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Chatzilygeroudi T, Chondrou V, Boers R, Siamoglou S, Athanasopoulou K, Verigou E, Gribnau J, Alexis S, Labropoulou V, Kourakli A, Patrinos GP, Sgourou A, Symeonidis A. Fetal hemoglobin induction in azacytidine responders enlightens methylation patterns related to blast clearance in higher-risk MDS and CMML. Clin Epigenetics 2024; 16:79. [PMID: 38879530 PMCID: PMC11180405 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-024-01687-x] [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: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As new treatment options for patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes are emerging, identification of prognostic markers for hypomethylating agent (HMA) treatment and understanding mechanisms of their delayed and short-term responses are essential. Early fetal hemoglobin (HbF) induction has been suggested as a prognostic indicator for decitabine-treated patients. Although epigenetic mechanisms are assumed, responding patients' epigenomes have not been thoroughly examined. We aimed to clarify HbF kinetics and prognostic value for azacytidine treated patients, as well as the epigenetic landscape that might influence HbF re-expression and its clinical relevance. RESULTS Serial HbF measurements by high-performance liquid chromatography (n = 20) showed induction of HbF only among responders (p = 0.030). Moreover, HbF increase immediately after the first azacytidine cycle demonstrated prognostic value for progression-free survival (PFS) (p = 0.032, HR = 0.19, CI 0.24-1.63). Changes in methylation patterns were revealed with methylated DNA genome-wide sequencing analysis (n = 7) for FOG-1, RCOR-1, ZBTB7A and genes of the NuRD-complex components. Targeted pyrosequencing methodology (n = 28) revealed a strong inverse correlation between the degree of γ-globin gene (HBG2) promoter methylation and baseline HbF levels (p = 0.003, rs = - 0.663). A potential epigenetic mechanism of HbF re-expression in azacytidine responders was enlightened by targeted methylation analysis, through hypomethylation of site -53 of HBG2 promoter (p = 0.039, rs = - 0.504), which corresponds to MBD2-NuRD binding site, and to hypermethylation of the CpG326 island of ZBTB7A (p = 0.05, rs = 0.482), a known HbF repressor. These changes were associated to blast cell clearance (pHBG2 = 0.011, rs = 0.480/pZBTB7A = 0.026, rs = 0.427) and showed prognostic value for PFS (pZBTB7A = 0.037, HR = 1.14, CI 0.34-3.8). CONCLUSIONS Early HbF induction is featured as an accessible prognostic indicator for HMA treatment and the proposed potential epigenetic mechanism of HbF re-expression in azacytidine responders includes hypomethylation of the γ-globin gene promoter region and hypermethylation of the CpG326 island of ZBTB7A. The association of these methylation patterns with blast clearance and their prognostic value for PFS paves the way to discuss in-depth azacytidine epigenetic mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Chatzilygeroudi
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hematology Division, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vasiliki Chondrou
- Biology Laboratory, School of Science and Technology, Hellenic Open University, Patras, Greece
| | - Ruben Boers
- Department of Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stavroula Siamoglou
- Laboratory of Pharmacogenomics and Individualized Therapy, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, University Campus, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Katerina Athanasopoulou
- Biology Laboratory, School of Science and Technology, Hellenic Open University, Patras, Greece
| | - Evgenia Verigou
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hematology Division, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Joost Gribnau
- Department of Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Spyridon Alexis
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hematology Division, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Labropoulou
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hematology Division, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Alexandra Kourakli
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hematology Division, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - George P Patrinos
- Department of Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Pharmacogenomics and Individualized Therapy, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, University Campus, Rio, Patras, Greece
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Argyro Sgourou
- Biology Laboratory, School of Science and Technology, Hellenic Open University, Patras, Greece
| | - Argiris Symeonidis
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hematology Division, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.
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Zhang L, Deeb G, Deeb KK, Vale C, Peker Barclift D, Papadantonakis N. Measurable (Minimal) Residual Disease in Myelodysplastic Neoplasms (MDS): Current State and Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1503. [PMID: 38672585 PMCID: PMC11048433 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic Neoplasms (MDS) have been traditionally studied through the assessment of blood counts, cytogenetics, and morphology. In recent years, the introduction of molecular assays has improved our ability to diagnose MDS. The role of Measurable (minimal) Residual Disease (MRD) in MDS is evolving, and molecular and flow cytometry techniques have been used in several studies. In this review, we will highlight the evolving concept of MRD in MDS, outline the various techniques utilized, and provide an overview of the studies reporting MRD and the correlation with outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linsheng Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - George Deeb
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Kristin K. Deeb
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Colin Vale
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Deniz Peker Barclift
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Nikolaos Papadantonakis
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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3
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Hochman MJ, DeZern AE. SOHO State of the Art Updates and Next Questions: An Update on Higher Risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA, MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2024:S2152-2650(24)00113-7. [PMID: 38594129 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2024.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (HR-MDS) are clonal myeloid neoplasms that cause life-limiting complications from severe cytopenias and leukemic transformation. Efforts to better classify, prognosticate, and assess therapeutic responses in HR-MDS have resulted in publication of new clinical tools in the last several years. Given limited current treatment options and suboptimal outcomes, HR-MDS stands to benefit from the study of investigational agents.Higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (HR-MDS) are a heterogenous group of clonal myeloid-lineage malignancies often characterized by high-risk genetic lesions, increased blood transfusion needs, constitutional symptoms, elevated risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and therapeutic need for allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Use of blast percentage and other morphologic features to define myelodysplastic neoplasm subtypes is rapidly shifting to incorporate genetics, resulting in a subset of former HR-MDS patients now being considered as AML in presence of leukemia-defining genetic alterations. A proliferation of prognostic tools has further focused use of genetic features to drive decision making in clinical management. Recently, criteria to assess response of HR-MDS to therapy were revised to incorporate more clinically meaningful endpoints and better match AML response criteria. Basic science investigations have resulted in improved understanding of the relationship between MDS genetic lesions, bone marrow stromal changes, germline predispositions, and disease phenotype. However, therapeutic advances have been more limited. There has been import of the IDH1 inhibitor ivosidenib, initially approved for AML; the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax and liposomal daunorubicin/cytarabine (CPX-351) are under active investigation as well. Unfortunately, effective treatment of TP53-mutated disease remains elusive, though preliminary evidence suggests improved outcomes with oral decitabine/cedazuridine over parenteral hypomethylating agent monotherapy. Investigational agents with novel mechanisms of action may help expand the repertoire of treatment options for HR-MDS and trials continue to offer a hopeful therapeutic avenue for suitable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Hochman
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Amy E DeZern
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD.
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4
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Sharplin K, Proudman W, Chhetri R, Tran ENH, Choong J, Kutyna M, Selby P, Sapio A, Friel O, Khanna S, Singhal D, Damin M, Ross D, Yeung D, Thomas D, Kok CH, Hiwase D. A Personalized Risk Model for Azacitidine Outcome in Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Other Myeloid Neoplasms Identified by Machine Learning Model Utilizing Real-World Data. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4019. [PMID: 37627047 PMCID: PMC10452100 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Azacitidine is an approved therapy for higher-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). However, only 30-40% patients respond to azacitidine, and the responses may take up to six cycles to become evident. Delayed responses and the myelosuppressive effects of azacitidine make it challenging to predict which patients will benefit. This is further compounded by a lack of uniform prognostic tools to identify patients at risk of early treatment failure. Hence, we performed a retrospective analysis of 273 consecutive azacytidine-treated patients. The median overall survival was 16.25 months with only 9% alive at 5 years. By using pre-treatment variables incorporated into a random forest machine learning model, we successfully identified those patients unlikely to benefit from azacytidine upfront (7.99 vs. 22.8 months, p < 0.0001). This model also identified those who required significantly more hospitalizations and transfusion support. Notably, it accurately predicted survival outcomes, outperforming the existing prognostic scoring system. By integrating somatic mutations, we further refined the model and identified three distinct risk groups with significant differences in survival (5.6 vs. 10.5 vs. 43.5 months, p < 0.0001). These real-world findings emphasize the urgent need for personalized prediction tools tailored to hypomethylating agents, reducing unnecessary complications and resource utilization in MDS treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Sharplin
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - William Proudman
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Rakchha Chhetri
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Ngoc Hoa Tran
- Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Jamie Choong
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Monika Kutyna
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Philip Selby
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Aidan Sapio
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Oisin Friel
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Beaumont Hospital, D09 V2N0 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Shreyas Khanna
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Deepak Singhal
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Michelle Damin
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - David Ross
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Genetic and Molecular Pathology, SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - David Yeung
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Daniel Thomas
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Chung H. Kok
- Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Devendra Hiwase
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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Montoro MJ, Pomares H, Coll R, Bernal Del Castillo T, Tormo M, Jiménez A, Brunet S, Casaño J, Oiartzabal I, Díez-Campelo M, Ramos F, Romero R, Salido-Fiérrez E, Pedro C, Bargay J, Muñoz-Novas C, López R, Rafel M, Valcárcel D. Evaluation of the outcomes of newly diagnosed patients with high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome according to the initial therapeutical strategies chosen in usual clinical practice. Leuk Lymphoma 2023; 64:679-690. [PMID: 36577016 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2022.2154604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of diseases without a care standard and show variability in treatment outcomes. This Spanish, observational, prospective study ERASME (CEL-SMD-2012-01) assessed the evolution of newly diagnosed and treatment-naïve high-risk MDS patients (according to IPPS-R). 204 patients were included: median age 73.0 years, 54.4% males, 69.6% 0-1 ECOG, and 94.6% with comorbidities. Active treatment was the most common strategy (52.0%) vs. stem cell transplantation (25.5%) and supportive care/watchful-waiting (22.5%). Overall (median) event-free survival was 7.9 months (9.1, 8.3, and 5.3); progression-free survival: 10.1 months (12.9, 12.8, and 4.3); and overall survival: 13.8 months (15.4, 14.9; 8.4), respectively, with significant differences among groups. Adverse events (AEs) of ≥3 grade were reported in 72.6% of patients; serious AEs reported in 60.6%. 33.1% of patients died due to AEs. Three patients developed second primary malignant neoplasms (median: 8.2 months). Our study showed better outcomes in patients receiving active therapy early after diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Julia Montoro
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitari Vall d´Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helena Pomares
- ICO-Hospital Duran i Reynals, IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Rosa Coll
- ICO-Hospital Universitari Doctor Josep Trueta, Girona, Spain
| | | | - Mar Tormo
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia e Instituto de Investigación INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Jiménez
- Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Salut Brunet
- Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Casaño
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, IMIBIC, Córdoba, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Rafael Romero
- Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Pontevedra, Pontevedra, Spain
| | | | | | - Joan Bargay
- Hospital Son Llàtzer, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | | | - Rocío López
- Celgene S.L.U., a Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - David Valcárcel
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitari Vall d´Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
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6
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Symeonidis A, Chatzilygeroudi T, Chondrou V, Sgourou A. Contingent Synergistic Interactions between Non-Coding RNAs and DNA-Modifying Enzymes in Myelodysplastic Syndromes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416069. [PMID: 36555712 PMCID: PMC9785516 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders with maturation and differentiation defects exhibiting morphological dysplasia in one or more hematopoietic cell lineages. They are associated with peripheral blood cytopenias and by increased risk for progression into acute myelogenous leukemia. Among their multifactorial pathogenesis, age-related epigenetic instability and the error-rate DNA methylation maintenance have been recognized as critical factors for both the initial steps of their pathogenesis and for disease progression. Although lower-risk MDS is associated with an inflammatory bone marrow microenvironment, higher-risk disease is delineated by immunosuppression and clonal expansion. "Epigenetics" is a multidimensional level of gene regulation that determines the specific gene networks expressed in tissues under physiological conditions and guides appropriate chromatin rearrangements upon influence of environmental stimulation. Regulation of this level consists of biochemical modifications in amino acid residues of the histone proteins' N-terminal tails and their concomitant effects on chromatin structure, DNA methylation patterns in CpG dinucleotides and the tissue-specific non-coding RNAs repertoire, which are directed against various gene targets. The role of epigenetic modifications is widely recognized as pivotal both in gene expression control and differential molecular response to drug therapies in humans. Insights to the potential of synergistic cooperations of epigenetic mechanisms provide new avenues for treatment development to comfort human diseases with a known epigenetic shift, such as MDS. Hypomethylating agents (HMAs), such as epigenetic modulating drugs, have been widely used in the past years as first line treatment for elderly higher-risk MDS patients; however, just half of them respond to therapy and are benefited. Rational outcome predictors following epigenetic therapy in MDS and biomarkers associated with disease relapse are of high importance to improve our efforts in developing patient-tailored clinical approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Argiris Symeonidis
- Hematology Division & Stem Cell Transplantation Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
- Medical School University of Patras, University Campus, 26500 Patras, Greece
| | - Theodora Chatzilygeroudi
- Hematology Division & Stem Cell Transplantation Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Chondrou
- Biology Laboratory, School of Science and Technology, Hellenic Open University, 26335 Patras, Greece
| | - Argyro Sgourou
- Biology Laboratory, School of Science and Technology, Hellenic Open University, 26335 Patras, Greece
- Correspondence:
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7
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Short NJ, Kantarjian H. Hypomethylating agents for the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia: Past discoveries and future directions. Am J Hematol 2022; 97:1616-1626. [PMID: 35871436 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.26667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Azacitidine and decitabine are hypomethylating agents that have dose-dependent epigenetic and cytotoxic effects and are widely used in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In this review, we discuss the path to regulatory approval of azacitidine and decitabine, highlighting the substantial efforts that have been made to optimize the dosing schedule and administration of these drugs, including the development of new, oral formulations of both agents. We also review novel combination strategies that are being investigated in ongoing clinical trials for patients with MDS and AML, as well as efforts to expand the current indications of these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Short
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hagop Kantarjian
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Merkerova MD, Krejcik Z. Transposable elements and Piwi‑interacting RNAs in hemato‑oncology with a focus on myelodysplastic syndrome (Review). Int J Oncol 2021; 59:105. [PMID: 34779490 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2021.5285] [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: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Our current understanding of hematopoietic stem cell differentiation and the abnormalities that lead to leukemogenesis originates from the accumulation of knowledge regarding protein‑coding genes. However, the possible impact of transposable element (TE) mobilization and the expression of P‑element‑induced WImpy testis‑interacting RNAs (piRNAs) on leukemogenesis has been beyond the scope of scientific interest to date. The expression profiles of these molecules and their importance for human health have only been characterized recently due to the rapid progress of high‑throughput sequencing technology development. In the present review, current knowledge on the expression profile and function of TEs and piRNAs was summarized, with specific focus on their reported involvement in leukemogenesis and pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zdenek Krejcik
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, 128 20 Prague, Czech Republic
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Kordella C, Lamprianidou E, Kotsianidis I. Mechanisms of Action of Hypomethylating Agents: Endogenous Retroelements at the Epicenter. Front Oncol 2021; 11:650473. [PMID: 33768008 PMCID: PMC7985079 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.650473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal DNA methylation patterns are thought to drive the pathobiology of high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (HR-MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Sixteen years after their initial approval, the hypomethylating agents (HMAs), 5-azacytidine (AZA) and 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine, remain the mainstay of treatment for HR-MDS and AML. However, a connection of the hypomethylating or additional effects of HMAs with clinical responses remains yet to be shown, and the mode of action of HMAs remains obscure. Given the relatively short-lived responses and the inevitable development of resistance in HMAs, a thorough understanding of the antineoplastic mechanisms employed by HMAs holds critical importance. Recent data in cancer cell lines demonstrate that reactivation of endogenous retroelements (EREs) and induction of a cell-intrinsic antiviral response triggered by RNA neotranscripts may underlie the antitumor activity of HMAs. However, data on primary CD34+ cells derived from patients with HR-MDS failed to confirm a link between HMA-mediated ERE modulation and clinical response. Though difficult to reconcile the apparent discrepancy, it is possible that HMAs mediate their effects in more advanced levels of differentiation where cells become responsive to interferon, whereas, inter-individual variations in the process of RNA editing and, in particular, in the ADAR1/OAS/RNase L pathway may also confound the associations of clinical response with the induction of viral mimicry. Further ex vivo studies along with clinical correlations in well-annotated patient cohorts are warranted to decipher the role of ERE derepression in the antineoplastic mechanisms of HMAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chryssoula Kordella
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Eleftheria Lamprianidou
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Ioannis Kotsianidis
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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Oral cedazuridine/decitabine for MDS and CMML: a phase 2 pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic randomized crossover study. Blood 2021; 136:674-683. [PMID: 32285126 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019004143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This phase 2 study was designed to compare systemic decitabine exposure, demethylation activity, and safety in the first 2 cycles with cedazuridine 100 mg/decitabine 35 mg vs standard decitabine 20 mg/m2 IV. Adults with International Prognostic Scoring System intermediate-1/2- or high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) or chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) were randomized 1:1 to receive oral cedazuridine/decitabine or IV decitabine in cycle 1, followed by crossover to the other treatment in cycle 2. All patients received oral cedazuridine/decitabine in subsequent cycles. Cedazuridine and decitabine were given initially as separate capsules in a dose-confirmation stage and then as a single fixed-dose combination (FDC) tablet. Primary end points: mean decitabine systemic exposure (geometric least-squares mean [LSM]) of oral/IV 5-day area under curve from time 0 to last measurable concentration (AUClast), percentage long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE-1) DNA demethylation for oral cedazuridine/decitabine vs IV decitabine, and clinical response. Eighty patients were randomized and treated. Oral/IV ratios of geometric LSM 5-day AUClast (80% confidence interval) were 93.5% (82.1-106.5) and 97.6% (80.5-118.3) for the dose-confirmation and FDC stages, respectively. Differences in mean %LINE-1 demethylation between oral and IV were ≤1%. Clinical responses were observed in 48 patients (60%), including 17 (21%) with complete response. The most common grade ≥3 adverse events regardless of causality were neutropenia (46%), thrombocytopenia (38%), and febrile neutropenia (29%). Oral cedazuridine/decitabine (100/35 mg) produced similar systemic decitabine exposure, DNA demethylation, and safety vs decitabine 20 mg/m2 IV in the first 2 cycles, with similar efficacy. This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02103478.
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11
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Hasserjian RP, Buckstein R, Patnaik MM. Navigating Myelodysplastic and Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Overlap Syndromes. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2021; 41:328-350. [PMID: 34010050 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_320113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and MDS/myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are clonal diseases that differ in morphologic diagnostic criteria but share some common disease phenotypes that include cytopenias, propensity to acute myeloid leukemia evolution, and a substantially shortened patient survival. MDS/MPNs share many clinical and molecular features with MDS, including frequent mutations involving epigenetic modifier and/or spliceosome genes. Although the current 2016 World Health Organization classification incorporates some genetic features in its diagnostic criteria for MDS and MDS/MPNs, recent accumulation of data has underscored the importance of the mutation profiles on both disease classification and prognosis. Machine-learning algorithms have identified distinct molecular genetic signatures that help refine prognosis and notable associations of these genetic signatures with morphologic and clinical features. Combined geno-clinical models that incorporate mutation data seem to surpass the current prognostic schemes. Future MDS classification and prognostication schema will be based on the portfolio of genetic aberrations and traditional features, such as blast count and clinical factors. Arriving at these systems will require studies on large patient cohorts that incorporate advanced computational analysis. The current treatment algorithm in MDS is based on patient risk as derived from existing prognostic and disease classes. Luspatercept is newly approved for patients with MDS and ring sideroblasts who are transfusion dependent after erythropoietic-stimulating agent failure. Other agents that address red blood cell transfusion dependence in patients with lower-risk MDS and the failure of hypomethylating agents in higher-risk disease are in advanced testing. Finally, a plethora of novel targeted agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors are being evaluated in combination with a hypomethylating agent backbone to augment the depth and duration of response and, we hope, improve overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rena Buckstein
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Center, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mrinal M Patnaik
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, MN
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12
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Bewersdorf JP, Carraway H, Prebet T. Emerging treatment options for patients with high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome. Ther Adv Hematol 2020; 11:2040620720955006. [PMID: 33240476 PMCID: PMC7675905 DOI: 10.1177/2040620720955006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders
characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis with peripheral blood cytopenias,
dysplastic cell morphology, and a variable risk of progression to acute myeloid
leukemia (AML). The hypomethylating agents (HMA) azacitidine and decitabine have
been used for over a decade in MDS treatment and lead to a modest survival
benefit. However, response rates are only around 40% and responses are mostly
transient. For HMA-refractory patients the prognosis is poor and there are no
therapies approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration. Combinations of HMAs, especially along with immune checkpoint inhibitors, have
shown promising signals in both the frontline and HMA-refractory setting.
Several other novel agents including orally available and longer acting HMAs,
the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax, oral agents targeting driver mutations
(IDH1/2, FLT3), immunotherapies, and new options for
intensive chemotherapy have been studied with variable success and will be
reviewed herein. Except for the minority of patients with targetable driver
mutations, HMAs – likely as part of combination therapies – will remain the
backbone of frontline MDS treatment. However, the wider use of genetic testing
may enable a more targeted and individualized therapy of MDS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hetty Carraway
- Leukemia Program, Hematology and Medical Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Thomas Prebet
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, 37 College Street, Room 101, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
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13
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Bewersdorf JP, Zeidan AM. Good but not good enough: Clinical trial participation of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes. Cancer 2020; 126:4664-4667. [PMID: 32767670 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Amer M Zeidan
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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14
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Bewersdorf JP, Zeidan AM. Management of higher risk myelodysplastic syndromes after hypomethylating agents failure: are we about to exit the black hole? Expert Rev Hematol 2020; 13:1131-1142. [DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2020.1819233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Amer M. Zeidan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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15
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Papadopoulos V, Diamantopoulos PT, Papageorgiou SG, Papoutselis M, Vrachiolias G, Pappa V, Galanopoulos AG, Vassilakopoulos TP, Hatzimichael E, Zikos P, Papadaki HA, Bouchla A, Panayiotidis P, Megalakaki A, Papaioannou M, Liapis K, Dryllis G, Tsokanas D, Kourakli A, Symeonidis A, Viniou NA, Kotsianidis I. Estimated glomerular filtration rate independently predicts outcome of azacitidine therapy in higher-risk Myelodysplastic syndromes. Results from 536 patients of the Hellenic National Registry of Myelodysplastic and Hypoplastic syndromes. Hematol Oncol 2020; 38:541-553. [PMID: 32495951 DOI: 10.1002/hon.2756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Higher-risk Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) patients undergoing treatment with 5-azacytidine (AZA) are typically elderly with several comorbidities. However, the effect of comorbidities on the effectiveness and safety of AZA in real-world settings remains unclear. We analyzed data from 536 AZA-treated patients with higher-risk MDS, Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative neoplasms and low blast count Acute Myeloid Leukemia enrolled to the Hellenic National Registry of Myelodysplastic and Hypoplastic Syndromes. Multivariate analysis adjusted also for the International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS), its revised version (IPSS-R) and the French Prognostic Scoring System (FPSS), demonstrated independent associations of overall and leukemia-free survival with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <45 mL min-1 /1.73 m2 (P = .039, P = .023, respectively), ECOG performance status <2 (P = .015, P = .006), and presence of peripheral blood blasts (P = .008, P = .034), while secondary MDS also correlated with significantly shorter leukemia-free survival (P = .039). Addition of eGFR <45 mL min-1 /1.73 m2 , in IPSS-R and FPSS increased the predictive power of both models. Only FPSS ≤2 and eGFR <45 mL min-1 /1.73 m2 predicted worse response to AZA in multivariate analysis, whereas eGFR <45 mL min-1 /1.73 m2 correlated significantly with death from hemorrhage (P = .003) and cardiovascular complications (P = .006). In conclusion, in the second largest real-world series of AZA-treated MDS patients, we show that an eGFR <45 mL min-1 /1.73 m2 is an independent predictor of worse response and survival. This higher cut-off, instead of the commonly used serum creatinine >2 mg/dL, can be utilized as a more precise indicator of renal comorbidity during AZA therapy. Incorporation of eGFR in the prognostic assessment of AZA-treated MDS patients may prove useful not only in routine practice, but also for the appropriate patient stratification in clinical trials with AZA combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Papadopoulos
- Department of Hematology, Democritus University of Thrace Medical School, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | - Sotirios G Papageorgiou
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Unit, Attikon University General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Menelaos Papoutselis
- Department of Hematology, Democritus University of Thrace Medical School, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - George Vrachiolias
- Department of Hematology, Democritus University of Thrace Medical School, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Pappa
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Unit, Attikon University General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Theodoros P Vassilakopoulos
- Department of Hematology, Laikon General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Panagiotis Zikos
- Department of Hematology, General Hospital of Patras "Agios Andreas", Patras, Greece
| | - Helen A Papadaki
- Department of Hematology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Anthi Bouchla
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Unit, Attikon University General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Panayiotis Panayiotidis
- First Propaedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Maria Papaioannou
- Department of Hematology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Liapis
- Department of Hematology, Democritus University of Thrace Medical School, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - George Dryllis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tsokanas
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras, Rio, Greece
| | - Alexandra Kourakli
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras, Rio, Greece
| | - Argiris Symeonidis
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras, Rio, Greece
| | - Nora-Athina Viniou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Kotsianidis
- Department of Hematology, Democritus University of Thrace Medical School, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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16
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Cruijsen M, van der Velden WJFM, de Haan AFJ, Klein SK, Hoogendoorn M, Tromp Y, de Valk B, van Rees B, de Boer F, van der Spek E, Pruijt J, Verdonck LF, Vellenga E, Blijlevens N, van de Loosdrecht AA, Huls G. Use of azacitidine and its safety and efficacy in daily clinical practice in The Netherlands: the OCEAN study. Leuk Lymphoma 2020; 61:2752-2755. [PMID: 32530341 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2020.1775217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Cruijsen
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - A F J de Haan
- Department for Health evidence, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - S K Klein
- Meander Medical Center, Amersfoort, Netherlands
| | | | - Y Tromp
- Ropcke-Zweers Hospital, Hardenberg, Netherlands
| | - B de Valk
- Spaarne Hospital, Hoofddorp, Netherlands
| | - B van Rees
- Tjongerschans Hospital, Heerenveen, Netherlands
| | - F de Boer
- Ikazia Hospital, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - J Pruijt
- Jeroen Bosch Hospital, Den Bosch, Netherlands
| | | | - E Vellenga
- University Medical Center, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - N Blijlevens
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - G Huls
- University Medical Center, Groningen, Netherlands
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17
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Bewersdorf JP, Zeidan AM. Following in the footsteps of acute myeloid leukemia: are we witnessing the start of a therapeutic revolution for higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes? Leuk Lymphoma 2020; 61:2295-2312. [PMID: 32421403 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2020.1761968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
For most patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (HR-MDS) the hypomethylating agents (HMA) azacitidine and decitabine remain the mainstay of therapy. However, the prognosis mostly remains poor and aside from allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation no curative treatment options exist. Unlike acute myeloid leukemia, which has seen a dramatic expansion of available therapies recently, no new agents have been approved for MDS in the United States since 2006. However, various novel HMAs, HMA in combination with venetoclax, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and targeted therapies for genetically defined patient subgroups such as APR-246 or IDH inhibitors, have shown promising results in early stages of clinical testing. Furthermore, the wider availability of genetic testing is going to allow for a more individualized treatment of MDS patients. Herein, we review the current treatment approach for HR-MDS and discuss recent therapeutic advances and the implications of genetic testing on management of HR-MDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Amer M Zeidan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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18
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Davidoff AJ, Hu X, Bewersdorf JP, Wang R, Podoltsev NA, Huntington SF, Gore SD, Ma X, Zeidan AM. Hypomethylating agent (HMA) therapy use and survival in older adults with Refractory Anemia with Excess Blasts (RAEB) in the United States (USA): a large propensity score-matched population-based study †. Leuk Lymphoma 2020; 61:1178-1187. [PMID: 31878809 PMCID: PMC7735409 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2019.1703970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hypomethylating agents (HMA) showed overall survival (OS) benefits in patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (HR-MDS) in clinical trials. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)-Medicare data of patients ≥66 years diagnosed with refractory anemia with excess blasts (RAEB), a proxy for HR-MDS, in 01/2001-04/2004 (pre-period) or 01/2006-12/2011 (post-period). Association between post-period diagnosis and OS was examined using propensity scores (PS)-matched samples. Among 1876 RAEB patients, median OS was 9 months and 30.8% received HMAs (3.6% in pre-period; 43.0% in post-period) with no association between post-period diagnosis and OS. In the top PS quartile, post-period diagnosis was associated with a 74% lower risk of death (Hazard ratio [HR] = 0.26, 95%-CI: 0.10-0.69, p = 0.007), while outcomes were worse in the lowest PS quartile (HR = 2.80, 95%-CI: 1.06-7.36, p = 0.037). HMA lead to a 3-month OS benefit for patients most likely to receive HMA but not for unselected RAEB cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J. Davidoff
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Xin Hu
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Rong Wang
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Nikolai A. Podoltsev
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Scott F. Huntington
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Steven D. Gore
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Xiaomei Ma
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Amer M. Zeidan
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT
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19
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Chandhok NS, Lewis R, Prebet T. Hypomethylating agent based combinations in higher risk myelodysplastic syndrome. Leuk Lymphoma 2020; 61:1012-1027. [PMID: 31814484 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2019.1697812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
For over a decade the hypomethylating agents (HMA) azacitidine and decitabine have been the mainstay of therapy for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). There is a critical need to improve frontline therapy, given that only up to half of high-risk MDS patients will respond to HMA therapy, and responses are short-lived. Currently, a key strategy has been to combine HMAs with other novel agents to improve patient outcomes. While synergy of agents is the goal of combination therapy, combinations often come at the cost of increased side effects that are often intolerable in this vulnerable population. The purpose of this review is to critically examine clinically relevant HMA combinations and discuss the future of MDS management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata S Chandhok
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Russell Lewis
- Smilow Cancer Center at Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Thomas Prebet
- Smilow Cancer Center at Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
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20
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Scalzulli E, Pepe S, Colafigli G, Breccia M. Therapeutic strategies in low and high-risk MDS: What does the future have to offer? Blood Rev 2020; 45:100689. [PMID: 32253020 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2020.100689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of myeloid disorders characterized by cytopenias and increased risk of acute leukemia transformation. Prognosis of MDS patients can be assessed by various scoring systems, the most common being the International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) now refined by the revised version (IPSS-R). Genomic information at baseline, that is currently not included in clinical prognostic scores, will, in the future, help us to stratify patients with various prognoses. Therapy of MDS is based on risk stratification. The aim of therapy in low-risk MDS is to improve anemia or thrombocytopenia, decrease transfusion needs, improve quality of life, attempt to prolong overall survival, and reduce the risk of progression. In higher-risk MDS, the goal of therapy is to prolong survival and reduce the risk of transformation into acute leukemia. Only a few drugs are currently available for treatment, but more drugs are now under clinical investigation, in line with new, recently discovered molecular and immunological pathways. This review describes potential new drugs for low and high-risk MDS. The increasing knowledge of immunological and signalling pathways in MDS will assist us in identifying targeted patient-oriented treatments. In the near future, initial molecular stratification will lead the way to a personalized approach and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Scalzulli
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Az. Policlinico Umberto 1, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Pepe
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Az. Policlinico Umberto 1, Rome, Italy
| | - Gioia Colafigli
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Az. Policlinico Umberto 1, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Breccia
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Az. Policlinico Umberto 1, Rome, Italy.
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21
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Xu QY, Yu L. Epigenetic therapies in acute myeloid leukemia: the role of hypomethylating agents, histone deacetylase inhibitors and the combination of hypomethylating agents with histone deacetylase inhibitors. Chin Med J (Engl) 2020; 133:699-715. [PMID: 32044818 PMCID: PMC7190219 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000000685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation includes changes of DNA methylation and modifications of histone proteins and is essential for normal physiologic functions, especially for controlling gene expression. Epigenetic dysregulation plays a key role in disease pathogenesis and progression of some malignancies, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Epigenetic therapies, including hypomethylating agents (HMAs) and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, were developed to reprogram the epigenetic abnormalities in AML. However, the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic effects of the two agents alone or their combination remain unknown. An overview of these epigenetic therapies is given here. A literature search was conducted through PubMed database, looking for important biological or clinical studies related to the epigenetic regimens in the treatment of AML until October 15th, 2019. Various types of articles, including original research and reviews, were assessed, identified, and eventually summarized as a collection of data pertaining the mechanisms and clinical effects of HMAs and HDAC inhibitors in AML patients. We provided here an overview of the current understanding of the mechanisms and clinical therapeutic effects involved in the treatment with HMAs and HDAC inhibitors alone, the combination of epigenetic therapies with intensive chemotherapy, and the combination of both types of epigenetic therapies. Relevant clinical trials were also discussed. Generally speaking, the large number of studies and their varied outcomes demonstrate that effects of epigenetic therapies are heterogeneous, and that HMAs combination regimens probably contribute to significant response rates. However, more research is needed to explore therapeutic effects of HDAC inhibitors and various combinations of HMAs and HDAC inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Yu Xu
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim 68169, Germany
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
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22
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Buisman SC, de Haan G. Epigenetic Changes as a Target in Aging Haematopoietic Stem Cells and Age-Related Malignancies. Cells 2019; 8:E868. [PMID: 31405121 PMCID: PMC6721661 DOI: 10.3390/cells8080868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with multiple molecular and functional changes in haematopoietic cells. Most notably, the self-renewal and differentiation potential of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are compromised, resulting in myeloid skewing, reduced output of red blood cells and decreased generation of immune cells. These changes result in anaemia, increased susceptibility for infections and higher prevalence of haematopoietic malignancies. In HSCs, age-associated global epigenetic changes have been identified. These epigenetic alterations in aged HSCs can occur randomly (epigenetic drift) or are the result of somatic mutations in genes encoding for epigenetic proteins. Mutations in loci that encode epigenetic modifiers occur frequently in patients with haematological malignancies, but also in healthy elderly individuals at risk to develop these. It may be possible to pharmacologically intervene in the aberrant epigenetic program of derailed HSCs to enforce normal haematopoiesis or treat age-related haematopoietic diseases. Over the past decade our molecular understanding of epigenetic regulation has rapidly increased and drugs targeting epigenetic modifications are increasingly part of treatment protocols. The reversibility of epigenetic modifications renders these targets for novel therapeutics. In this review we provide an overview of epigenetic changes that occur in aging HSCs and age-related malignancies and discuss related epigenetic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja C Buisman
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Gerald de Haan
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 Groningen, The Netherlands
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23
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Zeidan AM, Shallis RM, Wang R, Davidoff A, Ma X. Epidemiology of myelodysplastic syndromes: Why characterizing the beast is a prerequisite to taming it. Blood Rev 2019; 34:1-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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24
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Bewersdorf JP, Stahl M, Zeidan AM. Are we witnessing the start of a therapeutic revolution in acute myeloid leukemia? Leuk Lymphoma 2019; 60:1354-1369. [DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2018.1546854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Maximilian Stahl
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amer M. Zeidan
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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25
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Bewersdorf JP, Shallis R, Stahl M, Zeidan AM. Epigenetic therapy combinations in acute myeloid leukemia: what are the options? Ther Adv Hematol 2019; 10:2040620718816698. [PMID: 30719265 PMCID: PMC6348528 DOI: 10.1177/2040620718816698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics refers to the regulation of gene expression mainly by changes in DNA methylation and modifications of histone proteins without altering the actual DNA sequence. While epigenetic modifications are essential for normal cell differentiation, several driver mutations in leukemic pathogenesis have been identified in genes that affect epigenetic processes, such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation. Several therapeutic options to target epigenetic alterations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have been successfully tested in preclinical studies and various drugs have already been approved for use in clinical practice. Among these already approved therapeutics are hypomethylating agents (azacitidine and decitabine) and isocitrate dehydrogenase inhibitors (ivosidenib, enasidenib). Other agents such as bromodomain-containing epigenetic reader proteins and histone methylation (e.g. DOT1L) inhibitors are currently in advanced clinical testing. As several epigenetic therapies have only limited efficacy when used as single agents, combination therapies that target AML pathogenesis at different levels and exploit synergistic mechanisms are also in clinical trials. Combinations of either epigenetic therapies with conventional chemotherapy, different forms of epigenetic therapies, or epigenetic therapies with immunotherapy are showing promising early results. In this review we summarize the underlying pathophysiology and rationale for epigenetically-based combination therapies, review current preclinical and clinical data and discuss the future directions of epigenetic therapy combinations in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rory Shallis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Maximilian Stahl
- Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amer M Zeidan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, PO Box 208028, New Haven, CT 06520-8055, USA
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Shallis RM, Chokr N, Stahl M, Pine AB, Zeidan AM. Immunosuppressive therapy in myelodysplastic syndromes: a borrowed therapy in search of the right place. Expert Rev Hematol 2018; 11:715-726. [PMID: 30024293 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2018.1503049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) encompass a heterogenous collection of clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders defined by dysregulated hematopoiesis, peripheral cytopenias, and a risk of leukemic progression. Increasing data support the role of innate and adaptive immune pathways in the pathogenesis and disease course of MDS. The role of immunosuppressive therapy has an established role in the treatment of other hematologic diseases, such as aplastic anemia whose pathogenesis is postulated to reflect that of MDS with regards to many aspects of immune activation. Areas covered: This paper discusses the current understanding of immune dysregulation as it pertains to MDS, the clinical experience with immunosuppressive therapy in the management of MDS, as well as future prospects which will likely improve therapeutic options and outcomes for patients with MDS. Expert commentary: Though limited by paucity of high quality data, immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive therapies for the treatment of MDS have shown meaningful clinical activity in selected patients. Continued clarification of the immune pathways that are dysregulated in MDS and establishing predictors for clinical benefit of immunosuppressive therapy are vital to improve the use and outcomes with these therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory M Shallis
- a Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , USA
| | - Nora Chokr
- a Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , USA
| | - Maximilian Stahl
- a Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , USA
| | - Alexander B Pine
- a Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , USA
| | - Amer M Zeidan
- a Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , USA.,b Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center , Yale University , New Haven , USA
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