1
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Gupta A, Avadhanula S, Bashyam MD. Evaluation of the gene fusion landscape in early onset sporadic rectal cancer reveals association with chromatin architecture and genome stability. Oncogene 2024:10.1038/s41388-024-03088-z. [PMID: 38937601 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03088-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Gene fusions represent a distinct class of structural variants identified frequently in cancer genomes across cancer types. Several gene fusions exhibit gain of oncogenic function and thus have been the focus of development of efficient targeted therapies. However, investigation of fusion landscape in early-onset sporadic rectal cancer, a poorly studied colorectal cancer subtype prevalent in developing countries, has not been performed. Here, we present a comprehensive landscape of gene fusions in EOSRC and CRC using patient derived tumor samples and data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, respectively. Gene Ontology analysis revealed enrichment of unique biological process terms associated with 5'- and 3'- fusion partner genes. Extensive network analysis highlighted genes exhibiting significant promiscuity in fusion formation and their association with chromosome fragile sites. Investigation of fusion formation in the context of global chromatin architecture unraveled a novel mode of gene activation that arose from fusion between genes located in orthogonal chromatin compartments. The study provides novel evidence linking fusions to genome stability and architecture and unearthed a hitherto unidentified mode of gene activation in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita Gupta
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Hyderabad, India
| | - Sumedha Avadhanula
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Hyderabad, India
| | - Murali Dharan Bashyam
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Hyderabad, India.
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2
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Chen C, Wang J, Kang M, Wu P, Zhu L, Fang Y, Xue Y. Identification of a novel MEF2C::SS18L1 fusion in childhood acute B-lymphoblastic leukemia. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:314. [PMID: 38907739 PMCID: PMC11193691 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05846-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Leukemia-associated fusion genes are closely related to the occurrence, development, diagnosis, and treatment of leukemia. DNA microarrays and second-generation sequencing have discovered multiple B-ALL fusion genes. We identified a novel MEF2C::SS18L1 fusion gene in a child diagnosed with B-ALL. This study investigates the oncogenicity and prognosis of this fusion gene in B-ALL. METHODS A child with B-ALL who has a MEF2C::SS18L1 fusion is reported as a newly discovered case. Compared the breakpoints, structural domains, clinical phenotypes, and differential expression genes of MEF2C::SS18L1 and MEF2D::SS18.Using "ONCOFUSE" software, the carcinogenicity of MEF2C::SS18L1 is predicted. Using whole transcriptome sequencing, we analyze the breakpoints and the secondary structure of the fusion protein. Further, we compared the structures, differentially expressed genes, and clinical phenotypes of MEF2D and MEF2C fusion genes by DESeq, GO functional enrichment, and flow cytometry immunophenotyping analysis. RESULTS Whole transcriptome sequencing identified a MEF2C::SS18L1 fusion transcript in a 3-year-old child with B-ALL. The MADS box, MEF structural domain, HJURP_C structural domain, and TAD I structural domain of MEF2C, and the QPGY structural domain of SS18L1, make up the fusion protein. "Oncofuse" found a 0.99 Bayesian probability that the fusion gene drives cancer. The breakpoint positions, fusion protein secondary structures, differentially expressed genes, and clinical characteristics of this patient were identical to those with MEF2D::SS18 fusion gene. CONCLUSION We identified a novel MEF2C::SS18L1 fusion gene in childhood ALL, which shares similar structural and clinical characteristics with MEF2D::SS18. Further studies with more samples should be conducted in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuqin Chen
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Hematology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiali Wang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Hematology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meiyun Kang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Hematology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peng Wu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Hematology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liwen Zhu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Hematology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yongjun Fang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu Province, China.
- Key Laboratory of Hematology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yao Xue
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu Province, China.
- Key Laboratory of Hematology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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3
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Mohammad T, Zolotovskaia MA, Suntsova MV, Buzdin AA. Cancer fusion transcripts with human non-coding RNAs. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1415801. [PMID: 38919532 PMCID: PMC11196610 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1415801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer chimeric, or fusion, transcripts are thought to most frequently appear due to chromosomal aberrations that combine moieties of unrelated normal genes. When being expressed, this results in chimeric RNAs having upstream and downstream parts relatively to the breakpoint position for the 5'- and 3'-fusion components, respectively. As many other types of cancer mutations, fusion genes can be of either driver or passenger type. The driver fusions may have pivotal roles in malignisation by regulating survival, growth, and proliferation of tumor cells, whereas the passenger fusions most likely have no specific function in cancer. The majority of research on fusion gene formation events is concentrated on identifying fusion proteins through chimeric transcripts. However, contemporary studies evidence that fusion events involving non-coding RNA (ncRNA) genes may also have strong oncogenic potential. In this review we highlight most frequent classes of ncRNAs fusions and summarize current understanding of their functional roles. In many cases, cancer ncRNA fusion can result in altered concentration of the non-coding RNA itself, or it can promote protein expression from the protein-coding fusion moiety. Differential splicing, in turn, can enrich the repertoire of cancer chimeric transcripts, e.g. as observed for the fusions of circular RNAs and long non-coding RNAs. These and other ncRNA fusions are being increasingly recognized as cancer biomarkers and even potential therapeutic targets. Finally, we discuss the use of ncRNA fusion genes in the context of cancer detection and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tharaa Mohammad
- Laboratory for Translational and Genomic Bioinformatics, Moscow Center for Advanced Studies, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Molecular Genetic Technologies, Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Endocrinology Research Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marianna A. Zolotovskaia
- Laboratory for Translational and Genomic Bioinformatics, Moscow Center for Advanced Studies, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Molecular Genetic Technologies, Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Endocrinology Research Center, Moscow, Russia
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Anton A. Buzdin
- Laboratory for Translational and Genomic Bioinformatics, Moscow Center for Advanced Studies, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Molecular Genetic Technologies, Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Endocrinology Research Center, Moscow, Russia
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
- PathoBiology Group, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), Brussels, Belgium
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
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4
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Shelton WJ, Zandpazandi S, Nix JS, Gokden M, Bauer M, Ryan KR, Wardell CP, Vaske OM, Rodriguez A. Long-read sequencing for brain tumors. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1395985. [PMID: 38915364 PMCID: PMC11194609 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1395985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors and genomics have a long-standing history given that glioblastoma was the first cancer studied by the cancer genome atlas. The numerous and continuous advances through the decades in sequencing technologies have aided in the advanced molecular characterization of brain tumors for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Since the implementation of molecular biomarkers by the WHO CNS in 2016, the genomics of brain tumors has been integrated into diagnostic criteria. Long-read sequencing, also known as third generation sequencing, is an emerging technique that allows for the sequencing of longer DNA segments leading to improved detection of structural variants and epigenetics. These capabilities are opening a way for better characterization of brain tumors. Here, we present a comprehensive summary of the state of the art of third-generation sequencing in the application for brain tumor diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. We discuss the advantages and potential new implementations of long-read sequencing into clinical paradigms for neuro-oncology patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J. Shelton
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Sara Zandpazandi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - J Stephen Nix
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Murat Gokden
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Michael Bauer
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Katie Rose Ryan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Christopher P. Wardell
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Olena Morozova Vaske
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
| | - Analiz Rodriguez
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
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5
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Xie B, Sanford EJ, Hung SH, Wagner M, Heyer WD, Smolka MB. Multi-step control of homologous recombination via Mec1/ATR suppresses chromosomal rearrangements. EMBO J 2024:10.1038/s44318-024-00139-9. [PMID: 38839993 DOI: 10.1038/s44318-024-00139-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The Mec1/ATR kinase is crucial for genome stability, yet the mechanism by which it prevents gross chromosomal rearrangements (GCRs) remains unknown. Here we find that in cells with deficient Mec1 signaling, GCRs accumulate due to the deregulation of multiple steps in homologous recombination (HR). Mec1 primarily suppresses GCRs through its role in activating the canonical checkpoint kinase Rad53, which ensures the proper control of DNA end resection. Upon loss of Rad53 signaling and resection control, Mec1 becomes hyperactivated and triggers a salvage pathway in which the Sgs1 helicase is recruited to sites of DNA lesions via the 911-Dpb11 scaffolds and phosphorylated by Mec1 to favor heteroduplex rejection and limit HR-driven GCR accumulation. Fusing an ssDNA recognition domain to Sgs1 bypasses the requirement of Mec1 signaling for GCR suppression and nearly eliminates D-loop formation, thus preventing non-allelic recombination events. We propose that Mec1 regulates multiple steps of HR to prevent GCRs while ensuring balanced HR usage when needed for promoting tolerance to replication stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bokun Xie
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Ethan James Sanford
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Shih-Hsun Hung
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Mateusz Wagner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Wolf-Dietrich Heyer
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Marcus B Smolka
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
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6
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Dashi G, Varjosalo M. Oncofusions - shaping cancer care. Oncologist 2024:oyae126. [PMID: 38833619 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyae126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer manifests through a spectrum of mutations, including gene fusions termed oncofusions. These structural alterations influence tumorigenesis across various cancer types. Oncofusions arise primarily from genomic rearrangements and operate through deregulation or hybrid gene formation mechanisms. Notable examples such as BCR::ABL and EWS::FLI1 underscore their clinical significance. Several case studies exemplify the role of identifying and targeting oncofusions in guiding treatment decisions and improving patient outcomes. However, challenges persist in discerning drivers from passenger mutations and addressing acquired resistance. Despite advancements, the complexity of oncofusions warrants further exploration of their full potential as therapeutic targets, requiring a multidisciplinary approach integrating genomics, functional studies, and innovative drug discovery strategies to achieve precision in medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Dashi
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markku Varjosalo
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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7
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Kucinski JP, Calderon D, Kendall GC. Biological and therapeutic insights from animal modeling of fusion-driven pediatric soft tissue sarcomas. Dis Model Mech 2024; 17:dmm050704. [PMID: 38916046 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Survival for children with cancer has primarily improved over the past decades due to refinements in surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Although these general therapies are sometimes curative, the cancer often recurs, resulting in poor outcomes for patients. Fusion-driven pediatric soft tissue sarcomas are genetically defined by chromosomal translocations that create a chimeric oncogene. This distinctive, almost 'monogenic', genetic feature supports the generation of animal models to study the respective diseases in vivo. This Review focuses on a subset of fusion-driven pediatric soft tissue sarcomas that have transgenic animal tumor models, which includes fusion-positive and infantile rhabdomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, undifferentiated small round cell sarcoma, alveolar soft part sarcoma and clear cell sarcoma. Studies using the animal models of these sarcomas have highlighted that pediatric cancers require a specific cellular state or developmental stage to drive tumorigenesis, as the fusion oncogenes cause different outcomes depending on their lineage and timing of expression. Therefore, understanding these context-specific activities could identify targetable activities and mechanisms critical for tumorigenesis. Broadly, these cancers show dependencies on chromatin regulators to support oncogenic gene expression and co-opting of developmental pathways. Comparative analyses across lineages and tumor models will further provide biological and therapeutic insights to improve outcomes for these children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack P Kucinski
- Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology PhD Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Delia Calderon
- Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology PhD Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Genevieve C Kendall
- Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology PhD Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
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8
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Murakami K, Tago SI, Takishita S, Morikawa H, Kojima R, Yokoyama K, Ogawa M, Fukushima H, Takamori H, Nannya Y, Imoto S, Fuji M. Pathogenicity Prediction of Gene Fusion in Structural Variations: A Knowledge Graph-Infused Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) Framework. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1915. [PMID: 38791993 PMCID: PMC11120556 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
When analyzing cancer sample genomes in clinical practice, many structural variants (SVs), other than single nucleotide variants (SNVs), have been identified. To identify driver variants, the leading candidates must be narrowed down. When fusion genes are involved, selection is particularly difficult, and highly accurate predictions from AI is important. Furthermore, we also wanted to determine how the prediction can make more reliable diagnoses. Here, we developed an explainable AI (XAI) suitable for SVs with gene fusions, based on the XAI technology we previously developed for the prediction of SNV pathogenicity. To cope with gene fusion variants, we added new data to the previous knowledge graph for SVs and we improved the algorithm. Its prediction accuracy was as high as that of existing tools. Moreover, our XAI could explain the reasons for these predictions. We used some variant examples to demonstrate that the reasons are plausible in terms of pathogenic basic mechanisms. These results can be seen as a hopeful step toward the future of genomic medicine, where efficient and correct decisions can be made with the support of AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuhiko Murakami
- Computing Laboratories, Fujitsu Research, Fujitsu Ltd., Kawasaki 211-8588, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Shin-ichiro Tago
- Computing Laboratories, Fujitsu Research, Fujitsu Ltd., Kawasaki 211-8588, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Sho Takishita
- Computing Laboratories, Fujitsu Research, Fujitsu Ltd., Kawasaki 211-8588, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Morikawa
- Computing Laboratories, Fujitsu Research, Fujitsu Ltd., Kawasaki 211-8588, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Rikuhiro Kojima
- Computing Laboratories, Fujitsu Research, Fujitsu Ltd., Kawasaki 211-8588, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Yokoyama
- Division of Hematopoietic Disease Control, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Miho Ogawa
- Division of Hematopoietic Disease Control, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
- The University of Tokyo Hospital, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Hidehito Fukushima
- Division of Hematopoietic Disease Control, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Takamori
- Division of Hematopoietic Disease Control, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Nannya
- Division of Hematopoietic Disease Control, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Seiya Imoto
- Division of Health Medical Intelligence, Human Genome Center, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Masaru Fuji
- Computing Laboratories, Fujitsu Research, Fujitsu Ltd., Kawasaki 211-8588, Kanagawa, Japan
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Segovia D, Tepes PS. p160 nuclear receptor coactivator family members and their role in rare fusion‑driven neoplasms (Review). Oncol Lett 2024; 27:210. [PMID: 38572059 PMCID: PMC10988192 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene fusions with translocations involving nuclear receptor coactivators (NCoAs) are relatively common among fusion-driven malignancies. NCoAs are essential mediators of environmental cues and can modulate the transcription of downstream target genes upon binding to activated nuclear receptors. Therefore, fusion proteins containing NCoAs can become strong oncogenic drivers, affecting the cell transcriptional profile. These tumors show a strong dependency on the fusion oncogene; therefore, the direct pharmacological targeting of the fusion protein becomes an attractive strategy for therapy. Currently, different combinations of chemotherapy regimens are used to treat a variety of NCoA-fusion-driven tumors, but given the frequent tumor reoccurrence, more efficient treatment strategies are needed. Specific approaches directed towards inhibition or silencing of the fusion gene need to be developed while minimizing the interference with the original genes. This review highlights the relevant literature describing the normal function and structure of NCoAs and their oncogenic activity in NCoA-gene fusion-driven cancers, and explores potential strategies that could be effective in targeting these fusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Segovia
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
- Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Polona Safaric Tepes
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
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10
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Schlieben LD, Carta MG, Moskalev EA, Stöhr R, Metzler M, Besendörfer M, Meidenbauer N, Semrau S, Janka R, Grützmann R, Wiemann S, Hartmann A, Agaimy A, Haller F, Ferrazzi F. Machine Learning-Supported Diagnosis of Small Blue Round Cell Sarcomas Using Targeted RNA Sequencing. J Mol Diagn 2024; 26:387-398. [PMID: 38395409 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2024.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Small blue round cell sarcomas (SBRCSs) are a heterogeneous group of tumors with overlapping morphologic features but markedly varying prognosis. They are characterized by distinct chromosomal alterations, particularly rearrangements leading to gene fusions, whose detection currently represents the most reliable diagnostic marker. Ewing sarcomas are the most common SBRCSs, defined by gene fusions involving EWSR1 and transcription factors of the ETS family, and the most frequent non-EWSR1-rearranged SBRCSs harbor a CIC rearrangement. Unfortunately, currently the identification of CIC::DUX4 translocation events, the most common CIC rearrangement, is challenging. Here, we present a machine-learning approach to support SBRCS diagnosis that relies on gene expression profiles measured via targeted sequencing. The analyses on a curated cohort of 69 soft-tissue tumors showed markedly distinct expression patterns for SBRCS subgroups. A random forest classifier trained on Ewing sarcoma and CIC-rearranged cases predicted probabilities of being CIC-rearranged >0.9 for CIC-rearranged-like sarcomas and <0.6 for other SBRCSs. Testing on a retrospective cohort of 1335 routine diagnostic cases identified 15 candidate CIC-rearranged tumors with a probability >0.75, all of which were supported by expert histopathologic reassessment. Furthermore, the multigene random forest classifier appeared advantageous over using high ETV4 expression alone, previously proposed as a surrogate to identify CIC rearrangement. Taken together, the expression-based classifier can offer valuable support for SBRCS pathologic diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea D Schlieben
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Maria Giulia Carta
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Evgeny A Moskalev
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Robert Stöhr
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus Metzler
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Manuel Besendörfer
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Norbert Meidenbauer
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine 5-Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sabine Semrau
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rolf Janka
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Robert Grützmann
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefan Wiemann
- Division of Molecular Genome Analysis, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Abbas Agaimy
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Florian Haller
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Fulvia Ferrazzi
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Nephropathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
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11
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Sánchez-Marín D, Silva-Cázares MB, Porras-Reyes FI, García-Román R, Campos-Parra AD. Breaking paradigms: Long non-coding RNAs forming gene fusions with potential implications in cancer. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101136. [PMID: 38292185 PMCID: PMC10825296 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.101136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are non-coding RNAs longer than 200 nucleotides with dynamic regulatory functions. They interact with a wide range of molecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins to modulate diverse cellular functions through several mechanisms and, if deregulated, they can lead to cancer development and progression. Recently, it has been described that lncRNAs are susceptible to form gene fusions with mRNAs or other lncRNAs, breaking the paradigm of gene fusions consisting mainly of protein-coding genes. However, their biological significance in the tumor phenotype is still uncertain. Therefore, their recent identification opens a new line of research to study their biological role in tumorigenesis, and their potential as biomarkers with clinical relevance or as therapeutic targets. The present study aimed to review the lncRNA fusions identified so far and to know which of them have been associated with a potential function. We address the current challenges to deepen their study as well as the reasons why they represent a future therapeutic window in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Sánchez-Marín
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, C.P. 04360, México
| | - Macrina Beatriz Silva-Cázares
- Unidad Académica Multidisciplinaria Región Altiplano, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí (UASLP), Carretera a Cedral Km 5+600, Ejido San José de la Trojes, Matehuala, San Luis Potosí, C.P. 78760, México
| | - Fany Iris Porras-Reyes
- Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan), Niño Jesús, Tlalpan, Ciudad de México, C.P. 14080, México
| | - Rebeca García-Román
- Instituto de Salud Pública, Universidad Veracruzana (UV), Av. Dr Luis, Dr. Castelazo Ayala s/n, Col. Industrial Ánimas, Xalapa, Veracruz, C.P. 91190, México
| | - Alma D. Campos-Parra
- Instituto de Salud Pública, Universidad Veracruzana (UV), Av. Dr Luis, Dr. Castelazo Ayala s/n, Col. Industrial Ánimas, Xalapa, Veracruz, C.P. 91190, México
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12
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Fan C, Yang X, Yan L, Shi Z. Oxidative stress is two-sided in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e6806. [PMID: 38715546 PMCID: PMC11077289 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oxidative stress caused by elevated ROS, as a novel therapeutic mechanism, has been implicated in various tumors including AML. AML cells are chronically under oxidative stress, yet overreliance on ROS production makes tumor cells increasingly vulnerable to further damage. Reducing the cytotoxic effect of ROS on normal cells while killing leukemia stem cell (LSC) with high levels of reactive oxygen species is a new challenge for oxidative stress therapy in leukemia. METHODS By searching literature databases, we summarized recent relevant studies. The relationship of ROS on AML genes, signaling pathways, and transcription factors, and the correlation of ROS with AML bone marrow microenvironment and autophagy were summarized. In addition, we summarize the current status of research on ROS and AML therapeutics. Finally, we discuss the research progress on redox resistance in AML. RESULTS This review discusses the evidence showing the link between redox reactions and the progression of AML and compiles the latest research findings that will facilitate future biological studies of redox effects associated with AML treatment. CONCLUSION We believe that exploiting this unique oxidative stress property of AML cells may provide a new way to prevent relapse and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Fan
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
| | - Xiangdong Yang
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
| | - Lixiang Yan
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
| | - Zhexin Shi
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
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Xing P, Liu H, Xiao W, Zhang G, Zhang C, Liao Z, Li T, Yang J. The fusion gene LRP1-SNRNP25 drives invasion and migration by activating the pJNK/37LRP/MMP2 signaling pathway in osteosarcoma. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:198. [PMID: 38678020 PMCID: PMC11055890 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01962-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Through transcriptome sequencing, we previously identified a new osteosarcoma-specific, frequent fusion gene, LRP1-SNRNP25, and found that it played an important role in tumor cell invasion and migration. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. In this article, whole-genome sequencing further confirmed that the LRP1-SNRNP25 fusion gene is formed by fusion of LRP1 exon 8 and SNRNP25 exon 2. In vitro, scratch and Transwell assays demonstrated that the migration and invasion abilities of LRP1-SNRNP25-overexpressing osteosarcoma cells were significantly increased. To explore the molecular mechanism of the LRP1-SNRNP25 fusion in affecting osteosarcoma cell migration and invasion, we evaluated the migration and invasion-related molecular signaling pathways by western blotting. Some migration- and invasion-related genes, including pJNK and MMP2, were upregulated. Coimmunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry showed that 37LRP can interact with pJNK. Western blotting confirmed that LRP1-SNRNP25 overexpression upregulates 37LRP protein expression. Immunofluorescence staining showed the intracellular colocalization of LRP1-SNRNP25 with pJNK and 37LRP proteins and that LRP1-SNRNP25 expression increased the pJNK and 37LRP levels. Coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) confirmed that LRP1-SNRNP25 interacted with pJNK and 37LRP proteins. The pJNK inhibitor SP600125 dose-dependently decreased the pJNK/37LRP/MMP2 levels. After siRNA-mediated 37LRP knockdown, the MMP2 protein level decreased. These two experiments proved the upstream/downstream relationship among pJNK, 37LRP, and MMP2, with pJNK the farthest upstream and MMP2 the farthest downstream. These results proved that the LRP1-SNRNP25 fusion gene exerts biological effects through the pJNK/37LRP/MMP2 signaling pathway. In vivo, LRP1-SNRNP25 promoted osteosarcoma cell growth. Tumor growth was significantly inhibited after SP600125 treatment. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the pJNK, MMP2, and Ki-67 protein levels were significantly increased in tumor tissues of LRP1-SNRNP25-overexpressing cell-injected nude mice. Furthermore, lung and liver metastasis were more prevalent in these mice. In a word, LRP1-SNRNP25 promotes invasion, migration, and metastasis via pJNK/37LRP/MMP2 pathway. LRP1-SNRNP25 is a potential therapeutic target for LRP1-SNRNP25-positive osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Xing
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
- Radiation Oncology Department, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, PR China
| | - Haotian Liu
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
| | - Wanyi Xiao
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
| | - Gengpu Zhang
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
| | - Zhichao Liao
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China
| | - Jilong Yang
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, PR China.
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Emilius L, Bremm F, Binder AK, Schaft N, Dörrie J. Tumor Antigens beyond the Human Exome. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4673. [PMID: 38731892 PMCID: PMC11083240 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
With the advent of immunotherapeutics, a new era in the combat against cancer has begun. Particularly promising are neo-epitope-targeted therapies as the expression of neo-antigens is tumor-specific. In turn, this allows the selective targeting and killing of cancer cells whilst healthy cells remain largely unaffected. So far, many advances have been made in the development of treatment options which are tailored to the individual neo-epitope repertoire. The next big step is the achievement of efficacious "off-the-shelf" immunotherapies. For this, shared neo-epitopes propose an optimal target. Given the tremendous potential, a thorough understanding of the underlying mechanisms which lead to the formation of neo-antigens is of fundamental importance. Here, we review the various processes which result in the formation of neo-epitopes. Broadly, the origin of neo-epitopes can be categorized into three groups: canonical, noncanonical, and viral neo-epitopes. For the canonical neo-antigens that arise in direct consequence of somatic mutations, we summarize past and recent findings. Beyond that, our main focus is put on the discussion of noncanonical and viral neo-epitopes as we believe that targeting those provides an encouraging perspective to shape the future of cancer immunotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisabeth Emilius
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Franziska Bremm
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Amanda Katharina Binder
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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15
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Cosentini I, Condorelli DF, Locicero G, Ferro A, Pulvirenti A, Barresi V, Alaimo S. Measuring cancer driving force of chromosomal aberrations through multi-layer Boolean implication networks. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301591. [PMID: 38593144 PMCID: PMC11003681 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Multi-layer Complex networks are commonly used for modeling and analysing biological entities. This paper presents the advantage of using COMBO (Combining Multi Bio Omics) to suggest a new role of the chromosomal aberration as a cancer driver factor. Exploiting the heterogeneous multi-layer networks, COMBO integrates gene expression and DNA-methylation data in order to identify complex bilateral relationships between transcriptome and epigenome. We evaluated the multi-layer networks generated by COMBO on different TCGA cancer datasets (COAD, BLCA, BRCA, CESC, STAD) focusing on the effect of a specific chromosomal numerical aberration, broad gain in chromosome 20, on different cancer histotypes. In addition, the effect of chromosome 8q amplification was tested in the same TCGA cancer dataset. The results demonstrate the ability of COMBO to identify the chromosome 20 amplification cancer driver force in the different TCGA Pan Cancer project datasets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Cosentini
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniele Filippo Condorelli
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giorgio Locicero
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Alfredo Ferro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Bioinformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pulvirenti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Bioinformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenza Barresi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Alaimo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Bioinformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Mavridou E, Lema Fernandez AG, Nardelli C, Pierini V, Quintini M, Arniani S, Di Giacomo D, Crescenzi B, Matteucci C, Sambani C, Mecucci C. A novel t(X;21)(p11.4;q22.12) translocation adds to the role of BCOR and RUNX1 in myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemias. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2024; 63:e23235. [PMID: 38656651 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.23235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In myeloid neoplasms, both fusion genes and gene mutations are well-established events identifying clinicopathological entities. In this study, we present a thus far undescribed t(X;21)(p11.4;q22.12) in five cases with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The translocation was isolated or accompanied by additional changes. It did not generate any fusion gene or gene deregulation by aberrant juxtaposition with regulatory sequences. Molecular analysis by targeted next-generation sequencing showed that the translocation was accompanied by at least one somatic mutation in TET2, EZH2, RUNX1, ASXL1, SRSF2, ZRSR2, DNMT3A, and NRAS genes. Co-occurrence of deletion of RUNX1 in 21q22 and of BCOR in Xp11 was associated with t(X;21). BCOR haploinsufficiency corresponded to a significant hypo-expression in t(X;21) cases, compared to normal controls and to normal karyotype AML. By contrast, RUNX1 expression was not altered, suggesting a compensatory effect by the remaining allele. Whole transcriptome analysis showed that overexpression of HOXA9 differentiated t(X;21) from both controls and t(8;21)-positive AML. In conclusion, we characterized a new recurrent reciprocal t(X;21)(p11.4;q22.12) chromosome translocation in MDS and AML, generating simultaneous BCOR and RUNX1 deletions rather than a fusion gene at the genomic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Mavridou
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Anair Graciela Lema Fernandez
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Carlotta Nardelli
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Valentina Pierini
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Martina Quintini
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Silvia Arniani
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Danika Di Giacomo
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Barbara Crescenzi
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Caterina Matteucci
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Constantina Sambani
- Laboratory of Health Physics, Radiobiology & Cytogenetics, National Center for Scientific Research (NCSR) "Demokritos", Athens, Greece
| | - Cristina Mecucci
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Rai S, Singh MP, Sinha A, Srivastava A, Datta D, Srivastava S. Unravelling a novel CTNND1-RAB6A fusion transcript: Implications in colon cancer cell migration. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 262:129981. [PMID: 38336316 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The interchange of DNA sequences between genes may occur because of chromosomal rearrangements leading to the formation of chimeric genes. These chimeric genes have been linked to various cancers, accumulated significant interest in recent times. We used paired-end RNA-seq. data of four CRC and one normal sample generated from our previous study. The STAR-Fusion pipeline was utilized to identify the fusion genes unique to CRC. The in-silico identified fusion gene(s) were explored for their diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic biomarker potential using TCGA-datasets, then validated through PCR and DNA sequencing. Further, cell line-based studies were performed to gain functional insights of the novel fusion transcript CTNND1-RAB6A, which was amplified in one sample. Sequencing revealed that there was a total loss of the CTNND1 gene, whereas RAB6A retained its coding sequence. Further, RAB6A was functionally characterized for its oncogenic potential in HCT116 cell line. RAB6A under-expression was found to be significantly associated with increased cell migration and is proposed to be regulated via the RAB6A-ECR1-Liprin-α axis. We conclude that RAB6A gene may play significant role in CRC oncogenesis, and could be used as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in future for better management of a subset of CRCs harbouring this fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya Rai
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Teliyarganj-Prayagraj, U.P. 211004, India
| | - Manish Pratap Singh
- Department of Zoology, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, (U.P.) 273009, India
| | - Abhipsa Sinha
- Division of cancer biology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226031, India
| | - Ankit Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Teliyarganj-Prayagraj, U.P. 211004, India
| | - Dipak Datta
- Division of cancer biology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226031, India
| | - Sameer Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Teliyarganj-Prayagraj, U.P. 211004, India.
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Srivastava A, Rikhari D, Srivastava S. RSPO2 as Wnt signaling enabler: Important roles in cancer development and therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dis 2024; 11:788-806. [PMID: 37692504 PMCID: PMC10491879 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
R-spondins are secretory proteins localized in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi bodies and are processed through the secretory pathway. Among the R-spondin family, RSPO2 has emanated as a novel regulator of Wnt signaling, which has now been acknowledged in numerous in vitro and in vivo studies. Cancer is an abnormal growth of cells that proliferates and spreads uncontrollably due to the accumulation of genetic and epigenetic factors that constitutively activate Wnt signaling in various types of cancer. Colorectal cancer (CRC) begins when cells in the colon and rectum follow an indefinite pattern of division due to aberrant Wnt activation as one of the key hallmarks. Decades-long progress in research on R-spondins has demonstrated their oncogenic function in distinct cancer types, particularly CRC. As a critical regulator of the Wnt pathway, it modulates several phenotypes of cells, such as cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and cancer stem cell properties. Recently, RSPO mutations, gene rearrangements, fusions, copy number alterations, and altered gene expression have also been identified in a variety of cancers, including CRC. In this review, we addressed the recent updates regarding the recurrently altered R-spondins with special emphasis on the RSPO2 gene and its involvement in potentiating Wnt signaling in CRC. In addition to the compelling physiological and biological roles in cellular fate and regulation, we propose that RSPO2 would be valuable as a potential biomarker for prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic use in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh 211004, India
| | - Deeksha Rikhari
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh 211004, India
| | - Sameer Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh 211004, India
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Hasegawa N, Hayashi T, Niizuma H, Kikuta K, Imanishi J, Endo M, Ikeuchi H, Sasa K, Sano K, Hirabayashi K, Takagi T, Ishijima M, Kato S, Kohsaka S, Saito T, Suehara Y. Detection of Novel Tyrosine Kinase Fusion Genes as Potential Therapeutic Targets in Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas Using DNA/RNA-based Clinical Sequencing. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2024; 482:549-563. [PMID: 38014853 PMCID: PMC10871756 DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000002901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 1% of clinically treatable tyrosine kinase fusions, including anaplastic lymphoma kinase, neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase, RET proto-oncogene, and ROS proto-oncogene 1, have been identified in soft tissue sarcomas via comprehensive genome profiling based on DNA sequencing. Histologic tumor-specific fusion genes have been reported in approximately 20% of soft tissue sarcomas; however, unlike tyrosine kinase fusion genes, these fusions cannot be directly targeted in therapy. Approximately 80% of tumor-specific fusion-negative sarcomas, including myxofibrosarcoma and leiomyosarcoma, that are defined in complex karyotype sarcomas remain genetically uncharacterized; this mutually exclusive pattern of mutations suggests that other mutually exclusive driver oncogenes are yet to be discovered. Tumor-specific, fusion-negative sarcomas may be associated with unique translocations, and oncogenic fusion genes, including tyrosine kinase fusions, may have been overlooked in these sarcomas. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES (1) Can DNA- or RNA-based analysis reveal any characteristic gene alterations in bone and soft tissue sarcomas? (2) Can useful and potential tyrosine kinase fusions in tumors from tumor-specific, fusion-negative sarcomas be detected using an RNA-based screening system? (3) Do the identified potential fusion tumors, especially in neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase gene fusions in bone sarcoma, transform cells and respond to targeted drug treatment in in vitro assays? (4) Can the identified tyrosine kinase fusion genes in sarcomas be useful therapeutic targets? METHODS Between 2017 and 2020, we treated 100 patients for bone and soft tissue sarcomas at five institutions. Any biopsy or surgery from which a specimen could be obtained was included as potentially eligible. Ninety percent (90 patients) of patients were eligible; a further 8% (8 patients) were excluded because they were either lost to follow-up or their diagnosis was changed, leaving 82% (82 patients) for analysis here. To answer our first and second questions regarding gene alterations and potential tyrosine kinase fusions in eight bone and 74 soft tissue sarcomas, we used the TruSight Tumor 170 assay to detect mutations, copy number variations, and gene fusions in the samples. To answer our third question, we performed functional analyses involving in vitro assays to determine whether the identified tyrosine kinase fusions were associated with oncogenic abilities and drug responses. Finally, to determine usefulness as therapeutic targets, two pediatric patients harboring an NTRK fusion and an ALK fusion were treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors in clinical trials. RESULTS DNA/RNA-based analysis demonstrated characteristic alterations in bone and soft tissue sarcomas; DNA-based analyses detected TP53 and copy number alterations of MDM2 and CDK4 . These single-nucleotide variants and copy number variations were enriched in specific fusion-negative sarcomas. RNA-based screening detected fusion genes in 24% (20 of 82) of patients. Useful potential fusions were detected in 19% (11 of 58) of tumor-specific fusion-negative sarcomas, with nine of these patients harboring tyrosine kinase fusion genes; five of these patients had in-frame tyrosine kinase fusion genes ( STRN3-NTRK3, VWC2-EGFR, ICK-KDR, FOXP2-MET , and CEP290-MET ) with unknown pathologic significance. The functional analysis revealed that STRN3-NTRK3 rearrangement that was identified in bone had a strong transforming potential in 3T3 cells, and that STRN3-NTRK3 -positive cells were sensitive to larotrectinib in vitro. To confirm the usefulness of identified tyrosine kinase fusion genes as therapeutic targets, patients with well-characterized LMNA-NTRK1 and CLTC-ALK fusions were treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors in clinical trials, and a complete response was achieved. CONCLUSION We identified useful potential therapeutic targets for tyrosine kinase fusions in bone and soft tissue sarcomas using RNA-based analysis. We successfully identified STRN3-NTRK3 fusion in a patient with leiomyosarcoma of bone and determined the malignant potential of this fusion gene via functional analyses and drug effects. In light of these discoveries, comprehensive genome profiling should be considered even if the sarcoma is a bone sarcoma. There seem to be some limitations regarding current DNA-based comprehensive genome profiling tests, and it is important to use RNA testing for proper diagnosis and accurate identification of fusion genes. Studies on more patients, validation of results, and further functional analysis of unknown tyrosine kinase fusion genes are required to establish future treatments. CLINICAL RELEVANCE DNA- and RNA-based screening systems may be useful for detecting tyrosine kinase fusion genes in specific fusion-negative sarcomas and identifying key therapeutic targets, leading to possible breakthroughs in the treatment of bone and soft tissue sarcomas. Given that current DNA sequencing misses fusion genes, RNA-based screening systems should be widely considered as a worldwide test for sarcoma. If standard treatments such as chemotherapy are not effective, or even if the sarcoma is of bone, RNA sequencing should be considered to identify as many therapeutic targets as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuhiko Hasegawa
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuo Hayashi
- Department of Human Pathology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Niizuma
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kazutaka Kikuta
- Division of Musculoskeletal Oncology and Orthopaedic Surgery, Tochigi Cancer Center, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Jungo Imanishi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Orthopaedic Oncology and Surgery, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Makoto Endo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ikeuchi
- Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keita Sasa
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kei Sano
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaoru Hirabayashi
- Division of Diagnostic Pathology, Tochigi Cancer Center, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Takagi
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Muneaki Ishijima
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kato
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Kohsaka
- Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Saito
- Department of Human Pathology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Intractable Disease Research Center, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Suehara
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
- Intractable Disease Research Center, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Wang X, Hu S, Lu H. Pulmonary salivary gland tumor-hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma: a literature review. Diagn Pathol 2024; 19:37. [PMID: 38389101 PMCID: PMC10882834 DOI: 10.1186/s13000-024-01460-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary pulmonary hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma (HCCC) is a very rare lung tumor that accounts for less than 0.09% of all primary lung tumors and has no specific epidemiology. The correct diagnosis requires imaging, laboratory, pathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular examination. The most typical feature of pulmonary HCCC is the clear cell component with clear stroma. In addition, the fusion gene EWSR1::ATF1 due to t(12;22)(q13;q12) is essential for the pathological diagnosis of pulmonary HCCC. The main treatment for pulmonary HCCC is surgery. This review focus on the pathological features, immunohistochemical examination, mutation analysis and treatment of pulmonary HCCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyuan Wang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Diagnosis & Treatment Technology On Thoracic Oncology (Lung and Esophagus), Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Thoracic Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China
- Postgraduate Training Base Alliance of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Shumin Hu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Diagnosis & Treatment Technology On Thoracic Oncology (Lung and Esophagus), Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Thoracic Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyang Lu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Diagnosis & Treatment Technology On Thoracic Oncology (Lung and Esophagus), Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Thoracic Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China.
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China.
- Postgraduate Training Base Alliance of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People's Republic of China.
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Shi X, Facemire L, Singh S, Kumar S, Cornelison R, Liang C, Qin F, Liu A, Lin S, Tang Y, Elfman J, Manley T, Bullock T, Haverstick DM, Wu P, Li H. UBA1-CDK16 : A Sex-Specific Chimeric RNA and Its Role in Immune Sexual Dimorphism. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.13.580120. [PMID: 38405903 PMCID: PMC10888732 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.13.580120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
RNA processing mechanisms, such as alternative splicing and RNA editing, have been recognized as critical means to expand the transcriptome. Chimeric RNAs formed by intergenic splicing provide another potential layer of RNA diversification. By analyzing a large set of RNA-Seq data and validating results in over 1,200 blood samples, we identified UBA1-CDK16 , a female-specific chimeric transcript. Intriguingly, both parental genes, are expressed in males and females. Mechanistically, UBA1-CDK16 is produced by cis-splicing between the two adjacent X-linked genes, originating from the inactive X chromosome. A female-specific chromatin loop, formed between the junction sites, facilitates the alternative splicing of its readthrough precursor. This unique chimeric transcript exhibits evolutionary conservation, evolving to be female-specific from non-human primates to humans. Furthermore, our investigation reveals that UBA1-CDK16 is enriched in the myeloid lineage and plays a regulatory role in myeloid differentiation. Notably, female COVID-19 patients who tested negative for this chimeric transcript displayed higher counts of neutrophils, highlighting its potential role in disease pathogenesis. These findings support the notion that chimeric RNAs represent a new repertoire of transcripts that can be regulated independently from the parental genes, and a new class of RNA variance with potential implications in sexual dimorphism and immune responses.
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22
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Shim JW, Choi JY, Shim DM, Seo SW. Novel MFSD7-ATP5I fusion promotes migration and invasion of human sarcoma. J Orthop Res 2024; 42:443-452. [PMID: 37782287 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Fusion genes have been implicated in the development and progression of several types of sarcomas, serving as valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers, as well as potential therapeutic targets. We discovered a novel major facilitator superfamily domain-containing 7 (MFSD7) and adenosine triphosphate 5I (ATP5I) gene fusion from sarcomas. In this study, the MFSD7-ATP5I fusion transcript was screened using RNA sequencing in 55 sarcoma samples and sixteen normal samples. The MFSD7-ATP5I fusion transcript was detected in 58% of sarcoma samples. The correlation between the expression of MFSD7-ATP5I fusion transcript and clinicopathological information was analyzed, and MFSD7-ATP5I expression is associated with marked pleomorphism and lower tumor necrosis. Cell migration and invasion was significantly reduced by knock-down of MFSD7-ATP5I. Cell migration and invasion was increased by overexpression of MFSD7-ATP5I. A phosphokinase assay demonstrated that MFSD7-ATP5I is involved in the GSK-3 pathway. The current study found that MFSD7-ATP5I is associated with increasing pleomorphism and decreasing necrosis of tumors. And our gain and loss of function experiments prove that MFSD7-ATP5I promotes the invasiveness of tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Woo Shim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Yoon Choi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Da Mi Shim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Wook Seo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
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23
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Cui Z, Zhai Z, Xie D, Wang L, Cheng F, Lou S, Zou F, Pan R, Chang S, Yao H, She J, Zhang Y, Yang X. From genomic spectrum of NTRK genes to adverse effects of its inhibitors, a comprehensive genome-based and real-world pharmacovigilance analysis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1329409. [PMID: 38357305 PMCID: PMC10864613 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1329409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The discovery of neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) gene fusions has facilitated the development of precision oncology. Two first-generation NTRK inhibitors (larotrectinib and entrectinib) are currently approved for the treatment of patients with solid tumors harboring NTRK gene fusions. Nevertheless, comprehensive NTRK profiling at the pan-cancer genomic level and real-world studies pertaining to the adverse events of NTRK inhibitors are lacking. Methods: We characterize the genome of NTRK at the pan-cancer level through multi-omics databases such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Through the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database, we collect reports of entrectinib and larotrectinib-induced adverse events and perform a pharmacovigilance analysis using various disproportionality methods. Results: NTRK1/2/3 expression is lower in most tumor tissues, while they have higher methylation levels. NTRK gene expression has prognostic value in some cancer types, such as breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA). The cancer type with highest NTRK alteration frequency is skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) (31.98%). Thyroid carcinoma (THCA) has the largest number of NTRK fusion cases, and the most common fusion pair is ETV6-NTRK3. Adverse drug events (ADEs) obtained from the FAERS database for larotrectinib and entrectinib are 524 and 563, respectively. At the System Organ Class (SOC) level, both drugs have positive signal value for "nervous system disorder". Other positive signals for entrectinib include "cardiac disorders", "metabolism and nutrition disorders", while for larotrectinib, it is "hepatobiliary disorders". The unexpected signals are also listed in detail. ADEs of the two NTRK inhibitors mainly occur in the first month. The median onset time of ADEs for entrectinib and larotrectinib was 16 days (interquartile range [IQR] 6-86.5) and 44 days ([IQR] 7-136), respectively. Conclusion: Our analysis provides a broad molecular view of the NTRK family. The real-world adverse drug event analysis of entrectinib and larotrectinib contributes to more refined medication management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhen Zhai
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - De Xie
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Lihui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Feiyan Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Siyu Lou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Fan Zou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Rumeng Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shixue Chang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Haoyan Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jing She
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yidan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xinyuan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
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Zhuang G, Zhang X, Du W, Xu L, Ma J, Luo H, Tang H, Wang W, Wang P, Li M, Yang X, Wu D, Fang S. A benchmarking framework for the accurate and cost-effective detection of clinically-relevant structural variants for cancer target identification and diagnosis. J Transl Med 2024; 22:65. [PMID: 38229122 PMCID: PMC10792779 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04865-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accurate clinical structural variant (SV) calling is essential for cancer target identification and diagnosis but has been historically challenging due to the lack of ground truth for clinical specimens. Meanwhile, reduced clinical-testing cost is the key to the widespread clinical utility. METHODS We analyzed massive data from tumor samples of 476 patients and developed a computational framework for accurate and cost-effective detection of clinically-relevant SVs. In addition, standard materials and classical experiments including immunohistochemistry and/or fluorescence in situ hybridization were used to validate the developed computational framework. RESULTS We systematically evaluated the common algorithms for SV detection and established an expert-reviewed SV call set of 1,303 tumor-specific SVs with high-evidence levels. Moreover, we developed a random-forest-based decision model to improve the true positive of SVs. To independently validate the tailored 'two-step' strategy, we utilized standard materials and classical experiments. The accuracy of the model was over 90% (92-99.78%) for all types of data. CONCLUSION Our study provides a valuable resource and an actionable guide to improve cancer-specific SV detection accuracy and clinical applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiwu Zhuang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaotao Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Qingdao Central Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenjing Du
- Department of Radiotherapy, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Libin Xu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiyong Ma
- Department of Respiration, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haitao Luo
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and Therapy, YuceBio Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongzhen Tang
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and Therapy, YuceBio Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and Therapy, YuceBio Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and Therapy, YuceBio Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Miao Li
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and Therapy, YuceBio Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Xu Yang
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and Therapy, YuceBio Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Dongfang Wu
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and Therapy, YuceBio Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Shencun Fang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nanjing Chest Hospital, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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Kumar H, Luo R, Wen J, Yang C, Zhou X, Kim P. FusionNeoAntigen: a resource of fusion gene-specific neoantigens. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:D1276-D1288. [PMID: 37870454 PMCID: PMC10767944 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the diverse sources of neoantigens (i.e. single-nucleotide variants (SNVs), insertions or deletions (Indels) and fusion genes), fusion gene-derived neoantigens are generally more immunogenic, have multiple targets per mutation and are more widely distributed across various cancer types. Therefore, fusion gene-derived neoantigens are a potential source of highly immunogenic neoantigens and hold great promise for cancer immunotherapy. However, the lack of fusion protein sequence resources and knowledge prevents this application. We introduce 'FusionNeoAntigen', a dedicated resource for fusion-specific neoantigens, accessible at https://compbio.uth.edu/FusionNeoAntigen. In this resource, we provide fusion gene breakpoint crossing neoantigens focused on ∼43K fusion proteins of ∼16K in-frame fusion genes from FusionGDB2.0. FusionNeoAntigen provides fusion gene information, corresponding fusion protein sequences, fusion breakpoint peptide sequences, fusion gene-derived neoantigen prediction, virtual screening between fusion breakpoint peptides having potential fusion neoantigens and human leucocyte antigens (HLAs), fusion breakpoint RNA/protein sequences for developing vaccines, information on samples with fusion-specific neoantigen, potential CAR-T targetable cell-surface fusion proteins and literature curation. FusionNeoAntigen will help to develop fusion gene-based immunotherapies. We will report all potential fusion-specific neoantigens from all possible open reading frames of ∼120K human fusion genes in future versions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himansu Kumar
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ruihan Luo
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jianguo Wen
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Chengyuan Yang
- School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaobo Zhou
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Pora Kim
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Xiao Y, Cheng D, Luo K, Li M, Tan Y, Lin G, Hu L. Evaluation of genetic risk of apparently balanced chromosomal rearrangement carriers by breakpoint characterization. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:147-159. [PMID: 37993578 PMCID: PMC10789712 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02986-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report genetic characteristics and associated risk of chromosomal breaks due to chromosomal rearrangements in large samples. METHODS MicroSeq, a technique that combines chromosome microdissection and next-generation sequencing, was used to identify chromosomal breakpoints. Long-range PCR and Sanger sequencing were used to precisely characterize 100 breakpoints in 50 ABCR carriers. RESULTS In addition to the recurrent regions of balanced rearrangement breaks in 8q24.13, 11q11.23, and 22q11.21 that had been documented, we have discovered a 10-Mb region of 12q24.13-q24.3 that could potentially be a sparse region of balanced rearrangement breaks. We found that 898 breakpoints caused gene disruption and a total of 188 breakpoints interrupted genes recorded in OMIM. The percentage of breakpoints that disrupted autosomal dominant genes recorded in OMIM was 25.53% (48/188). Fifty-four of the precisely characterized breakpoints had 1-8-bp microhomologous sequences. CONCLUSION Our findings provide a reference for the evaluation of the pathogenicity of mutations in related genes that cause protein truncation in clinical practice. According to the characteristics of breakpoints, non-homologous end joining and microhomology-mediated break-induced replication may be the main mechanism for ABCRs formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqin Xiao
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Dehua Cheng
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, China
| | - Keli Luo
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, China
| | - Mengge Li
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, China
- Hunan Guangxiu Hospital, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, China
| | - Yueqiu Tan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, China
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, China
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Development and Carcinogenesis, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Liang Hu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, China.
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, China.
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Development and Carcinogenesis, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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Shao J, Li S, Qiu X, Jiang J, Zhang L, Wang P, Si Y, Wu Y, He M, Xiong Q, Zhao L, Li Y, Fan Y, Viviani M, Fu Y, Wu C, Gao T, Zhu L, Fussenegger M, Wang H, Xie M. Engineered poly(A)-surrogates for translational regulation and therapeutic biocomputation in mammalian cells. Cell Res 2024; 34:31-46. [PMID: 38172533 PMCID: PMC10770082 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-023-00896-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Here, we present a gene regulation strategy enabling programmable control over eukaryotic translational initiation. By excising the natural poly-adenylation (poly-A) signal of target genes and replacing it with a synthetic control region harboring RNA-binding protein (RBP)-specific aptamers, cap-dependent translation is rendered exclusively dependent on synthetic translation initiation factors (STIFs) containing different RBPs engineered to conditionally associate with different eIF4F-binding proteins (eIFBPs). This modular design framework facilitates the engineering of various gene switches and intracellular sensors responding to many user-defined trigger signals of interest, demonstrating tightly controlled, rapid and reversible regulation of transgene expression in mammalian cells as well as compatibility with various clinically applicable delivery routes of in vivo gene therapy. Therapeutic efficacy was demonstrated in two animal models. To exemplify disease treatments that require on-demand drug secretion, we show that a custom-designed gene switch triggered by the FDA-approved drug grazoprevir can effectively control insulin expression and restore glucose homeostasis in diabetic mice. For diseases that require instantaneous sense-and-response treatment programs, we create highly specific sensors for various subcellularly (mis)localized protein markers (such as cancer-related fusion proteins) and show that translation-based protein sensors can be used either alone or in combination with other cell-state classification strategies to create therapeutic biocomputers driving self-sufficient elimination of tumor cells in mice. This design strategy demonstrates unprecedented flexibility for translational regulation and could form the basis for a novel class of programmable gene therapies in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Shao
- International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Shichao Li
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinyuan Qiu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Science, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jian Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lihang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center of Biological Computation, Zhejiang Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pengli Wang
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yaqing Si
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minghui He
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiqi Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liuqi Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yilin Li
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuxuan Fan
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mirta Viviani
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaohua Wu
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ting Gao
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lingyun Zhu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Science, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, CH-4058, Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, CH-4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Hui Wang
- Research Center of Biological Computation, Zhejiang Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Mingqi Xie
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Kent MR, Silvius K, Kucinski J, Calderon D, Kendall GC. Functional Genomics of Novel Rhabdomyosarcoma Fusion-Oncogenes Using Zebrafish. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2707:23-41. [PMID: 37668903 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3401-1_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Clinical sequencing efforts continue to identify novel putative oncogenes with limited strategies to perform functional validation in vivo and study their role in tumorigenesis. Here, we present a pipeline for fusion-driven rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) in vivo modeling using transgenic zebrafish systems. This strategy originates with novel fusion-oncogenes identified from patient samples that require functional validation in vertebrate systems, integrating these genes into the zebrafish genome, and then characterizing that they indeed drive rhabdomyosarcoma tumor formation. In this scenario, the human form of the fusion-oncogene is inserted into the zebrafish genome to understand if it is an oncogene, and if so, the underlying mechanisms of tumorigenesis. This approach has been successful in our models of infantile rhabdomyosarcoma and alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, both driven by respective fusion-oncogenes, VGLL2-NCOA2 and PAX3-FOXO1. Our described zebrafish platform is a rapid method to understand the impact of fusion-oncogene activity, divergent and shared fusion-oncogene biology, and whether any analyzed pathways converge for potential clinically actionable targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Kent
- Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Katherine Silvius
- Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jack Kucinski
- Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Ph.D. Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Delia Calderon
- Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Ph.D. Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Genevieve C Kendall
- Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Fujii T, Nakano Y, Hagita D, Onishi N, Endo A, Nakagawa M, Yoshiura T, Otsuka Y, Takeuchi S, Suzuki M, Shimizu Y, Toyooka T, Matsushita Y, Hibiya Y, Tomura S, Kondo A, Wada K, Ichimura K, Tomiyama A. KLC1-ROS1 Fusion Exerts Oncogenic Properties of Glioma Cells via Specific Activation of JAK-STAT Pathway. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:9. [PMID: 38201436 PMCID: PMC10778328 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Here, we investigated the detailed molecular oncogenic mechanisms of a novel receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) fusion, KLC1-ROS1, with an adapter molecule, KLC1, and an RTK, ROS1, discovered in pediatric glioma, and we explored a novel therapeutic target for glioma that possesses oncogenic RTK fusion. When wild-type ROS1 and KLC1-ROS1 fusions were stably expressed in the human glioma cell lines A172 and U343MG, immunoblotting revealed that KLC1-ROS1 fusion specifically activated the JAK2-STAT3 pathway, a major RTK downstream signaling pathway, when compared with wild-type ROS1. Immunoprecipitation of the fractionated cell lysates revealed a more abundant association of the KLC1-ROS1 fusion with JAK2 than that observed for wild-type ROS1 in the cytosolic fraction. A mutagenesis study of the KLC1-ROS1 fusion protein demonstrated the fundamental roles of both the KLC1 and ROS1 domains in the constitutive activation of KLC1-ROS1 fusion. Additionally, in vitro assays demonstrated that KLC1-ROS1 fusion upregulated cell proliferation, invasion, and chemoresistance when compared to wild-type ROS1. Combination treatment with the chemotherapeutic agent temozolomide and an inhibitor of ROS1, JAK2, or a downstream target of STAT3, demonstrated antitumor effects against KLC1-ROS1 fusion-expressing glioma cells. Our results demonstrate that KLC1-ROS1 fusion exerts oncogenic activity through serum-independent constitutive activation, resulting in specific activation of the JAK-STAT pathway. Our data suggested that molecules other than RTKs may serve as novel therapeutic targets for RTK fusion in gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Fujii
- Department of Brain Disease Translational Research, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (T.F.); (D.H.); (Y.M.); (Y.H.); (K.I.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.S.); (Y.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Yoshiko Nakano
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan;
| | - Daichi Hagita
- Department of Brain Disease Translational Research, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (T.F.); (D.H.); (Y.M.); (Y.H.); (K.I.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.S.); (Y.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Nobuyuki Onishi
- Department of Clinical Diagnostic Oncology, Clinical Research Institute for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Showa University, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan;
| | - Arumu Endo
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
| | - Masaya Nakagawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
| | - Toru Yoshiura
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
| | - Yohei Otsuka
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
| | - Satoru Takeuchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
| | - Mario Suzuki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.S.); (Y.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Yuzaburo Shimizu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.S.); (Y.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Terushige Toyooka
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
| | - Yuko Matsushita
- Department of Brain Disease Translational Research, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (T.F.); (D.H.); (Y.M.); (Y.H.); (K.I.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.S.); (Y.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Yuko Hibiya
- Department of Brain Disease Translational Research, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (T.F.); (D.H.); (Y.M.); (Y.H.); (K.I.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.S.); (Y.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Satoshi Tomura
- Division of Traumatology, Research Institute, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan;
| | - Akihide Kondo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.S.); (Y.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Kojiro Wada
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
| | - Koichi Ichimura
- Department of Brain Disease Translational Research, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (T.F.); (D.H.); (Y.M.); (Y.H.); (K.I.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.S.); (Y.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Arata Tomiyama
- Department of Brain Disease Translational Research, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (T.F.); (D.H.); (Y.M.); (Y.H.); (K.I.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Saitama, Japan; (A.E.); (M.N.); (T.Y.); (Y.O.); (S.T.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.S.); (Y.S.); (A.K.)
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30
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Ladwig A, Gupta S, Ehlers P, Sekora A, Alammar M, Koczan D, Wolkenhauer O, Junghanss C, Langer P, Murua Escobar H. Exploring Thiazolopyridine AV25R: Unraveling of Biological Activities, Selective Anti-Cancer Properties and In Silico Target and Binding Prediction in Hematological Neoplasms. Molecules 2023; 28:8120. [PMID: 38138609 PMCID: PMC10745743 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28248120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Thiazolopyridines are a highly relevant class of small molecules, which have previously shown a wide range of biological activities. Besides their anti-tubercular, anti-microbial and anti-viral activities, they also show anti-cancerogenic properties, and play a role as inhibitors of cancer-related proteins. Herein, the biological effects of the thiazolopyridine AV25R, a novel small molecule with unknown biological effects, were characterized. Screening of a set of lymphoma (SUP-T1, SU-DHL-4) and B- acute leukemia cell lines (RS4;11, SEM) revealed highly selective effects of AV25R. The selective anti-proliferative and metabolism-modulating effects were observed in vitro for the B-ALL cell line RS4;11. Further, we were able to detect severe morphological changes and the induction of apoptosis. Gene expression analysis identified a large number of differentially expressed genes after AV25R exposure and significant differentially regulated cancer-related signaling pathways, such as VEGFA-VEGFR2 signaling and the EGF/EGFR pathway. Structure-based pharmacophore screening approaches using in silico modeling identified potential biological AV25R targets. Our results indicate that AV25R binds with several proteins known to regulate cell proliferation and tumor progression, such as FECH, MAP11, EGFR, TGFBR1 and MDM2. The molecular docking analyses indicates that AV25R has a higher binding affinity compared to many of the experimentally validated small molecule inhibitors of these targets. Thus, here we present in vitro and in silico analyses which characterize, for the first time, the molecular acting mechanism of AV25R, including cellular and molecular biologic effects. Additionally, this predicted the target binding of the molecule, revealing a high affinity to cancer-related proteins and, thus, classified AVR25 for targeted intervention approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Ladwig
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III—Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.L.); (A.S.); (M.A.); (C.J.)
| | - Shailendra Gupta
- Department of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (S.G.); (O.W.)
| | - Peter Ehlers
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (P.E.); (P.L.)
| | - Anett Sekora
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III—Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.L.); (A.S.); (M.A.); (C.J.)
| | - Moosheer Alammar
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III—Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.L.); (A.S.); (M.A.); (C.J.)
| | - Dirk Koczan
- Core Facility Genomics, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Olaf Wolkenhauer
- Department of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (S.G.); (O.W.)
| | - Christian Junghanss
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III—Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.L.); (A.S.); (M.A.); (C.J.)
| | - Peter Langer
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (P.E.); (P.L.)
| | - Hugo Murua Escobar
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III—Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.L.); (A.S.); (M.A.); (C.J.)
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31
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Day RB, Hickman JA, Xu Z, Katerndahl CD, Ferraro F, Ramakrishnan SM, Erdmann-Gilmore P, Sprung RW, Mi Y, Townsend RR, Miller CA, Ley TJ. Proteogenomic analysis reveals cytoplasmic sequestration of RUNX1 by the acute myeloid leukemia-initiating CBFB::MYH11 oncofusion protein. J Clin Invest 2023; 134:e176311. [PMID: 38061017 PMCID: PMC10866659 DOI: 10.1172/jci176311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Several canonical translocations produce oncofusion genes that can initiate acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Although each translocation is associated with unique features, the mechanisms responsible remain unclear. While proteins interacting with each oncofusion are known to be relevant for how they act, these interactions have not yet been systematically defined. To address this issue in an unbiased fashion, we fused a promiscuous biotin ligase (TurboID) in-frame with 3 favorable-risk AML oncofusion cDNAs (PML::RARA, RUNX1::RUNX1T1, and CBFB::MYH11) and identified their interacting proteins in primary murine hematopoietic cells. The PML::RARA- and RUNX1::RUNX1T1-TurboID fusion proteins labeled common and unique nuclear repressor complexes, implying their nuclear localization. However, CBFB::MYH11-TurboID-interacting proteins were largely cytoplasmic, probably because of an interaction of the MYH11 domain with several cytoplasmic myosin-related proteins. Using a variety of methods, we showed that the CBFB domain of CBFB::MYH11 sequesters RUNX1 in cytoplasmic aggregates; these findings were confirmed in primary human AML cells. Paradoxically, CBFB::MYH11 expression was associated with increased RUNX1/2 expression, suggesting the presence of a sensor for reduced functional RUNX1 protein, and a feedback loop that may attempt to compensate by increasing RUNX1/2 transcription. These findings may have broad implications for AML pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan B. Day
- Section of Stem Cell Biology, Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Julia A. Hickman
- Section of Stem Cell Biology, Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Ziheng Xu
- Section of Stem Cell Biology, Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Casey D.S. Katerndahl
- Section of Stem Cell Biology, Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Francesca Ferraro
- Section of Stem Cell Biology, Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | | | - Petra Erdmann-Gilmore
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Robert W. Sprung
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yiling Mi
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - R. Reid Townsend
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Christopher A. Miller
- Section of Stem Cell Biology, Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Timothy J. Ley
- Section of Stem Cell Biology, Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, and
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32
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Thway K, Fisher C. A Practical Approach to Small Round Cell Tumors Involving the Gastrointestinal Tract and Abdomen. Surg Pathol Clin 2023; 16:765-778. [PMID: 37863565 DOI: 10.1016/j.path.2023.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Small round cell neoplasms are diagnostically challenging owing to their clinical and pathologic overlap, necessitating use of large immunopanels and molecular analysis. Ewing sarcomas (ES) are the most common, but EWSR1 is translocated in several diverse neoplasms, some with round cell morphology. Molecular advances enable classification of many tumors previously termed 'atypical ES'. The current WHO Classification includes two new undifferentiated round cell sarcomas (with CIC or BCOR alterations), and a group of sarcomas in which EWSR1 partners with non-Ewing family transcription factor genes. This article reviews the spectrum of small round cell sarcomas within the gastrointestinal tract and abdomen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khin Thway
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, London SW3 6JJ, UK; Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London SW3 6JB, UK.
| | - Cyril Fisher
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London SW3 6JB, UK; Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2GW, UK
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Kumari N, Das K, Sharma S, Dahal S, Desai SS, Roy U, Sharma A, Manjunath M, Gopalakrishnan V, Retheesh ST, Javadekar SM, Choudhary B, Raghavan SC. Evaluation of potential role of R-loop and G-quadruplex DNA in the fragility of c-MYC during chromosomal translocation associated with Burkitt's lymphoma. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105431. [PMID: 37926284 PMCID: PMC10704377 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
t(8;14) translocation is the hallmark of Burkitt's lymphoma and results in c-MYC deregulation. During the translocation, c-MYC gene on chromosome 8 gets juxtaposed to the Ig switch regions on chromosome 14. Although the promoter of c-MYC has been investigated for its mechanism of fragility, little is known about other c-MYC breakpoint regions. We have analyzed the translocation break points at the exon 1/intron 1 of c-MYC locus from patients with Burkitt's lymphoma. Results showed that the breakpoint region, when present on a plasmid, could fold into an R-loop confirmation in a transcription-dependent manner. Sodium bisulfite modification assay revealed significant single-strandedness on chromosomal DNA of Burkitt's lymphoma cell line, Raji, and normal lymphocytes, revealing distinct R-loops covering up to 100 bp region. Besides, ChIP-DRIP analysis reveals that the R-loop antibody can bind to the breakpoint region. Further, we show the formation of stable parallel intramolecular G-quadruplex on non-template strand of the genome. Finally, incubation of purified AID in vitro or overexpression of AID within the cells led to enhanced mutation frequency at the c-MYC breakpoint region. Interestingly, anti-γH2AX can bind to DSBs generated at the c-MYC breakpoint region within the cells. The formation of R-loop and G-quadruplex was found to be mutually exclusive. Therefore, our results suggest that AID can bind to the single-stranded region of the R-loop and G4 DNA, leading to the deamination of cytosines to uracil and induction of DNA breaks in one of the DNA strands, leading to double-strand break, which could culminate in t(8;14) chromosomal translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitu Kumari
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Kohal Das
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Shivangi Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India; Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, India
| | - Sumedha Dahal
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | | | - Urbi Roy
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Anju Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Meghana Manjunath
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, India
| | - Vidya Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India; Department of Zoology, St Joseph's College, Irinjalakuda, Kerala, India
| | - S T Retheesh
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Saniya M Javadekar
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Bibha Choudhary
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, India
| | - Sathees C Raghavan
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India.
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Xie B, Sanford EJ, Hung SH, Wagner MM, Heyer WD, Smolka MB. Multi-Step Control of Homologous Recombination by Mec1/ATR Ensures Robust Suppression of Gross Chromosomal Rearrangements. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.21.568146. [PMID: 38045423 PMCID: PMC10690203 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.21.568146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The Mec1/ATR kinase is crucial for genome stability, yet the mechanism by which it prevents gross chromosomal rearrangements (GCRs) remains unknown. Here we find that in cells with deficient Mec1 signaling, GCRs accumulate due to the deregulation of multiple steps in homologous recombination (HR). Mec1 primarily suppresses GCRs through its role in activating the canonical checkpoint kinase Rad53, which ensures the proper control of DNA end resection. Upon loss of Rad53 signaling and resection control, Mec1 becomes hyperactivated and triggers a salvage pathway in which the Sgs1 helicase is recruited to sites of DNA lesions via the 911-Dpb11 scaffolds to favor heteroduplex rejection and limit HR-driven GCR accumulation. Fusing an ssDNA recognition domain to Sgs1 bypasses the requirement of Mec1 signaling for GCR suppression and nearly eliminates D-loop formation, thus preventing non-allelic recombination events. We propose that Mec1 regulates multiple steps of HR to prevent GCRs while ensuring balanced HR usage when needed for promoting tolerance to replication stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bokun Xie
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Ethan James Sanford
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Shih-Hsun Hung
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Mateusz Maciej Wagner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Wolf-Dietrich Heyer
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Marcus B. Smolka
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Arıkan C, Bora ES, Kanter E, Karaarslan FN. Have Chest Imaging Habits Changed in the Emergency Department after the Pandemic? Tomography 2023; 9:2079-2088. [PMID: 37987349 PMCID: PMC10661323 DOI: 10.3390/tomography9060163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The rate of patients undergoing tomography in the emergency department has increased in the last two decades. In the last few years, there has been a more significant increase due to the effects of the pandemic. This study aimed to determine the rate of patients who underwent chest imaging in the emergency department, the preferred imaging method, and the demographic characteristics of the patients undergoing imaging during the pre-pandemic and post-pandemic periods. This retrospective cross-sectional study included patients admitted to the emergency department between January 2019 and March 2023. The number of female, male, and total emergency admissions, the rate of patients who underwent chest X-ray (CXR) and chest computed tomography (CCT), and the age and gender distribution of the cases who underwent chest imaging were compared according to the pre-pandemic (January 2019-February 2020), pandemic (March 2020-March 2022), and post-pandemic (April 2022-March 2023) periods. Total emergency admissions were similar in the pre-pandemic and post-pandemic periods (pre-pandemic period: 21,984 ± 2087; post-pandemic period: 22,732 ± 1701). Compared to the pre-pandemic period, the CCT rate increased (pre-pandemic period: 4.9 ± 0.9, post-pandemic period: 7.46 ± 1.2), and the CXR rate decreased (pre-pandemic period: 16.6 ± 1.7%, post-pandemic period: 13.3 ± 1.9%) in the post-pandemic period (p < 0.001). The mean age of patients who underwent chest imaging (CXR; Pre-pandemic period: 56.6 ± 1.1 years; post-pandemic period: 53.3 ± 5.6 years. CCT; Pre-pandemic period: 68.5 ± 1.7 years; post-pandemic period: 61 ± 4.0 years) in the post-pandemic period was lower than in the pre-pandemic period (p < 0.001). Chest imaging preferences in the emergency department have changed during the post-pandemic period. In the post-pandemic period, while younger patients underwent chest imaging in the emergency department, CCT was preferred, and the rate of CXR decreased. It is alarming for public health that patients are exposed to higher doses of radiation at a younger age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cüneyt Arıkan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Soma State Hospital, Manisa 45500, Turkey;
| | - Ejder Saylav Bora
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Izmir Ataturk Training and Research Hospital, Izmir 35150, Turkey;
| | - Efe Kanter
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Izmir Kâtip Çelebi University, Izmir 35620, Turkey;
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Brenner C, Sanders C, Vokuhl C. [Receptor tyrosine kinase- fusions in paediatric spindle cell tumors]. PATHOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 44:357-365. [PMID: 37819532 DOI: 10.1007/s00292-023-01228-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric spindle cell tumors are rare and often difficult to diagnose due to a similar morphology and a non-specific immunohistochemical profile. Genetic characterization of these lesions has been constantly improving, which has led to the identification of new subgroups that were partly included in the WHO classification. Receptor tyrosine kinase fusions play a special role in these tumors and their verification has diagnostic relevance and can be an option for target-oriented therapies. In the case of pediatric spindle cell tumors, genetic fusions form especially with NTRK1‑3, ALK, RET, and ROS1. Overall, pediatric tumors with receptor tyrosine kinase fusions are predominantly low-grade tumors, which are often subdivided into the group of intermediate-malign tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Brenner
- Sektion Kinderpathologie, Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland.
| | - Christine Sanders
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Christian Vokuhl
- Sektion Kinderpathologie, Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland
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Chutani N, Ragula S, Syed K, Pakala SB. Novel Insights into the Role of Chromatin Remodeler MORC2 in Cancer. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1527. [PMID: 37892209 PMCID: PMC10605154 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A newly discovered chromatin remodeler, MORC2, is a Microrchidia (MORC) family member. MORC2 acts as a chromatin remodeler by binding to the DNA and changing chromatin conformation using its ATPase domain. MORC2 is highly expressed in a variety of human cancers. It controls diverse signaling pathways essential for cancer development through its target genes and interacting partners. MORC2 promotes cancer cells' growth, invasion, and migration by regulating the expression of genes involved in these processes. MORC2 is localized primarily in the nucleus and is also found in the cytoplasm. In the cytoplasm, MORC2 interacts with adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-citrate lyase (ACLY) to promote lipogenesis and cholesterogenesis in cancer. In the nucleus, MORC2 interacts with the transcription factor c-Myc to control the transcription of genes involved in glucose metabolism to drive cancer cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, MORC2 recruits on to the promoters of tumor suppressor genes to repress their transcription and expression to promote oncogenesis. In addition to its crucial function in oncogenesis, it plays a vital role in DNA repair. Overall, this review concisely summarizes the current knowledge about MORC2-regulated molecular pathways involved in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namita Chutani
- Biology Division, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Tirupati, Mangalam, Tirupati 517 507, India;
| | - Sandhya Ragula
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 500 046, India;
| | - Khajamohiddin Syed
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa;
| | - Suresh B. Pakala
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 500 046, India;
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa;
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Zhong X, Luan J, Yu A, Lee-Hassett A, Miao Y, Yang L. SFyNCS detects oncogenic fusions involving non-coding sequences in cancer. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:e96. [PMID: 37638762 PMCID: PMC10570049 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fusion genes are well-known cancer drivers. However, most known oncogenic fusions are protein-coding, and very few involve non-coding sequences due to lack of suitable detection tools. We develop SFyNCS to detect fusions of both protein-coding genes and non-coding sequences from transcriptomic sequencing data. The main advantage of this study is that we use somatic structural variations detected from genomic data to validate fusions detected from transcriptomic data. This allows us to comprehensively evaluate various fusion detection and filtering strategies and parameters. We show that SFyNCS has superior sensitivity and specificity over existing algorithms through extensive benchmarking in cancer cell lines and patient samples. We then apply SFyNCS to 9565 tumor samples across 33 tumor types in The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort and detect a total of 165,139 fusions. Among them, 72% of the fusions involve non-coding sequences. We find a long non-coding RNA to recurrently fuse with various oncogenes in 3% of prostate cancers. In addition, we discover fusions involving two non-coding RNAs in 32% of dedifferentiated liposarcomas and experimentally validated the oncogenic functions in mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Zhong
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jingyun Luan
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anqi Yu
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anna Lee-Hassett
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yuxuan Miao
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lixing Yang
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago IL, USA
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Oliveira DS, Fablet M, Larue A, Vallier A, Carareto CA, Rebollo R, Vieira C. ChimeraTE: a pipeline to detect chimeric transcripts derived from genes and transposable elements. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:9764-9784. [PMID: 37615575 PMCID: PMC10570057 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) produce structural variants and are considered an important source of genetic diversity. Notably, TE-gene fusion transcripts, i.e. chimeric transcripts, have been associated with adaptation in several species. However, the identification of these chimeras remains hindered due to the lack of detection tools at a transcriptome-wide scale, and to the reliance on a reference genome, even though different individuals/cells/strains have different TE insertions. Therefore, we developed ChimeraTE, a pipeline that uses paired-end RNA-seq reads to identify chimeric transcripts through two different modes. Mode 1 is the reference-guided approach that employs canonical genome alignment, and Mode 2 identifies chimeras derived from fixed or insertionally polymorphic TEs without any reference genome. We have validated both modes using RNA-seq data from four Drosophila melanogaster wild-type strains. We found ∼1.12% of all genes generating chimeric transcripts, most of them from TE-exonized sequences. Approximately ∼23% of all detected chimeras were absent from the reference genome, indicating that TEs belonging to chimeric transcripts may be recent, polymorphic insertions. ChimeraTE is the first pipeline able to automatically uncover chimeric transcripts without a reference genome, consisting of two running Modes that can be used as a tool to investigate the contribution of TEs to transcriptome plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Oliveira
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5558, Villeurbanne, Rhone-Alpes, 69100, France
| | - Marie Fablet
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5558, Villeurbanne, Rhone-Alpes, 69100, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, Île-de-FranceF-75231, France
| | - Anaïs Larue
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5558, Villeurbanne, Rhone-Alpes, 69100, France
- Univ Lyon, INRAE, INSA-Lyon, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Agnès Vallier
- Univ Lyon, INRAE, INSA-Lyon, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Claudia M A Carareto
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rita Rebollo
- Univ Lyon, INRAE, INSA-Lyon, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Cristina Vieira
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5558, Villeurbanne, Rhone-Alpes, 69100, France
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40
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Allou L, Mundlos S. Disruption of regulatory domains and novel transcripts as disease-causing mechanisms. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2300010. [PMID: 37381881 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Deletions, duplications, insertions, inversions, and translocations, collectively called structural variations (SVs), affect more base pairs of the genome than any other sequence variant. The recent technological advancements in genome sequencing have enabled the discovery of tens of thousands of SVs per human genome. These SVs primarily affect non-coding DNA sequences, but the difficulties in interpreting their impact limit our understanding of human disease etiology. The functional annotation of non-coding DNA sequences and methodologies to characterize their three-dimensional (3D) organization in the nucleus have greatly expanded our understanding of the basic mechanisms underlying gene regulation, thereby improving the interpretation of SVs for their pathogenic impact. Here, we discuss the various mechanisms by which SVs can result in altered gene regulation and how these mechanisms can result in rare genetic disorders. Beyond changing gene expression, SVs can produce novel gene-intergenic fusion transcripts at the SV breakpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lila Allou
- RG Development & Disease, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Medical and Human Genetics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Mundlos
- RG Development & Disease, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Medical and Human Genetics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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41
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Wang Y, Yu C, Pei G, Jia W, Li T, Li P. Dissolution of oncofusion transcription factor condensates for cancer therapy. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:1223-1234. [PMID: 37400539 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01376-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated chromosomal rearrangements can result in the expression of numerous pathogenic fusion proteins. The mechanisms by which fusion proteins contribute to oncogenesis are largely unknown, and effective therapies for fusion-associated cancers are lacking. Here we comprehensively scrutinized fusion proteins found in various cancers. We found that many fusion proteins are composed of phase separation-prone domains (PSs) and DNA-binding domains (DBDs), and these fusions have strong correlations with aberrant gene expression patterns. Furthermore, we established a high-throughput screening method, named DropScan, to screen drugs capable of modulating aberrant condensates. One of the drugs identified via DropScan, LY2835219, effectively dissolved condensates in reporter cell lines expressing Ewing sarcoma fusions and partially rescued the abnormal expression of target genes. Our results indicate that aberrant phase separation is likely a common mechanism for these PS-DBD fusion-related cancers and suggest that modulating aberrant phase separation is a potential route to treat these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua University-Peking University Joint Centre for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyu Yu
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gaofeng Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua University-Peking University Joint Centre for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua University-Peking University Joint Centre for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission of China, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Pilong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- Tsinghua University-Peking University Joint Centre for Life Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Cha YJ, Lee C, Joo B, Kim KA, Lee CK, Shim HS. Clinicopathological Characteristics of NRG1 Fusion-Positive Solid Tumors in Korean Patients. Cancer Res Treat 2023; 55:1087-1095. [PMID: 37321274 PMCID: PMC10582527 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2023.682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) gene fusion is a potentially actionable oncogenic driver. The oncoprotein binds to ERBB3-ERBB2 heterodimers and activates downstream signaling, supporting a therapeutic approach for inhibiting ERBB3/ERBB2. However, the frequency and clinicopathological features of solid tumors harboring NRG1 fusions in Korean patients remain largely unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed archival data from next-generation sequencing panel tests conducted at a single institution, specifically selecting patients with in-frame fusions that preserved the functional domain. The clinicopathological characteristics of patients harboring NRG1 fusions were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS Out of 8,148 patients, NRG1 fusions were identified in 22 patients (0.27%). The average age of the patients was 59 years (range, 32 to 78 years), and the male-to-female ratio was 1:1.2. The lung was the most frequently observed primary site (n=13), followed by the pancreaticobiliary tract (n=3), gastrointestinal tract (n=2, stomach and rectum each), ovary (n=2), breast (n=1), and soft tissue (n=1). Histologically, all tumors demonstrated adenocarcinoma histology, with the exception of one case of sarcoma. CD74 (n=8) and SLC3A2 (n=4) were the most frequently identified fusion partners. Dominant features included the presence of fewer than three co-occurring genetic alterations, a low tumor mutation burden, and low programmed death-ligand 1 expression. Various clinical responses were observed in patients with NRG1 fusions. CONCLUSION Despite the rarity of NRG1 fusions in Korean patients with solid tumors, identification through next-generation sequencing enables the possibility of new targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Jin Cha
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Chung Lee
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Bio Joo
- Department of Radiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Kyung A Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Choong-kun Lee
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Hyo Sup Shim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
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Yates ME, Li Z, Li Y, Guzolik H, Wang X, Liu T, Hooda J, Atkinson JM, Lee AV, Oesterreich S. ESR1 fusion proteins invoke breast cancer subtype-dependent enrichment of ligand independent pro-oncogenic signatures and phenotypes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.18.558175. [PMID: 37790296 PMCID: PMC10542116 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.18.558175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a leading cause of female mortality and despite advancements in diagnostics and personalized therapeutics, metastatic disease largely remains incurable due to drug resistance. Fortunately, identification of mechanisms of therapeutic resistance have rapidly transformed our understanding of cancer evasion and is enabling targeted treatment regimens. When the druggable estrogen receptor (ER, ESR1 ), expressed in two-thirds of all breast cancer, is exposed to endocrine therapy, there is risk of somatic mutation development in approximately 30% of cases and subsequent treatment resistance. A more recently discovered mechanism of ER mediated endocrine resistance is the expression of ER fusion proteins. ER fusions, which retain the protein's DNA binding domain, harbor ESR1 exons 1-6 fused to an in-frame gene partner resulting in loss of the 3' ER ligand binding domain (LBD). In this report we demonstrate that in no-special type (NST) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) cell line models, ER fusion proteins exhibit robust hyperactivation of canonical ER signaling pathways independent of the ligand estradiol or anti-endocrine therapies such as Fulvestrant and Tamoxifen. We employ cell line models stably overexpressing ER fusion proteins with concurrent endogenous ER knockdown to minimize the influence of endogenous wildtype ER. Cell lines exhibited shared transcriptomic enrichment in pathways known to be drivers of metastatic disease, notably the MYC pathway. The heterogeneous 3' fusion partners, particularly transcription factors SOX9 and YAP1 , evoked varying degrees of transcriptomic and cistromic activity that translated into unique phenotypic readouts. Herein we report that cell line activity is subtype-, fusion-, and assay-specific suggesting that the loss of the LBD, the 3' fusion partner, and the cellular landscape all influence fusion activity. Therefore, it will be critical to generate additional data on frequency of the ER fusions, in the context of the clinicopathological features of the tumor. Significance ER fusion proteins exhibit diverse mechanisms of endocrine resistance in breast cancer cell lines representing the no special type (NST) and invasive lobular cancer (ILC) subtypes. Our emphasize upon both the shared and unique cellular adaptations imparted by ER fusions offers the foundation for further translational research and clinical decision making.
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Schieffer KM, Moccia A, Bucknor BA, Stonerock E, Jayaraman V, Jenkins H, McKinney A, Koo SC, Mathew MT, Mardis ER, Lee K, Reshmi SC, Cottrell CE. Expanding the Clinical Utility of Targeted RNA Sequencing Panels beyond Gene Fusions to Complex, Intragenic Structural Rearrangements. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4394. [PMID: 37686670 PMCID: PMC10486946 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene fusions are a form of structural rearrangement well established as driver events in pediatric and adult cancers. The identification of such events holds clinical significance in the refinement, prognostication, and provision of treatment in cancer. Structural rearrangements also extend beyond fusions to include intragenic rearrangements, such as internal tandem duplications (ITDs) or exon-level deletions. These intragenic events have been increasingly implicated as cancer-promoting events. However, the detection of intragenic rearrangements may be challenging to resolve bioinformatically with short-read sequencing technologies and therefore may not be routinely assessed in panel-based testing. Within an academic clinical laboratory, over three years, a total of 608 disease-involved samples (522 hematologic malignancy, 86 solid tumors) underwent clinical testing using Anchored Multiplex PCR (AMP)-based RNA sequencing. Hematologic malignancies were evaluated using a custom Pan-Heme 154 gene panel, while solid tumors were assessed using a custom Pan-Solid 115 gene panel. Gene fusions, ITDs, and intragenic deletions were assessed for diagnostic, prognostic, or therapeutic significance. When considering gene fusions alone, we report an overall diagnostic yield of 36% (37% hematologic malignancy, 41% solid tumors). When including intragenic structural rearrangements, the overall diagnostic yield increased to 48% (48% hematologic malignancy, 45% solid tumor). We demonstrate the clinical utility of reporting structural rearrangements, including gene fusions and intragenic structural rearrangements, using an AMP-based RNA sequencing panel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M. Schieffer
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Amanda Moccia
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
| | - Brianna A. Bucknor
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
| | - Eileen Stonerock
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
| | - Vijayakumar Jayaraman
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
| | - Heather Jenkins
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
| | - Aimee McKinney
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
| | - Selene C. Koo
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Mariam T. Mathew
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Elaine R. Mardis
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Kristy Lee
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Shalini C. Reshmi
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Catherine E. Cottrell
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Canoy RJ, Shmakova A, Karpukhina A, Lomov N, Tiukacheva E, Kozhevnikova Y, André F, Germini D, Vassetzky Y. Specificity of cancer-related chromosomal translocations is linked to proximity after the DNA double-strand break and subsequent selection. NAR Cancer 2023; 5:zcad049. [PMID: 37750169 PMCID: PMC10518054 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcad049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Most cancer-related chromosomal translocations appear to be cell type specific. It is currently unknown why different chromosomal translocations occur in different cells. This can be due to either the occurrence of particular translocations in specific cell types or adaptive survival advantage conferred by translocations only in specific cells. We experimentally addressed this question by double-strand break (DSB) induction at MYC, IGH, AML and ETO loci in the same cell to generate chromosomal translocations in different cell lineages. Our results show that any translocation can potentially arise in any cell type. We have analyzed different factors that could affect the frequency of the translocations, and only the spatial proximity between gene loci after the DSB induction correlated with the resulting translocation frequency, supporting the 'breakage-first' model. Furthermore, upon long-term culture of cells with the generated chromosomal translocations, only oncogenic MYC-IGH and AML-ETO translocations persisted over a 60-day period. Overall, the results suggest that chromosomal translocation can be generated after DSB induction in any type of cell, but whether the cell with the translocation would persist in a cell population depends on the cell type-specific selective survival advantage that the chromosomal translocation confers to the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reynand Jay Canoy
- UMR 9018, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Institut Gustave Roussy, F-94805 Villejuif, France
- Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, 1000 Manila, The Philippines
| | - Anna Shmakova
- UMR 9018, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Institut Gustave Roussy, F-94805 Villejuif, France
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, Institute of Experimental Cardiology, Federal State Budgetary Organization ‘National Cardiology Research Center’ of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 127994 Moscow, Russia
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, 117334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna Karpukhina
- UMR 9018, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Institut Gustave Roussy, F-94805 Villejuif, France
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, 117334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Nikolai Lomov
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Eugenia Tiukacheva
- UMR 9018, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Institut Gustave Roussy, F-94805 Villejuif, France
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, 117334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Yana Kozhevnikova
- UMR 9018, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Institut Gustave Roussy, F-94805 Villejuif, France
| | - Franck André
- UMR 9018, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Institut Gustave Roussy, F-94805 Villejuif, France
| | - Diego Germini
- UMR 9018, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Institut Gustave Roussy, F-94805 Villejuif, France
| | - Yegor Vassetzky
- UMR 9018, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, Institut Gustave Roussy, F-94805 Villejuif, France
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, 117334 Moscow, Russia
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Kinnunen M, Liu X, Niemelä E, Öhman T, Gawriyski L, Salokas K, Keskitalo S, Varjosalo M. The Impact of ETV6-NTRK3 Oncogenic Gene Fusions on Molecular and Signaling Pathway Alterations. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4246. [PMID: 37686522 PMCID: PMC10486691 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal translocations creating fusion genes are common cancer drivers. The oncogenic ETV6-NTRK3 (EN) gene fusion joins the sterile alpha domain of the ETV6 transcription factor with the tyrosine kinase domain of the neurotrophin-3 receptor NTRK3. Four EN variants with alternating break points have since been detected in a wide range of human cancers. To provide molecular level insight into EN oncogenesis, we employed a proximity labeling mass spectrometry approach to define the molecular context of the fusions. We identify in total 237 high-confidence interactors, which link EN fusions to several key signaling pathways, including ERBB, insulin and JAK/STAT. We then assessed the effects of EN variants on these pathways, and showed that the pan NTRK inhibitor Selitrectinib (LOXO-195) inhibits the oncogenic activity of EN2, the most common variant. This systems-level analysis defines the molecular framework in which EN oncofusions operate to promote cancer and provides some mechanisms for therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matias Kinnunen
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Xiaonan Liu
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elina Niemelä
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tiina Öhman
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lisa Gawriyski
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kari Salokas
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Salla Keskitalo
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markku Varjosalo
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
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Arafat M, Sperling R. Crosstalk between Long Non-Coding RNA and Spliceosomal microRNA as a Novel Biomarker for Cancer. Noncoding RNA 2023; 9:42. [PMID: 37624034 PMCID: PMC10459839 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna9040042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play diverse roles in regulating cellular processes and have been implicated in pathological conditions, including cancer, where interactions between ncRNAs play a role. Relevant here are (i) microRNAs (miRNAs), mainly known as negative regulators of gene expression in the cytoplasm. However, identification of miRNAs in the nucleus suggested novel nuclear functions, and (ii) long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) regulates gene expression at multiple levels. The recent findings of miRNA in supraspliceosomes of human breast and cervical cancer cells revealed new candidates of lncRNA targets. Here, we highlight potential cases of crosstalk between lncRNA and supraspliceosomal miRNA expressed from the same genomic region, having complementary sequences. Through RNA:RNA base pairing, changes in the level of one partner (either miRNA or lncRNA), as occur in cancer, could affect the level of the other, which might be involved in breast and cervical cancer. An example is spliceosomal mir-7704 as a negative regulator of the oncogenic lncRNA HAGLR. Because the expression of spliceosomal miRNA is cell-type-specific, the list of cis-interacting lncRNA:spliceosomal miRNA presented here is likely just the tip of the iceberg, and such interactions are likely relevant to additional cancers. We thus highlight the potential of lncRNA:spliceosomal miRNA interactions as novel targets for cancer diagnosis and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maram Arafat
- Department of Genetics, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Ruth Sperling
- Department of Genetics, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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Salokas K, Dashi G, Varjosalo M. Decoding Oncofusions: Unveiling Mechanisms, Clinical Impact, and Prospects for Personalized Cancer Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3678. [PMID: 37509339 PMCID: PMC10377698 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated gene fusions, also known as oncofusions, have emerged as influential drivers of oncogenesis across a diverse range of cancer types. These genetic events occur via chromosomal translocations, deletions, and inversions, leading to the fusion of previously separate genes. Due to the drastic nature of these mutations, they often result in profound alterations of cellular behavior. The identification of oncofusions has revolutionized cancer research, with advancements in sequencing technologies facilitating the discovery of novel fusion events at an accelerated pace. Oncofusions exert their effects through the manipulation of critical cellular signaling pathways that regulate processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Extensive investigations have been conducted to understand the roles of oncofusions in solid tumors, leukemias, and lymphomas. Large-scale initiatives, including the Cancer Genome Atlas, have played a pivotal role in unraveling the landscape of oncofusions by characterizing a vast number of cancer samples across different tumor types. While validating the functional relevance of oncofusions remains a challenge, even non-driver mutations can hold significance in cancer treatment. Oncofusions have demonstrated potential value in the context of immunotherapy through the production of neoantigens. Their clinical importance has been observed in both treatment and diagnostic settings, with specific fusion events serving as therapeutic targets or diagnostic markers. However, despite the progress made, there is still considerable untapped potential within the field of oncofusions. Further research and validation efforts are necessary to understand their effects on a functional basis and to exploit the new targeted treatment avenues offered by oncofusions. Through further functional and clinical studies, oncofusions will enable the advancement of precision medicine and the drive towards more effective and specific treatments for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari Salokas
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Giovanna Dashi
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markku Varjosalo
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
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Guo G, Wang X, Zhang Y, Li T. Sequence variations of phase-separating proteins and resources for studying biomolecular condensates. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2023; 55:1119-1132. [PMID: 37464880 PMCID: PMC10423696 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2023131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Phase separation (PS) is an important mechanism underlying the formation of biomolecular condensates. Physiological condensates are associated with numerous biological processes, such as transcription, immunity, signaling, and synaptic transmission. Changes in particular amino acids or segments can disturb the protein's phase behavior and interactions with other biomolecules in condensates. It is thus presumed that variations in the phase-separating-prone domains can significantly impact the properties and functions of condensates. The dysfunction of condensates contributes to a number of pathological processes. Pharmacological perturbation of these condensates is proposed as a promising way to restore physiological states. In this review, we characterize the variations observed in PS proteins that lead to aberrant biomolecular compartmentalization. We also showcase recent advancements in bioinformatics of membraneless organelles (MLOs), focusing on available databases useful for screening PS proteins and describing endogenous condensates, guiding researchers to seek the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of biomolecular condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaigai Guo
- Department of Biomedical InformaticsSchool of Basic Medical SciencesPeking University Health Science CenterBeijing100191China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- Department of Biomedical InformaticsSchool of Basic Medical SciencesPeking University Health Science CenterBeijing100191China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Biomedical InformaticsSchool of Basic Medical SciencesPeking University Health Science CenterBeijing100191China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Biomedical InformaticsSchool of Basic Medical SciencesPeking University Health Science CenterBeijing100191China
- Key Laboratory for NeuroscienceMinistry of Education/National Health Commission of ChinaPeking UniversityBeijing100191China
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50
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Lee G, Muir TW. Distinct phases of cellular signaling revealed by time-resolved protein synthesis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.10.548208. [PMID: 37503273 PMCID: PMC10369872 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.10.548208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The post-translational regulation of protein function is involved in most cellular processes. As such, synthetic biology tools that operate at this level provide opportunities for manipulating cellular states. Here, we deploy a proximity-triggered protein trans-splicing technology to enable the time-resolved synthesis of target proteins from pre-made parts. The modularity of the strategy allows for the addition or removal of various control elements as a function of the splicing reaction, in the process permitting the cellular location and/or activity state of starting materials and products to be differentiated. The approach is applied to a diverse set of proteins, including the kinase oncofusions BCR/ABL and DNAJB1/PRKACA where dynamic cellular phosphorylation events are dissected, revealing distinct phases of signaling and identifying molecular players connecting the oncofusion to cancer transformation as novel therapeutic targets of cancer cells. We envision that the tools and control strategies developed herein will allow the activity of both naturally occurring and designer proteins to be harnessed for basic and applied research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gihoon Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Tom W. Muir
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
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