1
|
De Munter S, Buhl JL, De Cock L, Van Parys A, Daneels W, Pascal E, Deseins L, Ingels J, Goetgeluk G, Jansen H, Billiet L, Pille M, Van Duyse J, Bonte S, Vandamme N, Van Dorpe J, Offner F, Leclercq G, Taghon T, Depla E, Tavernier J, Kerre T, Drost J, Vandekerckhove B. Knocking Out CD70 Rescues CD70-Specific NanoCAR T Cells from Antigen-Induced Exhaustion. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:1236-1251. [PMID: 38874582 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
CD70 is an attractive target for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for the treatment of both solid and liquid malignancies. However, the functionality of CD70-specific CAR T cells is modest. We optimized a CD70-specific VHH-based CAR (nanoCAR). We evaluated the nanoCARs in clinically relevant models in vitro, using co-cultures of CD70-specific nanoCAR T cells with malignant rhabdoid tumor organoids, and in vivo, using a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model. Although the nanoCAR T cells were highly efficient in organoid co-cultures, they showed only modest efficacy in the PDX model. We determined that fratricide was not causing this loss in efficacy but rather CD70 interaction in cis with the nanoCAR-induced exhaustion. Knocking out CD70 in nanoCAR T cells using CRISPR/Cas9 resulted in dramatically enhanced functionality in the diffuse large B-cell lymphoma PDX model. Through single-cell transcriptomics, we obtained evidence that CD70 knockout CD70-specific nanoCAR T cells were protected from antigen-induced exhaustion. In addition, we demonstrated that wild-type CD70-specific nanoCAR T cells already exhibited signs of exhaustion shortly after production. Their gene signature strongly overlapped with gene signatures of exhausted CAR T cells. Conversely, the gene signature of knockout CD70-specific nanoCAR T cells overlapped with the gene signature of CAR T-cell infusion products leading to complete responses in chronic lymphatic leukemia patients. Our data show that CARs targeting endogenous T-cell antigens negatively affect CAR T-cell functionality by inducing an exhausted state, which can be overcome by knocking out the specific target.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Humans
- CD27 Ligand
- Animals
- Mice
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/genetics
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/immunology
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/therapy
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/genetics
- Gene Knockout Techniques
- Cell Line, Tumor
- CRISPR-Cas Systems
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stijn De Munter
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Juliane L Buhl
- Princess Máxima Center and Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Laurenz De Cock
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Willem Daneels
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Hematology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Eva Pascal
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lucas Deseins
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joline Ingels
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Glenn Goetgeluk
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hanne Jansen
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lore Billiet
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Melissa Pille
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Julie Van Duyse
- VIB Flow Core, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sarah Bonte
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Jo Van Dorpe
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Pathology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Fritz Offner
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Hematology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Georges Leclercq
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Taghon
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | | | | | - Tessa Kerre
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Hematology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jarno Drost
- Princess Máxima Center and Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Bart Vandekerckhove
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- GMP Unit cell Therapy, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kazansky Y, Cameron D, Mueller HS, Demarest P, Zaffaroni N, Arrighetti N, Zuco V, Kuwahara Y, Somwar R, Ladanyi M, Qu R, de Stanchina E, Dela Cruz FS, Kung AL, Gounder MM, Kentsis A. Overcoming Clinical Resistance to EZH2 Inhibition Using Rational Epigenetic Combination Therapy. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:965-981. [PMID: 38315003 PMCID: PMC11147720 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-0110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic dependencies have become evident in many cancers. On the basis of antagonism between BAF/SWI-SNF and PRC2 in SMARCB1-deficient sarcomas, we recently completed the clinical trial of the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat. However, the principles of tumor response to epigenetic therapy in general, and tazemetostat in particular, remain unknown. Using functional genomics and diverse experimental models, we define molecular mechanisms of tazemetostat resistance in SMARCB1-deficient tumors. We found distinct acquired mutations that converge on the RB1/E2F axis and decouple EZH2-dependent differentiation and cell-cycle control. This allows tumor cells to escape tazemetostat-induced G1 arrest, suggests a general mechanism for effective therapy, and provides prospective biomarkers for therapy stratification, including PRICKLE1. On the basis of this, we develop a combination strategy to circumvent tazemetostat resistance using bypass targeting of AURKB. This offers a paradigm for rational epigenetic combination therapy suitable for translation to clinical trials for epithelioid sarcomas, rhabdoid tumors, and other epigenetically dysregulated cancers. SIGNIFICANCE Genomic studies of patient epithelioid sarcomas and rhabdoid tumors identify mutations converging on a common pathway for response to EZH2 inhibition. Resistance mutations decouple drug-induced differentiation from cell-cycle control. We identify an epigenetic combination strategy to overcome resistance and improve durability of response, supporting its investigation in clinical trials. See related commentary by Paolini and Souroullas, p. 903. This article is featured in Selected Articles from This Issue, p. 897.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaniv Kazansky
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Cameron
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Helen S. Mueller
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Phillip Demarest
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nadia Zaffaroni
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Noemi Arrighetti
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Zuco
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Yasumichi Kuwahara
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine
| | - Romel Somwar
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marc Ladanyi
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rui Qu
- Antitumor Assessment Core, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elisa de Stanchina
- Antitumor Assessment Core, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Filemon S. Dela Cruz
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew L. Kung
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mrinal M. Gounder
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alex Kentsis
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, Pharmacology, and Physiology & Biophysics, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Coorens THH, Spencer Chapman M, Williams N, Martincorena I, Stratton MR, Nangalia J, Campbell PJ. Reconstructing phylogenetic trees from genome-wide somatic mutations in clonal samples. Nat Protoc 2024; 19:1866-1886. [PMID: 38396041 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-024-00962-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Phylogenetic trees are a powerful means to display the evolutionary history of species, pathogens and, more recently, individual cells of the human body. Whole-genome sequencing of laser capture microdissections or expanded stem cells has allowed the discovery of somatic mutations in clones, which can be used as natural barcodes to reconstruct the developmental history of individual cells. Here we describe Sequoia, our pipeline to reconstruct lineage trees from clones of normal cells. Candidate somatic mutations are called against the human reference genome and filtered to exclude germline mutations and artifactual variants. These filtered somatic mutations form the basis for phylogeny reconstruction using a maximum parsimony framework. Lastly, we use a maximum likelihood framework to explicitly map mutations to branches in the phylogenetic tree. The resulting phylogenies can then serve as a basis for many subsequent analyses, including investigating embryonic development, tissue dynamics in health and disease, and mutational signatures. Sequoia can be readily applied to any clonal somatic mutation dataset, including single-cell DNA sequencing datasets, using the commands and scripts provided. Moreover, Sequoia is highly flexible and can be easily customized. Typically, the runtime of the core script ranges from minutes to an hour for datasets with a moderate number (50,000-150,000) of variants. Competent bioinformatic skills, including in-depth knowledge of the R programming language, are required. A high-performance computing cluster (one that is capable of running mutation-calling algorithms and other aspects of the analysis at scale) is also required, especially if handling large datasets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim H H Coorens
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Michael Spencer Chapman
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
- Department of Haematology, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK.
- Department of Haemato-oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | | | | | | | - Jyoti Nangalia
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
- Wellcome-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter J Campbell
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
- Wellcome-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kazansky Y, Mueller HS, Cameron D, Demarest P, Zaffaroni N, Arrighetti N, Zuco V, Mundi PS, Kuwahara Y, Somwar R, Qu R, Califano A, de Stanchina E, Dela Cruz FS, Kung AL, Gounder MM, Kentsis A. Epigenetic targeting of PGBD5-dependent DNA damage in SMARCB1-deficient sarcomas. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.03.592420. [PMID: 38766189 PMCID: PMC11100591 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.03.592420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Despite the potential of targeted epigenetic therapies, most cancers do not respond to current epigenetic drugs. The Polycomb repressive complex EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat was recently approved for the treatment of SMARCB1-deficient epithelioid sarcomas, based on the functional antagonism between PRC2 and loss of SMARCB1. Through the analysis of tazemetostat-treated patient tumors, we recently defined key principles of their response and resistance to EZH2 epigenetic therapy. Here, using transcriptomic inference from SMARCB1-deficient tumor cells, we nominate the DNA damage repair kinase ATR as a target for rational combination EZH2 epigenetic therapy. We show that EZH2 inhibition promotes DNA damage in epithelioid and rhabdoid tumor cells, at least in part via its induction of the transposase-derived PGBD5. We leverage this collateral synthetic lethal dependency to target PGBD5-dependent DNA damage by inhibition of ATR but not CHK1 using elimusertib. Consequently, combined EZH2 and ATR inhibition improves therapeutic responses in diverse patient-derived epithelioid and rhabdoid tumors in vivo. This advances a combination epigenetic therapy based on EZH2-PGBD5 synthetic lethal dependency suitable for immediate translation to clinical trials for patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaniv Kazansky
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Helen S. Mueller
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Cameron
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Phillip Demarest
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nadia Zaffaroni
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Noemi Arrighetti
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Zuco
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Prabhjot S. Mundi
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yasumichi Kuwahara
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine
| | - Romel Somwar
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rui Qu
- Antitumor Assessment Core, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrea Califano
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elisa de Stanchina
- Antitumor Assessment Core, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Filemon S. Dela Cruz
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew L. Kung
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mrinal M. Gounder
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alex Kentsis
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tow Center for Developmental Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, Pharmacology, and Physiology & Biophysics, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Xu R, Chen R, Tu C, Gong X, Liu Z, Mei L, Ren X, Li Z. 3D Models of Sarcomas: The Next-generation Tool for Personalized Medicine. PHENOMICS (CHAM, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 4:171-186. [PMID: 38884054 PMCID: PMC11169319 DOI: 10.1007/s43657-023-00111-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Sarcoma is a complex and heterogeneous cancer that has been difficult to study in vitro. While two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures and mouse models have been the dominant research tools, three-dimensional (3D) culture systems such as organoids have emerged as promising alternatives. In this review, we discuss recent developments in sarcoma organoid culture, with a focus on their potential as tools for drug screening and biobanking. We also highlight the ways in which sarcoma organoids have been used to investigate the mechanisms of gene regulation, drug resistance, metastasis, and immune interactions. Sarcoma organoids have shown to retain characteristics of in vivo biology within an in vitro system, making them a more representative model for sarcoma research. Our review suggests that sarcoma organoids offer a potential path forward for translational research in this field and may provide a platform for developing personalized therapies for sarcoma patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruiling Xu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| | - Ruiqi Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| | - Chao Tu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| | - Xiaofeng Gong
- College of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433 China
| | - Zhongyue Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| | - Lin Mei
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| | - Xiaolei Ren
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| | - Zhihong Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Forbes C, Nierkens S, Cornel AM. Thymic NK-Cells and Their Potential in Cancer Immunotherapy. Immunotargets Ther 2024; 13:183-194. [PMID: 38558927 PMCID: PMC10979679 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s441639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK)-cells are innate immune cells with potent anti-tumor capacity, capable of recognizing target cells without prior exposure. For this reason, NK-cells are recognized as a useful source of cell therapy. Although most NK-cells are derived from the bone marrow (BM), a separate developmental pathway in the thymus also exists, producing so-called thymic NK-cells. Unlike conventional NK-cells, thymic NK (tNK)-cells have a combined capacity for cytokine production and a natural ability to kill tumor cells in the presence of NK-cell receptor stimulatory ligands. Furthermore, tNK-cells are reported to express CD3 subunits intracellularly, without the presence of a rearranged T-cell receptor (TCR). This unique feature may enable harnessing of these cells with a TCR to combine NK- and T-cell effector properties in one cell type. The development, phenotype, and function of tNK-cells, and potential as a cell therapy is, however, poorly explored. In this review, we provide an overview of current literature on both murine and human tNK-cells in comparison to conventional BM-derived NK-cells, and discuss the potential applications of this cellular subset in the context of cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Forbes
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Stefan Nierkens
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Annelisa M Cornel
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cornel AM, van der Sman L, van Dinter JT, Arrabito M, Dunnebach E, van Hoesel M, Kluiver TA, Lopes AP, Dautzenberg NMM, Dekker L, van Rijn JM, van den Beemt DAMH, Buhl JL, du Chatinier A, Barneh F, Lu Y, Lo Nigro L, Krippner-Heidenreich A, Sebestyén Z, Kuball J, Hulleman E, Drost J, van Heesch S, Heidenreich OT, Peng WC, Nierkens S. Targeting pediatric cancers via T-cell recognition of the monomorphic MHC class I-related protein MR1. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e007538. [PMID: 38519054 PMCID: PMC10961533 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) restriction of conventional T-cell targeting introduces complexity in generating T-cell therapy strategies for patients with cancer with diverse HLA-backgrounds. A subpopulation of atypical, major histocompatibility complex-I related protein 1 (MR1)-restricted T-cells, distinctive from mucosal-associated invariant T-cells (MAITs), was recently identified recognizing currently unidentified MR1-presented cancer-specific metabolites. It is hypothesized that the MC.7.G5 MR1T-clone has potential as a pan-cancer, pan-population T-cell immunotherapy approach. These cells are irresponsive to healthy tissue while conferring T-cell receptor(TCR) dependent, HLA-independent cytotoxicity to a wide range of adult cancers. Studies so far are limited to adult malignancies. Here, we investigated the potential of MR1-targeting cellular therapy strategies in pediatric cancer. Bulk RNA sequencing data of primary pediatric tumors were analyzed to assess MR1 expression. In vitro pediatric tumor models were subsequently screened to evaluate their susceptibility to engineered MC.7.G5 TCR-expressing T-cells. Targeting capacity was correlated with qPCR-based MR1 mRNA and protein overexpression. RNA expression of MR1 in primary pediatric tumors varied widely within and between tumor entities. Notably, embryonal tumors exhibited significantly lower MR1 expression than other pediatric tumors. In line with this, most screened embryonal tumors displayed resistance to MR1T-targeting in vitro MR1T susceptibility was observed particularly in pediatric leukemia and diffuse midline glioma models. This study demonstrates potential of MC.7.G5 MR1T-cell immunotherapy in pediatric leukemias and diffuse midline glioma, while activity against embryonal tumors was limited. The dismal prognosis associated with relapsed/refractory leukemias and high-grade brain tumors highlights the promise to improve survival rates of children with these cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annelisa M Cornel
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Loutje van der Sman
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jip T van Dinter
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Arrabito
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center of Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ester Dunnebach
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Thomas A Kluiver
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ana P Lopes
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Linde Dekker
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jorik M van Rijn
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Juliane L Buhl
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Aimee du Chatinier
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Farnaz Barneh
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Yuyan Lu
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Luca Lo Nigro
- Center of Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Zsolt Sebestyén
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jurgen Kuball
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Esther Hulleman
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jarno Drost
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Olaf T Heidenreich
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Weng Chuan Peng
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Nierkens
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Guo L, Li C, Gong W. Toward reproducible tumor organoid culture: focusing on primary liver cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1290504. [PMID: 38571961 PMCID: PMC10987700 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1290504] [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: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Organoids present substantial potential for pushing forward preclinical research and personalized medicine by accurately recapitulating tissue and tumor heterogeneity in vitro. However, the lack of standardized protocols for cancer organoid culture has hindered reproducibility. This paper comprehensively reviews the current challenges associated with cancer organoid culture and highlights recent multidisciplinary advancements in the field with a specific focus on standardizing liver cancer organoid culture. We discuss the non-standardized aspects, including tissue sources, processing techniques, medium formulations, and matrix materials, that contribute to technical variability. Furthermore, we emphasize the need to establish reproducible platforms that accurately preserve the genetic, proteomic, morphological, and pharmacotypic features of the parent tumor. At the end of each section, our focus shifts to organoid culture standardization in primary liver cancer. By addressing these challenges, we can enhance the reproducibility and clinical translation of cancer organoid systems, enabling their potential applications in precision medicine, drug screening, and preclinical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Weiqiang Gong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Grunewald TGP, Postel-Vinay S, Nakayama RT, Berlow NE, Bolzicco A, Cerullo V, Dermawan JK, Frezza AM, Italiano A, Jin JX, Loarer FL, Martin-Broto J, Pecora A, Perez-Martinez A, Tam YB, Tirode F, Trama A, Pasquali S, Vescia M, ortmann L, Wortmann M, Yoshida A, Webb K, Huang PH, Keller C, Antonescu CR. Translational Aspects of Epithelioid Sarcoma: Current Consensus. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:1079-1092. [PMID: 37916971 PMCID: PMC10947972 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-2174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Epithelioid sarcoma (EpS) is an ultra-rare malignant soft-tissue cancer mostly affecting adolescents and young adults. EpS often exhibits an unfavorable clinical course with fatal outcome in ∼50% of cases despite aggressive multimodal therapies combining surgery, chemotherapy, and irradiation. EpS is traditionally classified in a more common, less aggressive distal (classic) type and a rarer aggressive proximal type. Both subtypes are characterized by a loss of nuclear INI1 expression, most often following homozygous deletion of its encoding gene, SMARCB1-a core subunit of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex. In 2020, the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat was the first targeted therapy approved for EpS, raising new hopes. Still, the vast majority of patients did not benefit from this drug or relapsed rapidly. Further, other recent therapeutic modalities, including immunotherapy, are only effective in a fraction of patients. Thus, novel strategies, specifically targeted to EpS, are urgently needed. To accelerate translational research on EpS and eventually boost the discovery and development of new diagnostic tools and therapeutic options, a vibrant translational research community has formed in past years and held two international EpS digital expert meetings in 2021 and 2023. This review summarizes our current understanding of EpS from the translational research perspective and points to innovative research directions to address the most pressing questions in the field, as defined by expert consensus and patient advocacy groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G. P. Grunewald
- Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Hopp Children’s Cancer Center (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), NCT Heidelberg, a partnership between DKFZ and Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sophie Postel-Vinay
- Département d’Innovation Thérapeutique et d’Essais Précoces (DITEP), Gustave Roussy, Université Paris Saclay, Villejuif, France
- U981 INSERM, ERC StG team, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Robert T. Nakayama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Noah E. Berlow
- Children’s Cancer Therapy Development Institute, Hillsboro, Oregon
| | - Andrea Bolzicco
- Patients association ‘Orchestra per la vita’ Aps, Rome, Italy
- Patients association: ‘MC4 in corsa per la vita!’ ETS, Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cerullo
- Drug Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Josephine K. Dermawan
- Robert J. Tomsich Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Anna Maria Frezza
- Department of Medical Oncology 2, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Antoine Italiano
- Early Phase Trials and Sarcoma Units, Institut Bergonie, Bordeaux, France
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jia xiang Jin
- Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Hopp Children’s Cancer Center (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Francois Le Loarer
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Department of Pathology, Institut Bergonie, Bordeaux, France
| | - Javier Martin-Broto
- Medical Oncology Department, Fundacion Jimenez Diaz University Hospital; University Hospital General de Villalba, and Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria Fundacion Jimenez Diaz (IIS/FJD; UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrew Pecora
- John Theurer Cancer Center, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, DC
| | - Antonio Perez-Martinez
- Patients association: ‘MC4 in corsa per la vita!’ ETS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yuen Bun Tam
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Franck Tirode
- Universite Claude Bernard, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Centre Leon Berard, Lyon, France
| | - Annalisa Trama
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science; Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Pasquali
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Lukas ortmann
- Patients association “Smarcb1” e.V., Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | | | - Akihiko Yoshida
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kim Webb
- Patients association “Smarcb1” e.V., Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Paul H. Huang
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, Belmont, United Kingdom
| | - Charles Keller
- Children’s Cancer Therapy Development Institute, Hillsboro, Oregon
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ciriello G, Magnani L, Aitken SJ, Akkari L, Behjati S, Hanahan D, Landau DA, Lopez-Bigas N, Lupiáñez DG, Marine JC, Martin-Villalba A, Natoli G, Obenauf AC, Oricchio E, Scaffidi P, Sottoriva A, Swarbrick A, Tonon G, Vanharanta S, Zuber J. Cancer Evolution: A Multifaceted Affair. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:36-48. [PMID: 38047596 PMCID: PMC10784746 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-0530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells adapt and survive through the acquisition and selection of molecular modifications. This process defines cancer evolution. Building on a theoretical framework based on heritable genetic changes has provided insights into the mechanisms supporting cancer evolution. However, cancer hallmarks also emerge via heritable nongenetic mechanisms, including epigenetic and chromatin topological changes, and interactions between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment. Recent findings on tumor evolutionary mechanisms draw a multifaceted picture where heterogeneous forces interact and influence each other while shaping tumor progression. A comprehensive characterization of the cancer evolutionary toolkit is required to improve personalized medicine and biomarker discovery. SIGNIFICANCE Tumor evolution is fueled by multiple enabling mechanisms. Importantly, genetic instability, epigenetic reprogramming, and interactions with the tumor microenvironment are neither alternative nor independent evolutionary mechanisms. As demonstrated by findings highlighted in this perspective, experimental and theoretical approaches must account for multiple evolutionary mechanisms and their interactions to ultimately understand, predict, and steer tumor evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Ciriello
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Computational Biology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luca Magnani
- The Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
- Breast Epigenetic Plasticity and Evolution Laboratory, Division of Breast Cancer Research, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah J. Aitken
- Medical Research Council Toxicology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Leila Akkari
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sam Behjati
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, United Kingdom
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas Hanahan
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dan A. Landau
- New York Genome Center, New York, New York
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine and Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Nuria Lopez-Bigas
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Darío G. Lupiáñez
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jean-Christophe Marine
- Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Biology, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ana Martin-Villalba
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, German Cancer Research Center (DFKZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gioacchino Natoli
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna C. Obenauf
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Elisa Oricchio
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paola Scaffidi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Cancer Epigenetic Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Sottoriva
- Computational Biology Research Centre, Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Alexander Swarbrick
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Giovanni Tonon
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Center for Omics Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Sakari Vanharanta
- Translational Cancer Medicine Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johannes Zuber
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Clairmont CD, Gell JJ, Lau CC. Pediatric Tumors as Disorders of Development: The Case for In Vitro Modeling Based on Human Stem Cells. Cancer Control 2024; 31:10732748241270564. [PMID: 39118322 PMCID: PMC11311176 DOI: 10.1177/10732748241270564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite improvements in patient outcomes, pediatric cancer remains a leading cause of non-accidental death in children. Recent genetic analysis of patients with pediatric cancers indicates an important role for both germline genetic predisposition and cancer-specific somatic driver mutations. Increasingly, evidence demonstrates that the developmental timepoint at which the cancer cell-of-origin transforms is critical to tumor identity and therapeutic response. Therefore, future therapeutic development would be bolstered by the use of disease models that faithfully recapitulate the genetic context, cell-of-origin, and developmental window of vulnerability in pediatric cancers. Human stem cells have the potential to incorporate all of these characteristics into a pediatric cancer model, while serving as a platform for rapid genetic and pharmacological testing. In this review, we describe how human stem cells have been used to model pediatric cancers and how these models compare to other pediatric cancer model modalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cullen D. Clairmont
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Joanna J. Gell
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
- Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Hartford, CT, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Ching C. Lau
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
- Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Hartford, CT, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Banaszek N, Kurpiewska D, Kozak K, Rutkowski P, Sobczuk P. Hedgehog pathway in sarcoma: from preclinical mechanism to clinical application. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:17635-17649. [PMID: 37815662 PMCID: PMC10657326 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05441-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Sarcomas are a diverse group of malignant neoplasms of mesenchymal origin. They develop rarely, but due to poor prognosis, they are a challenging and significant clinical problem. Currently, available therapeutic options have very limited activity. A better understating of sarcomas' pathogenesis may help develop more effective therapies in the future. The Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway is involved in both embryonic development and mature tissue repair and carcinogenesis. Shh pathway inhibitors are presently used in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma. Its increased activity has been demonstrated in many sarcomas, including osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, chondrosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, and malignant rhabdoid tumor. In vitro studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of inhibitors of the Hedgehog pathway in inhibiting proliferation in those sarcomas in which the components of the pathway are overexpressed. These results were confirmed by in vivo studies, which additionally proved the influence of Shh pathway inhibitors on limiting the metastatic potential of sarcoma cells. However, until now, the efficacy of sarcomas treatment with Shh pathway inhibitors has not been established in clinical trials. The reason for that may be the non-canonical activation of the pathway or interactions with other signaling pathways, such as Wnt or Notch. In this review, we present the Shh signaling pathway's role in the pathogenesis of sarcomas, including both canonical and non-canonical signaling. We also propose how this knowledge could be potentially translated into clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Banaszek
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominika Kurpiewska
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kozak
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Rutkowski
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Sobczuk
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Liu NQ, Paassen I, Custers L, Zeller P, Teunissen H, Ayyildiz D, He J, Buhl JL, Hoving EW, van Oudenaarden A, de Wit E, Drost J. SMARCB1 loss activates patient-specific distal oncogenic enhancers in malignant rhabdoid tumors. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7762. [PMID: 38040699 PMCID: PMC10692191 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43498-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT) is a highly malignant and often lethal childhood cancer. MRTs are genetically defined by bi-allelic inactivating mutations in SMARCB1, a member of the BRG1/BRM-associated factors (BAF) chromatin remodeling complex. Mutations in BAF complex members are common in human cancer, yet their contribution to tumorigenesis remains in many cases poorly understood. Here, we study derailed regulatory landscapes as a consequence of SMARCB1 loss in the context of MRT. Our multi-omics approach on patient-derived MRT organoids reveals a dramatic reshaping of the regulatory landscape upon SMARCB1 reconstitution. Chromosome conformation capture experiments subsequently reveal patient-specific looping of distal enhancer regions with the promoter of the MYC oncogene. This intertumoral heterogeneity in MYC enhancer utilization is also present in patient MRT tissues as shown by combined single-cell RNA-seq and ATAC-seq. We show that loss of SMARCB1 activates patient-specific epigenetic reprogramming underlying MRT tumorigenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Qing Liu
- Division of Gene Regulation, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus Medical Center (MC) Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Irene Paassen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lars Custers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Zeller
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Teunissen
- Division of Gene Regulation, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dilara Ayyildiz
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jiayou He
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Juliane Laura Buhl
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Alexander van Oudenaarden
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Elzo de Wit
- Division of Gene Regulation, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Jarno Drost
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kazansky Y, Cameron D, Mueller HS, Demarest P, Zaffaroni N, Arrighetti N, Zuco V, Kuwahara Y, Somwar R, Ladanyi M, Qu R, De Stanchina E, Dela Cruz FS, Kung AL, Gounder M, Kentsis A. Overcoming clinical resistance to EZH2 inhibition using rational epigenetic combination therapy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.06.527192. [PMID: 36798379 PMCID: PMC9934575 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.06.527192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Essential epigenetic dependencies have become evident in many cancers. Based on the functional antagonism between BAF/SWI/SNF and PRC2 in SMARCB1-deficient sarcomas, we and colleagues recently completed the clinical trial of the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat. However, the principles of tumor response to epigenetic therapy in general, and tazemetostat in particular, remain unknown. Using functional genomics of patient tumors and diverse experimental models, we sought to define molecular mechanisms of tazemetostat resistance in SMARCB1-deficient sarcomas and rhabdoid tumors. We found distinct classes of acquired mutations that converge on the RB1/E2F axis and decouple EZH2-dependent differentiation and cell cycle control. This allows tumor cells to escape tazemetostat-induced G1 arrest despite EZH2 inhibition, and suggests a general mechanism for effective EZH2 therapy. This also enables us to develop combination strategies to circumvent tazemetostat resistance using cell cycle bypass targeting via AURKB, and synthetic lethal targeting of PGBD5-dependent DNA damage repair via ATR. This reveals prospective biomarkers for therapy stratification, including PRICKLE1 associated with tazemetostat resistance. In all, this work offers a paradigm for rational epigenetic combination therapy suitable for immediate translation to clinical trials for epithelioid sarcomas, rhabdoid tumors, and other epigenetically dysregulated cancers.
Collapse
|
15
|
Derks LLM, van Boxtel R. Stem cell mutations, associated cancer risk, and consequences for regenerative medicine. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:1421-1433. [PMID: 37832550 PMCID: PMC10624213 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Mutation accumulation in stem cells has been associated with cancer risk. However, the presence of numerous mutant clones in healthy tissues has raised the question of what limits cancer initiation. Here, we review recent developments in characterizing mutation accumulation in healthy tissues and compare mutation rates in stem cells during development and adult life with corresponding cancer risk. A certain level of mutagenesis within the stem cell pool might be beneficial to limit the size of malignant clones through competition. This knowledge impacts our understanding of carcinogenesis with potential consequences for the use of stem cells in regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucca L M Derks
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ruben van Boxtel
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lobón-Iglesias MJ, Andrianteranagna M, Han ZY, Chauvin C, Masliah-Planchon J, Manriquez V, Tauziede-Espariat A, Turczynski S, Bouarich-Bourimi R, Frah M, Dufour C, Blauwblomme T, Cardoen L, Pierron G, Maillot L, Guillemot D, Reynaud S, Bourneix C, Pouponnot C, Surdez D, Bohec M, Baulande S, Delattre O, Piaggio E, Ayrault O, Waterfall JJ, Servant N, Beccaria K, Dangouloff-Ros V, Bourdeaut F. Imaging and multi-omics datasets converge to define different neural progenitor origins for ATRT-SHH subgroups. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6669. [PMID: 37863903 PMCID: PMC10589300 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42371-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (ATRT) are divided into MYC, TYR and SHH subgroups, suggesting diverse lineages of origin. Here, we investigate the imaging of human ATRT at diagnosis and the precise anatomic origin of brain tumors in the Rosa26-CreERT2::Smarcb1flox/flox model. This cross-species analysis points to an extra-cerebral origin for MYC tumors. Additionally, we clearly distinguish SHH ATRT emerging from the cerebellar anterior lobe (CAL) from those emerging from the basal ganglia (BG) and intra-ventricular (IV) regions. Molecular characteristics point to the midbrain-hindbrain boundary as the origin of CAL SHH ATRT, and to the ganglionic eminence as the origin of BG/IV SHH ATRT. Single-cell RNA sequencing on SHH ATRT supports these hypotheses. Trajectory analyses suggest that SMARCB1 loss induces a de-differentiation process mediated by repressors of the neuronal program such as REST, ID and the NOTCH pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María-Jesús Lobón-Iglesias
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research In Pediatric Oncology, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Mamy Andrianteranagna
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research In Pediatric Oncology, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
- INSERM U900, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Computational Systems Unit, Institut Curie, Mines Paris Tech, PSL Research University, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Zhi-Yan Han
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research In Pediatric Oncology, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Céline Chauvin
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research In Pediatric Oncology, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Julien Masliah-Planchon
- Somatic Genetic Unit, Department of Pathology and Diagnostic and Theranostic Medecine, Institut Curie Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Valeria Manriquez
- INSERM U932, Immunity and Cancer, PSL Research University, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Arnault Tauziede-Espariat
- Department of Neuropathology, GHU Paris-Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Sainte-Anne Hospital, Paris, France
- Paris Psychiatry and Neurosciences Institute (IPNP), UMR S1266, INSERM, IMA-BRAIN, Paris, France
| | - Sandrina Turczynski
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research In Pediatric Oncology, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Rachida Bouarich-Bourimi
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research In Pediatric Oncology, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Magali Frah
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research In Pediatric Oncology, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Christelle Dufour
- Department of Children and Adolescents Oncology, Gustave Roussy, Paris Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Thomas Blauwblomme
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery-AP-HP, Necker Sick Kids Hospital, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Gaelle Pierron
- Somatic Genetic Unit, Department of Pathology and Diagnostic and Theranostic Medecine, Institut Curie Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Laetitia Maillot
- Somatic Genetic Unit, Department of Pathology and Diagnostic and Theranostic Medecine, Institut Curie Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Guillemot
- Somatic Genetic Unit, Department of Pathology and Diagnostic and Theranostic Medecine, Institut Curie Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Reynaud
- Somatic Genetic Unit, Department of Pathology and Diagnostic and Theranostic Medecine, Institut Curie Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Christine Bourneix
- Somatic Genetic Unit, Department of Pathology and Diagnostic and Theranostic Medecine, Institut Curie Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Célio Pouponnot
- CNRS UMR 3347, INSERM U1021, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Université Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France
| | - Didier Surdez
- INSERM U830, Diversity and Plasticity of Childhood Tumors Lab, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
- Balgrist University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mylene Bohec
- Institut Curie, PSL University, Single Cell Initiative, ICGex Next-Generation Sequencing Platform, PSL University, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Sylvain Baulande
- Institut Curie, PSL University, Single Cell Initiative, ICGex Next-Generation Sequencing Platform, PSL University, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Delattre
- Somatic Genetic Unit, Department of Pathology and Diagnostic and Theranostic Medecine, Institut Curie Hospital, Paris, France
- INSERM U830, Diversity and Plasticity of Childhood Tumors Lab, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Eliane Piaggio
- INSERM U932, Immunity and Cancer, PSL Research University, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Ayrault
- CNRS UMR 3347, INSERM U1021, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Université Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France
| | - Joshua J Waterfall
- INSERM U830, Integrative Functional Genomics of Cancer Lab, PSL Research University, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
- Department of Translational Research, PSL Research University, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Servant
- INSERM U900, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Computational Systems Unit, Institut Curie, Mines Paris Tech, PSL Research University, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Kevin Beccaria
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery-AP-HP, Necker Sick Kids Hospital, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Volodia Dangouloff-Ros
- Pediatric Radiology Department, AP-HP, Necker Sick Kids Hospital and Paris Cite Universiy INSERM 1299 and UMR 1163, Institut Imagine, Paris, France
| | - Franck Bourdeaut
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research In Pediatric Oncology, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France.
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, SIREDO Oncology Center, Institut Curie Hospital, Paris, and Université de Paris, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Witkowski L, Nichols KE, Jongmans M, van Engelen N, de Krijger RR, Herrera-Mullar J, Tytgat L, Bahrami A, Mar Fan H, Davidson AL, Robertson T, Anderson M, Hasselblatt M, Plon SE, Foulkes WD. Germline pathogenic SMARCA4 variants in neuroblastoma. J Med Genet 2023; 60:987-992. [PMID: 36813544 PMCID: PMC10570933 DOI: 10.1136/jmg-2022-108854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Heterozygous germline pathogenic variants (GPVs) in SMARCA4, the gene encoding the ATP-dependent chromatin remodelling protein SMARCA4 (previously known as BRG1), predispose to several rare tumour types, including small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcaemic type, atypical teratoid and malignant rhabdoid tumour, and uterine sarcoma. The increase in germline testing of SMARCA4 in recent years has revealed putative GPVs affecting SMARCA4 in patients with other cancer types. Here we describe 11 patients with neuroblastoma (NBL), including 4 previously unreported cases, all of whom were found to harbour heterozygous germline variants in SMARCA4 Median age at diagnosis was 5 years (range 2 months-26 years); nine were male; and eight of nine cases had tumour location information in the adrenal gland. Eight of the germline variants were expected to result in loss of function of SMARCA4 (large deletion, truncating and canonical splice variants), while the remaining four were missense variants. Loss of heterozygosity of the wild-type SMARCA4 allele was found in all eight cases where somatic testing was performed, supporting the notion that SMARCA4 functions as a classic tumour suppressor. Altogether, these findings strongly suggest that NBL should be included in the spectrum of SMARCA4-associated tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leora Witkowski
- Core Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Kim E Nichols
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Marjolijn Jongmans
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ronald R de Krijger
- Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Lieve Tytgat
- Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Armita Bahrami
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Helen Mar Fan
- Genetic Health Queensland, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Aimee L Davidson
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thomas Robertson
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Pathology Queensland, Queensland Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Martin Hasselblatt
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sharon E Plon
- Department of Pediatrics/Hematology-Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - William D Foulkes
- Lady Davis Institute and Segal Cancer Centre, Sir Mortimer B Davis Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jassim A, Rahrmann EP, Simons BD, Gilbertson RJ. Cancers make their own luck: theories of cancer origins. Nat Rev Cancer 2023; 23:710-724. [PMID: 37488363 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00602-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Cancer has been a leading cause of death for decades. This dismal statistic has increased efforts to prevent the disease or to detect it early, when treatment is less invasive, relatively inexpensive and more likely to cure. But precisely how tissues are transformed continues to provoke controversy and debate, hindering cancer prevention and early intervention strategies. Various theories of cancer origins have emerged, including the suggestion that it is 'bad luck': the inevitable consequence of random mutations in proliferating stem cells. In this Review, we discuss the principal theories of cancer origins and the relative importance of the factors that underpin them. The body of available evidence suggests that developing and ageing tissues 'walk a tightrope', retaining adequate levels of cell plasticity to generate and maintain tissues while avoiding overstepping into transformation. Rather than viewing cancer as 'bad luck', understanding the complex choreography of cell intrinsic and extrinsic factors that characterize transformation holds promise to discover effective new ways to prevent, detect and stop cancer before it becomes incurable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Jassim
- CRUK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eric P Rahrmann
- CRUK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ben D Simons
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, Centre for Mathematical Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Richard J Gilbertson
- CRUK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lanzi C, Arrighetti N, Pasquali S, Cassinelli G. Targeting EZH2 in SMARCB1-deficient sarcomas: Advances and opportunities to potentiate the efficacy of EZH2 inhibitors. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115727. [PMID: 37541451 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) are rare mesechymal malignancies characterized by distintive molecular, histological and clinical features. Many STSs are considered as predominatly epigenetic diseases due to underlying chromatin deregulation. Discovery of deregulated functional antagonism between the chromatin remodeling BRG1/BRM-associated (BAFs) and the histone modifying Polycomb repressor complexes (PRCs) has provided novel actionable targets. In epithelioid sarcoma (ES), extracranial, extrarenal malignant rhabdoid tumors (eMRTs) and synovial sarcoma (SS), the total or partial loss of the BAF core subunit SMARCB1, driven by different alterations, is associated with PRC2 deregulation and dependency on its enzymatic subunit, EZH2. In these SMARCB1-deficient STSs, aberrant EZH2 expression and/or activity emerged as a druggable vulnerability. Although preclinical investigation supported EZH2 targeting as a promising therapeutic option, clinical studies demonstrated a variable response to EZH2 inhibitors. Actually, whereas the clinical benefit recorded in ES patients prompted the FDA approval of the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat, the modest and sporadic responses observed in eMRT and SS patients highlighted the need to deepen mechanistic as well as pharmacological investigations to improve drug effectiveness. We summarize the current knowledge of different mechanisms driving SMARCB1 deficiency and EZH2 deregulation in ES, eMRT and SS along with preclinical and clinical studies of EZH2-targeting agents. Possible implication of the PRC2- and enzymatic-independent functions of EZH2 and of its homolog, EZH1, in the response to anti-EZH2 agents will be discussed together with combinatorial strategies under investigation to improve the efficacy of EZH2 targeting in these tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Lanzi
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Amadeo 42, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Noemi Arrighetti
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Amadeo 42, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Pasquali
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Amadeo 42, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuliana Cassinelli
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Amadeo 42, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Fountain DM, Sauka-Spengler T. The SWI/SNF Complex in Neural Crest Cell Development and Disease. Annu Rev Genomics Hum Genet 2023; 24:203-223. [PMID: 37624665 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genom-011723-082913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
While the neural crest cell population gives rise to an extraordinary array of derivatives, including elements of the craniofacial skeleton, skin pigmentation, and peripheral nervous system, it is today increasingly recognized that Schwann cell precursors are also multipotent. Two mammalian paralogs of the SWI/SNF (switch/sucrose nonfermentable) chromatin-remodeling complexes, BAF (Brg1-associated factors) and PBAF (polybromo-associated BAF), are critical for neural crest specification during normal mammalian development. There is increasing evidence that pathogenic variants in components of the BAF and PBAF complexes play central roles in the pathogenesis of neural crest-derived tumors. Transgenic mouse models demonstrate a temporal window early in development where pathogenic variants in Smarcb1 result in the formation of aggressive, poorly differentiated tumors, such as rhabdoid tumors. By contrast, later in development, homozygous inactivation of Smarcb1 requires additional pathogenic variants in tumor suppressor genes to drive the development of differentiated adult neoplasms derived from the neural crest, which have a comparatively good prognosis in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Fountain
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom; ,
| | - Tatjana Sauka-Spengler
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom; ,
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Sheng J, Li TT, Zhang HH, Xu HF, Cai XM, Xu R, Ji QQ, Wu YM, Huang T, Yang XJ. CT and MR imaging features of soft tissue rhabdoid tumor: compared with rhabdomyosarcoma in children. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1199444. [PMID: 37547104 PMCID: PMC10401262 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1199444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging characteristics of soft tissue rhabdoid tumors (RT) and compare them with those of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 49 pediatric patients from 2011 to 2022, comprising 16 patients with soft tissue RT and 33 patients with RMS who underwent CT or MRI scans. Key imaging features, as well as clinical and pathological data, were compared between the two groups. The multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine independent differential factors for distinguishing soft tissue RT from RMS, and the model was established. The final prediction model was visualized by nomograms and verified internally by using a bootstrapped resample 1,000 times. The diagnostic accuracy of the combined model was assessed in terms of discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility. Results Age, sex, number of lesions, and primary locations were similar in both groups. The imaging characteristics, including margin, calcification, surrounding blood vessels, and rim enhancement, were associated with the two groups of soft tissue tumors, as determined by univariate analysis (all p < 0.05). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the presence of unclear margin (p-value, adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.03, 7.96 [1.23, 51.67]) and calcification (0.012, 30.37 [2.09, 440.70]) were independent differential factors for predicting soft tissue RT over RMS. The presence of rim enhancement (0.007, 0.05 [0.01, 0.43]) was an independent differential factor for predicting RMS over soft tissue RT. The comprehensive model established by logistic regression analysis showed an AUC of 0.872 with 81.8% specificity and 81.3% sensitivity. The decision curve analysis (DCA) curve displayed that the model achieved a better net clinical benefit. Conclusion Our study revealed that the image features of calcification, indistinct margins, and a lack of rim enhancement on CT and MRI might be reliable to distinguish soft tissue RT from RMS.
Collapse
|
22
|
Anderson ND, Birch J, Accogli T, Criado I, Khabirova E, Parks C, Wood Y, Young MD, Porter T, Richardson R, Albon SJ, Popova B, Lopes A, Wynn R, Hough R, Gohil SH, Pule M, Amrolia PJ, Behjati S, Ghorashian S. Transcriptional signatures associated with persisting CD19 CAR-T cells in children with leukemia. Nat Med 2023; 29:1700-1709. [PMID: 37407840 PMCID: PMC10353931 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02415-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
In the context of relapsed and refractory childhood pre-B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (R/R B-ALL), CD19-targeting chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells often induce durable remissions, which requires the persistence of CAR-T cells. In this study, we systematically analyzed CD19 CAR-T cells of 10 children with R/R B-ALL enrolled in the CARPALL trial via high-throughput single-cell gene expression and T cell receptor sequencing of infusion products and serial blood and bone marrow samples up to 5 years after infusion. We show that long-lived CAR-T cells developed a CD4/CD8 double-negative phenotype with an exhausted-like memory state and distinct transcriptional signature. This persistence signature was dominant among circulating CAR-T cells in all children with a long-lived treatment response for which sequencing data were sufficient (4/4, 100%). The signature was also present across T cell subsets and clonotypes, indicating that persisting CAR-T cells converge transcriptionally. This persistence signature was also detected in two adult patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia with decade-long remissions who received a different CD19 CAR-T cell product. Examination of single T cell transcriptomes from a wide range of healthy and diseased tissues across children and adults indicated that the persistence signature may be specific to long-lived CAR-T cells. These findings raise the possibility that a universal transcriptional signature of clinically effective, persistent CD19 CAR-T cells exists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jack Birch
- Developmental Biology and Cancer, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Theo Accogli
- Developmental Biology and Cancer, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Ignacio Criado
- Developmental Biology and Cancer, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rachel Richardson
- Developmental Biology and Cancer, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Sarah J Albon
- Developmental Biology and Cancer, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Bilyana Popova
- Cancer Research UK & UCL Cancer Trials Centre, London, UK
| | - Andre Lopes
- Cancer Research UK & UCL Cancer Trials Centre, London, UK
| | - Robert Wynn
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Rachael Hough
- Children and Young People's Cancer Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Satyen H Gohil
- Department of Haematology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Haematology, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | - Martin Pule
- Department of Haematology, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | - Persis J Amrolia
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Sam Behjati
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Sara Ghorashian
- Developmental Biology and Cancer, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.
- Department of Haematology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
DeMartino J, Meister MT, Visser LL, Brok M, Groot Koerkamp MJA, Wezenaar AKL, Hiemcke-Jiwa LS, de Souza T, Merks JHM, Rios AC, Holstege FCP, Margaritis T, Drost J. Single-cell transcriptomics reveals immune suppression and cell states predictive of patient outcomes in rhabdomyosarcoma. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3074. [PMID: 37244912 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38886-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Paediatric rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a soft tissue malignancy of mesenchymal origin that is thought to arise as a consequence of derailed myogenic differentiation. Despite intensive treatment regimens, the prognosis for high-risk patients remains dismal. The cellular differentiation states underlying RMS and how these relate to patient outcomes remain largely elusive. Here, we use single-cell mRNA sequencing to generate a transcriptomic atlas of RMS. Analysis of the RMS tumour niche reveals evidence of an immunosuppressive microenvironment. We also identify a putative interaction between NECTIN3 and TIGIT, specific to the more aggressive fusion-positive (FP) RMS subtype, as a potential cause of tumour-induced T-cell dysfunction. In malignant RMS cells, we define transcriptional programs reflective of normal myogenic differentiation and show that these cellular differentiation states are predictive of patient outcomes in both FP RMS and the less aggressive fusion-negative subtype. Our study reveals the potential of therapies targeting the immune microenvironment of RMS and suggests that assessing tumour differentiation states may enable a more refined risk stratification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeff DeMartino
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Michael T Meister
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lindy L Visser
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mariël Brok
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marian J A Groot Koerkamp
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Amber K L Wezenaar
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Laura S Hiemcke-Jiwa
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Terezinha de Souza
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes H M Merks
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne C Rios
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frank C P Holstege
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center for Molecular Medicine, UMC Utrecht and Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Thanasis Margaritis
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Jarno Drost
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Vokshi BH, Davidson G, Tawanaie Pour Sedehi N, Helleux A, Rippinger M, Haller AR, Gantzer J, Thouvenin J, Baltzinger P, Bouarich R, Manriquez V, Zaidi S, Rao P, Msaouel P, Su X, Lang H, Tricard T, Lindner V, Surdez D, Kurtz JE, Bourdeaut F, Tannir NM, Davidson I, Malouf GG. SMARCB1 regulates a TFCP2L1-MYC transcriptional switch promoting renal medullary carcinoma transformation and ferroptosis resistance. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3034. [PMID: 37236926 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38472-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal medullary carcinoma (RMC) is an aggressive tumour driven by bi-allelic loss of SMARCB1 and tightly associated with sickle cell trait. However, the cell-of-origin and oncogenic mechanism remain poorly understood. Using single-cell sequencing of human RMC, we defined transformation of thick ascending limb (TAL) cells into an epithelial-mesenchymal gradient of RMC cells associated with loss of renal epithelial transcription factors TFCP2L1, HOXB9 and MITF and gain of MYC and NFE2L2-associated oncogenic and ferroptosis resistance programs. We describe the molecular basis for this transcriptional switch that is reversed by SMARCB1 re-expression repressing the oncogenic and ferroptosis resistance programs leading to ferroptotic cell death. Ferroptosis resistance links TAL cell survival with the high extracellular medullar iron concentrations associated with sickle cell trait, an environment propitious to the mutagenic events associated with RMC development. This unique environment may explain why RMC is the only SMARCB1-deficient tumour arising from epithelial cells, differentiating RMC from rhabdoid tumours arising from neural crest cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bujamin H Vokshi
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France
| | - Guillaume Davidson
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France
| | - Nassim Tawanaie Pour Sedehi
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France
| | - Alexandra Helleux
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France
| | - Marc Rippinger
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France
| | - Alexandre R Haller
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France
| | - Justine Gantzer
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg Europe, 67200, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jonathan Thouvenin
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg Europe, 67200, Strasbourg, France
| | - Philippe Baltzinger
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France
| | - Rachida Bouarich
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, Diversity and Plasticity of Childhood Tumors Lab, Institut Curie Research Centre, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Valeria Manriquez
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, Diversity and Plasticity of Childhood Tumors Lab, Institut Curie Research Centre, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Sakina Zaidi
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, Diversity and Plasticity of Childhood Tumors Lab, Institut Curie Research Centre, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Priya Rao
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Pavlos Msaouel
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Xiaoping Su
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Division of Quantitative Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Hervé Lang
- Department of Urology, CHRU Strasbourg, Strasbourg University, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Thibault Tricard
- Department of Urology, CHRU Strasbourg, Strasbourg University, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Véronique Lindner
- Department of Pathology, CHRU Strasbourg, Strasbourg University, 67200, Strasbourg, France
| | - Didier Surdez
- Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- INSERM, U830, Pediatric Translational Research, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Center, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Emmanuel Kurtz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg Europe, 67200, Strasbourg, France
| | - Franck Bourdeaut
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, Diversity and Plasticity of Childhood Tumors Lab, Institut Curie Research Centre, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Nizar M Tannir
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Irwin Davidson
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France.
- 'Équipe Labellisée' Ligue National contre le Cancer, Paris, France.
| | - Gabriel G Malouf
- Department of Cancer and Functional Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, 67400, Illkirch, France.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg Europe, 67200, Strasbourg, France.
- 'Équipe Labellisée' Ligue National contre le Cancer, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Pomella S, Danielli SG, Alaggio R, Breunis WB, Hamed E, Selfe J, Wachtel M, Walters ZS, Schäfer BW, Rota R, Shipley JM, Hettmer S. Genomic and Epigenetic Changes Drive Aberrant Skeletal Muscle Differentiation in Rhabdomyosarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2823. [PMID: 37345159 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102823] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), the most common soft-tissue sarcoma in children and adolescents, represents an aberrant form of skeletal muscle differentiation. Both skeletal muscle development, as well as regeneration of adult skeletal muscle are governed by members of the myogenic family of regulatory transcription factors (MRFs), which are deployed in a highly controlled, multi-step, bidirectional process. Many aspects of this complex process are deregulated in RMS and contribute to tumorigenesis. Interconnected loops of super-enhancers, called core regulatory circuitries (CRCs), define aberrant muscle differentiation in RMS cells. The transcriptional regulation of MRF expression/activity takes a central role in the CRCs active in skeletal muscle and RMS. In PAX3::FOXO1 fusion-positive (PF+) RMS, CRCs maintain expression of the disease-driving fusion oncogene. Recent single-cell studies have revealed hierarchically organized subsets of cells within the RMS cell pool, which recapitulate developmental myogenesis and appear to drive malignancy. There is a large interest in exploiting the causes of aberrant muscle development in RMS to allow for terminal differentiation as a therapeutic strategy, for example, by interrupting MEK/ERK signaling or by interfering with the epigenetic machinery controlling CRCs. In this review, we provide an overview of the genetic and epigenetic framework of abnormal muscle differentiation in RMS, as it provides insights into fundamental mechanisms of RMS malignancy, its remarkable phenotypic diversity and, ultimately, opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pomella
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS Istituto Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesu, Viale San Paolo 15, 00146 Rome, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara G Danielli
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Rita Alaggio
- Department of Pathology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Viale San Paolo 15, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Willemijn B Breunis
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Ebrahem Hamed
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Joanna Selfe
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London SM2 FNG, UK
| | - Marco Wachtel
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Zoe S Walters
- Translational Epigenomics Team, Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Beat W Schäfer
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Rossella Rota
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS Istituto Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesu, Viale San Paolo 15, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Janet M Shipley
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London SM2 FNG, UK
| | - Simone Hettmer
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre Freiburg (CCCF), University Medical Center Freiburg, 790106 Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Green D, Singh A, Tippett VL, Tattersall L, Shah KM, Siachisumo C, Ward NJ, Thomas P, Carter S, Jeys L, Sumathi V, McNamara I, Elliott DJ, Gartland A, Dalmay T, Fraser WD. YBX1-interacting small RNAs and RUNX2 can be blocked in primary bone cancer using CADD522. J Bone Oncol 2023; 39:100474. [PMID: 36936386 PMCID: PMC10015236 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2023.100474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary bone cancer (PBC) comprises several subtypes each underpinned by distinctive genetic drivers. This driver diversity produces novel morphological features and clinical behaviour that serendipitously makes PBC an excellent metastasis model. Here, we report that some transfer RNA-derived small RNAs termed tRNA fragments (tRFs) perform as a constitutive tumour suppressor mechanism by blunting a potential pro-metastatic protein-RNA interaction. This mechanism is reduced in PBC progression with a gradual loss of tRNAGlyTCC cleavage into 5' end tRF-GlyTCC when comparing low-grade, intermediate-grade and high-grade patient tumours. We detected recurrent activation of miR-140 leading to upregulated RUNX2 expression in high-grade patient tumours. Both tRF-GlyTCC and RUNX2 share a sequence motif in their 3' ends that matches the YBX1 recognition site known to stabilise pro-metastatic mRNAs. Investigating some aspects of this interaction network, gain- and loss-of-function experiments using small RNA mimics and antisense LNAs, respectively, showed that ectopic tRF-GlyTCC reduced RUNX2 expression and dispersed 3D micromass architecture in vitro. iCLIP sequencing revealed YBX1 physical binding to the 3' UTR of RUNX2. The interaction between YBX1, tRF-GlyTCC and RUNX2 led to the development of the RUNX2 inhibitor CADD522 as a PBC treatment. CADD522 assessment in vitro revealed significant effects on PBC cell behaviour. In xenograft mouse models, CADD522 as a single agent without surgery significantly reduced tumour volume, increased overall and metastasis-free survival and reduced cancer-induced bone disease. Our results provide insight into PBC molecular abnormalities that have led to the identification of new targets and a new therapeutic.
Collapse
Key Words
- CADD522
- CADD522, computer aided drug design molecule 522
- CI, confidence interval
- CNV, copy number variant
- CS, chondrosarcoma
- CTC, circulating tumour cell
- DE, differentially expressed
- ES, Ewing sarcoma
- HD, high definition
- HR, hazard ratio
- OS, osteosarcoma
- RBP, RNA binding protein
- RNU6-1, U6 small nuclear 1
- ROI, region-of-interest
- Rnl, T4 RNA ligase
- SNV, single nucleotide variant
- SV, structural variant
- bone cancer
- iCLIP, individual nucleotide resolution cross-linking and immunoprecipitation
- mRNA, messenger RNA
- miRNA
- miRNA, microRNA
- piRNA, piwi interacting RNA
- sRNA, small RNA
- small RNA
- tRF
- tRF, transfer RNA fragment
- tRNA, transfer RNA
- ysRNA, Y RNA-derived sRNA
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darrell Green
- Biomedical Research Centre, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
- Corresponding author.
| | - Archana Singh
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Victoria L. Tippett
- The Mellanby Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Luke Tattersall
- The Mellanby Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Karan M. Shah
- The Mellanby Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Nicole J. Ward
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Paul Thomas
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
- Henry Wellcome Laboratory for Cell Imaging, Faculty of Science, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Simon Carter
- Orthopaedic Oncology, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Lee Jeys
- Orthopaedic Oncology, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Vaiyapuri Sumathi
- Musculoskeletal Pathology, University Hospitals Birmingham, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Iain McNamara
- Orthopaedics & Trauma, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich, UK
| | | | - Alison Gartland
- The Mellanby Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Tamas Dalmay
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - William D. Fraser
- Biomedical Research Centre, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
- Clinical Biochemistry, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich, UK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Alva E, Rubens J, Chi S, Rosenberg T, Reddy A, Raabe EH, Margol A. Recent progress and novel approaches to treating atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor. Neoplasia 2023; 37:100880. [PMID: 36773516 PMCID: PMC9929860 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2023.100880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) are malignant central nervous system (CNS) tumors that occur mostly in young children and have historically carried a very poor prognosis. While recent clinical trial results show that this tumor is curable, outcomes are still poor compared to other central nervous system embryonal tumors. We here review prior AT/RT clinical trials and highlight promising pre-clinical results that may inform novel clinical approaches to this aggressive cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Alva
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jeffrey Rubens
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Susan Chi
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tom Rosenberg
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alyssa Reddy
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eric H Raabe
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Ashley Margol
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Neyazi S, Altendorf L, Schwetje D, Göbel C, Schoof M, Holdhof D, Schüller U. Generation of new transgenic SMARCA4-deficient mouse models results in neuromuscular weakness and paralysis of limbs. Brain Pathol 2022; 33:e13146. [PMID: 36582072 PMCID: PMC10154361 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Neyazi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lea Altendorf
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dora Schwetje
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Group Anatomy, School of Medicine and Health Studies, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Göbel
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Schoof
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dörthe Holdhof
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schüller
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Cornel AM, Dunnebach E, Hofman DA, Das S, Sengupta S, van den Ham F, Wienke J, Strijker JGM, van den Beemt DAMH, Essing AHW, Koopmans B, Engels SAG, Lo Presti V, Szanto CS, George RE, Molenaar JJ, van Heesch S, Dierselhuis MP, Nierkens S. Epigenetic modulation of neuroblastoma enhances T cell and NK cell immunogenicity by inducing a tumor-cell lineage switch. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-005002. [PMID: 36521927 PMCID: PMC9756225 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy in high-risk neuroblastoma (HR-NBL) does not live up to its full potential due to inadequate (adaptive) immune engagement caused by the extensive immunomodulatory capacity of HR-NBL. We aimed to tackle one of the most notable immunomodulatory processes in neuroblastoma (NBL), absence of major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) surface expression, a process greatly limiting cytotoxic T cell engagement. We and others have previously shown that MHC-I expression can be induced by cytokine-driven immune modulation. Here, we aimed to identify tolerable pharmacological repurposing strategies to upregulate MHC-I expression and therewith enhance T cell immunogenicity in NBL. METHODS Drug repurposing libraries were screened to identify compounds enhancing MHC-I surface expression in NBL cells using high-throughput flow cytometry analyses optimized for adherent cells. The effect of positive hits was confirmed in a panel of NBL cell lines and patient-derived organoids. Compound-treated NBL cell lines and organoids were cocultured with preferentially expressed antigen of melanoma (PRAME)-reactive tumor-specific T cells and healthy-donor natural killer (NK) cells to determine the in vitro effect on T cell and NK cell cytotoxicity. Additional immunomodulatory effects of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) were identified by transcriptome and translatome analysis of treated organoids. RESULTS Drug library screening revealed MHC-I upregulation by inhibitor of apoptosis inhibitor (IAPi)- and HDACi drug classes. The effect of IAPi was limited due to repression of nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) pathway activity in NBL, while the MHC-I-modulating effect of HDACi was widely translatable to a panel of NBL cell lines and patient-derived organoids. Pretreatment of NBL cells with the HDACi entinostat enhanced the cytotoxic capacity of tumor-specific T cells against NBL in vitro, which coincided with increased expression of additional players regulating T cell cytotoxicity (eg, TAP1/2 and immunoproteasome subunits). Moreover, MICA and MICB, important in NK cell cytotoxicity, were also increased by entinostat exposure. Intriguingly, this increase in immunogenicity was accompanied by a shift toward a more mesenchymal NBL cell lineage. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates the potential of combining (immuno)therapy with HDACi to enhance both T cell-driven and NKcell-driven immune responses in patients with HR-NBL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annelisa M Cornel
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ester Dunnebach
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Damon A Hofman
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sanjukta Das
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Satyaki Sengupta
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Femke van den Ham
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Judith Wienke
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Denise A M H van den Beemt
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anke H W Essing
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bianca Koopmans
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sem A G Engels
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Vania Lo Presti
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Celina S Szanto
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rani E George
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jan J Molenaar
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - S Nierkens
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Dermawan JK, Singer S, Tap WD, Nacev BA, Chi P, Wexler LH, Ortiz MV, Gounder M, Antonescu CR. The genetic landscape of SMARCB1 alterations in SMARCB1-deficient spectrum of mesenchymal neoplasms. Mod Pathol 2022; 35:1900-1909. [PMID: 36088476 PMCID: PMC9712236 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-022-01148-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
SMARCB1 biallelic inactivation resulting in SMARCB1/INI1 deficiency drives a wide range of malignancies, including many mesenchymal tumors. However, the specific types of SMARCB1 alterations and spectrum of cooperating mutations among various types of sarcomas has not been well investigated. We profiled SMARCB1 genetic alterations by targeted DNA sequencing and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in a large cohort of 118 soft tissue and bone tumors, including SMARCB1-deficient sarcomas (78, 66%): epithelioid sarcomas, epithelioid peripheral nerve sheath tumors, poorly differentiated chordomas, malignant rhabdoid tumors, and soft tissue myoepithelial tumors, as well as non-SMARCB1-deficient sarcomas (40, 34%) with various SMARCB1 genetic alterations (mutations, copy number alterations). SMARCB1 loss by immunohistochemistry was present in 94% SMARCB1 pathogenic cases. By combined sequencing and FISH assays, 80% of SMARCB1-deficient tumors harbored homozygous (biallelic) SMARCB1 loss, while 14% demonstrated heterozygous SMARCB1 loss-of-function (LOF) alterations, and 6% showed no demonstrable SMARCB1 alterations. FISH and sequencing were concordant in the ability to detect SMARCB1 loss in 48% of cases. Epithelioid sarcomas most commonly (75%) harbored homozygous deletions, while a subset showed focal intragenic deletions or LOF mutations (nonsense, frameshift). In contrast, most soft tissue myoepithelial tumors (83%) harbored SMARCB1 nonsense point mutations without copy number losses. Additionally, clinically significant, recurrent co-occurring genetic events were rare regardless of histotype. By sequencing, extended 22q copy number loss in genes flanking the SMARCB1 locus (22q11.23) occurred in one-third of epithelioid sarcomas and the majority of poorly differentiated chordomas. Poorly differentiated chordomas and soft tissue myoepithelial tumors showed significantly worse overall and disease-free survival compared to epithelioid sarcomas. Overall, SMARCB1 LOF alterations predominate and account for SMARCB1 protein loss in most cases: majority being biallelic but a subset were heterozygous. In contrast, SMARCB1 alterations of uncertain significance can be seen in diverse sarcomas types and does not indicate a SMARCB1-deficient entity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josephine K Dermawan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Samuel Singer
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - William D Tap
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Benjamin A Nacev
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ping Chi
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Leonard H Wexler
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael V Ortiz
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mrinal Gounder
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cristina R Antonescu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Somatic variation in normal tissues: friend or foe of cancer early detection? Ann Oncol 2022; 33:1239-1249. [PMID: 36162751 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2022.09.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seemingly normal tissues progressively become populated by mutant clones over time. Most of these clones bear mutations in well-known cancer genes but only rarely do they transform into cancer. This poses questions on what triggers cancer initiation and what implications somatic variation has for cancer early detection. DESIGN We analysed recent mutational screens of healthy and cancer-free diseased tissues to compare somatic drivers and the causes of somatic variation across tissues. We then reviewed the mechanisms of clonal expansion and their relationships with age and diseases other than cancer. We finally discussed the relevance of somatic variation for cancer initiation and how it can help or hinder cancer detection and prevention. RESULTS The extent of somatic variation is highly variable across tissues and depends on intrinsic features, such as tissue architecture and turnover, as well as the exposure to endogenous and exogenous insults. Most somatic mutations driving clonal expansion are tissue-specific and inactivate tumor suppressor genes involved in chromatin modification and cell growth signaling. Some of these genes are more frequently mutated in normal tissues than cancer, indicating a context-dependent cancer promoting or protective role. Mutant clones can persist over a long time or disappear rapidly, suggesting that their fitness depends on the dynamic equilibrium with the environment. The disruption of this equilibrium is likely responsible for their transformation into malignant clones and knowing what triggers this process is key for cancer prevention and early detection. Somatic variation should be considered in liquid biopsy, where it may contribute cancer-independent mutations, and in the identification of cancer drivers, since not all mutated genes favoring clonal expansion also drive tumorigenesis. CONCLUSIONS Somatic variation and the factors governing homeostasis of normal tissues should be taken into account when devising strategies for cancer prevention and early detection.
Collapse
|
32
|
Meister MT, Groot Koerkamp MJA, de Souza T, Breunis WB, Frazer‐Mendelewska E, Brok M, DeMartino J, Manders F, Calandrini C, Kerstens HHD, Janse A, Dolman MEM, Eising S, Langenberg KPS, van Tuil M, Knops RRG, van Scheltinga ST, Hiemcke‐Jiwa LS, Flucke U, Merks JHM, van Noesel MM, Tops BBJ, Hehir‐Kwa JY, Kemmeren P, Molenaar JJ, van de Wetering M, van Boxtel R, Drost J, Holstege FCP. Mesenchymal tumor organoid models recapitulate rhabdomyosarcoma subtypes. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e16001. [PMID: 35916583 PMCID: PMC9549731 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202216001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) are mesenchyme-derived tumors and the most common childhood soft tissue sarcomas. Treatment is intense, with a nevertheless poor prognosis for high-risk patients. Discovery of new therapies would benefit from additional preclinical models. Here, we describe the generation of a collection of 19 pediatric RMS tumor organoid (tumoroid) models (success rate of 41%) comprising all major subtypes. For aggressive tumors, tumoroid models can often be established within 4-8 weeks, indicating the feasibility of personalized drug screening. Molecular, genetic, and histological characterization show that the models closely resemble the original tumors, with genetic stability over extended culture periods of up to 6 months. Importantly, drug screening reflects established sensitivities and the models can be modified by CRISPR/Cas9 with TP53 knockout in an embryonal RMS model resulting in replicative stress drug sensitivity. Tumors of mesenchymal origin can therefore be used to generate organoid models, relevant for a variety of preclinical and clinical research questions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Meister
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Marian J A Groot Koerkamp
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Terezinha de Souza
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Willemijn B Breunis
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Department of Oncology and Children's Research CenterUniversity Children's Hospital ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Ewa Frazer‐Mendelewska
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Mariël Brok
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Jeff DeMartino
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Freek Manders
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Camilla Calandrini
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | - Alex Janse
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - M Emmy M Dolman
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer CentreUNSW SydneyKensingtonNSWAustralia,School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of MedicineUNSW SydneyKensingtonNSWAustralia
| | - Selma Eising
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | - Marc van Tuil
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Rutger R G Knops
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | | | - Uta Flucke
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | - Max M van Noesel
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | | | - Patrick Kemmeren
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Center for Molecular MedicineUMC Utrecht and Utrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Jan J Molenaar
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Marc van de Wetering
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Ruben van Boxtel
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Jarno Drost
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Oncode InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Frank C P Holstege
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands,Center for Molecular MedicineUMC Utrecht and Utrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Cooper GW, Hong AL. SMARCB1-Deficient Cancers: Novel Molecular Insights and Therapeutic Vulnerabilities. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153645. [PMID: 35892904 PMCID: PMC9332782 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Loss of SMARCB1 has been identified as the sole mutation in a number of rare pediatric and adult cancers, most of which have a poor prognosis despite intensive therapies including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Thus, a more robust understanding of the mechanisms driving this set of cancers is vital to improving patient treatment and outcomes. This review outlines recent advances made in our understanding of the function of SMARCB1 and how these advances have been used to discover putative therapeutic vulnerabilities. Abstract SMARCB1 is a critical component of the BAF complex that is responsible for global chromatin remodeling. Loss of SMARCB1 has been implicated in the initiation of cancers such as malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT), atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT), and, more recently, renal medullary carcinoma (RMC). These SMARCB1-deficient tumors have remarkably stable genomes, offering unique insights into the epigenetic mechanisms in cancer biology. Given the lack of druggable targets and the high mortality associated with SMARCB1-deficient tumors, a significant research effort has been directed toward understanding the mechanisms of tumor transformation and proliferation. Accumulating evidence suggests that tumorigenicity arises from aberrant enhancer and promoter regulation followed by dysfunctional transcriptional control. In this review, we outline key mechanisms by which loss of SMARCB1 may lead to tumor formation and cover how these mechanisms have been used for the design of targeted therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Garrett W. Cooper
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Andrew L. Hong
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Graf M, Interlandi M, Moreno N, Holdhof D, Göbel C, Melcher V, Mertins J, Albert TK, Kastrati D, Alfert A, Holsten T, de Faria F, Meisterernst M, Rossig C, Warmuth-Metz M, Nowak J, Meyer Zu Hörste G, Mayère C, Nef S, Johann P, Frühwald MC, Dugas M, Schüller U, Kerl K. Single-cell transcriptomics identifies potential cells of origin of MYC rhabdoid tumors. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1544. [PMID: 35318328 PMCID: PMC8941154 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29152-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdoid tumors (RT) are rare and highly aggressive pediatric neoplasms. Their epigenetically-driven intertumoral heterogeneity is well described; however, the cellular origin of RT remains an enigma. Here, we establish and characterize different genetically engineered mouse models driven under the control of distinct promoters and being active in early progenitor cell types with diverse embryonic onsets. From all models only Sox2-positive progenitor cells give rise to murine RT. Using single-cell analyses, we identify distinct cells of origin for the SHH and MYC subgroups of RT, rooting in early stages of embryogenesis. Intra- and extracranial MYC tumors harbor common genetic programs and potentially originate from fetal primordial germ cells (PGCs). Using PGC specific Smarcb1 knockout mouse models we validate that MYC RT originate from these progenitor cells. We uncover an epigenetic imbalance in MYC tumors compared to PGCs being sustained by epigenetically-driven subpopulations. Importantly, treatments with the DNA demethylating agent decitabine successfully impair tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. In summary, our work sheds light on the origin of RT and supports the clinical relevance of DNA methyltransferase inhibitors against this disease. Rhabdoid tumors (RT) are aggressive paediatric cancers with yet unknown cells of origin. Here, the authors establish genetically engineered mouse models of RT and, using single-cell RNA-seq and epigenomics, identify potential cells of origin for the SHH and MYC subtypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Graf
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Marta Interlandi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.,Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Natalia Moreno
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Dörthe Holdhof
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Göbel
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Viktoria Melcher
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Julius Mertins
- Department of Neurology, Schlosspark-Klinik, 14059, Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Tumor Biology, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Thomas K Albert
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Dennis Kastrati
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Amelie Alfert
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Till Holsten
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Tumor Biology, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Flavia de Faria
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.,Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Brasìlia, 70684-831, Brasìlia, Brazil
| | - Michael Meisterernst
- Institute of Molecular Tumor Biology, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Claudia Rossig
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Monika Warmuth-Metz
- Neuroradiological Reference Center, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Nowak
- Neuroradiological Reference Center, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,SRH Poliklinik Gera GmbH, Radiological Practice Gotha, Gotha, Germany
| | - Gerd Meyer Zu Hörste
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Chloe Mayère
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland.,iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland.,iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Johann
- Swabian Children's Cancer Center, Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Augsburg, 86156, Augsburg, Germany.,Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael C Frühwald
- Swabian Children's Cancer Center, Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Augsburg, 86156, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Martin Dugas
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.,Institute of Medical Informatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schüller
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.,Research Institute Children's Cancer Center, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kornelius Kerl
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Calandrini C, Drost J. Normal and tumor-derived organoids as a drug screening platform for tumor-specific drug vulnerabilities. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101079. [PMID: 35036959 PMCID: PMC8752949 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2021.101079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Patient-derived tumor organoids can be predictive of patient's treatment responses, and normal tissue-derived organoids allow for drug toxicity testing. Combining both types of organoids therefore enables screening for tumor-specific drug vulnerabilities. Here, we provide a detailed protocol for organoid drug screening using, as proof-of-principle, patient-derived malignant rhabdoid tumor organoids. The protocol can be adapted for drug testing on any tumor and/or normal tissue-derived organoid culture. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Calandrini et al. (2021).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Calandrini
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jarno Drost
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Roy P, van Peer SE, de Witte MM, Tytgat GAM, Karim-Kos HE, van Grotel M, van de Ven CP, Mavinkurve-Groothuis AMC, Merks JHM, Kuiper RP, Hol JA, Janssens GOR, de Krijger RR, Jongmans MCJ, Drost J, van der Steeg AFW, Littooij AS, Wijnen MHWA, van Tinteren H, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM. Characteristics and outcome of children with renal tumors in the Netherlands: The first five-year's experience of national centralization. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0261729. [PMID: 35025887 PMCID: PMC8757983 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Around 6% of all childhood malignancies represent renal tumors, of which a majority includes Wilms tumor (WT). Although survival rates have improved over the last decades, specific patients are still at risk for adverse outcome. In the Netherlands, since 2015, pediatric oncology care for renal tumors has been centralized in the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology. Here, we describe experiences of the first 5 years of centralized care and explore whether this influences the epidemiological landscape by comparing data with the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR). We identified all patients <19 years with a renal mass diagnosed between 01-01-2015 and 31-12-2019 in the Princess Máxima Center. Epidemiology, characteristics and management were analyzed. We identified 164 patients (including 1 patient who refused consent for registration), in our center with a suspicion of a renal tumor. The remaining 163 cases included WT (n = 118)/cystic partially differentiated nephroblastoma (n = 2)/nephrogenic rests only (n = 6) and non-WT (n = 37). In this period, the NCR included 138 children, 1 17-year-old patient was not referred to the Princess Máxima Center. Central radiology review (before starting treatment) was performed in 121/163 patients, and central pathology review in 148/152 patients that underwent surgery. Treatment stratification, according to SIOP/EpSSG protocols was pursued based on multidisciplinary consensus. Preoperative chemotherapy was administered in 133 patients, whereas 19 patients underwent upfront surgery. Surgery was performed in 152 patients, and from 133 biomaterial was stored. Centralization of care for children with renal tumors led to referral of all but 1 new renal tumor cases in the Netherlands, and leads to referral of very rare subtypes not registered in the NCR, that benefit from high quality diagnostics and multidisciplinary decision making. National centralization of care led to enhanced development of molecular diagnostics and other innovation-based treatments for the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prakriti Roy
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | | | - Henrike E. Karim-Kos
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organization (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Roland P. Kuiper
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Janna A. Hol
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Geert O. R. Janssens
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald R. de Krijger
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolijn C. J. Jongmans
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jarno Drost
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Annemieke S. Littooij
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht/Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital (UMCU), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Harm van Tinteren
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hasaart KA, Manders F, Ubels J, Verheul M, van Roosmalen MJ, Groenen NM, Oka R, Kuijk E, Lopes SMCDS, Boxtel RV. Human induced pluripotent stem cells display a similar mutation burden as embryonic pluripotent cells in vivo. iScience 2022; 25:103736. [PMID: 35118356 PMCID: PMC8792070 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.103736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) hold great promise for regenerative medicine, but genetic instability is a major concern. Embryonic pluripotent cells also accumulate mutations during early development, but how this relates to the mutation burden in iPSCs remains unknown. Here, we directly compared the mutation burden of cultured iPSCs with their isogenic embryonic cells during human embryogenesis. We generated developmental lineage trees of human fetuses by phylogenetic inference from somatic mutations in the genomes of multiple stem cells, which were derived from different germ layers. Using this approach, we characterized the mutations acquired pre-gastrulation and found a rate of 1.65 mutations per cell division. When cultured in hypoxic conditions, iPSCs generated from fetal stem cells of the assessed fetuses displayed a similar mutation rate and spectrum. Our results show that iPSCs maintain a genomic integrity during culture at a similar degree as their pluripotent counterparts do in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karlijn A.L. Hasaart
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Freek Manders
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Joske Ubels
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mark Verheul
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Markus J. van Roosmalen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Niels M. Groenen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rurika Oka
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ewart Kuijk
- Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Ruben van Boxtel
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Nemes K, Johann PD, Tüchert S, Melchior P, Vokuhl C, Siebert R, Furtwängler R, Frühwald MC. Current and Emerging Therapeutic Approaches for Extracranial Malignant Rhabdoid Tumors. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 14:479-498. [PMID: 35173482 PMCID: PMC8841298 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s289544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracranial malignant rhabdoid tumors (extracranial MRT) are rare, highly aggressive malignancies affecting mainly infants and children younger than 3 years. Common anatomic sites comprise the kidneys (RTK – rhabdoid tumor of kidney) and other soft tissues (eMRT – extracranial, extrarenal malignant rhabdoid tumor). The genetic origin of these diseases is linked to biallelic pathogenic variants in the genes SMARCB1, or rarely SMARCA4, encoding subunits of the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex. Even if extracranial MRT seem to be quite homogeneous, recent epigenome analyses reveal a certain degree of epigenetic heterogeneity. Use of intensified therapies has modestly improved survival for extracranial MRT. Patients at standard risk profit from conventional therapies; most high-risk patients still experience a dismal course and often therapy resistance. Discoveries of clinical and molecular hallmarks and the exploration of experimental therapeutic approaches open exciting perspectives for clinical and molecularly stratified experimental treatment approaches. To ultimately improve the outcome of patients with extracranial MRTs, they need to be characterized and stratified clinically and molecularly. High-risk patients need novel therapeutic approaches including selective experimental agents in phase I/II clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Nemes
- Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Swabian Children's Cancer Center, University Medical Center Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Pascal D Johann
- Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Swabian Children's Cancer Center, University Medical Center Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany.,Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Tüchert
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Patrick Melchior
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Christian Vokuhl
- Section of Pediatric Pathology, Department of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Reiner Siebert
- Institute of Human Genetics, Ulm University & Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Rhoikos Furtwängler
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Michael C Frühwald
- Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Swabian Children's Cancer Center, University Medical Center Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Induction of senescence-associated secretory phenotype underlies the therapeutic efficacy of PRC2 inhibition in cancer. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:155. [PMID: 35169119 PMCID: PMC8847585 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04601-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The methyltransferase Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2), composed of EZH2, SUZ12, and EED subunits, is associated with transcriptional repression via tri-methylation of histone H3 on lysine 27 residue (H3K27me3). PRC2 is a valid drug target, as the EZH2 gain-of-function mutations identified in patient samples drive tumorigenesis. PRC2 inhibitors have been discovered and demonstrated anti-cancer efficacy in clinic. However, their pharmacological mechanisms are poorly understood. MAK683 is a potent EED inhibitor in clinical development. Focusing on MAK683-sensitive tumors with SMARCB1 or ARID1A loss, we identified a group of PRC2 target genes with high H3K27me3 signal through epigenomic and transcriptomic analysis. Multiple senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) genes, such as GATA4, MMP2/10, ITGA2 and GBP1, are in this group besides previously identified CDKN2A/p16. Upon PRC2 inhibition, the de-repression of SASP genes is detected in multiple sensitive models and contributes to decreased Ki67+, extracellular matrix (ECM) reorganization, senescence associated inflammation and tumor regression even in CDKN2A/p16 knockout tumor. And the combination of PRC2 inhibitor and CDK4/6 inhibitor leads to better effect. The genes potential regulated by PRC2 in neuroblastoma samples exhibited significant enrichment of ECM and senescence associated inflammation, supporting the clinical relevance of our results. Altogether, our results unravel the pharmacological mechanism of PRC2 inhibitors and propose a combination strategy for MAK683 and other PRC2 drugs. ![]()
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhu M, Shahbazi M, Martin A, Zhang C, Sozen B, Borsos M, Mandelbaum RS, Paulson RJ, Mole MA, Esbert M, Titus S, Scott RT, Campbell A, Fishel S, Gradinaru V, Zhao H, Wu K, Chen ZJ, Seli E, de Los Santos MJ, Zernicka Goetz M. Human embryo polarization requires PLC signaling to mediate trophectoderm specification. eLife 2021; 10:65068. [PMID: 34569938 PMCID: PMC8514238 DOI: 10.7554/elife.65068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Apico-basal polarization of cells within the embryo is critical for the segregation of distinct lineages during mammalian development. Polarized cells become the trophectoderm (TE), which forms the placenta, and apolar cells become the inner cell mass (ICM), the founding population of the fetus. The cellular and molecular mechanisms leading to polarization of the human embryo and its timing during embryogenesis have remained unknown. Here, we show that human embryo polarization occurs in two steps: it begins with the apical enrichment of F-actin and is followed by the apical accumulation of the PAR complex. This two-step polarization process leads to the formation of an apical domain at the 8-16 cell stage. Using RNA interference, we show that apical domain formation requires Phospholipase C (PLC) signaling, specifically the enzymes PLCB1 and PLCE1, from the eight-cell stage onwards. Finally, we show that although expression of the critical TE differentiation marker GATA3 can be initiated independently of embryo polarization, downregulation of PLCB1 and PLCE1 decreases GATA3 expression through a reduction in the number of polarized cells. Therefore, apical domain formation reinforces a TE fate. The results we present here demonstrate how polarization is triggered to regulate the first lineage segregation in human embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhu
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Department of Genetics, Boston, United States
| | - Marta Shahbazi
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology. Francis Crick Avenue, Biomedical Campus., Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Angel Martin
- IVIRMA Valencia, IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | - Chuanxin Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Berna Sozen
- Developmental Plasticity and Self-Organization Group, California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Pasadena, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Department of Genetics, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Mate Borsos
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering,, Pasadena, United States
| | - Rachel S Mandelbaum
- USC Fertility, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J Paulson
- USC Fertility, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, United Kingdom
| | - Matteo A Mole
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Marga Esbert
- IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, United States
| | - Shiny Titus
- IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, United States
| | | | - Alison Campbell
- CARE Fertility Group, John Webster House, 6 Lawrence Drive, Nottingham Business Park, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Fishel
- CARE Fertility Group, John Webster House, 6 Lawrence Drive, Nottingham Business Park, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Viviana Gradinaru
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology. Francis Crick Avenue, Biomedical Campus., Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Han Zhao
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Keliang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Emre Seli
- IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, New Haven, CT, United States
| | | | - Magdalena Zernicka Goetz
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Developmental Plasticity and Self-Organization Group, California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Pasadena, United States
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Calandrini C, van Hooff SR, Paassen I, Ayyildiz D, Derakhshan S, Dolman MEM, Langenberg KPS, van de Ven M, de Heus C, Liv N, Kool M, de Krijger RR, Tytgat GAM, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Molenaar JJ, Drost J. Organoid-based drug screening reveals neddylation as therapeutic target for malignant rhabdoid tumors. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109568. [PMID: 34433038 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant rhabdoid tumors (MRTs) represent one of the most aggressive childhood malignancies. No effective treatment options are available, and prognosis is, therefore, dismal. Previous studies have demonstrated that tumor organoids capture the heterogeneity of patient tumors and can be used to predict patient response to therapy. Here, we perform drug screening on patient-derived normal and tumor organoids to identify MRT-specific therapeutic vulnerabilities. We identify neddylation inhibitor MLN4924 as a potential therapeutic agent. Mechanistically, we find increased neddylation in MRT organoids and tissues and show that MLN4924 induces a cytotoxic response via upregulation of the unfolded protein response. Lastly, we demonstrate in vivo efficacy in an MRT PDX mouse model, in which single-agent MLN4924 treatment significantly extends survival. Our study demonstrates that organoids can be used to find drugs selectively targeting tumor cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed and proposes neddylation inhibition as a therapeutic strategy in MRT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Calandrini
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sander R van Hooff
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Irene Paassen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Dilara Ayyildiz
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sepide Derakhshan
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - M Emmy M Dolman
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Karin P S Langenberg
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marieke van de Ven
- Preclinical Intervention Unit of the Mouse Clinic for Cancer and Ageing (MCCA), NKI, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cecilia de Heus
- Cell Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nalan Liv
- Cell Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marcel Kool
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center DKFZ and German Cancer Consortium DKTK, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ronald R de Krijger
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; University Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Godelieve A M Tytgat
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Jan J Molenaar
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jarno Drost
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Young MD, Mitchell TJ, Custers L, Margaritis T, Morales-Rodriguez F, Kwakwa K, Khabirova E, Kildisiute G, Oliver TRW, de Krijger RR, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Comitani F, Piapi A, Bugallo-Blanco E, Thevanesan C, Burke C, Prigmore E, Ambridge K, Roberts K, Braga FAV, Coorens THH, Del Valle I, Wilbrey-Clark A, Mamanova L, Stewart GD, Gnanapragasam VJ, Rampling D, Sebire N, Coleman N, Hook L, Warren A, Haniffa M, Kool M, Pfister SM, Achermann JC, He X, Barker RA, Shlien A, Bayraktar OA, Teichmann SA, Holstege FC, Meyer KB, Drost J, Straathof K, Behjati S. Single cell derived mRNA signals across human kidney tumors. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3896. [PMID: 34162837 PMCID: PMC8222373 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23949-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells may share some patterns of gene expression with their cell of origin, providing clues into the differentiation state and origin of cancer. Here, we study the differentiation state and cellular origin of 1300 childhood and adult kidney tumors. Using single cell mRNA reference maps of normal tissues, we quantify reference "cellular signals" in each tumor. Quantifying global differentiation, we find that childhood tumors exhibit fetal cellular signals, replacing the presumption of "fetalness" with a quantitative measure of immaturity. By contrast, in adult cancers our assessment refutes the suggestion of dedifferentiation towards a fetal state in most cases. We find an intimate connection between developmental mesenchymal populations and childhood renal tumors. We demonstrate the diagnostic potential of our approach with a case study of a cryptic renal tumor. Our findings provide a cellular definition of human renal tumors through an approach that is broadly applicable to human cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Young
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Thomas J Mitchell
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Lars Custers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Francisco Morales-Rodriguez
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kwasi Kwakwa
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eleonora Khabirova
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gerda Kildisiute
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Thomas R W Oliver
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ronald R de Krijger
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Federico Comitani
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alice Piapi
- UCL Great Ormond Street Hospital Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | | | | | - Christina Burke
- UCL Great Ormond Street Hospital Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Elena Prigmore
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kirsty Ambridge
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kenny Roberts
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Tim H H Coorens
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ignacio Del Valle
- UCL Great Ormond Street Hospital Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Anna Wilbrey-Clark
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Lira Mamanova
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Grant D Stewart
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Vincent J Gnanapragasam
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Urology Translational Research and Clinical Trials office, Cambridge Biomedical Campus Cambridge CB2 0QQ University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Dyanne Rampling
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Neil Sebire
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital BRC and Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Nicholas Coleman
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Liz Hook
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anne Warren
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Muzlifah Haniffa
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Dermatology and NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Intitute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Marcel Kool
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Hopp Children´s Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan M Pfister
- Hopp Children´s Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg University Hospital, Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - John C Achermann
- UCL Great Ormond Street Hospital Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Xiaoling He
- MRC-WT Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Roger A Barker
- MRC-WT Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Adam Shlien
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Paediatric Laboratory Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Omer A Bayraktar
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sarah A Teichmann
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Frank C Holstege
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kerstin B Meyer
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jarno Drost
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Karin Straathof
- UCL Great Ormond Street Hospital Institute of Child Health, London, UK.
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Sam Behjati
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK.
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| |
Collapse
|