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Silva-Hurtado TJ, Inocencio JF, Yong RL. Emerging applications of hypomethylating agents in the treatment of glioblastoma (Review). Mol Clin Oncol 2024; 21:59. [PMID: 39006906 PMCID: PMC11240870 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2024.2757] [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: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA hypomethylating agents (HMAs) such as decitabine and 5-azacytidine have established roles in the treatment paradigms for myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myelogenous leukemia, where they are considered to exert their anticancer effects by restoring the expression of tumor suppressor genes. Due to their relatively favorable adverse effect profile and known ability to pass through the blood-brain barrier, applications in the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM) and other central nervous system malignancies are under active investigation. The present review examines the types of HMAs currently available, their known and less-understood antineoplastic mechanisms, and the evidence to date of their preclinical and clinical efficacy in glioblastoma and other solid malignancies. The present review discusses the potential synergies HMAs may have with established and emerging GBM treatments, including temozolomide, immune checkpoint inhibitors and cancer vaccines. Recent successes and setbacks in clinical trials for newly diagnosed and recurrent GBM are summarized in order to highlight opportunities for HMAs to improve therapeutic responses. Challenges for future clinical trials are also assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thenzing J. Silva-Hurtado
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Julio F. Inocencio
- Leo M. Davidoff Department of Neurosurgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Raymund L. Yong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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2
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Lai J, Liang J, Zhang Y, Zhang B, Wei J, Fan J, Chen L, Chen Z, Li Q, Guo D, Lin J, Chen Q. A drug-delivery depot for epigenetic modulation and enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115687. [PMID: 37837882 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115687] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTis) have found widespread application in the management of cancer. Zebularine (Zeb), functioning as a demethylating agent, has exhibited notable advantages and enhanced therapeutic efficacy in the realm of tumour immunotherapy. Nevertheless, due to its lack of targeted functionality, standalone Zeb therapy necessitates the administration of a substantially higher dosage. In this investigation, we have devised an innovative nanodrug formulation, comprising the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor Zeb and pH-responsive chitosan (CS), hereinafter referred to as CS-Zeb nanoparticles (NPs). Our findings have unveiled that CS-Zeb NPs manifest heightened drug release within an acidic milieu (pH 5.5) in comparison to a neutral environment (pH 7.4). Furthermore, in vivo studies have conclusively affirmed that, in contrast to equivalent quantities of Zeb in isolation, the nanocomplex significantly curtailed tumour burden and protracted the survival duration of the B16F10 tumour-bearing murine model. Additionally, CS-Zeb NPs elicited an augmentation of CD8+ T cells within the peripheral circulation of mice and tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Notably, the dosage of CS-Zeb NPs was reduced by a remarkable 70-fold when juxtaposed with Zeb administered in isolation. To summarise, our study underscores the potential of CS-Zeb NPs as an alternative chemotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junzhong Lai
- The Cancer Center, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, PR China
| | - Jiadi Liang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, PR China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, PR China
| | - Bingchen Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523058, PR China
| | - Jianhui Wei
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, PR China
| | - Jiqiang Fan
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, PR China
| | - Linqin Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, PR China
| | - Zhirong Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, PR China
| | - Qiumei Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, PR China
| | - Dong Guo
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, PR China
| | - Jizhen Lin
- The Cancer Center, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, PR China.
| | - Qi Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, PR China.
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Joshi G, Basu A. Epigenetic control of cell signalling in cancer stem cells. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 383:67-88. [PMID: 38359971 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The self-renewing cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent one of the distinct cell populations occurring in a tumour that can differentiate into multiple lineages. This group of sparsely abundant cells play a vital role in tumour survival and resistance to different treatments during cancer. The lack of exclusive markers associated with CSCs makes diagnosis and prognosis in cancer patients extremely difficult. This calls for the identification of unique regulators and markers for CSCs. Various signalling pathways like the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, Hedgehog pathway, Notch pathway, and TGFβ/BMP play a major role in the regulation and maintenance of CSCs. Epigenetic regulatory mechanisms add another layer of complexity to control these signalling pathways. In this chapter, we discuss about the role of epigenetic mechanisms in regulating the cellular signalling pathways in CSCs. The epigenetic regulatory mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modification and microRNAs can modulate the diverse effectors of signalling pathways and consequently the growth, differentiation and tumorigenicity of CSCs. In the end, we briefly discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting these epigenetic regulators and their target genes in CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Joshi
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany.
| | - Amitava Basu
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany.
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Hoffmann F, Franzen A, de Vos L, Wuest L, Kulcsár Z, Fietz S, Maas AP, Hollick S, Diop MY, Gabrielpillai J, Vogt T, Kuster P, Zarbl R, Dietrich J, Kristiansen G, Brossart P, Landsberg J, Strieth S, Dietrich D. CTLA4 DNA methylation is associated with CTLA-4 expression and predicts response to immunotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:112. [PMID: 37415208 PMCID: PMC10327338 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01525-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of patients with recurrent or metastasized head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) do not benefit from immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) while several patients experience severe and persistent immune-mediated side effects. Therefore, predictive biomarkers are urgently needed to allow for a personalized treatment. In this study, we investigated DNA methylation of the immune checkpoint gene CTLA4 with regard to its predictive value. METHODS We analyzed CTLA4 promoter methylation in tumors of HNSCC patients (N = 29) treated with ICB at the University Medical Center Bonn with regard to response to ICB and progression-free survival. We further analyzed a second cohort (N = 138) of patients that did not receive ICB with regard to CTLA4 promoter methylation, CTLA-4 protein expression, and immune cell infiltrates. Finally, we tested inducibility of CTLA-4 protein expression in HNSCC cells using the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor decitabine. RESULTS Lower CTLA4 promoter methylation correlated with response to ICB and prolonged progression-free survival. We could show that not only tumor infiltrating immune cells, but also HNSCC cells harbor cytoplasmic and nuclear CTLA-4 expression. CTLA4 promoter methylation inversely correlated with infiltrates of CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD45+ immune cells. CTLA4 methylation did not correlate with protein expression in tumors, however, decitabine treatment led to decreased CTLA4 methylation and an induction of CTLA4 mRNA and CTLA-4 protein expression in HNSCC cell lines. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that CTLA4 DNA hypomethylation is a predictive biomarker for response to ICB in HNSCC. Our study warrants further analyses of the predictive value of CTLA4 DNA methylation in clinical trials of anti-PD-1 and/or anti-CTLA-4 immunotherapy in HNSCC.
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Grants
- 70113307 Deutsche Krebshilfe
- 2022-1A-08, 2020-1A-13, 2020-2A-06, 2022-4-18, 2023-4-06 University Medical Center Bonn BONFOR program
- 2022-1A-08, 2020-1A-13, 2020-2A-06, 2022-4-18, 2023-4-06 University Medical Center Bonn BONFOR program
- 2022-1A-08, 2020-1A-13, 2020-2A-06, 2022-4-18, 2023-4-06 University Medical Center Bonn BONFOR program
- 2022-1A-08, 2020-1A-13, 2020-2A-06, 2022-4-18, 2023-4-06 University Medical Center Bonn BONFOR program
- 2022-1A-08, 2020-1A-13, 2020-2A-06, 2022-4-18, 2023-4-06 University Medical Center Bonn BONFOR program
- Universitätsklinikum Bonn (8930)
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Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Hoffmann
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Medical Center Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alina Franzen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Luka de Vos
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Medical Center Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lennert Wuest
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Zsófi Kulcsár
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Simon Fietz
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Medical Center Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexander Philippe Maas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sarah Hollick
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marie Yatou Diop
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jennis Gabrielpillai
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Timo Vogt
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Pia Kuster
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Medical Center Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Romina Zarbl
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Joern Dietrich
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Glen Kristiansen
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Peter Brossart
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Rheumatology, University Medical Center Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jennifer Landsberg
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Medical Center Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sebastian Strieth
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dimo Dietrich
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
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Hsu SK, Chen YE, Shu ED, Ko CC, Chang WT, Lin IL, Li CY, Gallego RP, Chiu CC. The Pyroptotic and Nonpyroptotic Roles of Gasdermins in Modulating Cancer Progression and Their Perspectives on Cancer Therapeutics. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2023; 71:14. [PMID: 37258998 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-023-00678-9] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Gasdermins (GSDMs) are a protein family encoded by six paralogous genes in humans, including GSDMA, GSDMB, GSDMC, GSDMD, GSDME (also known as DFNA5), and DFNB59 (also known as pejvakin). Structurally, members of the GSDM family possess a C-terminus (an autoinhibitory domain) and a positively charged N-terminus (a pore-forming domain) linked with divergent peptide linkers. Recently, GSDMs have been identified as key executors of pyroptosis (an immunogenic programmed cell death) due to their pore-forming activities on the plasma membrane when proteolytically cleaved by caspases or serine proteases. Accumulating studies suggest that chemoresistance is attributed to dysregulation of apoptotic machinery and that inducing pyroptosis to bypass aberrant apoptosis can potently resensitize apoptosis-resistant cancer to chemotherapeutics. Pyroptosis is initiated by pore formation and culminates with plasma membrane rupture; these processes enable the release of proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-1β and IL-18) and damage-associated molecular patterns, which further modulate antitumor immunity within the tumor microenvironment. Although pyroptosis is considered a promising strategy to boost antitumor effects, it is also reported to cause unwanted tissue damage (e.g., gut damage and nephrotoxicity). Intriguingly, mounting evidence has uncovered nonpyroptotic roles of GSDMs in tumorigenesis, such as proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. Thus, this provides a rationale for GSDMs as potential therapeutic targets. Taken together, we shed unbiased light on the pyroptosis-dependent roles of GSDMs in cancer progression and highlighted how GSDMs modulate tumorigenesis in a pyroptosis-independent manner. It is evident that targeting GSDMs seems profound in cancer management; however, several problems require further investigation to target GSDMs from bench to bedside, which is elucidated in the discussion section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Kai Hsu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Yi-En Chen
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - En-De Shu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chung Ko
- Department of Medical Imaging, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, 710, Taiwan
- Department of Health and Nutrition, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Tsan Chang
- Division of General and Digestive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - I-Ling Lin
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yang Li
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan
| | - Rovelyn P Gallego
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environment Biology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chih Chiu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, 804, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
- National Laboratory Animal Center, National Applied Research Laboratories, Taipei, 115, Taiwan.
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Wu W, Jing Y, Xu Q, Hao J, Yu X. MiR-9 promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of bladder cancer cells via notch signaling pathway. Panminerva Med 2023; 65:114-115. [PMID: 31992035 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.19.03818-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wenying Wu
- Interventional Operating Room, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuchen Jing
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Interventional Operating Room, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jia Hao
- Interventional Operating Room, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xue Yu
- Department of Pain Treatment, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China -
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Alexandraki A, Strati K. Decitabine Treatment Induces a Viral Mimicry Response in Cervical Cancer Cells and Further Sensitizes Cells to Chemotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214042. [PMID: 36430521 PMCID: PMC9692951 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the anti-cancer, chemosensitizing and/or immunomodulating effects of decitabine (DAC) to be used as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cervical cancer (CC). METHODS Cervical cancer cell lines were treated with low doses of DAC treatment used as a single agent or in combination with chemotherapy. End-point in vitro assays were developed as indicators of the anti-cancer and/or immunomodulating effects of DAC treatment in CC cells. These assays include cell viability, cell cycle analysis, apoptosis, induction of a viral-mimicry response pathway, expression of MHC-class I and PD-L1 and chemosensitivity. RESULTS High and low doses of DAC treatment induced reduction in cell viability in HeLa (HPV18+), CaSki (HPV16+) and C33A (HPV-) cells. Specifically, a time-dependent reduction in cell viability of HeLa and CaSki cells was observed accompanied by robust cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase and alterations in the cell cycle distribution. Decrease in cell viability was also observed in a non-transformed immortal keratinocyte (HaCat) suggesting a non-cancer specific target effect. DAC treatment also triggered a viral mimicry response through long-term induction of cytoplasmic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and activation of downstream IFN-related genes in both HPV+ and HPV- cells. In addition, DAC treatment increased the number of CC cells expressing MHC-class I and PD-L1. Furthermore, DAC significantly increased the proportion of early and late apoptotic CC cells quantified using FACS. Our combination treatments showed that low dose DAC treatment sensitizes cells to chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS Low doses of DAC treatment promotes robust induction of a viral mimicry response, immunomodulating and chemosensitizing effects in CC, indicating its promising therapeutic role in CC in vitro.
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Upadhyay P, Beales J, Shah NM, Gruszczynska A, Miller CA, Petti AA, Ramakrishnan SM, Link DC, Ley TJ, Welch JS. Recurrent transcriptional responses in AML and MDS patients treated with decitabine. Exp Hematol 2022; 111:50-65. [PMID: 35429619 PMCID: PMC9833843 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The molecular events responsible for decitabine responses in myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia patients are poorly understood. Decitabine has a short serum half-life and limited stability in tissue culture. Therefore, theoretical pharmacologic differences may exist between patient molecular changes in vitro and the consequences of in vivo treatment. To systematically identify the global genomic and transcriptomic alterations induced by decitabine in vivo, we evaluated primary bone marrow samples that were collected during patient treatment and applied whole-genome bisulfite sequencing, RNA-sequencing, and single-cell RNA sequencing. Decitabine induced global, reversible hypomethylation after 10 days of therapy in all patients, which was associated with induction of interferon-induced pathways, the expression of endogenous retroviral elements, and inhibition of erythroid-related transcripts, recapitulating many effects seen previously in in vitro studies. However, at relapse after decitabine treatment, interferon-induced transcripts remained elevated relative to day 0, but erythroid-related transcripts now were more highly expressed than at day 0. Clinical responses were not correlated with epigenetic or transcriptional signatures, although sample size and interpatient variance restricted the statistical power required for capturing smaller effects. Collectively, these data define global hypomethylation by decitabine and find that erythroid-related pathways may be relevant because they are inhibited by therapy and reverse at relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawan Upadhyay
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Jeremy Beales
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Nakul M. Shah
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Agata Gruszczynska
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Christopher A. Miller
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Allegra A. Petti
- Department of Neuro-logical Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Sai Mukund Ramakrishnan
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Daniel C. Link
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Timothy J. Ley
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - John S. Welch
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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9
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Epigenetic insights in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection in CRC, an updated review. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:10013-10022. [PMID: 35727475 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07569-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM The gradual accumulation of genetic and epigenetic alterations can lead to the development of colorectal cancer. In the last decade much research has been done to discover how methylation as an epigenetic alteration leads to carcinogenesis. While Methylation is a biological process, it can influence gene expression by affecting the promoter activity. This article reviews the role of methylation in critical pathways in CRC. METHODS In this study using appropriate keywords, all research and review articles related to the role of methylation on different cancers were collected and analyzed. Also, existing information on methylation detection methods and therapeutic sensitivity or resistance due to DNA methylation were reviewed. RESULTS The results of this survey revealed that while Methylation is a biological process, it can influence gene expression by affecting the promoter activity. Promoter methylation is associated with up or downregulation of genes involved in critical pathways, including cell cycle, DNA repair, and cell adherence. Hence promoter methylation can be used as a molecular tool for early diagnosis, improving treatment, and predicting treatment resistance. CONCLUSION Current knowledge on potential methylation biomarkers for diagnosis and prognoses of CRC has also been discussed. Our survey proposes that a multi-biomarker panel is more efficient than a single biomarker in the early diagnosis of CRC.
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Sun Z, Wang X, Vedell P, Kocher J. DNA methylation signature predicts cancer response to demethylation agents from profiling diverse cancer cell lines. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 42:789-792. [PMID: 35716010 PMCID: PMC9395315 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhifu Sun
- Division of Computational BiologyDepartment of Quantitative Health SciencesMayo ClinicRochesterMN55905USA
| | - Xuewei Wang
- Division of Computational BiologyDepartment of Quantitative Health SciencesMayo ClinicRochesterMN55905USA
| | - Pete Vedell
- Division of Computational BiologyDepartment of Quantitative Health SciencesMayo ClinicRochesterMN55905USA
| | - Jean‐Pierre Kocher
- Division of Computational BiologyDepartment of Quantitative Health SciencesMayo ClinicRochesterMN55905USA
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11
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Meghani K, Folgosa Cooley L, Piunti A, Meeks JJ. Role of Chromatin Modifying Complexes and Therapeutic Opportunities in Bladder Cancer. Bladder Cancer 2022; 8:101-112. [PMID: 35898580 PMCID: PMC9278011 DOI: 10.3233/blc-211609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chromatin modifying enzymes, mainly through post translational modifications, regulate chromatin architecture and by extension the underlying transcriptional kinetics in normal and malignant cells. Muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) has a high frequency of alterations in chromatin modifiers, with 76% of tumors exhibiting mutation in at least one chromatin modifying enzyme [1]. Additionally, clonal expansion of cells with inactivating mutations in chromatin modifiers has been identified in the normal urothelium, pointing to a currently unknown role of these proteins in normal bladder homeostasis. OBJECTIVE To review current knowledge of chromatin modifications and enzymes regulating these processes in Bladder cancer (BCa). METHODS By reviewing current literature, we summarize our present knowledge of external stimuli that trigger loss of equilibrium in the chromatin accessibility landscape and emerging therapeutic interventions for targeting these processes. RESULTS Genetic lesions in BCa lead to altered function of chromatin modifying enzymes, resulting in coordinated dysregulation of epigenetic processes with disease progression. CONCLUSION Mutations in chromatin modifying enzymes are wide-spread in BCa and several promising therapeutic targets for modulating activity of these genes are currently in clinical trials. Further research into understanding how the epigenetic landscape evolves as the disease progresses, could help identify patients who might benefit the most from these targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khyati Meghani
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lauren Folgosa Cooley
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Andrea Piunti
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joshua J. Meeks
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago IL, USA
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12
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Alderuccio JP, Lossos IS. NOTCH signaling in the pathogenesis of splenic marginal zone lymphoma-opportunities for therapy. Leuk Lymphoma 2021; 63:279-290. [PMID: 34586000 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2021.1984452] [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: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
NOTCH signaling is a highly conserved pathway mediated by four receptors (NOTCH 1-4) playing critical functions in proliferation, differentiation, and cell death. Under physiologic circumstances, NOTCH2 is a key regulator in marginal zone differentiation and development. Over the last decade, growing data demonstrated frequent NOTCH2 mutations in splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) underscoring its critical role in the pathogenesis of this disease. Moreover, NOTCH2 specificity across studies supports the rationale to assess its value as a diagnosis biomarker in a disease without pathognomonic features. These data make NOTCH signaling an appealing target for drug discovery in SMZL; however, prior efforts attempting to manipulate this pathway failed to demonstrate meaningful clinical benefit, or their safety profile prevented further development. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of NOTCH implications in the pathogenesis and as a potential druggable target in SMZL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Alderuccio
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Izidore S Lossos
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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13
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Lodewijk I, Nunes SP, Henrique R, Jerónimo C, Dueñas M, Paramio JM. Tackling tumor microenvironment through epigenetic tools to improve cancer immunotherapy. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:63. [PMID: 33761971 PMCID: PMC7992805 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01046-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic alterations are known contributors to cancer development and aggressiveness. Additional to alterations in cancer cells, aberrant epigenetic marks are present in cells of the tumor microenvironment, including lymphocytes and tumor-associated macrophages, which are often overlooked but known to be a contributing factor to a favorable environment for tumor growth. Therefore, the main aim of this review is to give an overview of the epigenetic alterations affecting immune cells in the tumor microenvironment to provoke an immunosuppressive function and contribute to cancer development. Moreover, immunotherapy is briefly discussed in the context of epigenetics, describing both its combination with epigenetic drugs and the need for epigenetic biomarkers to predict response to immune checkpoint blockage. MAIN BODY Combining both topics, epigenetic machinery plays a central role in generating an immunosuppressive environment for cancer growth, which creates a barrier for immunotherapy to be successful. Furthermore, epigenetic-directed compounds may not only affect cancer cells but also immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, which could be beneficial for the clinical response to immunotherapy. CONCLUSION Thus, modulating epigenetics in combination with immunotherapy might be a promising therapeutic option to improve the success of this therapy. Further studies are necessary to (1) understand in depth the impact of the epigenetic machinery in the tumor microenvironment; (2) how the epigenetic machinery can be modulated according to tumor type to increase response to immunotherapy and (3) find reliable biomarkers for a better selection of patients eligible to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Lodewijk
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales Y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute I+12, University Hospital “12 de Octubre”, 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra P. Nunes
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales Y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute I+12, University Hospital “12 de Octubre”, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group – Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (CI-IPOP), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group – Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (CI-IPOP), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar – University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group – Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (CI-IPOP), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar – University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Dueñas
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales Y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute I+12, University Hospital “12 de Octubre”, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús M. Paramio
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales Y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute I+12, University Hospital “12 de Octubre”, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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14
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Zolghadr F, Bakhshinejad B, Davuchbabny S, Sarrafpour B, Seyedasli N. Critical regulatory levels in tumor differentiation: Signaling pathways, epigenetics and non-coding transcripts. Bioessays 2021; 43:e2000190. [PMID: 33644880 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202000190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Approaches to induce tumor differentiation often result in manageable and therapy-naïve cellular states in cancer cells. This transformation is achieved by activating pathways that drive tumor cells away from plasticity, a state that commonly correlates with enhanced aggression, metastasis and resistance to therapy. Here, we discuss signaling pathways, epigenetics and non-coding RNAs as three main regulatory levels with the potential to drive tumor differentiation and hence as potential targets in differentiation therapy approaches. The success of an effective therapeutic regimen in one cancer, however, does not necessarily sustain across cancer types; a phenomenon largely resulting from heterogeneity in the genetic and physiological landscapes of tumor types necessitating an approach designed for each cancer's unique genetic and phenotypic build-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Zolghadr
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Babak Bakhshinejad
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sapir Davuchbabny
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Babak Sarrafpour
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Naisana Seyedasli
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia.,The Centre for Cancer Research, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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15
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Lai J, Fu Y, Tian S, Huang S, Luo X, Lin L, Zhang X, Wang H, Lin Z, Zhao H, Lin S, Zhao J, Xu S, Li D, Cai S, Dong L, Qian J, Liang J, Li Q, Zhang Y, Fan J, Balderas R, Chen Q. Zebularine elevates STING expression and enhances cGAMP cancer immunotherapy in mice. Mol Ther 2021; 29:1758-1771. [PMID: 33571681 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation abnormality is closely related to tumor occurrence and development. Chemical inhibitors targeting DNA methyltransferase (DNMTis) have been used in treating cancer. However, the impact of DNMTis on antitumor immunity has not been well elucidated. In this study, we show that zebularine (a demethylating agent) treatment of cancer cells led to increased levels of interferon response in a cyclic guanosine monophosphate-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS)- and stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-dependent manner. This treatment also specifically sensitized the cGAS-STING pathway in response to DNA stimulation. Incorporation of zebularine into genomic DNA caused demethylation and elevated expression of a group of genes, including STING. Without causing DNA damage, zebularine led to accumulation of DNA species in the cytoplasm of treated cells. In syngeneic tumor models, administration of zebularine alone reduced tumor burden and extended mice survival. This effect synergized with cGAMP and immune checkpoint blockade therapy. The efficacy of zebularine was abolished in nude mice and in cGAS-/- or STING-/- mice, indicating its dependency on host immunity. Analysis of tumor cells indicates upregulation of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) following zebularine administration. Zebularine promoted infiltration of CD8 T cells and natural killer (NK) cells into tumor and therefore suppressed tumor growth. This study unveils the role of zebularine in sensitizing the cGAS-STING pathway to promote anti-tumor immunity and provides the foundation for further therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junzhong Lai
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China; The Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Yajuan Fu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shuoran Tian
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shanlu Huang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Xuan Luo
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Lili Lin
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Hanze Wang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Zhang Lin
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Heng Zhao
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shujin Lin
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Junhong Zhao
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shan Xu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Daliang Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shaoli Cai
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Luna Dong
- BD Biosciences Shanghai, New Bund World Trade Center III, Building B, No. 11, Lane 221, Dongyu Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 200126, China
| | - Jing Qian
- BD Biosciences Shanghai, New Bund World Trade Center III, Building B, No. 11, Lane 221, Dongyu Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 200126, China
| | - Jiadi Liang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Qiumei Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Jiqiang Fan
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | | | - Qi Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China; Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, China.
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16
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Targeting Germ Cell Tumors with the Newly Synthesized Flavanone-Derived Compound MLo1302 Efficiently Reduces Tumor Cell Viability and Induces Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13010073. [PMID: 33430420 PMCID: PMC7826804 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13010073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Less toxic treatment strategies for testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) patients are needed, as overtreatment is a concern due to the long-term side effects of platin-based chemotherapy. Although clinical benefit from classical hypomethylating agents has to date been limited, TGCTs show an abnormal DNA methylome indicating the potential of treating TGCTs with hypomethylating drugs. We tested, for the first time in TGCT cell lines, a new synthetic flavonoid compound (MLo1302) from the 3-nitroflavanone family of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors. We show that MLo1302 reduces cell viability (including of cisplatin resistant cell line NCCIT-R), with IC50s (inhibitory concentration 50) within the nanomolar range for NCCIT and NTERA-2 cells, and proved its cytotoxic effect. Exposure to MLo1302 reduced DNMT protein expression, similar to decitabine, and showed a partial effect in cell differentiation, reducing protein expression of pluripotency markers. RT2 profiler expression array indicated several dysregulated targets, related to activation of apoptosis, differentiation, and cell cycle arrest. We validated these data by showing increased apoptosis, increased protein expression of cleaved caspase 8 and activated caspase 2, and reduced proliferation (BrdU assay), with increase in CDKN1A and decrease in MIB-1 expression. Therefore, synthetic drugs designed to target DNA methylation in cells may uncover effective treatments for TGCT patients.
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17
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West-Livingston LN, Park J, Lee SJ, Atala A, Yoo JJ. The Role of the Microenvironment in Controlling the Fate of Bioprinted Stem Cells. Chem Rev 2020; 120:11056-11092. [PMID: 32558555 PMCID: PMC7676498 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine has made numerous advances in recent years in the arena of fabricating multifunctional, three-dimensional (3D) tissue constructs. This can be attributed to novel approaches in the bioprinting of stem cells. There are expansive options in bioprinting technology that have become more refined and specialized over the years, and stem cells address many limitations in cell source, expansion, and development of bioengineered tissue constructs. While bioprinted stem cells present an opportunity to replicate physiological microenvironments with precision, the future of this practice relies heavily on the optimization of the cellular microenvironment. To fabricate tissue constructs that are useful in replicating physiological conditions in laboratory settings, or in preparation for transplantation to a living host, the microenvironment must mimic conditions that allow bioprinted stem cells to proliferate, differentiate, and migrate. The advances of bioprinting stem cells and directing cell fate have the potential to provide feasible and translatable approach to creating complex tissues and organs. This review will examine the methods through which bioprinted stem cells are differentiated into desired cell lineages through biochemical, biological, and biomechanical techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren N. West-Livingston
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States
| | - Jihoon Park
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States
| | - Sang Jin Lee
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States
| | - James J. Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States
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18
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An X, Lin X, Yang A, Jiang Q, Geng B, Huang M, Lu J, Xiang Z, Yuan Z, Wang S, Shi Y, Zhu H. Cavin3 Suppresses Breast Cancer Metastasis via Inhibiting AKT Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:01228. [PMID: 33101009 PMCID: PMC7556234 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Cavin3 is a putative tumor suppressor protein. However, its molecular action on tumor regulation is largely unknown. The aim of the current study is to explore the implication of cavin3 alteration, its clinical significance, and any potential molecular mechanisms in the regulation of breast cancer (BC). Methods TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) and GTEx (Genotype-Tissue Expression) data bases, and 17 freshly paired BC and adjacent normal tissues were analyzed for mRNA levels of Cavin3. Furthermore, cavin3 protein expression from 407 primary BC samples were assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and measured by H-score. The clinical significance of cavin3 expression was explored by Kaplan-Meier analysis and the Cox regression method. In vitro biological assays were performed to elucidate the function and underlying mechanisms of cavin 3 in BC cell lines. Results Cavin3 mRNA was dramatically down-regulated in BC compared with the negative control. The median H-score of cavin3 protein by IHC was 50 (range 0-270). There were 232 (57%) and 175 (43%) cases scored as low (H-score≤50) and high (H-score >50) levels of cavin3, respectively. Low cavin3 was correlated with a higher T and N stage, and worse distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) and overall survival (OS). Multivariate survival analysis revealed low cavin3 was an independent fact for worse DMFS. In BC cells, an overexpression of cavin3 could inhibit cell migration and invasion, and significantly decreased the level of p-Akt. Knockout of cavin3, meanwhile, promoted cell invasion ability and increased the level of p-AKT. Conclusion Cavin3 expression is significantly lower in BC and is correlated with distant metastasis and worse survival. Cavin3 functions as a metastasis suppressor via inhibiting the AKT pathway, suggesting cavin3 as a potential prognostic biomarker and a target for BC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin An
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Xi Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Departments of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Anli Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Breast Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiwei Jiang
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Bingchuan Geng
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Mayan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Pathology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiabin Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Pathology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhicheng Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhongyu Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shusen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanxia Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
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19
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DNA Methylation as a Therapeutic Target for Bladder Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081850. [PMID: 32784599 PMCID: PMC7463638 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is the tenth most frequent cancer worldwide and is associated with high mortality when diagnosed in its most aggressive form, which is not reverted by the current treatment options. Thus, the development of new therapeutic strategies, either alternative or complementary to the current ones, is of major importance. The disruption of normal epigenetic mechanisms, namely, DNA methylation, is a known early event in cancer development. Consequently, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors constitute a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of BC. Although these inhibitors, mainly nucleoside analogues such as 5-azacytidine (5-aza) and decitabine (DAC), cause re-expression of tumor suppressor genes, inhibition of tumor cell growth, and increased apoptosis in BC experimental models and clinical trials, they also show important drawbacks that prevent their use as a valuable option for the treatment of BC. However, their combination with chemotherapy and/or immune-checkpoint inhibitors could aid in their implementation in the clinical practice. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the studies exploring the effects of DNA methylation inhibition using DNMTs inhibitors in BC, from in vitro and in vivo studies to clinical trials.
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20
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Lobo J, Jerónimo C, Henrique R. Targeting the Immune system and Epigenetic Landscape of Urological Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E829. [PMID: 32012885 PMCID: PMC7037817 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last years, we have witnessed remarkable advances in targeted therapies for cancer patients. There is a growing effort to either replace or reduce the dose of unspecific, systemic (chemo)therapies, given the associated short- and long-term side effects, by introducing more specific targeted therapies as single or combination agents. Due to the well-known implications of the immune system and epigenetic landscape in modulating cancer development, both have been explored as potential targets in several malignancies, including those affecting the genitourinary tract. As the immune system function is also epigenetically regulated, there is rationale for combining both strategies. However, this is still rather underexplored, namely in urological tumors. We aim to briefly review the use of immune therapies in prostate, kidney, bladder, and testicular cancer, and further describe studies providing supporting evidence on their combination with epigenetic-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lobo
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (GEBC CI-IPOP) and Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (GEBC CI-IPOP) and Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (GEBC CI-IPOP) and Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
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21
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Pastuch-Gawołek G, Gillner D, Król E, Walczak K, Wandzik I. Selected nucleos(t)ide-based prescribed drugs and their multi-target activity. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 865:172747. [PMID: 31634460 PMCID: PMC7173238 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.172747] [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: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nucleos(t)ide analogues play pivotal roles as antiviral, cytotoxic or immunosuppressive agents. Here, we review recent reports of nucleoside analogues that exhibit broad-spectrum activity towards multiple life-threatening RNA and DNA viruses. We also present a discussion about nucleoside antimetabolites-approved antineoplastic agents-that have recently been shown to have antiviral and/or antibacterial activity. The approved drugs and drug combinations, as well as recently identified candidates for investigation and/or experimentation, are discussed. Several examples of repurposed drugs that have already been approved for use are presented. This strategy can be crucial for the first-line treatment of acute infections or coinfections and for the management of drug-resistant strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Pastuch-Gawołek
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 4, 44-100, Gliwice, Poland; Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 8, 44-100, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Danuta Gillner
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 4, 44-100, Gliwice, Poland; Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 8, 44-100, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Ewelina Król
- Department of Recombinant Vaccines, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Abrahama 58, 80-307, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Walczak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 4, 44-100, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Ilona Wandzik
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 4, 44-100, Gliwice, Poland; Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 8, 44-100, Gliwice, Poland.
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22
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Dan H, Zhang S, Zhou Y, Guan Q. DNA Methyltransferase Inhibitors: Catalysts For Antitumour Immune Responses. Onco Targets Ther 2019; 12:10903-10916. [PMID: 31849494 PMCID: PMC6913319 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s217767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is a kind of heritable change that involves the unaltered DNA sequence and can have effects on gene expression. The regulatory mechanism mainly includes DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNA regulation. DNA methylation is currently the most studied aspect of epigenetics. It is widely present in eukaryotic cells and is the most important epigenetic mark in the regulation of gene expression in the cell. DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTi) have been increasingly recognized in the field of cancer immunotherapy, have been approved for the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and are widely being used in clinical trials of cancer immunotherapies. DNMTi promote the reactivation of tumour suppressor genes, enhance tumour immunogenicity, and stimulate a variety of immune cells to secrete cytokines that exert cytotoxic effects, promote tumour cell death, including macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells, and upregulate major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I expression levels. Here, we mainly summarize the epigenetics related to DNMTi and their regulation of the antitumour immune response and DNMTi combined with immuno-therapeutics or histone deacetylase inhibitors to demonstrate the great development potential and clinical application value of DNMTi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Dan
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Diseases, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Diseases, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongning Zhou
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Diseases, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Quanlin Guan
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Diseases, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
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23
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Bunch B, Krishnan N, Greenspan RD, Ramakrishnan S, Attwood K, Yan L, Qi Q, Wang D, Morrison C, Omilian A, Bshara W, Pili R, Trump DL, Johnson C, Woloszynska A. TAp73 expression and P1 promoter methylation, a potential marker for chemoresponsiveness to cisplatin therapy and survival in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Cell Cycle 2019; 18:2055-2066. [PMID: 31318640 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2019.1638693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrinsic and/or acquired resistance to cisplatin is a significant obstacle in the treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer. p73, a p53 homolog and determinant of chemosensitivity, is rarely mutated in bladder cancer (BC). However p73 expression and therefore function can be repressed through epigenetic changes. In this study, we sought to identify DNA methylation status of p73, expression of TAp73 isoform, and their role in cisplatin sensitivity in BC. Primary tumor samples from 338 bladder cancer patients showed decreased TAp73 expression in MIBC compared to superficial BC. Low TAp73 protein expression was associated with shorter overall survival. To investigate if the loss of expression was methylation dependent, we utilized Illumina 450K methylation arrays to interrogate over 150 BC patient samples. We found 12 distinct CpGs in the p73 gene locus that were hypermethylated in tumors compared to adjacent normal tissues. Patients with high p73 promoter methylation specifically at CpG site cg07382920 had worse survival. In vitro, treatment with a DNA demethylating agent, decitabine (DAC), decreased TAp73 methylation and upregulated expression in both CR-T24 (cisplatin resistant T24 cells) and wild type T24 cells. Furthermore, treatment with DAC increased cisplatin response in wild type T24 and CR-T24. Our studies indicate that TAp73 expression and P1 promoter methylation, specifically at the cg073892920 site, may have prognostic and diagnostic value in MIBC. In the setting of P1 promoter hypermethylation, DAC could be used as a potentiating agent of cisplatin-based chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Bunch
- a Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Nithya Krishnan
- a Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Rebecca D Greenspan
- a Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Swathi Ramakrishnan
- a Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Kristopher Attwood
- b Department of Bioinformatics and BioStatistics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Li Yan
- b Department of Bioinformatics and BioStatistics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Qianya Qi
- b Department of Bioinformatics and BioStatistics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Dan Wang
- b Department of Bioinformatics and BioStatistics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Carl Morrison
- c Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Angela Omilian
- c Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Wiam Bshara
- c Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Roberto Pili
- d Department of Medicine, Indiana University , Buffalo , USA
| | - Donald L Trump
- e Inova Schar Cancer Institute , Falls Church , VA , USA
| | - Candace Johnson
- a Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
| | - Anna Woloszynska
- a Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , Buffalo , USA
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24
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Marques-Magalhães Â, Graça I, Henrique R, Jerónimo C. Targeting DNA Methyltranferases in Urological Tumors. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:366. [PMID: 29706891 PMCID: PMC5909196 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Urological cancers are a heterogeneous group of malignancies accounting for a considerable proportion of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Aberrant epigenetic traits, especially altered DNA methylation patterns constitute a hallmark of these tumors. Nonetheless, these alterations are reversible, and several efforts have been carried out to design and test several epigenetic compounds that might reprogram tumor cell phenotype back to a normal state. Indeed, several DNMT inhibitors are currently under evaluation for therapeutic efficacy in clinical trials. This review highlights the critical role of DNA methylation in urological cancers and summarizes the available data on pre-clinical assays and clinical trials with DNMT inhibitors in bladder, kidney, prostate, and testicular germ cell cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângela Marques-Magalhães
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group - Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Graça
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group - Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group - Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group - Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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