1
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Gutierrez WR, Rytlewski JD, Scherer A, Roughton GA, Carnevale NC, Vyas KY, McGivney GR, Brockman QR, Knepper-Adrian V, Dodd RD. Loss of Nf1 and Ink4a/Arf Are Associated with Sex-Dependent Growth Differences in a Mouse Model of Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:1218-1232. [PMID: 36826025 PMCID: PMC9955904 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45020080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is an aggressive form of cancer that accounts for half of all pediatric soft tissue sarcomas. Little progress has been made in improving survival outcomes over the past three decades. Mouse models of rhabdomyosarcoma are a critical component of translational research aimed at understanding tumor biology and developing new, improved therapies. Though several models exist, many common mutations found in human rhabdomyosarcoma tumors remain unmodeled and understudied. This study describes a new model of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma driven by the loss of Nf1 and Ink4a/Arf, two mutations commonly found in patient tumors. We find that this new model is histologically similar to other previously-published rhabdomyosarcoma models, although it substantially differs in the time required for tumor onset and in tumor growth kinetics. We also observe unique sex-dependent phenotypes in both primary and newly-developed orthotopic syngeneic allograft tumors that are not present in previous models. Using in vitro and in vivo studies, we examined the response to vincristine, a component of the standard-of-care chemotherapy for RMS. The findings from this study provide valuable insight into a new mouse model of rhabdomyosarcoma that addresses an ongoing need for patient-relevant animal models to further translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wade R. Gutierrez
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | | | - Amanda Scherer
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Grace A. Roughton
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Nina C. Carnevale
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Krisha Y. Vyas
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Gavin R. McGivney
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Qierra R. Brockman
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | | | - Rebecca D. Dodd
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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2
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Perrone C, Pomella S, Cassandri M, Pezzella M, Milano GM, Colletti M, Cossetti C, Pericoli G, Di Giannatale A, de Billy E, Vinci M, Petrini S, Marampon F, Quintarelli C, Taulli R, Roma J, Gallego S, Camero S, Mariottini P, Cervelli M, Maestro R, Miele L, De Angelis B, Locatelli F, Rota R. MET Inhibition Sensitizes Rhabdomyosarcoma Cells to NOTCH Signaling Suppression. Front Oncol 2022; 12:835642. [PMID: 35574376 PMCID: PMC9092259 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.835642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a pediatric myogenic soft tissue sarcoma. The Fusion-Positive (FP) subtype expresses the chimeric protein PAX3-FOXO1 (P3F) while the Fusion-Negative (FN) is devoid of any gene translocation. FP-RMS and metastatic FN-RMS are often unresponsive to conventional therapy. Therefore, novel therapeutic approaches are needed to halt tumor progression. NOTCH signaling has oncogenic functions in RMS and its pharmacologic inhibition through γ-secretase inhibitors blocks tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. Here, we show that NOTCH signaling blockade resulted in the up-regulation and phosphorylation of the MET oncogene in both RH30 (FP-RMS) and RD (FN-RMS) cell lines. Pharmacologic inhibition of either NOTCH or MET signaling slowed proliferation and restrained cell survival compared to control cells partly by increasing Annexin V and CASP3/7 activation. Co-treatment with NOTCH and MET inhibitors significantly amplified these effects and enhanced PARP1 cleavage in both cell lines. Moreover, it severely hampered cell migration, colony formation, and anchorage-independent growth compared to single-agent treatments in both cell lines and significantly prevented the growth of FN-RMS cells grown as spheroids. Collectively, our results unveil the overexpression of the MET oncogene by NOTCH signaling targeting in RMS cells and show that MET pathway blockade sensitizes them to NOTCH inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Perrone
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Science, "Department of Excellence 2018-2022", University of Rome "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Pomella
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Cassandri
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Radiotherapy, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Pezzella
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Maria Milano
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Colletti
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Cossetti
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Pericoli
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Di Giannatale
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Emmanuel de Billy
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vinci
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Petrini
- Confocal Microscopy Core Facility, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Concetta Quintarelli
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Josep Roma
- Group of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d'Hebron Research Insti-tute-Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Soledad Gallego
- Group of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d'Hebron Research Insti-tute-Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Simona Camero
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Mariottini
- Department of Science, "Department of Excellence 2018-2022", University of Rome "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Cervelli
- Department of Science, "Department of Excellence 2018-2022", University of Rome "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Maestro
- Unit of Oncogenetics and Functional Oncogenomics, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO Aviano) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, Italy
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Biagio De Angelis
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Rota
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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3
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Grundy M, Narendran A. The hepatocyte growth factor/mesenchymal epithelial transition factor axis in high-risk pediatric solid tumors and the anti-tumor activity of targeted therapeutic agents. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:910268. [PMID: 36034555 PMCID: PMC9399617 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.910268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials completed in the last two decades have contributed significantly to the improved overall survival of children with cancer. In spite of these advancements, disease relapse still remains a significant cause of death in this patient population. Often, increasing the intensity of current protocols is not feasible because of cumulative toxicity and development of drug resistance. Therefore, the identification and clinical validation of novel targets in high-risk and refractory childhood malignancies are essential to develop effective new generation treatment protocols. A number of recent studies have shown that the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor Mesenchymal epithelial transition factor (c-MET) influence the growth, survival, angiogenesis, and metastasis of cancer cells. Therefore, the c-MET receptor tyrosine kinase and HGF have been identified as potential targets for cancer therapeutics and recent years have seen a race to synthesize molecules to block their expression and function. In this review we aim to summarize the literature that explores the potential and biological rationale for targeting the HGF/c-MET pathway in common and high-risk pediatric solid tumors. We also discuss selected recent and ongoing clinical trials with these agents in relapsed pediatric tumors that may provide applicable future treatments for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Grundy
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Aru Narendran
- POETIC Laboratory for Preclinical and Drug Discovery Studies, Division of Pediatric Oncology, Alberta Children's Hospital, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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4
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Genetic Characterization, Current Model Systems and Prognostic Stratification in PAX Fusion-Negative vs. PAX Fusion-Positive Rhabdomyosarcoma. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12101500. [PMID: 34680895 PMCID: PMC8535289 DOI: 10.3390/genes12101500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children and adolescents and accounts for approximately 2% of soft tissue sarcomas in adults. It is subcategorized into distinct subtypes based on histological features and fusion status (PAX-FOXO1/VGLL2/NCOA2). Despite advances in our understanding of the pathobiological and molecular landscape of RMS, the prognosis of these tumors has not significantly improved in recent years. Developing a better understanding of genetic abnormalities and risk stratification beyond the fusion status are crucial to developing better therapeutic strategies. Herein, we aim to highlight the genetic pathways/abnormalities involved, specifically in fusion-negative RMS, assess the currently available model systems to study RMS pathogenesis, and discuss available prognostic factors as well as their importance for risk stratification to achieve optimal therapeutic management.
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5
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Preclinical In Vivo Modeling of Pediatric Sarcoma-Promises and Limitations. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081578. [PMID: 33918045 PMCID: PMC8069549 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric sarcomas are an extremely heterogeneous group of genetically distinct diseases. Despite the increasing knowledge on their molecular makeup in recent years, true therapeutic advancements are largely lacking and prognosis often remains dim, particularly for relapsed and metastasized patients. Since this is largely due to the lack of suitable model systems as a prerequisite to develop and assess novel therapeutics, we here review the available approaches to model sarcoma in vivo. We focused on genetically engineered and patient-derived mouse models, compared strengths and weaknesses, and finally explored possibilities and limitations to utilize these models to advance both biological understanding as well as clinical diagnosis and therapy.
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6
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Yohe ME, Heske CM, Stewart E, Adamson PC, Ahmed N, Antonescu CR, Chen E, Collins N, Ehrlich A, Galindo RL, Gryder BE, Hahn H, Hammond S, Hatley ME, Hawkins DS, Hayes MN, Hayes-Jordan A, Helman LJ, Hettmer S, Ignatius MS, Keller C, Khan J, Kirsch DG, Linardic CM, Lupo PJ, Rota R, Shern JF, Shipley J, Sindiri S, Tapscott SJ, Vakoc CR, Wexler LH, Langenau DM. Insights into pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma research: Challenges and goals. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2019; 66:e27869. [PMID: 31222885 PMCID: PMC6707829 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Overall survival rates for pediatric patients with high-risk or relapsed rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) have not improved significantly since the 1980s. Recent studies have identified a number of targetable vulnerabilities in RMS, but these discoveries have infrequently translated into clinical trials. We propose streamlining the process by which agents are selected for clinical evaluation in RMS. We believe that strong consideration should be given to the development of combination therapies that add biologically targeted agents to conventional cytotoxic drugs. One example of this type of combination is the addition of the WEE1 inhibitor AZD1775 to the conventional cytotoxic chemotherapeutics, vincristine and irinotecan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nabil Ahmed
- Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | | | | | | | | | - Rene L. Galindo
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | | | - Heidi Hahn
- University Medical Center Gӧttingen, Gӧttingen, Germany
| | | | - Mark E. Hatley
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105
| | - Douglas S. Hawkins
- Seattle Children’s Hospital, University of Washington, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98105
| | - Madeline N. Hayes
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02114
| | | | - Lee J. Helman
- Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90027
| | | | | | - Charles Keller
- Children’s Cancer Therapy Development Institute, Beaverton, OR 97005
| | - Javed Khan
- National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | | | | | - Philip J. Lupo
- Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Rossella Rota
- Children’s Hospital Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Janet Shipley
- The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - David M. Langenau
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02114
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7
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Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children and represents a high-grade neoplasm of skeletal myoblast-like cells. Decades of clinical and basic research have gradually improved our understanding of the pathophysiology of RMS and helped to optimize clinical care. The two major subtypes of RMS, originally characterized on the basis of light microscopic features, are driven by fundamentally different molecular mechanisms and pose distinct clinical challenges. Curative therapy depends on control of the primary tumour, which can arise at many distinct anatomical sites, as well as controlling disseminated disease that is known or assumed to be present in every case. Sophisticated risk stratification for children with RMS incorporates various clinical, pathological and molecular features, and that information is used to guide the application of multifaceted therapy. Such therapy has historically included cytotoxic chemotherapy as well as surgery, ionizing radiation or both. This Primer describes our current understanding of RMS epidemiology, disease susceptibility factors, disease mechanisms and elements of clinical care, including diagnostics, risk-based care of newly diagnosed and relapsed disease and the prevention and management of late effects in survivors. We also outline potential opportunities to further translate new biological insights into improved clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen X Skapek
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Andrea Ferrari
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Abha A Gupta
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip J Lupo
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Erin Butler
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Janet Shipley
- Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, Belmont, UK
| | - Frederic G Barr
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Douglas S Hawkins
- Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
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8
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Van Mater D, Xu E, Reddy A, Añó L, Sachdeva M, Huang W, Williams N, Ma Y, Love C, Happ L, Dave S, Kirsch DG. Injury promotes sarcoma development in a genetically and temporally restricted manner. JCI Insight 2018; 3:123687. [PMID: 30333301 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.123687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer results from the accumulation of genetic mutations in a susceptible cell of origin. We and others have also shown that injury promotes sarcoma development, but how injury cooperates with genetic mutations at the earliest stages of tumor formation is not known. Here, we utilized dual recombinase technology to dissect the complex interplay of the timing of KrasG12D activation, p53 deletion, and muscle injury in sarcomagenesis using a primary mouse model of soft tissue sarcoma. When mutations in oncogenic Kras and p53 are separated by 3 weeks, few sarcomas develop without injury. However, the transformation potential of these tumor-initiating cells can be unmasked by muscle injury. In the absence of Kras mutations, injury of the muscle with global deletion of p53 results in sarcomas with amplification of chromosomal regions encompassing the Met or Yap1 gene. These findings demonstrate a complex interplay between the timing of genetic mutations and perturbations in the tumor microenvironment, which provides insight into the earliest stages of sarcoma development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology
| | - Anupama Reddy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, and
| | - Leonor Añó
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | - Yan Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology
| | - Cassandra Love
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, and
| | - Lanie Happ
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, and
| | - Sandeep Dave
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, and
| | - David G Kirsch
- Department of Radiation Oncology.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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9
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Huang L, Qin Y, Zuo Q, Bhatnagar K, Xiong J, Merlino G, Yu Y. Ezrin mediates both HGF/Met autocrine and non-autocrine signaling-induced metastasis in melanoma. Int J Cancer 2017; 142:1652-1663. [PMID: 29210059 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.31196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant HGF/Met signaling promotes tumor migration, invasion, and metastasis through both autocrine and non-autocrine mechanisms; however, the molecular downstream signaling mechanisms by which HGF/Met induces metastasis are incompletely understood. We here report that Ezrin expression is stimulated by HGF and correlates with activated HGF/Met, indicating that HGF/Met signaling regulates the expression of Ezrin. We show that HGF/Met signaling activates the transcription factor Sp1 through the MAPK pathway, and activated Sp1 can in turn directly bind to the promoter of Ezrin gene and regulate its transcription. Notably, knockdown of Ezrin expression by shRNAs inhibits the metastasis induced by either HGF/Met autocrine or non-autocrine signaling in syngeneic wildtype and HGF transgenic mouse hosts. We also used small molecule drugs in preclinical mouse models to confirm that Ezrin is one of the downstream molecules mediating HGF/Met signaling-induced metastasis in melanoma. We conclude that Ezrin is a key downstream factor involved in the regulation of HGF/Met signaling-induced metastasis and demonstrate a link between Ezrin and HGF/Met/MAPK/Sp1 activation in the metastatic process. Our data indicate that Ezrin represents a promising therapeutic target for patients bearing tumors with activated HGF/Met signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Huang
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institutes, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892-4264.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifei Qin
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institutes, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892-4264
| | - Qiang Zuo
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institutes, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892-4264
| | - Kavita Bhatnagar
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institutes, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892-4264
| | - Jingbo Xiong
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Glenn Merlino
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institutes, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892-4264
| | - Yanlin Yu
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institutes, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892-4264
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10
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Comiskey DF, Jacob AG, Sanford BL, Montes M, Goodwin AK, Steiner H, Matsa E, Tapia-Santos AS, Bebee TW, Grieves J, La Perle K, Boyaka P, Chandler DS. A novel mouse model of rhabdomyosarcoma underscores the dichotomy of MDM2-ALT1 function in vivo. Oncogene 2017; 37:95-106. [PMID: 28892044 PMCID: PMC5756115 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Revised: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Alternative splicing of the oncogene murine double minute 2 (MDM2) is induced in response to genotoxic stress. MDM2-ALT1, the major splice variant generated, is known to activate the p53 pathway and impede full-length MDM2's negative regulation of p53. Despite this perceptible tumor-suppressive role, MDM2-ALT1 is also associated with several cancers. Furthermore, expression of MDM2-ALT1 has been observed in aggressive metastatic disease in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), irrespective of histological subtype. Therefore, we generated a transgenic MDM2-ALT1 mouse model that would allow us to investigate the effects of this splice variant on the progression of tumorigenesis. Here we show that when MDM2-ALT1 is ubiquitously expressed in p53 null mice it leads to increased incidence of spindle cell sarcomas, including RMS. Our data provide evidence that constitutive MDM2-ALT1 expression is itself an oncogenic lesion that aggravates the tumorigenesis induced by p53 loss. On the contrary, when MDM2-ALT1 is expressed solely in B-cells in the presence of homozygous wild-type p53 it leads to significantly increased lymphomagenesis (56%) when compared with control mice (27%). However, this phenotype is observable only at later stages in life (⩾18 months). Moreover, flow cytometric analyses for B-cell markers revealed an MDM2-ALT1-associated decrease in the B-cell population of the spleens of these animals. Our data suggest that the B-cell loss is p53 dependent and is a response mounted to persistent MDM2-ALT1 expression in a wild-type p53 background. Overall, our findings highlight the importance of an MDM2 splice variant as a critical modifier of both p53-dependent and -independent tumorigenesis, underscoring the complexity of MDM2 posttranscriptional regulation in cancer. Furthermore, MDM2-ALT1-expressing p53 null mice represent a novel mouse model of fusion-negative RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- D F Comiskey
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program and The Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - A G Jacob
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program and The Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - B L Sanford
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - M Montes
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program and The Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - A K Goodwin
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - H Steiner
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - E Matsa
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - A S Tapia-Santos
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program and The Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T W Bebee
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program and The Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - J Grieves
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Takeda California, Inc., Drug Safety Research & Evaluation 10410 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - K La Perle
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - P Boyaka
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - D S Chandler
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program and The Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
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11
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12
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Exosomes derived from embryonal and alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma carry differential miRNA cargo and promote invasion of recipient fibroblasts. Sci Rep 2016; 6:37088. [PMID: 27853183 PMCID: PMC5112573 DOI: 10.1038/srep37088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is an aggressive childhood soft tissue tumor, which exists in oncoprotein PAX-FOXO1 fusion positive and fusion negative subtypes, with the fusion-positive RMS being characterized by a more aggressive clinical behavior. Exosomes are small membranous vesicles secreted into body fluids by multiple cell types, including tumor cells, and have been implicated in metastatic progression through paracrine signaling. We characterized exosomes secreted by a panel of 5 RMS cell lines. Expression array analysis showed that, for both fusion-positive and fusion-negative cells, exosome miRNA clustered well together and to a higher extent than cellular miRNA. While enriched miRNA in exosomes of fusion-negative RMS cells were distinct from those of fusion-positive RMS cells, the most significant predicted disease and functions in both groups were related to processes relevant to cancer and tissue remodelling. Functionally, we found that RMS-derived exosomes exerted a positive effect on cellular proliferation of recipient RMS cells and fibroblasts, induced cellular migration and invasion of fibroblasts, and promoted angiogenesis. These findings show that RMS-derived exosomes enhance invasive properties of recipient cells, and that exosome content of fusion-positive RMS is different than that of fusion-negative RMS, possibly contributing to the different metastatic propensity of the two subtypes.
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13
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Regulating temporospatial dynamics of morphogen for structure formation of the lacrimal gland by chitosan biomaterials. Biomaterials 2016; 113:42-55. [PMID: 27810641 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2016.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The lacrimal gland is an important organ responsible for regulating tear synthesis and secretion. The major work of lacrimal gland (LG) is to lubricate the ocular surface and maintain the health of eyes. Functional deterioration of the lacrimal gland happens because of aging, diseases, or therapeutic complications, but without effective treatments till now. The LG originates from the epithelium of ocular surface and develops by branching morphogenesis. To regenerate functional LGs, it is required to explore the way of recapitulating and facilitating the organ to establish the intricate and ramified structure. In this study, we proposed an approach using chitosan biomaterials to create a biomimetic environment beneficial to the branching structure formation of developing LG. The morphogenetic effect of chitosan was specific and optimized to promote LG branching. With chitosan, increase in temporal expression and local concentration of endogenous HGF-related molecules creates an environment around the emerging tip of LG epithelia. By efficiently enhancing downstream signaling of HGF pathways, the cellular activities and behaviors were activated to contribute to LG branching morphogenesis. The morphogenetic effect of chitosan was abolished by either ligand or receptor deprivation, or inhibition of downstream signaling transduction. Our results elucidated the underlying mechanism accounting for chitosan morphogenetic effects on LG, and also proposed promising approaches with chitosan to assist tissue structure formation of the LG.
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14
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Otabe O, Kikuchi K, Tsuchiya K, Katsumi Y, Yagyu S, Miyachi M, Iehara T, Hosoi H. MET/ERK2 pathway regulates the motility of human alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cells. Oncol Rep 2016; 37:98-104. [PMID: 27840956 DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.5213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) that is a highly malignant pediatric soft tissue tumor, MET, a receptor of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), was reported to be downstream of the PAX3-FOXO1 fusion gene specific to ARMS, and a key mediator of metastatic behavior in RMS. So far, no studies have investigated the downstream signaling pathways of MET in ARMS, even though HGF and MET have been suggested to be deeply involved in the invasiveness of ARMS. In this study, we demonstrated the functions of MET signaling in ARMS in vitro by using three human ARMS cell lines and three human embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) cell lines. MET mRNA levels and MET protein expression in ARMS cell lines was higher than those in ERMS cell lines as detected by real-time quantitative PCR and western blotting, respectively. Based on cell growth and cell cycle analyses it was found that HGF stimulation did not enhance the proliferation of ERMS or ARMS cell lines. HGF-stimulated cell motility of ARMS cell lines was inhibited by U0126 (ERK1/2 inhibitor) but was only partially inhibited by PD98059 (ERK1 inhibitor) or rapamycin (mTOR inhibitor) as observed in wound-healing and migration assays. Western blotting revealed that ERK1/2 was dephosphorylated by U0126 to a higher extent than by PD98059 in the ARMS cells. HGF-stimulated cell motility of Rh30 cell line was inhibited not by ERK1 siRNA, but by ERK2 siRNA. Our data thus suggest that HGF/MET signaling promotes motility of ARMS cells mainly through ERK2 signaling. A specific inhibitor of ERK2 phosphorylation could therefore be a specific anticancer agent against invasiveness and metastasis in ARMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Otabe
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Ken Kikuchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Tsuchiya
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Katsumi
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Shigeki Yagyu
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Miyachi
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Tomoko Iehara
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Hajime Hosoi
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
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15
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Skrzypek K, Kusienicka A, Szewczyk B, Adamus T, Lukasiewicz E, Miekus K, Majka M. Constitutive activation of MET signaling impairs myogenic differentiation of rhabdomyosarcoma and promotes its development and progression. Oncotarget 2016; 6:31378-98. [PMID: 26384300 PMCID: PMC4741613 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a soft tissue sarcoma, which may originate from impaired differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). Expression of MET receptor is elevated in alveolar RMS subtype (ARMS) which is associated with worse prognosis, compared to embryonal RMS (ERMS). Forced differentiation of ARMS cells diminishes MET level and, as shown previously, MET silencing induces differentiation of ARMS. In ERMS cells introduction of TPR-MET oncogene leads to an uncontrolled overstimulation of the MET receptor downstream signaling pathways. In vivo, tumors formed by those cells in NOD-SCID mice display inhibited differentiation, enhanced proliferation, diminished apoptosis and increased infiltration of neutrophils. Consequently, tumors grow significantly faster and they display enhanced ability to metastasize to lungs and to vascularize due to elevated VEGF, MMP9 and miR-378 expression. In vitro, TPR-MET ERMS cells display enhanced migration, chemotaxis and invasion toward HGF and SDF-1. Introduction of TPR-MET into MSC increases survival and may induce expression of early myogenic factors depending on the genetic background, and it blocks terminal differentiation of skeletal myoblasts. To conclude, our results suggest that activation of MET signaling may cause defects in myogenic differentiation leading to rhabdomyosarcoma development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Skrzypek
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Kusienicka
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Szewczyk
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Tomasz Adamus
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewa Lukasiewicz
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Miekus
- Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Marcin Majka
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
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16
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Morena D, Maestro N, Bersani F, Forni PE, Lingua MF, Foglizzo V, Šćepanović P, Miretti S, Morotti A, Shern JF, Khan J, Ala U, Provero P, Sala V, Crepaldi T, Gasparini P, Casanova M, Ferrari A, Sozzi G, Chiarle R, Ponzetto C, Taulli R. Hepatocyte Growth Factor-mediated satellite cells niche perturbation promotes development of distinct sarcoma subtypes. eLife 2016; 5. [PMID: 26987019 PMCID: PMC4811764 DOI: 10.7554/elife.12116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) and Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma (UPS) are distinct sarcoma subtypes. Here we investigate the relevance of the satellite cell (SC) niche in sarcoma development by using Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) to perturb the niche microenvironment. In a Pax7 wild type background, HGF stimulation mainly causes ERMS that originate from satellite cells following a process of multistep progression. Conversely, in a Pax7 null genotype ERMS incidence drops, while UPS becomes the most frequent subtype. Murine EfRMS display genetic heterogeneity similar to their human counterpart. Altogether, our data demonstrate that selective perturbation of the SC niche results in distinct sarcoma subtypes in a Pax7 lineage-dependent manner, and define a critical role for the Met axis in sarcoma initiation. Finally, our results provide a rationale for the use of combination therapy, tailored on specific amplifications and activated signaling pathways, to minimize resistance emerging from sarcomas heterogeneity. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.12116.001 Soft tissue sarcomas are rare cancers that originate in tissues such as muscles, tendons, cartilage and fat. These cancers are further classified into subtypes based on their appearance. For example, rhabdomyosarcoma cells resemble the cells that normally develop into muscle, while other soft tissue tumors that do not look like a distinct cell type are called undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas. Recent experiments have suggested that although these subtypes appear different, they may both arise from the cells that build muscles. However, this had not been confirmed. Morena et al. investigated whether changing the environment – also known as the “niche” – of muscle stem cells could influence what type of sarcoma developed in mice that were prone to cancer. Normally muscle stem cells in an adult only regenerate injured muscles, and need to receive the correct cues before they divide. Among these cues is a protein called Hepatocyte Growth Factor (or HGF for short), which is produced by cells in the muscle stem cells’ niche. Morena et al. engineered mice so that the production of HGF in the muscles could be switched on or off at will. Mice that were already prone to cancer and produced a lot of HGF tended to develop rhabdomyosarcomas. However, when HGF was turned on in similar mice that also lacked normal muscle stem cells, the resulting sarcomas were predominantly undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas. These data indicate that rhabdomyosarcomas probably originate from muscle stem cells, whereas undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas develop from other cells in the niche. Lastly, Morena et al. studied the sarcomas in their mice in more detail and observed that, similar to what has been found in human rhabdomyosarcomas, individual tumors had different genetic mutations. These differences make it difficult to treat sarcomas with a single anti-cancer drug. However, the new results suggest that a combination of targeted drugs may prove effective in blocking tumor growth and in preventing resistance. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.12116.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Morena
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy
| | - Nicola Maestro
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesca Bersani
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Emanuele Forni
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy
| | - Marcello Francesco Lingua
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy
| | - Valentina Foglizzo
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy
| | - Petar Šćepanović
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Miretti
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Alessandro Morotti
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Jack F Shern
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, United States
| | - Javed Khan
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, United States
| | - Ugo Ala
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Provero
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Valentina Sala
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Gasparini
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Casanova
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Ferrari
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Sozzi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Chiarle
- CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy.,Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Carola Ponzetto
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy
| | - Riccardo Taulli
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,CeRMS, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Turin, Italy
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17
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Kashi VP, Hatley ME, Galindo RL. Probing for a deeper understanding of rhabdomyosarcoma: insights from complementary model systems. Nat Rev Cancer 2015; 15:426-39. [PMID: 26105539 PMCID: PMC4599785 DOI: 10.1038/nrc3961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a mesenchymal malignancy composed of neoplastic primitive precursor cells that exhibit histological features of myogenic differentiation. Despite intensive conventional multimodal therapy, patients with high-risk RMS typically suffer from aggressive disease. The lack of directed therapies against RMS emphasizes the need to further uncover the molecular underpinnings of the disease. In this Review, we discuss the notable advances in the model systems now available to probe for new RMS-targetable pathogenetic mechanisms, and the possibilities for enhanced RMS therapeutics and improved clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatesh P Kashi
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390-9072, USA
| | - Mark E Hatley
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, USA
| | - Rene L Galindo
- 1] Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390-9072, USA. [2] Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390-9148, USA. [3] Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390-9063, USA
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18
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Tarnowski M, Tkacz M, Czerewaty M, Poniewierska-Baran A, Grymuła K, Ratajczak MZ. 5‑Azacytidine inhibits human rhabdomyosarcoma cell growth by downregulating insulin‑like growth factor 2 expression and reactivating the H19 gene product miR‑675, which negatively affects insulin‑like growth factors and insulin signaling. Int J Oncol 2015; 46:2241-50. [PMID: 25707431 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2015.2906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) and 1 (IGF1) and insulin (INS) promote proliferation of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cells by interacting with the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) and the insulin receptor (INSR). Loss of imprinting (LOI) by DNA hypermethylation at the differentially methylated region (DMR) for the IGF2‑H19 locus is commonly observed in RMS cells and results in an increase in the expression of proliferation-promoting IGF2 and downregulation of proliferation-inhibiting non-coding H19 miRNAs. One of these miRNAs, miR‑675, has been reported in murine cells to be a negative regulator of IGF1R expression. To better address the role of IGF2 and 1, as well as INS signaling in the pathogenesis of RMS and the involvement of LOI at the IGF2‑H19 locus, we employed the DNA demethylating agent 5‑azacytidine (AzaC). We observed that AzaC‑mediated demethylation of the DMR at the IGF2‑H19 locus resulted in downregulation of IGF2 and an increase in the expression of H19. This epigenetic change resulted in a decrease in RMS proliferation due to downregulation of IGF2 and, IGF1R expression in an miR‑675‑dependent manner. Interestingly, we observed that miR‑675 not only inhibited the expression of IGF1R in a similar manner in human and murine cells, but we also observed its negative effect on the expression of the INSR. These results confirm the crucial role of LOI at the IGF2‑H19 DMR in the pathogenesis of RMS and are relevant to the development of new treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Tarnowski
- Department of Physiology Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Marta Tkacz
- Department of Physiology Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Michał Czerewaty
- Department of Physiology Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Katarzyna Grymuła
- Department of Physiology Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Mariusz Z Ratajczak
- Stem Cell Biology Program at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
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19
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Leddon JL, Chen CY, Currier MA, Wang PY, Jung FA, Denton NL, Cripe KM, Haworth KB, Arnold MA, Gross AC, Eubank TD, Goins WF, Glorioso JC, Cohen JB, Grandi P, Hildeman DA, Cripe TP. Oncolytic HSV virotherapy in murine sarcomas differentially triggers an antitumor T-cell response in the absence of virus permissivity. MOLECULAR THERAPY-ONCOLYTICS 2015; 1:14010. [PMID: 27119100 PMCID: PMC4782947 DOI: 10.1038/mto.2014.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Multiple studies have indicated that in addition to direct oncolysis, virotherapy promotes an antitumor cytotoxic T cell response important for efficacy. To study this phenomenon further, we tested three syngeneic murine sarcoma models that displayed varied degrees of permissiveness to oncolytic herpes simplex virus replication and cytotoxicity in vitro, with the most permissive being comparable to some human sarcoma tumor lines. The in vivo antitumor effect ranged from no or modest response to complete tumor regression and protection from tumor rechallenge. The in vitro permissiveness to viral oncolysis was not predictive of the in vivo antitumor effect, as all three tumors showed intact interferon signaling and minimal permissiveness to virus in vivo. Tumor shrinkage was T-cell mediated with a tumor-specific antigen response required for maximal antitumor activity. Further analysis of the innate and adaptive immune microenvironment revealed potential correlates of susceptibility and resistance, including favorable and unfavorable cytokine profiles, differential composition of intratumoral myeloid cells, and baseline differences in tumor cell immunogenicity and tumor-infiltrating T-cell subsets. It is likely that a more complete understanding of the interplay between the immunologic immune microenvironment and virus infection will be necessary to fully leverage the antitumor effects of this therapeutic platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Leddon
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Immunobiology Graduate Training Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Chun-Yu Chen
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Mark A Currier
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Pin-Yi Wang
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Francesca A Jung
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Nicholas L Denton
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kevin M Cripe
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kellie B Haworth
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA; Division of Hematology/Oncology/Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Michael A Arnold
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Amy C Gross
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Timothy D Eubank
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - William F Goins
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Joseph C Glorioso
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Justus B Cohen
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Paola Grandi
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - David A Hildeman
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati , Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Timothy P Cripe
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA; Division of Hematology/Oncology/Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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20
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Van Mater D, Añó L, Blum JM, Webster MT, Huang W, Williams N, Ma Y, Cardona DM, Fan CM, Kirsch DG. Acute tissue injury activates satellite cells and promotes sarcoma formation via the HGF/c-MET signaling pathway. Cancer Res 2014; 75:605-14. [PMID: 25503558 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-14-2527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Some patients with soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) report a history of injury at the site of their tumor. Although this phenomenon is widely reported, there are relatively few experimental systems that have directly assessed the role of injury in sarcoma formation. We recently described a mouse model of STS whereby p53 is deleted and oncogenic Kras is activated in muscle satellite cells via a Pax7(CreER) driver following intraperitoneal injection with tamoxifen. Here, we report that after systemic injection of tamoxifen, the vast majority of Pax7-expressing cells remain quiescent despite mutation of p53 and Kras. The fate of these muscle progenitors is dramatically altered by tissue injury, which leads to faster kinetics of sarcoma formation. In adult muscle, quiescent satellite cells will transition into an active state in response to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). We show that modulating satellite cell quiescence via intramuscular injection of HGF increases the penetrance of sarcoma formation at the site of injection, which is dependent on its cognate receptor c-MET. Unexpectedly, the tumor-promoting effect of tissue injury also requires c-Met. These results reveal a mechanism by which HGF/c-MET signaling promotes tumor formation after tissue injury in a mouse model of primary STS, and they may explain why some patients develop a STS at the site of injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Van Mater
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Leonor Añó
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jordan M Blum
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Micah T Webster
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - WeiQiao Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Nerissa Williams
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Yan Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Diana M Cardona
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Chen-Ming Fan
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - David G Kirsch
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina. Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina.
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21
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Saletta F, Wadham C, Ziegler DS, Marshall GM, Haber M, McCowage G, Norris MD, Byrne JA. Molecular profiling of childhood cancer: Biomarkers and novel therapies. BBA CLINICAL 2014; 1:59-77. [PMID: 26675306 PMCID: PMC4633945 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbacli.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2013] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Technological advances including high-throughput sequencing have identified numerous tumor-specific genetic changes in pediatric and adolescent cancers that can be exploited as targets for novel therapies. SCOPE OF REVIEW This review provides a detailed overview of recent advances in the application of target-specific therapies for childhood cancers, either as single agents or in combination with other therapies. The review summarizes preclinical evidence on which clinical trials are based, early phase clinical trial results, and the incorporation of predictive biomarkers into clinical practice, according to cancer type. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS There is growing evidence that molecularly targeted therapies can valuably add to the arsenal available for treating childhood cancers, particularly when used in combination with other therapies. Nonetheless the introduction of molecularly targeted agents into practice remains challenging, due to the use of unselected populations in some clinical trials, inadequate methods to evaluate efficacy, and the need for improved preclinical models to both evaluate dosing and safety of combination therapies. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE The increasing recognition of the heterogeneity of molecular causes of cancer favors the continued development of molecularly targeted agents, and their transfer to pediatric and adolescent populations.
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Key Words
- ALK, anaplastic lymphoma kinase
- ALL, acute lymphoblastic leukemia
- AML, acute myeloid leukemia
- ARMS, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma
- AT/RT, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor
- AURKA, aurora kinase A
- AURKB, aurora kinase B
- BET, bromodomain and extra terminal
- Biomarkers
- CAR, chimeric antigen receptor
- CML, chronic myeloid leukemia
- Childhood cancer
- DFMO, difluoromethylornithine
- DIPG, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma
- EGFR, epidermal growth factor receptor
- ERMS, embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma
- HDAC, histone deacetylases
- Hsp90, heat shock protein 90
- IGF-1R, insulin-like growth factor type 1 receptor
- IGF/IGFR, insulin-like growth factor/receptor
- Molecular diagnostics
- NSCLC, non-small cell lung cancer
- ODC1, ornithine decarboxylase 1
- PARP, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase
- PDGFRA/B, platelet derived growth factor alpha/beta
- PI3K, phosphatidylinositol 3′-kinase
- PLK1, polo-like kinase 1
- Ph +, Philadelphia chromosome-positive
- RMS, rhabdomyosarcoma
- SHH, sonic hedgehog
- SMO, smoothened
- SYK, spleen tyrosine kinase
- TOP1/TOP2, DNA topoisomerase 1/2
- TRAIL, TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand
- Targeted therapy
- VEGF/VEGFR, vascular endothelial growth factor/receptor
- mAb, monoclonal antibody
- mAbs, monoclonal antibodies
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Saletta
- Children's Cancer Research Unit, Kids Research Institute, Westmead 2145, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carol Wadham
- Children's Cancer Institute Australia, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW, Randwick 2031, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David S. Ziegler
- Children's Cancer Institute Australia, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW, Randwick 2031, New South Wales, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick 2031, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Glenn M. Marshall
- Children's Cancer Institute Australia, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW, Randwick 2031, New South Wales, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick 2031, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michelle Haber
- Children's Cancer Institute Australia, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW, Randwick 2031, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geoffrey McCowage
- The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead 2145, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Murray D. Norris
- Children's Cancer Institute Australia, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW, Randwick 2031, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jennifer A. Byrne
- Children's Cancer Research Unit, Kids Research Institute, Westmead 2145, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead 2145, New South Wales, Australia
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22
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Liu C, Li D, Jiang J, Hu J, Zhang W, Chen Y, Cui X, Qi Y, Zou H, Zhang W, Li F. Analysis of molecular cytogenetic alteration in rhabdomyosarcoma by array comparative genomic hybridization. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94924. [PMID: 24743780 PMCID: PMC3990535 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common pediatric soft tissue sarcoma with poor prognosis. The genetic etiology of RMS remains largely unclear underlying its development and progression. To reveal novel genes more precisely and new therapeutic targets associated with RMS, we used high-resolution array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) to explore tumor-associated copy number variations (CNVs) and genes in RMS. We confirmed several important genes by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR). We then performed bioinformatics-based functional enrichment analysis for genes located in the genomic regions with CNVs. In addition, we identified miRNAs located in the corresponding amplification and deletion regions and performed miRNA functional enrichment analysis. aCGH analyses revealed that all RMS showed specific gains and losses. The amplification regions were 12q13.12, 12q13.3, and 12q13.3–q14.1. The deletion regions were 1p21.1, 2q14.1, 5q13.2, 9p12, and 9q12. The recurrent regions with gains were 12q13.3, 12q13.3–q14.1, 12q14.1, and 17q25.1. The recurrent regions with losses were 9p12–p11.2, 10q11.21–q11.22, 14q32.33, 16p11.2, and 22q11.1. The mean mRNA level of GLI1 in RMS was 6.61-fold higher than that in controls (p = 0.0477) by QRT-PCR. Meanwhile, the mean mRNA level of GEFT in RMS samples was 3.92-fold higher than that in controls (p = 0.0354). Bioinformatic analysis showed that genes were enriched in functions such as immunoglobulin domain, induction of apoptosis, and defensin. Proto-oncogene functions were involved in alveolar RMS. miRNAs that located in the amplified regions in RMS tend to be enriched in oncogenic activity (miR-24 and miR-27a). In conclusion, this study identified a number of CNVs in RMS and functional analyses showed enrichment for genes and miRNAs located in these CNVs regions. These findings may potentially help the identification of novel biomarkers and/or drug targets implicated in diagnosis of and targeted therapy for RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxia Liu
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
- Department of Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Dongliang Li
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
- LU'AN People's Hospital. LU'AN Affiliated Hospital of ANHUI Medical University, LU'AN, Anhui, P. R. China
| | - Jinfang Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
| | - Jianming Hu
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
| | - Yunzhao Chen
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
| | - Xiaobin Cui
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
| | - Hong Zou
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
| | - WenJie Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, P. R. China
- Department of Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
- * E-mail:
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23
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Development of genetically flexible mouse models of sarcoma using RCAS-TVA mediated gene delivery. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94817. [PMID: 24733554 PMCID: PMC3986235 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are a heterogeneous group of mesenchymal malignancies and unfortunately there are limited functional genomics platforms to assess the molecular pathways contributing to sarcomagenesis. Thus, novel model systems are needed to validate which genes should be targeted for therapeutic intervention. We hypothesized that delivery of oncogenes into mouse skeletal muscle using a retroviral (RCAS-TVA) system would result in sarcomagenesis. We also sought to determine if the cell type transformed (mesenchymal progenitors vs. terminally differentiated tissues) would influence sarcoma biology. Cells transduced with RCAS vectors directing the expression of oncoproteins KrasG12D, c-Myc and/or Igf2 were injected into the hindlimbs of mice that expressed the retroviral TVA receptor in neural/mesenchymal progenitors, skeletal/cardiac muscle or ubiquitously (N-tva, AKE and BKE strains respectively). Disrupting the G1 checkpoint CDKN2 (p16/p19-/-) resulted in sarcoma in 30% of p16/p19-/- xN-tva mice with a median latency of 23 weeks (range 8-40 weeks). A similar incidence occurred in p16/p19-/- xBKE mice (32%), however, a shorter median latency (10.4 weeks) was observed. p16/p19-/- xAKE mice also developed sarcomas (24% incidence; median 9 weeks) yet 31% of mice also developed lung sarcomas. Gene-anchored PCR demonstrated retroviral DNA integration in 86% of N-tva, 93% of BKE and 88% of AKE tumors. KrasG12D was the most frequent oncogene isolated. Oncogene delivery by the RCAS-TVA system can generate sarcomas in mice with a defective cell cycle checkpoint. Sarcoma biology differed between the different RCAS models we created, likely due to the cell population being transformed. This genetically flexible system will be a valuable tool for sarcoma research.
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24
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A pan-inhibitor of DASH family enzymes induces immune-mediated regression of murine sarcoma and is a potent adjuvant to dendritic cell vaccination and adoptive T-cell therapy. J Immunother 2014; 36:400-11. [PMID: 23994886 DOI: 10.1097/cji.0b013e3182a80213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Multimodality therapy consisting of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation will fail in approximately 40% of patients with pediatric sarcomas and result in substantial long-term morbidity in those who are cured. Immunotherapeutic regimens for the treatment of solid tumors typically generate antigen-specific responses too weak to overcome considerable tumor burden and tumor suppressive mechanisms and are in need of adjuvant assistance. Previous work suggests that inhibitors of DASH (dipeptidyl peptidase IV activity and/or structural homologs) enzymes can mediate tumor regression by immune-mediated mechanisms. Herein, we demonstrate that the DASH inhibitor, ARI-4175, can induce regression and eradication of well-established solid tumors, both as a single agent and as an adjuvant to a dendritic cell (DC) vaccine and adoptive cell therapy (ACT) in mice implanted with the M3-9-M rhabdomyosarcoma cell line. Treatment with effective doses of ARI-4175 correlated with recruitment of myeloid (CD11b) cells, particularly myeloid DCs, to secondary lymphoid tissues and with reduced frequency of intratumoral monocytic (CD11bLy6-CLy6-G) myeloid-derived suppressor cells. In immunocompetent mice, combining ARI-4175 with a DC vaccine or ACT with tumor-primed T cells produced significant improvements in tumor responses against well-established M3-9-M tumors. In M3-9-M-bearing immunodeficient (Rag1) mice, ACT combined with ARI-4175 produced greater tumor responses and significantly improved survival compared with either treatment alone. These studies warrant the clinical investigation of ARI-4175 for treatment of sarcomas and other malignancies, particularly as an adjuvant to tumor vaccines and ACT.
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25
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Houghton PJ, Kurmasheva RT, Kolb EA, Wu J, Gorlick R, Maris JM, Smith MA. Initial testing (Stage 1) of TAK-701, a humanized hepatocyte growth factor binding antibody, by the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014; 61:380-2. [PMID: 24019233 PMCID: PMC3961752 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.24756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
TAK-701 is a humanized antibody that binds hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), thus suppressing c-Met transduced signaling and c-Met dependent proliferation and migration of tumor cells. Six childhood solid tumor xenografts were selected for evaluating TAK-701 based on immunochemical detection of HGF/c-Met autocrine signaling [i.e., pMet(Tyr1349) and HGF positive]. TAK-701 was tested using a dose of 30 mg/kg administered by the intraperitoneal (IP) route twice weekly for 4 weeks. TAK-701 did not induce significant differences in EFS distribution in treated tumors compared to control tumors. Objective responses were not observed in any of the tested solid tumor xenografts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jianrong Wu
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | | | - John M. Maris
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA
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26
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Faggi F, Mitola S, Sorci G, Riuzzi F, Donato R, Codenotti S, Poliani PL, Cominelli M, Vescovi R, Rossi S, Calza S, Colombi M, Penna F, Costelli P, Perini I, Sampaolesi M, Monti E, Fanzani A. Phosphocaveolin-1 enforces tumor growth and chemoresistance in rhabdomyosarcoma. PLoS One 2014; 9:e84618. [PMID: 24427291 PMCID: PMC3888403 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) can ambiguously behave as either tumor suppressor or oncogene depending on its phosphorylation state and the type of cancer. In this study we show that Cav-1 was phosphorylated on tyrosine 14 (pCav-1) by Src-kinase family members in various human cell lines and primary mouse cultures of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), the most frequent soft-tissue sarcoma affecting childhood. Cav-1 overexpression in the human embryonal RD or alveolar RH30 cells yielded increased pCav-1 levels and reinforced the phosphorylation state of either ERK or AKT kinase, respectively, in turn enhancing in vitro cell proliferation, migration, invasiveness and chemoresistance. In contrast, reducing the pCav-1 levels by administration of a Src-kinase inhibitor or through targeted Cav-1 silencing counteracted the malignant in vitro phenotype of RMS cells. Consistent with these results, xenotransplantation of Cav-1 overexpressing RD cells into nude mice resulted in substantial tumor growth in comparison to control cells. Taken together, these data point to pCav-1 as an important and therapeutically valuable target for overcoming the progression and multidrug resistance of RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiorella Faggi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Sorci
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), Italy
| | - Francesca Riuzzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), Italy
| | - Rosario Donato
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), Italy
| | - Silvia Codenotti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), Italy
| | - Pietro Luigi Poliani
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Manuela Cominelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Raffaella Vescovi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefania Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Calza
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marina Colombi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Fabio Penna
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Oncology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), Italy
| | - Paola Costelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Oncology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), Italy
| | - Ilaria Perini
- Stem Cell Research Institute, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maurilio Sampaolesi
- Stem Cell Research Institute, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
- Human Anatomy Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), Italy
| | - Eugenio Monti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Fanzani
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), Italy
- * E-mail:
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27
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Sokolowski E, Turina CB, Kikuchi K, Langenau DM, Keller C. Proof-of-concept rare cancers in drug development: the case for rhabdomyosarcoma. Oncogene 2013; 33:1877-89. [PMID: 23665679 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2013.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2013] [Revised: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Rare diseases typically affect fewer than 200,000 patients annually, yet because thousands of rare diseases exist, the cumulative impact is millions of patients worldwide. Every form of childhood cancer qualifies as a rare disease-including the childhood muscle cancer, rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). The next few years promise to be an exceptionally good era of opportunity for public-private collaboration for rare and childhood cancers. Not only do certain governmental regulation advantages exist, but these advantages are being made permanent with special incentives for pediatric orphan drug-product development. Coupled with a growing understanding of sarcoma tumor biology, synergy with pharmaceutical muscle disease drug-development programs, and emerging publically available preclinical and clinical tools, the outlook for academic-community-industry partnerships in RMS drug development looks promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Sokolowski
- Department of Student Affairs, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - C B Turina
- 1] Department of Student Affairs, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA [2] Pediatric Cancer Biology Program, Department of Pediatrics, Papé Family Pediatric Research Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - K Kikuchi
- Pediatric Cancer Biology Program, Department of Pediatrics, Papé Family Pediatric Research Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - D M Langenau
- 1] Division of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA [2] Harvard Medical School and Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - C Keller
- Pediatric Cancer Biology Program, Department of Pediatrics, Papé Family Pediatric Research Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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28
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Walsh MP, Duncan B, Larabee S, Krauss A, Davis JPE, Cui Y, Kim SY, Guimond M, Bachovchin W, Fry TJ. Val-boroPro accelerates T cell priming via modulation of dendritic cell trafficking resulting in complete regression of established murine tumors. PLoS One 2013; 8:e58860. [PMID: 23554941 PMCID: PMC3595211 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0058860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although tumors naturally prime adaptive immune responses, tolerance may limit the capacity to control progression and can compromise effectiveness of immune-based therapies for cancer. Post-proline cleaving enzymes (PPCE) modulate protein function through N-terminal dipeptide cleavage and inhibition of these enzymes has been shown to have anti-tumor activity. We investigated the mechanism by which Val-boroPro, a boronic dipeptide that inhibits post-proline cleaving enzymes, mediates tumor regression and tested whether this agent could serve as a novel immune adjuvant to dendritic cell vaccines in two different murine syngeneic murine tumors. In mice challenged with MB49, which expresses the HY antigen complex, T cell responses primed by the tumor with and without Val-boroPro were measured using interferon gamma ELISPOT. Antibody depletion and gene-deficient mice were used to establish the immune cell subsets required for tumor regression. We demonstrate that Val-boroPro mediates tumor eradication by accelerating the expansion of tumor-specific T cells. Interestingly, T cells primed by tumor during Val-boroPro treatment demonstrate increased capacity to reject tumors following adoptive transfer without further treatment of the recipient. Val-boroPro -mediated tumor regression requires dendritic cells and is associated with enhanced trafficking of dendritic cells to tumor draining lymph nodes. Finally, dendritic cell vaccination combined with Val-boroPro treatment results in complete regression of established tumors. Our findings demonstrate that Val-boroPro has antitumor activity and a novel mechanism of action that involves more robust DC trafficking with earlier priming of T cells. Finally, we show that Val-boroPro has potent adjuvant properties resulting in an effective therapeutic vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghaan P Walsh
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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29
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Marshall AD, Grosveld GC. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma - The molecular drivers of PAX3/7-FOXO1-induced tumorigenesis. Skelet Muscle 2012. [PMID: 23206814 PMCID: PMC3564712 DOI: 10.1186/2044-5040-2-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a soft tissue sarcoma arising from cells of a mesenchymal or skeletal muscle lineage. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) is more aggressive than the more common embryonal (ERMS) subtype. ARMS is more prone to metastasis and carries a poorer prognosis. In contrast to ERMS, the majority of ARMS tumors carry one of several characteristic chromosomal translocations, such as t(2;13)(q35;q14), which results in the expression of a PAX3-FOXO1 fusion transcription factor. In this review we discuss the genes that cooperate with PAX3-FOXO1, as well as the target genes of the fusion transcription factor that contribute to various aspects of ARMS tumorigenesis. The characterization of these pathways will lead to a better understanding of ARMS tumorigenesis and will allow the design of novel targeted therapies that will lead to better treatment for this aggressive pediatric tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy D Marshall
- Department of Genetics, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA.
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30
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Zanola A, Rossi S, Faggi F, Monti E, Fanzani A. Rhabdomyosarcomas: an overview on the experimental animal models. J Cell Mol Med 2012; 16:1377-91. [PMID: 22225829 PMCID: PMC3823208 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2011.01518.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) are aggressive childhood soft-tissue malignancies deriving from mesenchymal progenitors that are committed to muscle-specific lineages. Despite the histopathological signatures associated with three main histological variants, termed embryonal, alveolar and pleomorphic, a plethora of genetic and molecular changes are recognized in RMS. Over the years, exposure to carcinogens or ionizing radiations and gene-targeting approaches in vivo have greatly contributed to disclose some of the mechanisms underlying RMS onset. In this review, we describe the principal distinct features associated with RMS variants and focus on the current available experimental animal models to point out the molecular determinants cooperating with RMS development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Zanola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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31
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Hatley ME, Tang W, Garcia MR, Finkelstein D, Millay DP, Liu N, Graff J, Galindo RL, Olson EN. A mouse model of rhabdomyosarcoma originating from the adipocyte lineage. Cancer Cell 2012; 22:536-46. [PMID: 23079662 PMCID: PMC3479681 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2012.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Revised: 07/17/2012] [Accepted: 09/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is an aggressive skeletal muscle-lineage tumor composed of malignant myoblasts that fail to exit the cell cycle and are blocked from fusing into syncytial muscle. Rhabdomyosarcoma includes two histolopathologic subtypes: alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, driven by the fusion protein PAX3-FOXO1 or PAX7-FOXO1, and embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS), which is genetically heterogeneous. Here, we show that adipocyte-restricted activation of Sonic hedgehog signaling through expression of a constitutively active Smoothened allele in mice gives rise to aggressive skeletal muscle tumors that display the histologic and molecular characteristics of human ERMS with high penetrance. Our findings suggest that adipocyte progenitors can be a cell of origin for Sonic hedgehog-driven ERMS, showing that RMS can originate from nonskeletal muscle precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E. Hatley
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 28105, USA
| | - Wei Tang
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Matthew R. Garcia
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 28105, USA
| | - David Finkelstein
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 28105, USA
| | - Douglas P. Millay
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Jonathan Graff
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Rene L. Galindo
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Address correspondence to: Eric N. Olson, Phone: 214-648-1187, Fax: 214-648-1196, Or Rene L. Galindo, Phone: 214-648-4116, Fax: 214-648-4070,
| | - Eric N. Olson
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Address correspondence to: Eric N. Olson, Phone: 214-648-1187, Fax: 214-648-1196, Or Rene L. Galindo, Phone: 214-648-4116, Fax: 214-648-4070,
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32
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Tarnowski M, Schneider G, Amann G, Clark G, Houghton P, Barr FG, Kenner L, Ratajczak MZ, Kucia M. RasGRF1 regulates proliferation and metastatic behavior of human alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas. Int J Oncol 2012; 41:995-1004. [PMID: 22752028 PMCID: PMC3582851 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2012.1536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2012] [Accepted: 05/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The involvement of the Ras superfamily of GTPases in the pathogenesis of rhabdomysarcoma (RMS) is not well understood. While mutant H-Ras leads to embryonal RMS (ERMS) formation in experimental animals and in Costello syndrome patients, no data exists on the potential role of Ras GTPases in the pathogenesis of alveolar RMS (ARMS). To address this issue better, we focused on the role of the GTP exchange factor RasGRF1 in this process. We observed that, in comparison to normal skeletal muscle cells, RasGRF1 mRNA is upregulated in the majority of human ARMS cell lines and subsequently confirmed its high expression in patient samples. By employing confocal microscopy analysis, we observed RasGRF1 accumulation in cell filopodia, which suggests its involvement in ARMS cell migration. Furthermore, we observed that RasGRF1 becomes phosphorylated in ARMS after stimulation by several pro-metastatic factors, such as SDF-1 and HGF/SF, as well as after exposure to growth-promoting Igf-2 and insulin. More importantly, activation of RasGRF1 expression correlated with activation of p42/44 MAPK and AKT. When the expression of RasGRF1 was down-regulated in ARMS cells by an shRNA strategy, these RasGRF1-kd RMS cells did not respond to stimulation by SDF-1, HGF/SF, Igf-2 or insulin by phosphorylation of p42/44 MAPK and AKT and lost their chemotactic responsiveness; however, their adhesion was not affected. We also observed that RasGRF1-kd ARMS cells proliferated at a very low rate in vitro, and, more importantly, after inoculation into immunodeficient SCID/beige inbred mice they formed significantly smaller tumors. We conclude that RasGRF1 plays an important role in ARMS pathogenesis and is a new potential therapeutic target to inhibit ARMS growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Tarnowski
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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Rebouissou S, Hérault A, Letouzé E, Neuzillet Y, Laplanche A, Ofualuka K, Maillé P, Leroy K, Riou A, Lepage ML, Vordos D, de la Taille A, Denoux Y, Sibony M, Guyon F, Lebret T, Benhamou S, Allory Y, Radvanyi F. CDKN2A
homozygous deletion is associated with muscle invasion in FGFR3
-mutated urothelial bladder carcinoma. J Pathol 2012; 227:315-24. [DOI: 10.1002/path.4017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2011] [Revised: 02/20/2012] [Accepted: 02/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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O'Brien D, Jacob AG, Qualman SJ, Chandler DS. Advances in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma characterization and disease model development. Histol Histopathol 2012; 27:13-22. [PMID: 22127592 DOI: 10.14670/hh-27.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a form of soft tissue sarcoma, is one of the most common pediatric malignancies. A complex disease with at least three different subtypes, it is characterized by perturbations in a number of signaling pathways and genetic abnormalities. Extensive clinical studies have helped classify these tumors into high and low risk groups to facilitate different treatment regimens. Research into the etiology of the disease has helped uncover numerous potential therapeutic intervention points which can be tested on various animal models of RMS; both genetically modified models and tumor xenograft models. Taken together, there has been a marked increase in the survival rate of RMS patients but the highly invasive, metastatic forms of the disease continue to baffle researchers. This review aims to highlight and summarize some of the most important developments in characterization and in vivo model generation for RMS research, in the last few decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- D O'Brien
- The Center for Childhood Cancer, Columbus Children's Research Institute and the Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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35
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Abstract
Caveolins are scaffolding proteins that play a pivotal role in numerous processes, including caveolae biogenesis, vesicular transport, cholesterol homeostasis and regulation of signal transduction. There are three different isoforms (Cav-1, -2 and -3) that form homo- and hetero-aggregates at the plasma membrane and modulate the activity of a number of intracellular binding proteins. Cav-1 and Cav-3, in particular, are respectively expressed in the reserve elements (e.g. satellite cells) and in mature myofibres of skeletal muscle and their expression interplay characterizes the switch from muscle precursors to differentiated elements. Recent findings have shown that caveolins are also expressed in rhabdomyosarcoma, a group of heterogeneous childhood soft-tissue sarcomas in which the cancer cells seem to derive from progenitors that resemble myogenic cells. In this review, we will focus on the role of caveolins in rhabdomyosarcomas and on their potential use as markers of the degree of differentiation in these paediatric tumours. Given that the function of Cav-1 as tumour conditional gene in cancer has been well-established, we will also discuss the relationship between Cav-1 and the progression of rhabdomyosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Rossi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy Department of Pathology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Abstract
Uncontrolled cell survival, growth, angiogenesis and metastasis are essential hallmarks of cancer. Genetic and biochemical data have demonstrated that the growth and motility factor hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) and its receptor, the tyrosine kinase MET, have a causal role in all of these processes, thus providing a strong rationale for targeting these molecules in cancer. Parallel progress in understanding the structure and function of HGF/SF, MET and associated signalling components has led to the successful development of blocking antibodies and a large number of small-molecule MET kinase inhibitors. In this Review, we discuss these advances, as well as results from recent clinical studies that demonstrate that inhibiting MET signalling in several types of solid human tumours has major therapeutic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ermanno Gherardi
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QH, UK.
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Rehg JE, Ward JM. Morphological and Immunohistochemical Characterization of Sarcomatous Tumors in Wild-Type and Genetically Engineered Mice. Vet Pathol 2011; 49:206-17. [DOI: 10.1177/0300985811429813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Malignant soft tissue tumors are commonly observed in wild-type and gene-targeted mice. These tumors have different degrees of differentiation, cellularity, cellular atypia, nuclear pleomorphism, normal and abnormal mitosis, and giant tumor cells with enlarged polylobulated nuclei. They are often diagnosed as pleomorphic sarcoma, undifferentiated sarcoma, fibrosarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, sarcoma, or sarcoma, not otherwise specified. Pleomorphic sarcomas have no morphological differentiation toward a differentiated mesenchymal or other tumor type in hematoxylin and eosin–stained sections. With the use of immunohistochemistry, human and mouse, tumors associated with these broad nonspecific diagnoses can often be demonstrated to be of a specific cellular lineage. With mouse models being used to delineate the molecular mechanisms, pathogenesis, and cellular origin of human sarcomas, it will be necessary to correlate the morphological and cellular lineage and the molecular profiles of the pleomorphic tumors associated with these mouse models. The results presented here show that with the use of immunohistochemistry, the cellular lineage of many mouse tumors with pleomorphic features can be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. E. Rehg
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - J. M. Ward
- Global Vet Pathology, Montgomery Village, Maryland
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Huang E, Rubin BP, Keller C. The long road to immunotherapy for childhood rhabdomyosarcoma. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57:899-901. [PMID: 21744478 PMCID: PMC6250431 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.23136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Accepted: 03/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Huang
- Pediatric Cancer Biology Program, Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, USA.
| | - Brian P. Rubin
- Department of Anatomic Pathology and Molecular Genetics, Taussig Cancer Center and Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Charles Keller
- Pediatric Cancer Biology Program, Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
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Meadors JL, Cui Y, Chen QR, Song YK, Khan J, Merlino G, Tsokos M, Orentas RJ, Mackall CL. Murine rhabdomyosarcoma is immunogenic and responsive to T-cell-based immunotherapy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57:921-9. [PMID: 21462302 PMCID: PMC7401311 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.23048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2010] [Accepted: 01/03/2011] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapies targeting cellular immunity are currently approved for treatment of melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, and prostate cancer. Studies on the immunogenicity and immune responsiveness of pediatric tumors are limited, therefore, it remains unclear to what extent T-cell-based immunotherapy holds promise for pediatric solid tumors. PROCEDURE A new rhabdomyosarcoma cell line (M3-9-M) was derived from an embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) occurring in a C57BL/6 mouse transgenic for hepatocyte growth factor and heterozygous for mutated p53. Primary tumors and metastases derived from M3-9-M were studied for similarities to human ERMS, and for immunogenicity and immune responsiveness. RESULTS Primary and metastatic tumors develop after orthotopic injection of M3-9-M into immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice, which mirror human ERMS with regard to histology, gene expression, and metastatic behavior. Whole cell vaccination using irradiated M3-9-M cells or M3-9-M-pulsed dendritic cells (DC)-induced tumor-specific T-cell responses that prevent tumor growth following low-dose tumor injection, and slow tumor growth following higher doses. Administration of anti-CD25 moAbs to deplete CD4(+)CD25(+)FOXP3(+) regulatory T cells prior to tumor vaccination enhanced the potency of the ERMS tumor vaccine. Adoptive immunotherapy with M3-9-M primed T cells plus DC-based vaccination resulted in complete eradication of day 10 M3-9-M derived tumors. CONCLUSIONS M3-9-M derived murine ERMS is immunogenic and immunoresponsive; regulatory T cells contribute to immune evasion by murine rhabdomyosarcoma. Adoptive immunotherapy with DC vaccination can eradicate low tumor burdens. Future work will seek to identify the tumor-associated antigens that mediate protective and therapeutic immunity in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna L. Meadors
- Immunology Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Yonghzi Cui
- Immunology Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Qing-Rong Chen
- Oncogenomics Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Young K. Song
- Oncogenomics Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Javed Khan
- Oncogenomics Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Glenn Merlino
- Cancer Modeling Section, Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Maria Tsokos
- Laboratory of Pathology, Pediatric Tumor Biology and Ultrastructural Pathology Section, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Rimas J. Orentas
- Immunology Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Crystal L. Mackall
- Immunology Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland;,Correspondence to: Crystal L. Mackall, MD, 10-CRC 1W-3750, 10 Center Dr MSC 1104, Bethesda, MD 20892.
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40
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Tonelli R, McIntyre A, Camerin C, Walters ZS, Di Leo K, Selfe J, Purgato S, Missiaglia E, Tortori A, Renshaw J, Astolfi A, Taylor KR, Serravalle S, Bishop R, Nanni C, Valentijn LJ, Faccini A, Leuschner I, Formica S, Reis-Filho JS, Ambrosini V, Thway K, Franzoni M, Summersgill B, Marchelli R, Hrelia P, Cantelli-Forti G, Fanti S, Corradini R, Pession A, Shipley J. Antitumor activity of sustained N-myc reduction in rhabdomyosarcomas and transcriptional block by antigene therapy. Clin Cancer Res 2011; 18:796-807. [PMID: 22065083 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-11-1981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Rhabdomyosarcomas are a major cause of cancer death in children, described with MYCN amplification and, in the alveolar subtype, transcription driven by the PAX3-FOXO1 fusion protein. Our aim was to determine the prevalence of N-Myc protein expression and the potential therapeutic effects of reducing expression in rhabdomyosarcomas, including use of an antigene strategy that inhibits transcription. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Protein expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. MYCN expression was reduced in representative cell lines by RNA interference and an antigene peptide nucleic acid (PNA) oligonucleotide conjugated to a nuclear localization signal peptide. Associated gene expression changes, cell viability, and apoptosis were analyzed in vitro. As a paradigm for antigene therapy, the effects of systemic treatment of mice with rhabdomyosarcoma cell line xenografts were determined. RESULTS High N-Myc levels were significantly associated with genomic amplification, presence of the PAX3/7-FOXO1 fusion genes, and proliferative capacity. Sustained reduction of N-Myc levels in all rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines that express the protein decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. Positive feedback was shown to regulate PAX3-FOXO1 and N-Myc levels in the alveolar subtype that critically decrease PAX3-FOXO1 levels on reducing N-Myc. Pharmacologic systemic administration of the antigene PNA can eliminate alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma xenografts in mice, without relapse or toxicity. CONCLUSION N-Myc, with its restricted expression in non-fetal tissues, is a therapeutic target to treat rhabdomyosarcomas, and blocking gene transcription using antigene oligonucleotide strategies has therapeutic potential in the treatment of cancer and other diseases that has not been previously realized in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Tonelli
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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Camboni M, Hammond S, Martin LT, Martin PT. Induction of a regenerative microenvironment in skeletal muscle is sufficient to induce embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma in p53-deficient mice. J Pathol 2011; 226:40-9. [PMID: 21915858 DOI: 10.1002/path.2996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2011] [Revised: 08/29/2011] [Accepted: 09/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
We have previously reported that mice with muscular dystrophy, including mdx mice, develop embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (eRMS) with a low incidence after 1 year of age and that almost all such tumours contain cancer-associated p53 mutations. To further demonstrate the relevance of p53 inactivation, we created p53-deficient mdx mice. Here we demonstrate that loss of one or both p53 (Trp53) alleles accelerates eRMS incidence in the mdx background, such that almost all Trp53(-/-) mdx animals develop eRMS by 5 months of age. To ascertain whether increased tumour incidence was due to the regenerative microenvironment found in dystrophic skeletal muscles, we induced muscle regeneration in Trp53(+/+) and Trp53(-/-) animals using cardiotoxin (Ctx). Wild-type (Trp53(+/+) ) animals treated with Ctx, either once every 7 days or once every 14 days from 1 month of age onwards, developed no eRMS; however, all similarly Ctx-treated Trp53(-/-) animals developed eRMS by 5 months of age at the site of injection. Most of these tumours displayed markers of human eRMS, including over-expression of Igf2 and phosphorylated Akt. These data demonstrate that the presence of a regenerative microenvironment in skeletal muscle, coupled with Trp53 deficiency, is sufficient to robustly induce eRMS in young mice. These studies further suggest that consideration should be given to the potential of the muscle microenvironment to support tumourigenesis in regenerative therapies for myopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marybeth Camboni
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
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Rengaswamy V, Kontny U, Rössler J. New approaches for pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma drug discovery: targeting combinatorial signaling. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2011; 6:1103-25. [PMID: 22646865 DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2011.611498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) are rare heterogeneous pediatric tumors that are treated by surgery, chemotherapy and irradiation. New therapeutic approaches are needed, especially in the advanced stages to target the pro-oncogenic signals. Exploring the molecular interactions of the regulatory signals and their roles in the developmental aspects of different subtypes of RMS is essential to identify potential targets and develop new therapeutic drugs. AREAS COVERED Insights into different drug discovery approaches are discussed with specific emphasis on gene expression profiling, fusion protein, role of small interfering RNA (siRNA)- and microRNA (miRNA)-based discovery approaches, targeting cancer stem cells, and in vitro and in vivo model systems. Targeting some overexpressed signals along with the possibilities of combination therapy of validated drug targets is discussed. Additionally, methods to overcome the limitations of discovery-based research are briefly discussed. EXPERT OPINION Due to drug resistance, ineffective therapy in advanced stages and relapse, there is a demand to explore new drug targets and discovery approaches. Implementing miRNA-based profiling would reveal the extent of miR-based regulation, various biomarkers and potential targets in RMS. A suitable combination of innovative techniques and the use of model systems might assist the identification and validation of novel targets and drug discovery methods. Combining specific drugs along with type-specific target inhibition of overexpressed mRNAs through siRNA approaches would enable the development of personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatesh Rengaswamy
- University Hospital Freiburg, Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Clinic IV: Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Mathildenstr. 1, 79106 Freiburg , Germany +49 761 270 43000 ; +49 761 270 45180 ;
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Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcomas (RSCs) are skeletal muscle neoplasms found in humans and domestic mammals. The A/J inbred strain developed a high frequency (between 70–80%) of adult pleomorphic type (APT) RSC at >20 months of age while BALB/cByJ also develop RSC but less frequently. These neoplasms invaded skeletal muscle surrounding either the axial or proximal appendicular skeleton and were characterized by pleomorphic cells with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm, multiple nuclei, and cross striations. The diagnosis was confirmed by detection of alpha-sarcomeric actin and myogenin in the neoplastic cells using immunocytochemistry. The A/J strain, but not the related BALB/c substrains, is also characterised by a progressive muscular dystrophy homologous to limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2B. The association between the development of RSC in similar muscle groups to those most severely affected by the progressive muscular dystrophy suggested that these neoplasms developed from abnormal regeneration of the skeletal muscle exacerbated by the dysferlin mutation. Transcriptome analyses of RSCs revealed marked downregulation of genes in muscular development and function signaling networks. Non-synonymous coding SNPs were found in Myl1, Abra, Sgca, Ttn, and Kcnj12 suggesting these may be important in the pathogenesis of RSC. These studies suggest that A strains of mice can be useful models for dissecting the molecular genetic basis for development, progression, and ultimately for testing novel anticancer therapeutic agents dealing with rhabdomyosarcoma.
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Lee MH, Jothi M, Gudkov AV, Mal AK. Histone methyltransferase KMT1A restrains entry of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cells into a myogenic differentiated state. Cancer Res 2011; 71:3921-31. [PMID: 21493592 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-3358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) is an aggressive pediatric muscle cancer, which arrested during the process of skeletal muscle differentiation. In muscle myoblast cells, ectopic expression of the histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methytransferase KMT1A blocks differentiation by repressing a myogenic gene expression program. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that activation of a KMT1A-mediated program of transcriptional repression prevents ARMS cells from differentiating. We investigated whether KMT1A represses the expression of differentiation-associated genes in ARMS cells, thereby blocking muscle differentiation. Our results show that expression of KMT1A is induced in human ARMS cancer cell lines when cultured under differentiation-permissible conditions. shRNA-mediated knockdown of KMT1A decreased anchorage dependent and independent cell proliferation and tumor xenograft growth, increased expression of differentiation-associated genes, and promoted the appearance of a terminally differentiated-like phenotype. Finally, shRNA-directed KMT1A knockdown restored the impaired transcriptional activity of the myogenic regulator MyoD. Together, our results suggested that high levels of KMT1A in ARMS cells under differentiation conditions impairs MyoD function, thereby arresting myogenic differentiation in these tumor cells. Thus, targeting KMT1A may be a novel strategy for the treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Hyung Lee
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
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45
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Receptor tyrosine kinases as therapeutic targets in rhabdomyosarcoma. Sarcoma 2011; 2011:756982. [PMID: 21253475 PMCID: PMC3022188 DOI: 10.1155/2011/756982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMSs) are the most common soft tissue sarcomas of childhood and adolescence. To date, there are no effective treatments that target the genetic abnormalities in RMS, and current treatment options for high-risk groups are not adequate. Over the past two decades, research into the molecular mechanisms of RMS has identified key genes and signaling pathways involved in disease pathogenesis. In these studies, members of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family of cell surface receptors have been characterized as druggable targets for RMS. Through small molecule inhibitors, ligand-neutralizing agents, and monoclonal receptor-blocking antibodies, RTK activity can be manipulated to block oncogenic properties associated with RMS. Herein, we review the members of the RTK family that are implicated in RMS tumorigenesis and discuss both the problems and promise of targeting RTKs in RMS.
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Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), an aggressive malignant neoplasm that shows features of skeletal muscle, is the most common soft tissue tumor of childhood. In children, the major subtypes are embryonal and alveolar. Although localized disease responds to a multimodal treatment, the prognosis for patients with high-risk features and metastasis remains dismal. Several in vivo models of RMS have been developed in mouse, human xenografts, zebrafish, and Drosophila to better understand the underlying mechanisms governing malignancy. The findings so far have indicated the potential role of skeletal muscle precursor cells in malignant transformation. To better understand histogenesis and different aspects of tumorigenesis in RMS, we have previously developed a robust zebrafish model of kRAS-induced RMS, which shares morphologic and immunophenotypic features with the human counterpart. Cross-species mircroarray comparisons confirm that conserved genetic pathways drive RMS growth. The ease for ex vivo manipulation allows the development of different transgenic and co-injection strategies to induce tumor formation in zebrafish. In contrast to other vertebrate model systems, the tumor onset in zebrafish is short, allowing for efficient study of different tumor processes including tumor growth, self-renewal, and maintenance.
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47
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Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) are very heterogeneous tumors that can be divided into three major groups: alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, and pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma. Concerted efforts over the past a decade have led to an understanding of the genetic underpinnings of many human tumors through genetically engineered models; however, left largely behind in this effort have been rare tumors with poorly understood chromosomal abnormalities including the vast majority of RMS lacking a pathognomonic translocation, i.e. fusion-negative RMS. In this chapter, we review the characteristic genetic abnormalities associated with human RMS and the genetically engineered animal models for these fusion-negative RMS. We explore not only how specific combinations of mutations and cell of origin give rise to different histologically and biologically distinguishable pediatric and adult RMS subtypes, but we also examine how tumor cell phenotype (and tumor "stem" cell phenotype) can vary markedly from the cell of origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Kikuchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Pape' Family Pediatric Research Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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48
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Saab R, Spunt SL, Skapek SX. Myogenesis and rhabdomyosarcoma the Jekyll and Hyde of skeletal muscle. Curr Top Dev Biol 2011; 94:197-234. [PMID: 21295688 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-380916-2.00007-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma, a neoplasm composed of skeletal myoblast-like cells, represents the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children. The application of intensive chemotherapeutics and refined surgical and radiation therapy approaches have improved survival for children with localized disease over the past 3 decades; however, these approaches have not improved the dismal outcome for children with metastatic and recurrent rhabdomyosarcoma. Elegant studies have defined the molecular mechanisms driving skeletal muscle lineage commitment and differentiation, and the machinery that couples differentiation with irreversible cell proliferation arrest. Further, detailed molecular analyses indicate that rhabdomyosarcoma cells have lost the capacity to fully differentiate when challenged to do so in experimental models. We review the intersection of normal skeletal muscle developmental biology and the molecular genetic defects in rhabdomyosarcoma with the underlying premise that understanding how the differentiation process has gone awry will lead to new treatment strategies aimed at promoting myogenic differentiation and concomitant cell cycle arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raya Saab
- Children's Cancer Center of Lebanon, Department of Pediatrics, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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49
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Tarnowski M, Grymula K, Liu R, Tarnowska J, Drukala J, Ratajczak J, Mitchell RA, Ratajczak MZ, Kucia M. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor is secreted by rhabdomyosarcoma cells, modulates tumor metastasis by binding to CXCR4 and CXCR7 receptors and inhibits recruitment of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Mol Cancer Res 2010; 85:472-83. [PMID: 20861157 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0609.2010.01531.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The overexpression of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been observed in many tumors and is implicated in oncogenic transformation and tumor progression. MIF activates CXCR2 and CD74 receptors and, as recently reported, may also bind to the stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1)-binding receptor CXCR4. Here, we report that human rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cell lines secrete MIF and that this chemokine (a) induces phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) p42/44 and AKT, (b) stimulates RMS cell adhesion, (c) enhances tumor vascularization, but surprisingly (d) decreases recruitment of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). Because RMS cells used in our studies do not express CXCR2 and CD74 receptors, the biological effects of MIF on RMS cells depend on its interaction with CXCR4, and as we report here for the first time, MIF may also engage another SDF-1-binding receptor (CXCR7) as well. Interestingly, downregulation of MIF in RMS cells inoculated into immunodeficient mice led to formation of larger tumors that displayed higher stromal cell support. Based on these observations, we postulate that MIF is an important autocrine/paracrine factor that stimulates both CXCR4 and CXCR7 receptors to enhance the adhesiveness of RMS cells. We also envision that when locally secreted by a growing tumor, MIF prevents responsiveness of RMS to chemoattractants secreted outside the growing tumor (e.g., SDF-1) and thereby prevents release of cells into the circulation. On the other hand, despite its obvious proangiopoietic effects, MIF inhibits in CXCR2/CD74-dependent manner recruitment of CAFs to the growing tumor. Our data indicate that therapeutic inhibition of MIF in RMS may accelerate metastasis and tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Tarnowski
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
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Tarnowski M, Grymula K, Liu R, Tarnowska J, Drukala J, Ratajczak J, Mitchell RA, Ratajczak MZ, Kucia M. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor is secreted by rhabdomyosarcoma cells, modulates tumor metastasis by binding to CXCR4 and CXCR7 receptors and inhibits recruitment of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Mol Cancer Res 2010; 8:1328-43. [PMID: 20861157 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-10-0288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The overexpression of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been observed in many tumors and is implicated in oncogenic transformation and tumor progression. MIF activates CXCR2 and CD74 receptors and, as recently reported, may also bind to the stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1)-binding receptor CXCR4. Here, we report that human rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cell lines secrete MIF and that this chemokine (a) induces phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) p42/44 and AKT, (b) stimulates RMS cell adhesion, (c) enhances tumor vascularization, but surprisingly (d) decreases recruitment of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). Because RMS cells used in our studies do not express CXCR2 and CD74 receptors, the biological effects of MIF on RMS cells depend on its interaction with CXCR4, and as we report here for the first time, MIF may also engage another SDF-1-binding receptor (CXCR7) as well. Interestingly, downregulation of MIF in RMS cells inoculated into immunodeficient mice led to formation of larger tumors that displayed higher stromal cell support. Based on these observations, we postulate that MIF is an important autocrine/paracrine factor that stimulates both CXCR4 and CXCR7 receptors to enhance the adhesiveness of RMS cells. We also envision that when locally secreted by a growing tumor, MIF prevents responsiveness of RMS to chemoattractants secreted outside the growing tumor (e.g., SDF-1) and thereby prevents release of cells into the circulation. On the other hand, despite its obvious proangiopoietic effects, MIF inhibits in CXCR2/CD74-dependent manner recruitment of CAFs to the growing tumor. Our data indicate that therapeutic inhibition of MIF in RMS may accelerate metastasis and tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Tarnowski
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
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