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Ditonno F, Franco A, Manfredi C, Fasanella D, Abate M, La Rocca R, Crocerossa F, Iossa V, Falagario UG, Cirillo L, Altieri VM, Di Mauro E, Crocetto F, Barone B, Cilio S, Pandolfo SD, Aveta A, Mirone V, Franzese CA, Arcaniolo D, Napolitano L. The Role of miRNA in Testicular Cancer: Current Insights and Future Perspectives. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2033. [PMID: 38004082 PMCID: PMC10672751 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59112033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Despite advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of testicular germ cell tumours (TGTCs), challenges persist in identifying reliable biomarkers for early detection and precise disease management. This narrative review addresses the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) as potential diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets in the treatment of TGCTs. Materials and Methods: Three databases (PubMed®, Web of Science™, and Scopus®) were queried for studies investigating the utility of miRNA as diagnostic tools, assessing their prognostic significance, and evaluating their potential to guide TGCT treatment. Different combinations of the following keywords were used, according to a free-text protocol: "miRNA", "non-coding RNA", "small RNA", "Testicular Cancer", "seminomatous testicular germ cell", "non-seminomatous testicular germ cell". Results: The potential of miRNAs as possible biomarkers for a non-invasive diagnosis of TGCT is appealing. Their integration into the diagnostic pathway for TGCT patients holds the potential to enhance the discriminative power of conventional serum tumour markers (STMs) and could expedite early diagnosis, given that miRNA overexpression was observed in 50% of GCNIS cases. Among miRNAs, miR-371a-3p stands out with the most promising evidence, suggesting its relevance in the primary diagnosis of TGCT, particularly when conventional STMs offer limited value. Indeed, it demonstrated high specificity (90-99%) and sensitivity (84-89%), with good positive predictive value (97.2%) and negative predictive value (82.7%). Furthermore, a direct relationship between miRNA concentration, disease burden, and treatment response exists, regardless of disease stages. The initial evidence of miRNA decrease in response to surgical treatment and systemic chemotherapy has been further supported by more recent results suggesting the potential utility of this tool not only in evaluating treatment response but also in monitoring residual disease and predicting disease relapse. Conclusions: MiRNAs could represent a reliable tool for accurate diagnosis and disease monitoring in the treatment of TGCT, providing more precise tools for early detection and treatment stratification. Nevertheless, well-designed clinical trials and comprehensive long-term data are needed to ensure their translation into effective clinical tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ditonno
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612-3833, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Franco
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612-3833, USA
- Department of Urology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, La Sapienza University, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Celeste Manfredi
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612-3833, USA
- Urology Unit, Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University, 81100 Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Fasanella
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Marco Abate
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto La Rocca
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Crocerossa
- Department of Urology, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Iossa
- Department of Andrology, "Antonio Cardarelli" Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ugo Giovanni Falagario
- Department of Urology and Organ Transplantation, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Cirillo
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Maria Altieri
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "V. Tiberio", University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
- Department of Urology, Humanitas Gavazzeni, 24125 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Ernesto Di Mauro
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Crocetto
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Barone
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Simone Cilio
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Savio Domenico Pandolfo
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Achille Aveta
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mirone
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Davide Arcaniolo
- Urology Unit, Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University, 81100 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Napolitano
- Urology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
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Lobo J, Acosta AM, Netto GJ. Molecular Biomarkers With Potential Clinical Application in Testicular Cancer. Mod Pathol 2023; 36:100307. [PMID: 37611872 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2023.100307] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) and sex cord-stromal tumors (SCSTs) are the most common testicular neoplasms. The morphologic spectrum of such tumors is wide, with several histologic subtypes within each group. Testicular tumors often represent a diagnostic challenge, requiring proper identification of their biologic potential for accurate risk stratification and selection of therapy. In the era of precision medicine, molecular biomarkers are increasingly assuming a critical role in the management of patients with cancer. Given the overall rarity of certain types of testicular neoplasms, progress in biomarker research has been relatively slow. However, in recent years, we have witnessed a multitude of important contributions, including both tissue-based and liquid biopsy biomarkers, stemming from important discoveries of tumor pathobiology, accurate histopathological analysis, multi-institutional studies, and genome-wide molecular analyses of specific tumor subtypes. In this review, we provide an overview of the progress in molecular biomarkers of TGCTs and SCSTs, focusing on those with greatest potential for clinical application. In TGCTs, developmental biology has been the key to understanding these tumors and identifying clinically useful biomarkers (from classical serum tumor markers to pluripotency factors and circulating microRNAs of the 371-373 cluster). For SCSTs, studies have focused on tissue biomarkers only, and genome-wide investigations have recently contributed to a better understanding of rare phenotypes and the aggressive biological behavior of some tumors within this nosologic category. Several new biomarkers are moving toward clinical implementation in this field. Therefore, the practicing pathologist should be aware of their strengths and limitations in order to utilize them properly and maximize their clinical benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lobo
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (P.CCC), Porto, Portugal; Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca & RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Porto, Portugal; Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Andres M Acosta
- Department of Pathology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - George J Netto
- Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.
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3
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Wang B, Wang X, Zheng X, Han Y, Du X. JSCSNCP-LMA: a method for predicting the association of lncRNA-miRNA. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17030. [PMID: 36220862 PMCID: PMC9552706 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21243-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have long been considered the "white elephant" on the genome because they lack the ability to encode proteins. However, in recent years, more and more biological experiments and clinical reports have proved that ncRNAs account for a large proportion in organisms. At the same time, they play a decisive role in the biological processes such as gene expression and cell growth and development. Recently, it has been found that short sequence non-coding RNA(miRNA) and long sequence non-coding RNA(lncRNA) can regulate each other, which plays an important role in various complex human diseases. In this paper, we used a new method (JSCSNCP-LMA) to predict lncRNA-miRNA with unknown associations. This method combined Jaccard similarity algorithm, self-tuning spectral clustering similarity algorithm, cosine similarity algorithm and known lncRNA-miRNA association networks, and used the consistency projection to complete the final prediction. The results showed that the AUC values of JSCSNCP-LMA in fivefold cross validation (fivefold CV) and leave-one-out cross validation (LOOCV) were 0.9145 and 0.9268, respectively. Compared with other models, we have successfully proved its superiority and good extensibility. Meanwhile, the model also used three different lncRNA-miRNA datasets in the fivefold CV experiment and obtained good results with AUC values of 0.9145, 0.9662 and 0.9505, respectively. Therefore, JSCSNCP-LMA will help to predict the associations between lncRNA and miRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wang
- grid.412616.60000 0001 0002 2355College of Computer and Control Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, 161006 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinwei Wang
- grid.412616.60000 0001 0002 2355College of Computer and Control Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, 161006 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaodong Zheng
- grid.412616.60000 0001 0002 2355College of Computer and Control Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, 161006 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Han
- grid.412616.60000 0001 0002 2355College of Computer and Control Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, 161006 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxin Du
- grid.412616.60000 0001 0002 2355College of Computer and Control Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, 161006 People’s Republic of China
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4
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Sequeira JP, Lobo J, Constâncio V, Brito-Rocha T, Carvalho-Maia C, Braga I, Maurício J, Henrique R, Jerónimo C. DigiMir Test: Establishing a Novel Pipeline for MiR-371a Quantification Using Droplet Digital PCR in Liquid Biopsies From Testicular Germ Cell Tumor Patients. Front Oncol 2022; 12:876732. [PMID: 35756620 PMCID: PMC9226402 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.876732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most common cancers in young-adult male patients aged between 15 and 39 years. Hsa-miR-371a-3p is currently the most reliable biomarker for diagnosis and monitoring of these patients non-invasively in liquid biopsies, and it is destined to be introduced in the clinic due to improved performance compared to the classical serum tumor markers available. Current studies have focused on real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) protocols for its determination; still, some challenges remain, since these protocols often require preamplification steps (costly and time-consuming), and report relative levels normalized to a housekeeping microRNA, not always performed the same way. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) shows the promise to overcome these challenges, skipping normalization and preamplifications, but has hardly been explored in the field of TGCTs. In this work, we provide a report of a ddPCR-based pipeline for the quantification of hsa-miR-371a-3p (the DigiMir pipeline) and compare it with two RT-qPCR protocols. A total of 107 plasma samples were investigated in the validation setting. The DigiMir pipeline detected TGCTs in a manner representative of tumor burden, with a sensitivity and specificity of 94% and 100%, respectively, outperforming the combined sensitivity of all three classical serum tumor markers (61.5%). Therefore, in this proof-of-concept investigation, we have shown that the DigiMir pipeline constitutes a new promising methodology to accurately report hsa-miR-371a-3p in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Pedro Sequeira
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Master in Oncology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera Constâncio
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Doctoral Programme in Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Tiago Brito-Rocha
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Master in Oncology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Carina Carvalho-Maia
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal
| | - Isaac Braga
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Urology and Urology Clinics, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Joaquina Maurício
- Department of Medical Oncology and Urology Clinics, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
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5
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Liang W, Ke J. Remifentanil reduces the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells via lncRNA NBR2/miR‐650/TIMP3 axis. Int J Exp Pathol 2022; 103:44-53. [PMID: 35156240 PMCID: PMC8961499 DOI: 10.1111/iep.12429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cell hyperproliferation and metastasis are major causes of cancer-associated mortality. Although the use of anaesthetics and analgesics may affect cancer cell metastasis, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms of action of remifentanil on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. Cell viability was measured by the 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2-h-tetrazolium bromide assay. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were performed to assess the expression levels of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) neighbour of BRCA1 gene 2 (NBR2), microRNA (miR)-650 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP3) in HCC cells. Wound healing and transwell assays were employed to evaluate the migration and invasion of HCC cells respectively. The target relationships between miR-650 and NBR2/TIMP3 were confirmed by dual luciferase reporter assay. Remifentanil reduced the viability of HCC cells in a dose-dependent manner. Remifentanil treatment significantly increased the expression of lncRNA NBR2 and TIMP3, and repressed miR-650 expression in HCC cells. Decreased lncRNA NBR2 or increased miR-650 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of remifentanil-treated HCC cells. LncRNA NBR2 targeted miR-650, and miR-650 further targeted TIMP3. Moreover, miR-650 down-regulation or TIMP3 up-regulation reversed the effects of lncRNA NBR2 knockdown that caused an enhancement of cell viability, migration and invasiveness in remifentanil-treated HCC cells. Thus remifentanil reduces the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells via the lncRNA NBR2/miR-650/TIMP3 axis in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liang
- Department of Anesthesia Wuhan Fourth Hospital Puai Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Jinyuan Ke
- Department of Anesthesia Wuhan Fourth Hospital Puai Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
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6
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Ahmadi H, Jang TL, Daneshmand S, Ghodoussipour S. Editorial by Bendu K. Konneh, John T. Lafin and Aditya Bagrodia on pp. 341-342 of this issue: MicroRNA-371a-3p as a blood-based biomarker in testis cancer. Asian J Urol 2021; 8:400-406. [PMID: 34765447 PMCID: PMC8566368 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajur.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs involved in the regulation of mRNA transcription and translation, and possess all desirable features of an ideal tumor marker. Of almost 31 different miRNA clusters identified in germ cell tumors (GCTs), miR-371a-3p has shown exceptionally high sensitivity and specificity for both seminomatous and nonseminomatous GCTs. It is easily obtainable and correlates well with tumor burden. Recent multi-institutional prospective studies have shown promising test characteristics for miR-371a-3p as a diagnostic blood-based biomarker for GCT prior to orchiectomy including 80%-100% sensitivity and 90%-100% specificity. This accuracy may address other unmet needs in the management of patients with GCT. Early studies have suggested the utility of miR-371a-3p in detecting occult nodal metastasis in high-risk clinical stage I and early stage II disease. Ongoing clinical trials including SWOG 1823 and AGCT1531 are specifically designed to confirm the utility of miR-371a-3p in clinical stage I GCT. Despite its strong association with viable GCT after treatment with chemotherapy, miR-371a-3p does not seem to accurately predict the presence of teratoma in residual lesions. Also, standardization of extraction and interpretation methods is a necessary step to assure uniform results across different institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Ahmadi
- Department of Urology, University of Southern California/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Thomas L Jang
- Section of Urologic Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Siamak Daneshmand
- Department of Urology, University of Southern California/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Saum Ghodoussipour
- Section of Urologic Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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Hulsker CCC, el Mansori I, Fiocco M, Zsiros J, Wijnen MHW, Looijenga LHJ, Mavinkurve-Groothuis AMC, van der Steeg AFW. Treatment and Survival of Malignant Extracranial Germ Cell Tumours in the Paediatric Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143561. [PMID: 34298776 PMCID: PMC8305293 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to explore overall survival (OS) and event free survival (EFS) rates internationally over the past two decades and to define specific subgroups with inferior outcomes which may demand different treatment strategies. METHODS The search focused on malignant extracranial germ cell tumours (GCTs) in the paediatric population. The initial database search identified 12,556 articles; 32 articles were finally included in this review, comprising a total of 5095 patients. RESULTS The studies were heterogeneous, varying from single institution reports to large prospective trials. Older studies, describing eras where non-platinum-based chemotherapy regimens were used, showed clearly worse outcomes. Survival for stage I-II gonadal disease is excellent. On the other hand, patients with an initial alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) > 10,000 ng/mL or kU/L, age > 11 years and stage IV disease confer a survival disadvantage. For testicular disease in particular, lymphovascular invasion and certain histopathological subtypes, such as embryonal carcinoma (EC) and mixed malignant GCTs, survival is poorer. Survival data for sacrococcygeal and mediastinal GCTs show a heterogeneous distribution across studies in this review, independent of year of publication. Patients > 12 years presenting with a mediastinal GCT pose a subpopulation which fares worse than GCTs in other locations or age groups. This is independent of AFP levels, stage of disease or treatment protocol, and these patients may demand a different treatment strategy. CONCLUSIONS This review describes the heterogeneous nature of GCTs in different anatomical locations, impacting on stage at presentation, treatment modalities used and survival data. Despite this heterogeneity, in line with the current developmental biology-based classification system, subpopulations can be defined which have an inferior EFS and OS and where future research and more individualised treatment would help to improve survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline C. C. Hulsker
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (I.e.M.); (M.F.); (J.Z.); (M.H.W.W.); (L.H.J.L.); (A.M.C.M.-G.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-88-9727272
| | - Issam el Mansori
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (I.e.M.); (M.F.); (J.Z.); (M.H.W.W.); (L.H.J.L.); (A.M.C.M.-G.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
| | - Marta Fiocco
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (I.e.M.); (M.F.); (J.Z.); (M.H.W.W.); (L.H.J.L.); (A.M.C.M.-G.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
- Mathematical Institute, Leiden University, 2333CA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Leiden University Medical Center, Biomedical Data Science Department, Section Medical Statistics, 2333ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - József Zsiros
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (I.e.M.); (M.F.); (J.Z.); (M.H.W.W.); (L.H.J.L.); (A.M.C.M.-G.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
| | - Marc H. W. Wijnen
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (I.e.M.); (M.F.); (J.Z.); (M.H.W.W.); (L.H.J.L.); (A.M.C.M.-G.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
| | - Leendert H. J. Looijenga
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (I.e.M.); (M.F.); (J.Z.); (M.H.W.W.); (L.H.J.L.); (A.M.C.M.-G.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
| | - Annelies M. C. Mavinkurve-Groothuis
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (I.e.M.); (M.F.); (J.Z.); (M.H.W.W.); (L.H.J.L.); (A.M.C.M.-G.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
| | - Alida F. W. van der Steeg
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (I.e.M.); (M.F.); (J.Z.); (M.H.W.W.); (L.H.J.L.); (A.M.C.M.-G.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
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Between a Rock and a Hard Place: An Epigenetic-Centric View of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071506. [PMID: 33805941 PMCID: PMC8036638 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This minireview focuses on the role of epigenetics in testicular cancer. A working model is developed that postulates that epigenetic features that drive testicular cancer malignancy also enable these tumors to be cured at a high rate with chemotherapy. Chemoresistance may occur by epigenetic uncoupling of malignancy and chemosensitivity, a scenario that may be amenable to epigenetic-based therapies. Abstract Compared to many common solid tumors, the main genetic drivers of most testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are unknown. Decades of focus on genomic alterations in TGCTs including awareness of a near universal increase in copies of chromosome 12p have failed to uncover exceptional driver genes, especially in genes that can be targeted therapeutically. Thus far, TGCT patients have missed out on the benefits of targeted therapies available to treat most other malignancies. In the past decade there has been a greater appreciation that epigenetics may play an especially prominent role in TGCT etiology, progression, and hypersensitivity to conventional chemotherapy. While genetics undoubtedly plays a role in TGCT biology, this mini-review will focus on the epigenetic “states” or features of testicular cancer, with an emphasis on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and miRNAs associated with TGCT susceptibility, initiation, progression, and response to chemotherapy. In addition, we comment on the current status of epigenetic-based therapy and epigenetic biomarker development for TGCTs. Finally, we suggest a unifying “rock and a hard place” or “differentiate or die” model where the tumorigenicity and curability of TGCTs are both dependent on common but still ill-defined epigenetic states.
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Lobo J, Leão R, Jerónimo C, Henrique R. Liquid Biopsies in the Clinical Management of Germ Cell Tumor Patients: State-of-the-Art and Future Directions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052654. [PMID: 33800799 PMCID: PMC7961393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid biopsies constitute a minimally invasive means of managing cancer patients, entailing early diagnosis, follow-up and prediction of response to therapy. Their use in the germ cell tumor field is invaluable since diagnostic tissue biopsies (which are invasive) are often not performed, and therefore only a presumptive diagnosis can be made, confirmed upon examination of the surgical specimen. Herein, we provide an overall review of the current liquid biopsy-based biomarkers of this disease, including the classical, routinely used serum tumor markers—the promising microRNAs rapidly approaching the introduction into clinical practice—but also cell-free DNA markers (including DNA methylation) and circulating tumor cells. Finally, and importantly, we also explore novel strategies and challenges for liquid biopsy markers and methodologies, providing a critical view of the future directions for liquid biopsy tests in this field, highlighting gaps and unanswered questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Leão
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3000-370 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (C.J.); (R.H.); Tel.: +351-22-225084000 (C.J. & R.H.); Fax: +351-22-5084199 (C.J. & R.H.)
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (C.J.); (R.H.); Tel.: +351-22-225084000 (C.J. & R.H.); Fax: +351-22-5084199 (C.J. & R.H.)
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW miRNAs 371 and 302/367 clusters are abundantly secreted in the blood of patients with active germ cell malignancy (aGCM), both seminoma and nonseminoma. The serum concentration of those micro-RNAs correlates with tumor burden and to the activity of specific treatments; therefore, representing attractive biomarkers for the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with germ cell tumors. This review summarizes the most relevant evidence supporting their clinical validity in germ cell tumors. RECENT FINDINGS Several retrospective studies have reported high sensitivity and specificity of those micro-RNAs in identifying aGCM prior to the orchiectomy or in patients with metastatic germ cell tumor prior to or during chemotherapy. Most recently, few prospective studies have confirmed their clinical validity during the follow-up of patients after surgery and/or chemotherapy. Large studies are panned across the spectrum of germ cell tumors to assess their clinical utility and several efforts to identify biomarkers of teratoma are underway. SUMMARY The integration of those micro-RNAs in the management of germ cell tumors has the potential to refine the therapeutic decision, especially in some clinical situations characterized by high uncertainty, such as clinical stage I, clinical stage IIA with normal tumor markers and residual disease postchemotherapy.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although testicular cancer remains a highly curable malignancy, challenges and uncertainty still remain in certain aspects of management. Residual disease after chemotherapy in patients with germ cell tumors (GCT) remains one of these challenges. We aim to highlight the recent literature on the management of residual disease after chemotherapy in GCT and the emerging innovations that may provide further guidance into this area. RECENT FINDINGS A subset of patients with GCT will have residual disease after chemotherapy, and management of these patients involves highly skilled multidisciplinary experts including medical oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists. Management options depend on histologic subtype, either seminoma or nonseminoma, and involve size criteria, possible further imaging modalities, and tumor markers. Even with these tools at highly specialized expert centers, uncertainty in management remains, and recent literature has explored the use of newer biomarkers to aid in these cases. SUMMARY Postchemotherapy residual masses in GCT can prove to be complicated cases to manage. Balancing survival with quality of life outcomes is important and requires a multidisciplinary team experienced in treating GCT.
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Application of miRNAs in the diagnosis and monitoring of testicular germ cell tumours. Nat Rev Urol 2020; 17:201-213. [PMID: 32157202 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-020-0296-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the most frequent cancer type in young men and originate from the common precursor germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS). For decades, clinical management of patients with TGCT has relied on classic serum tumour markers: α-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin subunit-β and lactate dehydrogenase. In the past 10 years, microRNAs have been shown to outperform classic serum tumour markers in the diagnosis of primary tumours and in follow-up monitoring and prediction of relapse. miR-371a-3p is the most consistent marker and exhibits >90% diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in TGCT. However, miR-371a-3p cannot be used to diagnose GCNIS or mature teratoma. Future efforts must technically standardize the microRNA-based methods internationally and introduce miR-371a-3p as a molecular liquid biopsy-based marker for TGCTs in the clinic.
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Identification and Validation Model for Informative Liquid Biopsy-Based microRNA Biomarkers: Insights from Germ Cell Tumor In Vitro, In Vivo and Patient-Derived Data. Cells 2019; 8:cells8121637. [PMID: 31847394 PMCID: PMC6952794 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid biopsy-based biomarkers, such as microRNAs, represent valuable tools for patient management, but often do not make it to integration in the clinic. We aim to explore issues impeding this transition, in the setting of germ cell tumors, for which novel biomarkers are needed. We describe a model for identifying and validating clinically relevant microRNAs for germ cell tumor patients, using both in vitro, in vivo (mouse model) and patient-derived data. Initial wide screening of candidate microRNAs is performed, followed by targeted profiling of potentially relevant biomarkers. We demonstrate the relevance of appropriate (negative) controls, experimental conditions (proliferation), and issues related to sample origin (serum, plasma, cerebral spinal fluid) and pre-analytical variables (hemolysis, contaminants, temperature), all of which could interfere with liquid biopsy-based studies and their conclusions. Finally, we show the value of our identification model in a specific scenario, contradicting the presumed role of miR-375 as marker of teratoma histology in liquid biopsy setting. Our findings indicate other putative microRNAs (miR-885-5p, miR-448 and miR-197-3p) fulfilling this clinical need. The identification model is informative to identify the best candidate microRNAs to pursue in a clinical setting.
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Boguslawska J, Kryst P, Poletajew S, Piekielko-Witkowska A. TGF-β and microRNA Interplay in Genitourinary Cancers. Cells 2019; 8:E1619. [PMID: 31842336 PMCID: PMC6952810 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Genitourinary cancers (GCs) include a large group of different types of tumors localizing to the kidney, bladder, prostate, testis, and penis. Despite highly divergent molecular patterns, most GCs share commonly disturbed signaling pathways that involve the activity of TGF-β (transforming growth factor beta). TGF-β is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates key cancer-related molecular and cellular processes, including proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and chemoresistance. The understanding of the mechanisms of TGF-β actions in cancer is hindered by the "TGF-β paradox" in which early stages of cancerogenic process are suppressed by TGF-β while advanced stages are stimulated by its activity. A growing body of evidence suggests that these paradoxical TGF-β actions could result from the interplay with microRNAs: Short, non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by binding to target transcripts and inducing mRNA degradation or inhibition of translation. Here, we discuss the current knowledge of TGF-β signaling in GCs. Importantly, TGF-β signaling and microRNA-mediated regulation of gene expression often act in complicated feedback circuits that involve other crucial regulators of cancer progression (e.g., androgen receptor). Furthermore, recently published in vitro and in vivo studies clearly indicate that the interplay between microRNAs and the TGF-β signaling pathway offers new potential treatment options for GC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Boguslawska
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education; 01-813 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Piotr Kryst
- II Department of Urology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland; (P.K.); (S.P.)
| | - Slawomir Poletajew
- II Department of Urology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland; (P.K.); (S.P.)
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Sun B, Liu C, Li H, Zhang L, Luo G, Liang S, Lü M. Research progress on the interactions between long non-coding RNAs and microRNAs in human cancer. Oncol Lett 2019; 19:595-605. [PMID: 31897175 PMCID: PMC6923957 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.11182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous types of molecular mechanisms mediate the development of cancer. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are being increasingly recognized to play important role in mediating the development of diseases, including cancer. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) are the two most widely studied ncRNAs. Thus far, lncRNAs are known to have biological roles through a variety of mechanisms, including genetic imprinting, chromatin remodeling, cell cycle control, splicing regulation, mRNA decay and translational regulation, and miRNAs regulate gene expression through the degradation of mRNAs and lncRNAs. Although ncRNAs account for a major proportion of the total RNA, the mechanisms underlying the physiological or pathological processes mediated by various types of ncRNAs, and the specific interaction mechanisms between miRNAs and lncRNAs in various physiological and pathological processes, remain largely unknown. Thus, further research in this field is required. In general, the interaction mechanisms between miRNAs and lncRNAs in human cancer have become important research topics, and the study thereof has led to the recent development of related technologies. By providing examples and descriptions, and performing chart analysis, the present study aimed to review the interaction mechanisms and research approaches for these two types of ncRNAs, as well as their roles in the occurrence and development of cancer. These details have far-reaching significance for the utilization of these molecules in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binyu Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Chunxia Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Gang Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Sicheng Liang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Muhan Lü
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
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Chovanec M, Kalavska K, Mego M, Cheng L. Liquid biopsy in germ cell tumors: biology and clinical management. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2019; 20:187-194. [PMID: 31652083 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2019.1685383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Liquid biopsy is an increasingly studied approach for optimal and minimally invasive diagnostics of malignant tumors. The aim of this review is to provide evidence and discuss the utility of liquid biopsy in the management of germ cell tumors (GCTs).Areas covered: Herein, we summarize the evidence on liquid biopsy in GCTs including serum tumor markers, circulating tumor cells, microRNA and cell-free DNA. The search of literature was conducted from Pubmed/Medline, ASCO-meeting library searching for terms 'liquid biopsy', 'germ cell tumors', 'circulating tumor cells', 'microRNA', 'cell-free DNA'. Obtained original studies were included. Reference lists of review articles and key original articles were searched for additional original studies. We included articles published between1990 and 2019.Expert opinion: Liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive tool using body fluids for diagnostic purposes in cancer. The established value of serum tumor markers may be already considered a liquid biopsy technique in diagnosis of GCTs. Possible near-future refinements in diagnosis of GCTs are emerging. Further information on diagnosis, prognosis and resistance is added with recently described microRNAs, circulating tumor cells and cell-free DNA. While great promise is shown, further large-scale validation is needed to incorporate these novel liquid biopsies into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Chovanec
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, Bratislava, Slovakia.,Division of Hematology Oncology, Indiana University Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Katarina Kalavska
- Translational Research Unit at 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Michal Mego
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, Bratislava, Slovakia.,Translational Research Unit at 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Liang Cheng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine0, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Department of Urology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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