1
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Jiang C, Zhou Q, Yi K, Yuan Y, Xie X. Colorectal cancer initiation: Understanding early-stage disease for intervention. Cancer Lett 2024; 589:216831. [PMID: 38574882 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
How tumors arise or the cause of precancerous lesions is a fundamental question in cancer biology. It is generally accepted that tumors originate from normal cells that undergo uncontrolled proliferation owing to genetic alterations. At the onset of adenoma formation, cancer driver mutations confer clonal growth advantage, enabling mutant cells to outcompete and eliminate the surrounding healthy cells. Hence, the development of precancerous lesions is not only attributed to the expansion of pre-malignant clones, but also relies on the relative fitness of mutated cells compared to the neighboring cells. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an excellent model to investigate cancer origin as it follows a stereotypical process from mutant cell hyperplasia to adenoma formation and progression. Here, we review the evolving understanding of colonic tumor development, focusing on how cell intrinsic and extrinsic factors impact cell competition and the "clone war" between cancer-initiating cells and normal stem cells. We also discuss the promises and limitations of targeting cell competitiveness in cancer prevention and early intervention. The field of tumor initiation is currently in its infancy, elucidating the adenoma origin is crucial for designing effective prevention strategies and early treatments before cancer becomes incurable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Jiang
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, 314400, China
| | - Qiujing Zhou
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, 314400, China; The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310005, China
| | - Ke Yi
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, 314400, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xin Xie
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, 314400, China; Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Institute and Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310029, China; Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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2
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Oryani MA, Tavasoli A, Ghalavand MA, Ashtiani RZ, Rezaee A, Mahmoudi R, Golvari H, Owrangi S, Soleymani-Goloujeh M. Epigenetics and its therapeutic potential in colorectal cancer. Epigenomics 2022; 14:683-697. [PMID: 35473313 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2022-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that colorectal cancer (CRC) is the leading cause of cancer-related death around the globe. 'Epigenetics' refers to changes in the chromosome rather than the DNA sequence, which may be transmitted down to daughter cells. Epigenetics is an essential part of controlling the development and variation of a single cell. ncRNAs have a role in epigenetic regulation in CRC, which will be discussed in this review in the context of DNA methylation and histone modifications. A greater survival rate for CRC patients might be achieved by addressing epigenetic mediators, as the authors show. In this review, they aim to thoroughly examine the role of epigenetics in the prognosis, diagnosis and treatment of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Akbari Oryani
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Tavasoli
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Ghalavand
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Alisam Rezaee
- Faculty of Medical Sciences & Technologies, Science & Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Hossein Golvari
- School of Nursing & Paramedical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Soroor Owrangi
- Student Research Committee, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Mehdi Soleymani-Goloujeh
- Department of Stem Cells & Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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3
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Xiao Q, Werner J, Venkatachalam N, Boonekamp KE, Ebert MP, Zhan T. Cross-Talk between p53 and Wnt Signaling in Cancer. Biomolecules 2022; 12:453. [PMID: 35327645 PMCID: PMC8946298 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting cancer hallmarks is a cardinal strategy to improve antineoplastic treatment. However, cross-talk between signaling pathways and key oncogenic processes frequently convey resistance to targeted therapies. The p53 and Wnt pathway play vital roles for the biology of many tumors, as they are critically involved in cancer onset and progression. Over recent decades, a high level of interaction between the two pathways has been revealed. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of molecular interactions between the p53 and Wnt pathway discovered in cancer, including complex feedback loops and reciprocal transactivation. The mutational landscape of genes associated with p53 and Wnt signaling is described, including mutual exclusive and co-occurring genetic alterations. Finally, we summarize the functional consequences of this cross-talk for cancer phenotypes, such as invasiveness, metastasis or drug resistance, and discuss potential strategies to pharmacologically target the p53-Wnt interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyun Xiao
- Department of Medicine II, Mannheim University Hospital, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Q.X.); (N.V.); (M.P.E.)
| | - Johannes Werner
- Division Signaling and Functional Genomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), and Department Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, Heidelberg University, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (J.W.); (K.E.B.)
| | - Nachiyappan Venkatachalam
- Department of Medicine II, Mannheim University Hospital, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Q.X.); (N.V.); (M.P.E.)
| | - Kim E. Boonekamp
- Division Signaling and Functional Genomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), and Department Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, Heidelberg University, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (J.W.); (K.E.B.)
| | - Matthias P. Ebert
- Department of Medicine II, Mannheim University Hospital, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Q.X.); (N.V.); (M.P.E.)
- Mannheim Cancer Center, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Tianzuo Zhan
- Department of Medicine II, Mannheim University Hospital, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Q.X.); (N.V.); (M.P.E.)
- Mannheim Cancer Center, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany
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4
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Sharma A, Mir R, Galande S. Epigenetic Regulation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Cancer. Front Genet 2021; 12:681053. [PMID: 34552611 PMCID: PMC8450413 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.681053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies over the past four decades have elucidated the role of Wnt/β-catenin mediated regulation in cell proliferation, differentiation and migration. These processes are fundamental to embryonic development, regeneration potential of tissues, as well as cancer initiation and progression. In this review, we focus on the epigenetic players which influence the Wnt/β-catenin pathway via modulation of its components and coordinated regulation of the Wnt target genes. The role played by crosstalk with other signaling pathways mediating tumorigenesis is also elaborated. The Hippo/YAP pathway is particularly emphasized due to its extensive crosstalk via the Wnt destruction complex. Further, we highlight the recent advances in developing potential therapeutic interventions targeting the epigenetic machinery based on the characterization of these regulatory networks for effective treatment of various cancers and also for regenerative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Sharma
- Centre of Excellence in Epigenetics, Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune, India
| | - Rafeeq Mir
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Sanjeev Galande
- Centre of Excellence in Epigenetics, Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune, India.,Department of Life Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
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5
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Zhu L, Li X, Yuan Y, Dong C, Yang M. APC Promoter Methylation in Gastrointestinal Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:653222. [PMID: 33968756 PMCID: PMC8103321 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.653222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene, known as tumor suppressor gene, has the two promoters 1A and 1B. Researches on APC have usually focused on its loss-of-function variants causing familial adenomatous polyposis. Hypermethylation, however, which is one of the key epigenetic alterations of the APC CpG sequence, is also associated with carcinogenesis in various cancers. Accumulating studies have successively explored the role of APC hypermethylation in gastrointestinal (GI) tumors, such as in esophageal, colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, and hepatic cancer. In sporadic colorectal cancer, the hypermethylation of CpG island in APC is even considered as one of the primary causative factors. In this review, we systematically summarized the distribution of APC gene methylation in various GI tumors, and attempted to provide an improved general understanding of DNA methylation in GI tumors. In addition, we included a robust overview of demethylating agents available for both basic and clinical researches. Finally, we elaborated our findings and perspectives on the overall situation of APC gene methylation in GI tumors, aiming to explore the potential research directions and clinical values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lila Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Caixia Dong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengyuan Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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6
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Michelli M, Zougros A, Chatziandreou I, Michalopoulos NV, Lazaris AC, Saetta AA. Concurrent Wnt pathway component expression in breast and colorectal cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2020; 216:153005. [PMID: 32534708 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2020.153005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Wnt signaling pathway regulates important cell functions such as proliferation and migration and is frequently deregulated in colorectal and breast cancer. Thus, it constitutes an attractive therapeutic target with many drugs being investigated in clinical trials. Eighty-two breast and 102 colorectal carcinomas were analyzed for: relative mRNA expression levels of Wnt pathway components namely Wnt3 ligand, Frizzled 7 receptor and LEF1 transcriptional factor, their concurrent expression patterns and their correlation with clinicopathological features. Regarding breast carcinomas, increased relative mRNA expression levels of WNT3 were found in 54 % of cases whereas decreased relative mRNA expression levels were observed in FZD7 and LEF1 in 82 % and 43 % of cases, respectively. Expression levels of WNT3 were significantly correlated with tumour grade (p = 0.021) in breast cancer. As far as colorectal carcinomas are concerned, increased relative mRNA expression levels of WNT3, FZD7 and LEF1 were found in 60 %, 37 % and 48 % of cases respectively. A statistically significant correlation emerged between LEF1expression levels and pT-category (p = 0.027), suggesting a possible association with tumour aggressiveness in colorectal carcinomas. Statistically significant linear correlations were observed between the expression of WNT3/LEF1 (R = 0.233, p = 0.035) and FZD7/LEF1 (R = 0.359, p = 0.001) in breast carcinomas as well as in colorectal carcinomas (R = 0.536, p < 0.01 and R = 0.210, p = 0.034) respectively. Our results demonstrate a possible clinical significance of Wnt pathway gene expression levels in both tumour types. The distinct expression patterns and simultaneous expression of the investigated genes underscore the complexity of this pathway in breast and colorectal carcinogenesis and highlights the necessity of patient selection with regard to the effectiveness of Wnt pathway inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Michelli
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandros Zougros
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Ilenia Chatziandreou
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos V Michalopoulos
- Fourth Department of Surgery, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Attikon University Hospital, Rimini 1, Haidari, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas C Lazaris
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Angelica A Saetta
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Goudi, Athens, Greece.
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7
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Wils LJ, Bijlsma MF. Epigenetic regulation of the Hedgehog and Wnt pathways in cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2018; 121:23-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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8
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Barrow TM, Klett H, Toth R, Böhm J, Gigic B, Habermann N, Scherer D, Schrotz-King P, Skender S, Abbenhardt-Martin C, Zielske L, Schneider M, Ulrich A, Schirmacher P, Herpel E, Brenner H, Busch H, Boerries M, Ulrich CM, Michels KB. Smoking is associated with hypermethylation of the APC 1A promoter in colorectal cancer: the ColoCare Study. J Pathol 2017; 243:366-375. [PMID: 28791728 DOI: 10.1002/path.4955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Smoking tobacco is a known risk factor for the development of colorectal cancer and for mortality associated with the disease. Smoking has been reported to be associated with changes in DNA methylation in blood and in lung tumour tissues, although there has been scant investigation of how epigenetic factors may be implicated in the increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. To identify epigenetic changes associated with smoking behaviours, we performed epigenome-wide analysis of DNA methylation in colorectal tumours from 36 never-smokers, 47 former smokers, and 13 active smokers, and in adjacent mucosa from 49 never-smokers, 64 former smokers, and 18 active smokers. Our analyses identified 15 CpG sites within the APC 1A promoter that were significantly hypermethylated and 14 CpG loci within the NFATC1 gene body that were significantly hypomethylated (pLIS < 1 × 10-5 ) in the tumours of active smokers. The APC 1A promoter was hypermethylated in 7 of 36 tumours from never-smokers (19%), 12 of 47 tumours from former smokers (26%), and 8 of 13 tumours from active smokers (62%). Promoter hypermethylation was positively associated with duration of smoking (Spearman rank correlation, ρ = 0.26, p = 0.03) and was confined to tumours, with hypermethylation never being observed in adjacent mucosa. Further analysis of adjacent mucosa revealed significant hypomethylation of four loci associated with the TNXB gene in tissue from active smokers. Our findings provide exploratory evidence for hypermethylation of the key tumour suppressor gene APC being implicated in smoking-associated colorectal carcinogenesis. Further work is required to establish the validity of our observations in independent cohorts. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Barrow
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute for Prevention and Cancer Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hagen Klett
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Reka Toth
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Böhm
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Biljana Gigic
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Surgical Oncology, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nina Habermann
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dominique Scherer
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Medical Biometry and Informatics, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Petra Schrotz-King
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephanie Skender
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Clare Abbenhardt-Martin
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lin Zielske
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin Schneider
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexis Ulrich
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Schirmacher
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of General Pathology, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Esther Herpel
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of General Pathology, University Clinic Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hermann Brenner
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Clinical Epidemiology and Aging Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hauke Busch
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology and Institute of Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Melanie Boerries
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Cornelia M Ulrich
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Preventive Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Karin B Michels
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute for Prevention and Cancer Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Tse JWT, Jenkins LJ, Chionh F, Mariadason JM. Aberrant DNA Methylation in Colorectal Cancer: What Should We Target? Trends Cancer 2017; 3:698-712. [PMID: 28958388 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancers (CRCs) are characterized by global hypomethylation and promoter-specific DNA methylation. A subset of CRCs with extensive and co-ordinate patterns of promoter methylation has also been identified, termed the CpG-island methylator phenotype. Some genes methylated in CRC are established tumor suppressors; however, for the majority, direct roles in disease initiation or progression have not been established. Herein, we examine functional evidence of specific methylated genes contributing to CRC pathogenesis, focusing on components of commonly deregulated signaling pathways. We also review current knowledge of the mechanisms underpinning promoter methylation in CRC, including genetic events, altered transcription factor binding, and DNA damage. Finally, we summarize clinical trials of DNA methyltransferase inhibitors in CRC, and propose strategies for enhancing their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janson W T Tse
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; These authors contributed equally
| | - Laura J Jenkins
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; These authors contributed equally
| | - Fiona Chionh
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John M Mariadason
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
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10
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Naini MA, Mokarram P, Kavousipour S, Zare N, Atapour A, Zarin1 MH, Mehrabani G, Borji M. Sensitive and Noninvasive Detection of Aberrant SFRP2 and MGMT-B Methylation in Iranian Patients with Colon Polyps. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2017; 17:2185-93. [PMID: 27221916 DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2016.17.4.2185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC) is influenced by the patient genetic background and environmental factors. Based on prior understanding, these are classified in two major pathways of genetic instability. Microsatellite instability (MSI) and CPG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) are categorized as features of the hypermethylated prototype, and chromosomal instability (CIN) is known to be indicative of the non-hypermethylated category. Secreted frizzled related protein 2 (SFRP2), APC1A in WNT signaling pathway and the DNA repair gene, O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), are frequently hypermethylated in colorectal cancer. Detection of methylated DNA as a biomarker by easy and inexpensive methods might improve the quality of life of patients with CRC via early detection of cancer or a precancerous condition. AIM To evaluate the rate of SFRP2 and MGMT hypermethylation in both polyp tissue and serum of patients in south Iran as compared with matched control normal population corresponding samples. MATERIALS AND METHODS Methylation-specific PCR was used to detect hypermethylation in DNA extracted from 48 polypoid tissue samples and 25 healthy individuals. RESULTS Of total polyp samples, 89.5% had at least one promoter gene hypermethylation. The most frequent methylated locus was SFRP2 followed by MGMT-B (81.2 and 66.6 percent respectively). Serologic detection of hypermethylation was 95% sensitive as compared with polyp tissue. No hypermethylation was detected in normal tissue and serum and its detection in patients with polyps, especially of serrated type, was specific. CONCLUSIONS Serologic investigation for detection of MGMT-B, SFRP2 hypermethylation could facilitate prioritization of high risk patients for colonoscopic polyp detection and excision.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Alizade Naini
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran E-mail :
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11
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Abstract
Background Germline mutations in the coding sequence of the tumour suppressor APC gene give rise to familial adenomatous polyposis (which leads to colorectal cancer) and are associated with many other oncopathologies. The loss of APC function because of deletion of putative promoter 1A or 1B also results in the development of colorectal cancer. Since the regions of promoters 1A and 1B contain many single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), the aim of this study was to perform functional analysis of some of these SNPs by means of an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and a luciferase reporter assay. Results First, it was shown that both putative promoters of APC (1A and 1B) drive transcription in an in vitro reporter experiment. From eleven randomly selected SNPs of promoter 1A and four SNPs of promoter 1B, nine and two respectively showed differential patterns of binding of nuclear proteins to oligonucleotide probes corresponding to alternative alleles. The luciferase reporter assay showed that among the six SNPs tested, the rs75612255 C allele and rs113017087 C allele in promoter 1A as well as the rs138386816 T allele and rs115658307 T allele in promoter 1B significantly increased luciferase activity in the human erythromyeloblastoid leukaemia cell line K562. In human colorectal cancer HCT-116 cells, none of the substitutions under study had any effect, with the exception of minor allele G of rs79896135 in promoter 1B. This allele significantly decreased the luciferase reporter’s activity Conclusion Our results indicate that many SNPs in APC promoters 1A and 1B are functionally relevant and that allele G of rs79896135 may be associated with the predisposition to colorectal cancer. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12863-016-0460-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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12
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Schell MJ, Yang M, Teer JK, Lo FY, Madan A, Coppola D, Monteiro ANA, Nebozhyn MV, Yue B, Loboda A, Bien-Willner GA, Greenawalt DM, Yeatman TJ. A multigene mutation classification of 468 colorectal cancers reveals a prognostic role for APC. Nat Commun 2016; 7:11743. [PMID: 27302369 PMCID: PMC4912618 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms11743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly heterogeneous disease, for which prognosis has been relegated to clinicopathologic staging for decades. There is a need to stratify subpopulations of CRC on a molecular basis to better predict outcome and assign therapies. Here we report targeted exome-sequencing of 1,321 cancer-related genes on 468 tumour specimens, which identified a subset of 17 genes that best classify CRC, with APC playing a central role in predicting overall survival. APC may assume 0, 1 or 2 truncating mutations, each with a striking differential impact on survival. Tumours lacking any APC mutation carry a worse prognosis than single APC mutation tumours; however, two APC mutation tumours with mutant KRAS and TP53 confer the poorest survival among all the subgroups examined. Our study demonstrates a prognostic role for APC and suggests that sequencing of APC may have clinical utility in the routine staging and potential therapeutic assignment for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Schell
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Mingli Yang
- Gibbs Cancer Center and Research Institute, 380 Serpentine Drive, Spartanburg, South Carolina 29303, USA
| | - Jamie K Teer
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Fang Yin Lo
- Genomic Services, LabCorp Clinical Trials, 401 Terry Avenue North, Suite 200, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
| | - Anup Madan
- Genomic Services, LabCorp Clinical Trials, 401 Terry Avenue North, Suite 200, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
| | - Domenico Coppola
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Alvaro N A Monteiro
- Department of Epidemiology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Michael V Nebozhyn
- Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Merck, Sharp and Dohme, PO Box 4, 770 Sumneytown Pike, Building 53, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | - Binglin Yue
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Andrey Loboda
- Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Merck, Sharp and Dohme, PO Box 4, 770 Sumneytown Pike, Building 53, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | | | - Danielle M Greenawalt
- Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Merck, Sharp and Dohme, PO Box 4, 770 Sumneytown Pike, Building 53, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | - Timothy J Yeatman
- Gibbs Cancer Center and Research Institute, 380 Serpentine Drive, Spartanburg, South Carolina 29303, USA
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13
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Reduced expression of APC-1B but not APC-1A by the deletion of promoter 1B is responsible for familial adenomatous polyposis. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26011. [PMID: 27217144 PMCID: PMC4877598 DOI: 10.1038/srep26011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline mutations in the tumor suppressor gene APC are associated with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Here we applied whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to the DNA of a sporadic FAP patient in which we did not find any pathological APC mutations by direct sequencing. WGS identified a promoter deletion of approximately 10 kb encompassing promoter 1B and exon1B of APC. Additional allele-specific expression analysis by deep cDNA sequencing revealed that the deletion reduced the expression of the mutated APC allele to as low as 11.2% in the total APC transcripts, suggesting that the residual mutant transcripts were driven by other promoter(s). Furthermore, cap analysis of gene expression (CAGE) demonstrated that the deleted promoter 1B region is responsible for the great majority of APC transcription in many tissues except the brain. The deletion decreased the transcripts of APC-1B to 39-45% in the patient compared to the healthy controls, but it did not decrease those of APC-1A. Different deletions including promoter 1B have been reported in FAP patients. Taken together, our results strengthen the evidence that analysis of structural variations in promoter 1B should be considered for the FAP patients whose pathological mutations are not identified by conventional direct sequencing.
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14
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Tezcan G, Tunca B, Ak S, Cecener G, Egeli U. Molecular approach to genetic and epigenetic pathogenesis of early-onset colorectal cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2016; 8:83-98. [PMID: 26798439 PMCID: PMC4714149 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v8.i1.83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent cancer type and the incidence of this disease is increasing gradually per year in individuals younger than 50 years old. The current knowledge is that early-onset CRC (EOCRC) cases are heterogeneous population that includes both hereditary and sporadic forms of the CRC. Although EOCRC cases have some distinguishing clinical and pathological features than elder age CRC, the molecular mechanism underlying the EOCRC is poorly clarified. Given the significance of CRC in the world of medicine, the present review will focus on the recent knowledge in the molecular basis of genetic and epigenetic mechanism of the hereditary forms of EOCRC, which includes Lynch syndrome, Familial CRC type X, Familial adenomatous polyposis, MutYH-associated polyposis, Juvenile polyposis syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome and sporadic forms of EOCRC. Recent findings about molecular genetics and epigenetic basis of EOCRC gave rise to new alternative therapy protocols. Although exact diagnosis of these cases still remains complicated, the present review paves way for better predictions and contributes to more accurate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies into clinical approach.
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15
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Wild-type APC predicts poor prognosis in microsatellite-stable proximal colon cancer. Br J Cancer 2015; 113:979-88. [PMID: 26305864 PMCID: PMC4578087 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2015.296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Revised: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: APC mutations (APC-mt) occur in ∼70% of colorectal cancers (CRCs), but their relationship to prognosis is unclear. Methods: APC prognostic value was evaluated in 746 stage I–IV CRC patients, stratifying for tumour location and microsatellite instability (MSI). Microarrays were used to identify a gene signature that could classify APC mutation status, and classifier ability to predict prognosis was examined in an independent cohort. Results: Wild-type APC microsatellite stable (APC-wt/MSS) tumours from the proximal colon showed poorer overall and recurrence-free survival (OS, RFS) than APC-mt/MSS proximal, APC-wt/MSS distal and APC-mt/MSS distal tumours (OS HR⩾1.79, P⩽0.015; RFS HR⩾1.88, P⩽0.026). APC was a stronger prognostic indicator than BRAF, KRAS, PIK3CA, TP53, CpG island methylator phenotype or chromosomal instability status (P⩽0.036). Microarray analysis similarly revealed poorer survival in MSS proximal cancers with an APC-wt-like signature (P=0.019). APC status did not affect outcomes in MSI tumours. In a validation on 206 patients with proximal colon cancer, APC-wt-like signature MSS cases showed poorer survival than APC-mt-like signature MSS or MSI cases (OS HR⩾2.50, P⩽0.010; RFS HR⩾2.14, P⩽0.025). Poor prognosis APC-wt/MSS proximal tumours exhibited features of the sessile serrated neoplasia pathway (P⩽0.016). Conclusions: APC-wt status is a marker of poor prognosis in MSS proximal colon cancer.
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16
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Michailidi C, Theocharis S, Tsourouflis G, Pletsa V, Kouraklis G, Patsouris E, Papavassiliou AG, Troungos C. Expression and promoter methylation status of hMLH1, MGMT, APC, and CDH1 genes in patients with colon adenocarcinoma. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2015; 240:1599-605. [PMID: 25908636 DOI: 10.1177/1535370215583800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in men and the second in women worldwide. CRC development is the result of genetic and epigenetic alterations accumulation in the epithelial cells of colon mucosa. In the present study, DNA methylation, an epigenetic event, was evaluated in tumoral and matching normal epithelium in a cohort of 61 CRC patients. The results confirmed and expanded knowledge for the tumor suppressor genes hMLH1, MGMT, APC, and CDH1. Promoter methylation was observed for all the examined genes in different percentage. A total of 71% and 10% of the examined cases were found to be methylated in two or more and in all genes, respectively. mRNA and protein levels were also evaluated. Promoter methylation of hMLH1, MGMT, APC, and CDH1 genes was present at the early stages of tumor's formation and it could also be detected in the normal mucosa. Correlations of the methylated genes with patient's age and tumor's clinicopathological characteristics were also observed. Our findings suggest that DNA methylation is a useful marker for tumor progression monitoring and that promoter methylation in certain genes is associated with more advanced tumor stage, poor differentiation, and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Michailidi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Athens Medical School, Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, University of Athens Medical School, Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Tsourouflis
- Second Department of Propedeutic Surgery, University of Athens Medical School, Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Pletsa
- Institute of Biology, Medicinal Chemistry and Biotechnology, Division of Biological Research & Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens 11635, Greece
| | - Gregorios Kouraklis
- Second Department of Propedeutic Surgery, University of Athens Medical School, Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Efstratios Patsouris
- First Department of Pathology, University of Athens Medical School, Athens 11527, Greece
| | | | - Constantinos Troungos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Athens Medical School, Athens 11527, Greece
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17
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Pavicic W, Nieminen TT, Gylling A, Pursiheimo JP, Laiho A, Gyenesei A, Järvinen HJ, Peltomäki P. Promoter-specific alterations of APC are a rare cause for mutation-negative familial adenomatous polyposis. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2014; 53:857-64. [PMID: 24946964 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.22197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
n familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), 20% of classical and 70% of attenuated/atypical (AFAP) cases remain mutation-negative after routine testing; yet, allelic expression imbalance may suggest an APC alteration. Our aim was to determine the proportion of families attributable to genetic or epigenetic changes in the APC promoter region. We studied 51 unrelated families/cases (26 with classical FAP and 25 with AFAP) with no point mutations in the exons and exon/intron borders and no rearrangements by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA, P043-B1). Promoter-specific events of APC were addressed by targeted resequencing, MLPA (P043-C1), methylation-specific MLPA, and Sanger sequencing of promoter regions. A novel 132-kb deletion encompassing the APC promoter 1B and upstream sequence occurred in a classical FAP family with allele-specific APC expression. No promoter-specific point mutations or hypermethylation were present in any family. In conclusion, promoter-specific alterations are a rare cause for mutation-negative FAP (1/51, 2%). The frequency and clinical correlations of promoter 1B deletions are poorly defined. This investigation provides frequencies of 1/26 (4%) for classical FAP, 0/25 (0%) for AFAP, and 1/7 (14%) for families with allele-specific expression of APC. Clinically, promoter 1B deletions may associate with classical FAP without extracolonic manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Pavicic
- Department of Medical Genetics, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Laboratorio de Citogenética y Mutagénesis, Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Celular (IMBICE-CONICET-CICPBA), La Plata, Argentina
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18
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Grandval P, Blayau M, Buisine MP, Coulet F, Maugard C, Pinson S, Remenieras A, Tinat J, Uhrhammer N, Béroud C, Olschwang S. The UMD-APC database, a model of nation-wide knowledge base: update with data from 3,581 variations. Hum Mutat 2014; 35:532-6. [PMID: 24599579 DOI: 10.1002/humu.22539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a rare autosomal-inherited disease that highly predisposes to colorectal cancer, characterized by a diffuse duodenal and colorectal polyposis associated with various extradigestive tumors and linked to germline mutations within the APC gene. A French consortium of laboratories involved in APC mutation screening has progressively improved the description of the variation spectrum, inferred functional significance of nontruncating variations, and delineated phenotypic characteristics of the disease. The current version of the UMD-APC database is described here. The total number of variations has risen to 5,453 representing 1,473 distinct variations. The published records initially registered into the database were extended with 3,581 germline variations found through genetic testing performed by the eight licensed laboratories belonging to the French APC network. Sixty six of 149 variations of previously unknown significance have now been classified as (likely) causal or neutral. The database is available on the Internet (http://www.umd.be/APC/) and updated twice per year according to the consensus rules of the network. The UMD-APC database is thus expected to facilitate functional classification of rare synonymous, nonsynonymous, and intronic mutations and consequently improve genetic counseling and medical care in FAP families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Grandval
- UMR_S910, INSERM, Marseille, France; AP-HM La Timone, Gastroenterology Department, Marseille, France
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19
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Kondratov AG, Nekrasov KA, Lototska LV, Panasenko GV, Stoliar LA, Lapska YV, Kolesnyk OO, Shchepotin IB, Rynditch AV, Kashuba VI. Comparative analysis of epigenetic markers in plasma and tissue of patients with colorectal cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.7124/bc.00088b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - K. A. Nekrasov
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, NAS of Ukraine
| | - L. V. Lototska
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, NAS of Ukraine
| | | | - L. A. Stoliar
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, NAS of Ukraine
| | - Y. V. Lapska
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, NAS of Ukraine
| | | | | | - A. V. Rynditch
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, NAS of Ukraine
| | - V. I. Kashuba
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, NAS of Ukraine
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute
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20
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Liao J, Li XF, Zhou SC, Luo Y, Liu AL, Lu WQ. Bromodichloromethane induces cell proliferation in different tissues of male F344 rats by suppression of E-cadherin expression via hypermethylation or transcriptional activation of c-myc and cyclin D1. Toxicol Lett 2013; 223:162-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2013.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2013] [Revised: 08/14/2013] [Accepted: 08/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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21
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Christie M, Jorissen RN, Mouradov D, Sakthianandeswaren A, Li S, Day F, Tsui C, Lipton L, Desai J, Jones IT, McLaughlin S, Ward RL, Hawkins NJ, Ruszkiewicz AR, Moore J, Burgess AW, Busam D, Zhao Q, Strausberg RL, Simpson AJ, Tomlinson IPM, Gibbs P, Sieber OM. Different APC genotypes in proximal and distal sporadic colorectal cancers suggest distinct WNT/β-catenin signalling thresholds for tumourigenesis. Oncogene 2013; 32:4675-82. [PMID: 23085758 PMCID: PMC3787794 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2012.486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2012] [Revised: 08/20/2012] [Accepted: 09/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Biallelic protein-truncating mutations in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene are prevalent in sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC). Mutations may not be fully inactivating, instead producing WNT/β-catenin signalling levels 'just-right' for tumourigenesis. However, the spectrum of optimal APC genotypes accounting for both hits, and the influence of clinicopathological features on genotype selection remain undefined. We analysed 630 sporadic CRCs for APC mutations and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) using sequencing and single-nucleotide polymorphism microarrays, respectively. Truncating APC mutations and/or LOH were detected in 75% of CRCs. Most truncating mutations occurred within a mutation cluster region (MCR; codons 1282-1581) leaving 1-3 intact 20 amino-acid repeats (20AARs) and abolishing all Ser-Ala-Met-Pro (SAMP) repeats. Cancers commonly had one MCR mutation plus either LOH or another mutation 5' to the MCR. LOH was associated with mutations leaving 1 intact 20AAR. MCR mutations leaving 1 vs 2-3 intact 20AARs were associated with 5' mutations disrupting or leaving intact the armadillo-repeat domain, respectively. Cancers with three hits had an over-representation of mutations upstream of codon 184, in the alternatively spliced region of exon 9, and 3' to the MCR. Microsatellite unstable cancers showed hyper-mutation at MCR mono- and di-nucleotide repeats, leaving 2-3 intact 20AARs. Proximal and distal cancers exhibited different preferred APC genotypes, leaving a total of 2 or 3 and 0 to 2 intact 20AARs, respectively. In conclusion, APC genotypes in sporadic CRCs demonstrate 'fine-tuned' interdependence of hits by type and location, consistent with selection for particular residual levels of WNT/β-catenin signalling, with different 'optimal' thresholds for proximal and distal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Christie
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - R N Jorissen
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - D Mouradov
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - A Sakthianandeswaren
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - S Li
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - F Day
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - C Tsui
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - L Lipton
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - J Desai
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - I T Jones
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - S McLaughlin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Western Hospital, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
| | - R L Ward
- Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - N J Hawkins
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - A R Ruszkiewicz
- Pathology Department, Institute of Medical and Veterinary Science, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - J Moore
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - A W Burgess
- Epithelial Biology Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - D Busam
- J Craig Venter Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Q Zhao
- J Craig Venter Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - R L Strausberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory for Cancer Biology and Therapy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Ltd, New York, NY, USA
| | - A J Simpson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory for Cancer Biology and Therapy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Ltd, New York, NY, USA
| | - I P M Tomlinson
- Molecular and Population Genetics Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford, OX, UK
| | - P Gibbs
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - O M Sieber
- Ludwig Colon Cancer Initiative Laboratory, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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22
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Kadiyska TK, Todorov TP, Bichev SN, Vazharova RV, Nossikoff AV, Savov AS, Mitev VI. APC promoter 1B deletion in familial polyposis--implications for mutation-negative families. Clin Genet 2013; 85:452-7. [PMID: 23725351 DOI: 10.1111/cge.12210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Revised: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Over 1500 adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene mutations have already been identified as causative of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). However, routine genetic testing fails to detect mutations in about 10% of classic FAP cases. Recently, it has been shown that a proportion of mutation-negative FAP cases bear molecular changes in deep intronic and regulatory sequences. In this study, we used direct sequencing, followed by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) of genomic DNA from family members, affected by classic FAP. We first reported the family as mutation negative. With the launch of a new version of MLPA kit, we retested the family and a novel full deletion of promoter 1B was detected. The exact breakpoints of the deletion were determined by array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and long range polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by direct sequencing. The total APC expression levels were investigated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay and allele-specific expression (ASE) analysis. The APC gene expression was highly reduced, which indicates causative relationship. We suggest that there is a significant possibility that APC promoter 1B mutations could be found in mutation-negative FAP patients. In the light of our findings it seems reasonable to consider targeted genetic re-analysis of APC promoter 1B region in a larger cohort of unsolved cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- T K Kadiyska
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemitry, Sofia Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Medical Genetics, Genetic Medico-Diagnostic Laboratory Genica, Sofia, Bulgaria
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23
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Andreasson A, Sulaiman L, do Vale S, Martins JM, Ferreira F, Miltenberger-Miltenyi G, Batista L, Haglund F, Björck E, Nilsson IL, Höög A, Larsson C, Juhlin CC. Molecular characterization of parathyroid tumors from two patients with hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes. Fam Cancer 2013; 11:355-62. [PMID: 22395475 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-012-9520-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The tumor suppressor adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) has recently been implicated in parathyroid development. We here report clinical, histopathological and molecular investigations in parathyroid tumors arising in two patients; one familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) syndrome patient carrying a constitutional APC mutation, and one Lynch syndrome patient demonstrating a germline MLH1 mutation as well as a non-classified, missense alteration of the APC gene. We sequenced the entire APC gene in tumor and constitutional DNA from both cases, assessed the levels of APC promoter 1A and 1B methylation by bisulfite Pyrosequencing analysis and performed immunohistochemistry for APC and parafibromin. In addition, copy number analysis regarding the APC gene on chromosome 5q21-22 was performed using qRT-PCR. Histopathological workup confirmed both tumors as parathyroid adenomas without signs of malignancy or atypia. No somatic mutations or copy number changes for the APC gene were discovered in the tumors; however, in both cases, the APC promoter 1A was hypermethylated while the APC promoter 1B was unmethylated. APC promoter 1B-specific mRNA and total APC mRNA levels were higher than in normal parathyroid samples. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed strong APC protein immunoreactivity and positive parafibromin expression in both parathyroid tumors. Absence of additional somatic APC mutations and copy number changes in addition to the positive APC immunoreactivity obtained suggest that the tumors arose without biallelic inactivation of the APC tumor suppressor gene. The finding of an unmethylated APC promoter 1B and high APC 1B mRNA levels could explain the maintained APC protein expression. Moreover, the findings of positive parafibromin and APC immunoreactivity as well as a low MIB-1 proliferation index and absence of histopathological features of malignancy/atypical adenoma indicate that the parathyroid adenomas arising in these patients did not harbor malignant potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Andreasson
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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24
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Domingo E, Ramamoorthy R, Oukrif D, Rosmarin D, Presz M, Wang H, Pulker H, Lockstone H, Hveem T, Cranston T, Danielsen H, Novelli M, Davidson B, Xu ZZ, Molloy P, Johnstone E, Holmes C, Midgley R, Kerr D, Sieber O, Tomlinson I. Use of multivariate analysis to suggest a new molecular classification of colorectal cancer. J Pathol 2013; 229:441-8. [PMID: 23165447 PMCID: PMC3588155 DOI: 10.1002/path.4139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Revised: 09/20/2012] [Accepted: 10/10/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Abstract Molecular classification of colorectal cancer (CRC) is currently based on microsatellite instability (MSI), KRAS or BRAF mutation and, occasionally, chromosomal instability (CIN). Whilst useful, these categories may not fully represent the underlying molecular subgroups. We screened 906 stage II/III CRCs from the VICTOR clinical trial for somatic mutations. Multivariate analyses (logistic regression, clustering, Bayesian networks) identified the primary molecular associations. Positive associations occurred between: CIN and TP53 mutation; MSI and BRAF mutation; and KRAS and PIK3CA mutations. Negative associations occurred between: MSI and CIN; MSI and NRAS mutation; and KRAS mutation, and each of NRAS, TP53 and BRAF mutations. Some complex relationships were elucidated: KRAS and TP53 mutations had both a direct negative association and a weaker, confounding, positive association via TP53–CIN–MSI–BRAF–KRAS. Our results suggested a new molecular classification of CRCs: (1) MSI+ and/or BRAF-mutant; (2) CIN+ and/or TP53– mutant, with wild-type KRAS and PIK3CA; (3) KRAS- and/or PIK3CA-mutant, CIN+, TP53-wild-type; (4) KRAS– and/or PIK3CA-mutant, CIN–, TP53-wild-type; (5) NRAS-mutant; (6) no mutations; (7) others. As expected, group 1 cancers were mostly proximal and poorly differentiated, usually occurring in women. Unexpectedly, two different types of CIN+ CRC were found: group 2 cancers were usually distal and occurred in men, whereas group 3 showed neither of these associations but were of higher stage. CIN+ cancers have conventionally been associated with all three of these variables, because they have been tested en masse. Our classification also showed potentially improved prognostic capabilities, with group 3, and possibly group 1, independently predicting disease-free survival. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enric Domingo
- Molecular and Population Genetics Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, UK
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Tapp HS, Commane DM, Bradburn DM, Arasaradnam R, Mathers JC, Johnson IT, Belshaw NJ. Nutritional factors and gender influence age-related DNA methylation in the human rectal mucosa. Aging Cell 2013; 12:148-55. [PMID: 23157586 PMCID: PMC3572581 DOI: 10.1111/acel.12030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant methylation of CpG islands (CGI) occurs in many genes expressed in colonic epithelial cells, and may contribute to the dysregulation of signalling pathways associated with carcinogenesis. This cross-sectional study assessed the relative importance of age, nutritional exposures and other environmental factors in the development of CGI methylation. Rectal biopsies were obtained from 185 individuals (84 male, 101 female) shown to be free of colorectal disease, and for whom measurements of age, body size, nutritional status and blood cell counts were available. We used quantitative DNA methylation analysis combined with multivariate modelling to investigate the relationships between nutritional, anthropometric and metabolic factors and the CGI methylation of 11 genes, together with LINE-1 as an index of global DNA methylation. Age was a consistent predictor of CGI methylation for 9/11 genes but significant positive associations with folate status and negative associations with vitamin D and selenium status were also identified for several genes. There was evidence for positive associations with blood monocyte levels and anthropometric factors for some genes. In general, CGI methylation was higher in males than in females and differential effects of age and other factors on methylation in males and females were identified. In conclusion, levels of age-related CGI methylation in the healthy human rectal mucosa are influenced by gender, the availability of folate, vitamin D and selenium, and perhaps by factors related to systemic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henri S. Tapp
- Institute of Food Research Norwich Research ParkNorwich NR4 7UAUK
| | - Daniel M. Commane
- Human Nutrition Research Centre Institute for Ageing and Health Campus for Ageing and Vitality Newcastle University Biomedical Research Building Newcastle on Tyne NE4 5PLUK
| | | | - Ramesh Arasaradnam
- Human Nutrition Research Centre Institute for Ageing and Health Campus for Ageing and Vitality Newcastle University Biomedical Research Building Newcastle on Tyne NE4 5PLUK
| | - John C. Mathers
- Human Nutrition Research Centre Institute for Ageing and Health Campus for Ageing and Vitality Newcastle University Biomedical Research Building Newcastle on Tyne NE4 5PLUK
| | - Ian T. Johnson
- Institute of Food Research Norwich Research ParkNorwich NR4 7UAUK
| | - Nigel J. Belshaw
- Institute of Food Research Norwich Research ParkNorwich NR4 7UAUK
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Expression Profiles in Stage II Colon Cancer According to APC Gene Status. Transl Oncol 2012; 5:72-6. [PMID: 22496922 DOI: 10.1593/tlo.11325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2011] [Revised: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 12/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Histoclinical staging is efficient, but combination with molecular markers may improve the classification of stage II cancers. Several tumor-suppressor genes have been associated with colorectal cancer, and the most frequent allelic losses have been extensively studied for their prognosis effect, but the results remain controversial. In a previous study, we found a possible influence of the chromosome 5 status in the development of liver metastases in stage II colon cancers. We have here investigated the role of the APC gene, located in chromosome arm 5q, in a series of 183 colon adenocarcinomas through a combined analysis of gene expression, mutation, allelic loss and promoter methylation, and metastasis occurrence. Point mutations were found in 73% of cases and allelic losses were found in 39%; 59% of tumors presented with a biallelic inactivation, with a very strong interdependence of the two APC hits (P = 2.1 x 10(-9)). No association was found between expression, number and type of APC alterations, and metastatic evolution. Our results show that the determination of APC status cannot help in the prediction of metastasis and cannot be used to subclassify stage II colon cancers.
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Mutations and epimutations in the origin of cancer. Exp Cell Res 2011; 318:299-310. [PMID: 22182599 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2011.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Revised: 12/02/2011] [Accepted: 12/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is traditionally viewed as a disease of abnormal cell proliferation controlled by a series of mutations. Mutations typically affect oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes thereby conferring growth advantage. Genomic instability facilitates mutation accumulation. Recent findings demonstrate that activation of oncogenes and inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, as well as genomic instability, can be achieved by epigenetic mechanisms as well. Unlike genetic mutations, epimutations do not change the base sequence of DNA and are potentially reversible. Similar to genetic mutations, epimutations are associated with specific patterns of gene expression that are heritable through cell divisions. Knudson's hypothesis postulates that inactivation of tumor suppressor genes requires two hits, with the first hit occurring either in somatic cells (sporadic cancer) or in the germline (hereditary cancer) and the second one always being somatic. Studies on hereditary and sporadic forms of colorectal carcinoma have made it evident that, apart from genetic mutations, epimutations may serve as either hit or both. Furthermore, recent next-generation sequencing studies show that epigenetic genes, such as those encoding histone modifying enzymes and subunits for chromatin remodeling systems, are themselves frequent targets of somatic mutations in cancer and can act like tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes. This review discusses genetic vs. epigenetic origin of cancer, including cancer susceptibility, in light of recent discoveries. Situations in which mutations and epimutations occur to serve analogous purposes are highlighted.
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Zhu G, Wang Y, Huang B, Liang J, Ding Y, Xu A, Wu W. A Rac1/PAK1 cascade controls β-catenin activation in colon cancer cells. Oncogene 2011; 31:1001-12. [PMID: 21822311 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2011.294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
P21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) is associated with colon cancer progression and metastasis, whereas the molecular mechanism remains elusive. Here, we show that downregulation of PAK1 in colon cancer cells reduces total β-catenin level, as well as cell proliferation. Mechanistically, PAK1 directly phosphorylates β-catenin proteins at Ser675 site and this leads to more stable and transcriptional active β-catenin. Corroborating these results, PAK1 is required for full Wnt signaling, and superactivation of β-catenin is achieved by simultaneous knockdown of adenomatous polyposis coli protein and activation of PAK1. Moreover, we show that Rac1 functions upstream of PAK1 in colon cancer cells and contributes to β-catenin phosphorylation and accumulation. We conclude that a Rac1/PAK1 cascade controls β-catenin S675 phosphorylation and full activation in colon cancer cells. Supporting this conclusion, overexpression of PAK1 is observed in 70% of colon cancer samples and is correlated with massive β-catenin accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Zhu
- Protein Science Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Inactivation of promoter 1B of APC causes partial gene silencing: evidence for a significant role of the promoter in regulation and causative of familial adenomatous polyposis. Oncogene 2011; 30:4977-89. [PMID: 21643010 PMCID: PMC3240859 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2011.201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is caused by germline mutations in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene. Two promoters, 1A and 1B, have been recognized in APC, and 1B is thought to have a minor role in the regulation of the gene. We have identified a novel deletion encompassing half of this promoter in the largest family (Family 1) of the Swedish Polyposis Registry. The mutation leads to an imbalance in allele-specific expression of APC, and transcription from promoter 1B was highly impaired in both normal colorectal mucosa and blood from mutation carriers. To establish the significance of promoter 1B in normal colorectal mucosa (from controls), expression levels of specific transcripts from each of the promoters, 1A and 1B, were examined, and the expression from 1B was significantly higher compared with 1A. Significant amounts of transcripts generated from promoter 1B were also determined in a panel of 20 various normal tissues examined. In FAP-related tumors, the APC germline mutation is proposed to dictate the second hit. Mutations leaving two or three out of seven 20-amino-acid repeats in the central domain of APC intact seem to be required for tumorigenesis. We examined adenomas from mutation carriers in Family 1 for second hits in the entire gene without any findings, however, loss of the residual expression of the deleterious allele was observed. Three major conclusions of significant importance in relation to the function of APC can be drawn from this study; (i) germline inactivation of promoter 1B is disease causing in FAP; (ii) expression of transcripts from promoter 1B is generated at considerable higher levels compared with 1A, demonstrating a hitherto unknown importance of 1B; (iii) adenoma formation in FAP, caused by impaired function of promoter 1B, does not require homozygous inactivation of APC allowing for alternative genetic models as basis for adenoma formation.
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McKay JA, Williams EA, Mathers JC. Effect of maternal and post-weaning folate supply on gene-specific DNA methylation in the small intestine of weaning and adult apc and wild type mice. Front Genet 2011; 2:23. [PMID: 22303319 PMCID: PMC3268578 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2011.00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2011] [Accepted: 05/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence supports the developmental origins of adult health and disease hypothesis which argues for a causal relationship between adverse early life nutrition and increased disease risk in adulthood. Modulation of epigenetic marks, e.g., DNA methylation and consequential altered gene expression, has been proposed as a mechanism mediating these effects. Via its role as a methyl donor, dietary folate supply may influence DNA methylation. As aberrant methylation is an early event in colorectal cancer (CRC) pathogenesis, we hypothesized low maternal and/or post-weaning folate intake may influence methylation of genes involved in CRC development. We investigated the effects of maternal folate depletion during pregnancy and lactation on selected gene methylation in the small intestine of wild type (WT) and Apc(+/Min) mice at weaning and as adults. We also investigated the effects of folate depletion post-weaning on gene methylation in adult mice. Female C57Bl6/J mice were fed low or normal folate diets from mating with Apc(+/Min) males to the end of lactation. A sub-set of offspring were killed at weaning. Remaining offspring were weaned on to low or normal folate diets, resulting in four treatment groups of Apc(+/Min) and WT mice. p53 was more methylated in weaning and adult WT compared with Apc(+/Min) mice (p > 0.001). Igf2 and Apc were hypermethylated in adult Apc(+/Min) compared with WT mice (p = 0.004 and 0.012 respectively). Low maternal folate reduced p53 methylation in adults (p = 0.04). Low post-weaning folate increased Apc methylation in Apc(+/Min) mice only (p = 0.008 for interaction). These observations demonstrate that folate depletion in early life can alter epigenetic marks in a gene-specific manner. Also, the differential effects of altered folate supply on DNA methylation in WT and Apc(+/Min) mice suggest that genotype may modulate epigenetic responses to environmental cues and may have implications for the development of personalized nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill A McKay
- Human Nutrition Research Centre, Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Okpanyi V, Schneider DT, Zahn S, Sievers S, Calaminus G, Nicholson JC, Palmer RD, Leuschner I, Borkhardt A, Schönberger S. Analysis of the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene in childhood and adolescent germ cell tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 56:384-91. [PMID: 21225915 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.22669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2010] [Accepted: 05/03/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant Wnt signaling due to deregulation of Wnt regulators is implicated in the development and progression of numerous embryonal tumors. This study addresses the questions if activation of Wnt signaling in germ cell tumors (GCTs) arising during childhood and adolescence is associated with aberrations of the tumor suppressor adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), and whether APC aberrations might be responsible for progression from benign teratoma to malignant yolk sac tumor (YST). PROCEDURE Forty-eight GCTs were analyzed, including mature (n = 5) and immature (n = 7) teratomas, mixed malignant GCTs (n = 10), YSTs (n = 17) as well as dysgerminomas (n = 9). To screen APC for genetic aberrations, we conducted direct sequencing of the mutation cluster region (MCR), loss of heterozygosity analyses (LOH) and protein truncation test. Epigenetic analyses included methylation specific PCR and bisulfite genomic sequencing of the APC 1a promoter. Gene expression was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS Aberrant promoter methylation was detected in YSTs, teratomas and mixed malignant GCTs, with a pronounced hypermethylation exclusively in YSTs (11/13) while dysgerminomas were not methylated (0/9). Teratomas (2/2) and YSTs (4/5) show LOH at the APC locus. However, neither mutations within the MCR nor truncated protein were detected. APC expression did not significantly vary between the different histological subgroups. CONCLUSIONS Methylation of APC and LOH 5q21-22 in YSTs and teratomas provide evidence for involvement of APC in the accumulation of β-catenin and activation of the WNT pathway. Our additional analyses suggest that APC is unlikely to be solely responsible for the formation and progression of childhood GCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Okpanyi
- University of Düsseldorf, Medical faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, University Children's Hospital Düsseldorf, D-40225 Dusseldorf, Germany
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Svedlund J, Aurén M, Sundström M, Dralle H, Akerström G, Björklund P, Westin G. Aberrant WNT/β-catenin signaling in parathyroid carcinoma. Mol Cancer 2010; 9:294. [PMID: 21078161 PMCID: PMC2993678 DOI: 10.1186/1476-4598-9-294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) is a very rare malignancy with a high tendency to recur locally, and recurrent disease is difficult to eradicate. In most western European countries and United States, these malignant neoplasms cause less than 1% of the cases with primary hyperparathyroidism, whereas incidence as high as 5% have been reported from Italy, Japan, and India. The molecular etiology of PC is poorly understood. Results The APC (adenomatous polyposis coli) tumor suppressor gene was inactivated by DNA methylation in five analyzed PCs, as determined by RT-PCR, Western blotting, and quantitative bisulfite pyrosequencing analyses. This was accompanied by accumulation of stabilized active nonphosphorylated β-catenin, strongly suggesting aberrant activation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway in these tumors. Treatment of a primary PC cell culture with the DNA hypomethylating agent 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (decitabine, Dacogen(r)) induced APC expression, reduced active nonphosphorylated β-catenin, inhibited cell growth, and caused apoptosis. Conclusion Aberrant WNT/β-catenin signaling by lost expression and DNA methylation of APC, and accumulation of active nonphosphorylated β-catenin was observed in the analyzed PCs. We suggest that adjuvant epigenetic therapy should be considered as an additional option in the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic parathyroid carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Svedlund
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Endocrine Unit, Uppsala University, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
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Obrador-Hevia A, Chin SF, González S, Rees J, Vilardell F, Greenson JK, Cordero D, Moreno V, Caldas C, Capellá G. Oncogenic KRAS is not necessary for Wnt signalling activation in APC-associated FAP adenomas. J Pathol 2010; 221:57-67. [PMID: 20196079 DOI: 10.1002/path.2685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested that APC loss alone may be insufficient to promote aberrant Wnt/beta-catenin signalling. Our aim was to comprehensively characterize Wnt signalling components in a set of APC-associated familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) tumours. Sixty adenomas from six FAP patients with known pathogenic APC mutations were included. Somatic APC and KRAS mutations, beta-catenin immunostaining, and qRT-PCR of APC, MYC, AXIN2 and SFRP1 were analysed. Array-comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) was also assessed in 26 FAP adenomas and 24 paired adenoma-carcinoma samples. A somatic APC alteration was present in 15 adenomas (LOH in 11 and four point mutations). KRAS mutations were detected in 10% of the cases. APC mRNA was overexpressed in adenomas. MYC and AXIN2 were also overexpressed, with significant intra-case heterogeneity. Increased cytoplasmic and/or nuclear beta-catenin staining was seen in 94% and 80% of the adenomas. beta-Catenin nuclear staining was strongly associated with MYC levels (p value 0.03) but not with KRAS mutations. Copy number aberrations were rare. However, the recurrent chromosome changes observed more frequently contained Wnt pathway genes (p value 0.012). Based on beta-catenin staining and Wnt pathway target genes alterations the Wnt pathway appears to be constitutively activated in all APC-FAP tumours, with alterations occurring both upstream and downstream of APC. Wnt aberrations are present at both the DNA and the RNA level. Somatic profiling of APC-FAP tumours provides new insights into the role of APC in tumourigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antònia Obrador-Hevia
- Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut Universitari d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut (IUNICS)-Universitat de les Illes Balears, Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
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Belshaw NJ, Pal N, Tapp HS, Dainty JR, Lewis MPN, Williams MR, Lund EK, Johnson IT. Patterns of DNA methylation in individual colonic crypts reveal aging and cancer-related field defects in the morphologically normal mucosa. Carcinogenesis 2010; 31:1158-63. [PMID: 20395289 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgq077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylation of CpG islands (CGIs) in the promoter regions of tumour suppressor genes is common in colorectal cancer and occurs also in an age-dependent manner in the morphologically normal colorectal mucosa. In this study, we quantified the level of methylation of six genes associated with the Wnt signalling pathway (adenomatous polyposis coli, DKK1, WIF1, SFRP1, SFRP2 and SFRP5) together with long-interspersed nuclear element-1 as a surrogate for global methylation. DNA methylation was analysed in 260 individual colorectal crypts obtained from eight female patients with no evidence of colorectal disease and five with colorectal cancer. Significant variation in methylation levels for each of the six genes existed between crypts from the same biopsy. The variation in both global and gene-specific CGI methylation between crypts from the same individual was significantly less than that between individuals. Bisulphite sequencing provided insight into the mechanism of aberrant methylation showing that CGI methylation occurs in an 'all-or-none' manner by the directional spreading of methylation from further upstream. Univariate statistical analyses revealed that there were significant differences in crypt-specific methylation associated with both aging and disease status. A multivariate statistical modelling approach was able to distinguish both subject age and health status based on crypt-specific methylation profiles. Our results indicate that the differential methylation of genes associated with the Wnt signalling pathway affecting individual morphologically normal crypts may contribute to the age-dependent generation of the colonic field defect and, in combination with mutations, to the stepwise development of colorectal neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel J Belshaw
- Institute of Food Research, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UA, UK.
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Frequent promoter hypermethylation of the APC and RASSF1A tumour suppressors in parathyroid tumours. PLoS One 2010; 5:e9472. [PMID: 20208994 PMCID: PMC2830427 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0009472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2009] [Accepted: 02/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Parathyroid adenomas constitute the most common entity in primary hyperparathyroidism, and although recent advances have been made regarding the underlying genetic cause of these lesions, very little data on epigenetic alterations in this tumour type exists. In this study, we have determined the levels of promoter methylation regarding the four tumour suppressor genes APC, RASSF1A, p16INK4A and RAR-β in parathyroid adenomas. In addition, the levels of global methylation were assessed by analyzing LINE-1 repeats. Methodology/Principal Findings The sample collection consisted of 55 parathyroid tumours with known HRPT2 and/or MEN1 genotypes. Using Pyrosequencing analysis, we demonstrate APC promoter 1A and RASSF1A promoter hypermethylation in the majority of parathyroid tumours (71% and 98%, respectively). Using TaqMan qRT-PCR, all tumours analyzed displayed lower RASSF1A mRNA expression and higher levels of total APC mRNA than normal parathyroid, the latter of which was largely conferred by augmented APC 1B transcription levels. Hypermethylation of p16INK4A was demonstrated in a single adenoma, whereas RAR-β hypermethylation was not observed in any sample. Moreover, based on LINE-1 analyses, parathyroid tumours exhibited global methylation levels within the range of non-neoplastic parathyroid tissues. Conclusions/Significance The results demonstrate that APC and RASSF1A promoter hypermethylation are common events in parathyroid tumours. While RASSF1A mRNA levels were found downregulated in all tumours investigated, APC gene expression was retained through APC 1B mRNA levels. These findings suggest the involvement of the Ras signaling pathway in parathyroid tumorigenesis. Additionally, in contrast to most other human cancers, parathyroid tumours were not characterized by global hypomethylation, as parathyroid tumours exhibited LINE-1 methylation levels similar to that of normal parathyroid tissues.
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GARRE P, DE LA HOYA M, INIESTA P, ROMERA A, LLOVET P, GONZALEZ S, PEREZ-SEGURA P, CAPELLA G, DIAZ-RUBIO E, CALDES T. APC Yin-Yang haplotype associated with colorectal cancer risk. Exp Ther Med 2010; 1:879-883. [DOI: 10.3892/etm.2010.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2010] [Accepted: 07/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Cheng Y, Zhang C, Zhao J, Wang C, Xu Y, Han Z, Jiang G, Guo X, Li R, Bu X, Wu M, Wei L. Correlation of CpG island methylator phenotype with poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Exp Mol Pathol 2009; 88:112-7. [PMID: 19879258 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2009.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2009] [Revised: 10/16/2009] [Accepted: 10/20/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP), in which multiple genes are concurrently methylated, is an important mechanism in hepatocellular carcinoma development. We determined a hypermethylation profile in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We examined the promoter methylation status of 10 genes in 60 cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), 60 cases of paired non-tumor tissues, and 6 cases of normal tissues by methylation-specific PCR. The average methylated gene numbers were significantly different between HCC and nontumor tissues (p<0.001). We found metastasis, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage were significantly different among patients with different CIMP status. Patients with high frequency CIMP tumors had significantly worse survival than patients with intermediate frequency or no CIMP tumors (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively). Our results suggested that CIMP could serve as a molecular marker of late stage and poorly prognostic HCC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Cheng
- Tumor Immunology and Gene Therapy Center, Eastern Hepatobiliary Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 225 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, China
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Vincent A, Van Seuningen I. Epigenetics, stem cells and epithelial cell fate. Differentiation 2009; 78:99-107. [PMID: 19632029 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2009.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2009] [Accepted: 07/07/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Establishment and maintenance of epigenetic profiles are essential steps of development during which stem cells, despite identical genetic information, will acquire different and selective gene expression patterns, specific for their fate. This highly complex programming process involves mechanisms that are not yet completely understood although it has been established over the past few years that chromatin modifier enzymes (i.e. DNA and histone methyltransferases, histone deacetylases, histone demethylases, histone acetyltransferases) play essential roles in the establishment of transcriptional programs accompanying cell differentiation. Investigators in this field have been studying a wide variety of cell types including neural, muscular, mesenchymal and blood cells. This review will focus on epithelial cells of the digestive tract, intestinal stem cell niches being a model of choice to understand how epigenetic changes can drive nuclear programming and specific cell differentiation. Moreover, deregulation of epigenetic programming is frequently observed in human tumours and therefore, decoding these molecular mechanisms is essential to better understand both developmental and cancerous processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Vincent
- Inserm, U837, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Team 5 Mucins, epithelial differentiation and carcinogenesis, Place de Verdun, 59045 Lille Cedex, France
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Hsiao SH, Huang THM, Leu YW. Excavating relics of DNA methylation changes during the development of neoplasia. Semin Cancer Biol 2009; 19:198-208. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2009.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2009] [Accepted: 02/15/2009] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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