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Mello CA, Campos FAB, Santos TG, Silva MLG, Torrezan GT, Costa FD, Formiga MN, Nicolau U, Nascimento AG, Silva C, Curado MP, Nakagawa SA, Lopes A, Aguiar S. Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor: A Review of Main Molecular Abnormalities and Emerging Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030498. [PMID: 33525546 PMCID: PMC7865637 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Desmoplastic small round cell tumor is a rare neoplasm with extremely aggressive behavior. Despite the multimodal treatment for newly diagnosed patients with chemotherapy, cytoreductive surgery and radiation, the cure rate is still low. For relapsed or progressive disease, there is limited data regarding second and third-line therapies. Novel agents have shown only modest activity. Recent molecular changes have been identified in this disease and this opens opportunities to be explored in future clinical trials. Abstract Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is an extremely rare, aggressive sarcoma affecting adolescents and young adults with male predominance. Generally, it originates from the serosal surface of the abdominal cavity. The hallmark characteristic of DSRCT is the EWSR1–WT1 gene fusion. This translocation up-regulates the expression of PDGFRα, VEGF and other proteins related to tumor and vascular cell proliferation. Current management of DSRCT includes a combination of chemotherapy, radiation and aggressive cytoreductive surgery plus intra-peritoneal hyperthermic chemotherapy (HIPEC). Despite advances in multimodal therapy, outcomes remain poor since the majority of patients present disease recurrence and die within three years. The dismal survival makes DSRCT an orphan disease with an urgent need for new drugs. The treatment of advanced and recurrent disease with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as pazopanib, sunitinib, and mTOR inhibitors was evaluated by small trials. Recent studies using comprehensive molecular profiling of DSRCT identified potential therapeutic targets. In this review, we aim to describe the current studies conducted to better understand DSRCT biology and to explore the new therapeutic strategies under investigation in preclinical models and in early phase clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celso Abdon Mello
- Department of Medical Oncology, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil; (F.A.B.C.); (M.N.F.); (U.N.); (C.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-11-2189-2779
| | - Fernando Augusto Batista Campos
- Department of Medical Oncology, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil; (F.A.B.C.); (M.N.F.); (U.N.); (C.S.)
| | - Tiago Goss Santos
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Biomarkers, International Center of Research CIPE, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil;
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Oncogenomics and Therapeutic Innovation, Sao Paulo 05403-010, Brazil;
| | | | - Giovana Tardin Torrezan
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Oncogenomics and Therapeutic Innovation, Sao Paulo 05403-010, Brazil;
- Genomics and Molecular Biology Group, International Center of Research CIPE, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01508-010, Brazil
| | - Felipe D’Almeida Costa
- Department of Pathology, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil; (F.D.C.); (A.G.N.)
| | - Maria Nirvana Formiga
- Department of Medical Oncology, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil; (F.A.B.C.); (M.N.F.); (U.N.); (C.S.)
| | - Ulisses Nicolau
- Department of Medical Oncology, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil; (F.A.B.C.); (M.N.F.); (U.N.); (C.S.)
| | | | - Cassia Silva
- Department of Medical Oncology, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil; (F.A.B.C.); (M.N.F.); (U.N.); (C.S.)
| | - Maria Paula Curado
- Department of Epidemiology, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01508-010, Brazil;
| | - Suely Akiko Nakagawa
- Department of Surgery, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil; (S.A.N.); (A.L.)
| | - Ademar Lopes
- Department of Surgery, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil; (S.A.N.); (A.L.)
| | - Samuel Aguiar
- Department of Surgery, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo 01509-010, Brazil; (S.A.N.); (A.L.)
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Loktev A, Shipley JM. Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT): emerging therapeutic targets and future directions for potential therapies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:281-285. [PMID: 32125905 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1738392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Loktev
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Janet M Shipley
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
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Werner H, Meisel-Sharon S, Bruchim I. Oncogenic fusion proteins adopt the insulin-like growth factor signaling pathway. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:28. [PMID: 29455671 PMCID: PMC5817802 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0807-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) has been identified as a potent anti-apoptotic, pro-survival tyrosine kinase-containing receptor. Overexpression of the IGF1R gene constitutes a typical feature of most human cancers. Consistent with these biological roles, cells expressing high levels of IGF1R are expected not to die, a quintessential feature of cancer cells. Tumor specific chromosomal translocations that disrupt the architecture of transcription factors are a common theme in carcinogenesis. Increasing evidence gathered over the past fifteen years demonstrate that this type of genomic rearrangements is common not only among pediatric and hematological malignancies, as classically thought, but may also provide a molecular and cytogenetic foundation for an ever-increasing portion of adult epithelial tumors. In this review article we provide evidence that the mechanism of action of oncogenic fusion proteins associated with both pediatric and adult malignancies involves transactivation of the IGF1R gene, with ensuing increases in IGF1R levels and ligand-mediated receptor phosphorylation. Disrupted transcription factors adopt the IGF1R signaling pathway and elicit their oncogenic activities via activation of this critical regulatory network. Combined targeting of oncogenic fusion proteins along with the IGF1R may constitute a promising therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haim Werner
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel. .,Yoran Institute for Human Genome Research, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Shilhav Meisel-Sharon
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ilan Bruchim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera 38100, affiliated with the Technion Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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4
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Kenny C, McDonagh N, Lazaro A, O'Meara E, Klinger R, O'Connor D, Roche F, Hokamp K, O'Sullivan MJ. Dysregulated mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling as an oncogenic basis for clear cell sarcoma of the kidney. J Pathol 2018; 244:334-345. [PMID: 29243812 DOI: 10.1002/path.5020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The oncogenic mechanisms and tumour biology underpinning clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK), the second commonest paediatric renal malignancy, are poorly understood and currently, therapy depends heavily on doxorubicin with cardiotoxic side-effects. Previously, we characterized the balanced t(10;17)(q22;p13) chromosomal translocation, identified at that time as the only recurrent genetic aberration in CCSK. This translocation results in an in-frame fusion of the genes YWHAE (encoding 14-3-3ϵ) and NUTM2, with a somatic incidence of 12%. Clinico-pathological features of that cohort suggested that this aberration might be associated with higher stage and grade disease. Since no primary CCSK cell line exists, we generated various stably transfected cell lines containing doxycycline-inducible HA-tagged YWHAE-NUTM2, in order to study the effect of expressing this transcript. 14-3-3ϵ-NUTM2-expressing cells exhibited significantly greater cell migration compared to isogenic controls. Gene and protein expression studies were indicative of dysregulated MAPK/PI3K-AKT signalling, and by blocking these pathways using neutralizing antibodies, the migratory advantage conferred by the transcript was abrogated. Importantly, CCSK tumour samples similarly show up-regulation/activation of these pathways. These results support the oncogenic role of 14-3-3ϵ-NUTM2 in CCSK and provide avenues for the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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MESH Headings
- 14-3-3 Proteins/genetics
- 14-3-3 Proteins/metabolism
- Animals
- Cell Movement
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/pathology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Gene Fusion
- HEK293 Cells
- Humans
- Kidney Neoplasms/enzymology
- Kidney Neoplasms/genetics
- Kidney Neoplasms/pathology
- Mice
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/genetics
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism
- NIH 3T3 Cells
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/metabolism
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/metabolism
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism
- Sarcoma, Clear Cell/enzymology
- Sarcoma, Clear Cell/genetics
- Sarcoma, Clear Cell/pathology
- Signal Transduction
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Kenny
- School of Medicine, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Naomi McDonagh
- School of Medicine, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Antonio Lazaro
- School of Medicine, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elaine O'Meara
- School of Medicine, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rut Klinger
- Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Darran O'Connor
- Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fiona Roche
- School of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karsten Hokamp
- School of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maureen J O'Sullivan
- School of Medicine, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
- Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
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Yuan J, Yin Z, Tao K, Wang G, Gao J. Function of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor in cancer resistance to chemotherapy. Oncol Lett 2017; 15:41-47. [PMID: 29285186 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.7276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is a primary cause of chemotherapeutic failure; however, how this resistance develops is complex. A comprehensive understanding of chemotherapeutic resistance mechanisms may aid in identifying more effective drugs and improve the survival rates of patients with cancer. Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), a member of the insulin receptor family, has been extensively assessed for biological activity, and its putative contribution to tumor cell development and progression. Furthermore, researchers have attended to drugs that target IGF1R since IGF1R functions as a membrane receptor. However, how IGF1R participates in chemotherapeutic resistance remains unclear. Therefore, the present study described the IGF1R gene and its associated signaling pathways, and offered details of IGF1R-induced tumor chemoresistance associated with promoting cell proliferation, inhibition of apoptosis, regulation of ATP-binding cassette transporter proteins and interactions with the extracellular matrix. The present study offered additional explanations for tumor chemotherapy resistance and provided a theoretical basis of IGF1R and its downstream pathways for future possible chemotherapy treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingsheng Yuan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Zhijie Yin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Kaixiong Tao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Guobing Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Jinbo Gao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
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Andersson MK, Afshari MK, Andrén Y, Wick MJ, Stenman G. Targeting the Oncogenic Transcriptional Regulator MYB in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma by Inhibition of IGF1R/AKT Signaling. J Natl Cancer Inst 2017; 109:3845954. [DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djx017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mattias K. Andersson
- Affiliations of authors: Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Pathology and Genetics, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden (MKA, MKA, YA, GS); Preclinical Research, South Texas Accelerated Research Therapeutics, San Antonio, TX (MJW)
| | - Maryam K. Afshari
- Affiliations of authors: Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Pathology and Genetics, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden (MKA, MKA, YA, GS); Preclinical Research, South Texas Accelerated Research Therapeutics, San Antonio, TX (MJW)
| | - Ywonne Andrén
- Affiliations of authors: Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Pathology and Genetics, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden (MKA, MKA, YA, GS); Preclinical Research, South Texas Accelerated Research Therapeutics, San Antonio, TX (MJW)
| | - Michael J. Wick
- Affiliations of authors: Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Pathology and Genetics, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden (MKA, MKA, YA, GS); Preclinical Research, South Texas Accelerated Research Therapeutics, San Antonio, TX (MJW)
| | - Göran Stenman
- Affiliations of authors: Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Pathology and Genetics, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden (MKA, MKA, YA, GS); Preclinical Research, South Texas Accelerated Research Therapeutics, San Antonio, TX (MJW)
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Bétrian S, Bergeron C, Blay JY, Bompas E, Cassier PA, Chevallier L, Fayette J, Girodet M, Guillemet C, Le Cesne A, Marec-Berard P, Ray-Coquard I, Chevreau C. Antiangiogenic effects in patients with progressive desmoplastic small round cell tumor: data from the French national registry dedicated to the use of off-labeled targeted therapy in sarcoma (OUTC's). Clin Sarcoma Res 2017; 7:10. [PMID: 28491276 PMCID: PMC5424317 DOI: 10.1186/s13569-017-0076-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a very rare mesenchymal tumor that mainly affects teenagers and young adults with a mean age at diagnosis around 20-25 years. Although initial management still needs standardization, many centers will use multimodal treatment including intensive chemotherapy, extensive surgical resection followed by radiotherapy. Despite this, prognosis remains very poor and the median overall survival is 25 months. Recurrent disease is mainly treated by chemotherapy. Recently, due to the unmet medical need for recurrent disease, targeted therapies were explored for DSRCT. METHODS In this study, we assessed the response rate and progression free survival in nine cases of progressive DSRCT included in the OUTC's registry and treated with antiangiogenics targeted agents (sunitinib, sorafenib and bevacizumab). OUTC's, a French national registry, collects data about the use of off-label targeted therapy in sarcoma. RESULTS Eight males and one woman were included, with median age at diagnosis of 27.3 years (range from 9 to 48 years). They received a mean 3 lines (2-5) of treatment before antiangiogenic agent initiation. Six patients received sunitinib, two received sorafenib and one bevacizumab. Median progression free survival was 3.1 months (range 2-5.5 months) and best response observed was 5.5 months stable disease. Most patients had manageable low-grade toxicities, mainly fatigue, abdominal pain and skin toxicity. CONCLUSIONS Despite very limited activity of antiangiogenics in our study, prospective collection of cases of these rare tumors together with molecular data should guide therapeutic decision and enhance outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bétrian
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Institut Claudius Regaud, Institut Universitaire du Cancer, Toulouse Oncopole, 1 avenue Irène Joliot-Curie, 31059 Toulouse Cedex, France
| | - Christophe Bergeron
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Centre Léon Berard and Institut d'Hématologie et d'Oncologie Pédiatrique, Lyon, France
| | - Jean-Yves Blay
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Centre Léon Berard, Lyon, France
| | - Emmanuelle Bompas
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest, Rene Gauducheau, St Herblain, France
| | - Philippe A Cassier
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Centre Léon Berard, Lyon, France
| | - Laure Chevallier
- Clinical Research Department, CRA, Centre Léon Berard, Lyon, France
| | - Jérome Fayette
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Centre Léon Berard, Lyon, France
| | - Magali Girodet
- Clinical Research Department, CRA, Centre Léon Berard, Lyon, France
| | - Cécile Guillemet
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Centre Henri Becquerel, Rouen, France
| | - Axel Le Cesne
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Institut Gustave Roussy, Paris, France
| | - Perrine Marec-Berard
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Centre Léon Berard and Institut d'Hématologie et d'Oncologie Pédiatrique, Lyon, France
| | | | - Christine Chevreau
- Departments of Oncology and Clinical Research, Institut Claudius Regaud, Institut Universitaire du Cancer, Toulouse Oncopole, 1 avenue Irène Joliot-Curie, 31059 Toulouse Cedex, France
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Sharon SM, Pozniak Y, Geiger T, Werner H. TMPRSS2-ERG fusion protein regulates insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) gene expression in prostate cancer: involvement of transcription factor Sp1. Oncotarget 2016; 7:51375-51392. [PMID: 27285981 PMCID: PMC5239482 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a major health issue in the Western world. The most common gene rearrangement in prostate cancer is the TMPRSS2-ERG fusion, which results in aberrant expression of the transcription factor ERG. The insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) plays a key role in cell growth and tumorigenesis, and is overexpressed in most malignancies, including prostate cancer. In this study we show that TMPRSS2-ERG mediates its tumorigenic effects through regulation of IGF1R gene expression. Silencing of T-ERG in VCaP cells resulted in downregulation of both IGF1R and Sp1, a critical IGF1R regulator. Co-immunoprecipitation assays revealed a physical interaction between transcription factors ERG and Sp1, with potential relevance in IGF1R gene regulation. In addition, transactivation of the IGF1R gene by ERG was mediated at the level of transcription, as indicated by results of promoter assays. To identify new co-activators of the TMPRSS2-ERG fusion protein we performed mass spectrometry-based proteomic analyses. Among other interactors, we identified AP-2 complex subunit mu (AP2M1) and caveolin-1 (CAV1) in association with ERG in cell nuclei. These proteins play a mechanistic role in IGF1R internalization. Our analyses are consistent with a potential novel function of TMPRSS2-ERG as a major regulator of IGF1R gene expression. Results may impinge upon ongoing efforts to target the IGF1R in the clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilhav Meisel Sharon
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Yair Pozniak
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Tamar Geiger
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Haim Werner
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Yoran Institute for Human Genome Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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Mora J, Modak S, Cheung NK, Meyers P, de Alava E, Kushner B, Magnan H, Tirado OM, Laquaglia M, Ladanyi M, Rosai J. Desmoplastic small round cell tumor 20 years after its discovery. Future Oncol 2016; 11:1071-81. [PMID: 25804122 DOI: 10.2217/fon.15.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) was proposed as a distinct disease entity by William L Gerald and Juan Rosai in 1991. Over 850 patients have been reported in the medical literature. A specific translocation, t(11;22)(p13;q12), is seen in almost all cases, juxtaposing the EWS gene to the WT1 tumor suppressor gene. DSRCT is composed of nests of small round cells with polyphenotypic differentiation, typically a mixture of epithelial, mesenchymal and neural features, surrounded by a prominent desmoplastic stroma. DSRCT has a predilection for adolescent and young adult males, and primarily involves the abdominal cavity and pelvis. Survival is low despite their initial response to multimodal treatment. Most patients relapse with disseminated disease that is unresponsive to further therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaume Mora
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
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Werner H, Sarfstein R. Transcriptional and epigenetic control of IGF1R gene expression: implications in metabolism and cancer. Growth Horm IGF Res 2014; 24:112-118. [PMID: 24863809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2014.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
IGF1R plays an important role in protection from apoptosis, regulation of cell growth, differentiation and oncogenic transformation. IGF1R aberrations lead to intrauterine and postnatal growth failure, microcephaly, mental retardation and deafness. High levels of IGF1R are detected in a diversity of human tumors. IGF1R gene transcription is controlled by complex interactions involving DNA-binding and non DNA-binding transcription factors. This review highlights selected examples of a series of tumor suppressors, including the breast cancer gene-1 (BRCA1), p53, the Wilm's tumor protein-1 (WT1) and the von Hippel-Lindau gene (VHL), whose mechanisms of action involve regulation of IGF1R gene expression. IGF1R gene transcription is also dependent on the presence of stimulatory nuclear proteins, including zinc-finger protein Sp1, EWS-WT1, E2F1, Krüppel-like factor-6 (KLF6), high-mobility group A1 (HMGA1), and others. Loss-of-function of tumor suppressor genes, usually caused by mutations, may result in non-functional proteins unable to control IGF1R promoter activity. Impaired regulation of the IGF1R gene is linked to defective cell division, chromosomal instability and increased incidence of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haim Werner
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
| | - Rive Sarfstein
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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11
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Wong HH, Hatcher HM, Benson C, Al-Muderis O, Horan G, Fisher C, Earl HM, Judson I. Desmoplastic small round cell tumour: characteristics and prognostic factors of 41 patients and review of the literature. Clin Sarcoma Res 2013; 3:14. [PMID: 24280007 PMCID: PMC4176496 DOI: 10.1186/2045-3329-3-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 11/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Desmoplastic small round cell tumour (DSRCT) is a rare but frequently fatal sarcoma, and many of its characteristics still require further clarification. Methods We retrospectively analysed 41 patients treated at or referred to two regional referral centres in the UK between 1991 and 2012. A review of the current literature was also performed. Results The median age of presentation was 27 years (range 16 to 45 years), with a male-to-female ratio of 3:1. Ninety percent of patients had disease in the abdomen. The median size of the presenting tumour was 13 cm (range 3.5 to 23 cm), and 80% had metastatic disease at diagnosis, mainly in the liver (33%) and lungs (21%). Time-to-progression (TTP) was 3.9, 2.3 and 1.1 months after first-, second- and third-line chemotherapy, respectively. First-line treatment with VIDE chemotherapy appeared to confer the longest TTP (median 14.6 months). Ifosfamide and doxorubicin resulted in TTP of >3.8 months when used in any-line setting. Eleven patients received targeted agents as part of a clinical trial. After a median follow-up of 14 months, the overall median survival (MS) was 16 months. There was no difference in MS with regards to age, gender, or size of the presenting tumour. Patients with extra-abdominal disease survived longer compared to those with tumours in the abdomen (all still alive vs MS of 15 months; P = 0.0246). Patients with non-metastatic intra-abdominal disease who underwent surgery had an MS of 47 months (16 months for those who did not have surgery; P = 0.0235). Radiotherapy for locoregional control in patients with metastatic intra-abdominal DSRCT was associated with longer survival (MS of 47 vs 14 months; P = 0.0147). Conclusions DSRCT is a rare but often fatal disease that mainly affects younger male patients. Those with intra-abdominal DSRCT have a poorer prognosis, although surgical resection for localised disease and radiotherapy in the metastatic setting are associated with improved survival. A patient’s age, gender and size of presenting tumour do not have prognostic significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Hsi Wong
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK.
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12
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Lost miRNA surveillance of Notch, IGFR pathway—road to sarcomagenesis. Tumour Biol 2013; 35:483-92. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-013-1068-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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Martín Liberal J, Lagares-Tena L, Sáinz-Jaspeado M, Mateo-Lozano S, García del Muro X, Tirado OM. Targeted therapies in sarcomas: challenging the challenge. Sarcoma 2012; 2012:626094. [PMID: 22701332 PMCID: PMC3372278 DOI: 10.1155/2012/626094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Accepted: 03/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are a heterogeneous group of mesenchymal malignancies that very often lead to death. Nowadays, chemotherapy is the only available treatment for most sarcomas but there are few active drugs and clinical results still remain very poor. Thus, there is an imperious need to find new therapeutic alternatives in order to improve sarcoma patient's outcome. During the last years, there have been described a number of new molecular pathways that have allowed us to know more about cancer biology and tumorigenesis. Sarcomas are one of the tumors in which more advances have been made. Identification of specific chromosomal translocations, some important pathways characterization such as mTOR pathway or the insulin-like growth factor pathway, the stunning development in angiogenesis knowledge, and brand new agents like viruses have lead to the development of new therapeutic options with promising results. This paper makes an exhaustive review of preclinical and clinical evidence of the most recent targeted therapies in sarcomas and provides a future view of treatments that may lead to improve prognosis of patients affected with this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Martín Liberal
- Laboratori d'Oncología Molecular, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Lagares-Tena
- Laboratori d'Oncología Molecular, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Sáinz-Jaspeado
- Laboratori d'Oncología Molecular, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Mateo-Lozano
- Nanomedicine Research Program, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Research Center, CIBBIM-Nanomedicine, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Research Institute, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier García del Muro
- Laboratori d'Oncología Molecular, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oscar M. Tirado
- Laboratori d'Oncología Molecular, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
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Tap WD, Demetri G, Barnette P, Desai J, Kavan P, Tozer R, Benedetto PW, Friberg G, Deng H, McCaffery I, Leitch I, Badola S, Chang S, Zhu M, Tolcher A. Phase II study of ganitumab, a fully human anti-type-1 insulin-like growth factor receptor antibody, in patients with metastatic Ewing family tumors or desmoplastic small round cell tumors. J Clin Oncol 2012; 30:1849-56. [PMID: 22508822 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2011.37.2359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Ganitumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody against type-1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R). An open-label phase II study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ganitumab monotherapy in patients with metastatic Ewing family tumors (EFT) or desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCT). PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients ≥16 years of age with relapsed or refractory EFT or DSRCT received 12 mg/kg of ganitumab every 2 weeks. Objective response rate (ORR) was the primary end point. Secondary end points included clinical benefit rate (CBR = complete + partial responses + stable disease [SD] ≥ 24 weeks) and safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of ganitumab. The relationship between tumor response and EWS gene translocation status and IGF-1 levels was evaluated. RESULTS Thirty-eight patients (22 with EFT; 16 with DSRCT) received one or more doses of ganitumab. Twenty-four patients (63%) experienced ganitumab-related adverse events. Grade 3 related events included hyperglycemia (n = 2), thrombocytopenia (n = 5), neutropenia (n = 2), leukopenia (n = 1), and transient ischemic attack (n = 1). There were no grade 4 or 5 treatment-related events. Of 35 patients assessed for response, two had partial responses (ORR, 6%) and 17 (49%) had SD. Four patients had SD ≥ 24 weeks, contributing to a CBR of 17%. The pharmacokinetic profile of ganitumab was similar to that observed in the first-in-human trial. Elevation of IGF-1 levels was observed postdose. EWS-Fli1 translocations were analyzed by RNA sequencing and fluorescent in situ hybridization, and novel translocations were observed in EFT and DSCRT. No apparent relationship between tumor response and IGF-1 levels or EWS gene translocations was observed. CONCLUSION Ganitumab was well tolerated and demonstrated antitumor activity in patients with advanced recurrent EFT or DSRCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- William D Tap
- University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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15
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Tumor suppressors govern insulin-like growth factor signaling pathways: implications in metabolism and cancer. Oncogene 2011; 31:2703-14. [DOI: 10.1038/onc.2011.447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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16
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Cassier PA, Labidi-Galy SI, Heudel P, Dutour A, Méeus P, Chelghoum M, Alberti L, Ray-Coquard I, Blay JY. Therapeutic pipeline for soft-tissue sarcoma. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2011; 12:2479-91. [PMID: 21913865 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2011.604633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) represent a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors originating from connective tissues. Over recent years, this heterogeneity has led to a molecular breakdown of STS and subsequent use of targeted agents in several molecularly defined subgroups. After the initial success of imatinib in gastrointestinal stromal tumors, several other compounds have shown promising activity in some but not all subgroups of sarcoma. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the rational and clinical results, when available, that support this subtype-directed approach. In the vast majority of cases, these agents have been tested only in patients with advanced disease; as chemotherapeutic agents are developed as non-histotype-specific therapies, they are not discussed here. The PubMed literature was searched using the terms 'sarcoma', 'angiogenesis', 'mTOR' and 'targeted agents'. Proceedings of the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology as well as those of the Connective Tissue Oncology Society were also searched for relevant information. EXPERT OPINION Many agents are currently developed in a subtype-specific manner in STS and this represents a significant leap forward. However, much remains to be done to improve our understanding of the molecular biology of this heterogeneous group of diseases.
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Olmos D, Tan DSW, Jones RL, Judson IR. Biological rationale and current clinical experience with anti-insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor monoclonal antibodies in treating sarcoma: twenty years from the bench to the bedside. Cancer J 2010; 16:183-94. [PMID: 20526094 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0b013e3181dbebf9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Two decades have elapsed since insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) signaling was initially implicated in sarcoma biology to the first clinical experience of IGF-1R blockade in sarcoma. During these 21 years, the IGF pathway and its key mediator IGF-1R have been implicated in the genesis, growth, proliferation, metastasis, and resistance to conventional treatment in several sarcoma subtypes. In addition, IGF-1R has been validated, both in vitro and in vivo, as a target for the treatment of sarcoma. Several radiologic and clinical responses to IGF-1R monoclonal antibodies have been reported in Ewing sarcoma patients enrolled in early clinical studies. Furthermore, these therapies were well tolerated, and thus far severe toxicity has been rare. The early clinical evidence of antitumor activity has supported the initiation of various phase II clinical trials in Ewing and other sarcoma subtypes, the results of which are eagerly awaited, as well as studies assessing IGF-1R monoclonal antibodies in combination with traditional cytotoxics or other targeted therapies. Despite these encouraging results, not all patients benefit from IGF-1R inhibition and consequently there is an urgent need for the identification of predictive markers of response.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Olmos
- Sarcoma Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
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Wells J, Rivera MN, Kim WJ, Starbuck K, Haber DA. The predominant WT1 isoform (+KTS) encodes a DNA-binding protein targeting the planar cell polarity gene Scribble in renal podocytes. Mol Cancer Res 2010; 8:975-85. [PMID: 20571064 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-10-0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
WT1 encodes a tumor suppressor first identified by its inactivation in Wilms' Tumor. Although one WT1 splicing variant encodes a well-characterized zinc finger transcription factor, little is known about the function of the most prevalent WT1 isoform, whose DNA binding domain is disrupted by a three-amino acid (KTS) insertion. Using cells that conditionally express WT1(+KTS), we undertook a genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation and cloning analysis to identify candidate WT1(+KTS)-regulated promoters. We identified the planar cell polarity gene Scribble (SCRB) as the first WT1(+KTS) target gene in podocytes of the kidney. WT1 and SCRB expression patterns overlap precisely in developing renal glomeruli of mice, and WT1(+KTS) binds to a 33-nucleotide region within the Scribble promoter in mouse and human cell lines and kidneys. Together, our results support a role for the predominant WT1(+KTS) isoform in transcriptional regulation and suggest a link between the WT1-dependent tumor suppressor pathway and a key component of the planar cell polarity pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Wells
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
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Rikhof B, de Jong S, Suurmeijer AJH, Meijer C, van der Graaf WTA. The insulin-like growth factor system and sarcomas. J Pathol 2009; 217:469-82. [PMID: 19148905 DOI: 10.1002/path.2499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Sarcomas are a diverse group of malignant mesenchymal tumours arising from bone and soft tissues. The identification of critical cellular signalling pathways in sarcomas is an important issue for the development of new targeted therapies. This review highlights the experimental and clinical evidence supporting the role of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signalling system in the cellular transformation and progression of several types of sarcoma, including rhabdomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma and osteosarcoma. Preclinical data suggest that the IGF system could be a promising target for therapy in these sarcomas. Currently, therapies interrupting IGF signalling have been or are being developed. In recent phase 1 clinical studies with humanized monoclonal antibodies directed against IGF receptor type 1 (IGF-1R), objective tumour responses were observed in several patients with Ewing's sarcoma, encouraging further clinical testing in Ewing's sarcoma and other sarcoma (sub)types. Moreover, the occasional occurrence of paraneoplastic hypoglycaemia as a result of the secretion of incompletely processed forms of pro-IGF-II by sarcomas is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Rikhof
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
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20
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Li H, Smolen GA, Beers LF, Xia L, Gerald W, Wang J, Haber DA, Lee SB. Adenosine transporter ENT4 is a direct target of EWS/WT1 translocation product and is highly expressed in desmoplastic small round cell tumor. PLoS One 2008; 3:e2353. [PMID: 18523561 PMCID: PMC2394657 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0002353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2008] [Accepted: 04/30/2008] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor (DSRCT) is a highly aggressive malignancy that affects mainly adolescents and young adults. A defining characteristic of DSRCT is a specific chromosomal translocation, t(11;22)(p13;q12), that fuses EWS with WT1, leading to a production of two isoforms of chimeric transcription factor, EWS/WT1(−KTS) and EWS/WT1(+KTS). The chimeric proteins are thought to play critical roles in various stages of oncogenesis through aberrant transcription of different genes, but only a few of these genes have been identified. Methodology/Principal Findings We report the identification of a new target of EWS/WT1, ENT4 (equilibrative nucleoside transporter 4) which encodes a pH-dependent adenosine transporter. ENT4 is transcriptionally activated by both isoforms of EWS/WT1 as evidenced by promoter-reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analyses. Furthermore, ENT4 is highly and specifically expressed in primary tumors of DSRCT as well as in a DSRCT cell line, JN-DSRCT-1. Treatment of JN-DSRCT-1 cells with adenosine analogs, such as 2-chloro-2′-deoxyadenosine (2-CdA), resulted in an increased cytotoxic response in dose- and pH-dependent manner. Conclusions/Significance Our detailed analyses of a novel target of EWS/WT1 in DSRCT reveal an insight into the oncogenic mechanism of EWS-fusion chromosomal translocation gene products and provide a new marker for DSRCT. Furthermore, identification of ENT4 as a highly expressed transcript in DSRCT may represent an attractive pathway for targeting chemotherapeutic drugs into DSRCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Li
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Gromoslaw A. Smolen
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lisa F. Beers
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Li Xia
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - William Gerald
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Joanne Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Daniel A. Haber
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sean Bong Lee
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Werner H, Idelman G, Rubinstein M, Pattee P, Nagalla SR, Roberts CT. A novel EWS-WT1 gene fusion product in desmoplastic small round cell tumor is a potent transactivator of the insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR) gene. Cancer Lett 2007; 247:84-90. [PMID: 16730884 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2006.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2006] [Revised: 03/19/2006] [Accepted: 03/24/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a primitive sarcoma characterized by a recurrent chromosomal translocation, t(11;22)(p13;q12), which fuses the 5' exons of the EWS gene to the 3' exons of the WT1 gene. EWS-WT1 chimeras are heterogeneous as a result of fusions of different regions of the EWS gene to the WT1 gene. We report here a rare and novel EWS-WT1 variant, EWS-WT1 5/10, in a 6-year-old boy diagnosed with DSRCT and analyze the potential transactivation effect of the fusion oncoprotein. The predicted product is comprised of the N-terminal transactivation domain of EWS and lacks any sequence derived from the WT1 gene product. Nonetheless, the truncated protein was able to stimulate expression of the insulin-like growth factor-I receptor gene, a potent antiapoptotic receptor tyrosine kinase with potentially important roles in DSRCT etiology. These findings raise the possibility that the oncogenic potential of EWS-WT1 fusions is not necessarily a consequence of the fusion protein product per se.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haim Werner
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, 69978 Tel Aviv, Israel.
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Werner H, Maor S. The insulin-like growth factor-I receptor gene: a downstream target for oncogene and tumor suppressor action. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2006; 17:236-42. [PMID: 16815029 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2006.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2006] [Revised: 06/06/2006] [Accepted: 06/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR) mediates the biological actions of both IGF-I and IGF-II. The IGF-IR is expressed in most transformed cells, where it displays potent antiapoptotic and cell-survival activities. IGF-IR levels are tightly regulated by the concerted action of secreted (e.g. peptide and steroid hormones, growth factors and cytokines) and cellular (e.g. transcription factors, oncogenes and tumor suppressors) factors. The mode of action of many tumor suppressors involves transcriptional suppression of the IGF-IR gene, with a subsequent reduction in cell-surface IGF-IR concentrations and IGF-I action. Loss-of-function mutation of tumor suppressors, a common theme in human cancer, can lead to aberrant regulation of IGF-IR gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haim Werner
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
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Abstract
Wilms' tumour, or nephroblastoma, is a common childhood tumour that is intimately linked to early kidney development and is often associated with persistent embryonic renal tissue and other kidney abnormalities. WT1, the first gene found to be inactivated in Wilms' tumour, encodes a transcription factor that functions as both a tumour suppressor and a critical regulator of renal organogenesis. Our understanding of the roles of WT1 in tumour formation and organogenesis have advanced in parallel, providing a striking example of the intersection between tumour biology, cellular differentiation and normal organogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel N Rivera
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129, USA.
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Ito E, Honma R, Imai JI, Azuma S, Kanno T, Mori S, Yoshie O, Nishio J, Iwasaki H, Yoshida K, Gohda J, Inoue JI, Watanabe S, Semba K. A tetraspanin-family protein, T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia-associated antigen 1, is induced by the Ewing's sarcoma-Wilms' tumor 1 fusion protein of desmoplastic small round-cell tumor. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2004; 163:2165-72. [PMID: 14633590 PMCID: PMC1892365 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9440(10)63573-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Recurrent chromosomal translocations in neoplasms often generate hybrid genes that play critical roles in tumorigenesis. Desmoplastic small round-cell tumor (DSRCT) is an aggressive malignancy associated with the chromosomal translocation t(11;22)(p13;q12). This translocation generates a chimeric transcription factor, EWS-WT1, which consists of the transcriptional activation domain of the Ewing's sarcoma (EWS) protein and the DNA binding domain of the Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1) protein. One of the splice variants, EWS-WT1(-KTS) lacks three amino acid residues (Lys-Thr-Ser) in the DNA binding domain and transforms NIH3T3 cells. Therefore, it is likely that aberrant gene expression caused by EWS-WT1(-KTS) is involved in the malignant phenotype of DSRCT. Microarray analysis of 9600 human genes revealed that a gene encoding a tetraspanin-family protein, T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia-associated antigen 1 (TALLA-1), was induced in EWS-WT1(-KTS)-expressing cell clones. This induction was EWS-WT1(-KTS)-specific, and more importantly, TALLA-1 protein was expressed in the three independent cases of DSRCT. Tetraspanin-family genes encode transmembrane proteins that regulate various cell processes such as cell adhesion, migration and metastasis. Our findings provide a novel insight into the malignant phenotype of DSRCT, suggesting that TALLA-1 is a useful marker for diagnosis and a potential target for the therapy of DSRCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emi Ito
- Division of Cancer Genomics, Department of Cancer Biology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo
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Reynolds PA, Smolen GA, Palmer RE, Sgroi D, Yajnik V, Gerald WL, Haber DA. Identification of a DNA-binding site and transcriptional target for the EWS-WT1(+KTS) oncoprotein. Genes Dev 2003; 17:2094-107. [PMID: 12923058 PMCID: PMC196452 DOI: 10.1101/gad.1110703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is defined by a chimeric transcription factor, resulting from fusion of the N-terminal domain of the Ewing's sarcoma gene EWS to the three C-terminal zinc fingers of the Wilms' tumor suppressor WT1. Although DNA-binding sites have been defined for the uninterrupted WT1 zinc finger domains, the most prevalent isoforms of both WT1 and EWS-WT1 have an insertion of three amino acids [lysine, threonine, and serine (KTS)], which abrogates binding to known consensus sequences and transactivation of known target genes. Here, we used cDNA subtractive hybridization to identify an endogenous gene, LRRC15, which is specifically up-regulated after inducible expression of EWS-WT1(+KTS) in cancer cell lines, and is expressed within primary DSRCT cells. The chimeric protein binds in vitro and in vivo to a specific element upstream of LRRC15, leading to dramatic transcriptional activation. Mutagenesis studies define the optimal binding site of the (+KTS) isoform of EWS-WT1 as 5'-GGAGG(A/G)-3'. LRRC15 encodes a leucine-rich transmembrane protein, present at the leading edge of migrating cells, the expression of which in normal tissues is restricted to the invasive cytotrophoblast layer of the placenta; small interfering (siRNA)-mediated suppression of LRRC15 expression in breast cancer cells leads to abrogation of invasiveness in vitro. Together, these observations define the consequence of (KTS) insertion within WT1-derived zinc fingers, and identify a novel EWS-WT1 transcriptional target implicated in tumor invasiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Reynolds
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
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26
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Werner H, Roberts CT. The IGFI receptor gene: a molecular target for disrupted transcription factors. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2003; 36:113-20. [PMID: 12508239 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.10157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological actions of the insulin-like growth factors, IGFI and IGFII, are mediated by their activation of the IGFI receptor (IGFIR), a transmembrane heterotetramer linked to the RAS-RAF-MAPK and PI3K-PKB/AKT signal transduction cascades. The IGFIR displays potent mitogenic, antiapoptotic, and transforming activities, and is a prerequisite for oncogenic transformation. A number of transcription factors have been identified that control the expression of this gene and therefore determine, to a significant extent, the proliferative status of the cell. The purpose of this review is to summarize data showing that, under normal physiological conditions, expression of the IGFIR is under inhibitory control by a family of negative growth regulators or tumor suppressors. Cells with a reduced number of cell-surface receptors are unable to progress through the cell cycle and remain in a postmitotic state. Loss-of-function mutation of tumor suppressors in certain cancers results in transcriptional derepression of the IGFIR gene, with ensuing increases in the levels of IGFIR and increased proliferative capacity. Understanding the molecular mechanisms responsible for transcriptional regulation of the IGFIR gene will prove important in designing novel therapies aimed at targeting the IGF axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haim Werner
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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Palmer RE, Lee SB, Wong JC, Reynolds PA, Zhang H, Truong V, Oliner JD, Gerald WL, Haber DA. Induction of BAIAP3 by the EWS-WT1 chimeric fusion implicates regulated exocytosis in tumorigenesis. Cancer Cell 2002; 2:497-505. [PMID: 12498718 DOI: 10.1016/s1535-6108(02)00205-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is defined genetically by the chimeric fusion of the Ewing's sarcoma and Wilms' tumor genes, generating a novel transcription factor, EWS-WT1. By using cells with inducible EWS-WT1 to screen high-density microarrays, we identified BAIAP3 as a transcriptional target of the chimera. The BAIAP3 promoter is specifically bound in vivo by the (-KTS) isoform of EWS-WT1, consistent with its activation in reporter assays. BAIAP3 encodes a protein implicated in regulated exocytosis, which is colocalized with a secreted growth factor within cytoplasmic organelles. Ectopic expression of BAIAP3 in tumor cells dramatically enhances growth in low serum and colony formation in soft agar. BAIAP3 therefore encodes a transcriptional target of an oncogenic fusion protein that implicates the regulated exocytotic pathway in cancer cell proliferation.
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MESH Headings
- Angiogenesis Inhibitors
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- Blotting, Northern
- Carcinoma, Small Cell/genetics
- Carcinoma, Small Cell/metabolism
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Exocytosis/physiology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Genes, Wilms Tumor
- Humans
- In Situ Hybridization
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Mosaicism
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Osteosarcoma/genetics
- Osteosarcoma/metabolism
- Promoter Regions, Genetic
- Proteins/genetics
- Proteins/metabolism
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/genetics
- Transcription, Genetic
- Tumor Cells, Cultured/ultrastructure
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Palmer
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
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