1
|
Wang X, Carvajal-Moreno J, Zhao X, Li J, Hernandez VA, Yalowich JC, Elton TS. Circumvention of Topoisomerase II α Intron 19 Intronic Polyadenylation in Acquired Etoposide-Resistant Human Leukemia K562 Cells. Mol Pharmacol 2024; 106:33-46. [PMID: 38719474 PMCID: PMC11187689 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.124.000868] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA topoisomerase IIα (TOP2α; 170 kDa, TOP2α/170) is an essential enzyme for proper chromosome dysjunction by producing transient DNA double-stranded breaks and is an important target for DNA damage-stabilizing anticancer agents, such as etoposide. Therapeutic effects of TOP2α poisons can be limited due to acquired drug resistance. We previously demonstrated decreased TOP2α/170 levels in an etoposide-resistant human leukemia K562 subline, designated K/VP.5, accompanied by increased expression of a C-terminal truncated TOP2α isoform (90 kDa; TOP2α/90), which heterodimerized with TOP2α/170 and was a determinant of resistance by exhibiting dominant-negative effects against etoposide activity. Based on 3'-rapid amplification of cDNA ends, we confirmed TOP2α/90 as the translation product of a TOP2α mRNA in which a cryptic polyadenylation site (PAS) harbored in intron 19 (I19) was used. In this report, we investigated whether the resultant intronic polyadenylation (IPA) would be attenuated by blocking or mutating the I19 PAS, thereby circumventing acquired drug resistance. An antisense morpholino oligonucleotide was used to hybridize/block the PAS in TOP2α pre-mRNA in K/VP.5 cells, resulting in decreased TOP2α/90 mRNA/protein levels in K/VP.5 cells and partially circumventing drug resistance. Subsequently, CRISPR/CRISPR-associated protein 9 with homology-directed repair was used to mutate the cryptic I19 PAS (AATAAA→ACCCAA) to prevent IPA. Gene-edited clones exhibited increased TOP2α/170 and decreased TOP2α/90 mRNA/protein and demonstrated restored sensitivity to etoposide and other TOP2α-targeted drugs. Together, results indicated that blocking/mutating a cryptic I19 PAS in K/VP.5 cells reduced IPA and restored sensitivity to TOP2α-targeting drugs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The results presented in this study indicate that CRISPR/CRISPR-associated protein 9 gene editing of a cryptic polyadenylation site (PAS) within I19 of the TOP2α gene results in the reversal of acquired resistance to etoposide and other TOP2-targeted drugs. An antisense morpholino oligonucleotide targeting the PAS also partially circumvented resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Wang
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy (X.W., J.C.-M., X.Z., V.A.H., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.L.), The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jessika Carvajal-Moreno
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy (X.W., J.C.-M., X.Z., V.A.H., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.L.), The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy (X.W., J.C.-M., X.Z., V.A.H., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.L.), The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Junan Li
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy (X.W., J.C.-M., X.Z., V.A.H., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.L.), The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Victor A Hernandez
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy (X.W., J.C.-M., X.Z., V.A.H., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.L.), The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jack C Yalowich
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy (X.W., J.C.-M., X.Z., V.A.H., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.L.), The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Terry S Elton
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy (X.W., J.C.-M., X.Z., V.A.H., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.L.), The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Carvajal-Moreno J, Wang X, Hernandez VA, Mondal M, Zhao X, Yalowich JC, Elton TS. Use of CRISPR/Cas9 with Homology-Directed Repair to Gene-Edit Topoisomerase II β in Human Leukemia K562 Cells: Generation of a Resistance Phenotype. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 389:186-196. [PMID: 38508753 PMCID: PMC11026151 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.002038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA topoisomerase IIβ (TOP2β/180; 180 kDa) is a nuclear enzyme that regulates DNA topology by generation of short-lived DNA double-strand breaks, primarily during transcription. TOP2β/180 can be a target for DNA damage-stabilizing anticancer drugs, whose efficacy is often limited by chemoresistance. Our laboratory previously demonstrated reduced levels of TOP2β/180 (and the paralog TOP2α/170) in an acquired etoposide-resistant human leukemia (K562) clonal cell line, K/VP.5, in part due to overexpression of microRNA-9-3p/5p impacting post-transcriptional events. To evaluate the effect on drug sensitivity upon reduction/elimination of TOP2β/180, a premature stop codon was generated at the TOP2β/180 gene exon 19/intron 19 boundary (AGAA//GTAA→ATAG//GTAA) in parental K562 cells (which contain four TOP2β/180 alleles) by CRISPR/Cas9 editing with homology-directed repair to disrupt production of full-length TOP2β/180. Gene-edited clones were identified and verified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing, respectively. Characterization of TOP2β/180 gene-edited clones, with one or all four TOP2β/180 alleles mutated, revealed partial or complete loss of TOP2β mRNA/protein, respectively. The loss of TOP2β/180 protein correlated with decreased (2-{4-[(7-chloro-2-quinoxalinyl)oxy]phenoxy}propionic acid)-induced DNA damage and partial resistance in growth inhibition assays. Partial resistance to mitoxantrone was also noted in the gene-edited clone with all four TOP2β/180 alleles modified. No cross-resistance to etoposide or mAMSA was noted in the gene-edited clones. Results demonstrated the role of TOP2β/180 in drug sensitivity/resistance in K562 cells and revealed differential paralog activity of TOP2-targeted agents. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Data indicated that CRISPR/Cas9 editing of the exon 19/intron 19 boundary in the TOP2β/180 gene to introduce a premature stop codon resulted in partial to complete disruption of TOP2β/180 expression in human leukemia (K562) cells depending on the number of edited alleles. Edited clones were partially resistant to mitoxantrone and XK469, while lacking resistance to etoposide and mAMSA. Results demonstrated the import of TOP2β/180 in drug sensitivity/resistance in K562 cells and revealed differential paralog activity of TOP2-targeted agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessika Carvajal-Moreno
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Xinyi Wang
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Victor A Hernandez
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Milon Mondal
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jack C Yalowich
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Terry S Elton
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mirzaie M, Gholizadeh E, Miettinen JJ, Ianevski F, Ruokoranta T, Saarela J, Manninen M, Miettinen S, Heckman CA, Jafari M. Designing patient-oriented combination therapies for acute myeloid leukemia based on efficacy/toxicity integration and bipartite network modeling. Oncogenesis 2024; 13:11. [PMID: 38429288 PMCID: PMC10907624 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-024-00510-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a heterogeneous and aggressive blood cancer, does not respond well to single-drug therapy. A combination of drugs is required to effectively treat this disease. Computational models are critical for combination therapy discovery due to the tens of thousands of two-drug combinations, even with approved drugs. While predicting synergistic drugs is the focus of current methods, few consider drug efficacy and potential toxicity, which are crucial for treatment success. To find effective new drug candidates, we constructed a bipartite network using patient-derived tumor samples and drugs. The network is based on drug-response screening and summarizes all treatment response heterogeneity as drug response weights. This bipartite network is then projected onto the drug part, resulting in the drug similarity network. Distinct drug clusters were identified using community detection methods, each targeting different biological processes and pathways as revealed by enrichment and pathway analysis of the drugs' protein targets. Four drugs with the highest efficacy and lowest toxicity from each cluster were selected and tested for drug sensitivity using cell viability assays on various samples. Results show that ruxolitinib-ulixertinib and sapanisertib-LY3009120 are the most effective combinations with the least toxicity and the best synergistic effect on blast cells. These findings lay the foundation for personalized and successful AML therapies, ultimately leading to the development of drug combinations that can be used alongside standard first-line AML treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Mirzaie
- Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elham Gholizadeh
- Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juho J Miettinen
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Filipp Ianevski
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tanja Ruokoranta
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Hematology, Helsinki University Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jani Saarela
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Susanna Miettinen
- Adult Stem Cell Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Tays Research Services, Wellbeing Services County of Pirkanmaa, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Caroline A Heckman
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland - FIMM, HiLIFE - Helsinki Institute of Life Science, iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Mohieddin Jafari
- Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Palmieri R, Paterno G, Mallegni F, Frenza F, De Bernardis I, Moretti F, Meddi E, Del Principe MI, Maurillo L, Venditti A, Buccisano F. Therapy-related Myeloid Neoplasms: Considerations for Patients' Clinical Evaluation. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2023; 15:e2023051. [PMID: 37705524 PMCID: PMC10497317 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2023.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapy-related myeloid neoplasms (t-MNs) encompass a specific sub-group of myeloid malignancies arising after exposure to radio/cytotoxic agents for the treatment of unrelated diseases. Such malignancies present unique features, including advanced age, high comorbidities burden, and unfavorable genetic profiles. All these features justify the need for a specific diagnostic work-up and dedicated treatment algorithms. However, as new classification systems recognize the unique clinical characteristics exhibited by t-MN patients, how to assess fitness status in this clinical setting is largely unexplored. Optimizing fitness assessment would be crucial in the management of t-MN patients, considering that factors usually contributing to a worse or better outcome (like age, comorbidities, and treatment history) are patient-specific. In the absence of specific tools for fitness assessment in this peculiar category of AML, the aim of this review is to describe all those factors related to patient, treatment, and disease that allow planning treatments with an optimal risk/benefit ratio.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Palmieri
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle (WA), USA
| | | | - Flavia Mallegni
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Frenza
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilenia De Bernardis
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Moretti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Meddi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Luca Maurillo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Adriano Venditti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Buccisano
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Tosic N, Marjanovic I, Lazic J. Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia: Insight into genetic landscape and novel targeted approaches. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115705. [PMID: 37532055 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a very heterogeneous hematological malignancy that accounts for approximately 20% of all pediatric leukemia cases. The outcome of pediatric AML has improved over the last decades, with overall survival rates reaching up to 70%. Still, AML is among the leading types of pediatric cancers by its high mortality rate. Modulation of standard therapy, like chemotherapy intensification, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and optimized supportive care, could only get this far, but for the significant improvement of the outcome in pediatric AML, development of novel targeted therapy approaches is necessary. In recent years the advances in genomic techniques have greatly expanded our knowledge of the AML biology, revealing molecular landscape and complexity of the disease, which in turn have led to the identification of novel therapeutic targets. This review provides a brief overview of the genetic landscape of pediatric AML, and how it's used for precise molecular characterization and risk stratification of the patients, and also for the development of effective targeted therapy. Furthermore, this review presents recent advances in molecular targeted therapy and immunotherapy with an emphasis on the therapeutic approaches with significant clinical benefits for pediatric AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasa Tosic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Laboratory for Molecular Biomedicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Irena Marjanovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Laboratory for Molecular Biomedicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Lazic
- University Children's Hospital, Department for Hematology and Oncology, Belgrade, Serbia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
DeRemer DL, Nguyen NK, Guha A, Ahmad FS, Cooper-DeHoff RM, Pepine CJ, Fradley MG, Gong Y. Racial and Ethnic Differences in Cardiac Surveillance Evaluation of Patients Treated With Anthracycline-Based Chemotherapy. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e027981. [PMID: 37158063 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.027981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Anthracyclines remain a key treatment for many malignancies but can increase the risk of heart failure or cardiomyopathy. Specific guidelines recommend echocardiography and serum cardiac biomarkers such as BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide) or NT-proBNP (N-terminal proBNP) evaluation before and 6 to 12 months after treatment. Our objective was to evaluate associations between racial and ethnic groups in cardiac surveillance of survivors of cancer after exposure to anthracyclines. Methods and Results Adult patients in the OneFlorida Consortium without prior cardiovascular disease who received at least 2 cycles of anthracyclines were included in the analysis. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs for receiving cardiac surveillance at baseline before anthracycline therapy, 6 months after, and 12 months after anthracycline exposure among different racial and ethnic groups. Among the entire cohort of 5430 patients, 63.4% had a baseline echocardiogram, with 22.3% receiving an echocardiogram at 6 months and 25% at 12 months. Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) patients had a lower likelihood of receiving a baseline echocardiogram than Non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients (OR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.63-0.88]; P=0.0006) or any baseline cardiac surveillance (OR, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.64-0.89]; P=0.001). Compared with NHW patients, Hispanic patients received significantly less cardiac surveillance at the 6-month (OR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.72-0.98]; P=0.03) and 12-month (OR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.74-0.98]; P=0.03) time points, respectively. Conclusions There were significant racial and ethnic differences in cardiac surveillance among survivors of cancer at baseline and following anthracycline-based treatment in NHB and Hispanic cohorts. Health care providers need to be cognizant of these social inequities and initiate efforts to ensure recommended cardiac surveillance occurs following anthracyclines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David L DeRemer
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Translational Research and Center for Pharmacogenomics and Precision Medicine, College of Pharmacy University of Florida Gainesville FL USA
- University of Florida Health Cancer Center Gainesville FL USA
| | - Nam K Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Translational Research and Center for Pharmacogenomics and Precision Medicine, College of Pharmacy University of Florida Gainesville FL USA
| | - Avirup Guha
- Cardio-Oncology Program, Georgia Cancer Center Medical College of Georgia at Augusta, University Augusta GA USA
| | - Faraz S Ahmad
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology Northwestern Memorial Hospital Chicago IL USA
| | - Rhonda M Cooper-DeHoff
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Translational Research and Center for Pharmacogenomics and Precision Medicine, College of Pharmacy University of Florida Gainesville FL USA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine University of Florida Gainesville FL USA
| | - Carl J Pepine
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine University of Florida Gainesville FL USA
| | - Michael G Fradley
- Cardio-Oncology Center of Excellence, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia PA USA
| | - Yan Gong
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Translational Research and Center for Pharmacogenomics and Precision Medicine, College of Pharmacy University of Florida Gainesville FL USA
- University of Florida Health Cancer Center Gainesville FL USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Gaobotse G, Venkataraman S, Brown PD, Masisi K, Kwape TE, Nkwe DO, Rantong G, Makhzoum A. The use of African medicinal plants in cancer management. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1122388. [PMID: 36865913 PMCID: PMC9971233 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1122388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the third leading cause of premature death in sub-Saharan Africa. Cervical cancer has the highest number of incidences in sub-Saharan Africa due to high HIV prevalence (70% of global cases) in African countries which is linked to increasing the risk of developing cervical cancer, and the continuous high risk of being infected with Human papillomavirus In 2020, the risk of dying from cancer amongst women was higher in Eastern Africa (11%) than it was in Northern America (7.4%). Plants continue to provide unlimited pharmacological bioactive compounds that are used to manage various illnesses, including cancer. By reviewing the literature, we provide an inventory of African plants with reported anticancer activity and evidence supporting their use in cancer management. In this review, we report 23 plants that have been used for cancer management in Africa, where the anticancer extracts are usually prepared from barks, fruits, leaves, roots, and stems of these plants. Extensive information is reported about the bioactive compounds present in these plants as well as their potential activities against various forms of cancer. However, information on the anticancer properties of other African medicinal plants is insufficient. Therefore, there is a need to isolate and evaluate the anticancer potential of bioactive compounds from other African medicinal plants. Further studies on these plants will allow the elucidation of their anticancer mechanisms of action and allow the identification of phytochemicals that are responsible for their anticancer properties. Overall, this review provides consolidated and extensive information not only on diverse medicinal plants of Africa but on the different types of cancer that these plants are used to manage and the diverse mechanisms and pathways that are involved during cancer alleviation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Goabaone Gaobotse
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana,*Correspondence: Goabaone Gaobotse, ; Kabo Masisi, ; Abdullah Makhzoum,
| | - Srividhya Venkataraman
- Virology Laboratory, Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Phenyo D. Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana
| | - Kabo Masisi
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana,*Correspondence: Goabaone Gaobotse, ; Kabo Masisi, ; Abdullah Makhzoum,
| | - Tebogo E. Kwape
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana
| | - David O. Nkwe
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana
| | - Gaolathe Rantong
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana
| | - Abdullah Makhzoum
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana,*Correspondence: Goabaone Gaobotse, ; Kabo Masisi, ; Abdullah Makhzoum,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Carvajal-Moreno J, Hernandez VA, Wang X, Li J, Yalowich JC, Elton TS. Effects of hsa-miR-9-3p and hsa-miR-9-5p on Topoisomerase II β Expression in Human Leukemia K562 Cells with Acquired Resistance to Etoposide. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 384:265-276. [PMID: 36410793 PMCID: PMC9875313 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA topoisomerase IIα (TOP2α/170; 170 kDa) and topoisomerase IIβ (TOP2β/180; 180 kDa) are targets for a number of anticancer drugs, whose clinical efficacy is attenuated by chemoresistance. Our laboratory selected for an etoposide-resistant K562 clonal subline designated K/VP.5. These cells exhibited decreased TOP2α/170 and TOP2β/180 expression. We previously demonstrated that a microRNA-9 (miR-9)-mediated posttranscriptional mechanism plays a role in drug resistance via reduced TOP2α/170 protein in K/VP.5 cells. Here, it is hypothesized that a similar miR-9 mechanism is responsible for decreased TOP2β/180 levels in K/VP.5 cells. Both miR-9-3p and miR-9-5p are overexpressed in K/VP.5 compared with K562 cells, demonstrated by microRNA (miRNA) sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of TOP2β/180 contains miRNA recognition elements (MRE) for both miRNAs. Cotransfection of K562 cells with a luciferase reporter plasmid harboring TOP2β/180 3'-UTR plus miR-9-3p or miR-9-5p mimics resulted in statistically significant decreased luciferase expression. miR-9-3p and miR-9-5p MRE mutations prevented this decrease, validating direct interaction between these miRNAs and TOP2β/180 mRNA. Transfection of K562 cells with miR-9-3p/5p mimics led to decreased TOP2β protein levels without a change in TOP2β/180 mRNA and resulted in reduced TOP2β-specific XK469-induced DNA damage. Conversely, K/VP.5 cells transfected with miR-9-3p/5p inhibitors led to increased TOP2β/180 protein without a change in TOP2β/180 mRNA and resulted in enhancement of XK469-induced DNA damage. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that TOP2β/180 mRNA is translationally repressed by miR-9-3p/5p, that these miRNAs play a role in acquired resistance to etoposide, and that they are potential targets for circumvention of resistance to TOP2-targeted agents. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Results presented here indicate that miR-9-3p and miR-9-5p play a role in acquired resistance to etoposide via decreased DNA topoisomerase IIβ 180 kDa protein levels. These findings contribute further information about and potential strategies for circumvention of drug resistance by modulation of microRNA levels. In addition, miR-9-3p and miR-9-5p overexpression in cancer chemoresistance may lead to future validation as biomarkers of responsiveness to DNA topoisomerase II-targeted therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessika Carvajal-Moreno
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology (J.C.-M., V.A.H., X.W., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.I.), College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Victor A Hernandez
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology (J.C.-M., V.A.H., X.W., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.I.), College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Xinyi Wang
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology (J.C.-M., V.A.H., X.W., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.I.), College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Junan Li
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology (J.C.-M., V.A.H., X.W., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.I.), College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jack C Yalowich
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology (J.C.-M., V.A.H., X.W., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.I.), College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Terry S Elton
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology (J.C.-M., V.A.H., X.W., J.C.Y., T.S.E.) and Division of Outcomes and Translational Science (J.I.), College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Podophyllotoxin and its derivatives: Potential anticancer agents of natural origin in cancer chemotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114145. [PMID: 36586242 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of plant secondary metabolites has gained considerable attention among clinicians in the prevention and treatment of cancer. A secondary metabolite isolated mainly from the roots and rhizomes of Podophyllum species (Berberidaceae) is aryltetralin lignan - podophyllotoxin (PTOX). The purpose of this review is to discuss the therapeutic properties of PTOX as an important anticancer compound of natural origin. The relevant information regarding the antitumor mechanisms of podophyllotoxin and its derivatives were collected and analyzed from scientific databases. The results of the analysis showed PTOX exhibits potent cytotoxic activity; however, it cannot be used in its pure form due to its toxicity and generation of many side effects. Therefore, it practically remains clinically unusable. Currently, high effort is focused on attempts to synthesize analogs of PTOX that have better properties for therapeutic use e.g. etoposide (VP-16), teniposide, etopophos. PTOX derivatives are used as anticancer drugs which are showing additional immunosuppressive, antiviral, antioxidant, hypolipemic, and anti-inflammatory effects. In this review, attention is paid to the high potential of the usefulness of in vitro cultures of P. peltatum which can be a valuable source of lignans, including PTOX. In conclusion, the preclinical pharmacological studies in vitro and in vivo confirm the anticancer and chemotherapeutic potential of PTOX and its derivatives. In the future, clinical studies on human subjects are needed to certify the antitumor effects and the anticancer mechanisms to be certified and analyzed in more detail and to validate the experimental pharmacological preclinical studies.
Collapse
|
10
|
Qi J, Zheng Y, Li B, Ai Y, Chen M, Zheng X. Pyridoxal hydrochloride thiosemicarbazones with copper ions inhibit cell division via Topo-I and Topo-IIɑ. J Inorg Biochem 2022; 232:111816. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2022.111816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
11
|
Mastrangelo S, Attina G, Triarico S, Romano A, Maurizi P, Ruggiero A. The DNA-topoisomerase Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy. BIOMEDICAL AND PHARMACOLOGY JOURNAL 2022; 15:553-562. [DOI: 10.13005/bpj/2396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
DNA-topoisomerases are ubiquitous enzymes essential for major cellular processes. In recent years, interest in DNA-topoisomerases has increased not only because of their crucial role in promoting DNA replication and transcription processes, but also because they are the target of numerous active ingredients. The possibility of exploiting for therapeutic purposes the blocking of the activity of these enzymes has led to the development of a new class of anticancer agents capable of inducing apoptosis of tumor cells following DNA damage and its failure to repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Mastrangelo
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.Gemelli IRCCS, Universita’ Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Attina
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.Gemelli IRCCS, Universita’ Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Triarico
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.Gemelli IRCCS, Universita’ Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Romano
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.Gemelli IRCCS, Universita’ Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Palma Maurizi
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.Gemelli IRCCS, Universita’ Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Ruggiero
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.Gemelli IRCCS, Universita’ Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Elton TS, Hernandez VA, Carvajal-Moreno J, Wang X, Ipinmoroti D, Yalowich JC. Intronic Polyadenylation in Acquired Cancer Drug Resistance Circumvented by Utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 with Homology-Directed Repair: The Tale of Human DNA Topoisomerase IIα. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133148. [PMID: 35804920 PMCID: PMC9265003 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary DNA topoisomerase IIα (170 kDa, TOP2α/170) resolves nucleic acid topological entanglements by generating transient double-strand DNA breaks. TOP2α inhibitors/poisons stabilize TOP2α-DNA covalent complexes resulting in persistent DNA damage and are frequently utilized to treat a variety of cancers. Acquired resistance to these chemotherapeutic agents is often associated with decreased TOP2α/170 expression levels. Studies have demonstrated that a reduction in TOP2α/170 results from a type of alternative polyadenylation designated intronic polyadenylation (IPA). As a consequence of IPA, variant TOP2α mRNA transcripts have been characterized that have resulted in the translation of C-terminal truncated TOP2α isoforms with altered biological activities. In this paper, an example is discussed where circumvention of acquired TOP2α-mediated drug resistance was achieved by utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 specific gene editing of an exon/intron boundary through homology directed repair (HDR) to reduce TOP2α IPA. These results illustrate the therapeutic potential of CRISPR/Cas9/HDR to impact drug resistance associated with aberrant IPA. Abstract Intronic polyadenylation (IPA) plays a critical role in malignant transformation, development, progression, and cancer chemoresistance by contributing to transcriptome/proteome alterations. DNA topoisomerase IIα (170 kDa, TOP2α/170) is an established clinical target for anticancer agents whose efficacy is compromised by drug resistance often associated with a reduction of nuclear TOP2α/170 levels. In leukemia cell lines with acquired resistance to TOP2α-targeted drugs and reduced TOP2α/170 expression, variant TOP2α mRNA transcripts have been reported due to IPA that resulted in the translation of C-terminal truncated isoforms with altered nuclear-cytoplasmic distribution or heterodimerization with wild-type TOP2α/170. This review provides an overview of the various mechanisms regulating pre-mRNA processing and alternative polyadenylation, as well as the utilization of CRISPR/Cas9 specific gene editing through homology directed repair (HDR) to decrease IPA when splice sites are intrinsically weak or potentially mutated. The specific case of TOP2α exon 19/intron 19 splice site editing is discussed in etoposide-resistant human leukemia K562 cells as a tractable strategy to circumvent acquired TOP2α-mediated drug resistance. This example supports the importance of aberrant IPA in acquired drug resistance to TOP2α-targeted drugs. In addition, these results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of CRISPR/Cas9/HDR to impact drug resistance associated with aberrant splicing/polyadenylation.
Collapse
|
13
|
Natural Polyphenols as Modulators of Etoposide Anti-Cancer Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126602. [PMID: 34202987 PMCID: PMC8235666 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds found in abundance in fruits and vegetables. Their health-promoting properties and their use in the prevention and treatment of many human diseases, including cancer, have been known for years. Many anti-cancer drugs are derived from these natural compounds. Etoposide, which is a semi-synthetic derivative of podophyllotoxin, a non-alkaloid lignan isolated from the dried roots and rhizomes of Podophyllum peltatum or Podophyllum emodi (Berberidaceae), is an example of such a compound. In this review, we present data on the effects of polyphenols on the anti-cancer activity of etoposide in in vitro and in vivo studies.
Collapse
|
14
|
In silico derived small molecules targeting the finger-finger interaction between the histone lysine methyltransferase NSD1 and Nizp1 repressor. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 18:4082-4092. [PMID: 33363704 PMCID: PMC7736721 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.11.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PHD fingers are small chromatin binding domains, that alone or in tandem work as versatile interaction platforms for diversified activities, ranging from the decoding of the modification status of histone tails to the specific recognition of non-histone proteins. They play a crucial role in their host protein as mutations thereof cause several human malignancies. Thus, PHD fingers are starting to be considered as valuable pharmacological targets. While inhibitors or chemical probes of the histone binding activity of PHD fingers are emerging, their druggability as non-histone interaction platform is still unexplored. In the current study, using a computational and experimental pipeline, we provide proof of concept that the tandem PHD finger of Nuclear receptor-binding SET (Su(var)3–9, Enhancer of zeste, Trithorax) domain protein 1 (PHDVC5HCHNSD1) is ligandable. Combining virtual screening of a small subset of the ZINC database (Zinc Drug Database, ZDD, 2924 molecules) to NMR binding assays and ITC measurements, we have identified Mitoxantrone dihydrochloride, Quinacrine dihydrochloride and Chloroquine diphosphate as the first molecules able to bind to PHDVC5HCHNSD1 and to reduce its documented interaction with the Zinc finger domain (C2HRNizp1) of the transcriptional repressor Nizp1 (NSD1-interacting Zn-finger protein). These results pave the way for the design of small molecules with improved effectiveness in inhibiting this finger-finger interaction.
Collapse
Key Words
- C2HRNizp1, C2HR finger domain of Nizp1
- NMR
- NMR, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
- NSD1
- NSD1, Nuclear receptor-binding SET (Su(var)3–9, Enhancer of zeste, Trithorax) domain protein 1
- Nizp1
- Nizp1, (NSD1-interacting Zn-finger protein)
- PHD finger
- PHD finger, Plant Homeodomain finger
- PHDVC5HCHNSD1, Fifth PHD and C5HCH tandem domain of NSD1
- Protein-protein interactions
- STD, saturation transfer difference
- VS, Virtual Screening
- Virtual screening
Collapse
|
15
|
Aberrant Activity of Histone-Lysine N-Methyltransferase 2 (KMT2) Complexes in Oncogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249340. [PMID: 33302406 PMCID: PMC7762615 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
KMT2 (histone-lysine N-methyltransferase subclass 2) complexes methylate lysine 4 on the histone H3 tail at gene promoters and gene enhancers and, thus, control the process of gene transcription. These complexes not only play an essential role in normal development but have also been described as involved in the aberrant growth of tissues. KMT2 mutations resulting from the rearrangements of the KMT2A (MLL1) gene at 11q23 are associated with pediatric mixed-lineage leukemias, and recent studies demonstrate that KMT2 genes are frequently mutated in many types of human cancers. Moreover, other components of the KMT2 complexes have been reported to contribute to oncogenesis. This review summarizes the recent advances in our knowledge of the role of KMT2 complexes in cell transformation. In addition, it discusses the therapeutic targeting of different components of the KMT2 complexes.
Collapse
|
16
|
Targeting LSD1 for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment. Pharmacol Res 2020; 164:105335. [PMID: 33285227 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Targeted therapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an effective strategy, but currently there are very limited therapeutic targets for AML treatment. Histone lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) is highly expressed in many cancers, impedes the differentiation of cancer cells, promotes the proliferation, metastasis and invasion of cancer cells, and is associated with poor prognosis. Targeting LSD1 has been recognized as a promising strategy for AML treatment in recent years. Based on these features, in the review, we discussed the main epigenetic drugs targeting LSD1 for AML therapy. Thus, this review focuses on the progress of LSD1 inhibitors in AML treatment, particularly those such as tranylcypromine (TCP), ORY-1001, GSK2879552, and IMG-7289 in clinical trials. These inhibitors provide novel scaffolds for designing new LSD1 inhibitors. Besides, combined therapies of LSD1 inhibitors with other drugs for AML treatment are also highlighted.
Collapse
|
17
|
Mei KC, Liao YP, Jiang J, Chiang M, Khazaieli M, Liu X, Wang X, Liu Q, Chang CH, Zhang X, Li J, Ji Y, Melano B, Telesca D, Xia T, Meng H, Nel AE. Liposomal Delivery of Mitoxantrone and a Cholesteryl Indoximod Prodrug Provides Effective Chemo-immunotherapy in Multiple Solid Tumors. ACS NANO 2020; 14:13343-13366. [PMID: 32940463 PMCID: PMC8023019 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c05194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
We developed a custom-designed liposome carrier for codelivery of a potent immunogenic cell death (ICD) stimulus plus an inhibitor of the indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO-1) pathway to establish a chemo-immunotherapy approach for solid tumors in syngeneic mice. The carrier was constructed by remote import of the anthraquinone chemotherapeutic agent, mitoxantrone (MTO), into the liposomes, which were further endowed with a cholesterol-conjugated indoximod (IND) prodrug in the lipid bilayer. For proof-of-principle testing, we used IV injection of the MTO/IND liposome in a CT26 colon cancer model to demonstrate the generation of a robust immune response, characterized by the appearance of ICD markers (CRT and HMGB-1) as well as evidence of cytotoxic cancer cell death, mediated by perforin and granzyme B. Noteworthy, the cytotoxic effects involved natural killer (NK) cell, which suggests a different type of ICD response. The immunotherapy response was significantly augmented by codelivery of the IND prodrug, which induced additional CRT expression, reduced number of Foxp3+ Treg, and increased perforin release, in addition to extending animal survival beyond the effect of an MTO-only liposome. The outcome reflects the improved pharmacokinetics of MTO delivery to the cancer site by the carrier. In light of the success in the CT26 model, we also assessed the platform efficacy in further breast cancer (EMT6 and 4T1) and renal cancer (RENCA) models, which overexpress IDO-1. Encapsulated MTO delivery was highly effective for inducing chemo-immunotherapy responses, with NK participation, in all tumor models. Moreover, the growth inhibitory effect of MTO was enhanced by IND codelivery in EMT6 and 4T1 tumors. All considered, our data support the use of encapsulated MTO delivery for chemo-immunotherapy, with the possibility to boost the immune response by codelivery of an IDO-1 pathway inhibitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Ching Mei
- Division of NanoMedicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Yu-Pei Liao
- Division of NanoMedicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Jinhong Jiang
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Michelle Chiang
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Mercedeh Khazaieli
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Xiangsheng Liu
- Division of NanoMedicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Xiang Wang
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Qi Liu
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Chong Hyun Chang
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Division of NanoMedicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
| | - Juan Li
- Division of NanoMedicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
| | - Ying Ji
- Division of NanoMedicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
| | - Brenda Melano
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Donatello Telesca
- Department of Biostatistics, University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
| | - Tian Xia
- Division of NanoMedicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Huan Meng
- Division of NanoMedicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
| | - Andre E. Nel
- Division of NanoMedicine, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
A promoter-driven assay for INSM1-associated signaling pathway in neuroblastoma. Cell Signal 2020; 76:109785. [PMID: 32966884 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aggressive form of neuroblastoma (NB) is a malignant childhood cancer derived from granule neuron precursors and sympatho-adrenal lineage with N-MYC amplification. An insulinoma associated-1 (INSM1) transcription factor has emerged as a NB biomarker that plays critical role in facilitating tumor cell growth and transformation. N-myc activates INSM1 in NB was discovered. In order to elucidate the signaling pathways associated with INSM1 expression and NB tumor cell growth, we developed an INSM1 promoter-driven luciferase assay for new drug discovery. Promoter-driven luciferase assay demonstrated high Z' factor (>0.7). Performance measures using signal-to-noise ratio, signal window, and Z' factor confirmed this assay is a robust screening method. A panel of FDA-approved oncology drugs set (147 compounds) was subjected to the INSM1 promoter-driven luciferase assay. The positive-hit compounds were validated for effects on cell viability and INSM1 expression. Screening a FDA-approved oncology drugs set revealed multiple inhibitors against various signaling pathways via suppression of INSM1 promoter activity. The positive-hit compounds consist of 9 signaling pathway inhibitors negatively regulates INSM1 expression and cell viability in NB. These inhibitors target DNA/RNA/protein synthesis, tubulin assembly, and histone deacetylase signaling pathways. The outcome of this assay indicates that the newly identified pathways could be critical for NB growth and transformation. This technology and the positive-hits of multiple pathways represent a promising option of identifying re-purposed FDA-approved drugs valuable for NB treatment in the context of a NB-specific marker, INSM1.
Collapse
|
19
|
BDA-366, a putative Bcl-2 BH4 domain antagonist, induces apoptosis independently of Bcl-2 in a variety of cancer cell models. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:769. [PMID: 32943617 PMCID: PMC7498462 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02944-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Several cancer cell types, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) upregulate antiapoptotic Bcl-2 to cope with oncogenic stress. BH3 mimetics targeting Bcl-2's hydrophobic cleft have been developed, including venetoclax as a promising anticancer precision medicine for treating CLL patients. Recently, BDA-366 was identified as a small molecule BH4-domain antagonist that could kill lung cancer and multiple myeloma cells. BDA-366 was proposed to switch Bcl-2 from an antiapoptotic into a proapoptotic protein, thereby activating Bax and inducing apoptosis. Here, we scrutinized the therapeutic potential and mechanism of action of BDA-366 in CLL and DLBCL. Although BDA-366 displayed selective toxicity against both cell types, the BDA-366-induced cell death did not correlate with Bcl-2-protein levels and also occurred in the absence of Bcl-2. Moreover, although BDA-366 provoked Bax activation, it did neither directly activate Bax nor switch Bcl-2 into a Bax-activating protein in in vitro Bax/liposome assays. Instead, in primary CLL cells and DLBCL cell lines, BDA-366 inhibited the activity of the PI3K/AKT pathway, resulted in Bcl-2 dephosphorylation and reduced Mcl-1-protein levels without affecting the levels of Bcl-2 or Bcl-xL. Hence, our work challenges the current view that BDA-366 is a BH4-domain antagonist of Bcl-2 that turns Bcl-2 into a pro-apoptotic protein. Rather, our results indicate that other mechanisms beyond switching Bcl-2 conformation underlie BDA-366's cell-death properties that may implicate Mcl-1 downregulation and/or Bcl-2 dephosphorylation.
Collapse
|
20
|
Alavi M, Varma RS. Overview of novel strategies for the delivery of anthracyclines to cancer cells by liposomal and polymeric nanoformulations. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 164:2197-2203. [PMID: 32763404 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.07.274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Severe side effects and the rapid emergence of drug resistance in cancer cells are major problems in the chemotherapy utilizing anthracyclines, with a difference between cellular response at nano and micro scale levels. Understanding this situation is more complicated issue to attain efficient targeted formulations with low unexpected toxicity in patients. On nano-scale level, considering properties of nano-bio interaction in all relevant parts of the body may offer clue for suitable formulations. Four main strategies comprising PEGylation, surface charging, targeting, and stimuli responsiveness can be deployed to improve the liposomal and polymeric nanoformulations that can efficiently deliver common anthracyclines namely daunorubicin (DAU), doxorubicin (DOX), idarubicin (IDA), and epirubicin (EPI). Herein, the advances and challenges pertaining to the formulations of these anticancer drugs via liposomal and polymeric nanoformulations, are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Alavi
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Rajender S Varma
- Regional Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials, Palacky University, Šlechtitelů 27, 783 71 Olomouc, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Scott AT, Weitz M, Breheny PJ, Ear PH, Darbro B, Brown BJ, Braun TA, Li G, Umesalma S, Kaemmer CA, Maharjan CK, Quelle DE, Bellizzi AM, Chandrasekharan C, Dillon JS, O'Dorisio TM, Howe JR. Gene Expression Signatures Identify Novel Therapeutics for Metastatic Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 26:2011-2021. [PMID: 31937620 PMCID: PMC7165057 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-19-2884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) are uncommon malignancies noted for their propensity to metastasize and comparatively favorable prognosis. Although both the treatment options and clinical outcomes have improved in the past decades, most patients will die of metastatic disease. New systemic therapies are needed. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Tissues were obtained from 43 patients with well-differentiated pNETs undergoing surgery. Gene expression was compared between primary tumors versus liver and lymph node metastases using RNA-Seq. Genes that were selectively elevated at only one metastatic site were filtered out to reduce tissue-specific effects. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) and the Connectivity Map (CMap) identified drugs likely to antagonize metastasis-specific targets. The biological activity of top identified agents was tested in vitro using two pNET cell lines (BON-1 and QGP-1). RESULTS A total of 902 genes were differentially expressed in pNET metastases compared with primary tumors, 626 of which remained in the common metastatic profile after filtering. Analysis with IPA and CMap revealed altered activity of factors involved in survival and proliferation, and identified drugs targeting those pathways, including inhibitors of mTOR, PI3K, MEK, TOP2A, protein kinase C, NF-kB, cyclin-dependent kinase, and histone deacetylase. Inhibitors of MEK and TOP2A were consistently the most active compounds. CONCLUSIONS We employed a complementary bioinformatics approach to identify novel therapeutics for pNETs by analyzing gene expression in metastatic tumors. The potential utility of these drugs was confirmed by in vitro cytotoxicity assays, suggesting drugs targeting MEK and TOP2A may be highly efficacious against metastatic pNETs. This is a promising strategy for discovering more effective treatments for patients with pNETs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron T Scott
- Department of Surgery, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Michelle Weitz
- College of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Patrick J Breheny
- College of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Po Hien Ear
- Department of Surgery, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Benjamin Darbro
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Bart J Brown
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Terry A Braun
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Guiying Li
- Department of Surgery, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Shaikamjad Umesalma
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Courtney A Kaemmer
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Chandra K Maharjan
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Dawn E Quelle
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Department of Pathology, Carver College of Medicine University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Andrew M Bellizzi
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Department of Pathology, Carver College of Medicine University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Chandrikha Chandrasekharan
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Joseph S Dillon
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Thomas M O'Dorisio
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - James R Howe
- Department of Surgery, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Yi M, Li T, Qin S, Yu S, Chu Q, Li A, Wu K. Identifying Tumorigenesis and Prognosis-Related Genes of Lung Adenocarcinoma: Based on Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:4169691. [PMID: 32149105 PMCID: PMC7035528 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4169691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Lung adenocarcinoma is the most frequently diagnosed subtype of nonsmall cell lung cancer. The molecular mechanisms of the initiation and progression of lung adenocarcinoma remain to be further determined. This study aimed to screen genes related to the progression of lung adenocarcinoma. By weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), we constructed a free-scale gene coexpression network to evaluate the correlations between multiple gene sets and patients' clinical traits, then further identify predictive biomarkers. GSE11969 was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database which contained the gene expression data of 90 lung adenocarcinoma patients. Data of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were employed as the validation cohort. After the average linkage hierarchical clustering, a total of 9 modules were generated. In the clinical significant module (R = 0.44, P < 0.0001), we identified 29 network hub genes. Subsequent verification in the TCGA database showed that 11 hub genes (ANLN, CDCA5, FLJ21924, LMNB1, MAD2L1, RACGAP1, RFC4, SNRPD1, TOP2A, TTK, and ZWINT) were significantly associated with poor survival data of lung adenocarcinomas. Besides, the results of receiver operating characteristic curves indicated that the mRNA levels of this group of genes exhibited high specificity and sensitivity to distinguish malignant lesions from nonmalignant tissues. Apart from mRNA levels, we found that the protein abundances of these 11 genes were remarkably upregulated in lung adenocarcinomas compared with normal tissues. In conclusion, by the WGCNA method, a panel of 11 genes were identified as predictive biomarkers for tumorigenesis and poor prognosis of lung adenocarcinomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yi
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Tianye Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Shuang Qin
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shengnan Yu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Qian Chu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Anping Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kongming Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Elton TS, Ozer HG, Yalowich JC. Effects of DNA topoisomerase IIα splice variants on acquired drug resistance. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2020; 3:161-170. [PMID: 32566920 PMCID: PMC7304410 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2019.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
DNA topoisomerase IIα (170 kDa, TOP2α/170) induces transient DNA double-strand breaks in proliferating cells to resolve DNA topological entanglements during chromosome condensation, replication, and segregation. Therefore, TOP2α/170 is a prominent target for anticancer drugs whose clinical efficacy is often compromised due to chemoresistance. Although many resistance mechanisms have been defined, acquired resistance of human cancer cell lines to TOP2α interfacial inhibitors/poisons is frequently associated with a reduction of Top2α/170 expression levels. Recent studies by our laboratory, in conjunction with earlier findings by other investigators, support the hypothesis that a major mechanism of acquired resistance to TOP2α-targeted drugs is due to alternative RNA processing/splicing. Specifically, several TOP2α mRNA splice variants have been reported which retain introns and are translated into truncated TOP2α isoforms lacking nuclear localization sequences and subsequent dysregulated nuclear-cytoplasmic disposition. In addition, intron retention can lead to truncated isoforms that lack both nuclear localization sequences and the active site tyrosine (Tyr805) necessary for forming enzyme-DNA covalent complexes and inducing DNA damage in the presence of TOP2α-targeted drugs. Ultimately, these truncated TOP2α isoforms result in decreased drug activity against TOP2α in the nucleus and manifest drug resistance. Therefore, the complete characterization of the mechanism(s) regulating the alternative RNA processing of TOP2α pre-mRNA may result in new strategies to circumvent acquired drug resistance. Additionally, novel TOP2α splice variants and truncated TOP2α isoforms may be useful as biomarkers for drug resistance, prognosis, and/or direct future TOP2α-targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terry S Elton
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Hatice Gulcin Ozer
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jack C Yalowich
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ahadi H, Emami S. Modification of 7-piperazinylquinolone antibacterials to promising anticancer lead compounds: Synthesis and in vitro studies. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 187:111970. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
|