1
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Ibarra J, Hershenhouse T, Almassalha L, Walterhouse D, Backman V, MacQuarrie KL. Differentiation-dependent chromosomal organization changes in normal myogenic cells are absent in rhabdomyosarcoma cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1293891. [PMID: 38020905 PMCID: PMC10662331 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1293891] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Myogenesis, the progression of proliferating skeletal myoblasts to terminally differentiated myotubes, regulates thousands of target genes. Uninterrupted linear arrays of such genes are differentially associated with specific chromosomes, suggesting chromosome specific regulatory roles in myogenesis. Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a tumor of skeletal muscle, shares common features with normal muscle cells. We hypothesized that RMS and myogenic cells possess differences in chromosomal organization related to myogenic gene arrangement. We compared the organizational characteristics of chromosomes 2 and 18, chosen for their difference in myogenic gene arrangement, in cultured RMS cell lines and normal myoblasts and myotubes. We found chromosome-specific differences in organization during normal myogenesis, with increased area occupied and a shift in peripheral localization specifically for chromosome 2. Most strikingly, we found a differentiation-dependent difference in positioning of chromosome 2 relative to the nuclear axis, with preferential positioning along the major nuclear axis present only in myotubes. RMS cells demonstrated no preference for such axial positioning, but induced differentiation through transfection of the pro-myogenic miRNA miR-206 resulted in an increase of major axial positioning of chromosome 2. Our findings identify both a differentiation-dependent, chromosome-specific change in organization in normal myogenesis, and highlight the role of chromosomal spatial organization in myogenic differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Ibarra
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Tyler Hershenhouse
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Luay Almassalha
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - David Walterhouse
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Vadim Backman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Kyle L. MacQuarrie
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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2
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Hüttner SS, Henze H, Elster D, Koch P, Anderer U, von Eyss B, von Maltzahn J. A dysfunctional miR-1-TRPS1-MYOG axis drives ERMS by suppressing terminal myogenic differentiation. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2612-2632. [PMID: 37452493 PMCID: PMC10492030 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.07.003] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common pediatric soft tissue tumor, comprising two major subtypes: the PAX3/7-FOXO1 fusion-negative embryonal and the PAX3/7-FOXO1 fusion-positive alveolar subtype. Here, we demonstrate that the expression levels of the transcriptional repressor TRPS1 are specifically enhanced in the embryonal subtype, resulting in impaired terminal myogenic differentiation and tumor growth. During normal myogenesis, expression levels of TRPS1 have to decrease to allow myogenic progression, as demonstrated by overexpression of TRPS1 in myoblasts impairing myotube formation. Consequentially, myogenic differentiation in embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma in vitro as well as in vivo can be achieved by reducing TRPS1 levels. Furthermore, we show that TRPS1 levels in RD cells, the bona fide model cell line for embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, are regulated by miR-1 and that TRPS1 and MYOD1 share common genomic binding sites. The myogenin (MYOG) promoter is one of the critical targets of TRPS1 and MYOD1; we demonstrate that TRPS1 restricts MYOG expression and thereby inhibits terminal myogenic differentiation. Therefore, reduction of TRPS1 levels in embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma might be a therapeutic approach to drive embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma cells into myogenic differentiation, thereby generating postmitotic myotubes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sören S Hüttner
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute, Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Henriette Henze
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute, Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Dana Elster
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute, Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Philipp Koch
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute, Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Ursula Anderer
- Department of Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Universitätsplatz 1, 01968 Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Björn von Eyss
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute, Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Julia von Maltzahn
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute, Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany; Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Universitätsplatz 1, 01968 Senftenberg, Germany.
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3
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Ballester Roig MN, Roy PG, Hannou L, Delignat-Lavaud B, Sully Guerrier TA, Bélanger-Nelson E, Dufort-Gervais J, Mongrain V. Transcriptional regulation of the mouse EphA4, Ephrin-B2 and Ephrin-A3 genes by the circadian clock machinery. Chronobiol Int 2023; 40:983-1003. [PMID: 37551686 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2023.2237580] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Circadian rhythms originate from molecular feedback loops. In mammals, the transcription factors CLOCK and BMAL1 act on regulatory elements (i.e. E-boxes) to shape biological functions in a rhythmic manner. The EPHA4 receptor and its ligands Ephrins (EFN) are cell adhesion molecules regulating neurotransmission and neuronal morphology. Previous studies showed the presence of E-boxes in the genes of EphA4 and specific Ephrins, and that EphA4 knockout mice have an altered circadian rhythm of locomotor activity. We thus hypothesized that the core clock machinery regulates the gene expression of EphA4, EfnB2 and EfnA3. CLOCK and BMAL1 (or NPAS2 and BMAL2) were found to have transcriptional activity on distal and proximal regions of EphA4, EfnB2 and EfnA3 putative promoters. A constitutively active form of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β; a negative regulator of CLOCK and BMAL1) blocked the transcriptional induction. Mutating the E-boxes of EphA4 distal promoter sequence reduced transcriptional induction. EPHA4 and EFNB2 protein levels did not show circadian variations in the mouse suprachiasmatic nucleus or prefrontal cortex. The findings uncover that core circadian transcription factors can regulate the gene expression of elements of the Eph/Ephrin system, which might contribute to circadian rhythmicity in biological processes in the brain or peripheral tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Neus Ballester Roig
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Recherche CIUSSS-NIM, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pierre-Gabriel Roy
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Recherche CIUSSS-NIM, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Valérie Mongrain
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Recherche CIUSSS-NIM, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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4
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Ibarra J, Hershenhouse T, Almassalha L, MacQuarrie KL. Differentiation-dependent chromosomal organization changes in normal myogenic cells are absent in rhabdomyosarcoma cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.11.540394. [PMID: 37214969 PMCID: PMC10197681 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.11.540394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Myogenesis, the progression of proliferating skeletal myoblasts to terminally differentiated myotubes, regulates thousands of target genes. Uninterrupted linear arrays of such genes are differentially associated with specific chromosomes, suggesting chromosome specific regulatory roles in myogenesis. Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a tumor of skeletal muscle, shares common features with normal muscle cells. We hypothesized that RMS and myogenic cells possess differences in chromosomal organization related to myogenic gene arrangement. We compared the organizational characteristics of chromosomes 2 and 18, chosen for their difference in myogenic gene arrangement, in cultured RMS cell lines and normal myoblasts and myotubes. We found chromosome-specific differences in organization during normal myogenesis, with increased area occupied and a shift in peripheral localization specifically for chromosome 2. Most strikingly, we found a differentiation-dependent difference in positioning of chromosome 2 relative to the nuclear axis, with preferential positioning along the major nuclear axis present only in myotubes. RMS cells demonstrated no preference for such axial positioning, but induced differentiation through transfection of the pro-myogenic miRNA miR-206 resulted in an increase of major axial positioning of chromosome 2. Our findings identify both a differentiation-dependent, chromosome-specific change in organization in normal myogenesis, and highlight the role of chromosomal spatial organization in myogenic differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Ibarra
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, IL
| | - Tyler Hershenhouse
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, IL
| | - Luay Almassalha
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Kyle L MacQuarrie
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, IL
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5
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Zhang S, Wang J, Liu Q, McDonald WH, Bomber ML, Layden HM, Ellis J, Borinstein SC, Hiebert SW, Stengel KR. PAX3-FOXO1 coordinates enhancer architecture, eRNA transcription, and RNA polymerase pause release at select gene targets. Mol Cell 2022; 82:4428-4442.e7. [PMID: 36395771 PMCID: PMC9731406 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Transcriptional control is a highly dynamic process that changes rapidly in response to various cellular and extracellular cues, making it difficult to define the mechanism of transcription factor function using slow genetic methods. We used a chemical-genetic approach to rapidly degrade a canonical transcriptional activator, PAX3-FOXO1, to define the mechanism by which it regulates gene expression programs. By coupling rapid protein degradation with the analysis of nascent transcription over short time courses and integrating CUT&RUN, ATAC-seq, and eRNA analysis with deep proteomic analysis, we defined PAX3-FOXO1 function at a small network of direct transcriptional targets. PAX3-FOXO1 degradation impaired RNA polymerase pause release and transcription elongation at most regulated gene targets. Moreover, the activity of PAX3-FOXO1 at enhancers controlling this core network was surprisingly selective, affecting single elements in super-enhancers. This combinatorial analysis indicated that PAX3-FOXO1 was continuously required to maintain chromatin accessibility and enhancer architecture at regulated enhancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37203, USA; Center for Quantitative Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37203, USA; Center for Quantitative Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - W Hayes McDonald
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Monica L Bomber
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Hillary M Layden
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Jacob Ellis
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Scott C Borinstein
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37203, USA; Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN 37027, USA
| | - Scott W Hiebert
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN 37027, USA.
| | - Kristy R Stengel
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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6
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Jiang W, Tian X, Wang D, Bokesch HR, Thomas CL, Woldemichael GM, Gryder BE, Wei JS, Song YK, Chou HC, Khan J, O'Keefe BR, Gustafson KR. Dentithecamides A-H, Diacylated Zoanthoxanthin Derivatives with PAX3-FOXO1 Inhibitory Activity from the Hydroid Dentitheca habereri. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2022; 85:1419-1427. [PMID: 35465663 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.2c00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Chemical investigation of the marine hydroid Dentitheca habereri led to the identification of eight new diacylated zoanthoxanthin alkaloids, named dentithecamides A-H (1-8), along with three previously reported analogues, zoamides B-D (9-11). The structures of compounds 1-11 were elucidated by spectroscopic and spectrometric analyses, including IR, HRESIMS, and NMR experiments, and by comparison with literature data. Compounds 1-11 are the first zoanthoxanthin alkaloids to be reported from a hydroid. Dentithecamides A (1) and B (2) along with zoamides B-D (9-11), which all share a conformationally mobile cycloheptadiene core, inhibited PAX3-FOXO1 regulated transcriptional activity and thus provided a structural framework for the potential development of more potent PAX3-FOXO1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Jiang
- Marine Science & Technology Institute, College of Environmental Science & Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225127, People's Republic of China
- Molecular Targets Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
| | - Xiangrong Tian
- Molecular Targets Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
- College of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongdong Wang
- Molecular Targets Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
| | - Heidi R Bokesch
- Molecular Targets Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
- Basic Science Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
| | - Cheryl L Thomas
- Molecular Targets Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
| | - Girma M Woldemichael
- Molecular Targets Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
- Basic Science Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
| | - Berkley E Gryder
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Jun S Wei
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Young K Song
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Hsien-Chao Chou
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Javed Khan
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Barry R O'Keefe
- Molecular Targets Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
- Natural Products Branch, Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21701-1201, United States
| | - Kirk R Gustafson
- Molecular Targets Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, United States
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7
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Zhou C, Sun Y, Gong Z, Li J, Zhao X, Yang Q, Yu H, Ye J, Liang J, Jiang L, Zhang D, Shen Z, Zheng S. FAT1 and MSH2 Are Predictive Prognostic Markers for Chinese Osteosarcoma Patients Following Chemotherapeutic Treatment. J Bone Miner Res 2022; 37:885-895. [PMID: 35279875 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is characterized by diverse genetic mutations, including single-nucleotide variants (SNVs), which can complicate clinical outcomes of the treatment. This study identified key mutations or polymorphisms in genes that correlate with osteosarcoma prognoses. A total of 110 patients with osteosarcoma were assigned to "good" or "poor" cohorts depending on their 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) after surgery and chemotherapeutic treatment. We performed next-generation sequencing analysis of tumor tissues for prognosis-associated SNVs in 315 tumorigenesis-related genes, followed by modeling of clinical outcomes for these patients using random forest classification via a support vector machine (SVM). Data from the Chinese Millionome Database were used to compare SNV frequency in osteosarcoma patients and healthy people. SVM screening identified 17 nonsynonymous SNVs located in 15 genes, of which rs17224367 and rs3733406 (located in MSH2 and FAT1, respectively) were strongly correlated with osteosarcoma prognosis. These results were verified in a 26-patient validation cohort, confirming that these SNVs could be used to predict prognosis. These results demonstrated that two SNVs located in MSH2 and FAT1 are associated with prognosis of osteosarcoma patients. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenliang Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Sun
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziying Gong
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Companion Diagnostics, Jiaxing Yunying Medical Inspection Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China.,Department of R&D, Zhejiang Yunying Medical Technology Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China
| | - Jieyi Li
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Companion Diagnostics, Jiaxing Yunying Medical Inspection Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China.,Department of R&D, Zhejiang Yunying Medical Technology Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China
| | - Xiaokai Zhao
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Companion Diagnostics, Jiaxing Yunying Medical Inspection Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China.,Department of R&D, Zhejiang Yunying Medical Technology Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China
| | - Quanjun Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongjie Yu
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Companion Diagnostics, Jiaxing Yunying Medical Inspection Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China.,Department of R&D, Zhejiang Yunying Medical Technology Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China
| | - Jianwei Ye
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Companion Diagnostics, Jiaxing Yunying Medical Inspection Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China.,Department of R&D, Zhejiang Yunying Medical Technology Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China
| | - Jinrong Liang
- Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, China
| | - Linlan Jiang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Daoyun Zhang
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Companion Diagnostics, Jiaxing Yunying Medical Inspection Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China.,Department of R&D, Zhejiang Yunying Medical Technology Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China
| | - Zan Shen
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuier Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
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8
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Tyler R, Dilworth MP, James J, Blakeway D, Stockton JD, Morton DG, Taniere P, Gourevitch D, Desai A, Beggs AD. The molecular landscape of well differentiated retroperitoneal liposarcoma. J Pathol 2021; 255:132-140. [PMID: 34156092 DOI: 10.1002/path.5749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Well differentiated liposarcoma (WD-LPS) is a relatively rare tumour, with fewer than 50 cases occurring per year in the UK. These tumours are both chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-resistant and present a significant treatment challenge requiring radical surgery. Little is known of the molecular landscape of these tumours and no current targets for molecular therapy exist. We aimed to carry out a comprehensive molecular characterisation of WD-LPS via whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, and methylation array analysis. A recurrent mutation within exon 1 of FOXD4L3 was observed (chr9:70,918,189A>T; c.322A>T; p.Lys108Ter). Recurrent mutations were also observed in Wnt signalling, immunity, DNA repair, and hypoxia-associated genes. Recurrent amplification of HGMA2 was observed, although this was in fact part of a general amplification of the region around this gene. Recurrent gene fusions in HGMA2, SDHA, TSPAN31, and MDM2 were also observed as well as consistent rearrangements between chromosome 6 and chromosome 12. Our study has demonstrated a recurrent mutation within FOXD4L3, which shows evidence of interaction with the PAX pathway to promote tumourigenesis. © 2021 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Tyler
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mark P Dilworth
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jonathan James
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Daniel Blakeway
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Joanne D Stockton
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Dion G Morton
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Phillipe Taniere
- Midland Abdominal Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Unit (MARSU), University Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - David Gourevitch
- Midland Abdominal Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Unit (MARSU), University Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Anant Desai
- Midland Abdominal Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Unit (MARSU), University Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andrew D Beggs
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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9
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Nguyen TH, Barr FG. Therapeutic Approaches Targeting PAX3-FOXO1 and Its Regulatory and Transcriptional Pathways in Rhabdomyosarcoma. Molecules 2018; 23:E2798. [PMID: 30373318 PMCID: PMC6278278 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23112798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a family of soft tissue cancers that are related to the skeletal muscle lineage and predominantly occur in children and young adults. A specific chromosomal translocation t(2;13)(q35;q14) that gives rise to the chimeric oncogenic transcription factor PAX3-FOXO1 has been identified as a hallmark of the aggressive alveolar subtype of RMS. PAX3-FOXO1 cooperates with additional molecular changes to promote oncogenic transformation and tumorigenesis in various human and murine models. Its expression is generally restricted to RMS tumor cells, thus providing a very specific target for therapeutic approaches for these RMS tumors. In this article, we review the recent understanding of PAX3-FOXO1 as a transcription factor in the pathogenesis of this cancer and discuss recent developments to target this oncoprotein for treatment of RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Frederic G. Barr
- Laboratory of Pathology, National Cancer Institute, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
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10
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Wu Y, Wan X, Ji F, Song Z, Fang X. Serum miR-658 induces metastasis of gastric cancer by activating PAX3-MET pathway: A population-based study. Cancer Biomark 2018; 22:111-118. [PMID: 29630524 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-171045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This article has been retracted, and the online PDF replaced with this retraction notice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyu Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wan
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Fujian Ji
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zheyu Song
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xuedong Fang
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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11
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Soderstrom K, Soliman E, Van Dross R. Cannabinoids Modulate Neuronal Activity and Cancer by CB1 and CB2 Receptor-Independent Mechanisms. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:720. [PMID: 29066974 PMCID: PMC5641363 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids include the active constituents of Cannabis or are molecules that mimic the structure and/or function of these Cannabis-derived molecules. Cannabinoids produce many of their cellular and organ system effects by interacting with the well-characterized CB1 and CB2 receptors. However, it has become clear that not all effects of cannabinoid drugs are attributable to their interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors. Evidence now demonstrates that cannabinoid agents produce effects by modulating activity of the entire array of cellular macromolecules targeted by other drug classes, including: other receptor types; ion channels; transporters; enzymes, and protein- and non-protein cellular structures. This review summarizes evidence for these interactions in the CNS and in cancer, and is organized according to the cellular targets involved. The CNS represents a well-studied area and cancer is emerging in terms of understanding mechanisms by which cannabinoids modulate their activity. Considering the CNS and cancer together allow identification of non-cannabinoid receptor targets that are shared and divergent in both systems. This comparative approach allows the identified targets to be compared and contrasted, suggesting potential new areas of investigation. It also provides insight into the diverse sources of efficacy employed by this interesting class of drugs. Obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the diverse mechanisms of cannabinoid action may lead to the design and development of therapeutic agents with greater efficacy and specificity for their cellular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Soderstrom
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Eman Soliman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Rukiyah Van Dross
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
- Center for Health Disparities, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
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12
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Gryder BE, Yohe ME, Chou HC, Zhang X, Marques J, Wachtel M, Schaefer B, Sen N, Song Y, Gualtieri A, Pomella S, Rota R, Cleveland A, Wen X, Sindiri S, Wei JS, Barr FG, Das S, Andresson T, Guha R, Lal-Nag M, Ferrer M, Shern JF, Zhao K, Thomas CJ, Khan J. PAX3-FOXO1 Establishes Myogenic Super Enhancers and Confers BET Bromodomain Vulnerability. Cancer Discov 2017; 7:884-899. [PMID: 28446439 PMCID: PMC7802885 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-16-1297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma is a life-threatening myogenic cancer of children and adolescent young adults, driven primarily by the chimeric transcription factor PAX3-FOXO1. The mechanisms by which PAX3-FOXO1 dysregulates chromatin are unknown. We find PAX3-FOXO1 reprograms the cis-regulatory landscape by inducing de novo super enhancers. PAX3-FOXO1 uses super enhancers to set up autoregulatory loops in collaboration with the master transcription factors MYOG, MYOD, and MYCN. This myogenic super enhancer circuitry is consistent across cell lines and primary tumors. Cells harboring the fusion gene are selectively sensitive to small-molecule inhibition of protein targets induced by, or bound to, PAX3-FOXO1-occupied super enhancers. Furthermore, PAX3-FOXO1 recruits and requires the BET bromodomain protein BRD4 to function at super enhancers, resulting in a complete dependence on BRD4 and a significant susceptibility to BRD inhibition. These results yield insights into the epigenetic functions of PAX3-FOXO1 and reveal a specific vulnerability that can be exploited for precision therapy.Significance: PAX3-FOXO1 drives pediatric fusion-positive rhabdomyosarcoma, and its chromatin-level functions are critical to understanding its oncogenic activity. We find that PAX3-FOXO1 establishes a myoblastic super enhancer landscape and creates a profound subtype-unique dependence on BET bromodomains, the inhibition of which ablates PAX3-FOXO1 function, providing a mechanistic rationale for exploring BET inhibitors for patients bearing PAX-fusion rhabdomyosarcoma. Cancer Discov; 7(8); 884-99. ©2017 AACR.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 783.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marielle E Yohe
- Genetics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Xiaohu Zhang
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Rockville, Maryland
| | | | | | | | | | - Young Song
- Genetics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alberto Gualtieri
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù Research Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Pomella
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù Research Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Rota
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù Research Institute, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Xinyu Wen
- Genetics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Jun S Wei
- Genetics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Sudipto Das
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Analytical Technologies, Advanced Technologies Center, NCI, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Thorkell Andresson
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Analytical Technologies, Advanced Technologies Center, NCI, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Rajarshi Guha
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Madhu Lal-Nag
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Marc Ferrer
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Jack F Shern
- Genetics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Keji Zhao
- Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Craig J Thomas
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Javed Khan
- Genetics Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland.
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13
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Loupe JM, Miller PJ, Bonner BP, Maggi EC, Vijayaraghavan J, Crabtree JS, Taylor CM, Zabaleta J, Hollenbach AD. Comparative transcriptomic analysis reveals the oncogenic fusion protein PAX3-FOXO1 globally alters mRNA and miRNA to enhance myoblast invasion. Oncogenesis 2016; 5:e246. [PMID: 27454080 PMCID: PMC4972903 DOI: 10.1038/oncsis.2016.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma, one of the most common childhood sarcomas, is comprised of two main subtypes, embryonal and alveolar (ARMS). ARMS, the more aggressive subtype, is primarily characterized by the t(2;13)(p35;p14) chromosomal translocation, which fuses two transcription factors, PAX3 and FOXO1 to generate the oncogenic fusion protein PAX3-FOXO1. Patients with PAX3-FOXO1-postitive tumors have a poor prognosis, in part due to the enhanced local invasive capacity of these cells, which leads to the increased metastatic potential for this tumor. Despite this knowledge, little is known about the role that the oncogenic fusion protein has in this increased invasive potential. In this report we use large-scale comparative transcriptomic analyses in physiologically relevant primary myoblasts to demonstrate that the presence of PAX3-FOXO1 is sufficient to alter the expression of 70 mRNA and 27 miRNA in a manner predicted to promote cellular invasion. In contrast the expression of PAX3 alters 60 mRNA and 23 miRNA in a manner predicted to inhibit invasion. We demonstrate that these alterations in mRNA and miRNA translate into changes in the invasive potential of primary myoblasts with PAX3-FOXO1 increasing invasion nearly 2-fold while PAX3 decreases invasion nearly 4-fold. Taken together, these results allow us to build off of previous reports and develop a more expansive molecular model by which the presence of PAX3-FOXO1 alters global gene regulatory networks to enhance the local invasiveness of cells. Further, the global nature of our observed changes highlights the fact that instead of focusing on a single-gene target, we must develop multi-faceted treatment regimens targeting multiple genes of a single oncogenic phenotype or multiple genes that target different oncogenic phenotypes for tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Loupe
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - P J Miller
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - B P Bonner
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - E C Maggi
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - J Vijayaraghavan
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - J S Crabtree
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - C M Taylor
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - J Zabaleta
- Department of Pediatrics and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - A D Hollenbach
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
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14
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Regulation of EBV LMP1-triggered EphA4 downregulation in EBV-associated B lymphoma and its impact on patients' survival. Blood 2016; 128:1578-89. [PMID: 27338098 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2016-02-702530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), an oncogenic human virus, is associated with several lymphoproliferative disorders, including Burkitt lymphoma, Hodgkin disease, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). In vitro, EBV transforms primary B cells into lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs). Recently, several studies have shown that receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) play important roles in EBV-associated neoplasia. However, details of the involvement of RTKs in EBV-regulated B-cell neoplasia and malignancies remain largely unclear. Here, we found that erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptor A4 (EphA4), which belongs to the largest RTK Eph family, was downregulated in primary B cells post-EBV infection at the transcriptional and translational levels. Overexpression and knockdown experiments confirmed that EBV-encoded latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) was responsible for this EphA4 suppression. Mechanistically, LMP1 triggered the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway and promoted Sp1 to suppress EphA4 promoter activity. Functionally, overexpression of EphA4 prevented LCLs from proliferation. Pathologically, the expression of EphA4 was detected in EBV(-) tonsils but not in EBV(+) PTLD. In addition, an inverse correlation of EphA4 expression and EBV presence was verified by immunochemical staining of EBV(+) and EBV(-) DLBCL, suggesting EBV infection was associated with reduced EphA4 expression. Analysis of a public data set showed that lower EphA4 expression was correlated with a poor survival rate of DLBCL patients. Our findings provide a novel mechanism by which EphA4 can be regulated by an oncogenic LMP1 protein and explore its possible function in B cells. The results provide new insights into the role of EphA4 in EBV(+) PTLD and DLBCL.
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15
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Hingorani P, Missiaglia E, Shipley J, Anderson JR, Triche TJ, Delorenzi M, Gastier-Foster J, Wing M, Hawkins DS, Skapek SX. Clinical Application of Prognostic Gene Expression Signature in Fusion Gene-Negative Rhabdomyosarcoma: A Report from the Children's Oncology Group. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 21:4733-9. [PMID: 26473193 PMCID: PMC4610152 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-3326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) has two common histologic subtypes: embryonal (ERMS) and alveolar (ARMS). PAX-FOXO1 fusion gene status is a more reliable prognostic marker than alveolar histology, whereas fusion gene-negative (FN) ARMS patients are clinically similar to ERMS patients. A five-gene expression signature (MG5) previously identified two diverse risk groups within the fusion gene-negative RMS (FN-RMS) patients, but this has not been independently validated. The goal of this study was to test whether expression of the MG5 metagene, measured using a technical platform that can be applied to routine pathology material, would correlate with outcome in a new cohort of patients with FN-RMS. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Cases were taken from the Children's Oncology Group (COG) D9803 study of children with intermediate-risk RMS, and gene expression profiling for the MG5 genes was performed using the nCounter assay. The MG5 score was correlated with clinical and pathologic characteristics as well as overall and event-free survival. RESULTS MG5 standardized score showed no significant association with any of the available clinicopathologic variables. The MG5 signature score showed a significant correlation with overall (N = 57; HR, 7.3; 95% CI, 1.9-27.0; P = 0.003) and failure-free survival (N = 57; HR, 6.1; 95% CI, 1.9-19.7; P = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS This represents the first, validated molecular prognostic signature for children with FN-RMS who otherwise have intermediate-risk disease. The capacity to measure the expression of a small number of genes in routine pathology material and apply a simple mathematical formula to calculate the MG5 metagene score provides a clear path toward better risk stratification in future prospective clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Hingorani
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, Arizona.
| | | | - Janet Shipley
- Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - James R Anderson
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Timothy J Triche
- Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mauro Delorenzi
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland. Ludwig Center for Cancer Research, Lausanne, Switzerland. Oncology Department, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Michele Wing
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Douglas S Hawkins
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Stephen X Skapek
- Pauline Allen Gill Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's Medical Center, Dallas, Texas. Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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16
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Lagutina IV, Valentine V, Picchione F, Harwood F, Valentine MB, Villarejo-Balcells B, Carvajal JJ, Grosveld GC. Modeling of the human alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma Pax3-Foxo1 chromosome translocation in mouse myoblasts using CRISPR-Cas9 nuclease. PLoS Genet 2015; 11:e1004951. [PMID: 25659124 PMCID: PMC4319822 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Many recurrent chromosome translocations in cancer result in the generation of fusion genes that are directly implicated in the tumorigenic process. Precise modeling of the effects of cancer fusion genes in mice has been inaccurate, as constructs of fusion genes often completely or partially lack the correct regulatory sequences. The reciprocal t(2;13)(q36.1;q14.1) in human alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (A-RMS) creates a pathognomonic PAX3-FOXO1 fusion gene. In vivo mimicking of this translocation in mice is complicated by the fact that Pax3 and Foxo1 are in opposite orientation on their respective chromosomes, precluding formation of a functional Pax3-Foxo1 fusion via a simple translocation. To circumvent this problem, we irreversibly inverted the orientation of a 4.9 Mb syntenic fragment on chromosome 3, encompassing Foxo1, by using Cre-mediated recombination of two pairs of unrelated oppositely oriented LoxP sites situated at the borders of the syntenic region. We tested if spatial proximity of the Pax3 and Foxo1 loci in myoblasts of mice homozygous for the inversion facilitated Pax3-Foxo1 fusion gene formation upon induction of targeted CRISPR-Cas9 nuclease-induced DNA double strand breaks in Pax3 and Foxo1. Fluorescent in situ hybridization indicated that fore limb myoblasts show a higher frequency of Pax3/Foxo1 co-localization than hind limb myoblasts. Indeed, more fusion genes were generated in fore limb myoblasts via a reciprocal t(1;3), which expressed correctly spliced Pax3-Foxo1 mRNA encoding Pax3-Foxo1 fusion protein. We conclude that locus proximity facilitates chromosome translocation upon induction of DNA double strand breaks. Given that the Pax3-Foxo1 fusion gene will contain all the regulatory sequences necessary for precise regulation of its expression, we propose that CRISPR-Cas9 provides a novel means to faithfully model human diseases caused by chromosome translocation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina V. Lagutina
- Departments of Genetics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Virginia Valentine
- Tumor Cell Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Fabrizio Picchione
- Departments of Genetics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Frank Harwood
- Departments of Genetics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Marcus B. Valentine
- Tumor Cell Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | | | - Jaime J. Carvajal
- Division of Cancer Biology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo (CSIC/UPO/JA), Sevilla, Spain
| | - Gerard C. Grosveld
- Departments of Genetics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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17
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Goumy C, Gay-Bellile M, Eymard-Pierre E, Kemeny S, Gouas L, Déchelotte P, Gallot D, Véronèse L, Tchirkov A, Pebrel-Richard C, Vago P. De novo 2q36.1q36.3 interstitial deletion involving the PAX3 and EPHA4 genes in a fetus with spina bifida and cleft palate. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 100:507-11. [PMID: 24753315 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.23246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2013] [Revised: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interstitial 2q36 deletion is a rare event. Only two previously published cases of 2q36 deletions were characterized using array-CGH. This is the first case diagnosed prenatally. METHODS We report on the prenatal diagnosis of a 2q36.1q36.3 interstitial deletion in a fetus with facial dysmorphism, spina bifida, and cleft palate. RESULTS Array-CGH analysis revealed a 5.6 Mb interstitial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 2q36.1q36.3, including the PAX3 and EPHA4 genes. CONCLUSION The present study reinforces the hypothesis that PAX3 haploinsufficiency may be associated with neural tube defects in humans and suggests that the EPHA4 gene might be implicated during palate development. This report also illustrates the added value of array-CGH to detect cryptic chromosomal imbalances in malformed fetuses and to improve genetic counseling prenatally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Goumy
- Cytogénétique Médicale, Université Clermont1, UFR Médecine, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Estaing, France
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18
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Jothi M, Mal M, Keller C, Mal AK. Small molecule inhibition of PAX3-FOXO1 through AKT activation suppresses malignant phenotypes of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. Mol Cancer Ther 2013; 12:2663-74. [PMID: 24107448 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-13-0277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma comprises a rare highly malignant tumor presumed to be associated with skeletal muscle lineage in children. The hallmark of the majority of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma is a chromosomal translocation that generates the PAX3-FOXO1 fusion protein, which is an oncogenic transcription factor responsible for the development of the malignant phenotype of this tumor. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cells are dependent on the oncogenic activity of PAX3-FOXO1, and its expression status in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma tumors correlates with worst patient outcome, suggesting that blocking this activity of PAX3-FOXO1 may be an attractive therapeutic strategy against this fusion-positive disease. In this study, we screened small molecule chemical libraries for inhibitors of PAX3-FOXO1 transcriptional activity using a cell-based readout system. We identified the Sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPases (SERCA) inhibitor thapsigargin as an effective inhibitor of PAX3-FOXO1. Subsequent experiments in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cells showed that activation of AKT by thapsigargin inhibited PAX3-FOXO1 activity via phosphorylation. Moreover, this AKT activation appears to be associated with the effects of thapsigargin on intracellular calcium levels. Furthermore, thapsigargin inhibited the binding of PAX3-FOXO1 to target genes and subsequently promoted its proteasomal degradation. In addition, thapsigargin treatment decreases the growth and invasive capacity of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cells while inducing apoptosis in vitro. Finally, thapsigargin can suppress the growth of an alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma xenograft tumor in vivo. These data reveal that thapsigargin-induced activation of AKT is an effective mechanism to inhibit PAX3-FOXO1 and a potential agent for targeted therapy against alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathivanan Jothi
- Corresponding Author: Asoke K. Mal, Department of Cell Stress Biology, BLSC-L3-319 Roswell Park Cancer Institute Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY 14263.
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19
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Hu Q, Yuan Y, Wang C. Structural and functional studies of FKHR-PAX3, a reciprocal fusion gene of the t(2;13) chromosomal translocation in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. PLoS One 2013; 8:e68065. [PMID: 23799156 PMCID: PMC3683129 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) is an aggressive pediatric cancer of skeletal muscle. More than 70% of ARMS tumors carry balanced t(2;13) chromosomal translocation that leads to the production of two novel fusion genes, PAX3-FKHR and FKHR-PAX3. While the PAX3-FKHR gene has been intensely studied, the reciprocal FKHR-PAX3 gene has rarely been described. We report here the cloning and functional characterization of the FKHR-PAX3 gene as the first step towards a better understanding of its potential impact on ARMS biology. From RH30 ARMS cells, we detected and isolated three versions of FKHR-PAX3 cDNAs whose C-terminal sequences corresponded to PAX3c, PAX3d, and PAX3e isoforms. Unlike the nuclear-specific localization of PAX3-FKHR, the reciprocal FKHR-PAX3 proteins stayed predominantly in the cytoplasm. FKHR-PAX3 potently inhibited myogenesis in both non-transformed myoblast cells and ARMS cells. We showed that FKHR-PAX3 was not a classic oncogene but could act as a facilitator in oncogenic pathways by stabilizing PAX3-FKHR expression, enhancing cell proliferation, clonogenicity, anchorage-independent growth, and matrix adhesion in vitro, and accelerating the onset of tumor formation in xenograft mouse model in vivo. In addition to these pro-oncogenic behaviors, FKHR-PAX3 also negatively affected cell migration and invasion in vitro and lung metastasis in vivo. Taken together, these functional characteristics suggested that FKHR-PAX3 might have a critical role in the early stage of ARMS development.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- Cell Adhesion
- Cell Differentiation
- Cell Movement
- Cell Proliferation
- Chromosomes, Human, Pair 13/genetics
- Chromosomes, Human, Pair 2/genetics
- Forkhead Box Protein O1
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/genetics
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Gene Expression
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- HEK293 Cells
- Humans
- Lung Neoplasms/genetics
- Lung Neoplasms/metabolism
- Lung Neoplasms/secondary
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Nude
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Muscle Neoplasms/genetics
- Muscle Neoplasms/metabolism
- Muscle Neoplasms/pathology
- Myoblasts/metabolism
- NIH 3T3 Cells
- Neoplasm Transplantation
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/metabolism
- PAX3 Transcription Factor
- Paired Box Transcription Factors/genetics
- Paired Box Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Protein Transport
- Rhabdomyosarcoma, Alveolar/genetics
- Rhabdomyosarcoma, Alveolar/metabolism
- Rhabdomyosarcoma, Alveolar/secondary
- Transcriptional Activation
- Translocation, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiande Hu
- Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Yewen Yuan
- Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Chiayeng Wang
- Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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20
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Olanich ME, Barr FG. A call to ARMS: targeting the PAX3-FOXO1 gene in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2013; 17:607-23. [PMID: 23432728 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2013.772136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Expression of fusion oncoproteins generated by recurrent chromosomal translocations represents a major tumorigenic mechanism characteristic of multiple cancers, including one-third of all sarcomas. Oncogenic fusion genes provide novel targets for therapeutic intervention. The PAX3-FOXO1 oncoprotein in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) is presented as a paradigm to examine therapeutic strategies for targeting sarcoma-associated fusion genes. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the role of PAX3-FOXO1 in ARMS tumors. Besides evaluating various approaches to molecularly target PAX3-FOXO1 itself, this review highlights therapeutically attractive downstream genes activated by PAX3-FOXO1. EXPERT OPINION Oncogenic fusion proteins represent desirable therapeutic targets because their expression is specific to tumor cells, but these fusions generally characterize rare malignancies. Full development and testing of potential drugs targeted to these fusions are complicated by the small numbers of patients in these disease categories. Although efforts to develop targeted therapies against fusion proteins should continue, molecular targets that are applicable to a broader tumor landscape should be pursued. A shift of the traditional paradigm to view therapeutic intervention as target-specific rather than tumor-specific will help to circumvent the challenges posed by rare tumors and maximize the possibility of developing successful new treatments for patients with these rare translocation-associated sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E Olanich
- National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, Laboratory of Pathology , Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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21
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Herrero Martín D, Boro A, Schäfer BW. Cell-based small-molecule compound screen identifies fenretinide as potential therapeutic for translocation-positive rhabdomyosarcoma. PLoS One 2013; 8:e55072. [PMID: 23372815 PMCID: PMC3555977 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0055072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 12/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A subset of paediatric sarcomas are characterized by chromosomal translocations encoding specific oncogenic transcription factors. Such fusion proteins represent tumor specific therapeutic targets although so far it has not been possible to directly inhibit their activity by small-molecule compounds. In this study, we hypothesized that screening a small-molecule library might identify already existing drugs that are able to modulate the transcriptional activity of PAX3/FOXO1, the fusion protein specifically found in the pediatric tumor alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (aRMS). Towards this end, we established a reporter cell line based on the well characterized PAX3/FOXO1 target gene AP2ß. A library enriched in mostly FDA approved drugs was screened using specific luciferase activity as read-out and normalized for cell viability. The most effective inhibitor identified from this screen was Fenretinide. Treatment with this compound resulted in down-regulation of PAX3/FOXO1 mRNA and protein levels as well as in reduced expression of several of its direct target genes, but not of wild-type FOXO1, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Moreover, fenretinide induced reactive oxygen species and apoptosis as shown by caspase 9 and PARP cleavage and upregulated miR-9. Importantly, it demonstrated a significant anti-tumor effect in vivo. These results are similar to earlier reports for two other pediatric tumors, namely neuroblastoma and Ewing sarcoma, where fenretinide is under clinical development. Our results suggest that fenretinide might represent a novel treatment option also for translocation-positive rhabdomyosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Herrero Martín
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Ayakannu T, Taylor AH, Marczylo TH, Willets JM, Konje JC. The endocannabinoid system and sex steroid hormone-dependent cancers. Int J Endocrinol 2013; 2013:259676. [PMID: 24369462 PMCID: PMC3863507 DOI: 10.1155/2013/259676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2013] [Revised: 10/09/2013] [Accepted: 10/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The "endocannabinoid system (ECS)" comprises the endocannabinoids, the enzymes that regulate their synthesis and degradation, the prototypical cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), some noncannabinoid receptors, and an, as yet, uncharacterised transport system. Recent evidence suggests that both cannabinoid receptors are present in sex steroid hormone-dependent cancer tissues and potentially play an important role in those malignancies. Sex steroid hormones regulate the endocannabinoid system and the endocannabinoids prevent tumour development through putative protective mechanisms that prevent cell growth and migration, suggesting an important role for endocannabinoids in the regulation of sex hormone-dependent tumours and metastasis. Here, the role of the endocannabinoid system in sex steroid hormone-dependent cancers is described and the potential for novel therapies assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, P.O. Box 65, Leicester, Leicestershire LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Anthony H. Taylor
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, P.O. Box 65, Leicester, Leicestershire LE2 7LX, UK
- *Anthony H. Taylor:
| | - Timothy H. Marczylo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, P.O. Box 65, Leicester, Leicestershire LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Jonathon M. Willets
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, P.O. Box 65, Leicester, Leicestershire LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Justin C. Konje
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, P.O. Box 65, Leicester, Leicestershire LE2 7LX, UK
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Marshall AD, Grosveld GC. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma - The molecular drivers of PAX3/7-FOXO1-induced tumorigenesis. Skelet Muscle 2012. [PMID: 23206814 PMCID: PMC3564712 DOI: 10.1186/2044-5040-2-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a soft tissue sarcoma arising from cells of a mesenchymal or skeletal muscle lineage. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) is more aggressive than the more common embryonal (ERMS) subtype. ARMS is more prone to metastasis and carries a poorer prognosis. In contrast to ERMS, the majority of ARMS tumors carry one of several characteristic chromosomal translocations, such as t(2;13)(q35;q14), which results in the expression of a PAX3-FOXO1 fusion transcription factor. In this review we discuss the genes that cooperate with PAX3-FOXO1, as well as the target genes of the fusion transcription factor that contribute to various aspects of ARMS tumorigenesis. The characterization of these pathways will lead to a better understanding of ARMS tumorigenesis and will allow the design of novel targeted therapies that will lead to better treatment for this aggressive pediatric tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy D Marshall
- Department of Genetics, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA.
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24
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Davicioni E, Wai DH, Anderson MJ. Diagnostic and Prognostic Sarcoma Signatures. Mol Diagn Ther 2012; 12:359-74. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03256302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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25
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Calhabeu F, Hayashi S, Morgan JE, Relaix F, Zammit PS. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma-associated proteins PAX3/FOXO1A and PAX7/FOXO1A suppress the transcriptional activity of MyoD-target genes in muscle stem cells. Oncogene 2012; 32:651-62. [DOI: 10.1038/onc.2012.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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26
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Abstract
The endocannabinoid system consists of an array of endogenously produced bioactive lipids that activate cannabinoid receptors. Although the primary focus of endocannabinoid biology has been on neurological and psychiatric effects, recent work has revealed several important interactions between the endocannabinoid system and cancer. Several different types of cancer have abnormal regulation of the endocannabinoid system that contributes to cancer progression and correlates to clinical outcomes. Modulation of the endocannabinoid system by pharmacological agents in various cancer types reveals that it can mediate antiproliferative and apoptotic effects by both cannabinoid receptor-dependent and -independent pathways. Selective agonists and antagonists of the cannabinoid receptors, inhibitors of endocannabinoid hydrolysis, and cannabinoid analogs have been utilized to probe the pathways involved in the effects of the endocannabinoid system on cancer cell apoptosis, proliferation, migration, adhesion, and invasion. The antiproliferative and apoptotic effects produced by some of these pharmacological probes reveal that the endocannabinoid system is a promising new target for the development of novel chemotherapeutics to treat cancer.
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Marshall AD, Lagutina I, Grosveld GC. PAX3-FOXO1 induces cannabinoid receptor 1 to enhance cell invasion and metastasis. Cancer Res 2011; 71:7471-80. [PMID: 22037868 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-11-0924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) is a muscle-derived childhood tumor characterized by production of oncogenic PAX3/7-FOXO1 chimeric transcription factors. While downstream targets of the PAX3-FOXO1 oncoprotein in ARMS have been defined, the functional relevance of these targets is unclear. Here, we show that upregulation of the cannabinoid receptor 1 (Cnr1/Cb1) by PAX3-FOXO1 in mouse primary myoblasts and ARMS cell lines, contributes to PAX3-FOXO1 phenotypes, both in vivo and in vitro. In primary myoblasts, Cnr1 was dispensable for PAX3-FOXO1 to mediate cell proliferation, differentiation, or transformation; however, Cnr1 function was essential to increase the invasive capacity conferred by PAX3-FOXO1 overexpression in these cells. Genetic or pharmacologic abrogation of Cnr1 inhibited the enhanced basement membrane invasion induced by PAX3-FOXO1. Cnr1 loss by either route also dramatically reduced lung metastasis formation. Taken together, our findings strongly implicate Cnr1 as a novel tractable target to inhibit ARMS invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy D Marshall
- Department of Genetics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, USA
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Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a morphologically and clinically heterogeneous group of malignant tumors that resemble developing skeletal muscle and is the most common soft-tissue sarcoma in children and adolescents. The most prominent sites involve head and neck structures (~40%), genito-urinary track (~25%), and extremities (~20%). Embryonal (ERMS) and alveolar (ARMS) are the two major RMS subtypes that are distinct in their morphology and genetic make-up. The prognosis for this cancer depends strongly on tumor size, location, staging, and child's age. In general, ERMS has a more favorable outcome, whereas the mortality rate remains high in patients with ARMS, because of its aggressive and metastatic nature. Over the past two decades, researchers have made concerted efforts to delineate genetic and epigenetic changes associated with RMS pathogenesis. These molecular signatures have presented golden opportunities to design targeted therapies for treating this aggressive cancer. This article highlights recent advances in understanding the molecular pathogenesis of RMS, and addresses promising research areas for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Wang
- Department of Oral Biology and Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases, University of Illinois at Chicago, 801 South Paulina Street, RM530CB, m/c 860, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Rengaswamy V, Kontny U, Rössler J. New approaches for pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma drug discovery: targeting combinatorial signaling. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2011; 6:1103-25. [PMID: 22646865 DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2011.611498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) are rare heterogeneous pediatric tumors that are treated by surgery, chemotherapy and irradiation. New therapeutic approaches are needed, especially in the advanced stages to target the pro-oncogenic signals. Exploring the molecular interactions of the regulatory signals and their roles in the developmental aspects of different subtypes of RMS is essential to identify potential targets and develop new therapeutic drugs. AREAS COVERED Insights into different drug discovery approaches are discussed with specific emphasis on gene expression profiling, fusion protein, role of small interfering RNA (siRNA)- and microRNA (miRNA)-based discovery approaches, targeting cancer stem cells, and in vitro and in vivo model systems. Targeting some overexpressed signals along with the possibilities of combination therapy of validated drug targets is discussed. Additionally, methods to overcome the limitations of discovery-based research are briefly discussed. EXPERT OPINION Due to drug resistance, ineffective therapy in advanced stages and relapse, there is a demand to explore new drug targets and discovery approaches. Implementing miRNA-based profiling would reveal the extent of miR-based regulation, various biomarkers and potential targets in RMS. A suitable combination of innovative techniques and the use of model systems might assist the identification and validation of novel targets and drug discovery methods. Combining specific drugs along with type-specific target inhibition of overexpressed mRNAs through siRNA approaches would enable the development of personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatesh Rengaswamy
- University Hospital Freiburg, Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Clinic IV: Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Mathildenstr. 1, 79106 Freiburg , Germany +49 761 270 43000 ; +49 761 270 45180 ;
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30
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Zhang Y, Wang C. Nephroblastoma overexpressed (NOV/CCN3) gene: a paired-domain-specific PAX3-FKHR transcription target that promotes survival and motility in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cells. Oncogene 2011; 30:3549-62. [PMID: 21423212 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2011.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The CCN (Cy61, CTGF and NOV) family of proteins is a group of matricellular biomolecules involved in both physiological and pathological processes. Elevated expression of the CCN3 (also known as NOV, Nephroblastoma overexpressed) gene has been detected in clinical samples of the skeletal muscle cancer rhabdomyosarcoma, with the highest expression found in the alveolar subtype (aRMS). Over 80% of aRMSs are characterized by a chromosomal translocation-derived fusion transcription factor PAX3-FKHR. In this study, we linked elevated CCN3 levels in aRMS cells to PAX3-FKHR expression. We found reduced CCN3 levels in aRMS cells following small interfering RNA knockdown of PAX3-FKHR, and increased CCN3 levels in C2 myoblasts following ectopic expression of PAX3-FKHR. Promoter, electrophoretic mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses confirmed that the CCN3 gene was a direct target for PAX3-FKHR transcriptional activation through a paired-domain DNA sequence in the first intron of the CCN3 gene. To determine the function of CCN3, we showed that knockdown and ectopic expression of CCN3 decreased survival and increased differentiation in aRMS cells, respectively. In addition, we found that exogenously supplied CCN3 protein promoted aRMS cell adhesion, migration and Matrigel invasion. Taken together, data from this study have (1) provided a mechanistic basis for the CCN3 overexpression in aRMS cells, and (2) identified CCN3 as an autocrine/paracrine factor that contributes to the aggressive behavior of aRMS cells, perhaps through a positive feedback loop. Thus, CCN3 may be an attractive target for therapeutic intervention in aRMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Zhang
- Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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31
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Cao L, Yu Y, Bilke S, Walker RL, Mayeenuddin LH, Azorsa DO, Yang F, Pineda M, Helman LJ, Meltzer PS. Genome-wide identification of PAX3-FKHR binding sites in rhabdomyosarcoma reveals candidate target genes important for development and cancer. Cancer Res 2010; 70:6497-508. [PMID: 20663909 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-0582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The PAX3-FKHR fusion protein is present in a majority of alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas associated with increased aggressiveness and poor prognosis. To better understand the molecular pathogenesis of PAX3-FKHR, we carried out the first, unbiased genome-wide identification of PAX3-FKHR binding sites and associated target genes in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. The data shows that PAX3-FKHR binds to the same sites as PAX3 at both MYF5 and MYOD enhancers. The genome-wide analysis reveals that the PAX3-FKHR sites are (a) mostly distal to transcription start sites, (b) conserved, (c) enriched for PAX3 motifs, and (d) strongly associated with genes overexpressed in PAX3-FKHR-positive rhabdomyosarcoma cells and tumors. There is little evidence in our data set for PAX3-FKHR binding at the promoter sequences. The genome-wide analysis further illustrates a strong association between PAX3 and E-box motifs in these binding sites, suggestive of a common coregulation for many target genes. We also provide the first direct evidence that FGFR4 and IGF1R are the targets for PAX3-FKHR. The map of PAX3-FKHR binding sites provides a framework for understanding the pathogenic roles of PAX3-FKHR, as well as its molecular targets to allow a systematic evaluation of agents against this aggressive rhabdomyosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Cao
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA.
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32
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De Giovanni C, Landuzzi L, Nicoletti G, Lollini PL, Nanni P. Molecular and cellular biology of rhabdomyosarcoma. Future Oncol 2009; 5:1449-75. [DOI: 10.2217/fon.09.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a group of soft-tissue sarcomas that share features of skeletal myogenesis, but show extensive heterogeneity in histology, age and site of onset, and prognosis. This review matches recent molecular data with biological features of rhabdomyosarcoma. Alterations in molecular pathways, animal models, cell of origin and potential new therapeutic targets are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla De Giovanni
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Cancer Research Section, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorena Landuzzi
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giordano Nicoletti
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pier-Luigi Lollini
- Department of Hematology and Oncological Sciences ‘L. e A. Seragnoli’, Viale Filopanti 22, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | - Patrizia Nanni
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Cancer Research Section, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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33
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Nishijo K, Chen QR, Zhang L, McCleish AT, Rodriguez A, Cho MJ, Prajapati SI, Gelfond JAL, Chisholm GB, Michalek JE, Aronow BJ, Barr FG, Randall RL, Ladanyi M, Qualman SJ, Rubin BP, LeGallo RD, Wang C, Khan J, Keller C. Credentialing a preclinical mouse model of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. Cancer Res 2009; 69:2902-11. [PMID: 19339268 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-08-3723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The highly aggressive muscle cancer alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) is one of the most common soft tissue sarcoma of childhood, yet the outcome for the unresectable and metastatic disease is dismal and unchanged for nearly three decades. To better understand the pathogenesis of this disease and to facilitate novel preclinical approaches, we previously developed a conditional mouse model of ARMS by faithfully recapitulating the genetic mutations observed in the human disease, i.e., activation of Pax3:Fkhr fusion gene with either p53 or Cdkn2a inactivation. In this report, we show that this model recapitulates the immunohistochemical profile and the rapid progression of the human disease. We show that Pax3:Fkhr expression increases during late preneoplasia but tumor cells undergoing metastasis are under apparent selection for Pax3:Fkhr expression. At a whole-genome level, a cross-species gene set enrichment analysis and metagene projection study showed that our mouse model is most similar to human ARMS when compared with other pediatric cancers. We have defined an expression profile conserved between mouse and human ARMS, as well as a Pax3:Fkhr signature, including the target gene, SKP2. We further identified 7 "druggable" kinases overexpressed across species. The data affirm the accuracy of this genetically engineered mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichi Nishijo
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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Greene ND, Massa V, Copp AJ. Understanding the causes and prevention of neural tube defects: Insights from thesplotchmouse model. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 85:322-30. [DOI: 10.1002/bdra.20539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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35
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Jones AM, Mitter R, Poulsom R, Gillett C, Hanby AM, Tomlinson IPM, Sawyer EJ. mRNA expression profiling of phyllodes tumours of the breast: identification of genes important in the development of borderline and malignant phyllodes tumours. J Pathol 2008; 216:408-17. [PMID: 18937276 DOI: 10.1002/path.2439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify genes involved in the development of borderline and malignant phyllodes tumours of the breast (PTs). Expression profiling of 23 PTs (12 benign, 11 borderline/malignant) was performed using Affymetrix U133A GeneChips. mRNA expression in the borderline/malignant PTs was compared to the benign PTs. A group of 162 genes was over-expressed in the borderline/malignant group with a fold change > 2 and FDR < 0.1. Four of these genes were chosen for further investigation: PAX3, SIX1, TGFB2 and HMGA2. Over-expression was validated in a separate set of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumours, using either in situ hybridization or immunohistochemistry. This confirmed that expression of PAX3, SIX1, TGFB2 and HMGA2 in the stromal component of PTs was associated with the borderline/malignant phenotypes (p = 8.7 x 10(-5), p = 0.05, p = 0.009, p = 0.003, respectively; Fisher's exact test). The functional consequences of down-regulating these genes were studied using siRNA in short-term cultures and cell lines established from PTs. mRNA 'knock-down' of PAX3 resulted in significantly decreased cell proliferation in both a malignant and a borderline PT cell culture. mRNA 'knock-down' of SIX1 and HMGA2 resulted in decreased cell proliferation only in the malignant PT cell line, and 'knock-down' of TGFB2 resulted in decreased cell proliferation only in the borderline PT cell culture. This study shows that these four genes are involved in the development of borderline/malignant PTs. SIX1 over-expression was most marked in the highly malignant PTs, with particularly high expression in one case of metastatic PT. PAX3, TGFB2 and HMGA2 were expressed predominantly in borderline/malignant PTs, but showed some expression in benign tumours; they may be important in the transition from the benign to borderline/malignant phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Jones
- Molecular and Population Genetics Laboratory, Cancer Research UK, 44 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PX, UK
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36
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Amstutz R, Wachtel M, Troxler H, Kleinert P, Ebauer M, Haneke T, Oehler-Jänne C, Fabbro D, Niggli FK, Schäfer BW. Phosphorylation regulates transcriptional activity of PAX3/FKHR and reveals novel therapeutic possibilities. Cancer Res 2008; 68:3767-76. [PMID: 18483260 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-07-2447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of constitutive active signaling pathways, which are a characteristic phenomenon for many tumors, can be an effective therapeutic strategy. In contrast, oncogenic transcription factors, often activated by mutational events, are in general less amenable to small-molecule inhibition despite their obvious importance as therapeutic targets. One example of this is alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (aRMS), in which specific translocations lead to the formation of the chimeric transcription factor PAX3/FKHR. Here, we found unexpectedly that the transcriptional activity of PAX3/FKHR can be inhibited by the kinase inhibitor PKC412. This occurs via specific phosphorylation sites in the PAX3 domain, phosphorylation of which is required for efficient DNA-binding and subsequent transcriptional activity. Consequently, we show that PKC412 exerts a potent antitumorigenic potential for aRMS treatment both in vitro and in vivo. Our study suggests that posttranscriptional modifications of oncogenic transcription factors can be explored as a promising avenue for targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Amstutz
- Department of Oncology and Division of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Children's Hospital, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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37
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PAX3-FOXO1 fusion gene in rhabdomyosarcoma. Cancer Lett 2008; 270:10-8. [PMID: 18457914 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2008.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2008] [Revised: 03/26/2008] [Accepted: 03/26/2008] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma of childhood and adolescence. The predominant histologic variants of this disease are termed embryonal (eRMS) and alveolar (aRMS), based on their appearance under light microscopy. Of the two, aRMS is associated with an more aggressive disease pattern and a higher mortality, mandating a better understanding of this cancer at the molecular level. The PAX3-FOXO1 fusion gene, resulting from the stable reciprocal translocation of chromosomes 2 and 13, is a signature genetic change found only in aRMS, and thought to be responsible at least in part for its malignant phenotype. This review will discuss the clinical significance of the PAX3-FOXO1 fusion gene, the pertinent historical and current models used to study its oncogenic contributions, the transcriptional targets that are thought to mediate these contributions, and the cellular mechanisms impacted by PAX3-FOXO1 that ultimately lead to aRMS.
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Kikuchi K, Tsuchiya K, Otabe O, Gotoh T, Tamura S, Katsumi Y, Yagyu S, Tsubai-Shimizu S, Miyachi M, Iehara T, Hosoi H. Effects of PAX3-FKHR on malignant phenotypes in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 365:568-74. [PMID: 18022385 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2007] [Accepted: 11/02/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The malignancy of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) has been linked to expression of the PAX3-FKHR chimeric gene. To understand the effect of this gene, we used RNAi to knock down its expression (without affecting the expressions of either PAX3 or FKHR) in human ARMS cell lines. Down-regulating PAX3-FKHR caused (a) tumor cells to accumulate in the G1 phase, inhibiting the rate of cellular proliferation, (b) a reduction in the levels of the MET, reducing cell motility stimulated by HGF, and (c) induction of the myogenic differentiation gene, myogenin, and muscle differentiation (morphologic change and the expression of muscle specific proteins, desmin, and myosin heavy chain). These results suggest that PAX3-FKHR in ARMS cells promotes malignant phenotypes such as proliferation, motility, and to suppress differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Kikuchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kawaramchi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
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39
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Segrelles C, Moral M, Lorz C, Santos M, Lu J, Cascallana JL, Lara MF, Carbajal S, Martínez-Cruz AB, García-Escudero R, Beltran L, Segovia JC, Bravo A, DiGiovanni J, Paramio JM. Constitutively active Akt induces ectodermal defects and impaired bone morphogenetic protein signaling. Mol Biol Cell 2007; 19:137-49. [PMID: 17959825 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e07-08-0764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Akt pathway has been implicated in several human pathologies including cancer. However, current knowledge on the involvement of Akt signaling in development is limited. Previous data have suggested that Akt-mediated signaling may be an essential mediator of epidermal homeostasis through cell autonomous and noncell autonomous mechanisms. Here we report the developmental consequences of deregulated Akt activity in the basal layer of stratified epithelia, mediated by the expression of a constitutively active Akt1 (myrAkt) in transgenic mice. Contrary to mice overexpressing wild-type Akt1 (Akt(wt)), these myrAkt mice display, in a dose-dependent manner, altered development of ectodermally derived organs such as hair, teeth, nails, and epidermal glands. To identify the possible molecular mechanisms underlying these alterations, gene profiling approaches were used. We demonstrate that constitutive Akt activity disturbs the bone morphogenetic protein-dependent signaling pathway. In addition, these mice also display alterations in adult epidermal stem cells. Collectively, we show that epithelial tissue development and homeostasis is dependent on proper regulation of Akt expression and activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Segrelles
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Division of Biomedicine, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
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40
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Laé M, Ahn EH, Mercado GE, Chuai S, Edgar M, Pawel BR, Olshen A, Barr FG, Ladanyi M. Global gene expression profiling of PAX-FKHR fusion-positive alveolar and PAX-FKHR fusion-negative embryonal rhabdomyosarcomas. J Pathol 2007; 212:143-51. [PMID: 17471488 DOI: 10.1002/path.2170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Paediatric rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) are classified into two major subtypes based on histological appearance, embryonal (ERMS) and alveolar (ARMS), but this clinically critical distinction is often difficult on morphological grounds alone. ARMS, the more aggressive subtype, is associated in most cases with unique recurrent translocations fusing the PAX3 or PAX7 transcription factor genes to FKHR. In contrast, ERMS lacks unique genetic alterations. To identify novel diagnostic markers and potential therapeutic targets, we analysed the global gene expression profiles of these two RMS subtypes in 23 ARMS (16 PAX3-FKHR, 7 PAX7-FKHR) and 15 ERMS (all PAX-FKHR-negative) using Affymetrix HG-U133A oligonucleotide arrays. A statistically stringent supervised comparison of the ARMS and ERMS expression profiles revealed 121 genes that were significantly differentially expressed, of which 112 were higher in ARMS, including genes of interest as potential diagnostic markers or therapeutic targets, such as CNR1, PIPOX (sarcosine oxidase), and TFAPbeta. Interestingly, many known or putative downstream targets of PAX3-FKHR were highly overexpressed in ARMS relative to ERMS, including CNR1, DCX, ABAT, ASS, JAKMIP2, DKFZp762M127, and NRCAM. We validated the highly differential expression of five genes, including CNR1, DKFZp762M127, DCX, PIPOX, and FOXF1 in ARMS relative to ERMS by quantitative RT-PCR on an independent set of samples. Finally, we developed a ten-gene microarray-based predictor that distinguished ARMS from ERMS with approximately 95% accuracy both in our data by cross-validation and in an independent validation using a published dataset of 26 samples. The gene expression signature of ARMS provides a source of potential diagnostic markers, therapeutic targets, and PAX-FKHR downstream genes, and can be used to reliably distinguish these sarcomas from ERMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Laé
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA
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41
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Ebauer M, Wachtel M, Niggli FK, Schäfer BW. Comparative expression profiling identifies an in vivo target gene signature with TFAP2B as a mediator of the survival function of PAX3/FKHR. Oncogene 2007; 26:7267-81. [PMID: 17525748 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1210525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The chromosomal translocation t(2;13), characteristic for the aggressive childhood cancer alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (aRMS), generates the chimeric transcription factor PAX3/FKHR with a well known oncogenic role. However, the molecular mechanisms mediating essential pathophysiological functions remain poorly defined. Here, we used comparative expression profiling of PAX3/FKHR silencing in vitro and PAX3/FKHR-specific gene signatures in vivo to identify physiologically important target genes. Hereby, 51 activated genes, both novel and known, were identified. We also found repression of skeletal muscle-specific genes suggesting that PAX3/FKHR blocks further differentiation of aRMS cells. Importantly, TFAP2B was validated as direct target gene mediating the anti-apoptotic function of PAX3/FKHR. Hence, we developed a pathophysiologically relevant transcriptional profile of PAX3/FKHR and identified a critical target gene for aRMS development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ebauer
- Department of Oncology, University Children's Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
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42
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Wang Q, Kumar S, Mitsios N, Slevin M, Kumar P. Investigation of downstream target genes of PAX3c, PAX3e and PAX3g isoforms in melanocytes by microarray analysis. Int J Cancer 2007; 120:1223-31. [PMID: 17187370 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.22316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
PAX3 encodes a transcription factor, which with Zic1 is necessary for induction of the neural crest during early embryonic development. There are 7 human PAX3 isoforms (a-h). PAX3e is the full length isoform comprising 10 exons. PAX3c comprises 8 exons plus 5 codons of intron 8, while PAX3g has a truncated transactivation domain. Previous studies by us indicated that these isoforms have different activities in melanocytes in vitro. In this study, a mouse gene oligo array ( approximately 7.5 k oligos), from the Human Genome Mapping Project (HGMP) Resource Centre, was used to screen for alterations in downstream gene expression in PAX3c, PAX3e and PAX3g melanocyte transfectants, compared with empty vector controls. The data analyses identified 109 genes up or downregulated, at least 2-fold, and involved in cell differentiation, proliferation, migration, adhesion, apoptosis and angiogenesis. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting confirmed the changes identified by microarrays for several putative targets of PAX3, including Met, MyoD and Muc18, and previously undescribed targets, including Dhh, Fgf17, Kitl and Rac1. Thus, our data reveal that PAX3 isoforms regulate distinct but overlapping sets of genes in melanocytes in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyu Wang
- School of Biology, Chemistry and Health Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
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43
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Scuoppo C, Riess I, Schmitt-Ney M, Allegra P, Forni PE, Bersani F, Taulli R, Accornero P, Crepaldi T, Ponzetto C. The oncogenic transcription factor PAX3-FKHR can convert fibroblasts into contractile myotubes. Exp Cell Res 2007; 313:2308-17. [PMID: 17490646 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2007.02.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2006] [Revised: 02/15/2007] [Accepted: 02/15/2007] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
PAX3-FKHR, the product of a rearrangement of PAX3 with FKHR is the pathogenetic marker for alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, an aggressive form of childhood cancer. In this work we show that PAX3-FKHR, which is a stronger transcriptional activator relative to PAX3, can lead to two apparently irreconcilable outcomes: transformation and terminal myogenic differentiation. Fibroblasts (10T1/2, NIH3T3, and a newly established murine line named 'Plus') transduced by PAX3-FKHR acquire transformed features such as anchorage independence and loss of contact inhibition and concomitantly undergo various degrees of myogenic conversion depending on the host cells, including, in the case of the Plus line, terminal differentiation into contractile myotubes. This work highlights the potential of PAX3-FKHR to functionally operate as a deregulated Pangene and may have implications with regard to the identity of the precursor cell giving rise to alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Scuoppo
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CeRMS), Molinette Hospital, Turin, Italy
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44
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Zhang L, Wang C. Identification of a new class of PAX3-FKHR target promoters: a role of the Pax3 paired box DNA binding domain. Oncogene 2007; 26:1595-605. [PMID: 16964289 PMCID: PMC2238811 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1209958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2006] [Revised: 07/18/2006] [Accepted: 07/21/2006] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (aRMS), an aggressive skeletal muscle cancer, carries a unique t(2;13) chromosomal translocation resulting in the formation of a chimeric transcription factor PAX3-FKHR. This fusion protein contains the intact DNA-binding domains (PD: paired box binding domain; HD: paired-type homeodomain) of Pax3 fused to the activation domain of FKHR. Cells expressing Pax3 and PAX3-FKHR show vastly different gene expression patterns, despite that they share the same DNA-binding domains. We present evidence of a gain of function mechanism that allows the fusion protein to recognize and transcriptionally activate response elements containing a PD-specific binding site. This DNA recognition specificity is in contrast to the requirement for Pax3-specific target sequences that must contain a composite of PD-and HD-binding sites. Domain swapping studies suggest that an increased structural flexibility could account for the relaxed DNA targeting specificity in PAX3-FKHR. Here, we identify myogenin gene as a direct target of PD-dependent PAX3-FKHR activation pathway in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrate that PAX3-FKHR could induce myogenin expression in undifferentiated myoblasts by a MyoD independent pathway, and that PAX3-FKHR is directly involved in myogenin expression in aRMS cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Zhang
- Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Suvà ML, Cironi L, Riggi N, Stamenkovic I. Sarcomas: genetics, signalling, and cellular origins. Part 2: TET-independent fusion proteins and receptor tyrosine kinase mutations. J Pathol 2007; 213:117-30. [PMID: 17703479 DOI: 10.1002/path.2208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Although the mechanisms that underlie sarcoma development are still poorly understood, the identification of non-random chromosomal translocations and receptor tyrosine kinase mutations associated with defined sarcoma types has provided new insight into the pathogenesis of these tumours. In Part 1 of the review (J Pathol 2007;213:4-20), we addressed sarcomas that express fusion genes containing TET gene family products. Part 2 of the review summarizes our current understanding of the implications of fusion genes that do not contain TET family members in sarcoma development, as well as that of specific mutations in genes encoding receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). The final section will serve as a summary of both reviews and will attempt to provide a synthesis of some of the emerging principles of sarcomagenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-L Suvà
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Davicioni E, Finckenstein FG, Shahbazian V, Buckley JD, Triche TJ, Anderson MJ. Identification of a PAX-FKHR gene expression signature that defines molecular classes and determines the prognosis of alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas. Cancer Res 2006; 66:6936-46. [PMID: 16849537 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-05-4578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 233] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas (ARMS) are aggressive soft-tissue sarcomas affecting children and young adults. Most ARMS tumors express the PAX3-FKHR or PAX7-FKHR (PAX-FKHR) fusion genes resulting from the t(2;13) or t(1;13) chromosomal translocations, respectively. However, up to 25% of ARMS tumors are fusion negative, making it unclear whether ARMS represent a single disease or multiple clinical and biological entities with a common phenotype. To test to what extent PAX-FKHR determine class and behavior of ARMS, we used oligonucleotide microarray expression profiling on 139 primary rhabdomyosarcoma tumors and an in vitro model. We found that ARMS tumors expressing either PAX-FKHR gene share a common expression profile distinct from fusion-negative ARMS and from the other rhabdomyosarcoma variants. We also observed that PAX-FKHR expression above a minimum level is necessary for the detection of this expression profile. Using an ectopic PAX3-FKHR and PAX7-FKHR expression model, we identified an expression signature regulated by PAX-FKHR that is specific to PAX-FKHR-positive ARMS tumors. Data mining for functional annotations of signature genes suggested a role for PAX-FKHR in regulating ARMS proliferation and differentiation. Cox regression modeling identified a subset of genes within the PAX-FKHR expression signature that segregated ARMS patients into three risk groups with 5-year overall survival estimates of 7%, 48%, and 93%. These prognostic classes were independent of conventional clinical risk factors. Our results show that PAX-FKHR dictate a specific expression signature that helps define the molecular phenotype of PAX-FKHR-positive ARMS tumors and, because it is linked with disease outcome in ARMS patients, determine tumor behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elai Davicioni
- Department of Pathology and Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, and Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California 90027, USA
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Wachtel M, Runge T, Leuschner I, Stegmaier S, Koscielniak E, Treuner J, Odermatt B, Behnke S, Niggli FK, Schäfer BW. Subtype and prognostic classification of rhabdomyosarcoma by immunohistochemistry. J Clin Oncol 2006; 24:816-22. [PMID: 16391296 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2005.03.4934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is classified into two main subgroups: the embryonal (ERMS) and the alveolar (ARMS) form. The majority of the ARMSs are associated with specific chromosomal translocations (pARMS). Because ARMS is much more aggressive than ERMS, RMS subclassification has clinical relevance. However, diagnosis of RMS subgroups on the basis of histology or molecular biology can be difficult, and supplementing diagnostic methods would be desirable. The aim of this study was to establish a panel of markers for RMS subgroup classification by immunohistochemistry. MATERIALS AND METHODS Gene expression data were used for selection of subgroup-specific markers. Single sections of RMS with available expression data were used for establishment of the immunohistochemistry. Evaluation of the sensitivity and specificity of the markers was carried out using a tissue array representing 252 RMSs. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were calculated for determination of differences in overall survival of the different staining subgroups. RESULTS AP2beta and P-cadherin were selected as markers for pARMS, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and fibrillin-2 as markers for ERMS. EGFR + fibrillin-2 detected ERMS with a specificity of 90% and with a sensitivity of 60%. AP2beta + P-cadherin detected pARMS with a specificity of 98% and a sensitivity of 64%, and allowed the detection of several misclassified tumors. The EGFR + fibrillin-2-positive group is associated with a favorable outcome, and the AP2beta + P-cadherin-positive group is associated with an unfavorable outcome. CONCLUSION The presented set of marker proteins detects RMS subgroups with high specificity and may be useful in routine subtype classification of RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Wachtel
- University Children's Hospital, Division of Oncology, Zurich, Switzerland
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