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Ebegboni VJ, Jones TL, Brownmiller T, Zhao PX, Pehrsson EC, Rajan SS, Caplen NJ. ETS1, a Target Gene of the EWSR1::FLI1 Fusion Oncoprotein, Regulates the Expression of the Focal Adhesion Protein TENSIN3. Mol Cancer Res 2024; 22:625-641. [PMID: 38588446 PMCID: PMC11219265 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-23-1090] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The mechanistic basis for the metastasis of Ewing sarcomas remains poorly understood, as these tumors harbor few mutations beyond the chromosomal translocation that initiates the disease. Instead, the epigenome of Ewing sarcoma cells reflects the regulatory state of genes associated with the DNA-binding activity of the fusion oncoproteins EWSR1::FLI1 or EWSR1::ERG. In this study, we examined the EWSR1::FLI1/ERG's repression of transcription factor genes, concentrating on those that exhibit a broader range of expression in tumors than in Ewing sarcoma cell lines. Focusing on one of these target genes, ETS1, we detected EWSR1::FLI1 binding and an H3K27me3-repressive mark at this locus. Depletion of EWSR1::FLI1 results in ETS1's binding of promoter regions, substantially altering the transcriptome of Ewing sarcoma cells, including the upregulation of the gene encoding TENSIN3 (TNS3), a focal adhesion protein. Ewing sarcoma cell lines expressing ETS1 (CRISPRa) exhibited increased TNS3 expression and enhanced movement compared with control cells. Visualization of control Ewing sarcoma cells showed a distributed vinculin signal and a network-like organization of F-actin; in contrast, ETS1-activated Ewing sarcoma cells showed an accumulation of vinculin and F-actin toward the plasma membrane. Interestingly, the phenotype of ETS1-activated Ewing sarcoma cell lines depleted of TNS3 resembled the phenotype of the control cells. Critically, these findings have clinical relevance as TNS3 expression in Ewing sarcoma tumors positively correlates with that of ETS1. Implications: ETS1's transcriptional regulation of the gene encoding the focal adhesion protein TENSIN3 in Ewing sarcoma cells promotes cell movement, a critical step in the evolution of metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vernon Justice Ebegboni
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Tamara L. Jones
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Tayvia Brownmiller
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Patrick X. Zhao
- Omics Bioinformatics Facility, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Advanced Biomedical Computational Science, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Erica C. Pehrsson
- Omics Bioinformatics Facility, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Advanced Biomedical Computational Science, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Soumya Sundara Rajan
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Natasha J. Caplen
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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2
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Ding M, Xu W, Pei G, Li P. Long way up: rethink diseases in light of phase separation and phase transition. Protein Cell 2024; 15:475-492. [PMID: 38069453 PMCID: PMC11214837 DOI: 10.1093/procel/pwad057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensation, driven by multivalency, serves as a fundamental mechanism within cells, facilitating the formation of distinct compartments, including membraneless organelles that play essential roles in various cellular processes. Perturbations in the delicate equilibrium of condensation, whether resulting in gain or loss of phase separation, have robustly been associated with cellular dysfunction and physiological disorders. As ongoing research endeavors wholeheartedly embrace this newly acknowledged principle, a transformative shift is occurring in our comprehension of disease. Consequently, significant strides have been made in unraveling the profound relevance and potential causal connections between abnormal phase separation and various diseases. This comprehensive review presents compelling recent evidence that highlight the intricate associations between aberrant phase separation and neurodegenerative diseases, cancers, and infectious diseases. Additionally, we provide a succinct summary of current efforts and propose innovative solutions for the development of potential therapeutics to combat the pathological consequences attributed to aberrant phase separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingrui Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
- NuPhase Therapeutics, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Weifan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
- NuPhase Therapeutics, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Gaofeng Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Pilong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
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3
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Doll S, Schweizer L, Bollwein C, Steiger K, Pfarr N, Walker M, Wörtler K, Knebel C, von Eisenhart-Rothe R, Hartmann W, Weichert W, Mann M, Kuhn PH, Specht K. Proteomic Characterization of Undifferentiated Small Round Cell Sarcomas With EWSR1 and CIC::DUX4 Translocations Reveals Diverging Tumor Biology and Distinct Diagnostic Markers. Mod Pathol 2024; 37:100511. [PMID: 38705279 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2024.100511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Undifferentiated small round cell sarcomas (USRS) of bone and soft tissue are a group of tumors with heterogenic genomic alterations sharing similar morphology. In the present study, we performed a comparative large-scale proteomic analysis of USRS (n = 42) with diverse genomic translocations including classic Ewing sarcomas with EWSR1::FLI1 fusions (n = 24) or EWSR1::ERG fusions (n = 4), sarcomas with an EWSR1 rearrangement (n = 2), CIC::DUX4 fusion (n = 8), as well as tumors classified as USRS with no genetic data available (n = 4). Proteins extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded pretherapeutic biopsies were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively using shotgun mass spectrometry (MS). More than 8000 protein groups could be quantified using data-independent acquisition. Unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis based on proteomic data allowed stratification of the 42 cases into distinct groups reflecting the different molecular genotypes. Protein signatures that significantly correlated with the respective genomic translocations were identified and used to generate a heatmap of all 42 sarcomas with assignment of cases with unknown molecular genetic data to either the EWSR1- or CIC-rearranged groups. MS-based prediction of sarcoma subtypes was molecularly confirmed in 2 cases where next-generation sequencing was technically feasible. MS also detected proteins routinely used in the immunohistochemical approach for the differential diagnosis of USRS. BCL11B highly expressed in Ewing sarcomas, and BACH2 as well as ETS-1 highly expressed in CIC::DUX4-associated sarcomas, were among proteins identified by the present proteomic study, and were chosen for immunohistochemical confirmation of MS data in our study cohort. Differential expressions of these 3 markers in the 2 genetic groups were further validated in an independent cohort of n = 34 USRS. Finally, our proteomic results point toward diverging signaling pathways in the different USRS subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Doll
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Bavaria, Germany; OmicEra Diagnostics GmbH, Planegg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Lisa Schweizer
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Bavaria, Germany
| | | | - Katja Steiger
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nicole Pfarr
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Walker
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Klaus Wörtler
- Musculoskeletal Radiology Section, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Carolin Knebel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Wilko Weichert
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner-site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Mann
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Peer-Hendrik Kuhn
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katja Specht
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
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Strauss SJ, Berlanga P, McCabe MG. Emerging therapies in Ewing sarcoma. Curr Opin Oncol 2024; 36:297-304. [PMID: 38775200 PMCID: PMC11155282 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000001048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There is an unmet need to improve outcomes for patients for Ewing sarcoma, a rare, aggressive sarcoma with a peak incidence in adolescents and young adults (AYA). Current therapy at diagnosis involves multiagent chemotherapy and local therapy, but despite intensification of treatment, those with metastases at diagnosis and recurrent disease have poor outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS Improved understanding of Ewing sarcoma biology has identified novel targets with promising activity in Ewing sarcoma patients, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors that are now undergoing evaluation as combination and maintenance therapy. Other emerging therapies include those that target the EWSR1::FLI1 fusion oncoprotein, and act on DNA damage, cell cycle and apoptotic pathways. Immunotherapeutic approaches, particularly CAR-T-cell therapy directed at GD2, also hold promise. Recent collaborative clinical trials that have defined an international standard of care for patients with newly diagnosed Ewing sarcoma and novel platform studies with adaptive designs offer unique opportunities to investigate these therapies inclusive of all ages. SUMMARY Close international collaboration between clinicians and biologists will allow us to prioritize promising emerging therapies and develop biomarkers to facilitate their incorporation into standard of care and more rapidly translate into benefit for Ewing sarcoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra J. Strauss
- Department of Oncology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pablo Berlanga
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave-Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Martin G. McCabe
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Tlemsani C, Heske CM, Elloumi F, Pongor L, Khandagale P, Varma S, Luna A, Meltzer PS, Khan J, Reinhold WC, Pommier Y. Sarcoma_CellminerCDB: A tool to interrogate the genomic and functional characteristics of a comprehensive collection of sarcoma cell lines. iScience 2024; 27:109781. [PMID: 38868205 PMCID: PMC11167437 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109781] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are a diverse group of rare malignancies composed of multiple different clinical and molecular subtypes. Due to their rarity and heterogeneity, basic, translational, and clinical research in sarcoma has trailed behind that of other cancers. Outcomes for patients remain generally poor due to an incomplete understanding of disease biology and a lack of novel therapies. To address some of the limitations impeding preclinical sarcoma research, we have developed Sarcoma_CellMinerCDB, a publicly available interactive tool that merges publicly available sarcoma cell line data and newly generated omics data to create a comprehensive database of genomic, transcriptomic, methylomic, proteomic, metabolic, and pharmacologic data on 133 annotated sarcoma cell lines. The reproducibility, functionality, biological relevance, and therapeutic applications of Sarcoma_CellMinerCDB described herein are powerful tools to address and generate biological questions and test hypotheses for translational research. Sarcoma_CellMinerCDB (https://discover.nci.nih.gov/SarcomaCellMinerCDB) aims to contribute to advancing the preclinical study of sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Tlemsani
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cochin Hospital, Paris Cancer Institute CARPEM, Université Paris Cité, APHP. Centre, Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Paris Cancer Institute CARPEM, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Christine M. Heske
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Fathi Elloumi
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lorinc Pongor
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine, Cancer Genomics and Epigenetics Core Group, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Prashant Khandagale
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sudhir Varma
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Augustin Luna
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Computational Biology Branch, National Library of Medicine, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Paul S. Meltzer
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Javed Khan
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - William C. Reinhold
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Yves Pommier
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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6
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Yu L, Deng Y, Wang X, Santos C, Davis IJ, Earp HS, Liu P. Co-targeting JAK1/STAT6/GAS6/TAM signaling improves chemotherapy efficacy in Ewing sarcoma. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5292. [PMID: 38906855 PMCID: PMC11192891 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49667-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is a pediatric bone and soft tissue tumor treated with chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Despite intensive multimodality therapy, ~50% patients eventually relapse and die of the disease due to chemoresistance. Here, using phospho-profiling, we find Ewing sarcoma cells treated with chemotherapeutic agents activate TAM (TYRO3, AXL, MERTK) kinases to augment Akt and ERK signaling facilitating chemoresistance. Mechanistically, chemotherapy-induced JAK1-SQ phosphorylation releases JAK1 pseudokinase domain inhibition allowing for JAK1 activation. This alternative JAK1 activation mechanism leads to STAT6 nuclear translocation triggering transcription and secretion of the TAM kinase ligand GAS6 with autocrine/paracrine consequences. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of either JAK1 by filgotinib or TAM kinases by UNC2025 sensitizes Ewing sarcoma to chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo. Excitingly, the TAM kinase inhibitor MRX-2843 currently in human clinical trials to treat AML and advanced solid tumors, enhances chemotherapy efficacy to further suppress Ewing sarcoma tumor growth in vivo. Our findings reveal an Ewing sarcoma chemoresistance mechanism with an immediate translational value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Yu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Yu Deng
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Charlene Santos
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Ian J Davis
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Genetics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - H Shelton Earp
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Pengda Liu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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Folpe AL, Tetzlaff MT, Billings SD, Torres-Mora J, Borowsky AD, Santiago TC, Ameline B, Baumhoer D. Superficial Neurocristic EWSR1::FLI1 Fusion Tumor: A Distinctive, Clinically Indolent, S100 Protein/SOX10-Positive Neoplasm. Mod Pathol 2024; 37:100537. [PMID: 38866368 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2024.100537] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
It is now understood that identical gene fusions may be shared by different entities. We report a distinctive neoplasm of the skin and subcutis, harboring the Ewing sarcoma-associated EWSR1::FLI1 fusion but differing otherwise from Ewing sarcoma. Slides and blocks for 5 cutaneous neoplasms coded as other than Ewing sarcoma and harboring EWSR1::FLI1 were retrieved. Immunohistochemical and molecular genetic results were abstracted from reports. Methylation profiling was performed. Clinical information was obtained. The tumors occurred in 4 men and 1 woman (median: 25 years of age; range: 19-69 years) and involved the skin/subcutis of the back (2), thigh, buttock, and chest wall (median: 2.4 cm; range: 1-11 cm). Two tumors were present "years" before coming to clinical attention. The lesions were multinodular and circumscribed and consisted of nests of bland, round cells admixed with hyalinized collagenous bands containing spindled cells. Hemorrhage and cystic change were often present; necrosis was absent. All were diffusely S100 protein/SOX10-positive; 4 of 5 were CD99-negative. One tested case was strongly positive for NKX2.2. A variety of other tested markers were either focally positive (glial fibrillary acidic protein, p63) or negative. Molecular genetic results were as follows: EWSR1 exon 7::FLI1 exon 8, EWSR1 exon 11::FLI1 exon 5, EWSR1 exon 11::FLI1 exon 6, EWSR1 exon 7::FLI1 exon 6, and EWSR1 exon 10::FLI1 exon 6. Methylation profiling (3 cases) showed these to form a unique cluster, distinct from Ewing sarcoma. All patients underwent excision with negative margins; one received 1 cycle of chemotherapy. Clinical follow-up showed all patients to be alive without disease (median: 17 months; range: 11-62 months). Despite similar gene fusions, the morphologic, immunohistochemical, epigenetic, and clinical features of these unique EWSR1::FLI1-fused neoplasms of the skin and subcutis differ substantially from Ewing sarcoma. Interestingly, EWSR1 rearrangements involved exons 10 or 11, only rarely seen in Ewing sarcoma, in a majority of cases. Superficial neurocristic EWSR1::FLI1 fusion tumors should be rigorously distinguished from true cutaneous Ewing sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Folpe
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
| | - Michael T Tetzlaff
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Steven D Billings
- Department of Pathology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Jorge Torres-Mora
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | | | - Baptiste Ameline
- Bone Tumor Reference Center at the Institute of Medical Genetics and Pathology, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Baumhoer
- Bone Tumor Reference Center at the Institute of Medical Genetics and Pathology, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Basel Research Centre for Child Health, Basel, Switzerland
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Bayanjargal A, Taslim C, Showpnil IA, Selich-Anderson J, Crow JC, Lessnick SL, Theisen ER. DBD-α4 helix of EWSR1::FLI1 is required for GGAA microsatellite binding that underlies genome regulation in Ewing sarcoma. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.31.578127. [PMID: 38352344 PMCID: PMC10862889 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.31.578127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is the second most common bone cancer in children and young adults. In 85% of patients, a translocation between chromosomes 11 and 22 results in a potent fusion oncoprotein, EWSR1::FLI1. EWSR1::FLI1 is the only genetic alteration in an otherwise unaltered genome of Ewing sarcoma tumors. The EWSR1 portion of the protein is an intrinsically disordered domain involved in transcriptional regulation by EWSR1::FLI1. The FLI portion of the fusion contains a DNA binding domain shown to bind core GGAA motifs and GGAA repeats. A small alpha-helix in the DNA binding domain of FLI1, DBD-𝛼4 helix, is critical for the transcription function of EWSR1::FLI1. In this study, we aimed to understand the mechanism by which the DBD-𝛼4 helix promotes transcription, and therefore oncogenic transformation. We utilized a multi-omics approach to assess chromatin organization, active chromatinmarks, genome binding, and gene expression in cells expressing EWSR1::FLI1 constructs with and without the DBD-𝛼4 helix. Our studies revealed DBD-𝛼4 helix is crucial for cooperative binding of EWSR1::FLI1 at GGAA microsatellites. This binding underlies many aspects of genome regulation by EWSR1::FLI1 such as formation of TADs, chromatin loops, enhancers and productive transcription hubs.
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9
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Walker RL, Hornicek FJ, Duan Z. Transcriptional regulation and therapeutic potential of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) in sarcoma. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 226:116342. [PMID: 38848777 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116342] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Sarcomas include various subtypes comprising two significant groups - soft tissue and bone sarcomas. Although the survival rate for some sarcoma subtypes has improved over time, the current methods of treatment remain efficaciously limited, as recurrent, and metastatic diseases remain a major obstacle. There is a need for better options and therapeutic strategies in treating sarcoma. Cyclin dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) is a transcriptional kinase and has emerged as a promising target for treating various cancers. The aberrant expression and activation of CDK9 have been observed in several sarcoma subtypes, including rhabdomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chordoma. Enhanced CDK9 expression has also been correlated with poorer prognosis in sarcoma patients. As a master regulator of transcription, CDK9 promotes transcription elongation by phosphorylation and releasing RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) from its promoter proximal pause. Release of RNAPII from this pause induces transcription of critical genes in the tumor cell. Overexpression and activation of CDK9 have been observed to lead to the expression of oncogenes, including MYC and MCL-1, that aid sarcoma development and progression. Inhibition of CDK9 in sarcoma has been proven to reduce these oncogenes' expression and decrease proliferation and growth in different sarcoma cells. Currently, there are several CDK9 inhibitors in preclinical and clinical investigations. This review aims to highlight the recent discovery and results on the transcriptional role and therapeutic potential of CDK9 in sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Walker
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sarcoma Biology Laboratory, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Papanicolaou Cancer Research Building, 1550 N.W. 10(th) Avenue, Miami, FL 33136. USA
| | - Francis J Hornicek
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sarcoma Biology Laboratory, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Papanicolaou Cancer Research Building, 1550 N.W. 10(th) Avenue, Miami, FL 33136. USA
| | - Zhenfeng Duan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sarcoma Biology Laboratory, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Papanicolaou Cancer Research Building, 1550 N.W. 10(th) Avenue, Miami, FL 33136. USA.
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10
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Vincoff S, Goel S, Kholina K, Pulugurta R, Vure P, Chatterjee P. FusOn-pLM: A Fusion Oncoprotein-Specific Language Model via Focused Probabilistic Masking. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.03.597245. [PMID: 38895377 PMCID: PMC11185609 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.03.597245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Fusion oncoproteins, a class of chimeric proteins arising from chromosomal translocations, drive and sustain various cancers, particularly those impacting children. Unfortunately, due to their intrinsically disordered nature, large size, and lack of well-defined, druggable pockets, they have been historically challenging to target therapeutically: neither small molecule-based methods nor structure-based approaches for binder design are strong options for this class of molecules. Recently, protein language models (pLMs) have demonstrated success at representing protein sequences with information-rich embeddings, enabling downstream design applications from sequence alone. However, no current pLM has been trained on fusion oncoprotein sequences and thus may not produce optimal representations for these proteins. In this work, we introduce FusOn-pLM, a novel pLM that fine-tunes the state-of-the-art ESM-2 model on fusion oncoprotein sequences. We specifically introduce a novel masked language modeling (MLM) strategy, employing a binding-site probability predictor to focus masking on key amino acid residues, thereby generating more optimal fusion oncoprotein-aware embeddings. Our model improves performance on both fusion oncoprotein-specific benchmarks and disorder prediction tasks in comparison to baseline ESM-2 representations, as well as manually-constructed biophysical embeddings, motivating downstream usage of FusOn-pLM embeddings for therapeutic design tasks targeting these fusions. We have made our model publicly available to the community at https://huggingface.co/ChatterjeeLab/FusOn-pLM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shrey Goel
- Department of Computer Science, Duke University
| | | | | | - Pranay Vure
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University
| | - Pranam Chatterjee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University
- Department of Computer Science, Duke University
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University
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11
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Damer A, Hamilton L, Tu A, Johnston DL, Ramphal R, Wilson N. Primary intramedullary extradural Ewing sarcoma. Radiol Case Rep 2024; 19:2381-2389. [PMID: 38572274 PMCID: PMC10987877 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2024.02.101] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is the second most frequent primary bone tumour of childhood and adolescence. The aim of this report is to describe the imaging, pathology, clinical findings, and treatment of a primary intradural extramedullary Ewing sarcoma with a unique intracranial metastatic component in a pediatric patient. A 14-year-old girl with a history of mood disorders presented to the emergency department with a 3-week history of neck torticollis, cervical pain, paresis, and paresthesia of the upper and lower extremities on the left side. Initially, non-organic causes such as somatization or conversion disorder were suspected. She returned 3 months later when her symptoms worsened. MRI of the head and spine was performed, and demonstrated the presence of a suprasellar, retro-chiasmatic mass lesion. There was also diffuse leptomeningeal enhancement, another well-defined intradural extramedullary lesion the sacral region and several multifocal cauda equina soft tissue nodules. The patient first underwent surgery. The patient was also treated with a combination of chemotherapy (vincristine, doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide alternating with ifosfamide and etoposide (VDC/IE)) and radiation as per the Children's Oncology Group AEWS1221 protocol. Most recent imaging conducted 22 months after the initial mass discovery revealed improvement of the suprasellar mass lesion with residual stable appearance of the prominence and enhancement of the pituitary stalk and tuber cinereum. There was interval improvement of the spinal lesions with no convincing residual. Clinically, at almost three years since initial imaging findings, and 25 months since completing treatment, she is stable from an oncology perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alameen Damer
- University of Toronto, Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Leslie Hamilton
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Albert Tu
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Donna L. Johnston
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Division of Hematology/Oncology, Ottawa ON, Canada
| | - Raveena Ramphal
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Division of Hematology/Oncology, Ottawa ON, Canada
| | - Nagwa Wilson
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, ON, Canada
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12
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Jamitzky S, Altvater B, Krekeler C, Hoen L, Brandes C, Ebbinghaus J, Richter L, Kosel L, Ochs L, Farwick N, Urban K, Kluge L, Bücker L, Görlich D, Johnston ICD, Pfeifer R, Hartmann W, Rossig C, Kailayangiri S. Ganglioside SSEA-4 in Ewing sarcoma marks a tumor cell population with aggressive features and is a potential cell-surface immune target. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11935. [PMID: 38789477 PMCID: PMC11126692 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62849-8] [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: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Carbohydrate markers of immature cells during prenatal human development can be aberrantly expressed in cancers and deserve evaluation as immune targets. A candidate target in Ewing sarcoma is the globo-series ganglioside stage-specific embryonic antigen-4 (SSEA-4). We detected SSEA-4 expression on the cell surface of all of 14 EwS cell lines and in 21 of 31 (68%) primary EwS tumor biopsies. Among paired subpopulations of tumor cells with low versus high SSEA-4 expression, SSEA-4high expression was significantly and consistently associated with functional characteristics of tumor aggressiveness, including higher cell proliferation, colony formation, chemoresistance and propensity to migrate. SSEA-4low versus SSEA-4high expression was not related to expression levels of the EWSR1-FLI1 fusion transcript or markers of epithelial/mesenchymal plasticity. SSEA-4low cells selected from bulk populations regained higher SSEA-4 expression in vitro and during in vivo tumor growth in a murine xenograft model. T cells engineered to express SSEA-4-specific chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) specifically interacted with SSEA-4 positive EwS cells and exerted effective antigen-specific tumor cell lysis in vitro. In conclusion, with its stable expression and functional significance in EwS, SSEA-4 is an attractive therapeutic immune target in this cancer that deserves further evaluation for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Jamitzky
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Bianca Altvater
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Carolin Krekeler
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Laura Hoen
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Caroline Brandes
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Julia Ebbinghaus
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Lisa Richter
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Lisa Kosel
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Laurin Ochs
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Nicole Farwick
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Katja Urban
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Lena Kluge
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Lara Bücker
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Dennis Görlich
- Institute of Biostatistics and Clinical Research, University of Muenster, Schmeddingstr. 56, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Ian C D Johnston
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 68, 51429, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Rita Pfeifer
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 68, 51429, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hartmann
- Gerhard-Domagk-Institute of Pathology, University of Muenster, Domagkstr. 17, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Claudia Rossig
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany.
- Cells-in-Motion Cluster of Excellence (EXC 1003 - CiM), University of Muenster, Roentgenstr. 16, 48149, Muenster, Germany.
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Sareetha Kailayangiri
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 38149, Muenster, Germany
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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13
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Xiao Y, Zhi Y, Cao G, Ma H, Gao J, Li F. Primary Ewing's sarcoma of the uterine cervix: a case report and review of the literature. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:267. [PMID: 38769118 PMCID: PMC11106175 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05698-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ewing's sarcoma (ES) is an aggressive cancer of bone and soft tissue, most of which tend to occur in the bone. Extraosseous Ewing's sarcoma (EES) of the cervix is extremely rare. CASE PRESENTATION In the present work, we reported a 39-year-old cervical EES patient with a 2.5*2.1*1.8 cm tumor mass. According to previous literatures, our case is the smallest tumor found in primary cervical ES ever. The patient initially came to our hospital due to vaginal bleeding, and then the gynecological examination found a neoplasm between the cervical canal and partially in the external cervical orifice. The diagnosis of EES was confirmed below: Hematoxylin & Eosin staining (H&E) revealed small round blue malignant cells in biopsy specimens. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed the positive staining for CD99, NKX2.2, and FLI1. Disruption of EWSR1 gene was found by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and the EWSR1-FLI1 gene fusion was determined by next-generation sequencing (NGS). The patient received laparoscopic wide hysterectomy, bilateral adnexectomy, pelvic lymphadenectomy, and postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy and remained disease free with regular follow-up for 1 year. CONCLUSIONS Through a systematic review of previously reported cervical ES and this case, we highlighted the importance of FISH and NGS for the accuracy of ESS diagnosis, which could assist on the optimal treatment strategy. However, due to the rarity of the disease, there is no standard treatment schemes. Investigation on molecular pathological diagnosis and standardization of treatment regimens for cervical ES are critical to patients' prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Xiao
- Department of Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Zhi
- Department of Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangxu Cao
- Department of Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Heling Ma
- Department of Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinli Gao
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
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14
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Daley JD, Mukherjee E, Tufino AC, Bailey N, Bhaskar S, Periyapatna N, MacFawn I, Kunning S, Hinck C, Bruno T, Olson AC, McAllister-Lucas LM, Hinck AP, Cooper K, Bao R, Cillo AR, Bailey KM. Immunocompetent murine model of Ewing sarcoma reveals role for TGFβ inhibition to enhance immune infiltrates in Ewing tumors during radiation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.07.592974. [PMID: 38766091 PMCID: PMC11100684 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.07.592974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is an aggressive cancer diagnosed in adolescents and young adults. The fusion oncoprotein (EWSR1::FLI1) that drives Ewing sarcoma is known to downregulate TGFBR2 expression (part of the TGFβ receptor). Because TGFBR2 is downregulated, it was thought that TGFβ likely plays an inconsequential role in Ewing biology. However, the expression of TGFβ in the Ewing tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and functional impact of TGFβ in the TIME remains largely unknown given the historical lack of immunocompetent preclinical models. Here, we use single-cell RNAseq analysis of human Ewing tumors to show that immune cells, such as NK cells, are the largest source of TGFβ production in human Ewing tumors. We develop a humanized (immunocompetent) mouse model of ES and demonstrate distinct TME signatures and metastatic potential in these models as compared to tumors developed in immunodeficient mice. Using this humanized model, we study the effect of TGFβ inhibition on the Ewing TME during radiation therapy, a treatment that both enhances TGFβ activation and is used to treat aggressive ES. Utilizing a trivalent ligand TGFβ TRAP to inhibit TGFβ, we demonstrate that in combination with radiation, TGFβ inhibition both increases ES immune cell infiltration and decreases lung metastatic burden in vivo . The culmination of these data demonstrates the value of humanized models to address immunobiologic preclinical questions in Ewing sarcoma and suggests TGFβ inhibition as a promising intervention during radiation therapy to promote metastatic tumor control.
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15
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Dermawan JK, Slotkin E, Tap WD, Meyers P, Wexler L, Healey J, Vanoli F, Vanderbilt CM, Antonescu CR. Chromoplexy Is a Frequent Early Clonal Event in EWSR1-Rearranged Round Cell Sarcomas That Can Be Detected Using Clinically Validated Targeted Sequencing Panels. Cancer Res 2024; 84:1504-1516. [PMID: 38335254 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-2573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Chromoplexy is a phenomenon defined by large-scale chromosomal chained rearrangements. A previous study observed chromoplectic events in a subset of Ewing sarcomas (ES), which was linked to an increased relapse rate. Chromoplexy analysis could potentially facilitate patient risk stratification, particularly if it could be detected with clinically applied targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) panels. Using DELLY, a structural variant (SV) calling algorithm that is part of the MSK-IMPACT pipeline, we characterized the spectrum of SVs in EWSR1-fused round cell sarcomas, including 173 ES and 104 desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCT), to detect chromoplexy and evaluate its association with clinical and genomic features. Chromoplectic events were detected in 31% of the ES cases and 19% of the DSRCT cases. EWSR1 involvement accounted for 76% to 93% of these events, being rearranged with diverse noncanonical gene partners across the genome, involving mainly translocations but also intrachromosomal deletions and inversions. A major breakpoint cluster was located on EWSR1 exons 8-13. In a subset of cases, the SVs disrupted adjacent loci, forming deletion bridges. Longitudinal sequencing and breakpoint allele fraction analysis showed that chromoplexy is an early event that remains detectable throughout disease progression and likely develops simultaneously with the driver fusion. The presence of chromoplexy was validated in an external ES patient cohort with whole exome sequencing. Chromoplexy was significantly more likely to be present in cases that were metastatic at presentation. Together, this study identifies chromoplexy as a frequent genomic alteration in diverse EWSR1-rearranged tumors that can be captured by targeted NGS panels. SIGNIFICANCE Chromoplexy is detectable using targeted NGS in a substantial portion of EWSR1-rearranged round cell sarcomas as an early and persistent clonal event, expanding the genomic complexity of fusion-associated sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine K Dermawan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Emily Slotkin
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - William D Tap
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Paul Meyers
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Leonard Wexler
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - John Healey
- Department of Surgery, Orthopedic Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Fabio Vanoli
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Chad M Vanderbilt
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Cristina R Antonescu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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16
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Ruzanov P, Evdokimova V, Pachva MC, Minkovich A, Zhang Z, Langman S, Gassmann H, Thiel U, Orlic-Milacic M, Zaidi SH, Peltekova V, Heisler LE, Sharma M, Cox ME, McKee TD, Zaidi M, Lapouble E, McPherson JD, Delattre O, Radvanyi L, Burdach SE, Stein LD, Sorensen PH. Oncogenic ETS fusions promote DNA damage and proinflammatory responses via pericentromeric RNAs in extracellular vesicles. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e169470. [PMID: 38530366 PMCID: PMC11060741 DOI: 10.1172/jci169470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant expression of the E26 transformation-specific (ETS) transcription factors characterizes numerous human malignancies. Many of these proteins, including EWS:FLI1 and EWS:ERG fusions in Ewing sarcoma (EwS) and TMPRSS2:ERG in prostate cancer (PCa), drive oncogenic programs via binding to GGAA repeats. We report here that both EWS:FLI1 and ERG bind and transcriptionally activate GGAA-rich pericentromeric heterochromatin. The respective pathogen-like HSAT2 and HSAT3 RNAs, together with LINE, SINE, ERV, and other repeat transcripts, are expressed in EwS and PCa tumors, secreted in extracellular vesicles (EVs), and are highly elevated in plasma of patients with EwS with metastatic disease. High human satellite 2 and 3 (HSAT2,3) levels in EWS:FLI1- or ERG-expressing cells and tumors were associated with induction of G2/M checkpoint, mitotic spindle, and DNA damage programs. These programs were also activated in EwS EV-treated fibroblasts, coincident with accumulation of HSAT2,3 RNAs, proinflammatory responses, mitotic defects, and senescence. Mechanistically, HSAT2,3-enriched cancer EVs induced cGAS-TBK1 innate immune signaling and formation of cytosolic granules positive for double-strand RNAs, RNA-DNA, and cGAS. Hence, aberrantly expressed ETS proteins derepress pericentromeric heterochromatin, yielding pathogenic RNAs that transmit genotoxic stress and inflammation to local and distant sites. Monitoring HSAT2,3 plasma levels and preventing their dissemination may thus improve therapeutic strategies and blood-based diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ruzanov
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Manideep C. Pachva
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre and
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alon Minkovich
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zhenbo Zhang
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sofya Langman
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre and
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hendrik Gassmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Cancer Research Center, Kinderklinik München Schwabing, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Uwe Thiel
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Cancer Research Center, Kinderklinik München Schwabing, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Syed H. Zaidi
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vanya Peltekova
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Manju Sharma
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael E. Cox
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Trevor D. McKee
- STTARR Innovation Centre, Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Pathomics Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Zaidi
- Pathomics Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eve Lapouble
- Unité Génétique Somatique (UGS), Institut Curie, Centre Hospitalier Paris, France
| | - John D. McPherson
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Olivier Delattre
- Unité Génétique Somatique (UGS), Institut Curie, Centre Hospitalier Paris, France
- Diversity and Plasticity of Childhood tumors, INSERM U830, Institut Curie Research Center, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Laszlo Radvanyi
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stefan E.G. Burdach
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre and
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Cancer Research Center, Kinderklinik München Schwabing, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- CCC München Comprehensive Cancer Center, DKTK German Cancer Consortium, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, Translation Pediatric Cancer Research Action, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Lincoln D. Stein
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Poul H. Sorensen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre and
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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17
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Salama H, Abu-Hilal LH, Idkedek M, Kharousha A, Abulihya M, Nimer H. Primary extraskeletal intradural Ewing sarcoma with acute hemorrhage: a case report and review of the literature. J Med Case Rep 2024; 18:144. [PMID: 38459600 PMCID: PMC10924417 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-024-04384-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord tumors present a challenge in diagnosis and treatment due to their varied histopathological characteristics. While Ewing sarcoma is a rare malignant tumor typically originating from skeletal bone, cases of primary intradural extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma are exceptionally rare. The similarity of its presentation to other spinal tumors further complicates its identification and management. CASE PRESENTATION We report a case of a 58-year-old Palestinian male with intradural extraskeletal lumbar Ewing sarcoma. The patient initially presented with lower back pain and bilateral S1 radiculopathy, with more severe symptoms on the left side. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 7 cm oval-shaped mass with homogeneous contrast enhancement, obstructing the spinal canal from L3/L4 to L5/S1 levels. Initially, a myxopapillary ependymoma was suspected, but the patient's sensory and motor functions suddenly deteriorated during hospitalization. Repeat magnetic resonance imaging indicated heterogeneous contrast enhancement, indicating acute intratumoral hemorrhage. Consequently, the patient underwent emergent L3-L5 laminotomy, with successful gross total resection of the tumor. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed the diagnosis of intradural extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma. Adjuvant therapy was administered to minimize the risk of local recurrence or distant metastasis. A systematic review of relevant literature, along with retrospective analysis of medical records, operative reports, radiological studies, and histopathological findings of similar cases, was also conducted. CONCLUSIONS Intradural extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma is an infrequently encountered condition in adult patients, emphasizing the importance of considering it in the differential diagnosis of spinal tumors. Surgeons must possess a comprehensive understanding of this rare entity to ensure accurate staging and optimal management, particularly in the early stages when prompt intervention may improve prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- HusamEddin Salama
- Medical Research Club, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Lila H Abu-Hilal
- Medical Research Club, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine.
| | - Mayar Idkedek
- Medical Research Club, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Abdalwahab Kharousha
- Department of Neurosurgery, Al-Istishari Arab Hospital, Ramallah, West Bank, Palestine
| | - Mohand Abulihya
- Department of Pathology, Al-Istishari Arab Hospital, Ramallah, West Bank, Palestine
| | - Hafez Nimer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Al-Istishari Arab Hospital, Ramallah, West Bank, Palestine
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18
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Wang J, Wang C, Hu A, Yu K, Kuang Y, Gajendran B, Zacksenhaus E, Sample KM, Xiao X, Liu W, Ben-David Y. FLI1 induces erythroleukemia through opposing effects on UBASH3A and UBASH3B expression. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:326. [PMID: 38461240 PMCID: PMC10925000 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12075-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND FLI1 is an oncogenic transcription factor that promotes diverse malignancies through mechanisms that are not fully understood. Herein, FLI1 is shown to regulate the expression of Ubiquitin Associated and SH3 Domain Containing A/B (UBASH3A/B) genes. UBASH3B and UBASH3A are found to act as an oncogene and tumor suppressor, respectively, and their combined effect determines erythroleukemia progression downstream of FLI1. METHODS Promoter analysis combined with luciferase assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis were applied on the UBASH3A/B promoters. RNAseq analysis combined with bioinformatic was used to determine the effect of knocking-down UBASH3A and UBASH3B in leukemic cells. Downstream targets of UBASH3A/B were inhibited in leukemic cells either via lentivirus-shRNAs or small molecule inhibitors. Western blotting and RT-qPCR were used to determine transcription levels, MTT assays to assess proliferation rate, and flow cytometry to examine apoptotic index. RESULTS Knockdown of FLI1 in erythroleukemic cells identified the UBASH3A/B genes as potential downstream targets. Herein, we show that FLI1 directly binds to the UBASH3B promoter, leading to its activation and leukemic cell proliferation. In contrast, FLI1 indirectly inhibits UBASH3A transcription via GATA2, thereby antagonizing leukemic growth. These results suggest oncogenic and tumor suppressor roles for UBASH3B and UBASH3A in erythroleukemia, respectively. Mechanistically, we show that UBASH3B indirectly inhibits AP1 (FOS and JUN) expression, and that its loss leads to inhibition of apoptosis and acceleration of proliferation. UBASH3B also positively regulates the SYK gene expression and its inhibition suppresses leukemia progression. High expression of UBASH3B in diverse tumors was associated with worse prognosis. In contrast, UBASH3A knockdown in erythroleukemic cells increased proliferation; and this was associated with a dramatic induction of the HSP70 gene, HSPA1B. Accordingly, knockdown of HSPA1B in erythroleukemia cells significantly accelerated leukemic cell proliferation. Accordingly, overexpression of UBASH3A in different cancers was predominantly associated with good prognosis. These results suggest for the first time that UBASH3A plays a tumor suppressor role in part through activation of HSPA1B. CONCLUSIONS FLI1 promotes erythroleukemia progression in part by modulating expression of the oncogenic UBASH3B and tumor suppressor UBASH3A.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/genetics
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/pathology
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/metabolism
- RNA, Small Interfering/genetics
- Genes, Tumor Suppressor
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/genetics
- Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang-550014, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
- Natural Products Research Center of Guizhou Province, High Tech Zone, Province Science City, Baiyun District, Guiyang, 550014, China
| | - Chunlin Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang-550014, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
- Natural Products Research Center of Guizhou Province, High Tech Zone, Province Science City, Baiyun District, Guiyang, 550014, China
| | - Anling Hu
- State Key Laboratory for Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang-550014, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
- Natural Products Research Center of Guizhou Province, High Tech Zone, Province Science City, Baiyun District, Guiyang, 550014, China
| | - Kunlin Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang-550014, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
- Natural Products Research Center of Guizhou Province, High Tech Zone, Province Science City, Baiyun District, Guiyang, 550014, China
| | - Yi Kuang
- State Key Laboratory for Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang-550014, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
- Natural Products Research Center of Guizhou Province, High Tech Zone, Province Science City, Baiyun District, Guiyang, 550014, China
| | - Babu Gajendran
- State Key Laboratory for Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang-550014, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou Province, Guiyang, 550025, People's Republic of China
| | - Eldad Zacksenhaus
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Advanced Diagnostics, Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Xiao Xiao
- State Key Laboratory for Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang-550014, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
- Natural Products Research Center of Guizhou Province, High Tech Zone, Province Science City, Baiyun District, Guiyang, 550014, China
| | - Wuling Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang-550014, Guizhou, People's Republic of China.
- Natural Products Research Center of Guizhou Province, High Tech Zone, Province Science City, Baiyun District, Guiyang, 550014, China.
| | - Yaacov Ben-David
- State Key Laboratory for Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang-550014, Guizhou, People's Republic of China.
- Natural Products Research Center of Guizhou Province, High Tech Zone, Province Science City, Baiyun District, Guiyang, 550014, China.
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19
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Mooney B, Negri GL, Shyp T, Delaidelli A, Zhang HF, Spencer Miko SE, Weiner AK, Radaoui AB, Shraim R, Lizardo MM, Hughes CS, Li A, El-Naggar AM, Rouleau M, Li W, Dimitrov DS, Kurmasheva RT, Houghton PJ, Diskin SJ, Maris JM, Morin GB, Sorensen PH. Surface and Global Proteome Analyses Identify ENPP1 and Other Surface Proteins as Actionable Immunotherapeutic Targets in Ewing Sarcoma. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:1022-1037. [PMID: 37812652 PMCID: PMC10905525 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-2187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ewing sarcoma is the second most common bone sarcoma in children, with 1 case per 1.5 million in the United States. Although the survival rate of patients diagnosed with localized disease is approximately 70%, this decreases to approximately 30% for patients with metastatic disease and only approximately 10% for treatment-refractory disease, which have not changed for decades. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies are urgently needed for metastatic and refractory Ewing sarcoma. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN This study analyzed 19 unique Ewing sarcoma patient- or cell line-derived xenografts (from 14 primary and 5 metastatic specimens) using proteomics to identify surface proteins for potential immunotherapeutic targeting. Plasma membranes were enriched using density gradient ultracentrifugation and compared with a reference standard of 12 immortalized non-Ewing sarcoma cell lines prepared in a similar manner. In parallel, global proteome analysis was carried out on each model to complement the surfaceome data. All models were analyzed by Tandem Mass Tags-based mass spectrometry to quantify identified proteins. RESULTS The surfaceome and global proteome analyses identified 1,131 and 1,030 annotated surface proteins, respectively. Among surface proteins identified, both approaches identified known Ewing sarcoma-associated proteins, including IL1RAP, CD99, STEAP1, and ADGRG2, and many new cell surface targets, including ENPP1 and CDH11. Robust staining of ENPP1 was demonstrated in Ewing sarcoma tumors compared with other childhood sarcomas and normal tissues. CONCLUSIONS Our comprehensive proteomic characterization of the Ewing sarcoma surfaceome provides a rich resource of surface-expressed proteins in Ewing sarcoma. This dataset provides the preclinical justification for exploration of targets such as ENPP1 for potential immunotherapeutic application in Ewing sarcoma. See related commentary by Bailey, p. 934.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Mooney
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gian Luca Negri
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Taras Shyp
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alberto Delaidelli
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hai-Feng Zhang
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sandra E. Spencer Miko
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amber K. Weiner
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Alexander B. Radaoui
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Rawan Shraim
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael M. Lizardo
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christopher S. Hughes
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amy Li
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amal M. El-Naggar
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Melanie Rouleau
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Wei Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Center for Antibody Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Dimiter S. Dimitrov
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Center for Antibody Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Raushan T. Kurmasheva
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Peter J. Houghton
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Sharon J. Diskin
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - John M. Maris
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Gregg B. Morin
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Poul H. Sorensen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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20
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Unat B. The Rat Sarcoma Virus (RAS) Family of Proteins in Sarcomas. Cureus 2024; 16:e57082. [PMID: 38681356 PMCID: PMC11052699 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The rat sarcoma virus (RAS) protein family plays a crucial role in facilitating communication both within and between cells, thereby governing fundamental cellular processes such as growth, survival, and differentiation. The RAS family comprises four members of small GTPases, namely Harvey RAS (H-RAS), Kirsten RAS (K-RAS, two splice variants, 4A and 4B), and Neuroblastoma RAS (N-RAS), and these are encoded by three cellular RAS genes. Mutations in these genes play a significant role in cancer development and progression. Accordingly, here we review and discuss currently available literature about the fate and function of the RAS family of proteins in sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beytullah Unat
- Orthopedics and Traumatology, Gaziantep City Hospital, Gaziantep, TUR
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21
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Luna-Arias JP, Castro-Muñozledo F. Participation of the TBP-associated factors (TAFs) in cell differentiation. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31167. [PMID: 38126142 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31167] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The understanding of the mechanisms that regulate gene expression to establish differentiation programs and determine cell lineages, is one of the major challenges in Developmental Biology. Besides the participation of tissue-specific transcription factors and epigenetic processes, the role of general transcription factors has been ignored. Only in recent years, there have been scarce studies that address this issue. Here, we review the studies on the biological activity of some TATA-box binding protein (TBP)-associated factors (TAFs) during the proliferation of stem/progenitor cells and their involvement in cell differentiation. Particularly, the accumulated evidence suggests that TAF4, TAF4b, TAF7L, TAF8, TAF9, and TAF10, among others, participate in nervous system development, adipogenesis, myogenesis, and epidermal differentiation; while TAF1, TAF7, TAF15 may be involved in the regulation of stem cell proliferative abilities and cell cycle progression. On the other hand, evidence suggests that TBP variants such as TBPL1 and TBPL2 might be regulating some developmental processes such as germ cell maturation and differentiation, myogenesis, or ventral specification during development. Our analysis shows that it is necessary to study in greater depth the biological function of these factors and its participation in the assembly of specific transcription complexes that contribute to the differential gene expression that gives rise to the great diversity of cell types existing in an organism. The understanding of TAFs' regulation might lead to the development of new therapies for patients which suffer from mutations, alterations, and dysregulation of these essential elements of the transcriptional machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pedro Luna-Arias
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, México City, Mexico
| | - Federico Castro-Muñozledo
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, México City, Mexico
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22
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Baker TM, Waise S, Tarabichi M, Van Loo P. Aneuploidy and complex genomic rearrangements in cancer evolution. NATURE CANCER 2024; 5:228-239. [PMID: 38286829 PMCID: PMC7616040 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00711-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Mutational processes that alter large genomic regions occur frequently in developing tumors. They range from simple copy number gains and losses to the shattering and reassembly of entire chromosomes. These catastrophic events, such as chromothripsis, chromoplexy and the formation of extrachromosomal DNA, affect the expression of many genes and therefore have a substantial effect on the fitness of the cells in which they arise. In this review, we cover large genomic alterations, the mechanisms that cause them and their effect on tumor development and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toby M Baker
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sara Waise
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Cancer Sciences Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Maxime Tarabichi
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IRIBHM), Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Peter Van Loo
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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23
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Salguero-Aranda C, Di Blasi E, Galán L, Zaldumbide L, Civantos G, Marcilla D, de Álava E, Díaz-Martín J. Identification of Novel/Rare EWSR1 Fusion Partners in Undifferentiated Mesenchymal Neoplasms. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1735. [PMID: 38339014 PMCID: PMC10855420 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Recurrent gene fusions (GFs) in translocated sarcomas are recognized as major oncogenic drivers of the disease, as well as diagnostic markers whose identification is necessary for differential diagnosis. EWSR1 is a 'promiscuous' gene that can fuse with many different partner genes, defining different entities among a broad range of mesenchymal neoplasms. Molecular testing of EWSR1 translocation traditionally relies on FISH assays with break-apart probes, which are unable to identify the fusion partner. Therefore, other ancillary molecular diagnostic modalities are being increasingly adopted for accurate classification of these neoplasms. Herein, we report three cases with rare GFs involving EWSR1 in undifferentiated mesenchymal neoplasms with uncertain differential diagnoses, using targeted RNA-seq and confirming with RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing. Two GFs involved hormone nuclear receptors as 3' partners, NR4A2 and RORB, which have not been previously reported. NR4A2 may functionally replace NR4A3, the usual 3' partner in extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma. The third GF, EWSR1::BEND2, has previously been reported in a subtype of astroblastoma and other rare entities, including a single case of a soft-tissue tumor that we discuss in this work. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the catalogue of mesenchymal neoplasm-bearing EWSR1 fusions continues to grow, underscoring the value of using molecular ancillary techniques with higher diagnostic abilities in the routine clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Salguero-Aranda
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, CSIC-Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain; (C.S.-A.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CB16/12/00361; CIBERONC-ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Normal and Pathological Cytology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Seville, 41004 Seville, Spain
| | - Elena Di Blasi
- Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Lourdes Galán
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, CSIC-Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain; (C.S.-A.)
| | - Laura Zaldumbide
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Cruces, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Gema Civantos
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, CSIC-Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain; (C.S.-A.)
| | - David Marcilla
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, CSIC-Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain; (C.S.-A.)
| | - Enrique de Álava
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, CSIC-Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain; (C.S.-A.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CB16/12/00361; CIBERONC-ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Normal and Pathological Cytology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Seville, 41004 Seville, Spain
| | - Juan Díaz-Martín
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, CSIC-Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain; (C.S.-A.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CB16/12/00361; CIBERONC-ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Normal and Pathological Cytology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Seville, 41004 Seville, Spain
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24
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Cho U, Cha HJ, Kim HJ, Min SK, Kim HK, Jung HR, Park G, Kim JE. FLI-1 is expressed in a wide variety of hematolymphoid neoplasms: a special concern in the differential diagnosis. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:18. [PMID: 38280044 PMCID: PMC10821826 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01284-x] [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: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Friend Leukemia Virus Integration 1 (FLI-1) is a member of E26 transformation-specific family of transcription factors that participates in hematopoietic and vascular endothelial cell development. Immunohistochemical detection of FLI-1 has been widely used to diagnose vascular tumors or, more evidently, Ewing's sarcoma. However, the expression pattern of FLI-1 in hematolymphoid neoplasms remains unclear. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the expression of FLI-1 in these tumors, focusing on high-grade lesions, which presents a diagnostic challenge by mimicking Ewing's sarcoma. We evaluated the expression FLI-1 in various types of lymphoid and plasmacytic tumors, including 27 plasmablastic lymphomas, 229 diffuse large B-cell lymphomas, 22 precursor T- or B-lymphoblastic lymphomas, 24 angioimmunoblastic-type nodal T-follicular helper cell lymphomas, 52 peripheral T-cell lymphomas, NOS, 18 Burkitt lymphomas, 18 non-gastric lymphomas of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, 38 chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphomas, 15 mantle cell lymphomas, 23 gastric MALT lymphomas, 50 plasma cell myelomas, and 38 follicular lymphomas. We calculated the H-scores of FLI-1 immunostaining, ranging from 0 to 200, and used the scores to analyze the clinicopathological significance of FLI-1 statistically. FLI-1 was expressed to varying degrees in all types of hematological tumors. FLI-1 expression was detected in 84.1% of patients (466/554). FLI-1 was highly expressed in precursor T- or B-lymphoblastic lymphomas. Follicular lymphomas exhibited low FLI-1 expression. In plasmablastic lymphoma, 85.2% of the patients were focally positive for FLI-1. FLI-1 expression did not correlate with clinicopathological variables, such as demographic data or disease stage, in patients with plasmablastic lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. However, FLI-1 overexpression was associated with poorer overall survival in patients with plasmablastic lymphoma. This study demonstrates that FLI-1 is expressed in various hematolymphoid neoplasms. FLI-1 expression can lead to diagnostic confusion, especially in small blue round cell tumors, such as lymphoblastic lymphoma, plasmablastic lymphoma, and plasma cell myeloma, when distinguishing tumors positive for CD99 and CD56 without CD3, CD20, or CD45. Our findings also suggested the possibility of FLI-1 as a potential prognostic biomarker for plasmablastic lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uiju Cho
- Department of Pathology, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jeong Cha
- Department of Pathology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jung Kim
- Department of Pathology, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Kee Min
- Department of Pathology, Chung-ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital, Gwangmyeong, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Kyung Kim
- Department of Pathology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Ra Jung
- Department of Pathology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyeongsin Park
- Department of Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpodaero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ji Eun Kim
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Boramae Hospital, 20 Boramae-Ro 5-Gil, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 07061, Republic of Korea.
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25
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Graca Marques J, Pavlovic B, Ngo QA, Pedot G, Roemmele M, Volken L, Kisele S, Perbet R, Wachtel M, Schäfer BW. The Chromatin Remodeler CHD4 Sustains Ewing Sarcoma Cell Survival by Controlling Global Chromatin Architecture. Cancer Res 2024; 84:241-257. [PMID: 37963210 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-3950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive cancer with a defective response to DNA damage leading to an enhanced sensitivity to genotoxic agents. Mechanistically, Ewing sarcoma is driven by the fusion transcription factor EWS-FLI1, which reprograms the tumor cell epigenome. The nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex is an important regulator of chromatin function, controlling both gene expression and DNA damage repair, and has been associated with EWS-FLI1 activity. Here, a NuRD-focused CRISPR/Cas9 inactivation screen identified the helicase CHD4 as essential for Ewing sarcoma cell proliferation. CHD4 silencing induced tumor cell death by apoptosis and abolished colony formation. Although CHD4 and NuRD colocalized with EWS-FLI1 at enhancers and super-enhancers, CHD4 promoted Ewing sarcoma cell survival not by modulating EWS-FLI1 activity and its oncogenic gene expression program but by regulating chromatin structure. CHD4 depletion led to a global increase in DNA accessibility and induction of spontaneous DNA damage, resulting in an increased susceptibility to DNA-damaging agents. CHD4 loss delayed tumor growth in vivo, increased overall survival, and combination with PARP inhibition by olaparib treatment further suppressed tumor growth. Collectively, these findings highlight the NuRD subunit CHD4 as a therapeutic target in Ewing sarcoma that can potentiate the antitumor activity of genotoxic agents. SIGNIFICANCE CRISPR/Cas9 screening in Ewing sarcoma identifies a dependency on CHD4, which is crucial for the maintenance of chromatin architecture to suppress DNA damage and a promising therapeutic target for DNA damage repair-deficient malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Graca Marques
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Blaz Pavlovic
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Quy A Ngo
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gloria Pedot
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michaela Roemmele
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Larissa Volken
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Samanta Kisele
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Romain Perbet
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marco Wachtel
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat W Schäfer
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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26
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Ebegboni VJ, Jones TL, Brownmiller T, Zhao PX, Pehrsson EC, Rajan SS, Caplen NJ. ETS1, a target gene of the EWSR1::FLI1 fusion oncoprotein, regulates the expression of the focal adhesion protein TENSIN3. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.21.572864. [PMID: 38187702 PMCID: PMC10769395 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.21.572864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The mechanistic basis for the metastasis of Ewing sarcomas remains poorly understood, as these tumors harbor few mutations beyond the chromosomal translocation that initiates the disease. Instead, the epigenome of Ewing sarcoma (EWS) cells reflects the regulatory state of genes associated with the DNA binding activity of the fusion oncoproteins EWSR1::FLI1 or EWSR1::ERG. In this study, we examined the EWSR1::FLI1/ERG's repression of transcription factor genes, concentrating on those that exhibit a broader range of expression in tumors than in EWS cell lines. Focusing on one of these target genes, ETS1, we detected EWSR1::FLI1 binding and an H3K27me3 repressive mark at this locus. Depletion of EWSR1::FLI1 results in ETS1's binding of promoter regions, substantially altering the transcriptome of EWS cells, including the upregulation of the gene encoding TENSIN3 (TNS3), a focal adhesion protein. EWS cell lines expressing ETS1 (CRISPRa) exhibited increased TNS3 expression and enhanced movement compared to control cells. The cytoskeleton of control cells and ETS1-activated EWS cell lines also differed. Specifically, control cells exhibited a distributed vinculin signal and a network-like organization of F-actin. In contrast, ETS1-activated EWS cells showed an accumulation of vinculin and F-actin towards the plasma membrane. Interestingly, the phenotype of ETS1-activated EWS cell lines depleted of TNS3 resembled the phenotype of the control cells. Critically, these findings have clinical relevance as TNS3 expression in EWS tumors positively correlates with that of ETS1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vernon Justice Ebegboni
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Tamara L Jones
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Tayvia Brownmiller
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Patrick X Zhao
- Omics Bioinformatics Facility, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Advanced Biomedical Computational Science, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Erica C Pehrsson
- Omics Bioinformatics Facility, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Advanced Biomedical Computational Science, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Soumya Sundara Rajan
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Natasha J Caplen
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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27
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Kuo C, Amatruda JF. Seed Becoming Soil: A New Paradigm of the Ewing Sarcoma Tumor Microenvironment. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:5002-5004. [PMID: 37796143 PMCID: PMC10873080 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-2259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Cells in the tumor microenvironment, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), contribute to tumor growth and immune evasion. A recent study of Ewing sarcoma identified "CAF-like" tumor cells that mimic the protumorigenic features of CAFs. These findings highlight the role of cell plasticity in tumor growth. See related article by Wrenn et al., p. 5140.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Kuo
- Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - James F. Amatruda
- Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
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28
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Ozenberger BB, Li L, Wilson ER, Lazar AJ, Barrott JJ, Jones KB. EWSR1::ATF1 Orchestrates the Clear Cell Sarcoma Transcriptome in Human Tumors and a Mouse Genetic Model. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5750. [PMID: 38136296 PMCID: PMC10742207 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) is a rare, aggressive malignancy that most frequently arises in the soft tissues of the extremities. It is defined and driven by expression of one member of a family of related translocation-generated fusion oncogenes, the most common of which is EWSR1::ATF1. The EWSR1::ATF1 fusion oncoprotein reprograms transcription. However, the binding distribution of EWSR1::ATF1 across the genome and its target genes remain unclear. Here, we interrogated the genomic distribution of V5-tagged EWSR1::ATF1 in tumors it had induced upon expression in mice that also recapitulated the transcriptome of human CCS. ChIP-sequencing of V5-EWSR1::ATF1 identified previously unreported motifs including the AP1 motif and motif comprised of TGA repeats that resemble GGAA-repeating microsatellites bound by EWSR1::FLI1 in Ewing sarcoma. ChIP-sequencing of H3K27ac identified super enhancers in the mouse model and human contexts of CCS, which showed a shared super enhancer structure that associates with activated genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin B. Ozenberger
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA; (B.B.O.); (L.L.); (E.R.W.)
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Li Li
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA; (B.B.O.); (L.L.); (E.R.W.)
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Emily R. Wilson
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA; (B.B.O.); (L.L.); (E.R.W.)
| | - Alexander J. Lazar
- Department of Pathology, Genomic Medicine and Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Jared J. Barrott
- Department of Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
| | - Kevin B. Jones
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA; (B.B.O.); (L.L.); (E.R.W.)
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
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29
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Thway K, Fisher C. A Practical Approach to Small Round Cell Tumors Involving the Gastrointestinal Tract and Abdomen. Surg Pathol Clin 2023; 16:765-778. [PMID: 37863565 DOI: 10.1016/j.path.2023.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Small round cell neoplasms are diagnostically challenging owing to their clinical and pathologic overlap, necessitating use of large immunopanels and molecular analysis. Ewing sarcomas (ES) are the most common, but EWSR1 is translocated in several diverse neoplasms, some with round cell morphology. Molecular advances enable classification of many tumors previously termed 'atypical ES'. The current WHO Classification includes two new undifferentiated round cell sarcomas (with CIC or BCOR alterations), and a group of sarcomas in which EWSR1 partners with non-Ewing family transcription factor genes. This article reviews the spectrum of small round cell sarcomas within the gastrointestinal tract and abdomen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khin Thway
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, London SW3 6JJ, UK; Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London SW3 6JB, UK.
| | - Cyril Fisher
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London SW3 6JB, UK; Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2GW, UK
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30
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Mallard HJ, Wan S, Nidhi P, Hanscom-Trofy YD, Mohapatra B, Woods NT, Lopez-Guerrero JA, Llombart-Bosch A, Machado I, Scotlandi K, Kreiling NF, Perry MC, Mirza S, Coulter DW, Band V, Band H, Ghosal G. USP1 Expression Driven by EWS::FLI1 Transcription Factor Stabilizes Survivin and Mitigates Replication Stress in Ewing Sarcoma. Mol Cancer Res 2023; 21:1186-1204. [PMID: 37478161 PMCID: PMC10618738 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-23-0323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we identify USP1 as a transcriptional target of EWS::FLI1 and demonstrate the requisite function of USP1 in Ewing sarcoma (EWS) cell survival in response to endogenous replication stress. EWS::FLI1 oncogenic transcription factor drives most EWS, a pediatric bone cancer. EWS cells display elevated levels of R-loops and replication stress. The mechanism by which EWS cells override activation of apoptosis or cellular senescence in response to increased replication stress is not known. We show that USP1 is overexpressed in EWS and EWS::FLI1 regulates USP1 transcript levels. USP1 knockdown or inhibition arrests EWS cell growth and induces cell death by apoptosis. Mechanistically, USP1 regulates Survivin (BIRC5/API4) protein stability and the activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3/7 in response to endogenous replication stress. Notably, USP1 inhibition sensitizes cells to doxorubicin and etoposide treatment. Together, our study demonstrates that USP1 is regulated by EWS::FLI1, the USP1-Survivin axis promotes EWS cell survival, and USP1 inhibition sensitizes cells to standard of care chemotherapy. IMPLICATIONS High USP1 and replication stress levels driven by EWS::FLI1 transcription factor in EWS are vulnerabilities that can be exploited to improve existing treatment avenues and overcome drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halle J. Mallard
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Shibiao Wan
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Prakriti Nidhi
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Yvan D. Hanscom-Trofy
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Bhopal Mohapatra
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Nicholas T. Woods
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | | | - Antonio Llombart-Bosch
- Department of Pathology, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología and Patologika Laboratory, Hospital QuironSalud, Valencia, Spain
| | - Isidro Machado
- Department of Pathology, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología and Patologika Laboratory, Hospital QuironSalud, Valencia, Spain
| | - Katia Scotlandi
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Natasha F. Kreiling
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Megan C. Perry
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Sameer Mirza
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Donald W. Coulter
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Vimla Band
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Hamid Band
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Gargi Ghosal
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
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31
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Yuxiong W, Faping L, Bin L, Yanghe Z, Yao L, Yunkuo L, Yishu W, Honglan Z. Regulatory mechanisms of the cAMP-responsive element binding protein 3 (CREB3) family in cancers. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115335. [PMID: 37595431 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The CREB3 family of proteins, encompassing CREB3 and its four homologs (CREB3L1, CREB3L2, CREB3L3, and CREB3L4), exerts pivotal control over cellular protein metabolism in response to unfolded protein reactions. Under conditions of endoplasmic reticulum stress, activation of the CREB3 family occurs through regulated intramembrane proteolysis within the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Perturbations in the function and expression of the CREB3 family have been closely associated with the development of diverse diseases, with a particular emphasis on cancer. Recent investigations have shed light on the indispensable role played by CREB3 family members in modulating the onset and progression of various human cancers. This comprehensive review endeavors to provide an in-depth examination of the involvement of CREB3 family members in distinct human cancer types, accentuating their significance in the pathogenesis of cancer and the manifestation of malignant phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Yuxiong
- Department of Urology II, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130011, China
| | - Li Faping
- Department of Urology II, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130011, China
| | - Liu Bin
- Department of Urology II, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130011, China
| | - Zhang Yanghe
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130011, China
| | - Li Yao
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130011, China
| | - Li Yunkuo
- Department of Urology II, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130011, China
| | - Wang Yishu
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130011, China.
| | - Zhou Honglan
- Department of Urology II, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130011, China,.
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32
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Dupuy M, Lamoureux F, Mullard M, Postec A, Regnier L, Baud’huin M, Georges S, Brounais-Le Royer B, Ory B, Rédini F, Verrecchia F. Ewing sarcoma from molecular biology to the clinic. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1248753. [PMID: 37752913 PMCID: PMC10518617 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1248753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In Europe, with an incidence of 7.5 cases per million, Ewing sarcoma (ES) is the second most common primary malignant bone tumor in children, adolescents and young adults, after osteosarcoma. Since the 1980s, conventional treatment has been based on the use of neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapeutic agents combined with surgical resection of the tumor when possible. These treatments have increased the patient survival rate to 70% for localized forms, which drops drastically to less than 30% when patients are resistant to chemotherapy or when pulmonary metastases are present at diagnosis. However, the lack of improvement in these survival rates over the last decades points to the urgent need for new therapies. Genetically, ES is characterized by a chromosomal translocation between a member of the FET family and a member of the ETS family. In 85% of cases, the chromosomal translocation found is (11; 22) (q24; q12), between the EWS RNA-binding protein and the FLI1 transcription factor, leading to the EWS-FLI1 fusion protein. This chimeric protein acts as an oncogenic factor playing a crucial role in the development of ES. This review provides a non-exhaustive overview of ES from a clinical and biological point of view, describing its main clinical, cellular and molecular aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryne Dupuy
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, CRCI2NA, Université d'Angers, Nantes, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Franck Verrecchia
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, CRCI2NA, Université d'Angers, Nantes, France
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33
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Kim JA, Crawford KA, Spada PA, Martin LR, Zhang J, Wong R, Reid JM, Stewart CF, Frank TM, Liu Q, Michalek JE, Keller C. Non-chemotherapy adjuvant agents in TP53 mutant Ewing sarcoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14360. [PMID: 37658148 PMCID: PMC10474113 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40751-z] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (EWS) is a malignant tumor arising in bone or soft tissue that occurs in adolescent and young adult patients as well as adults later in life. Although non-metastatic EWS is typically responsive to treatment when newly diagnosed, relapsed cases have an unmet need for which no standard treatment approach exists. Recent phase III clinical trials for EWS comparing 7 vs 5 chemotherapy drugs have failed to improve survival. To extend the durability of remission for EWS, we investigated 3 non-chemotherapy adjuvant therapy drug candidates to be combined with chemotherapy. The efficacy of these adjuvant drugs was investigated via anchorage-dependent growth assays, anchorage-independent soft-agar colony formation assays and EWS xenograft mouse models. Enoxacin and entinostat were the most effective adjuvant drug in both long-term in vitro and in vivo adjuvant studies. In the context that enoxacin is an FDA-approved antibiotic, and that entinostat is an investigational agent not yet FDA-approved, we propose enoxacin as an adjuvant drug for further preclinical and clinical investigation in EWS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Ah Kim
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, 9025 NE Von Neumann Drive Ste 110, Hillsboro, OR, 97006, USA.
| | - Kenneth A Crawford
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, 9025 NE Von Neumann Drive Ste 110, Hillsboro, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Piero A Spada
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, 9025 NE Von Neumann Drive Ste 110, Hillsboro, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Leah R Martin
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, 9025 NE Von Neumann Drive Ste 110, Hillsboro, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Jiaqi Zhang
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, 9025 NE Von Neumann Drive Ste 110, Hillsboro, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Rain Wong
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, 9025 NE Von Neumann Drive Ste 110, Hillsboro, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Joel M Reid
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Clinton F Stewart
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105-2794, USA
| | - Timothy M Frank
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, 9025 NE Von Neumann Drive Ste 110, Hillsboro, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Qianqian Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Joel E Michalek
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Charles Keller
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, 9025 NE Von Neumann Drive Ste 110, Hillsboro, OR, 97006, USA.
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34
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Tanaka M, Nakamura T. Targeting epigenetic aberrations of sarcoma in CRISPR era. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2023; 62:510-525. [PMID: 36967299 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.23142] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are rare malignancies that exhibit diverse biological, genetic, morphological, and clinical characteristics. Genetic alterations, such as gene fusions, mutations in transcriptional machinery components, histones, and DNA methylation regulatory molecules, play an essential role in sarcomagenesis. These mutations induce and/or cooperate with specific epigenetic aberrations required for the growth and maintenance of sarcomas. Appropriate mouse models have been developed to clarify the significance of genetic and epigenetic interactions in sarcomas. Studies using the mouse models for human sarcomas have demonstrated major advances in our understanding the developmental processes as well as tumor microenvironment of sarcomas. Recent technological progresses in epigenome editing will not only improve the studies using animal models but also provide a direct clue for epigenetic therapies. In this manuscript, we review important epigenetic aberrations in sarcomas and their representative mouse models, current methods of epigenetic editing using CRISPR/dCas9 systems, and potential applications in sarcoma studies and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miwa Tanaka
- Project for Cancer Epigenomics, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuro Nakamura
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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35
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Reed DR, Grohar P, Rubin E, Binitie O, Krailo M, Davis J, DuBois SG, Janeway KA. Children's Oncology Group's 2023 blueprint for research: Bone tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70 Suppl 6:e30583. [PMID: 37501549 PMCID: PMC10499366 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30583] [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: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The Children's Oncology Group (COG) Bone Tumor Committee is responsible for clinical trials and biological research on localized, metastatic, and recurrent osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma (EWS). Results of clinical trials in localized disease completed and published in the past 10 years have led to international standard-of-care chemotherapy for osteosarcoma and EWS. A recent focus on identifying disease subgroups has led to the identification of biological features associated with poor outcomes including the presence of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) at diagnosis, and specific genomic alterations-MYC amplification for osteosarcoma and STAG2 and TP53 mutation for EWS. Studies validating these potential biomarkers are under way. Clinical trials evaluating the addition of multitargeted kinase inhibitors, which are active in relapsed bone sarcomas, to standard chemotherapy are under way in osteosarcoma and planned in EWS. In addition, the Committee has data analyses and a clinical trial under way to evaluate approaches to local management of the primary tumor and metastatic sites. Given the rarity of bone sarcomas, we have prioritized international interactions and are in the process of forming an international data-sharing consortium to facilitate refinement of risk stratification and study of rare disease subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damon R Reed
- Department of Individualized Cancer Management, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Patrick Grohar
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elyssa Rubin
- Department of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Orange County, Orange, California, USA
| | - Odion Binitie
- Department of Sarcoma, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Mark Krailo
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California and Children's Oncology Group, Monrovia, California, USA
| | - Jessica Davis
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Steven G DuBois
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katherine A Janeway
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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36
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Mio C, Baldan F, Damante G. NK2 homeobox gene cluster: Functions and roles in human diseases. Genes Dis 2023; 10:2038-2048. [PMID: 37492711 PMCID: PMC10363584 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
NK2 genes (NKX2 gene cluster in humans) encode for homeodomain-containing transcription factors that are conserved along the phylogeny. According to the most detailed classifications, vertebrate NKX2 genes are classified into two distinct families, NK2.1 and NK2.2. The former is constituted by NKX2-1 and NKX2-4 genes, which are homologous to the Drosophila scro gene; the latter includes NKX2-2 and NKX2-8 genes, which are homologous to the Drosophila vnd gene. Conservation of these genes is not only related to molecular structure and expression, but also to biological functions. In Drosophila and vertebrates, NK2 genes share roles in the development of ventral regions of the central nervous system. In vertebrates, NKX2 genes have a relevant role in the development of several other organs such as the thyroid, lung, and pancreas. Loss-of-function mutations in NKX2-1 and NKX2-2 are the monogenic cause of the brain-lung-thyroid syndrome and neonatal diabetes, respectively. Alterations in NKX2-4 and NKX2-8 genes may play a role in multifactorial diseases, autism spectrum disorder, and neural tube defects, respectively. NKX2-1, NKX2-2, and NKX2-8 are expressed in various cancer types as either oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Several data indicate that evaluation of their expression in tumors has diagnostic and/or prognostic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catia Mio
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Federica Baldan
- Istituto di Genetica Medica, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Damante
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
- Istituto di Genetica Medica, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Udine 33100, Italy
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37
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Fountain DM, Sauka-Spengler T. The SWI/SNF Complex in Neural Crest Cell Development and Disease. Annu Rev Genomics Hum Genet 2023; 24:203-223. [PMID: 37624665 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genom-011723-082913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
While the neural crest cell population gives rise to an extraordinary array of derivatives, including elements of the craniofacial skeleton, skin pigmentation, and peripheral nervous system, it is today increasingly recognized that Schwann cell precursors are also multipotent. Two mammalian paralogs of the SWI/SNF (switch/sucrose nonfermentable) chromatin-remodeling complexes, BAF (Brg1-associated factors) and PBAF (polybromo-associated BAF), are critical for neural crest specification during normal mammalian development. There is increasing evidence that pathogenic variants in components of the BAF and PBAF complexes play central roles in the pathogenesis of neural crest-derived tumors. Transgenic mouse models demonstrate a temporal window early in development where pathogenic variants in Smarcb1 result in the formation of aggressive, poorly differentiated tumors, such as rhabdoid tumors. By contrast, later in development, homozygous inactivation of Smarcb1 requires additional pathogenic variants in tumor suppressor genes to drive the development of differentiated adult neoplasms derived from the neural crest, which have a comparatively good prognosis in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Fountain
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom; ,
| | - Tatjana Sauka-Spengler
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom; ,
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
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38
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Klingberg D, Bae S, Zhou DDX, Sim HW, Cai R, Anazodo A, Grimison P, Lewis C, Lee YC. Association of chemotherapy dose intensity and age with outcomes in patients with Ewing's family sarcoma. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2023. [PMID: 37566390 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.13998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ewing's family sarcoma (EFS) is an aggressive malignancy with a peak incidence in adolescents. Multimodal treatment involves surgery and/or radiotherapy, and chemotherapy typically with VDC/IE (vincristine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide alternating with ifosfamide and etoposide). There is a paucity of data for the treatment of adults, with protocols extrapolated from the pediatric setting. This study aimed to assess patterns of care, chemotherapy tolerability across age groups, and outcomes from four Australian sarcoma centers. METHODS ANZSA ACCORD sarcoma database and medical records were used to identify and collect data of patients aged ≥ 10 years with EFS who received VDC/IE between 2010 and 2020. Survival outcomes were analyzed based on chemotherapy received dose intensity (RDI). Clinical predictors of RDI were explored using logistic regression. RESULTS Of 146 patients with EFS, 76 received VDC/IE. The majority had localized disease (65%). Seventy-one percent completed scheduled chemotherapy, with some requiring dose reduction (29%), delay > 7 days (65%), or cycle omission (4%). Hematological toxicity was the main reason for dose reduction/delay. Fifty-seven percent patients achieved an acceptable RDI ≥85%. Compared to those aged 10-19, the odds ratio for acceptable RDI aged 40-59 was 0.20 (95% CI 0.04-0.86, p = 0.04). RDI was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival, after accounting for age, gender, Ewing's type, primary site, and stage (adjusted HR 0.25 [95% CI 0.10-0.63], p = 0.004). CONCLUSION Survival outcomes in EFS were associated with chemotherapy RDI. Older adults more commonly required dose reduction or early cessation of treatment due to toxicity. VDC/IE chemotherapy should be carefully tailored in adults > 40 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Klingberg
- Department of Medical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susie Bae
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah Di-Xin Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hao-Wen Sim
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ruilin Cai
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Antoinette Anazodo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Grimison
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Craig Lewis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yeh Chen Lee
- Department of Medical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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39
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Gong H, Xue B, Ru J, Pei G, Li Y. Targeted Therapy for EWS-FLI1 in Ewing Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4035. [PMID: 37627063 PMCID: PMC10452796 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (EwS) is a rare and predominantly pediatric malignancy of bone and soft tissue in children and adolescents. Although international collaborations have greatly improved the prognosis of most EwS, the occurrence of macrometastases or relapse remains challenging. The prototypic oncogene EWS-FLI1 acts as an aberrant transcription factor that drives the cellular transformation of EwS. In addition to its involvement in RNA splicing and the DNA damage response, this chimeric protein directly binds to GGAA repeats, thereby modifying the transcriptional profile of EwS. Direct pharmacological targeting of EWS-FLI1 is difficult because of its intrinsically disordered structure. However, targeting the EWS-FLI1 protein complex or downstream pathways provides additional therapeutic options. This review describes the EWS-FLI1 protein partners and downstream pathways, as well as the related target therapies for the treatment of EwS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helong Gong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang 110004, China;
| | - Busheng Xue
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China;
| | - Jinlong Ru
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Centre Munich, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany;
| | - Guoqing Pei
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China;
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang 110004, China;
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40
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Fischer GM, Gliem TJ, Greipp PT, Rosenberg AE, Folpe AL, Hornick JL. Anaplastic Kaposi Sarcoma: A Clinicopathologic and Molecular Genetic Analysis. Mod Pathol 2023; 36:100191. [PMID: 37080393 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2023.100191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8)-associated vascular proliferation that most often involves the skin. Rarely, KS shows marked nuclear atypia or pleomorphism; such examples are known as "anaplastic" KS. This poorly characterized variant often pursues an aggressive course; little is known of its genetic landscape. This study evaluated the clinicopathologic and genomic features of anaplastic KS. We identified 9 anaplastic KS cases from 7 patients and 8 conventional KS cases, including a matched conventional KS and primary metastasis anaplastic KS pair from a single patient (anaplastic KS diagnosed 9 years after conventional KS). All patients with anaplastic KS were men, aged 51 to 82 years, who had locally aggressive tumors predominantly affecting the soft tissue and bone of the lower extremities (5/7 patients). Four patients were known to be HIV positive (all on antiretrovirals), 2 were HIV negative, and 1 was of unknown HIV status. The tumors showed angiosarcoma-like or pleomorphic spindle cell sarcoma morphology. Plasma cell-rich chronic inflammation and hemosiderin deposition were commonly present. Single-nucleotide polymorphism-based chromosomal microarray analysis showed the anaplastic KS cohort to demonstrate highly recurrent whole chromosome (chr) gains of chr 7, 11, 19, and 21, which primarily affected olfactory and G protein-coupled receptor signaling and losses of chr6_q and chrY. Compared with conventional KS, anaplastic KS cases showed significantly more total copy number alterations and more frequent gains of chr7 and chr11_q13.1 (MARK2, RELA, and ESRRA, including high copy number gain in 1 case). Pathway analysis demonstrated that these gains preferentially affected genes that facilitate cyclin-dependent cell signaling. Furthermore, anaplastic KS cases were phylogenetically distinct from conventional KS cases, including the patient-matched primary metastasis anaplastic KS pair and conventional KS. Our study is the first to demonstrate that a more complex genome and distinct copy number alterations distinguish anaplastic KS from conventional KS. Gains of chr7 and chr11_q13.1 appear central to biological transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant M Fischer
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Troy J Gliem
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Patricia T Greipp
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Andrew E Rosenberg
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Andrew L Folpe
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jason L Hornick
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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41
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Cohen-Gogo S, Denburg AE, Villani A, Thacker N, Egan G, Simao Rafael M, Malkin D, Morgenstern DA. Precision oncology for children: A primer for paediatricians. Paediatr Child Health 2023; 28:278-284. [PMID: 37484033 PMCID: PMC10362955 DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxac123] [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: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death in children, adolescents, and young adults beyond the newborn period in North America. Improving survival rates for patients with hard-to-cure cancer remains a challenge. One approach that has gained particular traction is 'precision oncology', whereby next-generation sequencing is used to identify genomic or transcriptomic changes that can help clarify the diagnosis, refine prognosis, define an underlying genetic cause, or identify a unique treatment target for a patient's cancer. In this primer, we provide a brief overview of the evolution of precision paediatric oncology, its current application to clinical oncology practice, and its future potential as a foundational approach to paediatric oncology care in Canada and around the world. We also address the many challenges and limitations inherent to the implementation of precision oncology as the standard of care, including ethical and economic considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Cohen-Gogo
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Avram E Denburg
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anita Villani
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nirav Thacker
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Grace Egan
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Margarida Simao Rafael
- Department of Oncology, Solid Tumor Section, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Malkin
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel A Morgenstern
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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42
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Hughes CJ, Fields KM, Danis EP, Hsu JY, Neelakantan D, Vincent MY, Gustafson AL, Oliphant MJ, Sreekanth V, Zaberezhnyy V, Costello JC, Jedlicka P, Ford HL. SIX1 and EWS/FLI1 co-regulate an anti-metastatic gene network in Ewing Sarcoma. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4357. [PMID: 37468459 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39945-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES), which is characterized by the presence of oncogenic fusion proteins such as EWS/FLI1, is an aggressive pediatric malignancy with a high rate of early dissemination and poor outcome after distant spread. Here we demonstrate that the SIX1 homeoprotein, which enhances metastasis in most tumor types, suppresses ES metastasis by co-regulating EWS/FLI1 target genes. Like EWS/FLI1, SIX1 promotes cell growth/transformation, yet dramatically inhibits migration and invasion, as well as metastasis in vivo. We show that EWS/FLI1 promotes SIX1 protein expression, and that the two proteins share genome-wide binding profiles and transcriptional regulatory targets, including many metastasis-associated genes such as integrins, which they co-regulate. We further show that SIX1 downregulation of integrins is critical to its ability to inhibit invasion, a key characteristic of metastatic cells. These data demonstrate an unexpected anti-metastatic function for SIX1, through coordinate gene regulation with the key oncoprotein in ES, EWS/FLI1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor J Hughes
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Pharmacology Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kaiah M Fields
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Molecular Biology Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Etienne P Danis
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Jessica Y Hsu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Deepika Neelakantan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Molecular Biology Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Melanie Y Vincent
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Vigeo Therapeutics, 85 Bolton St, Cambridge, MA, 02140, USA
| | - Annika L Gustafson
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Molecular Biology Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Michael J Oliphant
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Integrative Physiology Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Varsha Sreekanth
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Vadym Zaberezhnyy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - James C Costello
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Pharmacology Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Paul Jedlicka
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Heide L Ford
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Pharmacology Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Molecular Biology Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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43
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Salokas K, Dashi G, Varjosalo M. Decoding Oncofusions: Unveiling Mechanisms, Clinical Impact, and Prospects for Personalized Cancer Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3678. [PMID: 37509339 PMCID: PMC10377698 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated gene fusions, also known as oncofusions, have emerged as influential drivers of oncogenesis across a diverse range of cancer types. These genetic events occur via chromosomal translocations, deletions, and inversions, leading to the fusion of previously separate genes. Due to the drastic nature of these mutations, they often result in profound alterations of cellular behavior. The identification of oncofusions has revolutionized cancer research, with advancements in sequencing technologies facilitating the discovery of novel fusion events at an accelerated pace. Oncofusions exert their effects through the manipulation of critical cellular signaling pathways that regulate processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Extensive investigations have been conducted to understand the roles of oncofusions in solid tumors, leukemias, and lymphomas. Large-scale initiatives, including the Cancer Genome Atlas, have played a pivotal role in unraveling the landscape of oncofusions by characterizing a vast number of cancer samples across different tumor types. While validating the functional relevance of oncofusions remains a challenge, even non-driver mutations can hold significance in cancer treatment. Oncofusions have demonstrated potential value in the context of immunotherapy through the production of neoantigens. Their clinical importance has been observed in both treatment and diagnostic settings, with specific fusion events serving as therapeutic targets or diagnostic markers. However, despite the progress made, there is still considerable untapped potential within the field of oncofusions. Further research and validation efforts are necessary to understand their effects on a functional basis and to exploit the new targeted treatment avenues offered by oncofusions. Through further functional and clinical studies, oncofusions will enable the advancement of precision medicine and the drive towards more effective and specific treatments for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari Salokas
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Giovanna Dashi
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markku Varjosalo
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
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44
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Kitagawa R, Niikura Y, Becker A, Houghton PJ, Kitagawa K. EWSR1 maintains centromere identity. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112568. [PMID: 37243594 PMCID: PMC10758295 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The centromere is essential for ensuring high-fidelity transmission of chromosomes. CENP-A, the centromeric histone H3 variant, is thought to be the epigenetic mark of centromere identity. CENP-A deposition at the centromere is crucial for proper centromere function and inheritance. Despite its importance, the precise mechanism responsible for maintenance of centromere position remains obscure. Here, we report a mechanism to maintain centromere identity. We demonstrate that CENP-A interacts with EWSR1 (Ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1) and EWSR1-FLI1 (the oncogenic fusion protein in Ewing sarcoma). EWSR1 is required for maintaining CENP-A at the centromere in interphase cells. EWSR1 and EWSR1-FLI1 bind CENP-A through the SYGQ2 region within the prion-like domain, important for phase separation. EWSR1 binds to R-loops through its RNA-recognition motif in vitro. Both the domain and motif are required for maintaining CENP-A at the centromere. Therefore, we conclude that EWSR1 guards CENP-A in centromeric chromatins by binding to centromeric RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risa Kitagawa
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, Mays Cancer Center, Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Science Center San Antonio, 8403 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3000, USA
| | - Yohei Niikura
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, Mays Cancer Center, Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Science Center San Antonio, 8403 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3000, USA
| | - Argentina Becker
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, Mays Cancer Center, Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Science Center San Antonio, 8403 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3000, USA
| | - Peter J Houghton
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, Mays Cancer Center, Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Science Center San Antonio, 8403 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3000, USA
| | - Katsumi Kitagawa
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, Mays Cancer Center, Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Science Center San Antonio, 8403 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3000, USA.
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45
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Apte SS, Mor E, Mitchell C, Gyorki DE. Practical Management of Adult Ultra-Rare Primary Retroperitoneal Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A Focus on Perivascular Epithelioid Tumours and Extraosseous Ewing Sarcoma. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:5953-5972. [PMID: 37504306 PMCID: PMC10377910 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30070445] [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: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
With the exception of well-differentiated liposarcoma, dedifferentiated liposarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, solitary fibrous tumour, malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour, and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, the majority of the ≈70 histologic subtypes of retroperitoneal sarcoma are defined as 'ultra-rare' sarcomas, with an incidence of ≤1-5/1,000,000 persons/year. For most of these ultra-rare RPS subtypes, diagnosis and treatment follows international guidelines for the management of more common RPS histologies, with en bloc surgical resection as the mainstay of curative treatment, and enrolment in clinical trials where possible. Because the treatment of RPS is heavily driven by histology, the surgeon must be familiar with specific issues related to the diagnosis and management of ultra-rare sarcoma subtypes. Expert radiological and surgeon reviews are required to differentiate similarly presenting tumours where surgery can be avoided (e.g., angiomyolipoma), or where upfront systemic therapy is indicated (e.g., extraosseous Ewing's sarcoma). Thus, the management of all retroperitoneal sarcomas should occur at a sarcoma referral centre, with a multidisciplinary team of experts dedicated to the surgical and medical management of these rare tumours. In this focused review, we highlight how diagnosis and management of the ultra-rare primary RPS histologies of malignant perivascular epithelioid cell tumour (PEComa), extraosseous Ewing sarcoma (EES), extraosseous osteosarcoma (EOS), and rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) critically diverge from the management of more common RPS subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer S Apte
- Division of Cancer Surgery, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Division of General Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Eyal Mor
- Division of Cancer Surgery, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Catherine Mitchell
- Division of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - David E Gyorki
- Division of Cancer Surgery, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
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46
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Li M, Yang L, Chan AKN, Pokharel SP, Liu Q, Mattson N, Xu X, Chang W, Miyashita K, Singh P, Zhang L, Li M, Wu J, Wang J, Chen B, Chan LN, Lee J, Zhang XH, Rosen ST, Müschen M, Qi J, Chen J, Hiom K, Bishop AJR, Chen C. Epigenetic Control of Translation Checkpoint and Tumor Progression via RUVBL1-EEF1A1 Axis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206584. [PMID: 37075745 PMCID: PMC10265057 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic dysregulation is reported in multiple cancers including Ewing sarcoma (EwS). However, the epigenetic networks underlying the maintenance of oncogenic signaling and therapeutic response remain unclear. Using a series of epigenetics- and complex-focused CRISPR screens, RUVBL1, the ATPase component of NuA4 histone acetyltransferase complex, is identified to be essential for EwS tumor progression. Suppression of RUVBL1 leads to attenuated tumor growth, loss of histone H4 acetylation, and ablated MYC signaling. Mechanistically, RUVBL1 controls MYC chromatin binding and modulates the MYC-driven EEF1A1 expression and thus protein synthesis. High-density CRISPR gene body scan pinpoints the critical MYC interacting residue in RUVBL1. Finally, this study reveals the synergism between RUVBL1 suppression and pharmacological inhibition of MYC in EwS xenografts and patient-derived samples. These results indicate that the dynamic interplay between chromatin remodelers, oncogenic transcription factors, and protein translation machinery can provide novel opportunities for combination cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingli Li
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
- Division of Epigenetic and Transcriptional EngineeringBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Anthony K. N. Chan
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
- Division of Epigenetic and Transcriptional EngineeringBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Sheela Pangeni Pokharel
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
- Division of Epigenetic and Transcriptional EngineeringBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Qiao Liu
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Nicole Mattson
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Xiaobao Xu
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Wen‐Han Chang
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Kazuya Miyashita
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Priyanka Singh
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Leisi Zhang
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Maggie Li
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Jun Wu
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Jinhui Wang
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Bryan Chen
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Lai N. Chan
- Center of Molecular and Cellular OncologyYale Cancer CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenCT06510USA
- Department of Cancer BiologyLerner Research InstituteCleveland ClinicClevelandOH44195USA
| | - Jaewoong Lee
- Center of Molecular and Cellular OncologyYale Cancer CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenCT06510USA
- School of Biosystems and Biomedical SciencesCollege of Health ScienceKorea UniversitySeoul02841South Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public HealthKorea UniversitySeoul02841South Korea
| | | | | | - Markus Müschen
- Center of Molecular and Cellular OncologyYale Cancer CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenCT06510USA
| | - Jun Qi
- Department of Cancer BiologyDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMA02215USA
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
| | - Kevin Hiom
- Division of Cellular MedicineSchool of MedicineUniversity of DundeeNethergateDundeeDD1 4HNUK
| | - Alexander J. R. Bishop
- Department of Cellular Systems and AnatomyUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San AntonioSan AntonioTX78229USA
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research InstituteUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San AntonioSan AntonioTX78229USA
| | - Chun‐Wei Chen
- Department of Systems BiologyBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
- Division of Epigenetic and Transcriptional EngineeringBeckman Research InstituteCity of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer CenterDuarteCA91010USA
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47
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Perelli F, Vizzielli G, Cavaliere AF, Restaino S, Scambia G, Zannoni GF, Arciuolo D, Gallotta V. Large Pelvic Mass in a Female Adolescent: Atypical Presentation and Successful Treatment of Extraskeletal Ewing Sarcoma. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11101373. [PMID: 37239656 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11101373] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma is a rare soft tissue tumor primarily affecting pediatric patients. The treatment is currently based on a multidisciplinary approach which allows, in cases of localized disease, good survival rates. We report the case of a 15-year-old female patient with a rapidly growing suspected pelvic mass misdiagnosed following the preliminary radiological exams, which assessed the findings as a mass of ovarian origin. The girl underwent surgery and, thanks to histopathological, immunohistochemical and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) examinations, it was possible to make the right diagnosis and to administer the best treatment in terms of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, obtaining a long disease-free interval and no recurrence to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Perelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Ospedale Santa Maria Annunziata, USL Toscana Centro, Bagno a Ripoli, 50012 Firenze, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vizzielli
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, S. Maria della Misericordia University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy
- Medical Area Department (DAME), University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Anna Franca Cavaliere
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, Dipartimento Centro di Eccellenza Donna e Bambino Nascente, Fatebenefratelli Gemelli Isola Tiberina, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Restaino
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, S. Maria della Misericordia University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Dipartimento per le Scienze Della Salute Della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, UOC Ginecologia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Gian Franco Zannoni
- Pathology Unit, Department of Woman and Child's Health and Public Health Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Pathology Institute, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Damiano Arciuolo
- Pathology Unit, Department of Woman and Child's Health and Public Health Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Gallotta
- Dipartimento per le Scienze Della Salute Della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, UOC Ginecologia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
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48
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Li Q, Xu X, Jiao X. Prognostic implication of cuproptosis related genes associates with immunity in Ewing's sarcoma. Transl Oncol 2023; 31:101646. [PMID: 36871208 PMCID: PMC10006858 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101646] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence demonstrated that cuproptosis play critical roles in human cancers. We aimed to identify the roles of cuproptosis related genes (CRGs) in prognosis and immunity of Ewing's sarcoma. The data of GSE17674 and GSE63156 were obtained from GEO. The expression of 17 CRGs and immune cells were explored, then correlation was analyzed. Based on CRGs, two molecular clusters were identified by consensus clustering algorithm. KM survival and IME features including immune cells, immune response, checkpoint genes between clusters were evaluated. NFE2L2, LIAS, and CDKN2A were screened out as prognostic signatures by univariate, LASSO and step regression. A risk model was established, and validated by KM method with p = 0.0026, and perfect AUC values. The accuracy of risk model was also well validated in external dataset. A nomogram was constructed and evaluated by calibration curves and DCA. Low level of immune cells, immune response, and enriched checkpoint genes were found in high-risk group. GSEA of signatures and GSVA of ES-related pathways revealed the potential molecular mechanism involved in ES progression. Several drugs showed sensitivity to ES samples. DEGs between risk groups were screened out, and function enrichment was conducted. Finally, scRNA analysis of GSE146221 was done. NFE2L2, and LIAS played crucial role in the evolution of ES by pesudotime and trajectory methods. Our study provided new aspects for further research in ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingbo Li
- Department of Orthopedic, Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Sterile Supply Department, First People's Hospital of Jinan, Jinan, China
| | - Xiejia Jiao
- Department of Orthopedic, Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.
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49
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Selig EE, Bhura R, White MR, Akula S, Hoffman RD, Tovar CN, Xu X, Booth RE, Libich DS. Biochemical and biophysical characterization of the nucleic acid binding properties of the RNA/DNA binding protein EWS. Biopolymers 2023; 114:e23536. [PMID: 36929870 PMCID: PMC10233817 DOI: 10.1002/bip.23536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
EWS is a member of the FET family of RNA/DNA binding proteins that regulate crucial phases of nucleic acid metabolism. EWS comprises an N-terminal low-complexity domain (LCD) and a C-terminal RNA-binding domain (RBD). The RBD is further divided into three RG-rich regions, which flank an RNA-recognition motif (RRM) and a zinc finger (ZnF) domain. Recently, EWS was shown to regulate R-loops in Ewing sarcoma, a pediatric bone and soft-tissue cancer in which a chromosomal translocation fuses the N-terminal LCD of EWS to the C-terminal DNA binding domain of the transcription factor FLI1. Though EWS was shown to directly bind R-loops, the binding mechanism was not elucidated. In the current study, the RBD of EWS was divided into several constructs, which were subsequently assayed for binding to various nucleic acid structures expected to form at R-loops, including RNA stem-loops, DNA G-quadruplexes, and RNA:DNA hybrids. EWS interacted with all three nucleic acid structures with varying affinities and multiple domains contributed to binding each substrate. The RRM and RG2 region appear to bind nucleic acids promiscuously while the ZnF displayed more selectivity for single-stranded structures. With these results, the structural underpinnings of EWS recognition and binding of R-loops and other nucleic acid structures is better understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E Selig
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78229, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78229, USA
| | - Roohi Bhura
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas, 78209, USA
| | - Matthew R White
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas, 78209, USA
| | - Shivani Akula
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas, 78209, USA
| | - Renee D Hoffman
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas, 78209, USA
| | - Carmel N Tovar
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas, 78209, USA
| | - Xiaoping Xu
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78229, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78229, USA
| | - Rachell E Booth
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas, 78209, USA
| | - David S Libich
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78229, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, 78229, USA
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50
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Fischer GM, Papke DJ. Gene fusions in superficial mesenchymal neoplasms: Emerging entities and useful diagnostic adjuncts. Semin Diagn Pathol 2023:S0740-2570(23)00046-1. [PMID: 37156707 DOI: 10.1053/j.semdp.2023.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasms are diagnostically challenging because of their overlapping morphology, and, often, the limited tissue in skin biopsy specimens. Molecular and cytogenetic techniques have identified characteristic gene fusions in many of these tumor types, findings that have expanded our understanding of disease pathogenesis and motivated development of useful ancillary diagnostic tools. Here, we provide an update of new findings in tumor types that can occur in the skin and superficial subcutis, including dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, benign fibrous histiocytoma, epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma, angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma, glomus tumor, myopericytoma/myofibroma, non-neural granular cell tumor, CIC-rearranged sarcoma, hybrid schwannoma/perineurioma, and clear cell sarcoma. We also discuss recently described and emerging tumor types that can occur in superficial locations and that harbor gene fusions, including nested glomoid neoplasm with GLI1 alterations, clear cell tumor with melanocytic differentiation and ACTIN::MITF translocation, melanocytic tumor with CRTC1::TRIM11 fusion, EWSR1::SMAD3-rearranged fibroblastic tumor, PLAG1-rearranged fibroblastic tumor, and superficial ALK-rearranged myxoid spindle cell neoplasm. When possible, we discuss how fusion events mediate the pathogenesis of these tumor types, and we also discuss the related diagnostic and therapeutic implications of these events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant M Fischer
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - David J Papke
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America.
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