1
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Testicular germ cell tumors: Genomic alternations and RAS-dependent signaling. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 183:103928. [PMID: 36717007 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.103928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are a common malignancy occurring in young adult men. The various genetic risk factors have been suggested to contribute to TGCT pathogenesis, however, they have a distinct mutational profile with a low rate of somatic point mutations, more frequent chromosomal gains, and aneuploidy. The most frequently mutated oncogenes in human cancers are RAS oncogenes, while their impact on testicular carcinogenesis and refractory disease is still poorly understood. In this mini-review, we summarize current knowledge on genetic alternations of RAS signaling-associated genes (the single nucleotide polymorphisms and point mutations) in this particular cancer type and highlight their link to chemotherapy resistance mechanisms. We also mention the impact of epigenetic changes on TGCT progression. Lastly, we propose a model for RAS-dependent signaling networks, regulation, cross-talks, and outcomes in TGCTs.
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2
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Jhuang YL, Yang CW, Tseng YF, Hsu CL, Li HY, Yuan RH, Jeng YM. SIN3-HDAC complex-associated factor, a chromatin remodelling gene located in the 12p amplicon, is a potential germ cell tumour-specific oncogene. J Pathol 2022; 258:353-365. [PMID: 36056608 DOI: 10.1002/path.6007] [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] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
A genetic hallmark of malignant germ cell tumours (GCTs) is isochromosome 12p, but oncogenes located in 12p that are specifically expressed in GCT have not yet been identified. SIN3-HDAC complex-associated factor (SINHCAF) is a subunit of the Sin3/histone deacetylase (HDAC) complex, and it defines a Sin3a-Hdac complex variant that is required for the self-renewal of mouse embryonic stem cells. This study demonstrated that SINHCAF is expressed in a vast majority of malignant GCTs and is rarely expressed in somatic malignancy. Fluorescence in situ hybridisation revealed SINHCAF amplification in malignant GCTs. SINHCAF silencing using shRNA reduced anchorage-dependent cell proliferation and tumoursphere formation and inhibited tumour cell migration and invasion in GCT cell lines. Moreover, in the GCT cell line NTERA2/D1, SINHCAF silencing inhibited the expression of genes associated with embryonic stem cells and induced the expression of genes associated with neuronal and white fat cell differentiation. Compared with somatic cell lines, GCT cell lines were more susceptible to HDAC inhibitor treatment. Thus, we identified SINHCAF to be a potential oncogene located in the amplicon of chromosome 12p and showed that SINHCAF was specifically expressed in malignant GCTs. HDAC inhibitor treatment may counteract the oncogenic activity of SINHCAF and is a promising therapeutic approach for GCTs. © 2022 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ling Jhuang
- Graduate Institute of Pathology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Wei Yang
- Graduate Institute of Pathology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Fen Tseng
- Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Lang Hsu
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Ying Li
- Medical Microbiota Center of the First Core Laboratory, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ray-Hwang Yuan
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Hsinchu Branch, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Ming Jeng
- Graduate Institute of Pathology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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3
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Psaras AM, Valiuska S, Noé V, Ciudad CJ, Brooks TA. Targeting KRAS Regulation with PolyPurine Reverse Hoogsteen Oligonucleotides. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2097. [PMID: 35216221 PMCID: PMC8876201 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
KRAS is a GTPase involved in the proliferation signaling of several growth factors. The KRAS gene is GC-rich, containing regions with known and putative G-quadruplex (G4) forming regions. Within the middle of the G-rich proximal promoter, stabilization of the physiologically active G4mid structure downregulates transcription of KRAS; the function and formation of other G4s within the gene are unknown. Herein we identify three putative G4-forming sequences (G4FS) within the KRAS gene, explore their G4 formation, and develop oligonucleotides targeting these three regions and the G4mid forming sequence. We tested Polypurine Reverse Hoogsteen hairpins (PPRHs) for their effects on KRAS regulation via enhancing G4 formation or displacing G-rich DNA strands, downregulating KRAS transcription and mediating an anti-proliferative effect. Five PPRH were designed, two against the KRAS promoter G4mid and three others against putative G4FS in the distal promoter, intron 1 and exon 5. PPRH binding was confirmed by gel electrophoresis. The effect on KRAS transcription was examined by luciferase, FRET Melt2, qRT-PCR. Cytotoxicity was evaluated in pancreatic and ovarian cancer cells. PPRHs decreased activity of a luciferase construct driven by the KRAS promoter. PPRH selectively suppressed proliferation in KRAS dependent cancer cells. PPRH demonstrated synergistic activity with a KRAS promoter selective G4-stabilizing compound, NSC 317605, in KRAS-dependent pancreatic cells. PPRHs selectively stabilize G4 formation within the KRAS mid promoter region and represent an innovative approach to both G4-stabilization and to KRAS modulation with potential for development into novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Maria Psaras
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA;
| | - Simonas Valiuska
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, & IN2UB, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (S.V.); (V.N.); (C.J.C.)
| | - Véronique Noé
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, & IN2UB, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (S.V.); (V.N.); (C.J.C.)
| | - Carlos J. Ciudad
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, & IN2UB, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (S.V.); (V.N.); (C.J.C.)
| | - Tracy A. Brooks
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA;
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4
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Raos D, Abramović I, Tomić M, Vrtarić A, Kuliš T, Ćorić M, Ulamec M, Katušić Bojanac A, Ježek D, Sinčić N. CNV Hotspots in Testicular Seminoma Tissue and Seminal Plasma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:189. [PMID: 35008352 PMCID: PMC8750740 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Seminoma (SE) is the most frequent type of testicular tumour, affecting predominantly young men. Early detection and diagnosis of SE could significantly improve life quality and reproductive health after diagnosis and treatment. Copy number variation (CNV) has already been associated with various cancers as well as SE. In this study, we selected four genes (MAGEC2, NANOG, RASSF1A, and KITLG) for CNV analysis in genomic DNA (gDNA), which are located on chromosomes susceptible to gains, and whose aberrant expression was already detected in SE. Furthermore, CNV was analysed in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from seminal plasma. Analysis was performed by droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) on gDNA from SE and nonmalignant testicular tissue. Seminal plasma cfDNA from SE patients before and after surgery was analysed, as well as from healthy volunteers. The CNV hotspot in gDNA from SE tissue was detected for the first time in all analysed genes, and for two genes, NANOG and KITLG it was reflected in cfDNA from seminal plasma. Although clinical value is yet to be determined, presented data emphasize a potential use of CNV as a potential SE biomarker from a liquid biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Raos
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Irena Abramović
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Miroslav Tomić
- Department of Urology, University Clinical Hospital Centre “Sestre Milosrdnice”, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Alen Vrtarić
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Clinical Hospital Centre “Sestre Milosrdnice”, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Tomislav Kuliš
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marijana Ćorić
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Ulamec
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Clinical Hospital Centre “Sestre Milosrdnice”, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pathology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Katušić Bojanac
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Davor Ježek
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nino Sinčić
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
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5
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King J, Adra N, Einhorn LH. Testicular cancer: Biology to bedside. Cancer Res 2021; 81:5369-5376. [PMID: 34380632 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-1452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Testicular cancer is the first solid tumor with a remarkably high cure rate. This success was only made possible through collaborative efforts of basic and clinical research. Most patients with distant metastases can be cured. However, the majority of these patients are diagnosed at a young age, leaving many decades for the development of treatment-related complications. This has magnified the importance of research into survivorship issues after exposure to platinum-based chemotherapy. This research, along with research into newer biomarkers that will aid in the diagnosis and surveillance of patients and survivors of testicular cancer, will continue to advance the field and provide new opportunities for these patients. There also remains the need for further therapeutic options for patients who unfortunately do not respond to standard treatment regimens and ultimately die from this disease, including a cohort of patients with late relapses and platinum-refractory disease. Here we discuss the advancements in management that led to a highly curable malignancy, while highlighting difficult situations still left to solve as well as emerging research into novel biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer King
- Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine
| | - Nabil Adra
- Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine
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6
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Pantaleo MA, Mandruzzato M, Indio V, Urbini M, Nannini M, Gatto L, Schipani A, Fiorentino M, Franceschini T, Ambrosini V, Di Scioscio V, Saponara M, Ianni M, Concetti S, Altimari A, Ardizzoni A, Astolfi A. Case Report: The Complete Remission of a Mixed Germ Cell Tumor With Somatic Type Malignancy of Sarcoma Type With a GCT-Oriented Therapy: Clinical Findings and Genomic Profiling. Front Oncol 2021; 11:633543. [PMID: 33796464 PMCID: PMC8008106 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.633543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic malignant transformation in a germ cell tumor (GCT) is the development of non-germ malignancies; much of available literature refers to teratoma with malignant transformation (TMT). There are various transformation histologies such as sarcoma, adenocarcinoma, primitive neuroectodermal tumors, and more rarely carcinoid tumors, hemangioendothelioma, lymphoma, or nephroblastoma. The treatments of these entities include surgery and/or chemotherapy. A standard approach in choosing chemotherapy in TMT cases has not yet been established. Many authors suggest using chemotherapeutic agents based on the transformed histology, while others recommend GCT-oriented therapy combined with surgery as the primary treatment, reserving histology-driven chemotherapies for metastatic relapse. We report the clinical findings and the genomic profile of a mixed GCT case with somatic-type malignancy of sarcoma type. We achieved a complete radiological response with GCT-oriented chemotherapy performed as salvage therapy after sarcoma-histology therapy. In addition, molecular profiles with RNA-sequencing and exome sequencing analyses of the primary tumor and the tumor with somatic-type malignancy of sarcoma type were explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Pantaleo
- Division of Oncology, IRCSS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,"Giorgio Prodi Cancer Research Center" and Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marcella Mandruzzato
- Division of Oncology, IRCSS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valentina Indio
- "Giorgio Prodi Cancer Research Center" and Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Milena Urbini
- Biosciences Laboratory, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Margherita Nannini
- Division of Oncology, IRCSS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lidia Gatto
- Division of Oncology, IRCSS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Angela Schipani
- "Giorgio Prodi Cancer Research Center" and Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Tania Franceschini
- Metropolitan Department of Pathology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valentina Ambrosini
- Division of Nuclear Medicine Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valerio Di Scioscio
- Division of Radiology Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maristella Saponara
- Division of Oncology, IRCSS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Ianni
- "Giorgio Prodi Cancer Research Center" and Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sergio Concetti
- UOC Urologia, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL), Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Altimari
- Division of Laboratory of Oncologic Molecular Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Ardizzoni
- Division of Oncology, IRCSS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,"Giorgio Prodi Cancer Research Center" and Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Astolfi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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7
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Raos D, Krasic J, Masic S, Abramovic I, Coric M, Kruslin B, Katusic Bojanac A, Bulic-Jakus F, Jezek D, Ulamec M, Sincic N. In Search of TGCT Biomarkers: A Comprehensive In Silico and Histopathological Analysis. DISEASE MARKERS 2020; 2020:8841880. [PMID: 33224314 PMCID: PMC7666710 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8841880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are ever more affecting the young male population. Germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) is the origin of TGCTs, namely, seminomas (SE) and a heterogeneous group of nonseminomas (NS) comprising embryonal carcinoma, teratoma, yolk sac tumor, and choriocarcinoma. Response to the treatment and prognosis, especially of NS, depend on precise diagnosis with a necessity for discovery of new biomarkers. We aimed to perform comprehensive in silico analysis at the DNA, RNA, and protein levels of six prospective (HOXA9, MGMT, CFC1, PRSS21, RASSF1A, and MAGEC2) and six known TGCT biomarkers (OCT4, SOX17, SOX2, SALL4, NANOG, and KIT) and assess its congruence with histopathological analysis in all forms of TGCTs. Cancer Hallmarks Analytics Tool, the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database, and UALCAN, an interactive web resource for analyzing cancer OMICS data, were used. In 108 TGCT and 48 tumor-free testicular samples, the immunoreactivity score (IRS) was calculated. SE showed higher frequency in DNA alteration, while DNA methylation was significantly higher for all prospective biomarkers in NS. In GCNIS, we assessed the clinical positivity of RASSF1 and PRSS21 in 52% and 62% of samples, respectively, in contrast to low or nil positivity in healthy seminiferous tubules, TGTCs as a group, SE, NS, or all NS components. Although present in approximately 80% of healthy seminiferous tubules (HT) and GCNIS, HOXA9 was diagnostically positive in 64% of TGCTs, while it was positive in 82% of NS versus 29% of SE. Results at the DNA, mRNA, and protein levels on putative and already known biomarkers were included in the suggested panels that may prove to be important for better diagnostics of various forms of TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Raos
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jure Krasic
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Silvija Masic
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Vinogradska Cesta 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Irena Abramovic
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marijana Coric
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Kišpatićeva Ulica 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Bozo Kruslin
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Vinogradska Cesta 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Katusic Bojanac
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Floriana Bulic-Jakus
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Davor Jezek
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Ulamec
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Vinogradska Cesta 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pathology, University of Zagreb School of Dental Medicine and School of Medicine, Gundulićeva Ulica 5, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nino Sincic
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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8
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Looijenga LH, Van der Kwast TH, Grignon D, Egevad L, Kristiansen G, Kao CS, Idrees MT. Report From the International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) Consultation Conference on Molecular Pathology of Urogenital Cancers: IV: Current and Future Utilization of Molecular-Genetic Tests for Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Am J Surg Pathol 2020; 44:e66-e79. [PMID: 32205480 PMCID: PMC7289140 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) organized a Consultation Conference in March 2019 dealing with applications of molecular pathology in Urogenital Pathology, including testicular tumors (with a focus on germ cell tumors [GCTs]), preceded by a survey among its members to get insight into current practices in testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) diagnostics and adoption of the ISUP immunohistochemical guidelines published in 2014. On the basis of the premeeting survey, the most commonly used immunomarker panel includes OCT3/4, placental alkaline phosphate, D2-40, SALL4, CD117, and CD30 for GCTs and the documentation of germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS). Molecular testing, specifically 12p copy gain, is informative to distinguish non-GCNIS versus GCNIS related GCTs, and establishing germ cell origin of tumors both in the context of primary and metastatic lesions. Other molecular methodologies currently available but not widely utilized for TGCTs include genome-wide and targeted approaches for specific genetic anomalies, P53 mutations, genomic MDM2 amplification, and detection of the p53 inactivating miR-371a-3p. The latter also holds promise as a serum marker for malignant TGCTs. This manuscript provides an update on the classification of TGCTs, and describes the current and future role of molecular-genetic testing. The following recommendations are made: (1) Presence of GCNIS should be documented in all cases along with extent of spermatogenesis; (2) Immunohistochemical staining is optional in the following scenarios: identification of GCNIS, distinguishing embryonal carcinoma from seminoma, confirming presence of yolk sac tumor and/or choriocarcinoma, and differentiating spermatocytic tumor from potential mimics; (3) Detection of gain of the short arm of chromosome 12 is diagnostic to differentiate between non-GCNIS versus GCNIS related GCTs and supportive to the germ cell origin of both primary and metastatic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lars Egevad
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | - Glen Kristiansen
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Chia-Sui Kao
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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9
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Heskett MB, Sanborn JZ, Boniface C, Goode B, Chapman J, Garg K, Rabban JT, Zaloudek C, Benz SC, Spellman PT, Solomon DA, Cho RJ. Multiregion exome sequencing of ovarian immature teratomas reveals 2N near-diploid genomes, paucity of somatic mutations, and extensive allelic imbalances shared across mature, immature, and disseminated components. Mod Pathol 2020; 33:1193-1206. [PMID: 31911616 PMCID: PMC7286805 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-019-0446-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Immature teratoma is a subtype of malignant germ cell tumor of the ovary that occurs most commonly in the first three decades of life, frequently with bilateral ovarian disease. Despite being the second most common malignant germ cell tumor of the ovary, little is known about its genetic underpinnings. Here we performed multiregion whole-exome sequencing to interrogate the genetic zygosity, clonal relationship, DNA copy number, and mutational status of 52 pathologically distinct tumor components from ten females with ovarian immature teratomas, with bilateral tumors present in five cases and peritoneal dissemination in seven cases. We found that ovarian immature teratomas are genetically characterized by 2N near-diploid genomes with extensive loss of heterozygosity and an absence of genes harboring recurrent somatic mutations or known oncogenic variants. All components within a single ovarian tumor (immature teratoma, mature teratoma with different histologic patterns of differentiation, and yolk sac tumor) were found to harbor an identical pattern of loss of heterozygosity across the genome, indicating a shared clonal origin. In contrast, the four analyzed bilateral teratomas showed distinct patterns of zygosity changes in the right versus left sided tumors, indicating independent clonal origins. All disseminated teratoma components within the peritoneum (including gliomatosis peritonei) shared a clonal pattern of loss of heterozygosity with either the right or left primary ovarian tumor. The observed genomic loss of heterozygosity patterns indicate that diverse meiotic errors contribute to the formation of ovarian immature teratomas, with 11 out of the 15 genetically distinct clones determined to result from nondisjunction errors during meiosis I or II. Overall, these findings suggest that copy-neutral loss of heterozygosity resulting from meiotic abnormalities may be sufficient to generate ovarian immature teratomas from germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B. Heskett
- Department of Molecular & Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | - Christopher Boniface
- Department of Molecular & Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Benjamin Goode
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jocelyn Chapman
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karuna Garg
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Joseph T. Rabban
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Charles Zaloudek
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Paul T. Spellman
- Department of Molecular & Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - David A. Solomon
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed: David A. Solomon, MD, PhD, Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Ave, Health Sciences West 451, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States, Ph: (415) 514-9761, , Raymond J. Cho, MD, PhD, Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero Street, 3rd floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States, Ph: (415) 650-5208,
| | - Raymond J. Cho
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed: David A. Solomon, MD, PhD, Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Ave, Health Sciences West 451, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States, Ph: (415) 514-9761, , Raymond J. Cho, MD, PhD, Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero Street, 3rd floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States, Ph: (415) 650-5208,
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10
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Reynolds JP, Liu S. Fine needle aspiration of mediastinal germ cell tumors. Semin Diagn Pathol 2020; 37:174-178. [PMID: 32444243 DOI: 10.1053/j.semdp.2020.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Germ cell tumors in the mediastinum are rare and often occur in young patients but may occur in older patients. Seminoma, embryonal carcinoma, yolk sac tumor, choriocarcinoma and teratoma have distinct morphologic features with high grade nuclei. They are the primary diagnostic consideration in young males but may be lower on the list in older patients, where they may be misdiagnosed as carcinomas. Review of the history, use of immunohistochemistry stains and recognition of morphologic features will help to make the diagnosis of germ cell tumor of the mediastinum. These tumors have a good to intermediate prognosis, depending on when they are detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan P Reynolds
- Robert J. Tomsich Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.
| | - Shiguang Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine University of Florida-Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL
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11
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Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization Analysis for 12p Alterations in Sarcomatoid Yolk Sac Tumors. Am J Surg Pathol 2020; 43:1566-1573. [PMID: 31478941 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
"Sarcomas" in patients with testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) are a common form of "somatic-type malignancy." There is support, based on morphology and immunohistochemistry, that many such sarcomatous tumors represent an unusual form of yolk sac tumor (YST). A virtually universal chromosomal anomaly in GCTs is increase in 12p copy number, often in the form of isochromosome 12p [i(12p)], but this aspect of sarcomatoid YSTs has not hitherto been studied. We performed interphase fluorescent in situ hybridization assay for detection of increased 12p copy number in sarcomatoid YSTs using a bacterial artificial chromosome-derived probe localized to 12p12.1 and a commercially available centromeric probe. Sixteen formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens from 11 patients, along with normal controls, were studied. Overrepresentation of 12p was expressed as a ratio between the number of signals for 12p and the number of signals for centromere 12. A ratio ≥1.3 was considered overrepresentation. All cases were postchemotherapy recurrences or metastases. Ages ranged 22 to 38 years (mean: 36). Most tumors (12/16) showed myxoid or fibromyxoid stroma and 15 of 16 were high grade. Thirteen of 16 specimens (81%) showed overrepresentation of 12p by the above criteria. Two cases exhibited loss of 12p and 1 case had gain of a whole chromosome 12 (trisomy 12). We conclude that, as in other GCTs, sarcomatous differentiation of YST demonstrates 12p alterations that can be identified by interphase fluorescent in situ hybridization. Apart from 12p overrepresentation, these tumors may exhibit loss of 12p or even gain of an entire chromosome 12 (trisomy 12). Increase in 12p copy number of a sarcomatous neoplasm provides support for sarcomatoid YST in clinically ambiguous settings.
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12
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Predicting Gonadal Germ Cell Cancer in People with Disorders of Sex Development; Insights from Developmental Biology. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205017. [PMID: 31658757 PMCID: PMC6834166 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The risk of gonadal germ cell cancer (GGCC) is increased in selective subgroups, amongst others, defined patients with disorders of sex development (DSD). The increased risk is due to the presence of part of the Y chromosome, i.e., GonadoBlastoma on Y chromosome GBY region, as well as anatomical localization and degree of testicularization and maturation of the gonad. The latter specifically relates to the germ cells present being at risk when blocked in an embryonic stage of development. GGCC originates from either germ cell neoplasia in situ (testicular environment) or gonadoblastoma (ovarian-like environment). These precursors are characterized by presence of the markers OCT3/4 (POU5F1), SOX17, NANOG, as well as TSPY, and cKIT and its ligand KITLG. One of the aims is to stratify individuals with an increased risk based on other parameters than histological investigation of a gonadal biopsy. These might include evaluation of defined susceptibility alleles, as identified by Genome Wide Association Studies, and detailed evaluation of the molecular mechanism underlying the DSD in the individual patient, combined with DNA, mRNA, and microRNA profiling of liquid biopsies. This review will discuss the current opportunities as well as limitations of available knowledge in the context of predicting the risk of GGCC in individual patients.
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13
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A Clinicopathologic and Molecular Analysis of 34 Mediastinal Germ Cell Tumors Suggesting Different Modes of Teratoma Development. Am J Surg Pathol 2018; 42:1662-1673. [DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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14
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Hematologic Malignancies Associated With Mediastinal Germ Cell Tumors: 10 Years' Experience at Thailand's National Pediatric Tertiary Referral Center. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2018; 40:450-455. [PMID: 29864110 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000001233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mediastinal germ cell tumor (MGCT), which accounts for 1% to 3% of extragonadal germ cell tumors, has unique manifestations; it is associated with several types of hematologic malignancy, particularly myeloid neoplasm. The aim of this study was to report the 10-year incidence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of MGCT at Thailand's national pediatric tertiary referral center. This retrospective study included patients diagnosed with MGCT at the Department of Pediatrics, Siriraj Hospital during 2005 to 2014. Eight patients (all male) were diagnosed with MGCT. Five of 8 patients were found to have hematologic abnormalities. Three patients were diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) (one patient with M1, another having M7, and the other with M0). Another patient had mixed MGCT with mediastinal myeloid sarcoma (MMS). The other patient had malignancy-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis syndrome (M-HLH). Isochromosome 12p was detected in 3 patients (AML [2], mixed MGCT/MMS [1]). Four of 5 patients with hematologic abnormalities died of hematologic abnormalities or treatment complication (AML [3], M-HLH [1]). One patient with mixed MGCT/MMS survived with chemotherapy. All patients with AML and MMS were nonseminomatous MGCT and the onset of myeloid malignancies were within 1 year after the diagnosis of MGCT. Associated hematologic malignancies should be suspected in MGCT with abnormal blood count or hematologic symptoms. Isochromosome 12p was the most common cytogenetic finding in MGCT-associated myeloid malignancies patients. Those with nonseminomatous MGCT should have their blood count carefully monitored especially during the first year after the diagnosis of MGCT. Better treatment alternatives for MGCT with associated hematologic malignancies are warranted to ameliorate adverse outcomes.
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15
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Fukawa T, Kanayama HO. Current knowledge of risk factors for testicular germ cell tumors. Int J Urol 2018; 25:337-344. [PMID: 29345008 DOI: 10.1111/iju.13519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The development of the human gonads is tightly regulated by the correct sequential expression of many genes and hormonal activity. Disturbance of this regulation does not only prevent proper development of the gonads, but it also contributes to the development of testicular germ cell tumors. Recent genetic studies, especially genome-wide association studies, have made great progress in understanding genetic susceptibility. Although there is strong evidence of inherited risks, many environmental factors also contribute to the development of testicular germ cell tumors. Histopathological studies have shown that most testicular germ cell tumors arise from germ cell neoplasia in situ, which is thought to be arrested and transformed primordial germ cells. Seminoma has features identical to germ cell neoplasia in situ or primordial germ cells, whereas non-seminoma shows varied differentiation. Seminomas and embryonic cell carcinomas have the feature of pluripotency, which is thought to be the cause of histological heterogeneity and mixed pathology in testicular germ cell tumors. Testicular germ cell tumors show high sensitivity to chemotherapies, but 20-30% of patients show resistance to standard chemotherapy. In the present review, the current knowledge of the epidemiological and genomic factors for the development of testicular germ cell tumors is reviewed, and the mechanisms of resistance to chemotherapies are briefly mentioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Fukawa
- Department of Urology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hiro-Omi Kanayama
- Department of Urology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
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16
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Loss of miR-514a-3p regulation of PEG3 activates the NF-kappa B pathway in human testicular germ cell tumors. Cell Death Dis 2017; 8:e2759. [PMID: 28471449 PMCID: PMC5520681 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Deregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) contributes to the development and progression of many cancer types; however, their functions in the pathogenesis of testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) remain unclear. Here, we determined miRNA expression profiles of TGCTs and normal testes using small RNA sequencing, and identified several deregulated miRNAs in TGCTs, including the miR-506~514 cluster. In functional studies in vitro we demonstrated that miR-514a-3p induced apoptosis through direct regulation of the paternally expressed gene 3 (PEG3), and ectopically expressed PEG3 could rescue the apoptotic effect of miR-514a-3p overexpression. Silencing of PEG3 or miR-514a-3p overexpression reduced nuclear accumulation of p50 and NF-κB reporter activity. Furthermore, PEG3 was co-immunoprecipitated with tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2) in TGCT cell lysates. We propose a model of PEG3-mediated activation of NF-κB in TGCT. Loss of miR-514a-3p expression in TGCT increases PEG3 expression that recruits TRAF2 and activates the NF-kappa B pathway, which protects germ cells from apoptosis. Importantly, we observed strong expression of PEG3 and nuclear p50 in the majority of TGCTs (83% and 78%, respectively). In conclusion, our study describes a novel function for miR-514a-3p in TGCT and highlights an unrecognized mechanism of PEG3 regulation and NF-κB activation in TGCT.
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17
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Abstract
This article reviews the most frequently encountered tumor of the testis; pure and mixed malignant testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT), with emphasis on adult (postpubertal) TGCTs and their differential diagnoses. We additionally review TGCT in the postchemotherapy setting, and findings to be integrated into the surgical pathology report, including staging of testicular tumors and other problematic issues. The clinical features, gross pathologic findings, key histologic features, common differential diagnoses, the use of immunohistochemistry, and molecular alterations in TGCTs are discussed.
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18
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Monn MF, Jaqua KR, Bihrle R, Cheng L. Primary Choriocarcinoma of the Bladder: A Case Report and Review of Literature. Clin Genitourin Cancer 2016; 15:188-191. [PMID: 27793609 DOI: 10.1016/j.clgc.2016.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Primary choriocarcinoma of the urinary bladder is a rare entity, and should be distinguished from urothelial carcinoma with trophoblastic differentiation. The leading treatment modalities include surgical extirpation, chemotherapy, and radiation; however, survival remains poor. Herein we describe a rare case of choriocarcinoma of the bladder in a man who presented for evaluation with hematuria and subsequently underwent radical cystectomy with urinary diversion. Diagnosis of extragonadal germ cell tumor was confirmed using fluorescence in situ hybridization identification of isochromosome 12p.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Francesca Monn
- Department of Urology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Kaitlin R Jaqua
- Department of Urology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Richard Bihrle
- Department of Urology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Liang Cheng
- Department of Urology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN.
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19
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The genomic landscape of testicular germ cell tumours: from susceptibility to treatment. Nat Rev Urol 2016; 13:409-19. [PMID: 27296647 DOI: 10.1038/nrurol.2016.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The genomic landscape of testicular germ cell tumour (TGCT) can be summarized using four overarching hypotheses. Firstly, TGCT risk is dominated by inherited genetic factors, which determine nearly half of all disease risk and are highly polygenic in nature. Secondly KIT-KITLG signalling is currently the major pathway that is implicated in TGCT formation, both as a predisposition risk factor and a somatic driver event. Results from genome-wide association studies have also consistently suggested that other closely related pathways involved in male germ cell development and sex determination are associated with TGCT risk. Thirdly, the method of disease formation is unique, with tumours universally stemming from a noninvasive precursor lesion, probably of fetal origin, which lies dormant through childhood into adolescence and then eventually begins malignant growth in early adulthood. Formation of a 12p isochromosome, a hallmark of TGCT observed in nearly all tumours, is likely to be a key triggering event for malignant transformation. Finally, TGCT have been shown to have a distinctive somatic mutational profile, with a low rate of point mutations contrasted with frequent large-scale chromosomal gains. These four hypotheses by no means constitute a complete model that explains TGCT tumorigenesis, but advances in genomic technologies have enabled considerable progress in describing and understanding the disease. Further advancing our understanding of the genomic basis of TGCT offers a clear opportunity for clinical benefit in terms of preventing invasive cancer arising in young men, decreasing the burden of chemotherapy-related survivorship issues and reducing mortality in the minority of patients who have treatment-refractory disease.
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20
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Spiller CM, Gillis AJM, Burnet G, Stoop H, Koopman P, Bowles J, Looijenga LHJ. Cripto: Expression, epigenetic regulation and potential diagnostic use in testicular germ cell tumors. Mol Oncol 2015; 10:526-37. [PMID: 26654129 DOI: 10.1016/j.molonc.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Revised: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Type II germ cell tumors arise after puberty from a germ cell that was incorrectly programmed during fetal life. Failure of testicular germ cells to properly differentiate can lead to the formation of germ cell neoplasia in situ of the testis; this precursor cell invariably gives rise to germ cell cancer after puberty. The Nodal co-receptor Cripto is expressed transiently during normal germ cell development and is ectopically expressed in non-seminomas that arise from germ cell neoplasia in situ, suggesting that its aberrant expression may underlie germ cell dysregulation and hence germ cell cancer. Here we investigated methylation of the Cripto promoter in mouse germ cells and human germ cell cancer and correlated this with the level of CRIPTO protein expression. We found hypomethylation of the CRIPTO promoter in undifferentiated fetal germ cells, embryonal carcinoma and seminomas, but hypermethylation in differentiated fetal germ cells and the differentiated types of non-seminomas. CRIPTO protein was strongly expressed in germ cell neoplasia in situ along with embryonal carcinoma, yolk sac tumor and seminomas. Further, cleaved CRIPTO was detected in media from seminoma and embryonal carcinoma cell lines, suggesting that cleaved CRIPTO may provide diagnostic indication of germ cell cancer. Accordingly, CRIPTO was detectable in serum from 6/15 patients with embryonal carcinoma, 5/15 patients with seminoma, 4/5 patients with germ cell neoplasia in situ cells only and in 1/15 control patients. These findings suggest that CRIPTO expression may be a useful serological marker for diagnostic and/or prognostic purposes during germ cell cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassy M Spiller
- Division of Genomics of Development and Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Ad J M Gillis
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015, The Netherlands
| | - Guillaume Burnet
- Division of Genomics of Development and Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; Departement de Biologie, Ecole Normale Superieure de Cachan, Cachan, France
| | - Hans Stoop
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Koopman
- Division of Genomics of Development and Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Josephine Bowles
- Division of Genomics of Development and Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015, The Netherlands.
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21
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Litchfield K, Summersgill B, Yost S, Sultana R, Labreche K, Dudakia D, Renwick A, Seal S, Al-Saadi R, Broderick P, Turner NC, Houlston RS, Huddart R, Shipley J, Turnbull C. Whole-exome sequencing reveals the mutational spectrum of testicular germ cell tumours. Nat Commun 2015; 6:5973. [PMID: 25609015 PMCID: PMC4338546 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the most common cancer in young men. Here we perform whole-exome sequencing (WES) of 42 TGCTs to comprehensively study the cancer's mutational profile. The mutation rate is uniformly low in all of the tumours (mean 0.5 mutations per Mb) as compared with common cancers, consistent with the embryological origin of TGCT. In addition to expected copy number gain of chromosome 12p and mutation of KIT, we identify recurrent mutations in the tumour suppressor gene CDC27 (11.9%). Copy number analysis reveals recurring amplification of the spermatocyte development gene FSIP2 (15.3%) and a 0.4 Mb region at Xq28 (15.3%). Two treatment-refractory patients are shown to harbour XRCC2 mutations, a gene strongly implicated in defining cisplatin resistance. Our findings provide further insights into genes involved in the development and progression of TGCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Litchfield
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Brenda Summersgill
- Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Shawn Yost
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Razvan Sultana
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Karim Labreche
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
- Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06 UMR S 1127, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, F-75019, Paris, France
| | - Darshna Dudakia
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Anthony Renwick
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Sheila Seal
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Reem Al-Saadi
- Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Peter Broderick
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Nicholas C. Turner
- The Breakthrough Breast Cancer Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Richard S. Houlston
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Robert Huddart
- Academic Radiotherapy Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Janet Shipley
- Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Clare Turnbull
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
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22
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Oshrine BR, Olsen MN, Heneghan M, Wertheim G, Daber R, Wilmoth DM, Biegel JA, Pawel B, Aplenc R, King RL. Acquired isochromosome 12p, somatic TP53 and PTEN mutations, and a germline ATM variant in an adolescent male with concurrent acute megakaryoblastic leukemia and mediastinal germ cell tumor. Cancer Genet 2014; 207:153-9. [PMID: 24831771 DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergen.2014.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2013] [Revised: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Previous reports have described an association between hematologic malignancies (HMs) and extragonadal germ cell tumor (GCT). Most patients have been adolescent males with mediastinal nonseminomatous GCT. Although a variety of HMs have been reported, there is a striking predilection toward acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL). Shared cytogenetic anomalies--particularly isochromosome 12p [i(12p)]--have suggested common clonal origins to the tumors. We report the case of a 17-year-old boy presenting with AMKL and a synchronous mediastinal GCT, with the characteristic i(12p) in both neoplasms. The common clonal origin of the AMKL and GCT was further confirmed with massively parallel sequencing, which identified somatic TP53 and PTEN mutations, as well as a rare germline ATM variant. Although these represent commonly mutated genes in cancer, this combination of mutations is not typically associated with either GCT or AMKL, suggesting that these tumors may represent unique biologic entities when they co-occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin R Oshrine
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Molly N Olsen
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mallorie Heneghan
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gerald Wertheim
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Robert Daber
- Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Center for Personalized Diagnostics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Donna M Wilmoth
- Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Center for Personalized Diagnostics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jaclyn A Biegel
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bruce Pawel
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Richard Aplenc
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca L King
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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23
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Testicular cancer: germ-cell tumors (GCTs). Mol Oncol 2013. [DOI: 10.1017/cbo9781139046947.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Chen XM, Kan QC, Wang F, Kong HJ, Zhang YY, Yu WZ, Sun YP. Chromosome dynamic changes in two cultured Chinese human embryonic stem cell lines: single nucleotide polymorphism, copy number variation and loss of heterozygosity. J Cell Biochem 2013; 113:3520-7. [PMID: 22711576 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.24229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The quality and safety of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) in clinical application depend on gene stability. Two Chinese hESC lines, Zh1 and Zh21, were incubated over a long period. We observed and compared the gene stability in the passage numbers 20, 17 for Zh1 cell line and passage numbers 27, 60, 68 for Zh21 cell line. Single nucleotide polymorphisis analysis indicated that hESCs in early passages had relative gene stability; and with the increase in passage number, gene instability became strong. We also found that there were copy number variations (CNVs) in both Zh21 and Zh1. We analyzed the CNVs of Chinese Han Beijing man (CHB; normal Chinese people) and found that the all CNV forms were the loss in Zh21, Zh1, and CHB. We also analyzed and compared the related pathways of the mutant genes. We propose three steps to ensure hESC safety. Firstly, besides the conventional methods such as pluripotent genes, chromosome G-banding and teratoma, high-resolution DNA chip analysis should also be adopted; secondly, chromosomal properties are monitored every 10 passages in less than passage 50 and every 5 passages in more than passage 50; thirdly, the related pathways of mutant genes should be observed because only the mutant genes with variations of their related pathways may affected cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Mei Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
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Looijenga LHJ, Gillis AJM, Stoop H, Biermann K, Oosterhuis JW. Dissecting the molecular pathways of (testicular) germ cell tumour pathogenesis; from initiation to treatment-resistance. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:e234-51. [PMID: 21564133 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2011.01157.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Human type II germ cell tumours (GCTs) originate from an embryonic germ cell, either as a primordial germ cell or gonocyte. This start determines the biological as well as clinical characteristics of this type of cancer, amongst others their totipotency as well as their overall (exceptional) sensitivity to DNA damaging agents. The histology of the precursor lesion, either carcinoma in situ or gonadoblastoma, depends on the level of testicularization (i.e. testis formation) of the gonad. The impact of either intrinsic (genetic) - and environmental factors involved in the pathogenesis is demonstrated by disorders of sex development as well as testicular dysgenesis syndrome as risk factors, including cryptorchidism, hypospadias and disturbed fertility as parameters. This knowledge allows identification of individuals at risk for development of this type of cancer, being a population of interest for screening. Factors known to regulate pluripotency during embryogenesis are proven to be of diagnostic value for type II GCTs, including OCT3/4, even applicable for non-invasive screening. In addition, presence of stem cell factor, also known as KITLG, allows distinction between delayed matured germ cells and the earliest stages of malignant transformation. This is of special interest because of the identified association between development of type II GCTs of the testis and a limited number of single nucleotide polymorphisms, including some likely related to KITL. Transition from the precursor lesion to an invasive cancer is associated with gain of the short arm of chromosome 12, in which multiple genes might be involved, including KRAS2 and possibly NANOG (pseudogenes). While most precursor lesions will progress to an invasive cancer, only a limited number of cancers will develop treatment resistance. Putative explanatory mechanisms are identified, including presence of microsatellite instability, BRAF mutations, apoptosis suppression and p21 sub-cellular localization. It remains to be investigated how these different pathways integrate to each other and how informative they are at the patient-individual level. Further understanding will allow development of more targeted treatment, which will benefit quality of life of these young cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- L H J Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center Rotterdam, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Daniel den Hoed Cancer Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Gilbert D, Rapley E, Shipley J. Testicular germ cell tumours: predisposition genes and the male germ cell niche. Nat Rev Cancer 2011; 11:278-88. [PMID: 21412254 DOI: 10.1038/nrc3021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) of adults and adolescents are putatively derived from primordial germ cells or gonocytes. Recently reported genome-wide association studies implicate six gene loci that predispose to TGCT development. Remarkably, the functions of proteins encoded by genes within these regions bridge our understanding between the pathways involved in primordial germ cell physiology, male germ cell development and the molecular pathology of TGCTs. Furthermore, this improved understanding of the mechanisms underlying TGCT development and dissemination has clinical relevance for the management of patients with these tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan Gilbert
- Sussex Cancer Centre, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Eastern Road, Brighton BN2 5BE, East Sussex, UK
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Gilbert DC, McIntyre A, Summersgill B, Missiaglia E, Goddard NC, Chandler I, Huddart RA, Shipley J. Minimum regions of genomic imbalance in stage I testicular embryonal carcinoma and association of 22q loss with relapse. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2010; 50:186-95. [PMID: 21213372 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.20843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2010] [Revised: 10/28/2010] [Accepted: 10/28/2010] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) are the most frequent solid tumor to affect young adult males and are histologically divided into seminomas and nonseminomas (NS). NS comprise undifferentiated embryonal carcinoma (EC) and differentiated tumors with embryonic (teratoma) or extra-embryonic (choriocarcinoma, yolk sac tumor) features. In contrast to other subtypes, EC have uniform cellular morphology and lack normal cell infiltrates, ideal for nucleic acid profiling. EC are under-represented in previous studies due to their relative rarity. To gain insights into NS tumorigenesis, metastatic dissemination and potential markers of relapse, a full tiling path BAC platform was used to obtain array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) profiles from 32 formalin fixed paraffin embedded stage I EC samples from patients with follow-up data. In addition to identifying regions previously described in TGCT, novel minimum overlapping regions of gain at 6p21.33, 10q11.21, and 22q13.32 and loss at 22q12.2 were defined and confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses. Specifically, the region at 6p21.33 included OCT3/4, the expression of which is involved in the maintenance of pluripotency and the 10q11.21 region contains the gene encoding the RAS activating factor RASGEF1A, the expression of which was demonstrably increased in RNA extracted from these samples. The region of loss at 22q12.2 was more frequently seen in tumors that relapsed and protein expression of genes from 22q12.2 included PIK3IP1, a negative regulator of PI3 kinase signaling was reduced. These data support the role for genes involved in pluripotency and RAS/PI3K signaling in EC development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan C Gilbert
- Molecular Cytogenetics, Section of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, Surrey, SM2 5NG, UK
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Screening for DNA copy number aberrations in mucinous adenocarcinoma arising from the minor salivary gland: two case reports. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 203:324-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergencyto.2010.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2010] [Revised: 08/02/2010] [Accepted: 08/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Baldini E, Arlot-Bonnemains Y, Mottolese M, Sentinelli S, Antoniani B, Sorrenti S, Salducci M, Comini E, Ulisse S, D'Armiento M. Deregulation of Aurora kinase gene expression in human testicular germ cell tumours. Andrologia 2010; 42:260-7. [PMID: 20629650 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2009.00987.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Aurora kinases regulate chromosome segregation and cytokinesis, and alterations in their expression associate with cell malignant transformation. In this study, we demonstrated by qRT-PCR analysis of 14 seminomas that Aurora-A mRNA was, with respect to control tissues, augmented in five of 14 tumour tissues by 2.17 +/- 0.30 fold (P < 0.05) and reduced in 9 to 0.38 +/- 0.10 (P < 0.01). Aurora-B mRNA was increased in 11 tumour tissues by 4.33 +/- 0.82 fold (P < 0.01) and reduced in 3 to 0.41 +/- 0.11 fold. Aurora-C mRNA was reduced to 0.20 +/- 0.32 fold (P < 0.01) in 13 seminomas and up-regulated in one case. Western blot experiments, performed on protein extracts of nine seminomas and six normal testes, showed an up-regulation of Aurora-B protein by 10.14 +/- 3.51 fold (P < 0.05), while Aurora-A protein was found increased in four seminomas by 2.16 +/- 0.43 (P < 0.05), unchanged in three and reduced in two tumour tissues. Aurora-C protein was increased by 9.2 +/- 2.90 fold (P < 0.05), suggesting that post-transcriptional mechanisms modulate its expression. In conclusion, we demonstrated that expression of Aurora kinases is deregulated in seminomas, suggesting that they may play a role in the progression of testicular cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Baldini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Liberal V, De Miguel MP, Henze M, Nistal M, Reed SI. Reduced spermatogonial proliferation and decreased fertility in mice overexpressing cyclin E in spermatogonia. Cell Cycle 2010; 9:4222-7. [PMID: 20962587 PMCID: PMC3055205 DOI: 10.4161/cc.9.20.13544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2010] [Accepted: 09/04/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin E is a key component of the cell cycle regulatory machinery, contributing to the activation of Cdk2 and the control of cell cycle progression at several stages. Cyclin E expression is tightly regulated, by periodic transcription and ubiquitin-mediated degradation. Overexpression of cyclin E has been associated with tumor development and poor prognosis in several tumor types, including germ cell tumors and both cyclin E and its partner Cdk2 are required for normal spermatogenesis. Here we have generated and characterized transgenic mice overexpressing a cyclin E mutant protein, resistant to ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, in testicular germ cells, under the control of the human EF-1alpha promoter. The transgenic mice develop normally and live a normal life span, with no signs of testicular tumor development. The transgenic mice display however reduced fertility and testicular atrophy, due to reduced spermatogonial proliferation as a consequence of deregulated cyclin E levels. Overall our results show that deregulation of cyclin E expression contribute to infertility, due to inability of the spermatogonial cells to start the mitotic cycles prior to entering meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco Liberal
- Department of Molecular Biology, MB-7, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA
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32
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Sukov WR, Cheville JC, Giannini C, Carlson AW, Shearer BM, Sinnwell JP, Ketterling RP. Isochromosome 12p and polysomy 12 in primary central nervous system germ cell tumors: frequency and association with clinicopathologic features. Hum Pathol 2010; 41:232-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2009.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2009] [Revised: 07/19/2009] [Accepted: 07/22/2009] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Mita H, Toyota M, Aoki F, Akashi H, Maruyama R, Sasaki Y, Suzuki H, Idogawa M, Kashima L, Yanagihara K, Fujita M, Hosokawa M, Kusano M, Sabau SV, Tatsumi H, Imai K, Shinomura Y, Tokino T. A novel method, digital genome scanning detects KRAS gene amplification in gastric cancers: involvement of overexpressed wild-type KRAS in downstream signaling and cancer cell growth. BMC Cancer 2009; 9:198. [PMID: 19545448 PMCID: PMC2717977 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-9-198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2008] [Accepted: 06/23/2009] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gastric cancer is the third most common malignancy affecting the general population worldwide. Aberrant activation of KRAS is a key factor in the development of many types of tumor, however, oncogenic mutations of KRAS are infrequent in gastric cancer. We have developed a novel quantitative method of analysis of DNA copy number, termed digital genome scanning (DGS), which is based on the enumeration of short restriction fragments, and does not involve PCR or hybridization. In the current study, we used DGS to survey copy-number alterations in gastric cancer cells. Methods DGS of gastric cancer cell lines was performed using the sequences of 5000 to 15000 restriction fragments. We screened 20 gastric cancer cell lines and 86 primary gastric tumors for KRAS amplification by quantitative PCR, and investigated KRAS amplification at the DNA, mRNA and protein levels by mutational analysis, real-time PCR, immunoblot analysis, GTP-RAS pull-down assay and immunohistochemical analysis. The effect of KRAS knock-down on the activation of p44/42 MAP kinase and AKT and on cell growth were examined by immunoblot and colorimetric assay, respectively. Results DGS analysis of the HSC45 gastric cancer cell line revealed the amplification of a 500-kb region on chromosome 12p12.1, which contains the KRAS gene locus. Amplification of the KRAS locus was detected in 15% (3/20) of gastric cancer cell lines (8–18-fold amplification) and 4.7% (4/86) of primary gastric tumors (8–50-fold amplification). KRAS mutations were identified in two of the three cell lines in which KRAS was amplified, but were not detected in any of the primary tumors. Overexpression of KRAS protein correlated directly with increased KRAS copy number. The level of GTP-bound KRAS was elevated following serum stimulation in cells with amplified wild-type KRAS, but not in cells with amplified mutant KRAS. Knock-down of KRAS in gastric cancer cells that carried amplified wild-type KRAS resulted in the inhibition of cell growth and suppression of p44/42 MAP kinase and AKT activity. Conclusion Our study highlights the utility of DGS for identification of copy-number alterations. Using DGS, we identified KRAS as a gene that is amplified in human gastric cancer. We demonstrated that gene amplification likely forms the molecular basis of overactivation of KRAS in gastric cancer. Additional studies using a larger cohort of gastric cancer specimens are required to determine the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of KRAS amplification and overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Mita
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cancer Research Institute, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan.
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Meng GZ, Zhang HY, Zhang Z, Wei B, Bu H. Myofibroblastic sarcoma vs nodular fasciitis: a comparative study of chromosomal imbalances. Am J Clin Pathol 2009; 131:701-9. [PMID: 19369631 DOI: 10.1309/ajcpv6h2wsyxlkfb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the molecular cytogenetic features in myofibroblastic sarcoma (MS) to gain insight into the nature of the controversial entity. DNA copy number changes were analyzed by comparative genomic hybridization in 29 cases of MS and 5 cases of nodular fasciitis. The characteristic chromosomal imbalances in MS were gains at 1p11 --> p36.3 (19/29 [66%]), 12p12.2 --> p13.2 (13/29 [45%]), 5p13.2 --> p15.3 (9/29 [31%]), and chromosome 22 (8/29 [28%]) and loss at 15q25 --> q26.2 (7/29 [24%]). In contrast, only 1 of 5 cases of nodular fasciitis showed genetic aberrations. The average number of aberrations in nodular fasciitis (0.4) was significantly lower than that in MS (5.4). Thus, MS displayed complex DNA copy number changes and shared no range of common chromosomal abnormality with nodular fasciitis, indicating that distinct genetic pathways may be involved in the development of these entities.
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Honecker F, Wermann H, Mayer F, Gillis AJM, Stoop H, van Gurp RJLM, Oechsle K, Steyerberg E, Hartmann JT, Dinjens WNM, Oosterhuis JW, Bokemeyer C, Looijenga LHJ. Microsatellite instability, mismatch repair deficiency, and BRAF mutation in treatment-resistant germ cell tumors. J Clin Oncol 2009; 27:2129-36. [PMID: 19289622 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2008.18.8623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency and microsatellite instability (MSI) are associated with cisplatin resistance in human germ cell tumors (GCTs). BRAF mutation (V600E) is found in MSI colorectal cancers. The role of RAS/RAF pathway mutations in GCT treatment response is unknown. PATIENTS AND METHODS Two patient cohorts were investigated: 100 control GCTs (50 seminomas and 50 nonseminomas) and 35 cisplatin-based chemotherapy-resistant GCTs. MMR proteins were analyzed by immunohistochemistry, and eight microsatellite loci were examined for MSI. Tumors were assessed for specific BRAF and KRAS mutations. RESULTS Resistant tumors showed a higher incidence of MSI than controls: 26% versus 0% in two or more loci (P < .0001). All resistant tumors were wild-type KRAS, and two controls (2%) contained a KRAS mutation. There was a significantly higher incidence of BRAF V600E mutation in resistant tumors compared with controls: 26% versus 1% (P < .0001). BRAF mutations were highly correlated with MSI (P = .006), and MSI and mutated BRAF were correlated with weak or absent staining for hMLH1 (P = .017 and P = .008). Low or absent staining of hMLH1 was correlated with promoter hypermethylation (P < .001). Tumors lacking expression of hMLH1 or MSH6 were significantly more frequent in resistant GCTs than in controls (P = .001 and 0.0036, respectively). Within the subgroup of resistant tumors, patients with MSI showed a trend to longer progression-free survival (P = .068). CONCLUSION We report for the first time a correlation between a gene mutation--BRAF V600E--and cisplatin resistance in nonseminomatous GCTs. Furthermore, a correlation between MMR deficiency, MSI, and treatment failure is confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friedemann Honecker
- Department of Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg- Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Sirintrapun SJ, Parwani AV. Molecular Pathology of the Genitourinary Tract: Molecular Pathology of Kidney and Testes. Surg Pathol Clin 2009; 2:199-223. [PMID: 26838102 DOI: 10.1016/j.path.2008.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of newer molecular technologies, our knowledge of cellular mechanisms with tumors of the kidney and testis has grown exponentially. Molecular technologies have led to better understanding of interplay between the von Hippel-Lindau gene and angiogenic cytokines in renal cancer and isochromosome 12p in testicular neoplasms. The result has been development of antiangiogenic-targeted therapy within recent years that has become the mainstay treatment for metastatic renal cell cancer. In the near future, classification and diagnosis of renal and testicular tumors through morphologic analysis will be supplemented by molecular information correlating to prognosis and targeted therapy. This article outlines tumor molecular pathology of the kidney and testis encompassing current genomic, epigenomic, and proteonomic findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Joseph Sirintrapun
- Pathology Informatics, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Anil V Parwani
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Shadyside Hospital, Room WG 07, 5230 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
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Hussain SA, Ma YT, Palmer DH, Hutton P, Cullen MH. Biology of testicular germ cell tumors. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2009; 8:1659-73. [PMID: 18925857 DOI: 10.1586/14737140.8.10.1659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Germ cell tumors are derived from cells of the germ cell lineage and are the most common solid malignancies to affect young Caucasian men between the ages of 15 and 40 years. All testicular germ cell tumors develop from the same precursor lesion, intratubular germ cell neoplasia unclassified, which in turn is thought to arise from malignant transformation of a primordial germ cell or gonocyte. These tumors are characterized by extreme chemosensitivity and are considered a model for curative disease. In spite of this, a small subset of patients with metastatic disease fail to achieve a complete response with cisplatin-based chemotherapy or relapse from complete remission. Understanding the molecular biology may help the design of new therapies for those patients with a poor prognosis and could also improve the treatment of cancer in general. Current understanding of the role of genetic and epigenetic factors in the etiology of germ cell tumors and the biochemical mechanisms underlying chemotherapy sensitivity and resistance is discussed in detail in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed A Hussain
- Cancer Research UK Institute for Cancer Studies, University of Birmingham, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Edgbaston, Birmingham , UK.
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Sturgeon CM, Duffy MJ, Stenman UH, Lilja H, Brünner N, Chan DW, Babaian R, Bast RC, Dowell B, Esteva FJ, Haglund C, Harbeck N, Hayes DF, Holten-Andersen M, Klee GG, Lamerz R, Looijenga LH, Molina R, Nielsen HJ, Rittenhouse H, Semjonow A, Shih IM, Sibley P, Sölétormos G, Stephan C, Sokoll L, Hoffman BR, Diamandis EP. National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines for Use of Tumor Markers in Testicular, Prostate, Colorectal, Breast, and Ovarian Cancers. Clin Chem 2008; 54:e11-79. [DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2008.105601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 458] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Updated National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry (NACB) Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines for the use of tumor markers in the clinic have been developed.
Methods: Published reports relevant to use of tumor markers for 5 cancer sites—testicular, prostate, colorectal, breast, and ovarian—were critically reviewed.
Results: For testicular cancer, α-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, and lactate dehydrogenase are recommended for diagnosis/case finding, staging, prognosis determination, recurrence detection, and therapy monitoring. α-Fetoprotein is also recommended for differential diagnosis of nonseminomatous and seminomatous germ cell tumors. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is not recommended for prostate cancer screening, but may be used for detecting disease recurrence and monitoring therapy. Free PSA measurement data are useful for distinguishing malignant from benign prostatic disease when total PSA is <10 μg/L. In colorectal cancer, carcinoembryonic antigen is recommended (with some caveats) for prognosis determination, postoperative surveillance, and therapy monitoring in advanced disease. Fecal occult blood testing may be used for screening asymptomatic adults 50 years or older. For breast cancer, estrogen and progesterone receptors are mandatory for predicting response to hormone therapy, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 measurement is mandatory for predicting response to trastuzumab, and urokinase plasminogen activator/plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 may be used for determining prognosis in lymph node–negative patients. CA15-3/BR27–29 or carcinoembryonic antigen may be used for therapy monitoring in advanced disease. CA125 is recommended (with transvaginal ultrasound) for early detection of ovarian cancer in women at high risk for this disease. CA125 is also recommended for differential diagnosis of suspicious pelvic masses in postmenopausal women, as well as for detection of recurrence, monitoring of therapy, and determination of prognosis in women with ovarian cancer.
Conclusions: Implementation of these recommendations should encourage optimal use of tumor markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharine M Sturgeon
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Michael J Duffy
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St Vincent’s University Hospital and UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ulf-Håkan Stenman
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hans Lilja
- Departments of Clinical Laboratories, Urology, and Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Nils Brünner
- Section of Biomedicine, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel W Chan
- Departments of Pathology and Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD
| | - Richard Babaian
- Department of Urology, The University of Texas Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Robert C Bast
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Francisco J Esteva
- Departments of Breast Medical Oncology, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston TX
| | - Caj Haglund
- Department of Surgery, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nadia Harbeck
- Frauenklinik der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel F Hayes
- Breast Oncology Program, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Mads Holten-Andersen
- Section of Biomedicine, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - George G Klee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN
| | - Rolf Lamerz
- Department of Medicine, Klinikum of the University of Munich, Grosshadern, Germany
| | - Leendert H Looijenga
- Laboratory of Experimental Patho-Oncology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center Rotterdam, and Daniel den Hoed Cancer Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rafael Molina
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Hospital Clinico Provincial, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hans Jørgen Nielsen
- Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, Hvidovre Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Axel Semjonow
- Prostate Center, Department of Urology, University Clinic Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Ie-Ming Shih
- Departments of Pathology and Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD
| | - Paul Sibley
- Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics, Glyn Rhonwy, Llanberis, Gwynedd, UK
| | | | - Carsten Stephan
- Department of Urology, Charité Hospital, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lori Sokoll
- Departments of Pathology and Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD
| | - Barry R Hoffman
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eleftherios P Diamandis
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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McIntyre A, Gilbert D, Goddard N, Looijenga L, Shipley J. Genes, chromosomes and the development of testicular germ cell tumors of adolescents and adults. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2008; 47:547-57. [PMID: 18381640 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.20562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) of adults and adolescents are thought to be derived from primordial germ cells or gonocytes. TGCTs develop postpuberty from precursor lesions known as intratubular germ cell neoplasia undifferentiated. The tumors can be divided into two groups based on their histology and clinical behavior; seminomas resemble primordial germ cells or gonocytes and nonseminomas resemble embryonic or extraembryonic tissues at various stages of differentiation. The most undifferentiated form of nonseminoma, embryonal carcinoma, resembles embryonic stem cells in terms of morphology and expression profiling, both mRNAs and microRNAs. Evidence supports both environmental factors and genetic predisposition underlying the development of TGCTs. Various models of development have been proposed and are discussed. In TGCTs, gain of material from the short arm of chromosome 12 is invariable: genes from this region include the proto-oncogene KRAS, which has activating mutations in approximately 10% of tumors or is frequently overexpressed. A number of different approaches to increase the understanding of the development and progression of TGCTs have highlighted the involvement of KIT, RAS/RAF/MAPK, STAT, and PI3K/AKT signaling. We review the role of these signaling pathways in this process and the potential influence of environmental factors in the development of TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan McIntyre
- Molecular Cytogenetics, Section of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, Surrey, SM2 5NG, UK
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Fenner MH, Beutel G, Grünwald V. Targeted therapies for patients with germ cell tumors. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2008; 17:511-22. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.17.4.511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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41
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de Jong J, Stoop H, Gillis AJM, Hersmus R, van Gurp RJHLM, van de Geijn GJM, van Drunen E, Beverloo HB, Schneider DT, Sherlock JK, Baeten J, Kitazawa S, van Zoelen EJ, van Roozendaal K, Oosterhuis JW, Looijenga LHJ. Further characterization of the first seminoma cell line TCam-2. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2008; 47:185-96. [DOI: 10.1002/gcc.20520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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Goddard NC, McIntyre A, Summersgill B, Gilbert D, Kitazawa S, Shipley J. KIT and RAS signalling pathways in testicular germ cell tumours: new data and a review of the literature. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 30:337-48; discussion 349. [PMID: 17573850 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2007.00769.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the leading cause of cancer deaths in young male Caucasians. Identifying changes in DNA copy number can pinpoint genes involved in tumour development. We defined the smallest overlapping regions of imbalance in TGCTs using array comparative genomic hybridization analysis. Novel regions, or regions which refined those previously reported, were identified. The expression profile of genes from 12p, which is invariably gained in TGCTs, and amplicons defined at 12p11.2-12.1 and 4q12, suggest KRAS and KIT involvement in TGCT and seminoma development, respectively. Amplification of these genes was not found in intratubular germ cell neoplasia adjacent to invasive disease showing these changes, suggesting their involvement in tumour progression. Activating mutations of RAS genes (KRAS or NRAS) and overexpression of KRAS were mutually exclusive events. These, correlations between the expression levels of KIT, KRAS and GRB7 (which encodes an adapter molecule known to interact with the KIT tyrosine kinase receptor) and other reported evidence reviewed here, are consistent with a role for activation of KIT and RAS signalling in TGCT development. In order to assess a role for KIT in seminomas, we modulated the level of KIT expression in TCam-2, a seminoma cell line. The likely seminomatous origin of this cell line was supported by demonstrating KIT and OCT3/4 overexpression and gain of 12p material. Reducing the expression of KIT in TCam-2 through RNA inhibition resulted in decreased cell viability. Further understanding of KIT and RAS signalling in TGCTs may lead to novel therapeutic approaches for these tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Goddard
- Molecular Cytogenetics, Section of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, Surrey SM2 5NG, UK
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43
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Harrison NJ, Baker D, Andrews PW. Culture adaptation of embryonic stem cells echoes germ cell malignancy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 30:275-81; discussion 281. [PMID: 17488340 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2007.00762.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Teratocarcinomas are a subset of tumours that result from the neoplastic transformation of primordial germ cells. Such germ cell tumours (GCT) are histologically heterogeneous, reflecting a capacity for differentiation (pluripotency) of their embryonal carcinoma (EC) stem cells. However, malignant evolution of these tumours may ultimately correlate with a decrease in pluripotency, because this would tend to increase the propensity of EC cells for self-renewal. Human embryonic stem (ES) cells, derived from early blastocysts, closely resemble EC cells and, on prolonged culture in vitro, acquire progressive genetic changes that show striking similarity to those seen in GCT (e.g. gain of material from chromosome 12). In parallel, these abnormal ES cells show enhanced population growth rates and plating efficiencies, indicative of their adaptation to culture conditions. Understanding the mechanisms that drive such culture adaptation of ES cells may also provide insights into the development and progression of GCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil J Harrison
- Centre for Stem Cell Biology and the Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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44
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Abstract
There are numerous molecular modifications known to occur in cancer. New nucleic acid-based biomarkers provide a unique approach to patient management in urologic oncology. Malignant transformation of a normal cell requires a series of epigenetic and genetic changes or "hits." Epigenetics produced by deoxyribonucleic acid methylation, adding a methyl group to the fifth position of cytosine within CpG dinucleotides, are important players in deoxyribonucleic acid repair, genome instability, and regulation of chromatin structure. Genetic alterations in cancer can include mutations, chromosome deletions, insertions, amplifications, and translocations. In addition, the modifications of telomeres are critical to the maintenance of chromatin structure, transcription, and cell function in cancer. We review only nucleic acid-based molecular biomarkers in urologic oncology that can assist the clinician in establishing the diagnosis of disease, or that can predict the behavior of the disease or the patient's survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert W Veltri
- Department of Urology, The Brady Urologic Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287-2101, USA.
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Baker DEC, Harrison NJ, Maltby E, Smith K, Moore HD, Shaw PJ, Heath PR, Holden H, Andrews PW. Adaptation to culture of human embryonic stem cells and oncogenesis in vivo. Nat Biotechnol 2007; 25:207-15. [PMID: 17287758 DOI: 10.1038/nbt1285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 470] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The application of human embryonic stem cells (HESCs) to provide differentiated cells for regenerative medicine will require the continuous maintenance of the undifferentiated stem cells for long periods in culture. However, chromosomal stability during extended passaging cannot be guaranteed, as recent cytogenetic studies of HESCs have shown karyotypic aberrations. The observed karyotypic aberrations probably reflect the progressive adaptation of self-renewing cells to their culture conditions. Genetic change that increases the capacity of cells to proliferate has obvious parallels with malignant transformation, and we propose that the changes observed in HESCs in culture reflect tumorigenic events that occur in vivo, particularly in testicular germ cell tumors. Further supporting a link between culture adaptation and malignancy, we have observed the formation of a chromosomal homogeneous staining region in one HESC line, a genetic feature almost a hallmark of cancer cells. Identifying the genes critical for culture adaptation may thus reveal key players for both stem cell maintenance in vitro and germ cell tumorigenesis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan E C Baker
- Sheffield Regional Cytogenetics Service, Sheffield Children's Trust, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TH, UK
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Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TCGT) comprise a heterogeneous group of neoplasms, although all of them are originated from common precursors related to germ cell lineage. Understanding of normal development of germinal cells is essential to define new markers for diagnosis, prognostic subgroups and targeted therapies. Recent advances related to cytogenetic and molecular features have established the role of immunohistochemistry of c-kit, OCT-3/4 and determination of gain of chromosome 12 in the daily workup of premalignant lesions and invasive tumors. This review summarizes the current knowledge in the field of molecular biology of TGCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Vilar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain.
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47
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Rajpert-De Meyts E. Developmental model for the pathogenesis of testicular carcinoma in situ: genetic and environmental aspects. Hum Reprod Update 2006; 12:303-23. [PMID: 16540528 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmk006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 304] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Carcinoma in situ testis (CIS), also known as intratubular germ cell neoplasia (ITGCN), is a pre-invasive precursor of testicular germ cell tumours, the commonest cancer type of male adolescents and young adults. In this review, evidence supporting the hypothesis of developmental origin of testicular germ cell cancer is summarized, and the current concepts regarding aetiology and pathogenesis of this disease are critically discussed. Comparative studies of cell surface proteins (e.g. PLAP and KIT), some of the germ cell-specific markers (e.g. MAGEA4, VASA, TSPY and NY-ESO-1), supported by studies of regulatory elements of the cell cycle (e.g. p53, CHK2 and p19-INK4d) demonstrated a close similarity of CIS to primordial germ cells and gonocytes, consistent with the pre-meiotic origin of CIS. Recent gene expression profiling studies showed that CIS cells closely resemble embryonic stem cells (ESCs). The abundance of factors associated with pluripotency (NANOG and OCT-3/4) and undifferentiated state (AP-2gamma) may explain the remarkable pluripotency of germ cell neoplasms, which are capable of differentiating to various somatic tissue components of teratomas. Impaired gonadal development resulting in the arrest of gonocyte differentiation and retention of its embryonic features, associated with an increasing genomic instability, is the most probable model for the pathogenesis of CIS. Genomic amplification of certain chromosomal regions, e.g. 12p, may facilitate survival of CIS and further invasive progression. Genetic studies, have so far not identified gene polymorphisms predisposing to the most common non-familial testicular cancer, but this research has only recently begun. Association of CIS with other disorders, such as congenital genital malformations and some forms of impaired spermatogenesis, all rising in incidence in a synchronous manner, led to the hypothesis that CIS might be a manifestation of testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS). The aetiology of TDS including testicular cancer remains to be elucidated, but epidemiological trends suggest a primary role for environmental factors, probably combined with genetic susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Abstract
Testicular germ-cell tumours (TGCTs) represent the model of a curable malignancy; sensitive tumour markers, accurate prognostic classification, logical series of management trials, and high cure rates in both seminomas and non-seminomas have enabled a framework of effective cancer therapy. Understanding the molecular biology of TGCT could help improve treatment of other cancers. The typical presentation in young adults means that issues of long-term toxicity become especially important in judging appropriate management. A focus of recent developments has been to tailor aggressiveness of treatment to the severity of the prognosis. Recent changes affect the most common subtypes and include the reduction of chemotherapy for patients who have metastastic non-seminomas and a good prognosis, and alternatives to adjuvant radiotherapy in stage I seminomas. We summarise advances in the understanding and management of TGCT during the past decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Horwich
- Institute of Cancer Research and Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Surrey SM2 5PT, UK.
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Hart AH, Hartley L, Parker K, Ibrahim M, Looijenga LHJ, Pauchnik M, Chow CW, Robb L. The pluripotency homeobox gene NANOG is expressed in human germ cell tumors. Cancer 2006; 104:2092-8. [PMID: 16206293 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.21435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The NANOG gene, a member of the homeobox family of DNA binding transcription factors, was recently identified in a screen for pluripotency-promoting genes. NANOG overexpression in murine embryonic stem cells is sufficient to maintain self-renewal and to block differentiation. The NANOG gene is located on human chromosome 12p13, a region frequently duplicated in human tumors of germ cell origin and in cultured human embryonic stem cells. Here we investigate the expression and gene copy number of NANOG in human germ cells and tumors of germ cell origin. METHODS Immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) were used to examine the expression and gene copy number of the human NANOG gene in germ cell tumors. RESULTS NANOG protein was detected in germline stem cells (gonocytes) within the developing testis. Immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR analysis were used to demonstrate that NANOG is highly and specifically expressed in carcinoma in situ (CIS), embryonal carcinomas, and seminomas, but not in teratomas and yolk sac tumors. CONCLUSIONS NANOG expression in germline stem cells (gonocytes), CIS, embryonal carcinoma, and seminoma reveals a molecular and developmental link between germ cell tumors and the embryonic cells from which they arise. Identification of NANOG as a molecular marker of undifferentiated germ cell tumors provides a novel tool for identifying and classifying tumors of germ cell origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam H Hart
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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di Pietro A, Vries EGED, Gietema JA, Spierings DCJ, de Jong S. Testicular germ cell tumours: the paradigm of chemo-sensitive solid tumours. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2005; 37:2437-56. [PMID: 16099193 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2005.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2005] [Revised: 06/02/2005] [Accepted: 01/27/2005] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the most frequent solid malignant tumour in men 20-40 years of age and the most frequent cause of death from solid tumours in this age group. Up to 50% of the patients suffer from metastatic disease at diagnosis. The majority of metastatic testicular cancer patients, in contrast to most other metastatic solid tumours, can be cured with highly effective cisplatin-based chemotherapy. From a genetic point of view, almost all TGCTs in contrast to solid tumours are characterised by the presence of wild type p53. High p53 expression levels are associated with elevated Mdm2 levels and a loss of p21(Waf1/Cip1) expression suggesting a changed functionality of p53. Expression levels of other proteins involved in the regulation of cell cycle progression indicate a deregulated G1-S phase checkpoint in TGCTs. After cisplatin-induced DNA damage, the increasing levels of p53 lead to the trans-activation of a number of genes but not of p21(Waf1/Cip1), preferentially directing TGCT cells into apoptosis or programmed cell death, both via the mitochondrial and the death receptor apoptosis pathways. The sensitivity of TGCTs to chemotherapeutic drugs may lay in the susceptibility of germ cells to apoptosis. Taken together, this provides TGCT as a tumour type model to investigate and understand the molecular determinants of chemotherapy sensitivity of solid tumours. This review aims to summarise the current knowledge on the biological basis of cisplatin-induced apoptosis and response to chemotherapy in TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra di Pietro
- Department of Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine, University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Hanzeplein 1, Groningen, The Netherlands
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