1
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Croushore EE, Stipp CS, Gordon DJ. EWS-FLI1 and Activator Protein-1 (AP-1) Reciprocally Regulate Extracellular-Matrix Proteins in Ewing sarcoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8595. [PMID: 39201282 PMCID: PMC11354993 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of deoxyribonucleotides and the target of multiple chemotherapy drugs, including gemcitabine. We previously identified that inhibition of RNR in Ewing sarcoma tumors upregulates the expression levels of multiple members of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) transcription factor family, including c-Jun and c-Fos, and downregulates the expression of c-Myc. However, the broader functions and downstream targets of AP-1, which are highly context- and cell-dependent, are unknown in Ewing sarcoma tumors. Consequently, in this work, we used genetically defined models, transcriptome profiling, and gene-set -enrichment analysis to identify that AP-1 and EWS-FLI1, the driver oncogene in most Ewing sarcoma tumors, reciprocally regulate the expression of multiple extracellular-matrix proteins, including fibronectins, integrins, and collagens. AP-1 expression in Ewing sarcoma cells also drives, concurrent with these perturbations in gene and protein expression, changes in cell morphology and phenotype. We also identified that EWS-FLI1 dysregulates the expression of multiple AP-1 proteins, aligning with previous reports demonstrating genetic and physical interactions between EWS-FLI1 and AP-1. Overall, these results provide novel insights into the distinct, EWS-FLI1-dependent features of Ewing sarcoma tumors and identify a novel, reciprocal regulation of extracellular-matrix components by EWS-FLI1 and AP-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma E. Croushore
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Christopher S. Stipp
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - David J. Gordon
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
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2
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Wachtel M, Surdez D, Grünewald TGP, Schäfer BW. Functional Classification of Fusion Proteins in Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1355. [PMID: 38611033 PMCID: PMC11010897 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071355] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas comprise a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors of mesenchymal origin. More than 80 entities are associated with different mesenchymal lineages. Sarcomas with fibroblastic, muscle, bone, vascular, adipocytic, and other characteristics are distinguished. Nearly half of all entities contain specific chromosomal translocations that give rise to fusion proteins. These are mostly pathognomonic, and their detection by various molecular techniques supports histopathologic classification. Moreover, the fusion proteins act as oncogenic drivers, and their blockade represents a promising therapeutic approach. This review summarizes the current knowledge on fusion proteins in sarcoma. We categorize the different fusion proteins into functional classes, including kinases, epigenetic regulators, and transcription factors, and describe their mechanisms of action. Interestingly, while fusion proteins acting as transcription factors are found in all mesenchymal lineages, the others have a more restricted pattern. Most kinase-driven sarcomas belong to the fibroblastic/myofibroblastic lineage. Fusion proteins with an epigenetic function are mainly associated with sarcomas of unclear differentiation, suggesting that epigenetic dysregulation leads to a major change in cell identity. Comparison of mechanisms of action reveals recurrent functional modes, including antagonism of Polycomb activity by fusion proteins with epigenetic activity and recruitment of histone acetyltransferases by fusion transcription factors of the myogenic lineage. Finally, based on their biology, we describe potential approaches to block the activity of fusion proteins for therapeutic intervention. Overall, our work highlights differences as well as similarities in the biology of fusion proteins from different sarcomas and provides the basis for a functional classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Wachtel
- Department of Oncology and Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital, Steinwiesstrasse 75, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Didier Surdez
- Balgrist University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich (UZH), CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas G. P. Grünewald
- Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Hopp-Children’s Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), NCT Heidelberg, a Partnership between DKFZ and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Beat W. Schäfer
- Department of Oncology and Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital, Steinwiesstrasse 75, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland
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3
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Silveira DA, Gupta S, da Cunha Jaeger M, Brunetto de Farias C, Mombach JCM, Sinigaglia M. A logical model of Ewing sarcoma cell epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition supports the existence of hybrid cellular phenotypes. FEBS Lett 2023; 597:2446-2460. [PMID: 37597508 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a highly aggressive pediatric tumor driven by the RNA-binding protein EWS (EWS)/friend leukemia integration 1 transcription factor (FLI1) chimeric transcription factor, which is involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT stabilizes a hybrid cell state, boosting metastatic potential and drug resistance. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying the maintenance of this hybrid phenotype in ES remain elusive. Our study proposes a logical EMT model for ES, highlighting zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2), miR-145, and miR-200 circuits that maintain hybrid states. The model aligns with experimental findings and reveals a previously unknown circuit supporting the mesenchymal phenotype. These insights emphasize the role of ZEB2 in the maintenance of the hybrid state in ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daner A Silveira
- Children's Cancer Institute, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children's Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology - INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Mariane da Cunha Jaeger
- Children's Cancer Institute, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children's Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology - INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Caroline Brunetto de Farias
- Children's Cancer Institute, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children's Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology - INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Marialva Sinigaglia
- Children's Cancer Institute, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children's Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology - INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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4
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Dupuy M, Lamoureux F, Mullard M, Postec A, Regnier L, Baud’huin M, Georges S, Brounais-Le Royer B, Ory B, Rédini F, Verrecchia F. Ewing sarcoma from molecular biology to the clinic. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1248753. [PMID: 37752913 PMCID: PMC10518617 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1248753] [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: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In Europe, with an incidence of 7.5 cases per million, Ewing sarcoma (ES) is the second most common primary malignant bone tumor in children, adolescents and young adults, after osteosarcoma. Since the 1980s, conventional treatment has been based on the use of neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapeutic agents combined with surgical resection of the tumor when possible. These treatments have increased the patient survival rate to 70% for localized forms, which drops drastically to less than 30% when patients are resistant to chemotherapy or when pulmonary metastases are present at diagnosis. However, the lack of improvement in these survival rates over the last decades points to the urgent need for new therapies. Genetically, ES is characterized by a chromosomal translocation between a member of the FET family and a member of the ETS family. In 85% of cases, the chromosomal translocation found is (11; 22) (q24; q12), between the EWS RNA-binding protein and the FLI1 transcription factor, leading to the EWS-FLI1 fusion protein. This chimeric protein acts as an oncogenic factor playing a crucial role in the development of ES. This review provides a non-exhaustive overview of ES from a clinical and biological point of view, describing its main clinical, cellular and molecular aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryne Dupuy
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, CRCI2NA, Université d'Angers, Nantes, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Franck Verrecchia
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, CRCI2NA, Université d'Angers, Nantes, France
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5
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Wang S, Huo X, Yang Y, Mo Y, Kollipara RK, Kittler R. Ablation of EWS-FLI1 by USP9X inhibition suppresses cancer cell growth in Ewing sarcoma. Cancer Lett 2023; 552:215984. [PMID: 36330954 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The neomorphic transcription factor EWS-FLI1 is a key driver of Ewing sarcoma. Ablation of EWS-FLI1 may present a promising therapeutic strategy for this malignancy. Here we found that the deubiquitinase, ubiquitin specific peptidase 9 X-linked (USP9X) stabilizes EWS-FLI1 protein expression in Ewing sarcoma. We show that USP9X binds the ETS domain of EWS-FLI1 in Ewing sarcoma cells and deubiquitinates EWS-FLI1 and that USP9X and EWS-FLI1 protein expression is correlated in clinical Ewing sarcoma specimens. We found that treatment of Ewing sarcoma cells with the USP9X inhibitor WP1130 mediates rapid EWS-FLI1 degradation in vitro and in vivo which coincides with reduced growth of Ewing sarcoma cells and tumors. Our results suggest that USP9X might be a potential therapeutic target to mediate EWS-FLI1 depletion in Ewing sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wang
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China; Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Xiaofang Huo
- Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Yiping Yang
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Yingxi Mo
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Rahul K Kollipara
- Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ralf Kittler
- Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA; Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA.
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6
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Maki RG, Grohar PJ, Antonescu CR. Ewing sarcoma and related FET family translocation-associated round cell tumors: A century of clinical and scientific progress. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2022; 61:509-517. [PMID: 35443099 PMCID: PMC9197982 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.23050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The year 2021 marked the centenary of the first publication of a cancer termed diffuse endothelioma of bone by James Ewing. Its unique features were apparent even in the first case series he described. This new diagnosis was clearly distinct from osteogenic sarcoma and myeloma, which were already well recognized at the time. We undertake this summary to better understanding Ewing sarcoma, contrasting the logarithmic evolution of the standard of care of systemic therapy for this and related diagnoses to the exponential understanding of the molecular biology of this family of tumors. We also outline in this manuscript how the finding of genomic relatives within Ewing sarcoma itself and related tumors, first noted nearly 40 years ago, helps us appreciate the need to find therapeutic plans that are specific for each small round blue cell tumor subtype. The advent of next generation sequencing regarding previously unknown small round blue cell tumor subtypes in many ways puts us back in the shoes of James Ewing in 1921, searching anew for clues leading to better treatments for increasingly rare cancer subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert G Maki
- Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patrick J Grohar
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cristina R Antonescu
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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7
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Flores G, Grohar PJ. One oncogene, several vulnerabilities: EWS/FLI targeted therapies for Ewing sarcoma. J Bone Oncol 2021; 31:100404. [PMID: 34976713 PMCID: PMC8686064 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2021.100404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
EWS/FLI is the defining mutation of Ewing sarcoma. This oncogene drives malignant transformation and progression and occurs in a genetic background characterized by few other recurrent cooperating mutations. In addition, the tumor is absolutely dependent on the continued expression of EWS/FLI to maintain the malignant phenotype. However, EWS/FLI is a transcription factor and therefore a challenging drug target. The difficulty of directly targeting EWS/FLI stems from unique features of this fusion protein as well as the network of interacting proteins required to execute the transcriptional program. This network includes interacting proteins as well as upstream and downstream effectors that together reprogram the epigenome and transcriptome. While the vast number of proteins involved in this process challenge the development of a highly specific inhibitors, they also yield numerous therapeutic opportunities. In this report, we will review how this vast EWS-FLI transcriptional network has been exploited over the last two decades to identify compounds that directly target EWS/FLI and/or associated vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Flores
- Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
- Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, USA
| | - Patrick J Grohar
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, 3501 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, USA
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8
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Ban J, Fock V, Aryee DNT, Kovar H. Mechanisms, Diagnosis and Treatment of Bone Metastases. Cells 2021; 10:2944. [PMID: 34831167 PMCID: PMC8616226 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone and bone marrow are among the most frequent metastatic sites of cancer. The occurrence of bone metastasis is frequently associated with a dismal disease outcome. The prevention and therapy of bone metastases is a priority in the treatment of cancer patients. However, current therapeutic options for patients with bone metastatic disease are limited in efficacy and associated with increased morbidity. Therefore, most current therapies are mainly palliative in nature. A better understanding of the underlying molecular pathways of the bone metastatic process is warranted to develop novel, well-tolerated and more successful treatments for a significant improvement of patients' quality of life and disease outcome. In this review, we provide comparative mechanistic insights into the bone metastatic process of various solid tumors, including pediatric cancers. We also highlight current and innovative approaches to biologically targeted therapy and immunotherapy. In particular, we discuss the role of the bone marrow microenvironment in the attraction, homing, dormancy and outgrowth of metastatic tumor cells and the ensuing therapeutic implications. Multiple signaling pathways have been described to contribute to metastatic spread to the bone of specific cancer entities, with most knowledge derived from the study of breast and prostate cancer. However, it is likely that similar mechanisms are involved in different types of cancer, including multiple myeloma, primary bone sarcomas and neuroblastoma. The metastatic rate-limiting interaction of tumor cells with the various cellular and noncellular components of the bone-marrow niche provides attractive therapeutic targets, which are already partially exploited by novel promising immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jozef Ban
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (J.B.); (V.F.); (D.N.T.A.)
| | - Valerie Fock
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (J.B.); (V.F.); (D.N.T.A.)
| | - Dave N. T. Aryee
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (J.B.); (V.F.); (D.N.T.A.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinrich Kovar
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (J.B.); (V.F.); (D.N.T.A.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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9
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Damerell V, Pepper MS, Prince S. Molecular mechanisms underpinning sarcomas and implications for current and future therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:246. [PMID: 34188019 PMCID: PMC8241855 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00647-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are complex mesenchymal neoplasms with a poor prognosis. Their clinical management is highly challenging due to their heterogeneity and insensitivity to current treatments. Although there have been advances in understanding specific genomic alterations and genetic mutations driving sarcomagenesis, the underlying molecular mechanisms, which are likely to be unique for each sarcoma subtype, are not fully understood. This is in part due to a lack of consensus on the cells of origin, but there is now mounting evidence that they originate from mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs). To identify novel treatment strategies for sarcomas, research in recent years has adopted a mechanism-based search for molecular markers for targeted therapy which has included recapitulating sarcomagenesis using in vitro and in vivo MSC models. This review provides a comprehensive up to date overview of the molecular mechanisms that underpin sarcomagenesis, the contribution of MSCs to modelling sarcomagenesis in vivo, as well as novel topics such as the role of epithelial-to-mesenchymal-transition (EMT)/mesenchymal-to-epithelial-transition (MET) plasticity, exosomes, and microRNAs in sarcomagenesis. It also reviews current therapeutic options including ongoing pre-clinical and clinical studies for targeted sarcoma therapy and discusses new therapeutic avenues such as targeting recently identified molecular pathways and key transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Damerell
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michael S Pepper
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Department of Immunology, SAMRC Extramural Unit for Stem Research and Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Sharon Prince
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa.
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10
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Kannan S, Lock I, Ozenberger BB, Jones KB. Genetic drivers and cells of origin in sarcomagenesis. J Pathol 2021; 254:474-493. [DOI: 10.1002/path.5617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarmishta Kannan
- Departments of Orthopaedics and Oncological Sciences Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine Salt Lake City UT USA
| | - Ian Lock
- Departments of Orthopaedics and Oncological Sciences Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine Salt Lake City UT USA
| | - Benjamin B Ozenberger
- Departments of Orthopaedics and Oncological Sciences Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine Salt Lake City UT USA
| | - Kevin B Jones
- Departments of Orthopaedics and Oncological Sciences Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine Salt Lake City UT USA
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11
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Sundara Rajan S, Ludwig KR, Hall KL, Jones TL, Caplen NJ. Cancer biology functional genomics: From small RNAs to big dreams. Mol Carcinog 2020; 59:1343-1361. [PMID: 33043516 PMCID: PMC7702050 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The year 2021 marks the 20th anniversary of the first publications reporting the discovery of the gene silencing mechanism, RNA interference (RNAi) in mammalian cells. Along with the many studies that delineated the proteins and substrates that form the RNAi pathway, this finding changed our understanding of the posttranscriptional regulation of mammalian gene expression. Furthermore, the development of methods that exploited the RNAi pathway began the technological revolution that eventually enabled the interrogation of mammalian gene function-from a single gene to the whole genome-in only a few days. The needs of the cancer research community have driven much of this progress. In this perspective, we highlight milestones in the development and application of RNAi-based methods to study carcinogenesis. We discuss how RNAi-based functional genetic analysis of exemplar tumor suppressors and oncogenes furthered our understanding of cancer initiation and progression and explore how such studies formed the basis of genome-wide scale efforts to identify cancer or cancer-type specific vulnerabilities, including studies conducted in vivo. Furthermore, we examine how RNAi technologies have revealed new cancer-relevant molecular targets and the implications for cancer of the first RNAi-based drugs. Finally, we discuss the future of functional genetic analysis, highlighting the increasing availability of complementary approaches to analyze cancer gene function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Sundara Rajan
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Katelyn R. Ludwig
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Katherine L. Hall
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Tamara L. Jones
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Natasha J. Caplen
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
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12
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Liu Y, Eckenrode JM, Zhang Y, Zhang J, Hayden RC, Kyomuhangi A, Ponomareva LV, Cui Z, Rohr J, Tsodikov OV, Van Lanen SG, Shaaban KA, Leggas M, Thorson JS. Mithramycin 2'-Oximes with Improved Selectivity, Pharmacokinetics, and Ewing Sarcoma Antitumor Efficacy. J Med Chem 2020; 63:14067-14086. [PMID: 33191745 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Mithramycin A (MTM) inhibits the oncogenic transcription factor EWS-FLI1 in Ewing sarcoma, but poor pharmacokinetics (PK) and toxicity limit its clinical use. To address this limitation, we report an efficient MTM 2'-oxime (MTMox) conjugation strategy for rapid MTM diversification. Comparative cytotoxicity assays of 41 MTMox analogues using E-twenty-six (ETS) fusion-dependent and ETS fusion-independent cancer cell lines revealed improved ETS fusion-independent/dependent selectivity indices for select 2'-conjugated analogues as compared to MTM. Luciferase-based reporter assays demonstrated target engagement at low nM concentrations, and molecular assays revealed that analogues inhibit the transcriptional activity of EWS-FLI1. These in vitro screens identified MTMox32E (a Phe-Trp dipeptide-based 2'-conjugate) for in vivo testing. Relative to MTM, MTMox32E displayed an 11-fold increase in plasma exposure and improved efficacy in an Ewing sarcoma xenograft. Importantly, these studies are the first to point to simple C3 aliphatic side-chain modification of MTM as an effective strategy to improve PK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States.,Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Joseph M Eckenrode
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Yinan Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States.,Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Jianjun Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States.,Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Reiya C Hayden
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Annet Kyomuhangi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Larissa V Ponomareva
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States.,Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Zheng Cui
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Jürgen Rohr
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Oleg V Tsodikov
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Steven G Van Lanen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Khaled A Shaaban
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States.,Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Markos Leggas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States.,Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Jon S Thorson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States.,Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
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13
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Martin JC, Hoegel TJ, Lynch ML, Woloszynska A, Melendy T, Ohm JE. Exploiting Replication Stress as a Novel Therapeutic Intervention. Mol Cancer Res 2020; 19:192-206. [PMID: 33020173 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-0651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive pediatric tumor of the bone and soft tissue. The current standard of care is radiation and chemotherapy, and patients generally lack targeted therapies. One of the defining molecular features of this tumor type is the presence of significantly elevated levels of replication stress as compared with both normal cells and many other types of cancers, but the source of this stress is poorly understood. Tumors that harbor elevated levels of replication stress rely on the replication stress and DNA damage response pathways to retain viability. Understanding the source of the replication stress in Ewing sarcoma may reveal novel therapeutic targets. Ewing sarcomagenesis is complex, and in this review, we discuss the current state of our knowledge regarding elevated replication stress and the DNA damage response in Ewing sarcoma, one contributor to the disease process. We will also describe how these pathways are being successfully targeted therapeutically in other tumor types, and discuss possible novel, evidence-based therapeutic interventions in Ewing sarcoma. We hope that this consolidation will spark investigations that uncover new therapeutic targets and lead to the development of better treatment options for patients with Ewing sarcoma. IMPLICATIONS: This review uncovers new therapeutic targets in Ewing sarcoma and highlights replication stress as an exploitable vulnerability across multiple cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey C Martin
- Department of Cancer Genetics and Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Tamara J Hoegel
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Miranda L Lynch
- Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, Buffalo, New York
| | - Anna Woloszynska
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Thomas Melendy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Joyce E Ohm
- Department of Cancer Genetics and Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York.
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14
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Li W, Zhang X, Xi X, Li Y, Quan H, Liu S, Wu L, Wu P, Lan W, Shao Y, Li H, Chen K, Hu Z. PLK2 modulation of enriched TAp73 affects osteogenic differentiation and prognosis in human osteosarcoma. Cancer Med 2020; 9:4371-4385. [PMID: 32349184 PMCID: PMC7300400 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
There are three subtypes of undifferentiated human conventional osteosarcoma (HCOS): osteoblastic osteosarcoma (OOS), chondroblastic osteosarcoma (COS), and fibroblastic osteosarcoma (FOS). HCOS also exhibits heterogeneous pathological maldifferentiation in individual patients. Currently, the mechanism regulating HCOS differentiation remains unclear, and therapies are ineffective. Osteopontin (OPN) and osteocalcin (OCN) are markers of osteoblast maturation, and their expression is inhibited in HCOS. A previous study found that PLK2 inhibited TAp73 phosphorylation and consequent anti-OS function of TAp73 in OS cells with enriched TAp73. TAp73 was also reported to regulate bone cell calcification. Here, OOS was found to have higher TAp73 levels and PLK2 expression than those in COS, which is correlated with HCOS maldifferentiation according to Spearman analysis and affects patient prognosis according to Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. In the conventional OS cell-line Saos2 and in patient-derived xenograft OS (PDX-OS) cells, increased PLK2 expression owing to abundant TAp73 levels affected OPN and OCN content as measured by RT-PCR and Western blotting, and alizarin red staining showed that PLK2 affected calcium deposition in OS cells. In addition, PLK2 inhibition in PDX-OS cells prohibited clone formation, as indicated by a clonogenic assay, and sensitized OS cells to cisplatin (CDDP) (which consequently limited proliferation), as shown by the CCK-8 assay. In an established PDX animal model with abundant TAp73 levels, PLK2 inhibition or CDDP treatment prevented tumor growth and prolonged median survival. The combined therapeutic effect of PLK2 inhibition with CDDP treatment was better than that of either monotherapy. These results indicate that increased PLK2 levels due to enriched TAp73 affect osteogenic differentiation and maturation and OS prognosis. In conclusion, PLK2 is a potential target for differentiation therapy of OS with enriched TAp73.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhu Li
- Department of OrthopedicsShaoguan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical UniversityShaoguanChina
| | - Xianliao Zhang
- Orthopedics CenterZhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Xinhua Xi
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Affiliated Yuebei People's Hospital of Shantou University Medical CollegeShaoguanChina
| | - Yufa Li
- The Second School of Clinical MedicineSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- Department of PathologyGuangdong provincial people's Hospital & Guangdong, Academy of Medical SciencesGuangzhouChina
| | - Hong Quan
- Department of OrthopedicsShaoguan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical UniversityShaoguanChina
| | - Shifeng Liu
- Orthopedics CenterDongguan Eighth People's HospitalDongguanChina
| | - Liqi Wu
- Department of OrthopedicsShaoguan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical UniversityShaoguanChina
| | - Penghuan Wu
- Department of OrthopedicsShaoguan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical UniversityShaoguanChina
- Orthopedics CenterZhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Wenxing Lan
- Department of OrthopedicsShaoguan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical UniversityShaoguanChina
| | - Yongjun Shao
- Department of OrthopedicsShaoguan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical UniversityShaoguanChina
| | - Haomiao Li
- Orthopedics CenterThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityOrthopedics institute of Guangdong ProvinceGuangzhouChina
| | - Kebing Chen
- Orthopedics CenterThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityOrthopedics institute of Guangdong ProvinceGuangzhouChina
| | - Zhengbo Hu
- Department of OrthopedicsShaoguan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical UniversityShaoguanChina
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15
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Namatame N, Tamaki N, Yoshizawa Y, Okamura M, Nishimura Y, Yamazaki K, Tanaka M, Nakamura T, Semba K, Yamori T, Yaguchi SI, Dan S. Antitumor profile of the PI3K inhibitor ZSTK474 in human sarcoma cell lines. Oncotarget 2018; 9:35141-35161. [PMID: 30416685 PMCID: PMC6205545 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.26216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of patients with advanced sarcoma remains challenging due to lack of effective medicine, with the development of novel drugs being of keen interest. A pan-PI3K inhibitor, ZSTK474, has been evaluated in clinical trials against a range of advanced solid tumors, with clinical benefit shown in sarcoma patients. In the present study, we developed a panel of 14 human sarcoma cell lines and investigated the antitumor effect of 24 anticancer agents including ZSTK474, other PI3K inhibitors, and those clinically used for sarcoma treatment. ZSTK474 exhibited a similar antiproliferative profile to other PI3K inhibitors but was clearly different from the other drugs examined. Indeed, ZSTK474 inhibited PI3K-downstream pathways, in parallel to growth inhibition, in all cell lines examined, showing proof-of-concept of PI3K inhibition. In addition, ZSTK474 induced apoptosis selectively in Ewing's sarcoma (RD-ES and A673), alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (SJCRH30) and synovial sarcoma (SYO-1, Aska-SS and Yamato-SS) cell lines, all of which harbor chromosomal translocation and resulting oncogenic fusion genes, EWSR1-FLI1, PAX3-FOXO1 and SS18-SSX, respectively. Finally, animal experiments confirmed the antitumor activity of ZSTK474 in vivo, with superior efficacy observed in translocation-positive cells. These results suggest that ZSTK474 could be a promising drug candidate for treating sarcomas, especially those harboring chromosomal translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nachi Namatame
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan.,R&D Center, Zenyaku Kogyo Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naomi Tamaki
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuya Yoshizawa
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Okamura
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yumiko Nishimura
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kanami Yamazaki
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miwa Tanaka
- Division of Carcinogenesis, Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuro Nakamura
- Division of Carcinogenesis, Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kentaro Semba
- Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takao Yamori
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan.,Present address: Center for Product Evaluation, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichi Yaguchi
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan.,R&D Center, Zenyaku Kogyo Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shingo Dan
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
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16
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Wachtel M, Schäfer BW. PAX3-FOXO1: Zooming in on an “undruggable” target. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 50:115-123. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2017.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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17
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Minas TZ, Surdez D, Javaheri T, Tanaka M, Howarth M, Kang HJ, Han J, Han ZY, Sax B, Kream BE, Hong SH, Çelik H, Tirode F, Tuckermann J, Toretsky JA, Kenner L, Kovar H, Lee S, Sweet-Cordero EA, Nakamura T, Moriggl R, Delattre O, Üren A. Combined experience of six independent laboratories attempting to create an Ewing sarcoma mouse model. Oncotarget 2018; 8:34141-34163. [PMID: 27191748 PMCID: PMC5470957 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) involves a tumor-specific chromosomal translocation that produces the EWS-FLI1 protein, which is required for the growth of ES cells both in vitro and in vivo. However, an EWS-FLI1-driven transgenic mouse model is not currently available. Here, we present data from six independent laboratories seeking an alternative approach to express EWS-FLI1 in different murine tissues. We used the Runx2, Col1a2.3, Col1a3.6, Prx1, CAG, Nse, NEFL, Dermo1, P0, Sox9 and Osterix promoters to target EWS-FLI1 or Cre expression. Additional approaches included the induction of an endogenous chromosomal translocation, in utero knock-in, and the injection of Cre-expressing adenovirus to induce EWS-FLI1 expression locally in multiple lineages. Most models resulted in embryonic lethality or developmental defects. EWS-FLI1-induced apoptosis, promoter leakiness, the lack of potential cofactors, and the difficulty of expressing EWS-FLI1 in specific sites were considered the primary reasons for the failed attempts to create a transgenic mouse model of ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsion Zewdu Minas
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Didier Surdez
- Genetics and Biology of Cancers Unit, Institut Curie Research Center, PSL Research University, Île-de-France, Paris, France.,INSERM U830, Institut Curie Research Center, Île-de-France, Paris, France
| | | | - Miwa Tanaka
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michelle Howarth
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Hong-Jun Kang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
| | - Jenny Han
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Zhi-Yan Han
- Genetics and Biology of Cancers Unit, Institut Curie Research Center, PSL Research University, Île-de-France, Paris, France.,INSERM U830, Institut Curie Research Center, Île-de-France, Paris, France
| | - Barbara Sax
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara E Kream
- Department of Medicine, and Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Science Center, Farmington, CT, United States of America
| | - Sung-Hyeok Hong
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Haydar Çelik
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Franck Tirode
- Genetics and Biology of Cancers Unit, Institut Curie Research Center, PSL Research University, Île-de-France, Paris, France.,INSERM U830, Institut Curie Research Center, Île-de-France, Paris, France
| | - Jan Tuckermann
- Institute of Comparative Molecular Endocrinology (CME), University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jeffrey A Toretsky
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Lukas Kenner
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria.,Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Pathology of Laboratory Animals (UPLA), University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinrich Kovar
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Children´s Cancer Research Institute, St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sean Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
| | - E Alejandro Sweet-Cordero
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Takuro Nakamura
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Richard Moriggl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria.,Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.,Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Olivier Delattre
- Genetics and Biology of Cancers Unit, Institut Curie Research Center, PSL Research University, Île-de-France, Paris, France.,INSERM U830, Institut Curie Research Center, Île-de-France, Paris, France.,Unité de génétique somatique, Institut Curie, Île-de-France, Paris, France
| | - Aykut Üren
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
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18
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Tanner JM, Bensard C, Wei P, Krah NM, Schell JC, Gardiner J, Schiffman J, Lessnick SL, Rutter J. EWS/FLI is a Master Regulator of Metabolic Reprogramming in Ewing Sarcoma. Mol Cancer Res 2017; 15:1517-1530. [PMID: 28720588 PMCID: PMC5668171 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-17-0182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is a bone malignancy driven by a translocation event resulting in the fusion protein EWS/FLI1 (EF). EF functions as an aberrant and oncogenic transcription factor that misregulates the expression of thousands of genes. Previous work has focused principally on determining important transcriptional targets of EF, as well as characterizing important regulatory partnerships in EF-dependent transcriptional programs. Less is known, however, about EF-dependent metabolic changes or their role in Ewing sarcoma biology. Therefore, the metabolic effects of silencing EF in Ewing sarcoma cells were determined. Metabolomic analyses revealed distinct separation of metabolic profiles in EF-knockdown versus control-knockdown cells. Mitochondrial stress tests demonstrated that knockdown of EF increased respiratory as well as glycolytic functions. Enzymes and metabolites in several metabolic pathways were altered, including de novo serine synthesis and elements of one-carbon metabolism. Furthermore, phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH) was found to be highly expressed in Ewing sarcoma and correlated with worse patient survival. PHGDH knockdown or pharmacologic inhibition in vitro caused impaired proliferation and cell death. Interestingly, PHGDH modulation also led to elevated histone expression and methylation. These studies demonstrate that the translocation-derived fusion protein EF is a master regulator of metabolic reprogramming in Ewing sarcoma, diverting metabolites toward biosynthesis. As such, these data suggest that the metabolic aberrations induced by EF are important contributors to the oncogenic biology of these tumors.Implications: This previously unexplored role of EWS/FLI1-driven metabolic changes expands the understanding of Ewing sarcoma biology, and has potential to significantly inform development of therapeutic strategies. Mol Cancer Res; 15(11); 1517-30. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Tanner
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Claire Bensard
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Peng Wei
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Nathan M Krah
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - John C Schell
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Jamie Gardiner
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Joshua Schiffman
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Stephen L Lessnick
- Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jared Rutter
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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19
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Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive, poorly differentiated neoplasm of solid bone that disproportionally afflicts the young. Despite intensive multi-modal therapy and valiant efforts, 70% of patients with relapsed and metastatic Ewing sarcoma will succumb to their disease. The persistent failure to improve overall survival for this subset of patients highlights the urgent need for rapid translation of novel therapeutic strategies. As Ewing sarcoma is associated with a paucity of mutations in readily targetable signal transduction pathways, targeting the key genetic aberration and master regulator of Ewing sarcoma, the EWS/ETS fusion, remains an important goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen I Pishas
- Cancer Therapeutics Laboratory, Center for Personalized Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Stephen L Lessnick
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Bone Marrow Transplant, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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20
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Ren C, Ren T, Yang K, Wang S, Bao X, Zhang F, Guo W. Inhibition of SOX2 induces cell apoptosis and G1/S arrest in Ewing's sarcoma through the PI3K/Akt pathway. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2016; 35:44. [PMID: 26969300 PMCID: PMC4788902 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-016-0321-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background Ewing’s sarcoma is an aggressive bone and soft tissue tumor with a high incidence in children and adolescents. Due to its high malignancy and poor prognosis, identification of novel biomarkers for intervention therapies is necessary to improve outcome. The EWS/FLI1 fusion gene is a characteristic of Ewing’s sarcoma in most cases. Sex determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2) is a primary target of EWS/FLI1. It has been identified as an oncogene and linked to apoptotic resistance in several types of cancer. However, its role and regulatory mechanisms in Ewing’s sarcoma are largely unknown. Methods We systematically investigated the role of SOX2 in Ewing’s sarcoma cell lines, human tissue samples and xenograft models. The expression of SOX2 was detected in Ewing’s sarcoma samples by WB and IHC. siRNAs were used to knockdown EWS/FLI1 and SOX2 in A673 and RD-ES cell lines with the efficiencies tested by qRT-PCR and WB. The effect of SOX2 on cell cycle and apoptosis was determined by Flow cytometric and TUNEL assays. Akt overexpression was performed with plasmid. The protein expression of the corresponding factors was examined by WB analysis. Inhibition of SOX2 in vivo was performed by siRNA against SOX2 in xenograft models, and the protein expression of the regulators testified in vitro was examined in xenograft tumors by IHC and WB. Results The results confirmed that SOX2 was highly expressed in Ewing’s sarcoma and was the target of EWS/FLI1. SOX2 advanced Ewing’s sarcoma cell survival and proliferation by regulating p21, p27 and cyclin-E to facilitate G1/S phase transition and mediating caspase-3, PARP via both extrinsic (Fas and caspase-8) and intrinsic (caspase-9, Bad, Bcl-2 and XIAP) apoptotic pathways to restrain cell apoptotsis. Additionally, SOX2 regulated the cell-cycle progression and apoptosis via activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The mechanisms were proved both in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions The results demonstrate that SOX2 played a central role in promoting Ewing’s sarcoma cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo with the underlying mechanisms expounded. These findings suggest that SOX2 may serve as a potential biomarker for targeted intervention in Ewing’s sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chongmin Ren
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Tumor, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Ren
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Tumor, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Kang Yang
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Tumor, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Shidong Wang
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Tumor, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing Bao
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Tumor, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Tumor, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Guo
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China. .,Beijing Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Tumor, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Gordon DJ, Motwani M, Pellman D. Modeling the initiation of Ewing sarcoma tumorigenesis in differentiating human embryonic stem cells. Oncogene 2015; 35:3092-102. [PMID: 26455317 PMCID: PMC4829493 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Revised: 07/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic transformation in Ewing sarcoma tumors is driven by the fusion oncogene EWS-FLI1. However, despite the well-established role of EWS-FLI1 in tumor initiation, the development of models of Ewing sarcoma in human cells with defined genetic elements has been challenging. Here, we report a novel approach to model the initiation of Ewing sarcoma tumorigenesis that exploits the developmental and pluripotent potential of human embryonic stem cells. The inducible expression of EWS-FLI1 in embryoid bodies, or collections of differentiating stem cells, generates cells with properties of Ewing sarcoma tumors, including characteristics of transformation. These cell lines exhibit anchorage-independent growth, a lack of contact inhibition and a strong Ewing sarcoma gene expression signature. Furthermore, these cells also demonstrate a requirement for the persistent expression of EWS-FLI1 for cell survival and growth, which is a hallmark Ewing sarcoma tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Gordon
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Motwani
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - D Pellman
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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22
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Giorgi C, Boro A, Rechfeld F, Lopez-Garcia LA, Gierisch ME, Schäfer BW, Niggli FK. PI3K/AKT signaling modulates transcriptional expression of EWS/FLI1 through specificity protein 1. Oncotarget 2015; 6:28895-910. [PMID: 26336820 PMCID: PMC4745699 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is the second most frequent bone cancer in childhood and is characterized by the presence of the balanced translocation t(11;22)(q24;q12) in more than 85% of cases, generating a dysregulated transcription factor EWS/FLI1. This fusion protein is an essential oncogenic component of ES development which is necessary for tumor cell maintenance and represents an attractive therapeutic target. To search for modulators of EWS/FLI1 activity we screened a library of 153 targeted compounds and identified inhibitors of the PI3K pathway to directly modulate EWS/FLI1 transcription. Surprisingly, treatment of four different ES cell lines with BEZ235 resulted in down regulation of EWS/FLI1 mRNA and protein by ~50% with subsequent modulation of target gene expression. Analysis of the EWS/FLI1 promoter region (-2239/+67) using various deletion constructs identified two 14 bp minimal elements as being important for EWS/FLI1 transcription. We identified SP1 as modulator of EWS/FLI1 gene expression and demonstrated direct binding to one of these regions in the EWS/FLI1 promoter by EMSA and ChIP experiments. These results provide the first insights on the transcriptional regulation of EWS/FLI1, an area that has not been investigated so far, and offer an additional molecular explanation for the known sensitivity of ES cell lines to PI3K inhibition.
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MESH Headings
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Binding Sites
- Bone Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Bone Neoplasms/enzymology
- Bone Neoplasms/genetics
- Bone Neoplasms/pathology
- Cell Cycle Checkpoints
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Humans
- Imidazoles/pharmacology
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/metabolism
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/genetics
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/metabolism
- Phosphoinositide-3 Kinase Inhibitors
- Promoter Regions, Genetic
- Protein Binding
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/metabolism
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism
- Quinolines/pharmacology
- RNA Interference
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/genetics
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/metabolism
- Sarcoma, Ewing/drug therapy
- Sarcoma, Ewing/enzymology
- Sarcoma, Ewing/genetics
- Sarcoma, Ewing/pathology
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Sp1 Transcription Factor/genetics
- Sp1 Transcription Factor/metabolism
- Transcription, Genetic/drug effects
- Transfection
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Giorgi
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aleksandar Boro
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Florian Rechfeld
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Laura A. Lopez-Garcia
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maria E. Gierisch
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat W. Schäfer
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Felix K. Niggli
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
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23
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Tang SW, Bilke S, Cao L, Murai J, Sousa FG, Yamade M, Rajapakse V, Varma S, Helman LJ, Khan J, Meltzer PS, Pommier Y. SLFN11 Is a Transcriptional Target of EWS-FLI1 and a Determinant of Drug Response in Ewing Sarcoma. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 21:4184-93. [PMID: 25779942 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-2112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE SLFN11 was identified as a critical determinant of response to DNA-targeted therapies by analyzing gene expression and drug sensitivity of NCI-60 and CCLE datasets. However, how SLFN11 is regulated in cancer cells remained unknown. Ewing sarcoma, which is characterized by the chimeric transcription factor EWS-FLI1, has notably high SLFN11 expression, leading us to investigate whether EWS-FLI1 drives SLFN11 expression and the role of SLFN11 in the drug response of Ewing sarcoma cells. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Binding sites of EWS-FLI1 on the SLFN11 promoter were analyzed by chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and promoter-luciferase reporter analyses. The relationship between SLFN11 and EWS-FLI1 were further examined in EWS-FLI1-knockdown or -overexpressing cells and in clinical tumor samples. RESULTS EWS-FLI1 binds near the transcription start site of SLFN11 promoter and acts as a positive regulator of SLFN11 expression in Ewing sarcoma cells. EWS-FLI1-mediated SLFN11 expression is responsible for high sensitivity of Ewing sarcoma to camptothecin and combinations of PARP inhibitors with temozolomide. Importantly, Ewing sarcoma patients with higher SLFN11 expression showed better tumor-free survival rate. The correlated expression between SLFN11 and FLI1 extends to leukemia, pediatric, colon, breast, and prostate cancers. In addition, expression of other ETS members correlates with SLFN11 in NCI-60 and CCLE datasets, and molecular experiments demonstrate that ETS1 acts as a positive regulator for SLFN11 expression in breast cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results imply the emerging relevance of SLFN11 as an ETS transcription factor response gene and for therapeutic response to topoisomerase I inhibitors and temozolomide-PARP inhibitor combinations in ETS-activated cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai-Wen Tang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sven Bilke
- Genetics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Liang Cao
- Genetics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Junko Murai
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Fabricio G Sousa
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland. CETROGEN, PPGFARM, UFMS, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Mihoko Yamade
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Vinodh Rajapakse
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sudhir Varma
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Lee J Helman
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Javed Khan
- Genetics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Yves Pommier
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland.
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24
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Krook MA, Nicholls LA, Scannell CA, Chugh R, Thomas DG, Lawlor ER. Stress-induced CXCR4 promotes migration and invasion of ewing sarcoma. Mol Cancer Res 2014; 12:953-64. [PMID: 24651452 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-13-0668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Ewing sarcoma is the second most common bone cancer in pediatric patients. Although the primary cause of death in Ewing sarcoma is metastasis, the mechanism underlying tumor spread needs to be elucidated. To this end, the role of the CXCR4/SDF-1a chemokine axis as a mediator of Ewing sarcoma metastasis was investigated. CXCR4 expression status was measured in primary tumor specimens by immunohistochemical staining and in multiple cell lines by quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR and flow cytometry. Migration and invasion of CXCR4-positive Ewing sarcoma cells toward CXCL12/SDF-1a were also determined. Interestingly, while CXCR4 status was disparate among Ewing sarcoma cells, ranging from absent to high-level expression, its expression was found to be highly dynamic and responsive to changes in the microenvironment. In particular, upregulation of CXCR4 occurred in cells that were subjected to growth factor deprivation, hypoxia, and space constraints. This upregulation of CXCR4 was rapidly reversed upon removal of the offending cellular stress conditions. Functionally, CXCR4-positive cells migrated and invaded toward an SDF-1a gradient and these aggressive properties were impeded by both the CXCR4 small-molecule inhibitor AMD3100, and by knockdown of CXCR4. In addition, CXCR4-dependent migration and invasion were inhibited by small-molecule inhibitors of Cdc42 and Rac1, mechanistically implicating these Rho-GTPases as downstream mediators of the CXCR4-dependent phenotype. IMPLICATIONS This study reveals the highly plastic and dynamic nature of CXCR4 expression in Ewing sarcoma and supports a model in which stress-induced upregulation of CXCR4 contributes to tumor metastasis to lung and bone marrow, which express high levels of SDF-1a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie A Krook
- Authors' Affiliations: Departments of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases
| | - Lauren A Nicholls
- Authors' Affiliations: Departments of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases
| | | | | | | | - Elizabeth R Lawlor
- Authors' Affiliations: Departments of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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25
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Zhou Z, Yu L, Kleinerman ES. EWS-FLI-1 regulates the neuronal repressor gene REST, which controls Ewing sarcoma growth and vascular morphology. Cancer 2014; 120:579-88. [PMID: 24415532 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.28555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Revised: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RE1-silencing transcription factor (REST), a neuronal repressor gene, regulates neuronal stem cell differentiation. Ewing sarcoma may originate from neural crest cells. In the current study, the authors investigated whether REST plays a role in the growth of this tumor. METHODS REST expression was determined by Western blot analysis and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in 3 human Ewing sarcoma cell lines and 7 patient tumor samples. The role of REST in tumor growth and tumor vascular morphology was determined using a Ewing sarcoma xenograft model. Immunofluorescence staining, Hypoxyprobe, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assays were performed to investigate the impact of REST on pericyte marker expression, hypoxia, and apoptosis in vivo. RESULTS High levels of REST were expressed in all 3 human Ewing sarcoma cell lines and in 6 of the 7 patient tumor samples. Overexpression of EWS-FLI-1 in human mesenchymal stem cells and human neural progenitor cells was found to increase REST expression. Inhibition of EWS-FLI-1 using small interfering RNA decreased REST expression in human Ewing sarcoma cells. Inhibition of REST did not affect EWS-FLI-1, but significantly suppressed tumor growth in vivo, reduced the tumor vessel pericyte markers α- smooth muscle actin (SMA) and desmin, increased hypoxia and apoptosis in tumor tissues, and decreased the expression of delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4) and Hes1. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of REST suppressed tumor growth, inhibited pericyte marker expression, and increased tumor hypoxia and apoptosis. Because tumor vessel function has been linked to tumor growth and metastases, REST may be a new therapeutic target in patients with Ewing sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Zhou
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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26
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Abstract
The past several decades have revealed certain challenges that are inherent to soft-tissue sarcomas with regards to devising, testing and setting treatment paradigms for such a rare and heterogeneous malignancy. Despite this, significant advances have been made through the efforts of scientists, clinicians and patients alike. We are now entering a molecular era of cancer and current biotechnology is beginning to unravel the pathogenic enigma of these often devastating tumors. As our understanding of these malignancies improves, so does our list of potential treatment options. The impetus now lies with the medical/scientific community to direct translational research and subsequently the development and clinical testing of novel compounds in a fashion that best serves this unique patient population. To do so, we must continue to integrate the lessons of the past with the resources and promise of the future. This review will outline current areas of therapeutic interest in soft-tissue sarcomas with regard to agents that have reached clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- William D Tap
- UCLA Sarcoma Program, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7059, USA.
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27
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Owens C, Abbott LS, Gupta AA. Optimal management of Ewing sarcoma family of tumors: recent developments in systemic therapy. Paediatr Drugs 2013; 15:473-92. [PMID: 23760780 DOI: 10.1007/s40272-013-0037-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The Ewing sarcoma family of tumors (ESFT) is defined by cell surface expression of CD99 and a translocation involving EWS and an ETS partner. Cytotoxic chemotherapy remains the benchmark of first- and second-line therapy, and although the majority of patients with localized disease are cured, almost one third of patients relapse or progress from their disease. Moreover, cure remains elusive in most patients who present with distant metastases. In recent years, the ESFT literature has been dominated by reports of attempts at modulating the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) receptor (IGFR). Unfortunately, three phase II studies examining inhibiting antibodies to IGFR-1 published disappointing results. Whether these results were due to failure to modulate the pathway or other limitations in study design and/or patient selection remain unclear. Other novel strategies currently being investigated in ESFT include tyrosine kinase, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cormac Owens
- The Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 1N6, Canada,
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28
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Stoll G, Surdez D, Tirode F, Laud K, Barillot E, Zinovyev A, Delattre O. Systems biology of Ewing sarcoma: a network model of EWS-FLI1 effect on proliferation and apoptosis. Nucleic Acids Res 2013; 41:8853-71. [PMID: 23935076 PMCID: PMC3799442 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkt678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is the second most frequent pediatric bone tumor. In most of the patients, a chromosomal translocation leads to the expression of the EWS-FLI1 chimeric transcription factor that is the major oncogene in this pathology. Relative genetic simplicity of Ewing sarcoma makes it particularly attractive for studying cancer in a systemic manner. Silencing EWS-FLI1 induces cell cycle alteration and ultimately leads to apoptosis, but the exact molecular mechanisms underlying this phenotype are unclear. In this study, a network linking EWS-FLI1 to cell cycle and apoptosis phenotypes was constructed through an original method of network reconstruction. Transcriptome time-series after EWS-FLI1 silencing were used to identify core modulated genes by an original scoring method based on fitting expression profile dynamics curves. Literature data mining was then used to connect these modulated genes into a network. The validity of a subpart of this network was assessed by siRNA/RT-QPCR experiments on four additional Ewing cell lines and confirmed most of the links. Based on the network and the transcriptome data, CUL1 was identified as a new potential target of EWS-FLI1. Altogether, using an original methodology of data integration, we provide the first version of EWS-FLI1 network model of cell cycle and apoptosis regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gautier Stoll
- Institut Curie, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75248 Paris cedex 05, France, INSERM U900, Bioinformatique, biostatistique et épidémiologie d'un système complexe, Paris, France, Mines ParisTech, Fontainebleau, France, INSERM U830, Unité de Génétique et Biologie des Cancers, Paris, France and Institut Curie, Unité de génétique somatique, Paris, France
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29
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Piganeau M, Ghezraoui H, De Cian A, Guittat L, Tomishima M, Perrouault L, René O, Katibah GE, Zhang L, Holmes MC, Doyon Y, Concordet JP, Giovannangeli C, Jasin M, Brunet E. Cancer translocations in human cells induced by zinc finger and TALE nucleases. Genome Res 2013; 23:1182-93. [PMID: 23568838 PMCID: PMC3698511 DOI: 10.1101/gr.147314.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal translocations are signatures of numerous cancers and lead to expression of fusion genes that act as oncogenes. The wealth of genomic aberrations found in cancer, however, makes it challenging to assign a specific phenotypic change to a specific aberration. In this study, we set out to use genome editing with zinc finger (ZFN) and transcription activator-like effector (TALEN) nucleases to engineer, de novo, translocation-associated oncogenes at cognate endogenous loci in human cells. Using ZFNs and TALENs designed to cut precisely at relevant translocation breakpoints, we induced cancer-relevant t(11;22)(q24;q12) and t(2;5)(p23;q35) translocations found in Ewing sarcoma and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), respectively. We recovered both translocations with high efficiency, resulting in the expression of the EWSR1–FLI1 and NPM1–ALK fusions. Breakpoint junctions recovered after ZFN cleavage in human embryonic stem (ES) cell–derived mesenchymal precursor cells fully recapitulated the genomic characteristics found in tumor cells from Ewing sarcoma patients. This approach with tailored nucleases demonstrates that expression of fusion genes found in cancer cells can be induced from the native promoter, allowing interrogation of both the underlying mechanisms and oncogenic consequences of tumor-related translocations in human cells. With an analogous strategy, the ALCL translocation was reverted in a patient cell line to restore the integrity of the two participating chromosomes, further expanding the repertoire of genomic rearrangements that can be engineered by tailored nucleases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Piganeau
- Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS UMR7196, Inserm U565, 75005 Paris, France
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30
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Molecular detection and targeting of EWSR1 fusion transcripts in soft tissue tumors. Med Oncol 2013; 30:412. [PMID: 23329308 PMCID: PMC3586390 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-012-0412-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 11/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Soft tissue tumors are a heterogeneous group of tumors, traditionally classified according to morphology and histogenesis. Molecular classification divides sarcomas into two main categories: (a) sarcomas with specific genetic alterations and (b) sarcomas showing multiple complex karyotypic abnormalities without any specific pattern. Most chromosomal alterations are represented by translocations which are increasingly detected. The identification of fusion transcripts, in fact, not only support the diagnosis but also provides the basis for the development of new therapeutic strategies aimed at blocking aberrant activity of the chimeric proteins. One of the genes most susceptible to breakage/translocation in soft tissue tumors is represented by Ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1 (EWSR1). This gene has a large number of fusion partners, mainly associated with the pathogenesis of Ewing's sarcoma but with other soft tissue tumors too. In this review, we illustrate the characteristics of this gene/protein, both in normal cellular physiology and in carcinogenesis. We describe the different fusion partners of EWSR1, the molecular pathways in which is involved and the main molecular biology techniques for the identification of fusion transcripts and for their inhibition.
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31
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Liu H, Huang L, Luo J, Chen W, Zhang Z, Liao X, Dai M, Shu Y, Cao K. Prediction and identification of B cell epitopes derived from EWS/FLI-l fusion protein of Ewing's sarcoma. Med Oncol 2012; 29:3421-3430. [PMID: 22562156 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-012-0243-7] [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: 01/11/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
To predict B cell epitope of Ewing's sarcoma EWS/FLI-l fusion protein and to analyze its antigenicity and immunogenicity. Comprehensive algorithms were applied to predict the possible B cell epitopes of EWS/FLI-l fusion protein. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS) analysis were performed to identify the synthesized epitope peptides, ELISA assays and Western blot to detect the antigenicity, and the immunogenicity of epitope peptides. Three B cell epitopes were screened out, and HPLC and MS analysis confirmed all three synthesized epitope peptides were demandable. ELISA assays verified all three epitope peptides could prime intense antigen-antibody reaction and induce ideal antibody titers after immunization to the New Zealand white rabbit. However, Western blot confirmed that antiserum of one of these epitope peptides could not recognize EWS/FLI-1 protein. Two B cell epitopes, PQDGNKPTETSQPQ and DPDEVARRWGQRKS, derived from EWS/FLI-l protein, are identified to have potential antigenicity and immunogenicity.
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MESH Headings
- Algorithms
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Antigens, Neoplasm/chemistry
- Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology
- Blotting, Western
- Cancer Vaccines/immunology
- Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- Epitopes, B-Lymphocyte/chemistry
- Epitopes, B-Lymphocyte/immunology
- Humans
- Mass Spectrometry
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/chemistry
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/immunology
- Protein Structure, Secondary
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/chemistry
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/immunology
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/chemistry
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/immunology
- Rabbits
- Sarcoma, Ewing/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiwen Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, People's Republic of China
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32
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Camões MJ, Paulo P, Ribeiro FR, Barros-Silva JD, Almeida M, Costa VL, Cerveira N, Skotheim RI, Lothe RA, Henrique R, Jerónimo C, Teixeira MR. Potential downstream target genes of aberrant ETS transcription factors are differentially affected in Ewing's sarcoma and prostate carcinoma. PLoS One 2012. [PMID: 23185447 PMCID: PMC3501462 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
FLI1 and ERG, the major ETS transcription factors involved in rearrangements in the Ewing's sarcoma family of tumors (ESFT) and in prostate carcinomas (PCa), respectively, belong to the same subfamily, having 98% sequence identity in the DNA binding domain. We therefore decided to investigate whether the aberrant transcription factors in both malignancies have some common downstream targets. We crossed a publicly available list of all putative EWSR1-FLI1 target genes in ESFT with our microarray expression data on 24 PCa and 6 non-malignant prostate tissues (NPT) and choose four genes among the top-most differentially expressed between PCa with (PCa ERG+) and without (PCa ETS-) ETS fusion genes (HIST1H4L, KCNN2, ECRG4 and LDOC1), as well as four well-validated direct targets of the EWSR1-FLI1 chimeric protein in ESFT (NR0B1, CAV1, IGFBP3 and TGFBR2). Using quantitative expression analysis in 16 ESFT and seven alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas (ARMS), we were able to validate the four genes previously described as direct targets of the EWSR1-FLI1 oncoprotein, showing overexpression of CAV1 and NR0B1 and underexpression of IGFBP3 and TGFBR2 in ESFT as compared to ARMS. Although none of these four genes showed significant expression differences between PCa ERG+ and PCa ETS-, CAV1, IGFBP3 and TGFBR2 were less expressed in PCa in an independent series of 56 PCa and 15 NPT, as also observed for ECRG4 and LDOC1, suggesting a role in prostate carcinogenesis in general. On the other hand, we demonstrate for the first time that both HIST1H4L and KCNN2 are significantly overexpressed in PCa ERG+ and that ERG binds to the promoter of these genes. Conversely, KCNN2 was found underexpressed in ESFT relative to ARMS, suggesting that the EWSR1-ETS oncoprotein may have the opposite effect of ERG rearrangements in PCa. We conclude that aberrant ETS transcription factors modulate target genes differently in ESFT and PCa.
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MESH Headings
- Caveolin 1/genetics
- Caveolin 1/metabolism
- Cell Line, Tumor
- DAX-1 Orphan Nuclear Receptor/genetics
- DAX-1 Orphan Nuclear Receptor/metabolism
- DNA-Binding Proteins
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Humans
- Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3/genetics
- Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3/metabolism
- Male
- Microarray Analysis
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/metabolism
- Prostatic Neoplasms/genetics
- Prostatic Neoplasms/metabolism
- Prostatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/metabolism
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-ets/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-ets/metabolism
- Receptor, Transforming Growth Factor-beta Type II
- Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta/genetics
- Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta/metabolism
- Sarcoma, Ewing/genetics
- Sarcoma, Ewing/metabolism
- Sarcoma, Ewing/pathology
- Trans-Activators/genetics
- Trans-Activators/metabolism
- Transcriptional Regulator ERG
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria J. Camões
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Genetics Group, Research Centre of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Paulo
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Genetics Group, Research Centre of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Franclim R. Ribeiro
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Genetics Group, Research Centre of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João D. Barros-Silva
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Genetics Group, Research Centre of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Almeida
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Centre of The Portuguese Oncology Institute, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera L. Costa
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Centre of The Portuguese Oncology Institute, Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Cerveira
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Genetics Group, Research Centre of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rolf I. Skotheim
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Institute for Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ragnhild A. Lothe
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Institute for Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Centre of The Portuguese Oncology Institute, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Centre of The Portuguese Oncology Institute, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel R. Teixeira
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Genetics Group, Research Centre of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- * E-mail:
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33
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Simmons O, Maples PB, Senzer N, Nemunaitis J. Ewing's Sarcoma: Development of RNA Interference-Based Therapy for Advanced Disease. ISRN ONCOLOGY 2012; 2012:247657. [PMID: 22523703 PMCID: PMC3317005 DOI: 10.5402/2012/247657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Accepted: 12/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma tumors are associated with chromosomal translocation between the EWS gene and the ETS transcription factor gene. These unique target sequences provide opportunity for RNA interference(i)-based therapy. A summary of RNAi mechanism and therapeutically designed products including siRNA, shRNA and bi-shRNA are described. Comparison is made between each of these approaches. Systemic RNAi-based therapy, however, requires protected delivery to the Ewing's sarcoma tumor site for activity. Delivery systems which have been most effective in preclinical and clinical testing are reviewed, followed by preclinical assessment of various silencing strategies with demonstration of effectiveness to EWS/FLI-1 target sequences. It is concluded that RNAi-based therapeutics may have testable and achievable activity in management of Ewing's sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Neil Senzer
- Gradalis, Inc., Dallas, TX 75201, USA
- Mary Crowley Cancer Research Centers, Dallas, TX 75201, USA
- Texas Oncology, PA, Dallas, TX 75251, USA
- Medical City Dallas Hospital, Dallas, TX 75230, USA
| | - John Nemunaitis
- Gradalis, Inc., Dallas, TX 75201, USA
- Mary Crowley Cancer Research Centers, Dallas, TX 75201, USA
- Texas Oncology, PA, Dallas, TX 75251, USA
- Medical City Dallas Hospital, Dallas, TX 75230, USA
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34
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Huang L, Nakai Y, Kuwahara I, Matsumoto K. PRAS40 is a functionally critical target for EWS repression in Ewing sarcoma. Cancer Res 2012; 72:1260-9. [PMID: 22241085 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-11-2254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma family tumors (ESFT) are highly aggressive and highly metastatic tumors caused by a chromosomal fusion between the Ewing sarcoma protein (EWS) with the transcription factor FLI-1. However, expression of the EWS/FLI-1 chimeric oncogene by itself is insufficient for carcinogenesis, suggesting that additional events are required. Here, we report the identification of the Akt substrate PRAS40 as an EWS target gene. EWS negatively regulates PRAS40 expression by binding the 3' untranslated region in PRAS40 mRNA. ESFT cell proliferation was suppressed by treatment with an Akt inhibitor, and ESFT cell proliferation and metastatic growth were suppressed by siRNA-mediated PRAS40 knockdown. Furthermore, PRAS40 knockdown was sufficient to reverse an increased cell proliferation elicited by EWS knockdown. In support of a pathologic role for PRAS40 elevation in EFST, we documented inverse protein levels of EWS and PRAS40 in ESFT cells. Together, our findings suggest that PRAS40 promotes the development of ESFT and might therefore represent a novel therapeutic target in this aggressive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Huang
- Molecular Entomology Laboratory, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama, Japan
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Tsokos M, Alaggio RD, Dehner LP, Dickman PS. Ewing sarcoma/peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor and related tumors. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2012; 15:108-26. [PMID: 22420726 PMCID: PMC6993191 DOI: 10.2350/11-08-1078-pb.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma/peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (EWS/pPNET) and other tumors with EWS gene rearrangements encompass a malignant and intermediate neoplasm with a broad anatomic distribution and a wide age range but a predilection for soft tissue in children, adolescents, and young adults. The overlapping histologic, immunohistochemical and cytogenetic and molecular genetic features create diagnostic challenges despite significant clinical and prognostic differences. Ewing sarcoma is the 3rd most common sarcoma in children and adolescents, and desmoplastic small round cell tumor is a rare neoplasm that occurs more often in older children, adolescents, and young adults. Pathologic examination is complemented by immunohistochemistry, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics. This article reviews the clinicopathologic features of EWS/pPNET and desmoplastic small round cell tumor in the spectrum of tumors with EWS gene rearrangements. Other tumors with different histopathologic features and an EWS gene rearrangement are discussed elsewhere in this volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tsokos
- Department of Pathology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rita D. Alaggio
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Louis P. Dehner
- Department of Pathology, Lauren V. Ackerman Division of Surgical Pathology, Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Paul S. Dickman
- Department of Pathology, Phoenix Children’s Hospital and University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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Herrero-Martin D, Fourtouna A, Niedan S, Riedmann LT, Schwentner R, Aryee DNT. Factors Affecting EWS-FLI1 Activity in Ewing's Sarcoma. Sarcoma 2011; 2011:352580. [PMID: 22135504 PMCID: PMC3216314 DOI: 10.1155/2011/352580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Revised: 08/31/2011] [Accepted: 08/31/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma family tumors (ESFT) are characterized by specific chromosomal translocations, which give rise to EWS-ETS chimeric proteins. These aberrant transcription factors are the main pathogenic drivers of ESFT. Elucidation of the factors influencing EWS-ETS expression and/or activity will guide the development of novel therapeutic agents against this fatal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Herrero-Martin
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Argyro Fourtouna
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Stephan Niedan
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Lucia T. Riedmann
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Raphaela Schwentner
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dave N. T. Aryee
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Lessnick SL, Ladanyi M. Molecular pathogenesis of Ewing sarcoma: new therapeutic and transcriptional targets. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 7:145-59. [PMID: 21942527 PMCID: PMC3555146 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-011110-130237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Approximately one-third of sarcomas contain specific translocations. Ewing sarcoma is the prototypical member of this group of sarcomas; it was the first to be recognized pathologically as a singular entity and to have its signature translocation defined cytogenetically, which led to the identification of its key driver alteration, the EWS-FLI1 gene fusion that encodes this aberrant, chimeric transcription factor. We review recent progress in selected areas of Ewing sarcoma research, including the application of genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses, to provide a comprehensive view of the EWS-FLI1 target gene repertoire, the identification of EWS-FLI1 target genes that may also point to therapeutically targetable pathways, and data from model systems as they relate to the elusive cell of origin of Ewing sarcoma and its possible similarities to mesenchymal stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen L. Lessnick
- Center for Children's Cancer Research at Huntsman Cancer Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, and Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112;
| | - Marc Ladanyi
- Molecular Diagnostics Service, Department of Pathology, and Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065;
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Sankar S, Lessnick SL. Promiscuous partnerships in Ewing's sarcoma. Cancer Genet 2011; 204:351-65. [PMID: 21872822 PMCID: PMC3164520 DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergen.2011.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2011] [Revised: 07/18/2011] [Accepted: 07/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma is a highly aggressive bone and soft tissue tumor of children and young adults. At the molecular genetic level Ewing's sarcoma is characterized by a balanced reciprocal translocation, t(11;22)(q24;q12), which encodes an oncogenic fusion protein and transcription factor EWS/FLI. This tumor-specific chimeric fusion retains the amino terminus of EWS, a member of the TET (TLS/EWS/TAF15) family of RNA-binding proteins, and the carboxy terminus of FLI, a member of the ETS family of transcription factors. In addition to EWS/FLI, variant translocation fusions belonging to the TET/ETS family have been identified in Ewing's sarcoma. These studies solidified the importance of TET/ETS fusions in the pathogenesis of Ewing's sarcoma and have since been used as diagnostic markers for the disease. EWS fusions with non-ETS transcription factor family members have been described in sarcomas that are clearly distinct from Ewing's sarcoma. However, in recent years there have been reports of rare fusions in "Ewing's-like tumors" that harbor the amino-terminus of EWS fused to the carboxy-terminal DNA or chromatin-interacting domains contributed by non-ETS proteins. This review aims to summarize the growing list of fusion oncogenes that characterize Ewing's sarcoma and Ewing's-like tumors and highlights important questions that need to be answered to further support the existing concept that Ewing's sarcoma is strictly a "TET/ETS" fusion-driven malignancy. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of action of the various different fusion oncogenes will provide better insights into the biology underlying this rare but important solid tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savita Sankar
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA 84112
| | - Stephen L. Lessnick
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA 84112
- Center for Children’s Cancer Research at Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA 84112
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
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The role of chemokine receptor CXCR4 in the biologic behavior of human soft tissue sarcoma. Sarcoma 2010; 2011:593708. [PMID: 21234386 PMCID: PMC3017902 DOI: 10.1155/2011/593708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2010] [Accepted: 11/18/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular basis of sarcoma remains poorly understood. However, recent studies have begun to uncover some of the molecular pathways involved in sarcomagenesis. The chemokine receptor CXCR4 has been implicated in sarcoma development and has been found to be a prognostic marker for poor clinical outcome. There is growing evidence that overexpression of CXCR4 plays a significant role in development of metastatic disease, especially in directing tumor cells towards the preferential sites of metastases in sarcoma, lung and bone. Although further investigation is necessary to validate these pathways, there is potential for clinical application, particularly in the use of pharmacologic inhibitors of CXCR4 as means of preventing sarcoma metastasis.
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Cell Cycle Deregulation in Ewing's Sarcoma Pathogenesis. Sarcoma 2010; 2011:598704. [PMID: 21052502 PMCID: PMC2968116 DOI: 10.1155/2011/598704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2010] [Accepted: 10/07/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma is a highly aggressive pediatric tumor of bone that usually contains the characteristic chromosomal translocation t(11;22)(q24;q12). This translocation encodes the oncogenic fusion protein EWS/FLI, which acts as an aberrant transcription factor to deregulate target genes necessary for oncogenesis. One key feature of oncogenic transformation is dysregulation of cell cycle control. It is therefore likely that EWS/FLI and other cooperating mutations in Ewing's sarcoma modulate the cell cycle to facilitate tumorigenesis. This paper will summarize current published data associated with deregulation of the cell cycle in Ewing's sarcoma and highlight important questions that remain to be answered.
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Takigami I, Ohno T, Kitade Y, Hara A, Nagano A, Kawai G, Saitou M, Matsuhashi A, Yamada K, Shimizu K. Synthetic siRNA targeting the breakpoint of EWS/Fli-1 inhibits growth of Ewing sarcoma xenografts in a mouse model. Int J Cancer 2010; 128:216-26. [DOI: 10.1002/ijc.25564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Yang L, Hu HM, Zielinska-Kwiatkowska A, Chansky HA. FOXO1 is a direct target of EWS-Fli1 oncogenic fusion protein in Ewing's sarcoma cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2010; 402:129-34. [PMID: 20933505 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2010.09.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2010] [Accepted: 09/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Ewing's family tumors are characterized by a specific t(11;22) chromosomal translocation that results in the formation of EWS-Fli1 oncogenic fusion protein. To investigate the effects of EWS-Fli1 on gene expression, we carried out DNA microarray analysis after specific knockdown of EWS-Fli1 through transfection of synthetic siRNAs. EWS-Fli1 knockdown increased expression of genes such as DKK1 and p57 that are known to be repressed by EWS-Fli1 fusion protein. Among other potential EWS-Fli1 targets identified by our microarray analysis, we have focused on the FOXO1 gene since it encodes a potential tumor suppressor and has not been previously reported in Ewing's cells. To better understand how EWS-Fli1 affects FOXO1 expression, we have established a doxycycline-inducible siRNA system to achieve stable and reversible knockdown of EWS-Fli1 in Ewing's sarcoma cells. Here we show that FOXO1 expression in Ewing's cells has an inverse relationship with EWS-Fli1 protein level, and FOXO1 promoter activity is increased after doxycycline-induced EWS-Fli1 knockdown. In addition, we have found that direct binding of EWS-Fli1 to FOXO1 promoter is attenuated after doxycycline-induced siRNA knockdown of the fusion protein. Together, these results suggest that suppression of FOXO1 function by EWS-Fli1 fusion protein may contribute to cellular transformation in Ewing's family tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States.
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Toomey EC, Schiffman JD, Lessnick SL. Recent advances in the molecular pathogenesis of Ewing's sarcoma. Oncogene 2010; 29:4504-16. [PMID: 20543858 PMCID: PMC3555143 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2010] [Revised: 04/23/2010] [Accepted: 04/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Tumor development is a complex process resulting from interplay between mutations in oncogenes and tumor suppressors, host susceptibility factors, and cellular context. Great advances have been made by studying rare tumors with unique clinical, genetic, or molecular features. Ewing's sarcoma serves as an excellent paradigm for understanding tumorigenesis because it exhibits some very useful and important characteristics. For example, nearly all cases of Ewing's sarcoma contain the (11;22)(q24;q12) chromosomal translocation that encodes the EWS/FLI oncoprotein. Besides the t(11;22), however, many cases have otherwise simple karyotypes with no other demonstrable abnormalities. Furthermore, it seems that an underlying genetic susceptibility to Ewing's sarcoma, if it exists, must be rare. These two features suggest that EWS/FLI is the primary mutation that drives the development of this tumor. Finally, Ewing's sarcoma is an aggressive tumor that requires aggressive treatment. Thus, improved understanding of the pathogenesis of this tumor will not only be of academic interest, but may also lead to new therapeutic approaches for individuals afflicted with this disease. The purpose of this review is to highlight recent advances in understanding the molecular pathogenesis of Ewing's sarcoma, while considering the questions surrounding this disease that still remain and how this knowledge may be applied to developing new treatments for patients with this highly aggressive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C. Toomey
- Department of Oncological Sciences and Center for Children's Cancer Research at Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Joshua D. Schiffman
- Department of Oncological Sciences and Center for Children's Cancer Research at Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Stephen L. Lessnick
- Department of Oncological Sciences and Center for Children's Cancer Research at Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
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Bennani-Baiti IM, Cooper A, Lawlor ER, Kauer M, Ban J, Aryee DNT, Kovar H. Intercohort gene expression co-analysis reveals chemokine receptors as prognostic indicators in Ewing's sarcoma. Clin Cancer Res 2010; 16:3769-78. [PMID: 20525755 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-10-0558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We report a novel analytic method, named intercohort co-analysis or Ican, which aids in the discovery of genes with predictive value for the progression or outcome of diseases from small-size cohorts. We tested this premise in Ewing's sarcoma (ES), a highly metastatic cancer of bone and soft tissues that lacks validated molecular metastasis and prognostic indicators. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN To uncover genes significantly expressed in ES patient subsets, we first determined a nonarbitrary gene expression significance cutoff based on expression levels in validated expressing and nonexpressing tissues. We next searched for genes that were consistently significantly expressed in several ES cohort and cell line datasets. Significantly expressed genes were independently validated by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR in an additional ES cohort. RESULTS Analysis of ES cohorts revealed marked intercohort gene expression variability. After filtering out the intercohort variability, CXCR4 and CXCR7 were found to be consistently associated with specific ES subsets. Pairwise analyses showed CXCR4 to correlate with ES metastases, and CXCR4 and CXCR7 to patient survival, but not with several other clinicopathological variables. CONCLUSION Ican is a powerful novel method to identifying genes consistently associated with particular disease states in cancers for which large cohorts are not available, currently the case of most cancers. We report for the first time that high CXCR4 expression preferentially associates with metastatic ES, and that of CXCR7 with poor patient survival.
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Abstract
Progress in the treatment of Ewing's sarcoma, the second most common bone tumour in children and adolescents, has improved survival from about 10% in the period before chemotherapy was introduced to about 75% today for patients with localised tumours. However, patients with metastases still fare badly, and the therapy carries short-term and long-term toxicities. Multidisciplinary care is indispensable for these patients. Molecular techniques and new imaging modalities are affecting the diagnosis and classification of patients with Ewing's sarcoma. Cooperative group studies have led to chemotherapy regimens using the same drugs (vincristine, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, and etoposide), although the exact regimens differ in Europe and North America. The EWS-ETS family of gene fusions and their downstream effects in Ewing's sarcomas provide opportunities for new approaches to treatment. These include the inhibition of the fusion gene or its protein product, and pathways related to IGF1 and mTOR. Inhibition of tyrosine kinases, exploitation of non-apoptotic cell death, and interference with angiogenesis are promising new approaches. With many new approaches and relatively few patients, it will be challenging to integrate new and established treatments through clinical trials.
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Sohn EJ, Li H, Reidy K, Beers LF, Christensen BL, Lee SB. EWS/FLI1 oncogene activates caspase 3 transcription and triggers apoptosis in vivo. Cancer Res 2010; 70:1154-63. [PMID: 20103643 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-09-1993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
EWS/FLI1 is a fusion gene product generated by a chromosomal translocation t(11;22)(q24;q12) found in Ewing sarcoma. EWS/FLI1 encodes an aberrant transcription factor with oncogenic properties in vitro. Paradoxically, expression of EWS/FLI1 in nontransformed primary cells results in apoptosis, but the exact mechanism remains unclear. In primary mouse embryonic fibroblasts derived from conditional EWS/FLI1 knock-in embryos, expression of EWS/FLI1 resulted in apoptosis with concomitant increase in the endogenous Caspase 3 (Casp3) mRNA. EWS/FLI1 directly bound and activated the CASP3 promoter, whereas small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of EWS/FLI1 led to a marked decrease in CASP3 transcripts in Ewing sarcoma cell lines. Ectopic expression of EWS/FLI1 resulted in an increased expression of CASP3 protein in heterologous cell lines. Importantly, expression of EWS/FLI1 in the mouse triggered an early onset of apoptosis in kidneys and acute lethality. These findings suggest that EWS/FLI1 induces apoptosis, at least partially, through the activation of CASP3 and show the cell context-dependent roles of EWS/FLI1 in apoptosis and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Jung Sohn
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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Vers une thérapeutique ciblée du sarcome d’Ewing par une stratégie antisens. ONCOLOGIE 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10269-009-1826-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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López-Fraga M, Martínez T, Jiménez A. RNA interference technologies and therapeutics: from basic research to products. BioDrugs 2009; 23:305-32. [PMID: 19754220 PMCID: PMC7099360 DOI: 10.2165/11318190-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a natural cellular process that regulates gene expression by a highly precise mechanism of sequence-directed gene silencing at the stage of translation by degrading specific messenger RNAs or blocking translation. In recent years, the use of RNAi for therapeutic applications has gained considerable momentum. It has been suggested that most of the novel disease-associated targets that have been identified are not ‘druggable’ with conventional approaches. However, any disease-causing gene and any cell type or tissue can potentially be targeted with RNAi. This review focuses on the current knowledge of RNAi mechanisms and the safety issues associated with its potential use in a therapeutic setting. Some of the most important aspects to consider when working towards the application of RNAi-based products in a clinical setting have been related to achieving high efficacies and enhanced stability profiles through a careful design of the nucleic acid sequence and the introduction of chemical modifications, but most of all, to developing improved delivery systems, both viral and non-viral. These new delivery systems allow for these products to reach the desired target cells, tissues or organs in a highly specific manner and after administration of the lowest possible doses. Various routes of application and target locations are currently being addressed in order to develop effective delivery systems for different targets and pathologies, including infectious pathologies, genetic pathologies and diseases associated with dysregulation of endogenous microRNAs. As with any new technology, several challenges and important aspects to be considered have risen on the road to clinical intervention, e.g. correct design of preclinical toxicology studies, regulatory concerns, and intellectual property protection. The main advantages related to the use of RNAi-based products in a clinical setting, and the latest clinical and preclinical studies using these compounds, are reviewed.
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Tan AY, Manley JL. The TET family of proteins: functions and roles in disease. J Mol Cell Biol 2009; 1:82-92. [PMID: 19783543 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjp025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Translocated in liposarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma and TATA-binding protein-associated factor 15 constitute an interesting and important family of proteins known as the TET proteins. The proteins function in several aspects of cell growth control, including multiple different steps in gene expression, and they are also found mutated in a number of specific diseases. For example, all contain domains for binding nucleic acids and have been shown to function in both RNA polymerase II-mediated transcription and pre-mRNA splicing, possibly connecting these two processes. Chromosomal translocations in human sarcomas result in a fusion of the amino terminus of these proteins, which contains a transcription activation domain, to the DNA-binding domain of a transcription factor. Although the fusion proteins have been characterized in a clinical environment, the function of the cognate full-length protein in normal cells is a more recent topic of study. The first part of this review will describe the TET proteins, followed by detailed descriptions of their multiple roles in cells. The final sections will examine changes that occur in gene regulation in cells expressing the fusion proteins. The clinical implications and treatment of sarcomas will not be addressed but have recently been reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelene Y Tan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
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