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Hoffmann M, Trummer N, Schwartz L, Jankowski J, Lee HK, Willruth LL, Lazareva O, Yuan K, Baumgarten N, Schmidt F, Baumbach J, Schulz MH, Blumenthal DB, Hennighausen L, List M. TF-Prioritizer: a Java pipeline to prioritize condition-specific transcription factors. Gigascience 2022; 12:giad026. [PMID: 37132521 PMCID: PMC10155229 DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giad026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eukaryotic gene expression is controlled by cis-regulatory elements (CREs), including promoters and enhancers, which are bound by transcription factors (TFs). Differential expression of TFs and their binding affinity at putative CREs determine tissue- and developmental-specific transcriptional activity. Consolidating genomic datasets can offer further insights into the accessibility of CREs, TF activity, and, thus, gene regulation. However, the integration and analysis of multimodal datasets are hampered by considerable technical challenges. While methods for highlighting differential TF activity from combined chromatin state data (e.g., chromatin immunoprecipitation [ChIP], ATAC, or DNase sequencing) and RNA sequencing data exist, they do not offer convenient usability, have limited support for large-scale data processing, and provide only minimal functionality for visually interpreting results. RESULTS We developed TF-Prioritizer, an automated pipeline that prioritizes condition-specific TFs from multimodal data and generates an interactive web report. We demonstrated its potential by identifying known TFs along with their target genes, as well as previously unreported TFs active in lactating mouse mammary glands. Additionally, we studied a variety of ENCODE datasets for cell lines K562 and MCF-7, including 12 histone modification ChIP sequencing as well as ATAC and DNase sequencing datasets, where we observe and discuss assay-specific differences. CONCLUSION TF-Prioritizer accepts ATAC, DNase, or ChIP sequencing and RNA sequencing data as input and identifies TFs with differential activity, thus offering an understanding of genome-wide gene regulation, potential pathogenesis, and therapeutic targets in biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Hoffmann
- Big Data in BioMedicine Group, Chair of Experimental Bioinformatics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising D-85354, Germany
- Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University of Munich, Garching D-85748, Germany
- National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Nico Trummer
- Big Data in BioMedicine Group, Chair of Experimental Bioinformatics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising D-85354,Germany
| | - Leon Schwartz
- Big Data in BioMedicine Group, Chair of Experimental Bioinformatics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising D-85354,Germany
| | - Jakub Jankowski
- National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Hye Kyung Lee
- National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lina-Liv Willruth
- Big Data in BioMedicine Group, Chair of Experimental Bioinformatics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising D-85354,Germany
| | - Olga Lazareva
- Division of Computational Genomics and Systems Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Junior Clinical Cooperation Unit, Multiparametric Methods for Early Detection of Prostate Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Genome Biology Unit, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kevin Yuan
- Big Data Institute, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK
| | - Nina Baumgarten
- Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research, Partner site Rhein-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardio-Pulmonary Institute, Goethe University Hospital, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Florian Schmidt
- Laboratory of Systems Biology and Data Analytics, Genome Institute of Singapore, 60 Biopolis Street, Singapore138672, Singapore
| | - Jan Baumbach
- Chair of Computational Systems Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Computational BioMedicine Lab, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Marcel H Schulz
- Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research, Partner site Rhein-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardio-Pulmonary Institute, Goethe University Hospital, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - David B Blumenthal
- Biomedical Network Science Lab, Department Artificial Intelligence in Biomedical Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lothar Hennighausen
- Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University of Munich, Garching D-85748, Germany
- National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Markus List
- Big Data in BioMedicine Group, Chair of Experimental Bioinformatics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising D-85354,Germany
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Herbal Ingredients in the Prevention of Breast Cancer: Comprehensive Review of Potential Molecular Targets and Role of Natural Products. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6044640. [PMID: 36017236 PMCID: PMC9398845 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6044640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Among various cancers, breast cancer is the most prevalent type in women throughout the world. Breast cancer treatment is challenging due to complex nature of the etiology of disease. Cell division cycle alterations are often encountered in a variety of cancer types including breast cancer. Common treatments include chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy; however, adverse effects and multidrug resistance lead to complications and noncompliance. Accordingly, there is an increasing demand for natural products from medicinal plants and foods. This review summarizes molecular mechanisms of signaling pathways in breast cancer and identifies mechanisms by which natural compounds may exert their efficacy in the treatment of breast cancer.
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Abstract
Somatic stem cells are distinguished by their capacity to regenerate themselves and also to produce daughter cells that will differentiate. Self-renewal is achieved through the process of asymmetric cell division which helps to sustain tissue morphogenesis as well as maintain homeostasis. Asymmetric cell division results in the development of two daughter cells with different fates after a single mitosis. Only one daughter cell maintains "stemness" while the other differentiates and achieves a non-stem cell fate. Stem cells also have the capacity to undergo symmetric division of cells that results in the development of two daughter cells which are identical. Symmetric division results in the expansion of the stem cell population. Imbalances and deregulations in these processes can result in diseases such as cancer. Adult mammary stem cells (MaSCs) are a group of cells that play a critical role in the expansion of the mammary gland during puberty and any subsequent pregnancies. Furthermore, given the relatively long lifespans and their capability to undergo self-renewal, adult stem cells have been suggested as ideal candidates for transformation events that lead to the development of cancer. With the possibility that MaSCs can act as the source cells for distinct breast cancer types; understanding their regulation is an important field of research. In this review, we discuss asymmetric cell division in breast/mammary stem cells and implications on further research. We focus on the background history of asymmetric cell division, asymmetric cell division monitoring techniques, identified molecular mechanisms of asymmetric stem cell division, and the role asymmetric cell division may play in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian W Booth
- Department of Bioengineering, Head-Cellular Engineering Laboratory, 401-1 Rhodes Engineering Research Center, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA.
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4
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Peer E, Aichberger SK, Vilotic F, Gruber W, Parigger T, Grund-Gröschke S, Elmer DP, Rathje F, Ramspacher A, Zaja M, Michel S, Hamm S, Aberger F. Casein Kinase 1D Encodes a Novel Drug Target in Hedgehog-GLI-Driven Cancers and Tumor-Initiating Cells Resistant to SMO Inhibition. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164227. [PMID: 34439381 PMCID: PMC8394935 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Uncontrolled activation of hedgehog (HH)—GLI signaling contributes to the development of several human malignancies. Targeted inhibition of the HH—GLI signaling cascade with small-molecule inhibitors can reduce cancer growth, but patient relapse is very common due to the development of drug resistance. Therefore, a high unmet medical need exists for new drug targets and inhibitors to achieve efficient and durable responses. In the current study, we identified CSNK1D as a novel drug target in the HH—GLI signaling pathway. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of CSNK1D activity leads to suppression of oncogenic HH—GLI signaling, even in cancer cells in which already approved HH inhibitors are no longer effective due to resistance mechanisms. Inhibition of CSNK1D function reduces the malignant properties of so-called tumor-initiating cells, thereby limiting cancer growth and presumably metastasis. The results of this study form the basis for the development of efficient CSNK1D inhibitors for the therapy of HH—GLI-associated cancers. Abstract (1) Background: Aberrant activation of the hedgehog (HH)—GLI pathway in stem-like tumor-initiating cells (TIC) is a frequent oncogenic driver signal in various human malignancies. Remarkable efficacy of anti-HH therapeutics led to the approval of HH inhibitors targeting the key pathway effector smoothened (SMO) in basal cell carcinoma and acute myeloid leukemia. However, frequent development of drug resistance and severe adverse effects of SMO inhibitors pose major challenges that require alternative treatment strategies targeting HH—GLI in TIC downstream of SMO. We therefore investigated members of the casein kinase 1 (CSNK1) family as novel drug targets in HH—GLI-driven malignancies. (2) Methods: We genetically and pharmacologically inhibited CSNK1D in HH-dependent cancer cells displaying either sensitivity or resistance to SMO inhibitors. To address the role of CSNK1D in oncogenic HH signaling and tumor growth and initiation, we quantitatively analyzed HH target gene expression, performed genetic and chemical perturbations of CSNK1D activity, and monitored the oncogenic transformation of TIC in vitro and in vivo using 3D clonogenic tumor spheroid assays and xenograft models. (3) Results: We show that CSNK1D plays a critical role in controlling oncogenic GLI activity downstream of SMO. We provide evidence that inhibition of CSNK1D interferes with oncogenic HH signaling in both SMO inhibitor-sensitive and -resistant tumor settings. Furthermore, genetic and pharmacologic perturbation of CSNK1D decreases the clonogenic growth of GLI-dependent TIC in vitro and in vivo. (4) Conclusions: Pharmacologic targeting of CSNK1D represents a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of both SMO inhibitor-sensitive and -resistant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Peer
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Sophie Karoline Aichberger
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Filip Vilotic
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Wolfgang Gruber
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Thomas Parigger
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
- Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Salzburg Cancer Research Institute, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, IIIrd Medical Department, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Sandra Grund-Gröschke
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Dominik Patrick Elmer
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Florian Rathje
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Andrea Ramspacher
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
- Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Mirko Zaja
- 4SC AG, Planegg-Martinsried, 82152 Planegg, Germany; (M.Z.); (S.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Susanne Michel
- 4SC AG, Planegg-Martinsried, 82152 Planegg, Germany; (M.Z.); (S.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Svetlana Hamm
- 4SC AG, Planegg-Martinsried, 82152 Planegg, Germany; (M.Z.); (S.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Fritz Aberger
- Department of Bioscience, Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (E.P.); (S.K.A.); (F.V.); (W.G.); (T.P.); (S.G.-G.); (D.P.E.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-662-8044-5792
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Tian M, Qi Y, Zhang X, Wu Z, Chen J, Chen F, Guan W, Zhang S. Regulation of the JAK2-STAT5 Pathway by Signaling Molecules in the Mammary Gland. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:604896. [PMID: 33282878 PMCID: PMC7705115 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.604896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and signal transducers and activators of transcription 5 (STAT5) are involved in the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of mammary gland epithelial cells. Dysregulation of JAK2-STAT5 activity invariably leads to mammary gland developmental defects and/or diseases, including breast cancer. Proper functioning of the JAK2-STAT5 signaling pathway relies on crosstalk with other signaling pathways (synergistically or antagonistically), which leads to normal biological performance. This review highlights recent progress regarding the critical components of the JAK2-STAT5 pathway and its crosstalk with G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling, PI3K-Akt signaling, growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, hormone receptors, and cell adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Tian
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingao Qi
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhihui Wu
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaming Chen
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,College of Animal Science and National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wutai Guan
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,College of Animal Science and National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shihai Zhang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,College of Animal Science and National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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6
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Niyaz M, Khan MS, Mudassar S. Hedgehog Signaling: An Achilles' Heel in Cancer. Transl Oncol 2019; 12:1334-1344. [PMID: 31352196 PMCID: PMC6664200 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog signaling pathway originally identified in the fruit fly Drosophila is an evolutionarily conserved signaling mechanism with crucial roles in embryogenesis, growth and patterning. It exerts its biological effect through a signaling mechanism that terminates at glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) transcription factors which alternate between activator and repressor forms and mediate various responses. The important components of the pathway include the hedgehog ligands (SHH), the Patched (PTCH) receptor, Smoothened (SMO), Suppressor of Fused (SuFu) and GLI transcription factors. Activating or inactivating mutations in key genes cause uncontrolled activation of the pathway in a ligand independent manner. The ligand-dependent aberrant activation of the hedgehog pathway causing overexpression of hedgehog pathway components and its target genes occurs in autocrine as well as paracrine fashion. In adults, aberrant activation of hedgehog signaling has been linked to birth defects and multiple solid cancers. In this review, we assimilate data from recent studies to understand the mechanism of functioning of the hedgehog signaling pathway, role in cancer, its association in various solid malignancies and the current strategies being used to target this pathway for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madiha Niyaz
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, - 190011 Srinagar, Kashmir
| | - Mosin S Khan
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, - 190011 Srinagar, Kashmir
| | - Syed Mudassar
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, - 190011 Srinagar, Kashmir.
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Bhateja P, Cherian M, Majumder S, Ramaswamy B. The Hedgehog Signaling Pathway: A Viable Target in Breast Cancer? Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11081126. [PMID: 31394751 PMCID: PMC6721501 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The hedgehog (Hh) pathway plays a key role in embryonic development and stem cell programs. Deregulation of the Hh pathway is a key driver of basal cell carcinoma, and therapeutic targeting led to approval of Hh inhibitor, vismodegib, in the management of this cancer. The Hh pathway is implicated in other malignancies including hormone receptor (HR+) positive and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Hh signaling, which is activated in human mammary stem cells, results in activation of glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) transcription factors. High GLI1 expression correlates with worse outcomes in breast cancer. Non-canonical GLI1 activation is one mechanism by which estrogen exposure promotes breast cancer stem cell proliferation and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Tamoxifen resistant cell lines show aberrant activation of Hh signaling, and knockdown of Hh pathway inhibited growth of tamoxifen resistant cells. As in other cancers Hh signaling is activated by the PI3K/AKT pathway in these endocrine resistant cell lines. Hh pathway activation has also been reported to mediate chemotherapy resistance in TNBC via various mechanisms including paracrine signaling to tumor micro-environment and selective proliferation of cancer stem cells. Co-activation of Hh and Wnt signaling pathways is a poor prognostic marker in TNBC. Early phase clinical trials are evaluating the combination of smoothened (SMO) inhibitors and chemotherapy in TNBC. In addition to SMO inhibitors like vismodegib and sonidegib, which are in clinical use for basal cell carcinoma, GLI1 inhibitors like GANT58 and GANT61 are in preclinical drug development and might be an effective mechanism to overcome drug resistance in breast cancer. Gene signatures predictive of Hh pathway activation could enrich for patients likely to respond to these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Bhateja
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Mathew Cherian
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Sarmila Majumder
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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Norum JH, Frings O, Kasper M, Bergholtz H, Zell Thime H, Bergström Å, Andersson A, Kuiper R, Fredlund E, Sørlie T, Toftgård R. GLI1‐induced mammary gland tumours are transplantable and maintain major molecular features. Int J Cancer 2019; 146:1125-1138. [DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jens Henrik Norum
- Department of Biosciences and NutritionKarolinska Institutet Huddinge Sweden
- Department of Cancer GeneticsInstitute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital Oslo Norway
| | - Oliver Frings
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Oncology‐PathologyKarolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Maria Kasper
- Department of Biosciences and NutritionKarolinska Institutet Huddinge Sweden
| | - Helga Bergholtz
- Department of Cancer GeneticsInstitute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital Oslo Norway
| | - Helene Zell Thime
- Department of Cancer GeneticsInstitute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital Oslo Norway
| | - Åsa Bergström
- Department of Biosciences and NutritionKarolinska Institutet Huddinge Sweden
| | - Agneta Andersson
- Department of Biosciences and NutritionKarolinska Institutet Huddinge Sweden
| | - Raoul Kuiper
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Center for Innovative Medicine (CIMED)Karolinska Institutet Huddinge Sweden
| | - Erik Fredlund
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Oncology‐PathologyKarolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Therese Sørlie
- Department of Cancer GeneticsInstitute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital Oslo Norway
| | - Rune Toftgård
- Department of Biosciences and NutritionKarolinska Institutet Huddinge Sweden
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9
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Role of Hedgehog Signaling in Breast Cancer: Pathogenesis and Therapeutics. Cells 2019; 8:cells8040375. [PMID: 31027259 PMCID: PMC6523618 DOI: 10.3390/cells8040375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women, only followed by lung cancer. Given the importance of BC in public health, it is essential to identify biomarkers to predict prognosis, predetermine drug resistance and provide treatment guidelines that include personalized targeted therapies. The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway plays an essential role in embryonic development, tissue regeneration, and stem cell renewal. Several lines of evidence endorse the important role of canonical and non-canonical Hh signaling in BC. In this comprehensive review we discuss the role of Hh signaling in breast development and homeostasis and its contribution to tumorigenesis and progression of different subtypes of BC. We also examine the efficacy of agents targeting different components of the Hh pathway both in preclinical models and in clinical trials. The contribution of the Hh pathway in BC tumorigenesis and progression, its prognostic role, and its value as a therapeutic target vary according to the molecular, clinical, and histopathological characteristics of the BC patients. The evidence presented here highlights the relevance of the Hh signaling in BC, and suggest that this pathway is key for BC progression and metastasis.
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10
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Feng Y, Spezia M, Huang S, Yuan C, Zeng Z, Zhang L, Ji X, Liu W, Huang B, Luo W, Liu B, Lei Y, Du S, Vuppalapati A, Luu HH, Haydon RC, He TC, Ren G. Breast cancer development and progression: Risk factors, cancer stem cells, signaling pathways, genomics, and molecular pathogenesis. Genes Dis 2018; 5:77-106. [PMID: 30258937 PMCID: PMC6147049 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 594] [Impact Index Per Article: 99.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As the most commonly occurring cancer in women worldwide, breast cancer poses a formidable public health challenge on a global scale. Breast cancer consists of a group of biologically and molecularly heterogeneous diseases originated from the breast. While the risk factors associated with this cancer varies with respect to other cancers, genetic predisposition, most notably mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, is an important causative factor for this malignancy. Breast cancers can begin in different areas of the breast, such as the ducts, the lobules, or the tissue in between. Within the large group of diverse breast carcinomas, there are various denoted types of breast cancer based on their invasiveness relative to the primary tumor sites. It is important to distinguish between the various subtypes because they have different prognoses and treatment implications. As there are remarkable parallels between normal development and breast cancer progression at the molecular level, it has been postulated that breast cancer may be derived from mammary cancer stem cells. Normal breast development and mammary stem cells are regulated by several signaling pathways, such as estrogen receptors (ERs), HER2, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways, which control stem cell proliferation, cell death, cell differentiation, and cell motility. Furthermore, emerging evidence indicates that epigenetic regulations and noncoding RNAs may play important roles in breast cancer development and may contribute to the heterogeneity and metastatic aspects of breast cancer, especially for triple-negative breast cancer. This review provides a comprehensive survey of the molecular, cellular and genetic aspects of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixiao Feng
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, Departments of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Orthopaedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burn, and Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Mia Spezia
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Shifeng Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, Departments of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Orthopaedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burn, and Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Chengfu Yuan
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, China Three Gorges University School of Medicine, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Zongyue Zeng
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine and School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Linghuan Zhang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Stem Cell Biology and Therapy Laboratory, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, The Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Xiaojuan Ji
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Stem Cell Biology and Therapy Laboratory, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, The Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, Departments of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Orthopaedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burn, and Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Bo Huang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine and School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Wenping Luo
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, Departments of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Orthopaedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burn, and Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yan Lei
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, Departments of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Orthopaedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burn, and Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Scott Du
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Student Inquiry Research Program, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA), Aurora, IL 60506, USA
| | - Akhila Vuppalapati
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Student Inquiry Research Program, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA), Aurora, IL 60506, USA
| | - Hue H. Luu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Rex C. Haydon
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Tong-Chuan He
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Guosheng Ren
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, Departments of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Orthopaedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burn, and Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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EMT programs promote basal mammary stem cell and tumor-initiating cell stemness by inducing primary ciliogenesis and Hedgehog signaling. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E10532-E10539. [PMID: 29158396 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1711534114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue regeneration relies on adult stem cells (SCs) that possess the ability to self-renew and produce differentiating progeny. In an analogous manner, the development of certain carcinomas depends on a small subset of tumor cells, called "tumor-initiating cells" (TICs), with SC-like properties. Mammary SCs (MaSCs) reside in the basal compartment of the mammary epithelium, and their neoplastic counterparts, mammary TICs (MaTICs), are thought to serve as the TICs for the claudin-low subtype of breast cancer. MaSCs and MaTICs both use epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) programs to acquire SC properties, but the mechanism(s) connecting EMT programs to stemness remain unclear. Here we show that this depends on primary cilia, which are nonmotile, cell-surface structures that serve as platforms for receiving cues and enable activation of various signaling pathways. We show that MaSC and MaTIC EMT programs induce primary cilia formation and Hedgehog (Hh) signaling, which has previously been implicated in both MaSC and MaTIC function. Moreover, ablation of these primary cilia is sufficient to repress Hh signaling, the stemness of MaSCs, and the tumor-forming potential of MaTICs. Together, our findings establish primary ciliogenesis and consequent Hh signaling as a key mechanism by which MaSC and MaTIC EMT programs promote stemness and thereby support mammary tissue outgrowth and tumors of basal origin.
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12
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Wang B, Yu T, Hu Y, Xiang M, Peng H, Lin Y, Han L, Zhang L. Prognostic role of Gli1 expression in breast cancer: a meta-analysis. Oncotarget 2017; 8:81088-81097. [PMID: 29113369 PMCID: PMC5655264 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioma-associated oncogene 1 (Gli1) is a critical transcriptional factor of Sonic hedgehog pathway which has been proved to participate in the initiation and progression of tumor in mammalians. However, its clinical value in breast cancer remains unknown. Thus, a meta-analysis was performed to clarify the association of Gli1 over-expression, clinic-pathological characteristics, molecular subtypes and prognosis in breast cancer. According to included criteria, 13 eligible studies containing 2816 patients all around the world were selected in this study. Our results indicated no significant association of Gli1 expression and histological grade (RR = 1.20, 95% CI: [0.98, 1.47]), T stage (RR = 1.05, 95% CI: [0.87, 1.27]), clinical stage (RR = 1.04, 95% CI: [0.93, 1.18]) and lymph node metastasis (RR = 1.12, 95% CI: [0.92, 1.37]). In addition, pooled RR showed no correlation of Gli1 expression and progesterone receptor (PR) (RR = 0.92, 95% CI: [0.70, 1.21]), estrogen receptor (ER) (RR = 1.03, 95% CI: [0.74, 1.42]), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) (RR = 1.12, 95% CI: [0.90, 1.39]). Nonetheless, up-regulated Gli1 expression predicts shorter disease-free survival (DFS) (HR = 1.38, 95% CI: [1.05, 1.81]), 3-year survival (HR = 1.74, 95% CI: [1.28, 2.36]), 5-year survival (HR = 2.04, 95% CI: [1.62, 2.57]) and overall survival (OS) (HR = 2.05, 95% CI: [1.60, 2.64]). In conclusion, over-expression of Gli1 tends to progressive stages and is related to unfavorable prognosis of breast cancer, which may become a potential prognosis indicator and therapy target in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Ting Yu
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Yuzhu Hu
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Mengmeng Xiang
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Haoning Peng
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Yunzhu Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Lu Han
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Lingli Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
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13
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Monkkonen T, Lewis MT. New paradigms for the Hedgehog signaling network in mammary gland development and breast Cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2017; 1868:315-332. [PMID: 28624497 PMCID: PMC5567999 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The Hedgehog signaling network regulates organogenesis, cell fate, proliferation, survival, and stem cell self-renewal in many mammalian tissues. Aberrant activation of the Hedgehog signaling network is present in ~25% of all cancers, including breast. Altered expression of Hedgehog network genes in the mammary gland can elicit phenotypes at many stages of development. However, synthesizing a cohesive mechanistic model of signaling at different stages of development has been difficult. Emerging data suggest that this difficulty is due, in part, to non-canonical and tissue compartment-specific (i.e., epithelial, versus stromal, versus systemic) functions of Hedgehog network components. With respect to systemic functions, Hedgehog network genes regulate development of endocrine organs that impinge on mammary gland development extrinsically. These new observations offer insight into previously conflicting data, and have bearing on the potential for anti-Hedgehog therapeutics in the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Monkkonen
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; University of California, San Francisco, Dept. of Pathology, 513 Parnassus Ave., San Francisco, CA 94118, USA
| | - Michael T Lewis
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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14
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Lim Y, Gondek L, Li L, Wang Q, Ma H, Ma H, Chang E, Huso DL, Foerster S, Marchionni L, McGovern K, Watkins DN, Peacock CD, Levis M, Smith BD, Merchant AA, Small D, Matsui W. Integration of Hedgehog and mutant FLT3 signaling in myeloid leukemia. Sci Transl Med 2016; 7:291ra96. [PMID: 26062848 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaa5731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutations resulting in constitutive kinase activity are common in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and carry a poor prognosis. Several agents targeting FLT3 have been developed, but their limited clinical activity suggests that the inhibition of other factors contributing to the malignant phenotype is required. We examined gene expression data sets as well as primary specimens and found that the expression of GLI2, a major effector of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway, was increased in FLT3-ITD compared to wild-type FLT3 AML. To examine the functional role of the Hh pathway, we studied mice in which Flt3-ITD expression results in an indolent myeloproliferative state and found that constitutive Hh signaling accelerated the development of AML by enhancing signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) signaling and the proliferation of bone marrow myeloid progenitors. Furthermore, combined FLT3 and Hh pathway inhibition limited leukemic growth in vitro and in vivo, and this approach may serve as a therapeutic strategy for FLT3-ITD AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Lim
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Lukasz Gondek
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Li Li
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Qiuju Wang
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Hayley Ma
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | | | - Emily Chang
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - David L Huso
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Sarah Foerster
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Luigi Marchionni
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | | | - David Neil Watkins
- Cancer Developmental Biology, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Craig D Peacock
- Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Mark Levis
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Bruce Douglas Smith
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Akil A Merchant
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Donald Small
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA. Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - William Matsui
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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15
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Flemban A, Qualtrough D. The Potential Role of Hedgehog Signaling in the Luminal/Basal Phenotype of Breast Epithelia and in Breast Cancer Invasion and Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2015; 7:1863-84. [PMID: 26389956 PMCID: PMC4586799 DOI: 10.3390/cancers7030866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Revised: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelium of the lactiferous ducts in the breast is comprised of luminal epithelial cells and underlying basal myoepithelial cells. The regulation of cell fate and transit of cells between these two cell types remains poorly understood. This relationship becomes of greater importance when studying the subtypes of epithelial breast carcinoma, which are categorized according to their expression of luminal or basal markers. The epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a pivotal event in tumor invasion. It is important to understand mechanisms that regulate this process, which bears relation to the normal dynamic of epithelial/basal phenotype regulation in the mammary gland. Understanding this process could provide answers for the regulation of EMT in breast cancer, and thereby identify potential targets for therapy. Evidence points towards a role for hedgehog signaling in breast tissue homeostasis and also in mammary neoplasia. This review examines our current understanding of role of the hedgehog-signaling (Hh) pathway in breast epithelial cells both during breast development and homeostasis and to assess the potential misappropriation of Hh signals in breast neoplasia, cancer stem cells and tumor metastasis via EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwa Flemban
- Department of Biological, Biomedical and Analytical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK.
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia.
| | - David Qualtrough
- Department of Biological, Biomedical and Analytical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK.
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16
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Effect of glycogen synthase kinase-3 inactivation on mouse mammary gland development and oncogenesis. Oncogene 2014; 34:3514-26. [PMID: 25195860 PMCID: PMC4490903 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2014.279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Revised: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Many components of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway have critical functions in mammary gland development and tumor formation, yet the contribution of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3α and GSK-3β) to mammopoiesis and oncogenesis is unclear. Here, we report that WAP-Cre-mediated deletion of GSK-3 in the mammary epithelium results in activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and induces mammary intraepithelial neoplasia that progresses to squamous transdifferentiation and development of adenosquamous carcinomas at 6 months. To uncover possible β-catenin-independent activities of GSK-3, we generated mammary-specific knockouts of GSK-3 and β-catenin. Squamous transdifferentiation of the mammary epithelium was largely attenuated, however, mammary epithelial cells lost the ability to form mammospheres suggesting perturbation of stem cell properties unrelated to loss of β-catenin alone. At 10 months, adenocarcinomas that developed in glands lacking GSK-3 and β-catenin displayed elevated levels of γ-catenin/plakoglobin as well as activation of the Hedgehog and Notch pathways. Collectively, these results establish the two isoforms of GSK-3 as essential integrators of multiple developmental signals that act to maintain normal mammary gland function and suppress tumorigenesis.
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17
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Signaling pathways in breast cancer: therapeutic targeting of the microenvironment. Cell Signal 2014; 26:2843-56. [PMID: 25093804 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2014.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Understanding the biology of this malignant disease is a prerequisite for selecting an appropriate treatment. Cell cycle alterations are seen in many cancers, including breast cancer. Newly popular targeted agents in breast cancer include cyclin dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKIs) which are agents inhibiting the function of cyclin dependent kinases (CDKs) and agents targeting proto-oncogenic signaling pathways like Notch, Wnt, and SHH (Sonic hedgehog). CDKIs are categorized as selective and non-selective inhibitors of CDK. CDKIs have been tried as monotherapy and combination therapy. The CDKI Palbocyclib is now a promising therapeutic in breast cancer. This drug recently entered phase III trial for estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer after showing encouraging results in progression free survival in a phase II trials. The tumor microenvironment is now recognized as a significant factor in cancer treatment response. The tumor microenvironment is increasingly considered as a target for combination therapy of breast cancer. Recent findings in the signaling pathways in breast cancer are herein summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the therapeutic targeting of the microenvironment in breast cancer is also considered.
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18
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Zheng G, Tao Y, Yu W, Schwartz RJ. Brief report: SRF-dependent MiR-210 silences the sonic hedgehog signaling during cardiopoesis. Stem Cells 2014; 31:2279-85. [PMID: 23818299 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2012] [Revised: 05/21/2013] [Accepted: 05/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Serum response factor (SRF) wields potent gene silencing activity through its regulation over numerous microRNAs (miRs). Here, SRF directs embryonic stem cell (ESC) progenitor cell lineage specification in part by silencing genes through miR-210. Viral expression of miR-210 in murine ESCs-derived embryoid bodies (EBs) inhibited cell growth and inhibited the appearance of cardiac progenitor markers Nkx2.5 and Gata4 and terminal differentiated contractile proteins Mlc2v and βMHC. Knockdown of miR-210 expression via antisense RNA activated cardiac progenitor gene activity. miR-210 inhibitory activity was attributed to silencing of the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway, which fosters the cardiac progenitor program. miR-210 directly silenced Shh via targeting of the Shh 3'UTR, comparable to the chemical Shh inhibitor, cyclopamine. miR-210 silencing of Shh/Gli1 signaling also blocked expression of the cell cycle regulators Cyclin D1 and Cyclin D2, and EB cell expansion. Absence of SRF expression in SRF null EBs blocked miR-210 expression, coincident with enhanced Shh, and Gli1 gene activity. Thus, SRF-dependent miR-210 expression may operate as a novel silencer of the Shh signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoxing Zheng
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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19
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Mitchell EH, Serra R. Normal mammary development and function in mice with Ift88 deleted in MMTV- and K14-Cre expressing cells. Cilia 2014; 3:4. [PMID: 24594320 PMCID: PMC3942223 DOI: 10.1186/2046-2530-3-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Primary cilia (PC) are non-motile microtubule based organelles present on almost every cell type and are known to serve as critical organizing centers for several signaling pathways crucial to embryonic and postnatal development. Alterations in the Hh pathway, the most studied signaling pathway regulated by PC, affect mammary gland development as well as maintenance of the stem and progenitor cell populations. Results We developed mouse models with deletion of PC in mammary luminal epithelial, basal epithelial, and stromal cells for evaluation of the function of PC in mammary development via MMTV-Cre, K14-Cre, and Prx1-Cre mediated deletion, respectively. The activity of Cre was confirmed using ROSA26 reporters. Mammary stem and progenitor cells were enriched through growth as mammospheres. Adenovirus-Cre mediated deletion of Ift88 was used to determine a role for PC in this population of cells. Disruption of Ift88 and PC were confirmed in using PCR and immunofluorescent methods. Prx1-Cre; Ift88Del mice demonstrated defects in terminal end buds during puberty. However, these Ift88Del glands exhibited typical terminal end bud formation as well as normal ductal histology when transplanted into wild type hosts, indicating that the phenotype observed was not intrinsic to the mammary gland. Furthermore, no discernable alterations to mammary development were observed in MMTV-Cre- or K14-Cre; Ift88Del lines. These mice were able to feed and support several litters of pups even though wide spread depletion of PC was confirmed. Cells grown in mammosphere culture were enriched for PC containing cells suggesting PC are preferentially expressed on mammary stem and progenitor cells. Deletion of Ift88 in mammary epithelial cells resulted in a significant reduction in the number of primary mammospheres established; however, there was no effect on outgrowth of secondary mammospheres in PC-depleted cells. Conclusions PC regulate systemic factors that can affect mammary development in early puberty. PC on MMTV- or K14-expressing epithelial cells are not required for normal mammary development or function. PC are expressed at high levels on cells in mammosphere cultures. PC may be required for cells to establish mammospheres in culture; however, PC are not required for renewal of the cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rosa Serra
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd,, 660 MCLM, Birmingham, AL, 35294-0005, USA.
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20
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Jeng KS, Sheen IS, Jeng WJ, Yu MC, Hsiau HI, Chang FY. High expression of Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway genes indicates a risk of recurrence of breast carcinoma. Onco Targets Ther 2013; 7:79-86. [PMID: 24403838 PMCID: PMC3883580 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s54702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormal activation of the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway contributing to carcinogenesis of some organs has been reported in the literature. We hypothesize that activation of the SHH pathway contributes to the recurrence of breast carcinoma. METHODS Fifty consecutive patients with invasive breast carcinoma following curative resection were enrolled in this prospective study. The ratios of messenger RNA (mRNA) expression for Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), patched homolog-1 (PTCH-1), glioma-associated oncogene-1 (GLI-1), and smoothened (SMOH) were measured between breast carcinoma tissue and paired noncancerous breast tissue. These ratios were compared with their clinicopathologic characteristics. These factors and the mRNA ratios were compared between patients with recurrence and those without recurrence. RESULTS The size of the invasive cancer correlated significantly with the ratio of SHH mRNA (P=0.001), that of PTCH-1 mRNA (P=0.005), and that of SMOH mRNA (P=0.021). Lymph node involvement correlated significantly with the ratio of SMOH mRNA (P=0.041). The correlation between Her-2 neu and the ratio of GLI-1 mRNA was statistically significant (P=0.012). Each ratio of mRNA of SHH, PTCH-1, GLI-1, and SMOH correlated significantly with cancer recurrence (P<0.001 for each). CONCLUSION We suggest that high expression of SHH mRNA, PTCH-1 mRNA, GLI-1 mRNA, and SMOH mRNA in breast cancer tissue correlates with invasiveness and is a potential biomarker to predict postoperative recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Shyang Jeng
- Department of Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - I-Shyan Sheen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Chang-Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Juei Jeng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Chang-Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Che Yu
- Department of Medical Research, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-I Hsiau
- Department of Medical Research, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Yu Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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21
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Hui M, Cazet A, Nair R, Watkins DN, O'Toole SA, Swarbrick A. The Hedgehog signalling pathway in breast development, carcinogenesis and cancer therapy. Breast Cancer Res 2013; 15:203. [PMID: 23547970 PMCID: PMC3672663 DOI: 10.1186/bcr3401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the progress achieved in breast cancer screening and therapeutic innovations, the basal-like subtype of breast cancer (BLBC) still represents a particular clinical challenge. In order to make an impact on survival in this type of aggressive breast cancer, new targeted therapeutic agents are urgently needed. Aberrant activation of the Hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathway has been unambiguously tied to cancer development and progression in a variety of solid malignancies, and the recent approval of vismodegib, an orally bioavailable small-molecule inhibitor of Smoothened, validates Hh signalling as a valuable therapeutic target. A number of recent publications have highlighted a role for Hh signalling in breast cancer models and clinical specimens. Interestingly, Hh ligand overexpression is associated with the BLBC phenotype and a poor outcome in terms of metastasis and breast cancer-related death. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the canonical Hh signalling pathway in mammals, highlight its roles in mammary gland development and breast carcinogenesis and discuss its potential therapeutic value in BLBC.
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García-Zaragoza E, Pérez-Tavarez R, Ballester A, Lafarga V, Jiménez-Reinoso A, Ramírez Á, Murillas R, Gallego MI. Intraepithelial paracrine Hedgehog signaling induces the expansion of ciliated cells that express diverse progenitor cell markers in the basal epithelium of the mouse mammary gland. Dev Biol 2012; 372:28-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2012.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2011] [Revised: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/11/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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23
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Ramaswamy B, Lu Y, Teng KY, Nuovo G, Li X, Shapiro CL, Majumder S. Hedgehog signaling is a novel therapeutic target in tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer aberrantly activated by PI3K/AKT pathway. Cancer Res 2012; 72:5048-59. [PMID: 22875023 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-12-1248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine resistance is a major challenge in the management of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancers. Although multiple mechanisms leading to endocrine resistance have been proposed, the poor outcome of patients developing resistance to endocrine therapy warrants additional studies. Here we show that noncanonical Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is an alternative growth promoting mechanism that is activated in tamoxifen-resistant tumors. Importantly, phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitor/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway plays a key role in regulating Hh signaling by protecting key components of this pathway from proteasomal degradation. The levels of Hh-signaling molecules SMO and GLI1 and the targets were significantly elevated in tamoxifen-resistant MCF-7 cells and T47D cells. Serial passage of the resistant cells in mice resulted in aggressive tumors that metastasized to distant organs with concurrent increases in Hh marker expression and epithelial mesenchymal transition. RNAi-mediated depletion of SMO or GLI1 in the resistant cells resulted in reduced proliferation, clonogenic survival and delayed G(1)-S transition. Notably, treatment of resistant cells with PI3K inhibitors decreased SMO and GLI1 protein levels and activity that was rescued upon blocking GSK3β and proteasomal degradation. Furthermore, treatment of tamoxifen-resistant xenografts with anti-Hh compound GDC-0449 blocked tumor growth in mice. Importantly, high GLI1 expression correlated inversely with disease-free and overall survival in a cohort of 315 patients with breast cancer. In summary, our results describe a signaling event linking PI3K/AKT pathway with Hh signaling that promotes tamoxifen resistance. Targeting Hh pathway alone or in combination with PI3K/AKT pathway could therefore be a novel therapeutic option in treating endocrine-resistant breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy
- Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Yuanzhi Lu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kun-Yu Teng
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Gerard Nuovo
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Xiaobai Li
- Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Charles L Shapiro
- Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Sarmila Majumder
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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24
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Hedgehog signaling plays roles in epithelial cell proliferation in neonatal mouse uterus and vagina. Cell Tissue Res 2012; 348:239-47. [PMID: 22388655 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-012-1350-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2011] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Both the uterus and vagina develop from the Müllerian duct but are quite distinct in morphology and function. To investigate factors controlling epithelial differentiation and cell proliferation in neonatal uterus and vagina, we focused on Hedgehog (HH) signaling. In neonatal mice, Sonic hh (Shh) was localized in the vaginal epithelium and Indian hh (Ihh) was slightly expressed in the uterus and vagina, whereas all Glioma-associated oncogene homolog (Gli) genes were mainly expressed in the stroma. The expression of target genes of HH signaling was high in the neonatal vagina and in the uterus, it increased with growth. Thus, in neonatal mice, Shh in the vaginal epithelium and Ihh in the uterus and vagina activated HH signaling in the stroma. Tissue recombinants showed that vaginal Shh expression was inhibited by the vaginal stroma and uterine Ihh expression was stimulated by the uterine stroma. Addition of a HH signaling inhibitor decreased epithelial cell proliferation in organ-cultured uterus and vagina and increased stromal cell proliferation in organ-cultured uterus. However, it did not affect epithelial differentiation or the expression of growth factors in organ-cultured uterus and vagina. Thus, activated HH signaling stimulates epithelial cell proliferation in neonatal uterus and vagina but inhibits stromal cell proliferation in neonatal uterus.
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25
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Fiaschi M, Kolterud A, Nilsson M, Toftgård R, Rozell B. Targeted expression of GLI1 in the salivary glands results in an altered differentiation program and hyperplasia. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 179:2569-79. [PMID: 21933656 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2011.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2011] [Revised: 07/01/2011] [Accepted: 07/19/2011] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is a regulator of salivary gland morphogenesis, but its role in postnatal glands has only recently begun to be addressed. To examine the effects of deregulated Hh signaling in the salivary gland, we expressed the Hh effector protein GLI1, in salivary epithelial cells using both cytokeratin 5 and mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) transgenic systems. Ectopic pathway activation resulted in restrained acinar differentiation, formation of cystic lesions, and prominent appearance of ductal structures. Moreover, induced expression of GLI1 aids the formation of hyperplastic lesions, which closely resemble GLI1-induced changes in murine skin and mammary glands, suggesting that GLI1 targets cells with similar characteristics in different tissues. Furthermore, GLI1-expressing salivary epithelial cells are actively dividing, and GLI1-induced lesions are proliferative, an incident accompanied by enhanced expression of the Hh target genes, cyclin D1, and Snail. GLI1-induced salivary lesions regress after transgene withdrawal and become histologically normalized. Taken together, our data reveal the ability of GLI1 to modulate salivary acinar differentiation and to promote proliferation of ductal epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Fiaschi
- Center for Biosciences, Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
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26
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Colvin Wanshura LE, Galvin KE, Ye H, Fernandez-Zapico ME, Wetmore C. Sequential activation of Snail1 and N-Myc modulates sonic hedgehog-induced transformation of neural cells. Cancer Res 2011; 71:5336-45. [PMID: 21646478 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-2633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Activation of the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway and increased expression of Gli1 play an important role in proliferation and transformation of granule cell progenitors (GCP) in the developing cerebellum. Medulloblastomas arising from cerebellar GCPs are frequently driven by Shh pathway-activating mutations; however, molecular mechanisms of Shh pathway dysregulation and transformation of neural progenitors remain poorly defined. We report that the transcription factor and oncogene Snail1 (Sna1) is directly induced by Shh pathway activity in GCPs, murine medulloblastomas, and human medulloblastoma cells. Enforced expression of Sna1 was sufficient to induce GCPs and medulloblastoma cell proliferation in the absence of Shh/Gli1 exposure. In addition, enforced expression of Sna1 increased transformation of medulloblastoma cells in vitro and in vivo. Analysis of potential Sna1 targets in neural cells revealed a novel Sna1 target, N-Myc, a transcription factor known to play a role in Shh-mediated GCP proliferation and medulloblastoma formation. We found that Sna1 directly induced transcription of N-Myc in human medulloblastoma cells and that depletion of N-Myc ablated the Sna1-induced proliferation and transformation. Taken together, these results provide further insight into the mechanism of Shh-induced transformation of neural progenitor cells and suggest that induction of Sna1 may serve to amplify the oncogenic potential of Shh pathway activation through N-Myc induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah E Colvin Wanshura
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
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27
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Wounding enhances epidermal tumorigenesis by recruiting hair follicle keratinocytes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:4099-104. [PMID: 21321199 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1014489108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic wounds and acute trauma constitute well-established risk factors for development of epithelial-derived skin tumors, although the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are the most common skin cancers displaying a number of features reminiscent of hair follicle (HF)-derived cells and are dependent on deregulated Hedgehog (Hh)/GLI signaling. Here we show, in a mouse model conditionally expressing GLI1 and in a model with homozygous inactivation of Ptch1, mimicking the situation in human BCCs, that the wound environment accelerates the initiation frequency and growth of BCC-like lesions. Lineage tracing reveals that both oncogene activation and wounding induce emigration of keratinocytes residing in the lower bulge and the nonpermanent part of the HFs toward the interfollicular epidermis (IFE). However, only oncogene activation in combination with a wound environment enables the participation of such cells in the initiation of BCC-like lesions at the HF openings and in the IFE. We conclude that, in addition to the direct enhancement of BCC growth, the tumor-promoting effect of the wound environment is due to recruitment of tumor-initiating cells originating from the neighboring HFs, establishing a link between epidermal wounds and skin cancer risk.
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28
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Visbal AP, LaMarca HL, Villanueva H, Toneff MJ, Li Y, Rosen JM, Lewis MT. Altered differentiation and paracrine stimulation of mammary epithelial cell proliferation by conditionally activated Smoothened. Dev Biol 2011; 352:116-27. [PMID: 21276786 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2011.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2010] [Revised: 01/14/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling network is critical for patterning and organogenesis in mammals, and has been implicated in a variety of cancers. Smoothened (Smo), the gene encoding the principal signal transducer, is overexpressed frequently in breast cancer, and constitutive activation in MMTV-SmoM2 transgenic mice caused alterations in mammary gland morphology, increased proliferation, and changes in stem/progenitor cell number. Both in transgenic mice and in clinical specimens, proliferative cells did not usually express detectable Smo, suggesting the hypothesis that Smo functioned in a non-cell autonomous manner to stimulate proliferation. Here, we employed a genetically tagged mouse model carrying a Cre-recombinase-dependent conditional allele of constitutively active Smo (SmoM2) to test this hypothesis. MMTV-Cre- or adenoviral-Cre-mediated SmoM2 expression in the luminal epithelium, but not in the myoepithelium, was required for the hyper-proliferative phenotypes. High levels of proliferation were observed in cells adjacent or in close-proximity to Smo expressing cells demonstrating that SmoM2 expressing cells were stimulating proliferation via a paracrine or juxtacrine mechanism. In contrast, Smo expression altered luminal cell differentiation in a cell-autonomous manner. SmoM2 expressing cells, purified by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) via the genetic fluorescent tag, expressed high levels of Ptch2, Gli1, Gli2, Jag2 and Dll-1, and lower levels of Notch4 and Hes6, in comparison to wildtype cells. These studies provide insight into the mechanism of Smo activation in the mammary gland and its possible roles in breast tumorigenesis. In addition, these results also have potential implications for the interpretation of proliferative phenotypes commonly observed in other organs as a consequence of hedgehog signaling activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana P Visbal
- Program in Developmental Biology Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Visbal AP, Lewis MT. Hedgehog signaling in the normal and neoplastic mammary gland. Curr Drug Targets 2011; 11:1103-11. [PMID: 20545610 DOI: 10.2174/138945010792006753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2010] [Accepted: 05/04/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The hedgehog signal transduction network is a critical regulator of metazoan development. Inappropriate activation of this network is implicated in several different cancers, including breast. Genetic evidence in mice as well as molecular biological studies in human cells clearly indicate that activated signaling can lead to mammary hyperplasia and, in some cases, tumor formation. However, the exact role(s) activated hedgehog signaling plays in the development or progression of breast cancer also remain unclear. In this review, we have discussed recent data regarding the mechanism(s) by which the hedgehog network may signal in the mammary gland, as well as the data implicating activated signaling as a contributing factor to breast cancer development. Finally, we provide a brief update on the available hedgehog signaling inhibitors with respect to ongoing clinical trials, some of which will include locally advanced or metastatic breast cancers. Given the growing intensity with which the hedgehog signaling network is being studied in the normal and neoplastic mammary gland, a more complete understanding of this network should allow more effective targeting of its activities in breast cancer treatment or prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana P Visbal
- The Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, BCM600, Room N1210, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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30
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Thiery JP, Acloque H, Huang RYJ, Nieto MA. Epithelial-mesenchymal transitions in development and disease. Cell 2009; 139:871-90. [PMID: 19945376 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2009.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7509] [Impact Index Per Article: 500.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays crucial roles in the formation of the body plan and in the differentiation of multiple tissues and organs. EMT also contributes to tissue repair, but it can adversely cause organ fibrosis and promote carcinoma progression through a variety of mechanisms. EMT endows cells with migratory and invasive properties, induces stem cell properties, prevents apoptosis and senescence, and contributes to immunosuppression. Thus, the mesenchymal state is associated with the capacity of cells to migrate to distant organs and maintain stemness, allowing their subsequent differentiation into multiple cell types during development and the initiation of metastasis.
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Fiaschi M, Rozell B, Bergström A, Toftgård R. Development of mammary tumors by conditional expression of GLI1. Cancer Res 2009; 69:4810-7. [PMID: 19458072 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-08-3938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A diverse set of cellular defects, presumably elicited by multiple genetic alterations, underlies cancer development. Aberrant Hedgehog (Hh) signaling has recently been implicated in the development and maintenance of breast cancer. However, evidence conclusively showing that activated Hh signaling can induce mammary tumors is lacking. We now show that transgenic expression of the Hh effector protein GLI1 under the regulation of the mouse mammary tumor virus promoter, expressed in the mouse mammary gland, is associated with the appearance of hyperplastic lesions, defective terminal end buds, and tumor development. The GLI1-induced tumors are histologically heterogeneous and involve the expansion of a population of epithelial cells expressing the progenitor cell markers keratin 6 and Bmi-1. Moreover, tumor cells express genes involved in proliferation, cell survival, and metastasis. GLI1-induced tumors do not fully regress following transgene deinduction, indicating that some tumors develop and are maintained autonomously, independent of sustained transgenic GLI1 expression. The data strongly support a role of Hh/GLI signaling in breast cancer development and suggest that inhibition of this signaling pathway represents a new therapeutic opportunity for limiting tumorigenesis and early tumorigenic progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Fiaschi
- Center for Biosciences, Department of Biosciences, Karolinska Institutet,Novum, SE-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
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32
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Moraes RC, Chang H, Harrington N, Landua JD, Prigge JT, Lane TF, Wainwright BJ, Hamel PA, Lewis MT. Ptch1 is required locally for mammary gland morphogenesis and systemically for ductal elongation. Development 2009; 136:1423-32. [PMID: 19297414 DOI: 10.1242/dev.023994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Systemic hormones and local growth factor-mediated tissue interactions are essential for mammary gland development. Using phenotypic and transplantation analyses of mice carrying the mesenchymal dysplasia (mes) allele of patched 1 (Ptch1(mes)), we found that Ptch1(mes) homozygosity led to either complete failure of gland development, failure of post-pubertal ductal elongation, or delayed growth with ductal dysplasia. All ductal phenotypes could be present in the same animal. Whole gland and epithelial fragment transplantation each yielded unique morphological defects indicating both epithelial and stromal functions for Ptch1. However, ductal elongation was rescued in all cases, suggesting an additional systemic function. Epithelial function was confirmed using a conditional null Ptch1 allele via MMTV-Cre-mediated disruption. In Ptch1(mes) homozygotes, failure of ductal elongation correlated with diminished estrogen and progesterone receptor expression, but could not be rescued by exogenous ovarian hormone treatment. By contrast, pituitary isografts were able to rescue the ductal elongation phenotype. Thus, Ptch1 functions in the mammary epithelium and stroma to regulate ductal morphogenesis, and in the pituitary to regulate ductal elongation and ovarian hormone responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo C Moraes
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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33
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Kasper M, Jaks V, Fiaschi M, Toftgård R. Hedgehog signalling in breast cancer. Carcinogenesis 2009; 30:903-11. [PMID: 19237605 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgp048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer death among women worldwide. In order to improve the treatment of this disease, a more complete understanding of its biological basis is necessary. Since the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway was recently found to be required for growth and propagation of a number of different cancers, we discuss here the possible involvement of this pathway in the normal biology and development of cancer in the mammary gland. The use of mouse mammary cancer models has assisted the process of dissecting the mechanisms behind Hh-driven mammary tumour formation and growth. Based on recent studies, we conclude that the inhibition of Hh signalling in breast tumours may interfere with the maintenance of a putative cancer stem cell compartment and the abnormal stimulation of tumour stroma. Therefore, the components of the Hh signalling cascade may provide a set of drug targets, which could be implemented into novel combinatorial strategies for the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kasper
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Novum, Huddinge, Sweden
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MMTV-Wnt1 and -DeltaN89beta-catenin induce canonical signaling in distinct progenitors and differentially activate Hedgehog signaling within mammary tumors. PLoS One 2009; 4:e4537. [PMID: 19225568 PMCID: PMC2639708 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0004537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2008] [Accepted: 01/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling regulates stem/progenitor cells and, when perturbed, induces many human cancers. A significant proportion of human breast cancer is associated with loss of secreted Wnt antagonists and mice expressing MMTV-Wnt1 and MMTV-ΔN89β-catenin develop mammary adenocarcinomas. Many studies have assumed these mouse models of breast cancer to be equivalent. Here we show that MMTV-Wnt1 and MMTV-ΔN89β-catenin transgenes induce tumors with different phenotypes. Using axin2/conductin reporter genes we show that MMTV-Wnt1 and MMTV-ΔN89β-catenin activate canonical Wnt signaling within distinct cell-types. ΔN89β-catenin activated signaling within a luminal subpopulation scattered along ducts that exhibited a K18+ER−PR−CD24highCD49flow profile and progenitor properties. In contrast, MMTV-Wnt1 induced canonical signaling in K14+ basal cells with CD24/CD49f profiles characteristic of two distinct stem/progenitor cell-types. MMTV-Wnt1 produced additional profound effects on multiple cell-types that correlated with focal activation of the Hedgehog pathway. We document that large melanocytic nevi are a hitherto unreported hallmark of early hyperplastic Wnt1 glands. These nevi formed along the primary mammary ducts and were associated with Hedgehog pathway activity within a subset of melanocytes and surrounding stroma. Hh pathway activity also occurred within tumor-associated stromal and K14+/p63+ subpopulations in a manner correlated with Wnt1 tumor onset. These data show MMTV-Wnt1 and MMTV-ΔN89β-catenin induce canonical signaling in distinct progenitors and that Hedgehog pathway activation is linked to melanocytic nevi and mammary tumor onset arising from excess Wnt1 ligand. They further suggest that Hedgehog pathway activation maybe a critical component and useful indicator of breast tumors arising from unopposed Wnt1 ligand.
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Expression of Gli1 correlates with the transition of breast cancer cells to estrogen-independent growth. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2009; 119:39-51. [PMID: 19191023 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-009-0323-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2008] [Accepted: 01/16/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The failure of breast cancer treatment is largely due to the development of estrogen independence. Current data illustrate that Hedgehog (Hh) signaling may play an important role in breast cancer development. Here, we show that the expression of the Hh effector protein, Gli1 was significantly higher in estrogen-independent breast cancer cells than in estrogen-dependent cells. Our data showed for the first time that stable expression of Gli1 in ER positive breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and T47D can induce estrogen-independent proliferation and promote G1/S phase transition, which associated with cyclin-Rb axi. Gli1 can also attenuate the response of proliferation to estrogenic stimulation, which was correlated with down-regulation of expression of ERalpha and PR, as well as down-regulation of transactivation of ERalpha. Our results suggest that up-regulation of Gli1 in breast cancer cells may be one of the mechanisms responsible for developing estrogen independence and this process may be regulated through down-regulation of expression and transactivation of ERalpha.
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Wu Y, Zhou BP. New insights of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in cancer metastasis. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2008; 40:643-50. [PMID: 18604456 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7270.2008.00443.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key step during embryonic morphogenesis, heart development, chronic degenerative fibrosis, and cancer metastasis. Several distinct traits have been conveyed by EMT, including cell motility, invasiveness, resistance to apoptosis, and some properties of stem cells. Many signal pathways have contributed to the induction of EMT, such as transforming growth factor-beta, Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, and nuclear factor-kappaB. Over the last few years, increasing evidence has shown that EMT plays an essential role in tumor progression and metastasis. Understanding the molecular mechanism of EMT has a great effect in unraveling the metastatic cascade and may lead to novel interventions for metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yadi Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Sealy Center for Cancer Cell Biology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555, USA
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