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Krenz B, Lee J, Kannan T, Eilers M. Immune evasion: An imperative and consequence of MYC deregulation. Mol Oncol 2024. [PMID: 38957016 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
MYC has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a wide range of human tumors and has been described for many years as a transcription factor that regulates genes with pleiotropic functions to promote tumorigenic growth. However, despite extensive efforts to identify specific target genes of MYC that alone could be responsible for promoting tumorigenesis, the field is yet to reach a consensus whether this is the crucial function of MYC. Recent work shifts the view on MYC's function from being a gene-specific transcription factor to an essential stress resilience factor. In highly proliferating cells, MYC preserves cell integrity by promoting DNA repair at core promoters, protecting stalled replication forks, and/or preventing transcription-replication conflicts. Furthermore, an increasing body of evidence demonstrates that MYC not only promotes tumorigenesis by driving cell-autonomous growth, but also enables tumors to evade the host's immune system. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of how MYC impairs antitumor immunity and why this function is evolutionarily hard-wired to the biology of the MYC protein family. We show why the cell-autonomous and immune evasive functions of MYC are mutually dependent and discuss ways to target MYC proteins in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Krenz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Theodor Boveri Institute, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Early Career Center, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jongkuen Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Theodor Boveri Institute, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Toshitha Kannan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Theodor Boveri Institute, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martin Eilers
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Theodor Boveri Institute, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, Würzburg, Germany
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2
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LaBella KA, Hsu WH, Li J, Qi Y, Liu Y, Liu J, Wu CC, Liu Y, Song Z, Lin Y, Blecher JM, Jiang S, Shang X, Han J, Spring DJ, Zhang J, Xia Y, DePinho RA. Telomere dysfunction alters intestinal stem cell dynamics to promote cancer. Dev Cell 2024; 59:1475-1486.e5. [PMID: 38574731 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.020] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Telomere dynamics are linked to aging hallmarks, and age-associated telomere loss fuels the development of epithelial cancers. In Apc-mutant mice, the onset of DNA damage associated with telomere dysfunction has been shown to accelerate adenoma initiation via unknown mechanisms. Here, we observed that Apc-mutant mice engineered to experience telomere dysfunction show accelerated adenoma formation resulting from augmented cell competition and clonal expansion. Mechanistically, telomere dysfunction induces the repression of EZH2, resulting in the derepression of Wnt antagonists, which causes the differentiation of adjacent stem cells and a relative growth advantage to Apc-deficient telomere dysfunctional cells. Correspondingly, in this mouse model, GSK3β inhibition countered the actions of Wnt antagonists on intestinal stem cells, resulting in impaired adenoma formation of telomere dysfunctional Apc-mutant cells. Thus, telomere dysfunction contributes to cancer initiation through altered stem cell dynamics, identifying an interception strategy for human APC-mutant cancers with shortened telomeres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle A LaBella
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Wen-Hao Hsu
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jiexi Li
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yutao Qi
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yonghong Liu
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Chia-Chin Wu
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zingzhi Song
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yiyun Lin
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jonathan M Blecher
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shan Jiang
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaoying Shang
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jincheng Han
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Denise J Spring
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yan Xia
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ronald A DePinho
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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3
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Huang J, Yin Q, Wang Y, Zhou X, Guo Y, Tang Y, Cheng R, Yu X, Zhang J, Huang C, Huang Z, Zhang J, Guo Z, Huo X, Sun Y, Li Y, Wang H, Yang J, Xue L. EZH2 Inhibition Enhances PD-L1 Protein Stability Through USP22-Mediated Deubiquitination in Colorectal Cancer. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308045. [PMID: 38520088 PMCID: PMC11187912 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
The regulation of PD-L1 is the key question, which largely determines the outcome of the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) based therapy. However, besides the transcription level, the protein stability of PD-L1 is closely correlated with its function and has drawn increasing attention. In this study, EZH2 inhibition enhances PD-L1 expression and protein stability, and the deubiquitinase ubiquitin-specific peptidase 22 (USP22) is identified as a key mediator in this process. EZH2 inhibition transcriptionally upregulates USP22 expression, and upregulated USP22 further stabilizes PD-L1. Importantly, a combination of EZH2 inhibitors with anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade therapy improves the tumor microenvironment, enhances sensitivity to immunotherapy, and exerts synergistic anticancer effects. In addition, knocking down USP22 can potentially enhance the therapeutic efficacy of EZH2 inhibitors on colon cancer. These findings unveil the novel role of EZH2 inhibitors in tumor immune evasion by upregulating PD-L1, and this drawback can be compensated by combining ICI immunotherapy. Therefore, these findings provide valuable insights into the EZH2-USP22-PD-L1 regulatory axis, shedding light on the optimization of combining both immune checkpoint blockade and EZH2 inhibitor-based epigenetic therapies to achieve more efficacies and accuracy in cancer treatment.
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Huang KCY, Chiang SF, Chang HY, Hong WZ, Chen JY, Lee PC, Liang JA, Ke TW, Peng SL, Shiau AC, Chen TW, Yang PC, Chen WTL, Chao KSC. Colorectal cancer-specific IFNβ delivery overcomes dysfunctional dsRNA-mediated type I interferon signaling to increase the abscopal effect of radiotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008515. [PMID: 38749537 PMCID: PMC11097864 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008515] [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: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-intrinsic type I interferon (IFN-I) production triggered by radiotherapy (RT) is mainly dependent on cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA)-mediated cGAS/STING signaling and increases cancer immunogenicity and enhances the antitumor immune response to increase therapeutic efficacy. However, cGAS/STING deficiency in colorectal cancer (CRC) may suppress the RT-induced antitumor immunity. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the importance of the dsRNA-mediated antitumor immune response induced by RT in patients with CRC. METHODS Cytosolic dsRNA level and its sensors were evaluated via cell-based assays (co-culture assay, confocal microscopy, pharmacological inhibition and immunofluorescent staining) and in vivo experiments. Biopsies and surgical tissues from patients with CRC who received preoperative chemoradiotherapy (neoCRT) were collected for multiplex cytokine assays, immunohistochemical analysis and SNP genotyping. We also generated a cancer-specific adenovirus-associated virus (AAV)-IFNβ1 construct to evaluate its therapeutic efficacy in combination with RT, and the immune profiles were analyzed by flow cytometry and RNA-seq. RESULTS Our studies revealed that RT stimulates the autonomous release of dsRNA from cancer cells to activate TLR3-mediated IFN-I signatures to facilitate antitumor immune responses. Patients harboring a dysfunctional TLR3 variant had reduced serum levels of IFN-I-related cytokines and intratumoral CD8+ immune cells and shorter disease-free survival following neoCRT treatment. The engineered cancer-targeted construct AAV-IFNβ1 significantly improved the response to RT, leading to systematic eradication of distant tumors and prolonged survival in defective TLR3 preclinical models. CONCLUSION Our results support that increasing cancer-intrinsic IFNβ1 expression is an immunotherapeutic strategy that enhances the RT-induced antitumor immune response in locally patients with advanced CRC with dysfunctional TLR3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Chih-Yang Huang
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Translation Research Core, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Fen Chiang
- Lab of Precision Medicine, Feng-Yuan Hospital Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yu Chang
- Translation Research Core, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Proton Cancer, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ze Hong
- Proton Cancer, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jhen-Yu Chen
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Translation Research Core, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Proton Cancer, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Chih Lee
- Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ji-An Liang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tao-Wei Ke
- Department of Colorectal Cancer, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Lei Peng
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - An-Cheng Shiau
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Proton Cancer, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Wei Chen
- Department of Pathology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Chen Yang
- Proton Cancer, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - William Tzu-Liang Chen
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Colorectal Cancer, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, China Medical University HsinChu Hospital, China Medical University Hospital, HsinChu, Taiwan
| | - K S Clifford Chao
- Proton Cancer, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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Capuozzo M, Santorsola M, Ianniello M, Ferrara F, Zovi A, Petrillo N, Castiello R, Fantuz MR, Ottaiano A, Savarese G. Innovative Drug Modalities for the Treatment of Advanced Prostate Cancer. Diseases 2024; 12:87. [PMID: 38785742 PMCID: PMC11119780 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12050087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer, a prevalent malignancy affecting the prostate gland, is a significant global health concern. Androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) has proven effective in controlling advanced disease, with over 50% of patients surviving at the 10-year mark. However, a diverse spectrum of responses exists, and resistance to ADT may emerge over time. This underscores the need to explore innovative treatment strategies for effectively managing prostate cancer progression. Ongoing research endeavors persist in unraveling the complexity of prostate cancer and fostering the development of biologic and innovative approaches, including immunotherapies and targeted therapies. This review aims to provide a valuable synthesis of the dynamic landscape of emerging drug modalities in this context. Interestingly, the complexities posed by prostate cancer not only present a formidable challenge but also serve as a model and an opportunity for translational research and innovative therapies in the field of oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Capuozzo
- Coordinamento Farmaceutico, ASL-Naples-3, 80056 Ercolano, Italy; (M.C.); (F.F.)
| | - Mariachiara Santorsola
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, IRCCS “G. Pascale”, Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Monica Ianniello
- AMES, Centro Polidiagnostico Strumentale srl, Via Padre Carmine Fico 24, 80013 Casalnuovo Di Napoli, Italy; (M.I.); (N.P.); (R.C.); (M.R.F.)
| | - Francesco Ferrara
- Coordinamento Farmaceutico, ASL-Naples-3, 80056 Ercolano, Italy; (M.C.); (F.F.)
| | - Andrea Zovi
- Ministry of Health, Viale Giorgio Ribotta 5, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Nadia Petrillo
- AMES, Centro Polidiagnostico Strumentale srl, Via Padre Carmine Fico 24, 80013 Casalnuovo Di Napoli, Italy; (M.I.); (N.P.); (R.C.); (M.R.F.)
| | - Rosa Castiello
- AMES, Centro Polidiagnostico Strumentale srl, Via Padre Carmine Fico 24, 80013 Casalnuovo Di Napoli, Italy; (M.I.); (N.P.); (R.C.); (M.R.F.)
| | - Maria Rosaria Fantuz
- AMES, Centro Polidiagnostico Strumentale srl, Via Padre Carmine Fico 24, 80013 Casalnuovo Di Napoli, Italy; (M.I.); (N.P.); (R.C.); (M.R.F.)
| | - Alessandro Ottaiano
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, IRCCS “G. Pascale”, Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Savarese
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, IRCCS “G. Pascale”, Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy;
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6
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Terrazzan A, Vanini R, Ancona P, Bianchi N, Taccioli C, Aguiari G. State-of-the-art in transposable element modulation affected by drugs in malignant prostatic cancer cells. J Cell Biochem 2024; 125:e30557. [PMID: 38501160 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30557] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Over recent years, the investigation of transposable elements (TEs) has granted researchers a deeper comprehension of their characteristics and functions, particularly regarding their significance in the mechanisms contributing to cancer development. This manuscript focuses on prostate carcinoma cell lines and offers a comprehensive review intended to scrutinize the associations and interactions between TEs and genes, as well as their response to treatment using various chemical drugs, emphasizing their involvement in cancer progression. We assembled a compendium of articles retrieved from the PubMed database to construct networks demonstrating correlations with genes and pharmaceuticals. In doing so, we linked the transposition of certain TE types to the expression of specific transcripts directly implicated in carcinogenesis. Additionally, we underline that treatment employing different drugs revealed unique patterns of TE reactivation. Our hypothesis gathers the current understanding and guides research toward evidence-based investigations, emphasizing the association between antiviral drugs, chemotherapy, and the reduced expression of TEs in patients affected by prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Terrazzan
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Advanced Therapy Technologies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Riccardo Vanini
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pietro Ancona
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Bianchi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cristian Taccioli
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health (MAPS), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Gianluca Aguiari
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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7
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Li X, Tian S, Shi H, Ta N, Ni X, Bai C, Zhu Z, Chen Y, Shi D, Huang H, Chen L, Hu Z, Qu L, Fang Y, Bai C. The golden key to open mystery boxes of SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated thoracic tumor: focusing immunotherapy, tumor microenvironment and epigenetic regulation. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:687-697. [PMID: 38347129 PMCID: PMC11101339 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00732-4] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated thoracic tumor is extremely invasive. This tumor with poor prognosis is easily confused with SMARCA4-deficent non-small cell lung cancer or sarcoma. Standard and efficient treatment has not been established. In this review, we summarized the etiology, pathogenesis and diagnosis, reviewed current and proposed innovative strategies for treatment and improving prognosis. Immunotherapy, targeting tumor microenvironment and epigenetic regulator have improved the prognosis of cancer patients. We summarized clinicopathological features and immunotherapy strategies and analyzed the progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients with SMARCA4-UT who received immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). In addition, we proposed the feasibility of epigenetic regulation in the treatment of SMARCA4-UT. To our knowledge, this is the first review that aims to explore innovative strategies for targeting tumor microenvironment and epigenetic regulation and identify potential benefit population for immunotherapy to improve the prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, China
| | - Sen Tian
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, No. 906 Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Joint Logistic Support Force, Ningbo, China
| | - Hui Shi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China.
| | - Na Ta
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang Ni
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
| | - Chenguang Bai
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
| | - Zhanli Zhu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
| | - Yilin Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
| | - Dongchen Shi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
| | - Haidong Huang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
| | - Longpei Chen
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenhong Hu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Qu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, China
| | - Yao Fang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, China
| | - Chong Bai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital), Shanghai, China.
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8
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Xu W, Wu Y, Zhang G. NEAT1 promotes the progression of prostate cancer by targeting the miR-582-5p/EZH2 regulatory axis. Cytotechnology 2024; 76:231-246. [PMID: 38495291 PMCID: PMC10940559 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-023-00612-z] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In several forms of malignant tumors, nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1), a lncRNA, has been identified to play an important role. NEAT1's regulation patterns in prostate cancer (PCa) are, however, mainly unknown. This study was aimed to evaluate and study the roles and regulatory mechanisms of NEAT1 in PCa. NEAT1, miR-582-5p, and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) expression were detected by qRT-PCR. The PCa cells' invasive, migrative, and proliferative activities in vitro were assessed using transwell migration and invasion, wound-healing, cloning creation, and CCK-8 assays. In the present study, impaired proliferative, migrative, and invasive capacities were observed in the NEAT1-deficient PCa (PC3 and LNCaP) cells. Further mechanistic studies found that NEAT1 performs its function through sponging miR-582-5p. Furthermore, EZH2 was confirmed to be the downstream target gene of miRNA-582-5p. The impaired progression caused by NEAT1 deficiency in PCa cells was significantly restored by the inhibition of miR-582-5p, while these effects were largely abolished by the deletion of EZH2. Finally, the xenograft nude mouse model showed that knocking down the expression of NEAT1 suppressed the growth of PCa. In conclusion, NEAT1 promotes the progression of PCa by controlling the miR-582-5p and miR-582-5p-mediated EZH2. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10616-023-00612-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqiang Xu
- Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, No.199 Ren’ai Road, Suzhou Industrial Park, 215000 Suzhou, Jiangsu Province China
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, No. 633 Longhua Road, Huaishang District, 233000 Bengbu, Anhui Province China
| | - Yu Wu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, No. 633 Longhua Road, Huaishang District, 233000 Bengbu, Anhui Province China
| | - Guoxi Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, No. 23 Qingnian Road, Zhanggong District, 341000 Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province China
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9
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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.
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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
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10
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Guerrero-Ochoa P, Rodríguez-Zapater S, Anel A, Esteban LM, Camón-Fernández A, Espilez-Ortiz R, Gil-Sanz MJ, Borque-Fernando Á. Prostate Cancer and the Mevalonate Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2152. [PMID: 38396837 PMCID: PMC10888820 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042152] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Antineoplastic therapies for prostate cancer (PCa) have traditionally centered around the androgen receptor (AR) pathway, which has demonstrated a significant role in oncogenesis. Nevertheless, it is becoming progressively apparent that therapeutic strategies must diversify their focus due to the emergence of resistance mechanisms that the tumor employs when subjected to monomolecular treatments. This review illustrates how the dysregulation of the lipid metabolic pathway constitutes a survival strategy adopted by tumors to evade eradication efforts. Integrating this aspect into oncological management could prove valuable in combating PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Guerrero-Ochoa
- Health Research Institute of Aragon Foundation, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (A.C.-F.); (R.E.-O.); (M.J.G.-S.)
| | - Sergio Rodríguez-Zapater
- Minimally Invasive Research Group (GITMI), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Alberto Anel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Luis Mariano Esteban
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Escuela Universitaria Politécnica de La Almunia, Institute for Biocomputation and Physic of Complex Systems, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50100 La Almunia de Doña Godina, Spain
| | - Alejandro Camón-Fernández
- Health Research Institute of Aragon Foundation, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (A.C.-F.); (R.E.-O.); (M.J.G.-S.)
| | - Raquel Espilez-Ortiz
- Health Research Institute of Aragon Foundation, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (A.C.-F.); (R.E.-O.); (M.J.G.-S.)
- Department of Urology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Area of Urology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María Jesús Gil-Sanz
- Health Research Institute of Aragon Foundation, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (A.C.-F.); (R.E.-O.); (M.J.G.-S.)
- Department of Urology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ángel Borque-Fernando
- Health Research Institute of Aragon Foundation, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (A.C.-F.); (R.E.-O.); (M.J.G.-S.)
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Escuela Universitaria Politécnica de La Almunia, Institute for Biocomputation and Physic of Complex Systems, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50100 La Almunia de Doña Godina, Spain
- Department of Urology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Area of Urology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
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11
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Chen G, Zheng D, Zhou Y, Du S, Zeng Z. Olaparib enhances radiation-induced systemic anti-tumor effects via activating STING-chemokine signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2024; 582:216507. [PMID: 38048841 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Although Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors have been clinically approved for cancers with BRCA mutations and are known to augment radiotherapy responses, their roles in promoting the abscopal effect and mediating immunotherapy in BRCA-proficient hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain underexplored. Our study elucidates that olaparib enhances the radio-sensitivity of HCC cells. Coadministration of olaparib and irradiation induces significant DNA damage by generating double-strand breaks (DSBs), as revealed both in vitro and in immune-deficient mice. These DSBs activate the cGAS-STING pathway, initiating immunogenic cell death in abscopal tumors. STING activation reprograms the immune microenvironment in the abscopal tumors, triggering the release of type I interferon and chemokines, including CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, and CCL5. This in turn amplifies T cell priming against tumor neoantigens, leading to an influx of activated, neoantigen-specific CD8+ T-cells within the abscopal tumors. Furthermore, olaparib attenuated the immune exhaustion induced by radiation and enhances the responsiveness of HCC to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Collectively, our data advocate that a synergistic regimen of PARP inhibitors and radiotherapy can strategically reinforce both local (primary) and systemic (abscopal) tumor control, bolstering HCC susceptibility to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genwen Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Danxue Zheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yimin Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Shisuo Du
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Zhaochong Zeng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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12
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Miyahira AK, Soule HR. The 29th Annual Prostate Cancer Foundation Scientific Retreat Report. Prostate 2024; 84:113-130. [PMID: 37915138 DOI: 10.1002/pros.24640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 29th Annual Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) Scientific Retreat was held from October 27 to 29, 2022, at the Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, CA. This was the first-ever hybrid PCF Retreat. METHODS The Annual PCF Scientific Retreat is a prominent international scientific gathering centered on groundbreaking, unpublished, and influential studies in basic, translational, and clinical prostate cancer research. It also covers research from related fields with a strong potential for influencing prostate cancer research and patient care. RESULTS Key areas of research that were focused on at the 2022 PCF Retreat included: (i) the contributions of molecular and genomic factors to prostate cancer disparities; (ii) novel clinical trial updates; (iii) lessons from primary prostate cancer; (iv) lessons from single-cell studies; (v) genetic, epigenetic, epitranscriptomic and posttranslational mechanisms and clinical heterogeneity in prostate cancer; (vi) biology of neuroendocrine and lineage-plastic prostate cancer; (vii) next generation prostate cancer theranostics and combination therapies; (viii) the biology and therapeutic potential of targeting phosphoinositide 3-kinases pathways; (ix) combining immunomodulatory treatments for prostate cancer; (x) novel gamma delta (γδ) T-cell therapy platforms for oncology; and (xi) lessons from other cancers. CONCLUSIONS This article provides a summary of the presentations from the 2022 PCF Scientific Retreat. By disseminating this knowledge, we hope to enhance our understanding of the present research landscape and guide future strides in both prostate cancer research and patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea K Miyahira
- Science Department, Prostate Cancer Foundation, Santa Monica, California, USA
| | - Howard R Soule
- Science Department, Prostate Cancer Foundation, Santa Monica, California, USA
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13
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Hu X, Li G, Li S, Wang Q, Wang Y, Zhang P, Yang T, Yang B, Yu L, Liu Z. TTK inhibition activates STING signal and promotes anti-PD1 immunotherapy in breast cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 694:149388. [PMID: 38150917 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.149388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Despite progress in the application of checkpoint immunotherapy against various tumors, attempts to utilize immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) agents in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) have yielded limited clinical benefits. The low overall response rate of checkpoint immunotherapy in TNBC may be attributed to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we investigated the role of mitogen-associated kinase TTK in reprogramming immune microenvironment in TNBC. Notably, TTK inhibition by BAY-1217389 induced DNA damage and the formation of micronuclei containing dsDNA in the cytosol, resulting in elicition of STING signal pathway and promoted antitumor immunity via the infiltration and activation of CD8+ T cells. Moreover, TTK inhibition also upregulated the expression of PD-L1, demonstrating a synergistic effect with anti-PD1 therapy in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. Taken together, TTK inhibition facilitated anti-tumor immunity mediated by T cells and enhanced sensitivity to PD-1 blockade, providing a rationale for the combining TTK inhibitors with immune checkpoint blockade in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Hu
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Guangmei Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Sisi Li
- Department of Breast Cancer, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Qiwei Wang
- Yangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yangzhou, 225007, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuerong Wang
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Western Theater Command Air Force Hospital of PLA, Chengdu, 610083, Sichuan, China
| | - Peidong Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Tianqiong Yang
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 6091248, Sichuan, China
| | - Luoting Yu
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Zhihao Liu
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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14
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Li D, Liang H, Wei Y, Xiao H, Peng X, Pan W. Exploring the potential of histone demethylase inhibition in multi-therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:115999. [PMID: 38043489 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Histone demethylases play a critical role in gene transcription regulation and have been implicated in cancer. Numerous reports have highlighted the overexpression of histone demethylases, such as LSD1 and JmjC, in various malignant tumor tissues, identifying them as effective therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Despite many histone demethylase inhibitors entering clinical trials, their clinical efficacy has been limited. Therefore, combination therapies based on histone demethylase inhibitors, along with other modulators like dual-acting inhibitors, have gained significant attention and made notable progress in recent years. In this review, we provide an overview of recent advances in drug discovery targeting histone demethylases, focusing specifically on drug combination therapy and histone demethylases-targeting dual inhibitors. We discuss the rational design, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and clinical status of these approaches. Additionally, we summarize the co-crystal structures of LSD1 inhibitors and their target proteins as well as describe the corresponding binding interactions. Finally, we also provided the challenges and future directions for utilizing histone demethylases in cancer therapy, such as PROTACs and molecular glue etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Hailiu Liang
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Yifei Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Hao Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
| | - Xiaopeng Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
| | - Wanyi Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
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15
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Zaalberg A, Pottendorfer E, Zwart W, Bergman AM. It Takes Two to Tango: The Interplay between Prostate Cancer and Its Microenvironment from an Epigenetic Perspective. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:294. [PMID: 38254784 PMCID: PMC10813511 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Consequently, there is an urgent unmet need for novel treatment avenues. In addition to somatic genetic alterations, deviations in the epigenetic landscape of cancer cells and their tumor microenvironment (TME) are critical drivers of prostate cancer initiation and progression. Unlike genomic mutations, epigenetic modifications are potentially reversible. Therefore, the inhibition of aberrant epigenetic modifications represents an attractive and exciting novel treatment strategy for castration-resistant prostate cancer patients. Moreover, drugs targeting the epigenome also exhibit synergistic interactions with conventional therapeutics by directly enhancing their anti-tumorigenic properties by "priming" the tumor and tumor microenvironment to increase drug sensitivity. This review summarizes the major epigenetic alterations in prostate cancer and its TME, and their involvement in prostate tumorigenesis, and discusses the impact of epigenome-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anniek Zaalberg
- Division of Oncogenomics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.Z.); (E.P.)
| | - Elisabeth Pottendorfer
- Division of Oncogenomics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.Z.); (E.P.)
| | - Wilbert Zwart
- Division of Oncogenomics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.Z.); (E.P.)
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute
| | - Andries M. Bergman
- Division of Oncogenomics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.Z.); (E.P.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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16
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Wang Y, Liu F, Du X, Shi J, Yu R, Li S, Na R, Zhao Y, Zhou M, Guo Y, Cheng L, Wang G, Zheng T. Combination of Anti-PD-1 and Electroacupuncture Induces a Potent Antitumor Immune Response in Microsatellite-Stable Colorectal Cancer. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:26-35. [PMID: 37956404 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitors are ineffective against microsatellite-stable (MSS) colorectal cancer. Electroacupuncture (EA) has oncosuppressive and immunomodulatory properties. Here, we investigated the antitumor effects of EA and explored the feasibility of EA combined with anti-PD-1 in MSS colorectal cancer. Results showed that EA exerted its antitumor effect in an intensity-specific manner, and moderate-intensity EA (1.0 mA) induced maximal tumor inhibition. EA enhanced antitumor immune responses by increasing lymphocytes and granzyme B (GzmB) levels, as well as activating the stimulator of IFN genes (STING) pathway. EA combined with anti-PD-1 showed superior efficacy compared with either monotherapy in multiple MSS colorectal cancer mouse models. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that cotreatment reprogrammed the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), as characterized by enhancement of cytotoxic functions. Mechanically, we found that the potentiated effect of EA was dependent upon the STING pathway. Collectively, EA reshapes the TIME of MSS colorectal cancer and sensitizes tumors to anti-PD-1 in a STING pathway-dependent manner. These results provide a mechanistic rationale for using EA as an immunomodulatory strategy to improve the clinical efficacy of anti-PD-1 in MSS colorectal cancer. EA is safe, well-tolerated, and feasible for clinical translation as a promising strategy for treating MSS colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Fengyi Liu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoxue Du
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Jiaqi Shi
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Rui Yu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Ruisi Na
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Meng Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Ying Guo
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Liang Cheng
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Guangyu Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Tongsen Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Cancer Institute, Harbin, P. R. China
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17
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Mendez-Dorantes C, Burns KH. LINE-1 retrotransposition and its deregulation in cancers: implications for therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dev 2023; 37:948-967. [PMID: 38092519 PMCID: PMC10760644 DOI: 10.1101/gad.351051.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Long interspersed element 1 (LINE-1) is the only protein-coding transposon that is active in humans. LINE-1 propagates in the genome using RNA intermediates via retrotransposition. This activity has resulted in LINE-1 sequences occupying approximately one-fifth of our genome. Although most copies of LINE-1 are immobile, ∼100 copies are retrotransposition-competent. Retrotransposition is normally limited via epigenetic silencing, DNA repair, and other host defense mechanisms. In contrast, LINE-1 overexpression and retrotransposition are hallmarks of cancers. Here, we review mechanisms of LINE-1 regulation and how LINE-1 may promote genetic heterogeneity in tumors. Finally, we discuss therapeutic strategies to exploit LINE-1 biology in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Mendez-Dorantes
- Department of Pathology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA;
- Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, USA
| | - Kathleen H Burns
- Department of Pathology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA;
- Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, USA
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18
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Kim SJ, Kiser PK, Asfaha S, DeKoter RP, Dick FA. EZH2 inhibition stimulates repetitive element expression and viral mimicry in resting splenic B cells. EMBO J 2023; 42:e114462. [PMID: 37934086 PMCID: PMC10711652 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2023114462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian cells repress expression of repetitive genomic sequences by forming heterochromatin. However, the consequences of ectopic repeat expression remain unclear. Here we demonstrate that inhibitors of EZH2, the catalytic subunit of the Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), stimulate repeat misexpression and cell death in resting splenic B cells. B cells are uniquely sensitive to these agents because they exhibit high levels of histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) and correspondingly low DNA methylation at repeat elements. We generated a pattern recognition receptor loss-of-function mouse model, called RIC, with mutations in Rigi (encoding for RIG-I), Ifih1 (MDA5), and Cgas. In both wildtype and RIC mutant B cells, EZH2 inhibition caused loss of H3K27me3 at repetitive elements and upregulated their expression. However, NF-κB-dependent expression of inflammatory chemokines and subsequent cell death was suppressed by the RIC mutations. We further show that inhibition of EZH2 in cancer cells requires the same pattern recognition receptors to activate an interferon response. Together, the results reveal chemokine expression induced by EZH2 inhibitors in B cells as a novel inflammatory response to genomic repeat expression. Given the overlap of genes induced by EZH2 inhibitors and Epstein-Barr virus infection, this response can be described as a form of viral mimicry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung J Kim
- London Regional Cancer ProgramChildren's Health Research InstituteLondonONCanada
- London Health Sciences Research InstituteLondonONCanada
- Department of BiochemistryWestern UniversityLondonONCanada
| | - Patti K Kiser
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineWestern UniversityLondonONCanada
| | - Samuel Asfaha
- London Regional Cancer ProgramChildren's Health Research InstituteLondonONCanada
- London Health Sciences Research InstituteLondonONCanada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineWestern UniversityLondonONCanada
- Department of MedicineWestern UniversityLondonONCanada
| | - Rodney P DeKoter
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyWestern UniversityLondonONCanada
| | - Frederick A Dick
- London Regional Cancer ProgramChildren's Health Research InstituteLondonONCanada
- London Health Sciences Research InstituteLondonONCanada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineWestern UniversityLondonONCanada
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19
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Kwantwi LB. Genetic alterations shape innate immune cells to foster immunosuppression and cancer immunotherapy resistance. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:4289-4296. [PMID: 37910258 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01240-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, has opened a new avenue for cancer treatment following the durable clinical benefits. Despite the clinical successes across several cancer types, primary or acquired resistance might eventually lead to cancer progression in patients with clinical responses. Hence, to broaden the clinical applicability of these treatments, a detailed understanding of the mechanisms limiting the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy is needed. Evidence provided thus far has implicated immunosuppressive innate immune cells infiltrating the tumor microenvironment as key players in immunotherapy resistance. According to the available data, genetic alterations can shape the innate immune response to promote immunotherapy resistance and tumor progression. Herein, this review has discussed the current understanding of the underlying mechanisms where genetic alterations modulate the innate immune milieu to drive immunosuppression and immunotherapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Boafo Kwantwi
- Department of Pathology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA.
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20
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Xu Y, Wang Z, Sjöström M, Deng S, Wang C, Johnson NA, Gonzalez J, Li X, Metang LA, Tirado CR, Mukherji A, Wainwright G, Yu X, Yang Y, Barnes S, Hofstad M, Zhu H, Hanker A, He HH, Chen Y, Wang Z, Raj G, Arteaga C, Feng F, Wang Y, Wang T, Mu P. ZNF397 Loss Triggers TET2-driven Epigenetic Rewiring, Lineage Plasticity, and AR-targeted Therapy Resistance in AR-dependent Cancers. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.24.563645. [PMID: 37961351 PMCID: PMC10634771 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.24.563645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells exhibit phenotypical plasticity and epigenetic reprogramming, which allows them to evade lineage-dependent targeted treatments by adopting lineage plasticity. The underlying mechanisms by which cancer cells exploit the epigenetic regulatory machinery to acquire lineage plasticity and therapy resistance remain poorly understood. We identified Zinc Finger Protein 397 (ZNF397) as a bona fide co-activator of the androgen receptor (AR), essential for the transcriptional program governing AR-driven luminal lineage. ZNF397 deficiency facilitates the transition of cancer cell from an AR-driven luminal lineage to a Ten-Eleven Translocation 2 (TET2)-driven lineage plastic state, ultimately promoting resistance to therapies inhibiting AR signaling. Intriguingly, our findings indicate that TET2 inhibitor can eliminate the AR targeted therapies resistance in ZNF397-deficient tumors. These insights uncover a novel mechanism through which prostate and breast cancers acquire lineage plasticity via epigenetic rewiring and offer promising implications for clinical interventions designed to overcome therapy resistance dictated by lineage plasticity. Statement of Significance This study reveals a novel epigenetic mechanism regulating tumor lineage plasticity and therapy response, enhances understanding of drug resistance and unveils a new therapeutic strategy for prostate cancer and other malignancies. Our findings also illuminate TET2's oncogenic role and mechanistically connect TET2-driven epigenetic rewiring to lineage plasticity and therapy resistance.
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21
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Xu Y, He Z, Du J, Chen Z, Creemers JWM, Wang B, Li F, Wang Y. Epigenetic modulations of immune cells: from normal development to tumor progression. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:5120-5144. [PMID: 37928272 PMCID: PMC10620821 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.88327] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The dysfunction of immune cell development often impairs immunological homeostasis, thus causing various human diseases. Accumulating evidence shows that the development of different immune cells from hematopoietic stem cells are highly fine-tuned by different epigenetic mechanisms including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling and RNA-related regulations. Understanding how epigenetic regulators modulate normal development of immune cells contributes to the identification of new strategies for various diseases. Here, we review recent advances suggesting that epigenetic modulations can orchestrate immune cell development and functions through their impact on critical gene expression. We also discuss the aberrations of epigenetic modulations in immune cells that influence tumor progression, and the fact that underlying mechanisms affect how epigenetic drugs interfere with tumor progression in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchun Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of nursing, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zongsheng He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Du
- Department of General Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ziqiang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | | | - Bin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fan Li
- Department of General Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaling Wang
- Department of nursing, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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22
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Zhang B, Wang C, Wu H, Wang F, Chai Y, Hu Y, Wang B, Yu Z, Xia R, Xu R, Cao X. MFSD2A potentiates gastric cancer response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy by reprogramming the tumor microenvironment to activate T cell response. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2023; 43:1097-1116. [PMID: 37539769 PMCID: PMC10565382 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12476] [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: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) immunotherapy in various cancers, including gastric cancer (GC), needs to be potentiated by more effective targeting to enhance therapeutic efficacy or identifying accurate biomarkers to predict clinical responses. Here, we attempted to identify molecules predicting or/and promoting anti-PD-1 therapeutic response in advanced GC (AGC). METHODS The transcriptome of AGC tissues from patients with different clinical responses to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy and GC cells was analyzed by RNA sequencing. The protein and mRNA levels of the major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A (MFSD2A) in GC cells were assessed via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Additionally, the regulation of anti-PD-1 response by MFSD2A was studied in tumor-bearing mice. Cytometry by Time-of-Flight, multiple immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry assays were used to explore immunological responses. The effects of MFSD2A on lipid metabolism in mice cancer tissue and GC cells was detected by metabolomics. RESULTS Higher expression of MFSD2A in tumor tissues of AGC patients was associated with better response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Moreover, MFSD2A expression was lower in GC tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues, and its expression was inversely correlated with GC stage. The overexpression of MFSD2A in GC cells enhanced the efficacy of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in vivo by reprogramming the tumor microenvironment (TME), characterized by increased CD8+ T cell activation and reduced its exhaustion. MFSD2A inhibited transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) release from GC cells by suppressing cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2)-prostaglandin synthesis, which consequently reprogrammed TME to promote anti-tumor T cell activation. CONCLUSIONS MFSD2A potentially serves as a predictive biomarker for anti-PD-1 immunotherapy response in AGC patients. MFSD2A may be a promising therapeutic target to potentiate the efficacy of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy by reprogramming the TME to promote T cells activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and InflammationSuzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeSuzhouJiangsuP. R. China
| | - Chun‐Mei Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and InflammationSuzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeSuzhouJiangsuP. R. China
- Department of ImmunologyCenter for ImmunotherapyInstitute of Basic Medical SciencesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingP. R. China
| | - Hao‐Xiang Wu
- Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Feng Wang
- Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Yang‐Yang Chai
- Department of ImmunologyCenter for ImmunotherapyInstitute of Basic Medical SciencesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingP. R. China
| | - Ye Hu
- Institute of Immunology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai UniversityTianjinP. R. China
| | - Bing‐Jing Wang
- Department of ImmunologyCenter for ImmunotherapyInstitute of Basic Medical SciencesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingP. R. China
| | - Zhou Yu
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and InflammationSuzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeSuzhouJiangsuP. R. China
| | - Rong‐Hua Xia
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and InflammationSuzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeSuzhouJiangsuP. R. China
| | - Rui‐Hua Xu
- Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Xue‐Tao Cao
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and InflammationSuzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeSuzhouJiangsuP. R. China
- Department of ImmunologyCenter for ImmunotherapyInstitute of Basic Medical SciencesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingP. R. China
- Institute of Immunology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai UniversityTianjinP. R. China
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23
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Zhao X, Wang Z, Tang Z, Hu J, Zhou Y, Ge J, Dong J, Xu S. An anoikis-related gene signature for prediction of the prognosis in prostate cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1169425. [PMID: 37664042 PMCID: PMC10469923 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1169425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study presents a novel approach to predict postoperative biochemical recurrence (BCR) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients which involves constructing a signature based on anoikis-related genes (ARGs). Methods In this study, we utilised data from TCGA-PARD and GEO databases to identify specific ARGs in prostate cancer. We established a signature of these ARGs using Cox regression analysis and evaluated their clinical predictive efficacy and immune-related status through various methods such as Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, subject work characteristics analysis, and CIBERSORT method. Our findings suggest that these ARGs may have potential as biomarkers for prostate cancer prognosis and treatment. To investigate the biological pathways of genes associated with anoikis, we utilised GSVA, GO, and KEGG. The expression of ARGs was confirmed by the HPA database. Furthermore, we conducted PPI analysis to identify the core network of ARGs in PCa. Results Based on analysis of the TCGA database, a set of eight ARGs were identified as prognostic signature genes for prostate cancer. The reliability and validity of this signature were well verified in both the TCGA and GEO codifications. Using this signature, patients were classified into two groups based on their risk for developing BCR. There was a significant difference in BCR-free time between the high and low risk groups (P < 0.05).This signature serves as a dependable and unbiased prognostic factor for predicting biochemical recurrence (BCR) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. It outperforms clinicopathological characteristics in terms of accuracy and reliability. PLK1 may play a potential regulatory role as a core gene in the development of prostate cancer. Conclusion This signature suggests the potential role of ARGs in the development and progression of PCa and can effectively predict the risk of BCR in PCa patients after surgery. It also provides a basis for further research into the mechanism of ARGs in PCa and for the clinical management of patients with PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Zhao
- Jinling School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Urology, Eastern Theater General Hospital of Medical School Of Nan Jing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zuheng Wang
- Jinling School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Urology, Eastern Theater General Hospital of Medical School Of Nan Jing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zilu Tang
- Jinling School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Urology, Eastern Theater General Hospital of Medical School Of Nan Jing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Hu
- Jinling School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Urology, Eastern Theater General Hospital of Medical School Of Nan Jing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yulin Zhou
- Department of Urology, Eastern Theater General Hospital of Medical School Of Nan Jing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jingping Ge
- Department of Urology, Eastern Theater General Hospital of Medical School Of Nan Jing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Department of Urology, Eastern Theater General Hospital of Medical School Of Nan Jing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Song Xu
- Jinling School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Urology, Eastern Theater General Hospital of Medical School Of Nan Jing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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24
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Chen C, Shin JH, Fang Z, Brennan K, Horowitz NB, Pfaff KL, Welsh EL, Rodig SJ, Gevaert O, Gozani O, Uppaluri R, Sunwoo JB. Targeting KDM2A Enhances T-cell Infiltration in NSD1-Deficient Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2023; 83:2645-2655. [PMID: 37311054 PMCID: PMC10526980 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-3114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a significant proportion of tumors have inactivating mutations in the histone methyltransferase NSD1. In these tumors, NSD1 inactivation is a driver of T-cell exclusion from the tumor microenvironment (TME). A better understanding of the NSD1-mediated mechanism regulating infiltration of T cells into the TME could help identify approaches to overcome immunosuppression. Here, we demonstrated that NSD1 inactivation results in lower levels of H3K36 dimethylation and higher levels of H3K27 trimethylation, the latter being a known repressive histone mark enriched on the promoters of key T-cell chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10. HNSCC with NSD1 mutations had lower levels of these chemokines and lacked responses to PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade. Inhibition of KDM2A, the primary lysine demethylase that is selective for H3K36, reversed the altered histone marks induced by NSD1 loss and restored T-cell infiltration into the TME. Importantly, KDM2A suppression decreased growth of NSD1-deficient tumors in immunocompetent, but not in immunodeficient, mice. Together, these data indicate that KDM2A is an immunotherapeutic target for overcoming immune exclusion in HNSCC. SIGNIFICANCE The altered epigenetic landscape of NSD1-deficient tumors confers sensitivity to inhibition of the histone-modifying enzyme KDM2A as an immunotherapeutic strategy to stimulate T-cell infiltration and suppress tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - June Ho Shin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Zhuoqing Fang
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Kevin Brennan
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics) and Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Nina B. Horowitz
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Kathleen L. Pfaff
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Emma L. Welsh
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Scott J. Rodig
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Olivier Gevaert
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics) and Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Or Gozani
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Ravindra Uppaluri
- Division of Otolaryngology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - John B. Sunwoo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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25
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Davies A, Zoubeidi A, Beltran H, Selth LA. The Transcriptional and Epigenetic Landscape of Cancer Cell Lineage Plasticity. Cancer Discov 2023; 13:1771-1788. [PMID: 37470668 PMCID: PMC10527883 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Lineage plasticity, a process whereby cells change their phenotype to take on a different molecular and/or histologic identity, is a key driver of cancer progression and therapy resistance. Although underlying genetic changes within the tumor can enhance lineage plasticity, it is predominantly a dynamic process controlled by transcriptional and epigenetic dysregulation. This review explores the transcriptional and epigenetic regulators of lineage plasticity and their interplay with other features of malignancy, such as dysregulated metabolism, the tumor microenvironment, and immune evasion. We also discuss strategies for the detection and treatment of highly plastic tumors. SIGNIFICANCE Lineage plasticity is a hallmark of cancer and a critical facilitator of other oncogenic features such as metastasis, therapy resistance, dysregulated metabolism, and immune evasion. It is essential that the molecular mechanisms of lineage plasticity are elucidated to enable the development of strategies to effectively target this phenomenon. In this review, we describe key transcriptional and epigenetic regulators of cancer cell plasticity, in the process highlighting therapeutic approaches that may be harnessed for patient benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alastair Davies
- Oncology Research Discovery, Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Amina Zoubeidi
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Himisha Beltran
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Luke A. Selth
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute and Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042 Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005 Australia
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26
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García-Vílchez R, Añazco-Guenkova AM, Dietmann S, López J, Morón-Calvente V, D'Ambrosi S, Nombela P, Zamacola K, Mendizabal I, García-Longarte S, Zabala-Letona A, Astobiza I, Fernández S, Paniagua A, Miguel-López B, Marchand V, Alonso-López D, Merkel A, García-Tuñón I, Ugalde-Olano A, Loizaga-Iriarte A, Lacasa-Viscasillas I, Unda M, Azkargorta M, Elortza F, Bárcena L, Gonzalez-Lopez M, Aransay AM, Di Domenico T, Sánchez-Martín MA, De Las Rivas J, Guil S, Motorin Y, Helm M, Pandolfi PP, Carracedo A, Blanco S. METTL1 promotes tumorigenesis through tRNA-derived fragment biogenesis in prostate cancer. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:119. [PMID: 37516825 PMCID: PMC10386714 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01809-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Newly growing evidence highlights the essential role that epitranscriptomic marks play in the development of many cancers; however, little is known about the role and implications of altered epitranscriptome deposition in prostate cancer. Here, we show that the transfer RNA N7-methylguanosine (m7G) transferase METTL1 is highly expressed in primary and advanced prostate tumours. Mechanistically, we find that METTL1 depletion causes the loss of m7G tRNA methylation and promotes the biogenesis of a novel class of small non-coding RNAs derived from 5'tRNA fragments. 5'tRNA-derived small RNAs steer translation control to favour the synthesis of key regulators of tumour growth suppression, interferon pathway, and immune effectors. Knockdown of Mettl1 in prostate cancer preclinical models increases intratumoural infiltration of pro-inflammatory immune cells and enhances responses to immunotherapy. Collectively, our findings reveal a therapeutically actionable role of METTL1-directed m7G tRNA methylation in cancer cell translation control and tumour biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel García-Vílchez
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ana M Añazco-Guenkova
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Sabine Dietmann
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 660S. Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Judith López
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Virginia Morón-Calvente
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Silvia D'Ambrosi
- Present Address: Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Paz Nombela
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Kepa Zamacola
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Isabel Mendizabal
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48011, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Saioa García-Longarte
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Amaia Zabala-Letona
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ianire Astobiza
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sonia Fernández
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Paniagua
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Borja Miguel-López
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Virginie Marchand
- Université de Lorraine, UAR2008 IBSLor CNRS-UL-INSERM, Biopôle UL, 9, Avenue de La Forêt de Haye, 54505, Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France
| | - Diego Alonso-López
- Bioinformatics Unit, Cancer Research Center (CIC-IBMCC, CSIC/USAL), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) and University of Salamanca (USAL), 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Angelika Merkel
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, 08916, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Germans Trias I Pujol Health Science Research Institute, Badalona, 08916, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Ignacio García-Tuñón
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | | | - Ana Loizaga-Iriarte
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Urology, Basurto University Hospital, 48013, Bilbao, Spain
- Traslational Prostate Cancer Research Lab, CIC bioGUNE-Basurto, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Avenida Montevideo 18, 48013, Bilbao, Spain
| | | | - Miguel Unda
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Urology, Basurto University Hospital, 48013, Bilbao, Spain
- Traslational Prostate Cancer Research Lab, CIC bioGUNE-Basurto, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Avenida Montevideo 18, 48013, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Mikel Azkargorta
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
- Carlos III Networked Proteomics Platform (ProteoRed-ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Félix Elortza
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
- Carlos III Networked Proteomics Platform (ProteoRed-ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Bárcena
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Monika Gonzalez-Lopez
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Ana M Aransay
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Tomás Di Domenico
- Bioinformatics Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel A Sánchez-Martín
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Servicio de Transgénesis, Nucleus, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Javier De Las Rivas
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Sònia Guil
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, 08916, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Germans Trias I Pujol Health Science Research Institute, Badalona, 08916, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Yuri Motorin
- Université de Lorraine, UAR2008 IBSLor CNRS-UL-INSERM, Biopôle UL, 9, Avenue de La Forêt de Haye, 54505, Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France
- Université de Lorraine, UMR7365 IMoPA CNRS-UL, Biopôle UL, 9, Avenue de La Forêt de Haye, 54505, Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France
| | - Mark Helm
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Pier Paolo Pandolfi
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10126, Turin, TO, Italy
- William N. Pennington Cancer Center, Renown Health, Nevada System of Higher Education, Reno, NV, 89502, USA
| | - Arkaitz Carracedo
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48011, Bilbao, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Basurto University Hospital, 48013, Bilbao, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), P. O. Box 644, 48080, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Sandra Blanco
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.
- CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, 801 Bld, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain.
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27
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Liu Y, Hu L, Wu Z, Yuan K, Hong G, Lian Z, Feng J, Li N, Li D, Wong J, Chen J, Liu M, He J, Pang X. Loss of PHF8 induces a viral mimicry response by activating endogenous retrotransposons. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4225. [PMID: 37454216 PMCID: PMC10349869 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39943-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has become established as major treatment modality for multiple types of solid tumors, including colorectal cancer. Identifying novel immunotherapeutic targets to enhance anti-tumor immunity and sensitize current immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in colorectal cancer is needed. Here we report the histone demethylase PHD finger protein 8 (PHF8, KDM7B), a Jumonji C domain-containing protein that erases repressive histone methyl marks, as an essential mediator of immune escape. Ablation the function of PHF8 abrogates tumor growth, activates anti-tumor immune memory, and augments sensitivity to ICB therapy in mouse models of colorectal cancer. Strikingly, tumor PHF8 deletion stimulates a viral mimicry response in colorectal cancer cells, where the depletion of key components of endogenous nucleic acid sensing diminishes PHF8 loss-meditated antiviral immune responses and anti-tumor effects in vivo. Mechanistically, PHF8 inhibition elicits H3K9me3-dependent retrotransposon activation by promoting proteasomal degradation of the H3K9 methyltransferase SETDB1 in a demethylase-independent manner. Moreover, PHF8 expression is anti-correlated with canonical immune signatures and antiviral immune responses in human colorectal adenocarcinoma. Overall, our study establishes PHF8 as an epigenetic checkpoint, and targeting PHF8 is a promising viral mimicry-inducing approach to enhance intrinsic anti-tumor immunity or to conquer immune resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Longmiao Hu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengzhen Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kun Yuan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Zhengke Lian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Juanjuan Feng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dali Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiemin Wong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiekai Chen
- Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingyao Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Xiufeng Pang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
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28
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Kornepati AVR, Rogers CM, Sung P, Curiel TJ. The complementarity of DDR, nucleic acids and anti-tumour immunity. Nature 2023; 619:475-486. [PMID: 37468584 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06069-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) immunotherapy is a first-line treatment for selected cancers, yet the mechanisms of its efficacy remain incompletely understood. Furthermore, only a minority of patients with cancer benefit from ICB, and there is a lack of fully informative treatment response biomarkers. Selectively exploiting defects in DNA damage repair is also a standard treatment for cancer, spurred by enhanced understanding of the DNA damage response (DDR). DDR and ICB are closely linked-faulty DDR produces immunogenic cancer neoantigens that can increase the efficacy of ICB therapy, and tumour mutational burden is a good but imperfect biomarker for the response to ICB. DDR studies in ICB efficacy initially focused on contributions to neoantigen burden. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that ICB efficacy is complicated by the immunogenic effects of nucleic acids generated from exogenous DNA damage or endogenous processes such as DNA replication. Chemotherapy, radiation, or selective DDR inhibitors (such as PARP inhibitors) can generate aberrant nucleic acids to induce tumour immunogenicity independently of neoantigens. Independent of their functions in immunity, targets of immunotherapy such as cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) or PD-L1 can crosstalk with DDR or the DNA repair machinery to influence the response to DNA-damaging agents. Here we review the rapidly evolving, multifaceted interfaces between DDR, nucleic acid immunogenicity and immunotherapy efficacy, focusing on ICB. Understanding these interrelated processes could explain ICB treatment failures and reveal novel exploitable therapeutic vulnerabilities in cancers. We conclude by addressing major unanswered questions and new research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand V R Kornepati
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Cody M Rogers
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Patrick Sung
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX, USA
- University of Texas Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Tyler J Curiel
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX, USA.
- University of Texas Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, San Antonio, TX, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX, USA.
- Dartmouth Health, Dartmouth Cancer Center and the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA.
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29
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Wang B, Han Y, Zhang Y, Zhao Q, Wang H, Wei J, Meng L, Xin Y, Jiang X. Overcoming acquired resistance to cancer immune checkpoint therapy: potential strategies based on molecular mechanisms. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:120. [PMID: 37386520 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01073-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1/PD-L1 to boost tumor-specific T lymphocyte immunity have opened up new avenues for the treatment of various histological types of malignancies, with the possibility of durable responses and improved survival. However, the development of acquired resistance to ICI therapy over time after an initial response remains a major obstacle in cancer therapeutics. The potential mechanisms of acquired resistance to ICI therapy are still ambiguous. In this review, we focused on the current understanding of the mechanisms of acquired resistance to ICIs, including the lack of neoantigens and effective antigen presentation, mutations of IFN-γ/JAK signaling, and activation of alternate inhibitory immune checkpoints, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, epigenetic modification, and dysbiosis of the gut microbiome. Further, based on these mechanisms, potential therapeutic strategies to reverse the resistance to ICIs, which could provide clinical benefits to cancer patients, are also briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, China
- Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yin Han
- Cancer Prevention and Treatment Institute of Chengdu, Department of Pathology, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Fifth People's Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Yuyu Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology & Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Qin Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, China
- Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Cancer Prevention and Treatment Institute of Chengdu, Department of Pathology, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Fifth People's Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Huanhuan Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology & Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jinlong Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology & Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Lingbin Meng
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Ying Xin
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, China.
| | - Xin Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, China.
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology & Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
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30
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Naesens L, Haerynck F, Gack MU. The RNA polymerase III-RIG-I axis in antiviral immunity and inflammation. Trends Immunol 2023; 44:435-449. [PMID: 37149405 PMCID: PMC10461603 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2023.04.002] [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: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid sensors survey subcellular compartments for atypical or mislocalized RNA or DNA, ultimately triggering innate immune responses. Retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I) is part of the family of cytoplasmic RNA receptors that can detect viruses. A growing literature demonstrates that mammalian RNA polymerase III (Pol III) transcribes certain viral or cellular DNA sequences into immunostimulatory RIG-I ligands, which elicits antiviral or inflammatory responses. Dysregulation of the Pol III-RIG-I sensing axis can lead to human diseases including severe viral infection outcomes, autoimmunity, and tumor progression. Here, we summarize the newly emerging role of viral and host-derived Pol III transcripts in immunity and also highlight recent advances in understanding how mammalian cells prevent unwanted immune activation by these RNAs to maintain homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Naesens
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Primary Immunodeficiency Research Lab, Center for Primary Immunodeficiency, Jeffrey Modell Diagnosis and Research Center, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Filomeen Haerynck
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Primary Immunodeficiency Research Lab, Center for Primary Immunodeficiency, Jeffrey Modell Diagnosis and Research Center, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michaela U Gack
- Florida Research and Innovation Center, Cleveland Clinic, Port St. Lucie, FL, USA.
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31
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Sorrentino C, Di Carlo E. Molecular Targeted Therapies in Metastatic Prostate Cancer: Recent Advances and Future Challenges. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15112885. [PMID: 37296848 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15112885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most frequent malignant tumor in men, and, despite the great improvements in survival in patients with localized cancer, the prognosis for metastatic disease remains poor. Novel molecular targeted therapies, which block specific molecules or signaling pathways in tumor cells or in their microenvironment, have shown encouraging results in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Among these therapeutic approaches, prostate-specific membrane antigen-targeted radionuclide therapies and DNA repair inhibitors represent the most promising ones, with some therapeutic protocols already approved by the FDA, whereas therapies targeting tumor neovascularization and immune checkpoint inhibitors have not yet demonstrated clear clinical benefits. In this review, the most relevant studies and clinical trials on this topic are illustrated and discussed, together with future research directions and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Sorrentino
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Anatomic Pathology and Immuno-Oncology Unit, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Emma Di Carlo
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Anatomic Pathology and Immuno-Oncology Unit, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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32
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Yang J, Xiang T, Zhu S, Lao Y, Wang Y, Liu T, Li K, Ma Y, Zhong C, Zhang S, Tan W, Lin D, Wu C. Comprehensive Analyses Reveal Effects on Tumor Immune Infiltration and Immunotherapy Response of APOBEC Mutagenesis and Its Molecular Mechanisms in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:2551-2571. [PMID: 37215984 PMCID: PMC10197887 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.83824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme catalytic polypeptide (APOBEC) mutagenesis is prevalent in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, the functional role of APOBEC mutagenesis has yet to be fully delineated. To address this, we collect matched multi-omics data of 169 ESCC patients and evaluate characteristics of immune infiltration using multiple bioinformatic approaches based on bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data and verified by functional assays. We find that APOBEC mutagenesis prolongs overall survival (OS) of ESCC patients. The reason for this outcome is probably due to high anti-tumor immune infiltration, immune checkpoints expression and immune related pathway enrichment, such as interferon (IFN) signaling, innate and adaptive immune system. The elevated AOBEC3A (A3A) activity paramountly contributes to the footprints of APOBEC mutagenesis and is first discovered to be transactivated by FOSL1. Mechanistically, upregulated A3A exacerbates cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) accumulation, thus stimulating cGAS-STING pathway. Simultaneously, A3A is associated with immunotherapy response which is predicted by TIDE algorithm, validated in a clinical cohort and further confirmed in mouse models. These findings systematically elucidate the clinical relevance, immunological characteristics, prognostic value for immunotherapy and underlying mechanisms of APOBEC mutagenesis in ESCC, which demonstrate great potential in clinical utility to facilitate clinical decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yang
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Tao Xiang
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Shihao Zhu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yueqiong Lao
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yuqian Wang
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Tianyuan Liu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yuling Ma
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Ce Zhong
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Shaosen Zhang
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Wen Tan
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Dongxin Lin
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Chen Wu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- CAMS Oxford Institute, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100006, China
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33
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Oreper D, Klaeger S, Jhunjhunwala S, Delamarre L. The peptide woods are lovely, dark and deep: Hunting for novel cancer antigens. Semin Immunol 2023; 67:101758. [PMID: 37027981 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Harnessing the patient's immune system to control a tumor is a proven avenue for cancer therapy. T cell therapies as well as therapeutic vaccines, which target specific antigens of interest, are being explored as treatments in conjunction with immune checkpoint blockade. For these therapies, selecting the best suited antigens is crucial. Most of the focus has thus far been on neoantigens that arise from tumor-specific somatic mutations. Although there is clear evidence that T-cell responses against mutated neoantigens are protective, the large majority of these mutations are not immunogenic. In addition, most somatic mutations are unique to each individual patient and their targeting requires the development of individualized approaches. Therefore, novel antigen types are needed to broaden the scope of such treatments. We review high throughput approaches for discovering novel tumor antigens and some of the key challenges associated with their detection, and discuss considerations when selecting tumor antigens to target in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Oreper
- Genentech, 1 DNA way, South San Francisco, 94080 CA, USA.
| | - Susan Klaeger
- Genentech, 1 DNA way, South San Francisco, 94080 CA, USA.
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34
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Meissner M, Napolitano A, Thway K, Huang P, Jones RL. Pharmacotherapeutic strategies for epithelioid sarcoma: are we any closer to a non-surgical cure? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:1395-1401. [PMID: 37326105 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2224500] [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: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epithelioid sarcoma (ES) is a rare soft tissue sarcoma subtype, predominantly occurring in children and young adults. Despite optimal management of localized disease, approximately 50% of patients develop advanced disease. The management of advanced ES remains challenging due to limited response to conventional chemotherapy and despite novel oral EZH2 inhibitors that have better tolerability but similar efficacy to chemotherapy. AREAS COVERED We performed a literature review using the PubMed (MEDLINE) and Web of Science databases. We have focused on the role of chemotherapy, targeted agents such as EZH2 inhibitors, potential new targets and immune checkpoint inhibitors and combinations of therapies currently undergoing clinical investigation. EXPERT OPINION ES is a soft tissue sarcoma with a heterogeneous pathological, clinical, and molecular presentation. In the current era of precision medicine, more trials with targeted therapies and a combination of chemotherapy or immunotherapy with targeted therapies are required to establish optimal treatment for ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Meissner
- Velindre Cancer Centre, Cardiff, UK
- Department of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Khin Thway
- Sarcoma Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Paul Huang
- Sarcoma Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Robin L Jones
- Sarcoma Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Division of Clinical Studies, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
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35
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Li Y, Li X, Yi J, Cao Y, Qin Z, Zhong Z, Yang W. Nanoparticle-Mediated STING Activation for Cancer Immunotherapy. Adv Healthc Mater 2023:e2300260. [PMID: 36905358 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
As the first line of host defense against pathogenic infections, innate immunity plays a key role in antitumor immunotherapy. The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) (cGAS-STING) pathway has attracted much attention because of the secretion of various proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Many STING agonists have been identified and applied into preclinical or clinical trials for cancer immunotherapy. However, the fast excretion, low bioavailability, nonspecificity, and adverse effects of the small molecule STING agonists limit their therapeutic efficacy and in vivo application. Nanodelivery systems with appropriate size, charge, and surface modification are capable of addressing these dilemmas. In this review, the mechanism of the cGAS-STING pathway is discussed and the STING agonists, focusing on nanoparticle-mediated STING therapy and combined therapy for cancers, are summarized. Finally, the future direction and challenges of nano-STING therapy are expounded, emphasizing the pivotal scientific problems and technical bottlenecks and hoping to provide general guidance for its clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjuan Li
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.,The Center of Infection and Immunity, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Xinyan Li
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.,The Center of Infection and Immunity, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Jinmeng Yi
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.,The Center of Infection and Immunity, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Yongjian Cao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Zhihai Qin
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.,The Center of Infection and Immunity, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Zhiyuan Zhong
- Biomedical Polymers Laboratory, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Weijing Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
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36
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TRIM28 promotes luminal cell plasticity in a mouse model of prostate cancer. Oncogene 2023; 42:1347-1359. [PMID: 36882525 PMCID: PMC10122711 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02655-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
The Tripartite motif-containing 28 (TRIM28) transcriptional cofactor is significantly upregulated in high-grade and metastatic prostate cancers. To study the role of TRIM28 in prostate cancer progression in vivo, we generated a genetically-engineered mouse model, combining prostate-specific inactivation of Trp53, Pten and Trim28. Trim28 inactivated NPp53T mice developed an inflammatory response and necrosis in prostate lumens. By conducting single-cell RNA sequencing, we found that NPp53T prostates had fewer luminal cells resembling proximal luminal lineage cells, which are cells with progenitor activity enriched in proximal prostates and prostate invagination tips in wild-type mice with analogous populations in human prostates. However, despite increased apoptosis and reduction of cells expressing proximal luminal cell markers, we found that NPp53T mouse prostates evolved and progressed to invasive prostate carcinoma with a shortened overall survival. Altogether, our findings suggest that TRIM28 promotes expression of proximal luminal cell markers in prostate tumor cells and provides insights into TRIM28 function in prostate tumor plasticity.
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Benefits and Challenges of Inhibiting EZH2 in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051537. [PMID: 36900330 PMCID: PMC10000483 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive thoracic cancer that is mainly associated with prior exposure to asbestos fibers. Despite being a rare cancer, its global rate is increasing and the prognosis remains extremely poor. Over the last two decades, despite the constant research of new therapeutic options, the combination chemotherapy with cisplatin and pemetrexed has remained the only first-line therapy for MPM. The recent approval of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB)-based immunotherapy has opened new promising avenues of research. However, MPM is still a fatal cancer with no effective treatments. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone methyl transferase that exerts pro-oncogenic and immunomodulatory activities in a variety of tumors. Accordingly, a growing number of studies indicate that EZH2 is also an oncogenic driver in MPM, but its effects on tumor microenvironments are still largely unexplored. This review describes the state-of-the-art of EZH2 in MPM biology and discusses its potential use both as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. We highlight current gaps of knowledge, the filling of which will likely favor the entry of EZH2 inhibitors within the treatment options for MPM patients.
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Mortezaee K, Majidpoor J, Najafi S, Tasa D. Bypassing anti-PD-(L)1 therapy: Mechanisms and management strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114150. [PMID: 36577330 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is a major issue of the current era in cancer immunotherapy. Immune evasion is a multi-factorial event, which occurs generally at a base of cold immunity. Despite advances in the field, there are still unsolved challenges about how to combat checkpoint hijacked by tumor cells and what are complementary treatment strategies to render durable anti-tumor outcomes. A point is that anti-programed death-1 receptor (PD-1)/anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) is not the solo path of immune escape, and responses in many types of solid tumors to the PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors are not satisfactory. Thus, seeking mechanisms inter-connecting tumor with its immune ecosystem nearby unravel more about resistance mechanisms so as to develop methods for sustained reinvigoration of immune activity against cancer. In this review, we aimed to discuss about common and specific paths taken by tumor cells to evade immune surveillance, describing novel detection strategies, as well as suggesting some approaches to recover tumor sensitivity to the anti-PD-(L)1 therapy based on the current knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Jamal Majidpoor
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Sajad Najafi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Davood Tasa
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Fellowship, Organ Transplantation Group, Massih Daneshvari Educational Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
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Zhao L, Rao X, Huang C, Zheng R, Kong R, Chen Z, Yu X, Cheng H, Li S. Epigenetic reprogramming of carrier free photodynamic modulator to activate tumor immunotherapy by EZH2 inhibition. Biomaterials 2023; 293:121952. [PMID: 36502580 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121952] [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: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tumor cells are characterized by unlimited proliferation and escape of immune clearance, which are closely associated with the down regulation of surface antigens. In this work, a carrier free photodynamic modulator (CeTaz) is developed to improve immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and promote the recognition of tumors by T cells by epigenetic reprogramming. Specifically, CeTaz is assembled by chlorine e6 (Ce6) and tazemetostat (Taz) through intermolecular interactions. Upon light irradiation, CeTaz is able to promote the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) for a robust photodynamic therapy (PDT) to inhibit localized tumor growth. Meanwhile, the PDT also induces immunogenic cell death (ICD) to initiate immune response, leading to the activation of effector T cells. More importantly, CeTaz could inhibit the epigenetic regulator of EZH2 to suppress the methylation of H3K27, which would promote tumor cells to express MHC-I and release CXCL10. Consequently, the epigenetically reprogrammed tumor cells are readily recognized by effector T cells to enhance the antitumor immunity. Results indicate that the PDT activated immunotherapy of CeTaz could simultaneously inhibit the growth of primary and distant tumors with a low system toxicity. This study would advance the development of carrier free nanomedicine for precise treatment of metastatic tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linping Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, The NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, PR China
| | - Xiaona Rao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, The NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, PR China
| | - Chuyu Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, The NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, PR China
| | - Rongrong Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, The NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, PR China
| | - Renjiang Kong
- Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, PR China
| | - Zuxiao Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, The NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, PR China
| | - Xiyong Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, The NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, PR China.
| | - Hong Cheng
- Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, PR China.
| | - Shiying Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, The NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, PR China.
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40
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Inhibition of EZH2 Causes Retrotransposon Derepression and Immune Activation in Porcine Lung Alveolar Macrophages. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032394. [PMID: 36768720 PMCID: PMC9917017 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Alveolar macrophages (AMs) form the first defense line against various respiratory pathogens, and their immune response has a profound impact on the outcome of respiratory infection. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), which catalyzes the trimethylation of H3K27 for epigenetic repression, has gained increasing attention for its immune regulation function, yet its exact function in AMs remains largely obscure. Using porcine 3D4/21 AM cells as a model, we characterized the transcriptomic and epigenomic alterations after the inhibition of EZH2. We found that the inhibition of EZH2 causes transcriptional activation of numerous immune genes and inhibits the subsequent infection by influenza A virus. Interestingly, specific families of transposable elements, particularly endogenous retrovirus elements (ERVs) and LINEs which belong to retrotransposons, also become derepressed. While some of the derepressed ERV families are pig-specific, a few ancestral families are known to be under EZH2-mediated repression in humans. Given that derepression of ERVs can promote innate immune activation through "viral mimicry", we speculate that ERVs may also contribute to the coinciding immune activation in AMs after the inhibition of EZH2. Overall, this study improves the understanding of the EZH2-related immune regulation in AMs and provides novel insights into the epigenetic regulation of retrotransposons in pigs.
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41
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Zhang Y, Chen J, Liu H, Mi R, Huang R, Li X, Fan F, Xie X, Ding J. The role of histone methylase and demethylase in antitumor immunity: A new direction for immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1099892. [PMID: 36713412 PMCID: PMC9874864 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1099892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications may alter the proliferation and differentiation of normal cells, leading to malignant transformation. They can also affect normal stimulation, activation, and abnormal function of immune cells in the tissue microenvironment. Histone methylation, coordinated by histone methylase and histone demethylase to stabilize transcription levels in the promoter area, is one of the most common types of epigenetic alteration, which gained increasing interest. It can modify gene transcription through chromatin structure and affect cell fate, at the transcriptome or protein level. According to recent research, histone methylation modification can regulate tumor and immune cells affecting anti-tumor immune response. Consequently, it is critical to have a thorough grasp of the role of methylation function in cancer treatment. In this review, we discussed recent data on the mechanisms of histone methylation on factors associated with immune resistance of tumor cells and regulation of immune cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanling Zhang
- School of Medicine, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Junhao Chen
- Graduate School of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Hang Liu
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Rui Mi
- Department of General Surgery, Zhijin County People’s Hospital, Bijie, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Xian Li
- Orthopedics Department, Dongguan Songshan Lake Tungwah Hospital, DongGuan, China
| | - Fei Fan
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Panzhihua University, Panzhihua, China
| | - Xueqing Xie
- School of Medicine, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jie Ding
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China,*Correspondence: Jie Ding,
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Cheng B, Yu Q, Wang W. Intimate communications within the tumor microenvironment: stromal factors function as an orchestra. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:1. [PMID: 36600243 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-022-00894-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Extensive studies of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the last decade have reformed the view of cancer as a tumor cell-centric disease. The tumor microenvironment, especially termed the "seed and soil" theory, has emerged as the key determinant in cancer development and therapeutic resistance. The TME mainly consists of tumor cells, stromal cells such as fibroblasts, immune cells, and other noncellular components. Within the TME, intimate communications among these components largely determine the fate of the tumor. The pivotal roles of the stroma, especially cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most common component within the TME, have been revealed in tumorigenesis, tumor progression, therapeutic response, and tumor immunity. A better understanding of the function of the TME sheds light on tumor therapy. In this review, we summarize the emerging understanding of stromal factors, especially CAFs, in cancer progression, drug resistance, and tumor immunity with an emphasis on their functions in epigenetic regulation. Moreover, the importance of epigenetic regulation in reshaping the TME and the basic biological principles underpinning the synergy between epigenetic therapy and immunotherapy will be further discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Research Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiang Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Guangdong Research Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Cancer Precision Medicine, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Biopolis, Singapore. .,Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, DUKE-NUS Graduate Medical School of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Wenyu Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Guangdong Research Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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43
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Endogenous retroelements as alarms for disruptions to cellular homeostasis. Trends Cancer 2023; 9:55-68. [PMID: 36216729 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous retroelements are DNA sequences which can duplicate and move to new locations in the genome. Actively moving endogenous retroelements can be disruptive to the host, and their expression is therefore often repressed. Interestingly, drugs that disrupt the repression of endogenous retroelements show promise for treating cancer. Expressed endogenous retroelements can activate innate immune receptors that activate the antiviral response, potentially leading to the death of cancer cells. We discuss disruptions to cellular processes which can lead to activation of the antiviral state from endogenous retroelements, and present the 'fire alarm hypothesis', where we argue that endogenous retroelements act as alarms for disruptions to these cellular processes. Furthermore, we discuss the properties of endogenous retroelements which make them suitable as alarms.
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44
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Guan R, Mei J, Guo R. Analysis of the Prognosis Prediction Ability of a Necroptosis-Related Gene Signature and its Relationship With the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immune Microenvironment Using Bioinformatics Analysis and Experimental Validation. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2023; 22:15330338231182208. [PMID: 37335078 DOI: 10.1177/15330338231182208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most malignant cancers and has a poor prognosis. The immune microenvironment is closely related to the drug sensitivity of a tumor. Necroptosis was reported to be a key factor for HCC. The prognostic value of necroptosis-related genes and their association with the tumor immune microenvironment are still unknown. Methods: Necroptosis-related genes that could comprise a signature for predicting the prognosis of HCC cases were identified using univariate analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression analysis. The association between this prognosis prediction signature and HCC immune microenvironment was analyzed. The immunological activities and drug sensitivities were compared between different risk score groups identified using the prognosis prediction signature. The expression levels of the five genes comprising the signature were validated using RT-qPCR. Results: A prognosis prediction signature consisting of five necroptosis-related genes was constructed and validated. Its risk score was = (0.1634 × PGAM5 expression) + (0.0134 × CXCL1 expression) - (0.1007 × ALDH2 expression) + (0.2351 × EZH2 expression) - (0.0564 × NDRG2 expression). The signature was found to be significantly associated with the infiltration of B cells, CD4+ T cells, neutrophils, macrophages, and myeloid dendritic cells into the HCC immune microenvironment. The number of infiltrating immune cells and the expression levels of immune checkpoints in the immune microenvironment of high-risk score patients were higher. Sorafenib and immune checkpoint blockade were determined to be ideally suited for treating high-risk score patients and low-risk score patients, respectively. Finally, RT-qPCR results confirmed that the expression levels of EZH2, NDRG2, and ALDH2 were significantly down-regulated in HuH7 and HepG2 cells compared to those in LO2 cells. Conclusion: The necroptosis-related gene signature developed herein can classify patients with HCC according to prognosis risk well and is associated with infiltration of immune cells into the tumor immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renguo Guan
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Mei
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rongping Guo
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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dos Reis FD, Jerónimo C, Correia MP. Epigenetic modulation and prostate cancer: Paving the way for NK cell anti-tumor immunity. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1152572. [PMID: 37090711 PMCID: PMC10113550 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1152572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunoepigenetics is a growing field, as there is mounting evidence on the key role played by epigenetic mechanisms in the regulation of tumor immune cell recognition and control of immune cell anti-tumor responses. Moreover, it is increasingly acknowledgeable a tie between epigenetic regulation and prostate cancer (PCa) development and progression. PCa is intrinsically a cold tumor, with scarce immune cell infiltration and low inflammatory tumor microenvironment. However, Natural Killer (NK) cells, main anti-tumor effector immune cells, have been frequently linked to improved PCa prognosis. The role that epigenetic-related mechanisms might have in regulating both NK cell recognition of PCa tumor cells and NK cell functions in PCa is still mainly unknown. Epigenetic modulating drugs have been showing boundless therapeutic potential as anti-tumor agents, however their role in immune cell regulation and recognition is scarce. In this review, we focused on studies addressing modulation of epigenetic mechanisms involved in NK cell-mediated responses, including both the epigenetic modulation of tumor cell NK ligand expression and NK cell receptor expression and function in different tumor models, highlighting studies in PCa. The integrated knowledge from diverse epigenetic modulation mechanisms promoting NK cell-mediated immunity in various tumor models might open doors for the development of novel epigenetic-based therapeutic options for PCa management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa D. dos Reis
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO-Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal
- Master Program in Oncology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO-Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Margareta P. Correia
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO-Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center Raquel Seruca (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Margareta P. Correia,
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Xu C, Zhao S, Cai L. Epigenetic (De)regulation in Prostate Cancer. Cancer Treat Res 2023; 190:321-360. [PMID: 38113006 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-45654-1_10] [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] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a heterogeneous disease exhibiting both genetic and epigenetic deregulations. Epigenetic alterations are defined as changes not based on DNA sequence, which include those of DNA methylation, histone modification, and chromatin remodeling. Androgen receptor (AR) is the main driver for PCa and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) remains a backbone treatment for patients with PCa; however, ADT resistance almost inevitably occurs and advanced diseases develop termed castration-resistant PCa (CRPC), due to both genetic and epigenetic changes. Due to the reversible nature of epigenetic modifications, inhibitors targeting epigenetic factors have become promising anti-cancer agents. In this chapter, we focus on recent studies about the dysregulation of epigenetic regulators crucially involved in the initiation, development, and progression of PCa and discuss the potential use of inhibitors targeting epigenetic modifiers for treatment of advanced PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Xu
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Shuai Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Ling Cai
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
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Roy R, Singh SK, Misra S. Advancements in Cancer Immunotherapies. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 11:vaccines11010059. [PMID: 36679904 PMCID: PMC9861770 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent work has suggested involvement of the immune system in biological therapies specifically targeting tumor microenvironment. Substantial advancement in the treatment of malignant tumors utilizing immune cells, most importantly T cells that play a key role in cell-mediated immunity, have led to success in clinical trials. Therefore, this article focuses on the therapeutic approaches and developmental strategies to treat cancer. This review emphasizes the immunomodulatory response, the involvement of key tumor-infiltrating cells, the mechanistic aspects, and prognostic biomarkers. We also cover recent advancements in therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Roy
- UICentre for Drug Discovery, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Sunil Kumar Singh
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Sweta Misra
- UICentre for Drug Discovery, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
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48
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Hong J, Lee JH, Zhang Z, Wu Y, Yang M, Liao Y, de la Rosa R, Scheirer J, Pechacek D, Zhang N, Xu Z, Curiel T, Tan X, Huang THM, Xu K. PRC2-Mediated Epigenetic Suppression of Type I IFN-STAT2 Signaling Impairs Antitumor Immunity in Luminal Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2022; 82:4624-4640. [PMID: 36222718 PMCID: PMC9772098 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-0736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in some cancer types, such as luminal breast cancer, supports tumor growth and limits therapeutic efficacy. Identifying approaches to induce an immunostimulatory environment could help improve cancer treatment. Here, we demonstrate that inhibition of cancer-intrinsic EZH2 promotes antitumor immunity in estrogen receptor α-positive (ERα+) breast cancer. EZH2 is a component of the polycomb-repressive complex 2 (PRC2) complex, which catalyzes trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3). A 53-gene PRC2 activity signature was closely associated with the immune responses of ERα+ breast cancer cells. The stimulatory effects of EZH2 inhibition on immune surveillance required specific activation of type I IFN signaling. Integrative analysis of PRC2-repressed genes and genome-wide H3K27me3 landscape revealed that type I IFN ligands are epigenetically silenced by H3K27me3. Notably, the transcription factor STAT2, but not STAT1, mediated the immunostimulatory functions of type I IFN signaling. Following EZH2 inhibition, STAT2 was recruited to the promoters of IFN-stimulated genes even in the absence of the cytokines, suggesting the formation of an autocrine IFN-STAT2 axis. In patients with luminal breast cancer, high levels of EZH2 and low levels of STAT2 were associated with the worst antitumor immune responses. Collectively, this work paves the way for the development of an effective therapeutic strategy that may reverse immunosuppression in cancer. SIGNIFICANCE Inhibition of EZH2 activates a type I IFN-STAT2 signaling axis and provides a therapeutic strategy to stimulate antitumor immunity and therapy responsiveness in immunologically cold luminal breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juyeong Hong
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Ji Hoon Lee
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Zhao Zhang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Yanming Wu
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Mei Yang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Yiji Liao
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Richard de la Rosa
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Jessica Scheirer
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Douglas Pechacek
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Nu Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Zhenming Xu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Tyler Curiel
- Department of Medicine, The Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Xi Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Tim H-M Huang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Kexin Xu
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA,Corresponding author: Kexin Xu, Ph.D. Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229. Phone: 210-562-4148; Fax: 210-562-4161;
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49
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Germanos AA, Arora S, Zheng Y, Goddard ET, Coleman IM, Ku AT, Wilkinson S, Song H, Brady NJ, Amezquita RA, Zager M, Long A, Yang YC, Bielas JH, Gottardo R, Rickman DS, Huang FW, Ghajar CM, Nelson PS, Sowalsky AG, Setty M, Hsieh AC. Defining cellular population dynamics at single-cell resolution during prostate cancer progression. eLife 2022; 11:e79076. [PMID: 36511483 PMCID: PMC9747158 DOI: 10.7554/elife.79076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced prostate malignancies are a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men, in large part due to our incomplete understanding of cellular drivers of disease progression. We investigate prostate cancer cell dynamics at single-cell resolution from disease onset to the development of androgen independence in an in vivo murine model. We observe an expansion of a castration-resistant intermediate luminal cell type that correlates with treatment resistance and poor prognosis in human patients. Moreover, transformed epithelial cells and associated fibroblasts create a microenvironment conducive to pro-tumorigenic immune infiltration, which is partially androgen responsive. Androgen-independent prostate cancer leads to significant diversification of intermediate luminal cell populations characterized by a range of androgen signaling activity, which is inversely correlated with proliferation and mRNA translation. Accordingly, distinct epithelial populations are exquisitely sensitive to translation inhibition, which leads to epithelial cell death, loss of pro-tumorigenic signaling, and decreased tumor heterogeneity. Our findings reveal a complex tumor environment largely dominated by castration-resistant luminal cells and immunosuppressive infiltrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre A Germanos
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
- University of Washington Molecular and Cellular Biology ProgramSeattleUnited States
| | - Sonali Arora
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Ye Zheng
- Division of Vaccine and infectious Diseases, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Erica T Goddard
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Ilsa M Coleman
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Anson T Ku
- Laboratory of Genitourinary Cancer Pathogenesis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaUnited States
| | - Scott Wilkinson
- Laboratory of Genitourinary Cancer Pathogenesis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaUnited States
| | - Hanbing Song
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Nicholas J Brady
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell MedicineNew YorkUnited States
| | - Robert A Amezquita
- Division of Vaccine and infectious Diseases, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Michael Zager
- Center for Data Visualization, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Annalysa Long
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Yu Chi Yang
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Jason H Bielas
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Raphael Gottardo
- Division of Vaccine and infectious Diseases, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - David S Rickman
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell MedicineNew YorkUnited States
| | - Franklin W Huang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Cyrus M Ghajar
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Peter S Nelson
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
- University of Washington Departments of Medicine and Genome SciencesSeattleUnited States
| | - Adam G Sowalsky
- Laboratory of Genitourinary Cancer Pathogenesis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaUnited States
| | - Manu Setty
- Translational Data Science Integrated Research Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Andrew C Hsieh
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleUnited States
- University of Washington Departments of Medicine and Genome SciencesSeattleUnited States
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50
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The cGAS-STING pathway and cancer. NATURE CANCER 2022; 3:1452-1463. [PMID: 36510011 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-022-00468-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway has emerged as a critical innate immune pathway that, following engagement by DNA, promotes distinct immune effector responses that can impact virtually all aspects of tumorigenesis, from malignant cell transformation to metastasis. Here we address how natural tumor-associated processes and traditional cancer therapies are shaped by cGAS-STING signaling, and how this contributes to beneficial or detrimental outcomes of cancer. We consider current efforts to target the cGAS-STING axis in tumors and highlight new frontiers in cGAS-STING biology to inspire thinking about their connection to cancer.
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