesis and regulation of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) transport. To evaluate direct cell-cell contacts, green fluorescent protein (GFP)-expressing GCT cells and mCherry-expressing TM cells were co-cultured in 3D. Afterwards, cell populations were separated by flow cytometry and analyzed by RNA-sequencing. Correlating the secretome with transcriptome data indicated molecular processes such as cell adhesion and components of the ECM being enriched in most cell populations. Re-analyses of secretome data with regard to lysine- and proline-hydroxylated peptides revealed a gain in proteins, such as collagens and fibronectin. Cultivation of GCT cells on collagen I/IV- or fibronectin-coated plates significantly elevated adhesive and migratory capacity, while decreasing cisplatin sensitivity of GCT cells. Correspondingly, cisplatin sensitivity was significantly reduced in GCT cells under the influence of conditioned medium from fibroblasts and endothelial cells. This study sheds light on the cross-talk between GCT cells and their circumjacent TM, which results in deposition of the ECM and eventually promotes a pro-tumorigenic environment through enhanced migratory and adhesive capacity, as well as decreased cisplatin sensitivity. Hence, our observations indicate that targeting the ECM and its cellular components might be a novel therapeutic option in combination with cisplatin-based chemotherapy for GCT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaretha A Skowron
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katharina Eul
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexa Stephan
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gillian F Ludwig
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gamal A Wakileh
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Department of Urology and Paediatric Urology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Arthur Bister
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christian Söhngen
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katharina Raba
- Institute for Transplantation Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Patrick Petzsch
- Genomics and Transcriptomics Laboratory, Biological and Medical Research Centre (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gereon Poschmann
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Biological and Medical Research Centre (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Edmund Osei Kuffour
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Daniel Degrandi
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Shafaqat Ali
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Constanze Wiek
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Helmut Hanenberg
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics III, University Children's Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Carsten Münk
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kai Stühler
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Biological and Medical Research Centre (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Karl Köhrer
- Genomics and Transcriptomics Laboratory, Biological and Medical Research Centre (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Elvira Mass
- Life and Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, Developmental Biology of the Immune System, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Paulsen FO, Seidel C. Editorial Comment to Phase II trial of nivolumab monotherapy and biomarker screening in patients with chemo-refractory germ cell tumors. Int J Urol 2022; 29:747. [PMID: 35640915 DOI: 10.1111/iju.14949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Finn-Ole Paulsen
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Division of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Seidel
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Division of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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8
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Funke K, Düster R, Wilson PDG, Arévalo L, Geyer M, Schorle H. Transcriptional CDK Inhibitors as Potential Treatment Option for Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071690. [PMID: 35406461 PMCID: PMC8997165 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Type II testicular germ cell tumors are a severe type of cancer in young men demanding alternative treatment options to conventional chemotherapy with less side effects. In particular, patients with chemotherapy-resistant tumors face a bad prognosis and low survival rates. In other tumor entities, transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases (7/8/9/12/13) have been demonstrated to be effective targets. Here, we studied the effects of transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors on a cellular and molecular level. We found several inhibitors to be highly cytotoxic for certain testicular germ cell tumor cell lines while leaving a somatic (fibroblast) control cell line unaffected. This opens up a novel field for effective and specified treatment of type II testicular germ cell tumors. Abstract Type II testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) are the most frequently diagnosed solid malignancy in young men. Up to 15% of patients with metastatic non-seminomas show cisplatin resistance and a very poor survival rate due to lacking treatment options. Transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) have been shown to be effective targets in the treatment of different types of cancer. Here, we investigated the effects of the CDK inhibitors dinaciclib, flavopiridol, YKL-5-124, THZ1, NVP2, SY0351 and THZ531. An XTT viability assay revealed a strong cytotoxic impact of CDK7/12/13 inhibitor SY0351 and CDK9 inhibitor NVP2 on the TGCT wild-type cell lines (2102EP, NCCIT, TCam2) and the cisplatin-resistant cell lines (2102EP-R, NCCIT-R). The CDK7 inhibitor YKL-5-124 showed a strong impact on 2102EP, 2102EP-R, NCCIT and NCCIT-R cell lines, leaving the MPAF control cell line mostly unaffected. FACS-based analysis revealed mild effects on the cell cycle of 2102EP and TCam2 cells after SY0351, YKL-5-124 or NVP2 treatment. Molecular analysis showed a cell-line-specific response for SY0351 and NVP2 inhibition while YKL-5-124 induced similar molecular changes in 2102EP, TCam2 and MPAF cells. Thus, after TGCT subtype determination, CDK inhibitors might be a potential alternative for optimized and individualized therapy independent of chemotherapy sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Funke
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (K.F.); (P.D.-G.W.); (L.A.)
| | - Robert Düster
- The Institute of Structural Biology, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (R.D.); (M.G.)
| | - Prince De-Graft Wilson
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (K.F.); (P.D.-G.W.); (L.A.)
| | - Lena Arévalo
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (K.F.); (P.D.-G.W.); (L.A.)
| | - Matthias Geyer
- The Institute of Structural Biology, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (R.D.); (M.G.)
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (K.F.); (P.D.-G.W.); (L.A.)
- Correspondence:
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9
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Therapeutical interference with the epigenetic landscape of germ cell tumors: a comparative drug study and new mechanistical insights. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:5. [PMID: 34996497 PMCID: PMC8742467 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01223-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Type II germ cell tumors (GCT) are the most common solid cancers in males of age 15 to 35 years. Treatment of these tumors includes cisplatin-based therapy achieving high cure rates, but also leading to late toxicities. As mainly young men are suffering from GCTs, late toxicities play a major role regarding life expectancy, and the development of therapy resistance emphasizes the need for alternative therapeutic options. GCTs are highly susceptible to interference with the epigenetic landscape; therefore, this study focuses on screening of drugs against epigenetic factors as a treatment option for GCTs.
Results We present seven different epigenetic inhibitors efficiently decreasing cell viability in GCT cell lines including cisplatin-resistant subclones at low concentrations by targeting epigenetic modifiers and interactors, like histone deacetylases (Quisinostat), histone demethylases (JIB-04), histone methyltransferases (Chaetocin), epigenetic readers (MZ-1, LP99) and polycomb-repressive complexes (PRT4165, GSK343). Mass spectrometry-based analyses of the histone modification landscape revealed effects beyond the expected mode-of-action of each drug, suggesting a wider spectrum of activity than initially assumed. Moreover, we characterized the effects of each drug on the transcriptome of GCT cells by RNA sequencing and found common deregulations in gene expression of ion transporters and DNA-binding factors. A kinase array revealed deregulations of signaling pathways, like cAMP, JAK-STAT and WNT. Conclusion Our study identified seven drugs against epigenetic modifiers to treat cisplatin-resistant GCTs. Further, we extensively analyzed off-target effects and modes-of-action, which are important for risk assessment of the individual drugs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13148-021-01223-1.
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10
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Skowron MA, Becker TK, Kurz L, Jostes S, Bremmer F, Fronhoffs F, Funke K, Wakileh GA, Müller MR, Burmeister A, Lenz T, Stefanski A, Stühler K, Petzsch P, Köhrer K, Altevogt P, Albers P, Kristiansen G, Schorle H, Nettersheim D. The signal transducer CD24 suppresses the germ cell program and promotes an ectodermal rather than mesodermal cell fate in embryonal carcinomas. Mol Oncol 2021; 16:982-1008. [PMID: 34293822 PMCID: PMC8847992 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13066] [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: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) are stratified into seminomas and nonseminomas. Seminomas share many histological and molecular features with primordial germ cells, whereas the nonseminoma stem cell population—embryonal carcinoma (EC)—is pluripotent and thus able to differentiate into cells of all three germ layers (teratomas). Furthermore, ECs are capable of differentiating into extra‐embryonic lineages (yolk sac tumors, choriocarcinomas). In this study, we deciphered the molecular and (epi)genetic mechanisms regulating expression of CD24, a highly glycosylated signaling molecule upregulated in many cancers. CD24 is overexpressed in ECs compared with other GCT entities and can be associated with an undifferentiated pluripotent cell fate. We demonstrate that CD24 can be transactivated by the pluripotency factor SOX2, which binds in proximity to the CD24 promoter. In GCTs, CD24 expression is controlled by epigenetic mechanisms, that is, histone acetylation, since CD24 can be induced by the application histone deacetylase inhibitors. Vice versa, CD24 expression is downregulated upon inhibition of histone methyltransferases, E3 ubiquitin ligases, or bromodomain (BRD) proteins. Additionally, three‐dimensional (3D) co‐cultivation of EC cells with microenvironmental cells, such as fibroblasts, and endothelial or immune cells, reduced CD24 expression, suggesting that crosstalk with the somatic microenvironment influences CD24 expression. In a CRISPR/Cas9 deficiency model, we demonstrate that CD24 fulfills a bivalent role in differentiation via regulation of homeobox, and phospho‐ and glycoproteins; that is, it is involved in suppressing the germ cell/spermatogenesis program and mesodermal/endodermal differentiation, while poising the cells for ectodermal differentiation. Finally, blocking CD24 by a monoclonal antibody enhanced sensitivity toward cisplatin in EC cells, including cisplatin‐resistant subclones, highlighting CD24 as a putative target in combination with cisplatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaretha A Skowron
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Teresa K Becker
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Lukas Kurz
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sina Jostes
- Department of Oncological Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Hess Center for Science and Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Felix Bremmer
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany
| | | | - Kai Funke
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Gamal A Wakileh
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany.,Department of Urology, University Hospital Ulm, Germany
| | - Melanie R Müller
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Aaron Burmeister
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Thomas Lenz
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Anja Stefanski
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kai Stühler
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Patrick Petzsch
- Genomics & Transcriptomics Lab, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Karl Köhrer
- Genomics & Transcriptomics Lab, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Peter Altevogt
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Albers
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Hubert Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
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11
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El-Diasty HH, El-Sayyad H, Refaat S, El-Ghaweet HA. Efficacy of Quercetin-Sensitized Cisplatin against N-Nitroso-NMethylurea Induced Testicular Carcinogenesis in Wistar Rats. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2021; 22:75-84. [PMID: 33507682 PMCID: PMC8184190 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2021.22.1.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Testicular cancer is a public health problem. The goal of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of quercetin treatment on N-nitroso-N-methyl-urea (MNU)-induced testicular carcinogenesis alone or in combination with cisplatin-treatment. Methods: In total 70 adult male albino rats were categorized into six groups, control, quercetin-treatment (10 mg/kg body weight), cisplatin-treatment (2 mg/kg. body weight), cisplatin and quercetin-treatment, MNU-treatment, MNU plus quercetin-treatment and MNU plus quercetin and cisplatin-treatment. Treatment with quercetin and/or cisplatin was performed after 2 months of MNU induced testicular carcinogenesis. The studied groups were euthanized and sacrificed and their testes were examined for gene expression, biochemical, histological and immunohistochemically analysis, inflammation and apoptosis of germ cells. Results: The fertility of the rats subjected to MNU carcinogenesis was impaired following cisplatin and/or quercetin-treatment. Cisplatin-treatment reduced the fertility rate and improved after quercetin-treatment. Quercetin-treatment decreased the sharp increase in RNA expression of BAX and MPO in both cisplatin-toxicated testes and after MNU carcinogenesis induction. In addition, the testicular levels of testosterone and SOD increased in parallel with depletion of MDA, IL-6, AFP and caspase-3 levels in MNU and/or cisplatin-treatment after –quercetin-treatment. The testicular structure of the cisplatin-treated group recovered their dividing germ and sperm differentiation after-quercetin-treatment. While, there was a great appearance of flourishing germ cell of MNU carcinogenesis post quercetin therapy, there was still a lack of sperm differentiation. Conclusion: Quercetin-treatment showed increased cisplatin activity and decreased testicular carcinogenesis due to anti-neoplastic and antioxidant activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hend Hgm El-Diasty
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Hassan El-Sayyad
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Sherif Refaat
- Department of Medical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Heba A El-Ghaweet
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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12
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Shamash J, Ansell W, Alifrangis C, Thomas B, Wilson P, Stoneham S, Mazhar D, Warren A, Barrett T, Alexander S, Rudman S, Lockley M, Berney D, Sahdev A. The impact of a supranetwork multidisciplinary team (SMDT) on decision-making in testicular cancers: a 10-year overview of the Anglian Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group (AGCCCG). Br J Cancer 2021; 124:368-374. [PMID: 32989229 PMCID: PMC7853071 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-01075-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The germ cell supranetwork multidisciplinary team (SMDT) for the Anglian Network covers a population of 7.5 million. METHODS We reviewed 10 years of SMDT discussion and categorised them into five domains ((1) overall outcome, (2) chemotherapy regimens-untreated disease and salvage therapy, (3) radiology, (4) pathology and (5) complex cases) to assess the impact of the SMDT. RESULTS A total of 2892 new cases were reviewed. In the first 5 years, patients with good prognosis disease had poorer survival in low-volume vs high-volume centres (87.8 vs 95.3, p = 0.02), but the difference was no longer significant in the last 5 years (93.3 vs 95.1, p = 0.30). Radiology review of 3206 scans led to rejection of the diagnosis of progression in 26 cases and a further 10 cases were down-staged. There were 790 pathology reviews by two specialised uropathologists, which lead to changes in 75 cases. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) PET-CT was undertaken during this time period but did not help to predict who would have viable cancer. A total of 26 patients with significant mental health issues who were unable to give informed consent were discussed. CONCLUSION SMDT working has led to an improvement in outcomes and refining of treatment in patients with germ cell tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Benjamin Thomas
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Danish Mazhar
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anne Warren
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Tristan Barrett
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Susanna Alexander
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - Sarah Rudman
- Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Michelle Lockley
- Centre for Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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13
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Oing C, Peters MC, Bremmer F. [What does the oncologist need from the pathologist in testicular cancer?]. DER PATHOLOGE 2020; 41:111-117. [PMID: 33263812 DOI: 10.1007/s00292-020-00872-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular type II germ cell tumours (GCTs) are an exemplar of a curable cancer and the most common malignancy in males aged ≤35 years. Even in metastatic stages, about 70% of patients can be cured by cisplatin-based chemotherapy and multimodal treatments. For patients failing platinum-based standard therapy, prognosis is poor and novel biomarkers and therapeutic options are urgently needed. OBJECTIVES Discussion of desired histopathological information to guide urologists' and oncologists' decision making in the treatment of male GCTs. MATERIAL AND METHODS A narrative review of histopathological key features of male GCT tissue samples for clinical decision making. RESULTS Histopathological workup is crucial to identify (i) a GCT origin in cancers of unknown primary based on isochromosome 12p (i(12p)) detection, (ii) the different type II GCT subtypes, and (iii) risk factors, i.e. lymphovascular or rete testis invasion, among others. Proper histopathological diagnosis is indispensable for guideline-endorsed, histology-driven, and risk-adapted treatment decisions, hereby helping to maintain treatment success while reducing the therapeutic burden and potential long-term sequelae of multimodal treatments. For refractory patients failing standard treatment options, prognosis remains poor and, so far, neither predictive or prognostic biomarkers nor novel therapeutic targets have been established. CONCLUSIONS Close interaction and interdisciplinary discussion of histopathologic and radiologic findings and established risk factors including serum tumour markers is crucial for successful treatment including intensified strategies, where necessary, or prevention of overtreatment, where possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Oing
- Klinik für Onkologie, Hämatologie und Stammzelltransplantation mit Abteilung für Pneumologie, Universitätsklinikum Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Deutschland. .,Mildred Scheel Nachwuchszentrum, HaTriCS4, Universitäres Cancer Center Hamburg, Universitätsklinikum Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Deutschland.
| | - Mia-Carlotta Peters
- Klinik für Onkologie, Hämatologie und Stammzelltransplantation mit Abteilung für Pneumologie, Universitätsklinikum Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Felix Bremmer
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland
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14
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Skowron MA, Vermeulen M, Winkelhausen A, Becker TK, Bremmer F, Petzsch P, Schönberger S, Calaminus G, Köhrer K, Albers P, Nettersheim D. CDK4/6 inhibition presents as a therapeutic option for paediatric and adult germ cell tumours and induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via canonical and non-canonical mechanisms. Br J Cancer 2020; 123:378-391. [PMID: 32418994 PMCID: PMC7403155 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-0891-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Germ cell tumours (GCTs) are the most common solid malignancies in young men. Although high cure rates can be achieved, metastases, resistance to cisplatin-based therapy and late toxicities still represent a lethal threat, arguing for the need of new therapeutic options. In this study, we analysed the potential of cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors palbociclib and ribociclib (PaRi) as molecular drugs to treat cisplatin-resistant and -sensitive paediatric and adult GCTs. METHODS Ten GCT cell lines, including cisplatin-resistant subclones and non-malignant controls, were treated with PaRi and screened for changes in viability (triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (XTT) assay), apoptosis rates (flow cytometry, caspase assay), the cell cycle (flow cytometry), the transcriptome (RNA-sequencing, quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and on protein level (western blot). Expression profiling was performed on paediatric and adult GCT tissues (expression microarrays, qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, 'The Cancer Genome Atlas' database). RESULTS We demonstrate that adult GCTs highly express CDK4, while paediatric GCTs strongly express CDK6 instead. Thus, both GCT types are potentially treatable by PaRi. GCTs presented as highly sensitive towards PaRi, which caused a decrease in viability, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Although GCTs mainly arrested in the G1/G0 phase, some embryonal carcinoma cell lines were able to bypass the G1/S checkpoint and progressed to the G2/M phase. We found that upregulation of CDK3 and downregulation of many mitosis regulation factors, like the HAUS genes, might be responsible for bypassing the G1/S checkpoint and termination of mitosis, respectively. We postulate that GCT cells do not tolerate these alterations in the cell cycle and eventually induce apoptosis. CONCLUSION Our study highlights PaRi as therapeutic options for cisplatin-resistant and -sensitive paediatric and adult GCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaretha A Skowron
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marieke Vermeulen
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Anna Winkelhausen
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Teresa K Becker
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Felix Bremmer
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Patrick Petzsch
- Genomics and Transcriptomics Lab, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Schönberger
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gabriele Calaminus
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Karl Köhrer
- Genomics and Transcriptomics Lab, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Peter Albers
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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15
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Kurz L, Miklyaeva A, Skowron MA, Overbeck N, Poschmann G, Becker T, Eul K, Kurz T, Schönberger S, Calaminus G, Stühler K, Dykhuizen E, Albers P, Nettersheim D. ARID1A Regulates Transcription and the Epigenetic Landscape via POLE and DMAP1 while ARID1A Deficiency or Pharmacological Inhibition Sensitizes Germ Cell Tumor Cells to ATR Inhibition. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E905. [PMID: 32272809 PMCID: PMC7226530 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are the most common solid malignancies found in young men. Although they generally have high cure rates, metastases, resistance to cisplatin-based therapy, and late toxicities still represent a lethal threat, arguing for the need of new therapeutic options. In a previous study, we identified downregulation of the chromatin-remodeling SWI/SNF complex member ARID1A as a key event in the mode of action of the histone deacetylase inhibitor romidepsin. Additionally, the loss-of-function mutations re-sensitize different tumor types to various drugs, like EZH2-, PARP-, HDAC-, HSP90- or ATR-inhibitors. Thus, ARID1A presents as a promising target for synthetic lethality and combination therapy. In this study, we deciphered the molecular function of ARID1A and screened for the potential of two pharmacological ARID1A inhibitors as a new therapeutic strategy to treat GCTs. By CRISPR/Cas9, we generated ARID1A-deficient GCT cells and demonstrate by mass spectrometry that ARID1A is putatively involved in regulating transcription, DNA repair and the epigenetic landscape via DNA Polymerase POLE and the DNA methyltransferase 1-associated protein DMAP1. Additionally, ARID1A/ARID1A deficiency or pharmacological inhibition increased the efficacy of romidepsin and considerably sensitized GCT cells, including cisplatin-resistant subclones, towards ATR inhibition. Thus, targeting ARID1A in combination with romidepsin and ATR inhibitors presents as a new putative option to treat GCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Kurz
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alissa Miklyaeva
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Margaretha A. Skowron
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nina Overbeck
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Molecular Medicine I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gereon Poschmann
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Molecular Medicine I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Teresa Becker
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katharina Eul
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurz
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Schönberger
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, 53113 Bonn, Germany
| | - Gabriele Calaminus
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, 53113 Bonn, Germany
| | - Kai Stühler
- Institute for Molecular Medicine I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Emily Dykhuizen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 479078, USA
| | - Peter Albers
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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16
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Treatment of refractory germ-cell tumours with single-agent cabazitaxel: a German Testicular Cancer Study Group case series. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2019; 146:449-455. [PMID: 31838576 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-019-03071-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Outcomes of multiply relapsed, refractory germ-cell tumour (GCT) patients remain poor with an overall survival (OS) of a few months only. Thus, new therapeutic advances are urgently needed. Cabazitaxel has shown preclinical activity in platinum-resistant GCT models. Here, we report the first clinical case series of cabazitaxel treatment for platinum-refractory GCT. METHODS Data of multiply relapsed GCT patients receiving single-agent cabazitaxel were retrospectively analysed. Endpoints included 12-week progression-free survival (PFS) rate, disease control rate, tumour marker responses, median PFS and OS, and toxicity. RESULTS Cabazitaxel showed limited activity in 13 heavily pre-treated GCT patients. After a median follow-up of 23 weeks (IQR 29), 69% of patients were deceased. A median of 2 cycles of cabazitaxel (range 1-7) were applied. The 12-week PFS rate was 31%. Median PFS and OS were 7 and 23 weeks, respectively. Two patients achieved objective responses (15%), three patients (23%) achieved a tumour marker decline ≥ 50%, and the disease control rate was 39%. Cabazitaxel was well tolerated. CTCAE° III-IV haemato-toxicity was most common (54%), and dose reductions were scarce (15%). CONCLUSION In this case series, cabazitaxel showed limited activity in heavily pre-treated GCT patients. Two-phase II studies are underway (NCT02115165, NCT02478502) prospectively assessing cabazitaxel in multiply relapsed GCTs.
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17
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Oing C, Skowron MA, Bokemeyer C, Nettersheim D. Epigenetic treatment combinations to effectively target cisplatin-resistant germ cell tumors: past, present, and future considerations. Andrology 2019; 7:487-497. [PMID: 30924611 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type II germ cell tumors represent the most common solid malignancy in men aged 15-45 years. Despite high cure rates of >90% over all stages, 10-15% of advanced patients develop treatment resistance and potentially succumb to their disease. Treatment of refractory germ cell tumors remains unsatisfactory, and new approaches are needed to further improve outcomes. OBJECTIVES With this narrative review, we highlight epigenetic mechanisms related to resistance to standard systemic treatment, which may act as promising targets for novel combined epigenetic treatment approaches. MATERIALS AND METHODS A comprehensive literature search of PubMed and MEDLINE was conducted to identify original and review articles on resistance mechanisms and/or epigenetic treatment of germ cell tumors in vitro and in vivo. Review articles were hand-searched to identify additional articles. RESULTS Distinct epigenetic phenomena have been linked to chemotherapy resistance in germ cell tumors, among which DNA hypermethylation, histone acetylation, and bromodomain proteins appear as promising targets for therapeutic exploitation. Inhibitors of key regulators, for example DNA methyltransferases (e.g. decitabine, guadecitabine), histone deacetylases (e.g. romidepsin), and bromodomain proteins (e.g. JQ1) decreased cell viability, triggered apoptosis, and growth arrest. Additionally, these epigenetic drugs induced differentiation and led to loss of pluripotency and re-sensitization towards cisplatin in cell lines and animal models. DISCUSSION Epigenetic treatments hold promise to (i) reduce the treatment burden of and (ii) overcome resistance to standard cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Combined approaches may enhance activity, while the ideal target and treatment combination of epigenetic drugs, either with another epigenetic agent or conventional cytotoxic agents need to be defined. CONCLUSION Epigenetic (combination) treatment for germ cell tumors should be further explored in pre-clinical and clinical research for its potential to further improve germ cell tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Oing
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Division of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Laboratory of Radiobiology and Experimental Radiooncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - M A Skowron
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational Urooncology, University Medical School Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - C Bokemeyer
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Division of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - D Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational Urooncology, University Medical School Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
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