1
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Sun H, Gao Y, Ma X, Deng Y, Bi L, Li L. Mechanism and application of feedback loops formed by mechanotransduction and histone modifications. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101061. [PMID: 39071110 PMCID: PMC11282412 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Mechanical stimulation is the key physical factor in cell environment. Mechanotransduction acts as a fundamental regulator of cell behavior, regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and exhibiting specific signature alterations during the pathological process. As research continues, the role of epigenetic science in mechanotransduction is attracting attention. However, the molecular mechanism of the synergistic effect between mechanotransduction and epigenetics in physiological and pathological processes has not been clarified. We focus on how histone modifications, as important components of epigenetics, are coordinated with multiple signaling pathways to control cell fate and disease progression. Specifically, we propose that histone modifications can form regulatory feedback loops with signaling pathways, that is, histone modifications can not only serve as downstream regulators of signaling pathways for target gene transcription but also provide feedback to regulate signaling pathways. Mechanotransduction and epigenetic changes could be potential markers and therapeutic targets in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Sun
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Yafang Gao
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Xinyu Ma
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Yizhou Deng
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Lintao Bi
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Lisha Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
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2
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Shenoy US, Adiga D, Alhedyan F, Kabekkodu SP, Radhakrishnan R. HOXA9 transcription factor is a double-edged sword: from development to cancer progression. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:709-728. [PMID: 38062297 PMCID: PMC11156722 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10159-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The HOXA9 transcription factor serves as a molecular orchestrator in cancer stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis, and generation of the tumor microenvironment in hematological and solid malignancies. However, the multiple modes of regulation, multifaceted functions, and context-dependent interactions responsible for the dual role of HOXA9 as an oncogene or tumor suppressor in cancer remain obscure. Hence, unravelling its molecular complexities, binding partners, and interacting signaling molecules enables us to comprehend HOXA9-mediated transcriptional programs and molecular crosstalk. However, it is imperative to understand its central role in fundamental biological processes such as embryogenesis, foetus implantation, hematopoiesis, endothelial cell proliferation, and tissue homeostasis before designing targeted therapies. Indeed, it presents an enormous challenge for clinicians to selectively target its oncogenic functions or restore tumor-suppressive role without altering normal cellular functions. In addition to its implications in cancer, the present review also focuses on the clinical applications of HOXA9 in recurrence and drug resistance, which may provide a broader understanding beyond oncology, open new avenues for clinicians for accurate diagnoses, and develop personalized treatment strategies. Furthermore, we have also discussed the existing therapeutic options and accompanying challenges in HOXA9-targeted therapies in different cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Sangeetha Shenoy
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Divya Adiga
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Faisal Alhedyan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Diagnostic Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
- Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Clinical Dentistry, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Shama Prasada Kabekkodu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Raghu Radhakrishnan
- Department of Oral Pathology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India.
- Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Clinical Dentistry, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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3
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Aryal S, Lu R. HOXA9 Regulome and Pharmacological Interventions in Leukemia. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1459:405-430. [PMID: 39017854 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-62731-6_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
HOXA9, an important transcription factor (TF) in hematopoiesis, is aberrantly expressed in numerous cases of both acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and is a strong indicator of poor prognosis in patients. HOXA9 is a proto-oncogene which is both sufficient and necessary for leukemia transformation. HOXA9 expression in leukemia correlates with patient survival outcomes and response to therapy. Chromosomal transformations (such as NUP98-HOXA9), mutations, epigenetic dysregulation (e.g., MLL- MENIN -LEDGF complex or DOT1L/KMT4), transcription factors (such as USF1/USF2), and noncoding RNA (such as HOTTIP and HOTAIR) regulate HOXA9 mRNA and protein during leukemia. HOXA9 regulates survival, self-renewal, and progenitor cell cycle through several of its downstream target TFs including LMO2, antiapoptotic BCL2, SOX4, and receptor tyrosine kinase FLT3 and STAT5. This dynamic and multilayered HOXA9 regulome provides new therapeutic opportunities, including inhibitors targeting DOT1L/KMT4, MENIN, NPM1, and ENL proteins. Recent findings also suggest that HOXA9 maintains leukemia by actively repressing myeloid differentiation genes. This chapter summarizes the recent advances understanding biochemical mechanisms underlying HOXA9-mediated leukemogenesis, the clinical significance of its abnormal expression, and pharmacological approaches to treat HOXA9-driven leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajesan Aryal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rui Lu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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4
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Schneider P, Wander P, Arentsen-Peters STCJM, Vrenken KS, Rockx-Brouwer D, Adriaanse FRS, Hoeve V, Paassen I, Drost J, Pieters R, Stam RW. CRISPR-Cas9 Library Screening Identifies Novel Molecular Vulnerabilities in KMT2A-Rearranged Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13207. [PMID: 37686014 PMCID: PMC10487613 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), chromosomal translocations involving the KMT2A gene represent highly unfavorable prognostic factors and most commonly occur in patients less than 1 year of age. Rearrangements of the KMT2A gene drive epigenetic changes that lead to aberrant gene expression profiles that strongly favor leukemia development. Apart from this genetic lesion, the mutational landscape of KMT2A-rearranged ALL is remarkably silent, providing limited insights for the development of targeted therapy. Consequently, identifying potential therapeutic targets often relies on differential gene expression, yet the inhibition of these genes has rarely translated into successful therapeutic strategies. Therefore, we performed CRISPR-Cas9 knock-out screens to search for genetic dependencies in KMT2A-rearranged ALL. We utilized small-guide RNA libraries directed against the entire human epigenome and kinome in various KMT2A-rearranged ALL, as well as wild-type KMT2A ALL cell line models. This screening approach led to the discovery of the epigenetic regulators ARID4B and MBD3, as well as the receptor kinase BMPR2 as novel molecular vulnerabilities and attractive therapeutic targets in KMT2A-rearranged ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Schneider
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Priscilla Wander
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Kirsten S. Vrenken
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Veerle Hoeve
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Irene Paassen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, 3521 AL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jarno Drost
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, 3521 AL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rob Pieters
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald W. Stam
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
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5
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Targeted Epigenetic Interventions in Cancer with an Emphasis on Pediatric Malignancies. Biomolecules 2022; 13:biom13010061. [PMID: 36671446 PMCID: PMC9855367 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, novel hallmarks of cancer have been described, including the altered epigenetic landscape of malignant diseases. In addition to the methylation and hyd-roxymethylation of DNA, numerous novel forms of histone modifications and nucleosome remodeling have been discovered, giving rise to a wide variety of targeted therapeutic interventions. DNA hypomethylating drugs, histone deacetylase inhibitors and agents targeting histone methylation machinery are of distinguished clinical significance. The major focus of this review is placed on targeted epigenetic interventions in the most common pediatric malignancies, including acute leukemias, brain and kidney tumors, neuroblastoma and soft tissue sarcomas. Upcoming novel challenges include specificity and potential undesirable side effects. Different epigenetic patterns of pediatric and adult cancers should be noted. Biological significance of epigenetic alterations highly depends on the tissue microenvironment and widespread interactions. An individualized treatment approach requires detailed genetic, epigenetic and metabolomic evaluation of cancer. Advances in molecular technologies and clinical translation may contribute to the development of novel pediatric anticancer treatment strategies, aiming for improved survival and better patient quality of life.
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6
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Dual LSD1 and HDAC6 Inhibition Induces Doxorubicin Sensitivity in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14236014. [PMID: 36497494 PMCID: PMC9737972 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14236014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Defects in epigenetic pathways are key drivers of oncogenic cell proliferation. We developed a LSD1/HDAC6 multitargeting inhibitor (iDual), a hydroxamic acid analogue of the clinical candidate LSD1 inhibitor GSK2879552. iDual inhibits both targets with IC50 values of 540, 110, and 290 nM, respectively, against LSD1, HDAC6, and HDAC8. We compared its activity to structurally similar control probes that act by HDAC or LSD1 inhibition alone, as well as an inactive null compound. iDual inhibited the growth of leukemia cell lines at a higher level than GSK2879552 with micromolar IC50 values. Dual engagement with LSD1 and HDAC6 was supported by dose dependent increases in substrate levels, biomarkers, and cellular thermal shift assay. Both histone methylation and acetylation of tubulin were increased, while acetylated histone levels were only mildly affected, indicating selectivity for HDAC6. Downstream gene expression (CD11b, CD86, p21) was also elevated in response to iDual treatment. Remarkably, iDual synergized with doxorubicin, triggering significant levels of apoptosis with a sublethal concentration of the drug. While mechanistic studies did not reveal changes in DNA repair or drug efflux pathways, the expression of AGPAT9, ALOX5, BTG1, HIPK2, IFI44L, and LRP1, previously implicated in doxorubicin sensitivity, was significantly elevated.
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7
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Tang L, Peng L, Tan C, Liu H, Chen P, Wang H. Role of HOXA9 in solid tumors: mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:349. [PMID: 36376832 PMCID: PMC9664671 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02767-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
HOXA9 functioning as a transcription factor is one of the members of HOX gene family, which governs multiple cellular activities by facilitating cellular signal transduction. In addition to be a driver in AML which has been widely studied, the role of HOXA9 in solid tumor progression has also received increasing attention in recent years, where the aberrant expression of HOXA9 is closely associated with the prognosis of patient. This review details the signaling pathways, binding partners, post-transcriptional regulation of HOXA9, and possible inhibitors of HOXA9 in solid tumors, which provides a reference basis for further study on the role of HOXA9 in solid tumors.
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8
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Diao W, Zheng J, Li Y, Wang J, Xu S. Targeting histone demethylases as a potential cancer therapy (Review). Int J Oncol 2022; 61:103. [PMID: 35801593 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2022.5393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Post‑translational modifications of histones by histone demethylases have an important role in the regulation of gene transcription and are implicated in cancers. Recently, the family of lysine (K)‑specific demethylase (KDM) proteins, referring to histone demethylases that dynamically regulate histone methylation, were indicated to be involved in various pathways related to cancer development. To date, numerous studies have been conducted to explore the effects of KDMs on cancer growth, metastasis and drug resistance, and a majority of KDMs have been indicated to be oncogenes in both leukemia and solid tumors. In addition, certain KDM inhibitors have been developed and have become the subject of clinical trials to explore their safety and efficacy in cancer therapy. However, most of them focus on hematopoietic malignancy. This review summarizes the effects of KDMs on tumor growth, drug resistance and the current status of KDM inhibitors in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfei Diao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Jiabin Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Junjiang Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Songhui Xu
- Research Center of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
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9
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Salmon JM, Todorovski I, Stanley KL, Bruedigam C, Kearney CJ, Martelotto LG, Rossello F, Semple T, Arnau GM, Zethoven M, Bots M, Bjelosevic S, Cluse LA, Fraser PJ, Litalien V, Vidacs E, McArthur K, Matthews AY, Gressier E, de Weerd NA, Lichte J, Kelly MJ, Hogg SJ, Hertzog PJ, Kats LM, Vervoort SJ, De Carvalho DD, Scheu S, Bedoui S, Kile BT, Lane SW, Perkins AC, Wei AH, Dominguez PM, Johnstone RW. Epigenetic Activation of Plasmacytoid DCs Drives IFNAR-Dependent Therapeutic Differentiation of AML. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:1560-1579. [PMID: 35311997 PMCID: PMC9355625 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-20-1145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacologic inhibition of epigenetic enzymes can have therapeutic benefit against hematologic malignancies. In addition to affecting tumor cell growth and proliferation, these epigenetic agents may induce antitumor immunity. Here, we discovered a novel immunoregulatory mechanism through inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDAC). In models of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), leukemia cell differentiation and therapeutic benefit mediated by the HDAC inhibitor (HDACi) panobinostat required activation of the type I interferon (IFN) pathway. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) produced type I IFN after panobinostat treatment, through transcriptional activation of IFN genes concomitant with increased H3K27 acetylation at these loci. Depletion of pDCs abrogated panobinostat-mediated induction of type I IFN signaling in leukemia cells and impaired therapeutic efficacy, whereas combined treatment with panobinostat and IFNα improved outcomes in preclinical models. These discoveries offer a new therapeutic approach for AML and demonstrate that epigenetic rewiring of pDCs enhances antitumor immunity, opening the possibility of exploiting this approach for immunotherapies. SIGNIFICANCE We demonstrate that HDACis induce terminal differentiation of AML through epigenetic remodeling of pDCs, resulting in production of type I IFN that is important for the therapeutic effects of HDACis. The study demonstrates the important functional interplay between the immune system and leukemias in response to HDAC inhibition. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1397.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M. Salmon
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University and The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Izabela Todorovski
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kym L. Stanley
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claudia Bruedigam
- Cancer Program, Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Conor J. Kearney
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Luciano G. Martelotto
- Single Cell Innovation Lab, Department of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fernando Rossello
- Single Cell Innovation Lab, Department of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,University of Melbourne Centre for Cancer Research, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy Semple
- Molecular Genomics Core, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gisela Mir Arnau
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Molecular Genomics Core, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Magnus Zethoven
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Bots
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stefan Bjelosevic
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leonie A. Cluse
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter J. Fraser
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Veronique Litalien
- Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University and The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eva Vidacs
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate McArthur
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Antony Y. Matthews
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia
| | - Elise Gressier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicole A. de Weerd
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia
| | - Jens Lichte
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Madison J. Kelly
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simon J. Hogg
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul J. Hertzog
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia
| | - Lev M. Kats
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephin J. Vervoort
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel D. De Carvalho
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Stefanie Scheu
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sammy Bedoui
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Benjamin T. Kile
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Steven W. Lane
- Cancer Program, Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andrew C. Perkins
- Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University and The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew H. Wei
- Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University and The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Pilar M. Dominguez
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Corresponding Authors: Ricky W. Johnstone, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia. Phone: 61-855-97133; E-mail: ; and Pilar M. Dominguez, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia. Phone: 61-481-880-373; E-mail:
| | - Ricky W. Johnstone
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Corresponding Authors: Ricky W. Johnstone, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia. Phone: 61-855-97133; E-mail: ; and Pilar M. Dominguez, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia. Phone: 61-481-880-373; E-mail:
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10
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Alexandrova E, Salvati A, Pecoraro G, Lamberti J, Melone V, Sellitto A, Rizzo F, Giurato G, Tarallo R, Nassa G, Weisz A. Histone Methyltransferase DOT1L as a Promising Epigenetic Target for Treatment of Solid Tumors. Front Genet 2022; 13:864612. [PMID: 35495127 PMCID: PMC9043692 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.864612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The histone lysine methyltransferase DOT1L (DOT1-like histone lysine methyltransferase) is responsible for the epigenetic regulation of gene expression through specific methylation of lysine79 residue of histone H3 (H3K79) in actively transcribed genes. Its normal activity is crucial for embryonic development and adult tissues functions, whereas its aberrant functioning is known to contribute to leukemogenesis. DOT1L is the only lysine methyltransferase that does not contain a SET domain, which is a feature that allowed the development of selective DOT1L inhibitors that are currently investigated in Phase I clinical trials for cancer treatment. Recently, abnormal expression of this enzyme has been associated with poor survival and increased aggressiveness of several solid tumors. In this review evidences of aberrant DOT1L expression and activity in breast, ovarian, prostate, colon, and other solid tumors, and its relationships with biological and clinical behavior of the disease and response to therapies, are summarized. Current knowledge of the structural basis of DOT1L ability to regulate cell proliferation, invasion, plasticity and stemness, cell cycle progression, cell-to-cell signaling, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and chemoresistance, through cooperation with several molecular partners including noncoding RNAs, is also reviewed. Finally, available options for the treatment of therapeutically challenging solid tumors by targeting DOT1L are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Alexandrova
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Annamaria Salvati
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Medical Genomics Program and Division of Oncology, AOU “S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona”, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pecoraro
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Jessica Lamberti
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Viola Melone
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Assunta Sellitto
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Francesca Rizzo
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Giorgio Giurato
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Roberta Tarallo
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Giovanni Nassa
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giovanni Nassa, ; Alessandro Weisz,
| | - Alessandro Weisz
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Medical Genomics Program and Division of Oncology, AOU “S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona”, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giovanni Nassa, ; Alessandro Weisz,
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11
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Zhang J, Gao X, Yu L. Roles of Histone Deacetylases in Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Fusion Proteins. Front Oncol 2021; 11:741746. [PMID: 34540702 PMCID: PMC8440836 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.741746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate orchestration of gene expression is critical for the process of normal hematopoiesis, and dysregulation is closely associated with leukemogenesis. Epigenetic aberration is one of the major causes contributing to acute myeloid leukemia (AML), where chromosomal rearrangements are frequently found. Increasing evidences have shown the pivotal roles of histone deacetylases (HDACs) in chromatin remodeling, which are involved in stemness maintenance, cell fate determination, proliferation and differentiation, via mastering the transcriptional switch of key genes. In abnormal, these functions can be bloomed to elicit carcinogenesis. Presently, HDAC family members are appealing targets for drug exploration, many of which have been deployed to the AML treatment. As the majority of AML events are associated with chromosomal translocation resulting in oncogenic fusion proteins, it is valuable to comprehensively understand the mutual interactions between HDACs and oncogenic proteins. Therefore, we reviewed the process of leukemogenesis and roles of HDAC members acting in this progress, providing an insight for the target anchoring, investigation of hyperacetylated-agents, and how the current knowledge could be applied in AML treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Hematological Malignancies, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuefeng Gao
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Hematological Malignancies, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Hematological Malignancies, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
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12
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Gene Transcription as a Therapeutic Target in Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147340. [PMID: 34298959 PMCID: PMC8304797 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood malignancies often arise from undifferentiated hematopoietic stem cells or partially differentiated stem-like cells. A tight balance of multipotency and differentiation, cell division, and quiescence underlying normal hematopoiesis requires a special program governed by the transcriptional machinery. Acquisition of drug resistance by tumor cells also involves reprogramming of their transcriptional landscape. Limiting tumor cell plasticity by disabling reprogramming of the gene transcription is a promising strategy for improvement of treatment outcomes. Herein, we review the molecular mechanisms of action of transcription-targeted drugs in hematological malignancies (largely in leukemia) with particular respect to the results of clinical trials.
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13
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Luo W, Ige OO, Beacon TH, Su RC, Huang S, Davie JR, Lakowski TM. The treatment of SARS-CoV2 with antivirals and mitigation of the cytokine storm syndrome: the role of gene expression. Genome 2020; 64:400-415. [PMID: 33197212 DOI: 10.1139/gen-2020-0130] [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: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In the absence of a vaccine, the treatment of SARS-CoV2 has focused on eliminating the virus with antivirals or mitigating the cytokine storm syndrome (CSS) that leads to the most common cause of death: respiratory failure. Herein we discuss the mechanisms of antiviral treatments for SARS-CoV2 and treatment strategies for the CSS. Antivirals that have shown in vitro activity against SARS-CoV2, or the closely related SARS-CoV1 and MERS-CoV, are compared on the enzymatic level and by potency in cells. For treatment of the CSS, we discuss medications that reduce the effects or expression of cytokines involved in the CSS with an emphasis on those that reduce IL-6 because of its central role in the development of the CSS. We show that some of the medications covered influence the activity or expression of enzymes involved in epigenetic processes and specifically those that add or remove modifications to histones or DNA. Where available, the latest clinical data showing the efficacy of the medications is presented. With respect to their mechanisms, we explain why some medications are successful, why others have failed, and why some untested medications may yet prove useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxia Luo
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Laboratory, College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada
| | - Olufola O Ige
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Laboratory, College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada
| | - Tasnim H Beacon
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Ruey-Chyi Su
- National HIV and Retrovirology Laboratory, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Shujun Huang
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Laboratory, College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada
| | - James R Davie
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Ted M Lakowski
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Laboratory, College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada
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14
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Wong NHM, So CWE. Novel therapeutic strategies for MLL-rearranged leukemias. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194584. [PMID: 32534041 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
MLL rearrangement is one of the key drivers and generally regarded as an independent poor prognostic marker in acute leukemias. The standard of care for MLL-rearranged (MLL-r) leukemias has remained largely unchanged for the past 50 years despite unsatisfying clinical outcomes, so there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. An increasing body of evidence demonstrates that a vast number of epigenetic regulators are directly or indirectly involved in MLL-r leukemia, and they are responsible for supporting the aberrant gene expression program mediated by MLL-fusions. Unlike genetic mutations, epigenetic modifications can be reversed by pharmacologic targeting of the responsible epigenetic regulators. This leads to significant interest in developing epigenetic therapies for MLL-r leukemia. Intriguingly, many of the epigenetic enzymes also involve in DNA damage response (DDR), which can be potential targets for synthetic lethality-induced therapies. In this review, we will summarize some of the recent advances in the development of epigenetic and DDR therapeutics by targeting epigenetic regulators or protein complexes that mediate MLL-r leukemia gene expression program and key players in DDR that safeguard essential genome integrity. The rationale and molecular mechanisms underpinning the therapeutic effects will also be discussed with a focus on how these treatments can disrupt MLL-fusion mediated transcriptional programs and impair DDR, which may help overcome treatment resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nok-Hei Mickey Wong
- Department of Haematological Medicine, Division of Cancer Studies, Leukemia and Stem Cell Biology Team, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Chi Wai Eric So
- Department of Haematological Medicine, Division of Cancer Studies, Leukemia and Stem Cell Biology Team, King's College London, London, UK.
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15
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Liu XL, Liu HQ, Li J, Mao CY, He JT, Zhao X. Role of epigenetic in leukemia: From mechanism to therapy. Chem Biol Interact 2020; 317:108963. [PMID: 31978391 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2020.108963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic variations can play remarkable roles in different normal and abnormal situations. Such variations have been shown to have a direct role in the pathogenesis of various diseases either through inhibition of tumor suppressor genes or increasing the expression of oncogenes. Enzymes involving in epigenetic machinery are the main actors in tuning the epigenetic-based controls on gene expressions. Aberrant expression of these enzymes can trigger big chaos in the cellular gene expression networks and finally lead to cancer progression. This situation has been shown in different types of leukemia, where high or low levels of an epigenetic enzyme are partly or highly responsible for the involvement or progression of a disease. DNA hypermethylation, different histone modifications, and aberrant miRNA expressions are three main epigenetic variations, which have been shown to play a role in leukemia progression. Epigenetic based treatments now are considered as novel and effective therapies in order to decrease the abnormal epigenetic modifications in patient cells. Different epigenetic-based approaches have been developed and tested to inhibit or reverse the unusual expression of epigenetic agents in leukemia. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the most prevalent acute leukemia in adults, is anaggressive hematological malignancy arising in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. With the exception of a few specific AML subtypes, the mainstays of treatment have not significantly changed over the last 20 years, and are still based on standard cytotoxic chemotherapy. In this review, we will discuss the recent development of therapeutics specifically targeting these key epigenetic programs in AML, describe their mechanism of action and present their current clinical development. Finally, we will discuss the opportunities presented by epigenetically targeted therapy in AML and will highlight future challenges ahead for the AML community, to ensure that this novel therapeutics are optimally translated into clinical practice and result in clinical improvement for AML patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Liang Liu
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, China
| | - Huan-Qiu Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, China
| | - Ji Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, China
| | - Cui-Ying Mao
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jin-Ting He
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, Jilin Province, China.
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Paediatrics, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, China.
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16
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San José-Enériz E, Gimenez-Camino N, Agirre X, Prosper F. HDAC Inhibitors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111794. [PMID: 31739588 PMCID: PMC6896008 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy characterized by uncontrolled proliferation, differentiation arrest, and accumulation of immature myeloid progenitors. Although clinical advances in AML have been made, especially in young patients, long-term disease-free survival remains poor, making this disease an unmet therapeutic challenge. Epigenetic alterations and mutations in epigenetic regulators contribute to the pathogenesis of AML, supporting the rationale for the use of epigenetic drugs in patients with AML. While hypomethylating agents have already been approved in AML, the use of other epigenetic inhibitors, such as histone deacetylases (HDAC) inhibitors (HDACi), is under clinical development. HDACi such as Panobinostat, Vorinostat, and Tricostatin A have been shown to promote cell death, autophagy, apoptosis, or growth arrest in preclinical AML models, yet these inhibitors do not seem to be effective as monotherapies, but rather in combination with other drugs. In this review, we discuss the rationale for the use of different HDACi in patients with AML, the results of preclinical studies, and the results obtained in clinical trials. Although so far the results with HDACi in clinical trials in AML have been modest, there are some encouraging data from treatment with the HDACi Pracinostat in combination with DNA demethylating agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edurne San José-Enériz
- Área de Hemato-Oncología, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (E.S.J.-E.); (N.G.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Naroa Gimenez-Camino
- Área de Hemato-Oncología, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (E.S.J.-E.); (N.G.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Xabier Agirre
- Área de Hemato-Oncología, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (E.S.J.-E.); (N.G.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (X.A.); (F.P.); Tel.: +34-948-194700 (ext. 1002) (X.A.); +34-948-255400 (ext. 5807) (F.P.)
| | - Felipe Prosper
- Área de Hemato-Oncología, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (E.S.J.-E.); (N.G.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Hematología, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Correspondence: (X.A.); (F.P.); Tel.: +34-948-194700 (ext. 1002) (X.A.); +34-948-255400 (ext. 5807) (F.P.)
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17
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Lambert M, Alioui M, Jambon S, Depauw S, Van Seuningen I, David-Cordonnier MH. Direct and Indirect Targeting of HOXA9 Transcription Factor in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11060837. [PMID: 31213012 PMCID: PMC6627208 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11060837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
HOXA9 (Homeobox A9) is a homeotic transcription factor known for more than two decades to be associated with leukemia. The expression of HOXA9 homeoprotein is associated with anterior-posterior patterning during embryonic development, and its expression is then abolished in most adult cells, with the exception of hematopoietic progenitor cells. The oncogenic function of HOXA9 was first assessed in human acute myeloid leukemia (AML), particularly in the mixed-phenotype associated lineage leukemia (MPAL) subtype. HOXA9 expression in AML is associated with aggressiveness and a poor prognosis. Since then, HOXA9 has been involved in other hematopoietic malignancies and an increasing number of solid tumors. Despite this, HOXA9 was for a long time not targeted to treat cancer, mainly since, as a transcription factor, it belongs to a class of protein long considered to be an "undruggable" target; however, things have now evolved. The aim of the present review is to focus on the different aspects of HOXA9 targeting that could be achieved through multiple ways: (1) indirectly, through the inhibition of its expression, a strategy acting principally at the epigenetic level; or (2) directly, through the inhibition of its transcription factor function by acting at either the protein/protein interaction or the protein/DNA interaction interfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Lambert
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S1172 - JPArc - Centre de Recherche Jean-Pierre Aubert Neurosciences and Cancer, F-59000 Lille, France.
- Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille, F-59045 Lille, France.
| | - Meryem Alioui
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S1172 - JPArc - Centre de Recherche Jean-Pierre Aubert Neurosciences and Cancer, F-59000 Lille, France.
- Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille, F-59045 Lille, France.
| | - Samy Jambon
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S1172 - JPArc - Centre de Recherche Jean-Pierre Aubert Neurosciences and Cancer, F-59000 Lille, France.
- Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille, F-59045 Lille, France.
| | - Sabine Depauw
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S1172 - JPArc - Centre de Recherche Jean-Pierre Aubert Neurosciences and Cancer, F-59000 Lille, France.
- Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille, F-59045 Lille, France.
| | - Isabelle Van Seuningen
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S1172 - JPArc - Centre de Recherche Jean-Pierre Aubert Neurosciences and Cancer, F-59000 Lille, France.
| | - Marie-Hélène David-Cordonnier
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S1172 - JPArc - Centre de Recherche Jean-Pierre Aubert Neurosciences and Cancer, F-59000 Lille, France.
- Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille, F-59045 Lille, France.
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18
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Abstract
Cancer can be identified as a chaotic cell state, which breaks the rules that govern growth and reproduction, with main characteristics such as uncontrolled division, invading other tissues, usurping resources, and eventually killing its host. It was once believed that cancer is caused by a progressive series of genetic aberrations, and certain mutations of genes, including oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, have been identified as the cause of cancer. However, piling evidence suggests that epigenetic modifications working in concert with genetic mechanisms to regulate transcriptional activity are dysregulated in many diseases, including cancer. Cancer epigenetics explain a wide range of heritable changes in gene expression, which do not come from any alteration in DNA sequences. Aberrant DNA methylation, histone modifications, and expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key epigenetic mechanisms associated with tumor initiation, cancer progression, and metastasis. Within the past decade, cancer epigenetics have enabled us to develop novel biomarkers and therapeutic target for many types of cancers. In this review, we will summarize the major epigenetic changes involved in cancer biology along with clinical and preclinical results developed as novel cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Woo Park
- Research Center for Epigenome Regulation, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeung-Whan Han
- Research Center for Epigenome Regulation, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
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