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Sirico M, Jacobs F, Molinelli C, Nader-Marta G, Debien V, Dewhurst HF, Palleschi M, Merloni F, Gianni C, De Giorgi U, de Azambuja E. Navigating the complexity of PI3K/AKT pathway in HER-2 negative breast cancer: biomarkers and beyond. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 200:104404. [PMID: 38815877 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The results of the SOLAR-1 and CAPItello-291, highlight the benefit of the ɑ-selective phosphoinositide 3-Kinase Pathway inhibitor (PI3Ki) alpelisib and the AKT inhibitor (AKTi) capivasertib in patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2)- negative metastatic breast cancer (mBC) that have PIK3CA/AKT1/PTEN tumour alterations. Although effective, these drugs are associated with significant toxicities, which often limit their use, particularly in frail patients. Following the recent incorporation of these agents into clinical practice, and with many others currently in development, significant challenges have emerged, particularly those regarding biomarkers for patient selection. This review will discuss biomarkers of response and their resistance to PI3K/AKT inhibitors (PI3K/AKTis) in HR+/HER- BC in early and advanced settings to ascertain which populations will most benefit from these drugs. Of the biomarkers that were analysed, such as PIK3CA, AKT, PTEN mutations, insulin levels, 18 F-FDG-PET/TC, only the PIK3CA-mutations (PIK3CA-mut) and the AKT pathway alterations seem to have a predictive value for treatments with alpelisib and capivasertib. However, due to the retrospective and exploratory nature of the study, the data did not provide conclusive results. In addition, the different methods used to detect PIK3CA/AKT1/PTEN alterations underline the fact that the optimal diagnostic companion has yet to be established. We have summarised the clinical data on the approved and discontinued agents targeting this pathway and have assessed the drugs development, successes, and failures. Finally, because of tumour heterogeneity, we emphasise the importance of reassessing the mutational status of PI3KCA in both metastatic tissue and blood at the time of disease progression to better tailor treatment for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sirico
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy.
| | - F Jacobs
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Humanitas Cancer Center, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Early Phase Trials Unit Institut Bergonié Bordeaux, France
| | - C Molinelli
- Early Phase Trials Unit Institut Bergonié Bordeaux, France; Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy; Department of Medical Oncology, U.O. Clinical di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - V Debien
- Early Phase Trials Unit Institut Bergonié Bordeaux, France
| | - H Faith Dewhurst
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - M Palleschi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - F Merloni
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - C Gianni
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - U De Giorgi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
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Salaün H, Djerroudi L, Haik L, Schnitzler A, Bataillon G, Deniziaut G, Bièche I, Vincent‐Salomon A, Debled M, Cottu P. The prognosis of patients treated with everolimus for advanced ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer is driven by molecular features. J Pathol Clin Res 2024; 10:e12372. [PMID: 38563252 PMCID: PMC10985771 DOI: 10.1002/2056-4538.12372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Everolimus is widely used in patients with advanced ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. We looked at alterations in the PIK3CA/AKT/mTOR pathway in a multicenter cohort as potential biomarkers of efficacy. Patients with advanced ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer treated with everolimus and endocrine therapy between 2012 and 2014 in two cancer centers were included. Targeted sequencing examined mutations in PIK3CA, ESR1, and AKT1 genes. An immunochemical analysis was conducted to evaluate expression of PTEN, INPP4B, STK11, p4EBP1, and pS6. We analyzed 71 patients (44 primary tumors; 27 metastatic tissues). Median age was 63 years [58-69]. All patients had heavily pretreated advanced disease. A mutation in the PIK3CA pathway was observed in 32 samples (PIK3CA exons 10 and 21 and AKT1 exon 4 in 15.5%, 24.0%, and 5.6% of samples), and in ESR1 in 5 samples (7.0%), respectively. Most samples showed cytoplasmic expression of the PIK3CA pathway proteins. Progression-free survival was longer in patients with a pS6 or p4EBP1 histoscore ≥ median value (6.6 versus 3.7 months, p = 0.037), and in patients with a PTEN histoscore ≤ median value (7.1 versus 5.3 months, p = 0.02). Overall survival was longer in patients with pS6 ≥ 3rd quartile (27.6 versus 19.3 months, p = 0.038) and in patients with any mutation in the PIK3CA/AKT/mTOR pathway (27.6 versus 19.3 months, p = 0.011). The prognosis of patients treated with everolimus for advanced ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer appears primarily driven by molecular features associated with the activation of the PIK3CA/AKT/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Salaün
- Department of Medical OncologyInstitut CurieParisFrance
| | - Lounes Djerroudi
- Department of Pathology‐Genetics‐ImmunologyInstitut CurieParisFrance
| | - Laura Haik
- Department of Medical OncologyInstitut BergoniéBordeauxFrance
| | - Anne Schnitzler
- Department of Pathology‐Genetics‐ImmunologyInstitut CurieParisFrance
| | - Guillaume Bataillon
- Department of Pathology‐Genetics‐ImmunologyInstitut CurieParisFrance
- Present address:
Department of PathologyIUCT OncopoleToulouseFrance
| | - Gabrielle Deniziaut
- Department of Pathology‐Genetics‐ImmunologyInstitut CurieParisFrance
- Present address:
Department of PathologyCHU Pitié‐SalpêtrièreParisFrance
| | - Ivan Bièche
- Department of Pathology‐Genetics‐ImmunologyInstitut CurieParisFrance
- Paris‐Cité UniversityParisFrance
| | - Anne Vincent‐Salomon
- Department of Pathology‐Genetics‐ImmunologyInstitut CurieParisFrance
- PSL Research UniversityParisFrance
| | - Marc Debled
- Department of Medical OncologyInstitut BergoniéBordeauxFrance
| | - Paul Cottu
- Department of Medical OncologyInstitut CurieParisFrance
- Paris‐Cité UniversityParisFrance
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Vanacker H, Treilleux I, Schiffler C, Bieche I, Campone M, Patsouris A, Arnedos M, Cottu PH, Jacquin JP, Dalenc F, Pinton A, Servant N, Attignon V, Rouleau E, Morel A, Legrand F, Jimenez M, Andre F, Bachelot T. p4EBP1 staining predicts outcome in ER-positive endocrine-resistant metastatic breast cancer patients treated with everolimus and exemestane. Br J Cancer 2024; 130:613-619. [PMID: 38182687 PMCID: PMC10876520 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02549-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To identify patients most likely to respond to everolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, a prospective biomarker study was conducted in hormone receptor-positive endocrine-resistant metastatic breast cancer patients treated with exemestane-everolimus therapy. METHODS Metastatic tumor biopsies were processed for immunohistochemical staining (p4EBP1, PTEN, pAKT, LKB1, and pS6K). ESR1, PIK3CA and AKT1 gene mutations were detected by NGS. The primary endpoint was the association between the p4EBP1 expression and clinical benefit rate (CBR) at 6 months of everolimus plus exemestane treatment. RESULTS Of 150 patients included, 107 were evaluable for the primary endpoint. p4EBP1 staining above the median (Allred score ≥6) was associated with a higher CBR at 6 months (62% versus 40% in high-p4EBP1 versus low-p4EBP1, χ2 test, p = 0.026) and a longer progression-free survival (PFS) (median PFS of 9.2 versus 5.8 months in high-p4EBP1 versus low-p4EBP1; p = 0.02). When tested with other biomarkers, only p4EBP1 remained a significant predictive marker of PFS in multivariate analysis (hazard ratio, 0.591; p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS This study identified a subset of patients with hormone receptor-positive endocrine-resistant metastatic breast cancer and poor outcome who would derive less benefit from everolimus and exemestane. p4EBP1 may be a useful predictive biomarker in routine clinical practice. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02444390.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mario Campone
- Institut de cancérologie de l'ouest Pays de Loire Nantes-Angers, Saint-Herblain, France
| | - Anne Patsouris
- Institut de cancérologie de l'ouest Pays de Loire Nantes-Angers, Saint-Herblain, France
| | | | | | | | - Florence Dalenc
- ICR, Institut Universitaire du Cancer de Toulouse, Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Alain Morel
- Institut de cancérologie de l'ouest Pays de Loire Nantes-Angers, Saint-Herblain, France
- Univ Angers, Nantes Université, Inserm, CNRS, CRCI2NA, SFR ICAT, F-49000, Angers, France
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Yan C, Gao R, Gao C, Hong K, Cheng M, Liu X, Zhang Q, Zhang J. FDXR drives primary and endocrine-resistant tumor cell growth in ER+ breast cancer via CPT1A-mediated fatty acid oxidation. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1105117. [PMID: 37207154 PMCID: PMC10189134 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1105117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The majority of breast cancers (BCs) expressing estrogen receptor (ER) have shown endocrine resistance. Our previous study demonstrated that ferredoxin reductase (FDXR) promoted mitochondrial function and ER+ breast tumorigenesis. But the underlying mechanism is not clear. Methods Liquid chromatography (LC) tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS)-based metabolite profiling was utilized to reveal the metabolites regulated by FDXR. RNA microarray was utilized to determine the potential downstream targets of FDXR. Seahorse XF24 analyzer was performed to analyze the FAO-mediated oxygen consumption rate (OCR). Q-PCR and western blotting assays were used to measure expression levels of FDXR and CPT1A. MTS, 2D colony formation and anchorage-independent growth assays were used to evaluate the effects of FDXR or drug treatments on tumor cell growth of primary or endocrine-resistant breast cancer cells. Results We found that depletion of FDXR inhibited fatty acid oxidation (FAO) by suppressing CPT1A expression. Endocrine treatment increased the expression levels of both FDXR and CPT1A. Further, we showed that depletion of FDXR or FAO inhibitor etomoxir treatment reduced primary and endocrine-resistant breast cancer cell growth. Therapeutically, combining endocrine therapy with FAO inhibitor etomoxir synergistically inhibits primary and endocrine-resistant breast cancer cell growth. Discussion We reveal that the FDXR-CPT1A-FAO signaling axis is essential for primary and endocrine-resistant breast cancer cell growth, thus providing a potential combinatory therapy against endocrine resistance in ER+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaojun Yan
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ronghui Gao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chuan Gao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Hong
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Meng Cheng
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Xiaojing Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Jing Zhang, ; Qing Zhang,
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Zhang, ; Qing Zhang,
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Wang J, Han Y, Wang J, Li Q, Xu B. Endocrine Therapy-Based Strategies for Metastatic Breast Cancer with Different Endocrine Sensitivity Statuses: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246100. [PMID: 36551586 PMCID: PMC9776369 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Novel endocrine therapies (ETs) and targeted therapeutic regimens have been developed to dramatically improve the outcome of hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/HER2-negative (HER2-) metastatic breast cancer (mBC). METHODS We performed a systematic search with a predefined search strategy in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL databases to perform a network meta-analysis and evaluate the relative efficacies of ET-based treatment regimens in HR+/HER2- mBC patients with different endocrine sensitivity statuses. The study was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42021235570). RESULTS A total of 47 trials (20,267 patients) were included. Analysis of progression-free survival (PFS) in endocrine therapy-sensitive (ETS) patients revealed cyclin-dependent kinases 4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) + fulvestrant 500 mg (Ful 500) (random effect (RE): hazard ratio (HR), 0.46; 95% credibility interval (CrI), 0.27-0.78; surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA), 0.93; fixed effect (FE): HR, 0.48; 95% CrI, 0.40-0.58; SUCRA, 0.99) to be the best therapy followed by CDK4/6i + aromatase inhibitors (AIs) (RE: HR, 0.53; 95% CrI, 0.40-0.72; SUCRA, 0.86; FE: HR, 0.54; 95% CrI, 0.48-0.61; SUCRA, 0.91). Chemotherapy followed by CDK4/6i + Ful 500 appears to be the most effective option for the endocrine therapy-resistant (ETR) group. Analysis of overall survival revealed CDK4/6i + Ful 500 (SUCRA: 0.99) and AKTi + Ful 500 (SUCRA: 0.87) to be the first-rank regimen for the ETS group and ETR groups, respectively. CONCLUSION Our comprehensive analysis suggests that CDK4/6i combined with ETs may be the best treatment option in terms of PFS for ETS patients and chemotherapy for ETR patients with HR+/HER2- mBC. Different endocrine sensitivity statuses required various optimal treatment strategies, which may provide guidance for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yiqun Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Jiayu Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Binghe Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-0108-7788826
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Verret B, Bottosso M, Hervais S, Pistilli B. The Molecular Predictive and Prognostic Biomarkers in Metastatic Breast Cancer: The Contribution of Molecular Profiling. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4203. [PMID: 36077738 PMCID: PMC9454488 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The past decade was marked by several important studies deciphering the molecular landscape of metastatic breast cancer. Although the initial goal of these studies was to find driver oncogenic events to explain cancer progression and metastatic spreading, they have also permitted the identification of several molecular alterations associated with treatment response or resistance. Herein, we review validated (PI3KCA, ESR1, MSI, NTRK translocation) and emergent molecular biomarkers (ERBB2, AKT, PTEN, HRR gene, CD274 amplification RB1, NF1, mutational process) in metastatic breast cancer, on the bases of the largest molecular profiling studies. These biomarkers will be classed according the level of evidence and, if possible, the ESCAT (ESMO) classification. Finally, we will provide some perspective on development in clinical practice for the main biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Verret
- Medical Oncology Department, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94800 Villejuif, France
- INSERM Unit U981, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94805 Villejuif, France
| | - Michele Bottosso
- INSERM Unit U981, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94805 Villejuif, France
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy
| | - Sofia Hervais
- INSERM Unit U981, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94805 Villejuif, France
| | - Barbara Pistilli
- Medical Oncology Department, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94800 Villejuif, France
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Predictive biomarkers for molecularly targeted therapies and immunotherapies in breast cancer. Arch Pharm Res 2022; 45:597-617. [PMID: 35982262 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-022-01402-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Globally, breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women. Substantial efforts have been made to develop novel therapies, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies, for patients with breast cancer who do not respond to standard therapies. Consequently, new targeted therapies, such as cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitors, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitor, and antibody-drug conjugates targeting human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 or trophoblast cell surface antigen-2, and immune checkpoint inhibitor targeting programmed cell death-1, have been developed and are now in clinical use. However, only some patients have benefited from these novel therapies; therefore, the identification and validation of reliable or more accurate biomarkers for predicting responses to these agents remain a major challenge. This review summarizes the currently available predictive biomarkers for breast cancer and describes recent efforts undertaken to identify potential predictive markers for molecularly targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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An J, Oh M, Kim SY, Oh YJ, Oh B, Oh JH, Kim W, Jung JH, Kim HI, Kim JS, Sung CO, Shim JH. PET-Based Radiogenomics Supports mTOR Pathway Targeting for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:1821-1831. [PMID: 35191466 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-3208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This work aimed to explore in depth the genomic and molecular underpinnings of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with increased 2[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (FDG) uptake in PET and to identify therapeutic targets based on this imaging-genomic surrogate. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We used RNA sequencing and whole-exome sequencing data obtained from 117 patients with HCC who underwent hepatic resection with preoperative FDG-PET/CT imaging as a discovery cohort. The primary radiogenomic results were validated with transcriptomes from a second cohort of 81 patients with more advanced tumors. All patients were allocated to an FDG-avid or FDG-non-avid group according to the PET findings. We also screened potential drug candidates targeting FDG-avid HCCs in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS High FDG avidity conferred worse recurrence-free survival after HCC resection. Whole transcriptome analysis revealed upregulation of mTOR pathway signals in the FDG-avid tumors, together with higher abundance of associated mutations. These clinical and genomic findings were replicated in the validation set. A molecular signature of FDG-avid HCCs identified in the discovery set consistently predicted poor prognoses in the public-access datasets of two cohorts. Treatment with an mTOR inhibitor resulted in decreased FDG uptake followed by effective tumor control in both the hyperglycolytic HCC cell lines and xenograft mouse models. CONCLUSIONS Our PET-based radiogenomic analysis indicates that mTOR pathway genes are markedly activated and altered in HCCs with high FDG retention. This nuclear imaging biomarker may stimulate umbrella trials and tailored treatments in precision care of patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun An
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Guri, Gyeonggi, Republic of Korea
| | - Minyoung Oh
- Nuclear Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seog-Young Kim
- Convergence Medicine Research Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoo-Jin Oh
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bora Oh
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hye Oh
- Center for Cancer Genome Discovery, Asan Institute for Life Science, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonkyung Kim
- Center for Cancer Genome Discovery, Asan Institute for Life Science, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hwa Jung
- Convergence Medicine Research Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha Il Kim
- Gastroenterology, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Seung Kim
- Nuclear Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Ohk Sung
- Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju Hyun Shim
- Asan Liver Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Gastroenterology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Skolariki A, D’Costa J, Little M, Lord S. Role of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in mediating endocrine resistance: concept to clinic. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2022; 3:172-199. [PMID: 36046843 PMCID: PMC9400772 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2022.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of breast cancers express the estrogen receptor (ER) and for this group of patients, endocrine therapy is the cornerstone of systemic treatment. However, drug resistance is common and a focus for breast cancer preclinical and clinical research. Over the past 2 decades, the PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis has emerged as an important driver of treatment failure, and inhibitors of mTOR and PI3K are now licensed for the treatment of women with advanced ER-positive breast cancer who have relapsed on first-line hormonal therapy. This review presents the preclinical and clinical data that led to this new treatment paradigm and discusses future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aglaia Skolariki
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, OX3 7LE Oxford, UK
| | - Jamie D’Costa
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, OX3 7LE Oxford, UK
| | - Martin Little
- Department of Oncology, Churchill Hospital, OX3 7LE Oxford, UK
| | - Simon Lord
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, OX3 7LE Oxford, UK
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Voutsadakis IA. Biomarkers of everolimus efficacy in breast cancer therapy. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2022; 28:945-959. [PMID: 35018844 DOI: 10.1177/10781552211073673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Everolimus is an inhibitor of serine/ threonine kinase mTOR. The drug is approved for the treatment of metastatic ER positive, HER2 negative breast cancers and benefits a subset of patients with these breast cancers in combination with hormonal therapies. Despite extensive efforts, no additional predictive biomarkers to guide therapeutic decisions for everolimus have been introduced in clinical practice. DATA SOURCES This paper discusses predictive biomarkers for everolimus efficacy in breast cancer. A search of the medline and web of science databases was performed using the words "everolimus" and "biomarkers". References of retrieved articles were manually scanned for additional relevant articles. DATA SUMMARY Everolimus benefits a subset of patients with metastatic ER positive, HER2 negative breast cancers in combination with hormonal therapies. Despite extensive efforts no additional predictive biomarkers to guide therapeutic decisions for everolimus therapy have been confirmed for use in clinical practice. However, promising biomarker leads for everolimus efficacy in breast cancer have been suggested and include expression of proteins in the mTOR pathway in ER positive, HER2 negative breast cancers. In HER2 positive cancers PIK3CA mutations, and PTEN expression loss are prognostic. Other clinical predictive biomarkers with more limited data include characteristics derived from whole genome sequencing, subsets of circulating leukocytes and changes in Standardized Uptake Values (SUV) of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans. CONCLUSIONS Putative predictive biomarkers for everolimus efficacy in breast cancer patients, both genomic and clinical, deserve further study and could lead to a better selection of responsive patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A Voutsadakis
- Algoma District Cancer Program, 10066Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, and Section of Internal Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
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He Y, de Araújo Júnior RF, Cruz LJ, Eich C. Functionalized Nanoparticles Targeting Tumor-Associated Macrophages as Cancer Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1670. [PMID: 34683963 PMCID: PMC8540805 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a central role in regulating antitumor immune responses. As an important part of the TME, alternatively activated type 2 (M2) macrophages drive the development of primary and secondary tumors by promoting tumor cell proliferation, tumor angiogenesis, extracellular matrix remodeling and overall immunosuppression. Immunotherapy approaches targeting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in order to reduce the immunosuppressive state in the TME have received great attention. Although these methods hold great potential for the treatment of several cancers, they also face some limitations, such as the fast degradation rate of drugs and drug-induced cytotoxicity of organs and tissues. Nanomedicine formulations that prevent TAM signaling and recruitment to the TME or deplete M2 TAMs to reduce tumor growth and metastasis represent encouraging novel strategies in cancer therapy. They allow the specific delivery of antitumor drugs to the tumor area, thereby reducing side effects associated with systemic application. In this review, we give an overview of TAM biology and the current state of nanomedicines that target M2 macrophages in the course of cancer immunotherapy, with a specific focus on nanoparticles (NPs). We summarize how different types of NPs target M2 TAMs, and how the physicochemical properties of NPs (size, shape, charge and targeting ligands) influence NP uptake by TAMs in vitro and in vivo in the TME. Furthermore, we provide a comparative analysis of passive and active NP-based TAM-targeting strategies and discuss their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan He
- Translational Nanobiomaterials and Imaging (TNI) Group, Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Y.H.); (R.F.d.A.J.)
| | - Raimundo Fernandes de Araújo Júnior
- Translational Nanobiomaterials and Imaging (TNI) Group, Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Y.H.); (R.F.d.A.J.)
- Postgraduate Program in Health Science, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal 59064-720, Brazil
- Cancer and Inflammation Research Laboratory (LAICI), Postgraduate Program in Functional and Structural Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal 59064-720, Brazil
- Percuros B.V., 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Luis J. Cruz
- Translational Nanobiomaterials and Imaging (TNI) Group, Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Y.H.); (R.F.d.A.J.)
| | - Christina Eich
- Translational Nanobiomaterials and Imaging (TNI) Group, Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Y.H.); (R.F.d.A.J.)
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Abstract
STK11 encodes for the protein liver kinase B1, a serine/threonine kinase which is involved in a number of physiological processes including regulation of cellular metabolism, cell polarity and the DNA damage response. It acts as a tumour suppressor via multiple mechanisms, most classically through AMP-activated protein kinase-mediated inhibition of the mammalian target of rapamycin signalling pathway. Germline loss-of-function mutations in STK11 give rise to Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, which is associated with hamartomatous polyps of the gastrointestinal tract, mucocutaneous pigmentation and a substantially increased lifetime risk of many cancers. In the sporadic setting, STK11 mutations are commonly seen in a subset of adenocarcinomas of the lung in addition to a number of other tumours occurring at various sites. Mutations in STK11 have been associated with worse prognoses across a range of malignancies and may be a predictor of poor response to immunotherapy in a subset of lung cancers, though further studies are needed before the presence of STK11 mutations can be implemented as a routine clinical biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman E Zyla
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elan Hahn
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Anatomic Pathology, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anjelica Hodgson
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,Anatomic Pathology, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Crucitta S, Cucchiara F, Sciandra F, Cerbioni A, Diodati L, Rafaniello C, Capuano A, Fontana A, Fogli S, Danesi R, Re MD. Pharmacological Basis of Breast Cancer Resistance to Therapies - An Overview. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 22:760-774. [PMID: 34348634 DOI: 10.2174/1871520621666210804100547] [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: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a molecular heterogeneous disease and often patients with similar clinico-pathological characteristics may display different response to treatment. Cellular processes, including uncontrolled cell-cycle, constitutive activation of signalling pathways parallel to or downstream of HER2 and alterations in DNA-repair mechanisms are the main features altered in the tumor. These cellular processes play significant roles in the emergence of therapy resistance. The introduction of target therapies as well as immunotherapies has improved the management of breast cancer. Furthermore, several therapeutic options are available to overcome resistance and physicians could overcome the challenge of resistant BC using combinatorial drug strategies and incorporating novel biomarkers. Molecular profiling promises to help in refine personalized treatment decisions and catalyse the development of further strategies when resistances inevitably occur. The search for biological explanations for treatment failure helps to clarify the phenomenon and allows to incorporate new biomarkers into clinical practice that can lead to adequate solutions to overcome it. This review provides a summary of genetic and molecular aspects of resistance mechanisms to available treatments for BC patients, and its clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Crucitta
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa. Italy
| | - Federico Cucchiara
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa. Italy
| | - Francesca Sciandra
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa. Italy
| | - Annalisa Cerbioni
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa. Italy
| | - Lucrezia Diodati
- Unit of Medical Oncology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa. Italy
| | - Concetta Rafaniello
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples. Italy
| | - Annalisa Capuano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples. Italy
| | - Andrea Fontana
- Unit of Medical Oncology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa. Italy
| | - Stefano Fogli
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa. Italy
| | - Romano Danesi
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa. Italy
| | - Marzia Del Re
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa. Italy
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14
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Koca E, Niravath PA, Ensor J, Patel TA, Li X, Hemati P, Wong H, Qian W, Boone T, Zhao J, Ramshesh PV, Cohen AL, Murthy A, Nair S, Darcourt JG, Belcheva A, Kaklamani VG, Chang JCN. ANETT: PhAse II trial of NEoadjuvant TAK-228 plus Tamoxifen in patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 188:433-439. [PMID: 33860388 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06214-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neoadjuvant endocrine therapy is often utilized to downstage Estrogen Receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer prior to surgery. However, this approach is sometimes met with endocrine resistance mechanisms within the tumor. This trial examines the safety and efficacy of tamoxifen in combination with an mTORC1/2 inhibitor, TAK-228, in the neoadjuvant treatment of ER+ breast cancer. METHODS In this single-arm, open-label trial, pre- and post-menopausal women were enrolled to receive neoadjuvant tamoxifen (20 mg daily) with TAK-228 (30 mg weekly) for 16 weeks prior to surgery. Patient had tissue sampling at baseline, week 6, and week 16. The primary endpoint was change in Ki-67 from baseline to 6 weeks. The toxicity, change in tumor size, pathologic complete response rate, PEPI score, and baseline Oncotype Dx score were also assessed. RESULTS Twenty-eight women were enrolled on the trial, and 25 completed the entire study course. The combination of tamoxifen and TAK-228 resulted in a significant reduction in Ki-67 from 18.3 to 15.2% (p = 0.0023). The drug was also found to be safe and tolerable. While nausea and hyperglycemia were common side effects, these were manageable. The tumor size also significantly decreased with the treatment, with a median decrease of 0.75 cm (p < 0.0001). There were no pathologic complete responses. CONCLUSION Tamoxifen and TAK-228 was safe and well tolerated neoadjuvant treatment for ER+ breast cancer, preliminary evidence of activity with significant reduction in both Ki-67 and tumor size, warranting further evaluation in a larger study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Koca
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | | | - Joe Ensor
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Pej Hemati
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Helen Wong
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wei Qian
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Toniva Boone
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jing Zhao
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Adam Louis Cohen
- Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Asha Murthy
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sindhu Nair
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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15
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Zubair M, Wang S, Ali N. Advanced Approaches to Breast Cancer Classification and Diagnosis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:632079. [PMID: 33716731 PMCID: PMC7952319 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.632079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has recently reported a 66% increase in the global number of cancer deaths since 1960. In the US alone, about one in eight women is expected to develop invasive breast cancer(s) (breast cancer) at some point in their lifetime. Traditionally, a BC diagnosis includes mammography, ultrasound, and some high-end molecular bioimaging. Unfortunately, these techniques detect BC at a later stage. So early and advanced molecular diagnostic tools are still in demand. In the past decade, various histological and immuno-molecular studies have demonstrated that BC is highly heterogeneous in nature. Its growth pattern, cytological features, and expression of key biomarkers in BC cells including hormonal receptor markers can be utilized to develop advanced diagnostic and therapeutic tools. A cancer cell's progression to malignancy exhibits various vital biomarkers, many of which are still underrepresented in BC diagnosis and treatment. Advances in genetics have also enabled the development of multigene assays to detect genetic heterogeneity in BC. However, thus far, the FDA has approved only four such biomarkers-cancer antigens (CA); CA 15-3, CA 27-29, Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and circulating tumor cells (CTC) in assessing BC in body fluids. An adequately structured portable-biosensor with its non-invasive and inexpensive point-of-care analysis can quickly detect such biomarkers without significantly compromising its specificity and selectivity. Such advanced techniques are likely to discriminate between BC and a healthy patient by accurately measuring the cell shape, structure, depth, intracellular and extracellular environment, and lipid membrane compositions. Presently, BC treatments include surgery and systemic chemo- and targeted radiation therapy. A biopsied sample is then subjected to various multigene assays to predict the heterogeneity and recurrence score, thus guiding a specific treatment by providing complete information on the BC subtype involved. Thus far, we have seven prognostic multigene signature tests for BC providing a risk profile that can avoid unnecessary treatments in low-risk patients. Many comparative studies on multigene analysis projected the importance of integrating clinicopathological information with genomic-imprint analysis. Current cohort studies such as MINDACT, TAILORx, Trans-aTTOM, and many more, are likely to provide positive impact on long-term patient outcome. This review offers consolidated information on currently available BC diagnosis and treatment options. It further describes advanced biomarkers for the development of state-of-the-art early screening and diagnostic technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Zubair
- Department of Biology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - S. Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - N. Ali
- Department of Biology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR, United States
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16
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Vanacker H, Cassier PA, Bachelot T. The complex balance of PI3K inhibition. Ann Oncol 2020; 32:127-128. [PMID: 33272746 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2020.10.597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- H Vanacker
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - P A Cassier
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - T Bachelot
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.
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17
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PI3K pathway protein analyses in metastatic breast cancer patients receiving standard everolimus and exemestane. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2020; 146:3013-3023. [PMID: 32566979 PMCID: PMC7519923 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-020-03291-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Everolimus plus exemestane (EVE/EXE) is a registered treatment option for ER-positive, HER2-negative (ER +/HER2-) metastatic breast cancer (MBC), but resistance mechanisms limit efficacy. We aimed to find markers that might help select patients with a higher chance on benefit from EVE/EXE. Methods Immunohistochemistry (IHC) of PTEN, p-AKT(Thr308), p-AKT(Ser473), p-4EBP1, p-p70S6K, p-S6RP(Ser240/244), p-ERK1/2 and p-S6RP (Ser235/236) was performed on primary tumour tissue and on biopsies immediately taken from ER +/HER2- MBC patients before the start of standard EVE/EXE (Eudract 2013-004120-11). Unsupervised hierarchical clustering was executed to create heatmaps to distinguish subgroups of preferentially activated and less-activated PI3K/MAPK proteins. Uni- and multivariate Cox models were used for associations with PFS. Results Primary tumour tissue from 145 patients was retrieved. Median PFS was 5.4 months. Patients without (neo)adjuvant therapy (p = 0.03) or bone only disease (p = 0.04) had longer PFS on EVE/EXE. In primary tumours, neither single proteins nor PI3K/MAPK-associated heatmap subgroups were significantly associated with PFS. In 21 patients a non-osseous biopsy obtained before dosing was useful for continuous scoring, which demonstrated upregulation of several proteins as compared to readings in corresponding primary tumour tissues. These comparisons revealed that increased expression of p-4EBP1 was significantly associated with worse PFS (multivariate HR 3.69, p = 0.05). Conclusions IHC of single proteins or heatmap subgroups of the differentially activated PI3K/MAPK pathways was not able to discriminate patients on EVE/EXE with poor or better PFS. Upregulation of p-4EBP1 in pre-treatment biopsies as compared to levels in primary tumours pointed towards shorter PFS. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00432-020-03291-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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18
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Van den Bossche V, Jadot G, Grisay G, Pierrard J, Honoré N, Petit B, Augusto D, Sauvage S, Laes JF, Seront E. c-MET as a Potential Resistance Mechanism to Everolimus in Breast Cancer: From a Case Report to Patient Cohort Analysis. Target Oncol 2020; 15:139-146. [PMID: 32020516 DOI: 10.1007/s11523-020-00704-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We describe in a patient with breast cancer the change in c-MET expression during everolimus treatment, opening a better understanding of the resistance to everolimus and a role for cabozantinib. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate c-MET as a potential predictive biomarker for everolimus efficacy in breast cancer. METHODS We first selected a patient with breast cancer with a long-lasting response to everolimus and retrospectively profiled biopsies that were taken before everolimus initiation (Biopsy 1) and at progression on everolimus (Biopsy 2) using amplicon sequencing and immunohistochemistry. We then retrospectively evaluated c-MET expression in a cohort of patients with breast cancer treated with everolimus. RESULTS While not expressed in Biopsy 1, c-MET was highly expressed in Biopsy 2, suggesting a role for c-MET in breast cancer progression. Cabozantinib resulted in a rapid radiological response in this patient. Twenty-nine patients were included (12 c-MET-positive and 17 c-MET-negative patients) in the second part of the study. Baseline c-MET expression was associated with higher tumor grade, higher frequency of visceral metastases, and lower endocrine sensitivity. The c-MET-positive patients presented with a shorter progression-free survival (6.1 vs 10.5 months, respectively; p = 0.002) and a lower response rate (0% vs 12%) to everolimus, compared with c-MET-negative patients. CONCLUSIONS c-MET could play a role in the resistance to everolimus and its inhibition should be evaluated in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gaspard Jadot
- Medical Oncology Unit, Hopital de Jolimont, Rue Ferrer 159, 7100, Haine Saint Paul, Belgium
| | - Guillaume Grisay
- Medical Oncology Unit, Hopital de Jolimont, Rue Ferrer 159, 7100, Haine Saint Paul, Belgium
| | - Julien Pierrard
- Medical Oncology Unit, Hopital de Jolimont, Rue Ferrer 159, 7100, Haine Saint Paul, Belgium
| | - Natasha Honoré
- Medical Oncology Unit, Hopital de Jolimont, Rue Ferrer 159, 7100, Haine Saint Paul, Belgium
| | - Bénédicte Petit
- Medical Oncology Unit, Hopital de Jolimont, Rue Ferrer 159, 7100, Haine Saint Paul, Belgium
| | - David Augusto
- Anatomopathology Unit, Hopital de Jolimont, Rue Ferrer 159, 7100, Haine Saint Paul, Belgium
| | | | | | - Emmanuel Seront
- Medical Oncology Unit, Hopital de Jolimont, Rue Ferrer 159, 7100, Haine Saint Paul, Belgium.
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19
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Pancholi S, Leal MF, Ribas R, Simigdala N, Schuster E, Chateau-Joubert S, Zabaglo L, Hills M, Dodson A, Gao Q, Johnston SR, Dowsett M, Cosulich SC, Maragoni E, Martin LA. Combination of mTORC1/2 inhibitor vistusertib plus fulvestrant in vitro and in vivo targets oestrogen receptor-positive endocrine-resistant breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res 2019; 21:135. [PMID: 31801615 PMCID: PMC6894349 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-019-1222-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endocrine therapies are still the main strategy for the treatment of oestrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancers (BC), but resistance remains problematic. Cross-talk between ER and PI3K/AKT/mTORC has been associated with ligand-independent transcription of ER. We have previously reported the anti-proliferative effects of the combination of everolimus (an mTORC1 inhibitor) with endocrine therapy in resistance models, but potential routes of escape via AKT signalling can lead to resistance; therefore, the use of dual mTORC1/2 inhibitors has met with significant interest. Methods To address this, we tested the effect of vistusertib, a dual mTORC1 and mTORC2 inhibitor, in a panel of endocrine-resistant and endocrine-sensitive ER+ BC cell lines, with varying PTEN, PIK3CA and ESR1 mutation status. End-points included proliferation, cell signalling, cell cycle and effect on ER-mediated transcription. Two patient-derived xenografts (PDX) modelling endocrine resistance were used to assess the efficacy of vistusertib, fulvestrant or the combination on tumour progression, and biomarker studies were conducted using immunohistochemistry and RNA-seq technologies. Results Vistusertib caused a dose-dependent decrease in proliferation of all the cell lines tested and reduced abundance of mTORC1, mTORC2 and cell cycle markers, but caused an increase in abundance of EGFR, IGF1R and ERBB3 in a context-dependent manner. ER-mediated transcription showed minimal effect of vistusertib. Combined therapy of vistusertib with fulvestrant showed synergy in two ER+ PDX models of resistance to endocrine therapy and delayed tumour progression after cessation of therapy. Conclusions These data support the notion that models of acquired endocrine resistance may have a different sensitivity to mTOR inhibitor/endocrine therapy combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Pancholi
- Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | - Mariana Ferreira Leal
- Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | - Ricardo Ribas
- Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | - Nikiana Simigdala
- Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | - Eugene Schuster
- Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | | | - Lila Zabaglo
- Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | - Margaret Hills
- Ralph Lauren Centre for Breast Cancer Research, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, SW3 6JJ, UK
| | - Andrew Dodson
- Ralph Lauren Centre for Breast Cancer Research, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, SW3 6JJ, UK
| | - Qiong Gao
- Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | | | - Mitch Dowsett
- Ralph Lauren Centre for Breast Cancer Research, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, SW3 6JJ, UK
| | | | | | - Lesley-Ann Martin
- Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK.
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20
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Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Everolimus in Oncology: Evidences and Perspectives. Ther Drug Monit 2019; 41:568-574. [DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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21
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Carbognin L, Miglietta F, Paris I, Dieci MV. Prognostic and Predictive Implications of PTEN in Breast Cancer: Unfulfilled Promises but Intriguing Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:E1401. [PMID: 31546901 PMCID: PMC6769721 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The characterization of tumor biology and consequently the identification of prognostic and predictive biomarkers represent key issues for the translational research in breast cancer (BC). Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN), the negative regulator of the proto-oncogenic phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway, constitutes one of the most intriguing tumor suppressor genes involved in a series of biological processes, such as cell growth and survival, cellular migration and genomic stability. Loss of PTEN activity, due to protein, genetic or epigenetic alterations, was reported in up to almost half of BC cases. Recently, besides the role of PTEN in the pathogenesis of BC, investigated for over 20 years after the PTEN discovery, several retrospective and prospective translational studies, in the early and advanced setting, reported controversial results regarding the association between PTEN functional status and both clinical outcome and response to various BC treatments. This review explores the pre-clinical and clinical role of PTEN in BC with regard to the potential association of PTEN with prognosis and treatment response or resistance, underlying the complexity of the interpretation of available results and suggesting potential future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Carbognin
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy.
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Roma, Italy.
| | - Federica Miglietta
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy.
- Division of Medical Oncology 2, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Ida Paris
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Roma, Italy.
| | - Maria Vittoria Dieci
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy.
- Division of Medical Oncology 2, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy.
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22
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Demas DM, Demo S, Fallah Y, Clarke R, Nephew KP, Althouse S, Sandusky G, He W, Shajahan-Haq AN. Glutamine Metabolism Drives Growth in Advanced Hormone Receptor Positive Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2019; 9:686. [PMID: 31428575 PMCID: PMC6688514 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dependence on the glutamine pathway is increased in advanced breast cancer cell models and tumors regardless of hormone receptor status or function. While 70% of breast cancers are estrogen receptor positive (ER+) and depend on estrogen signaling for growth, advanced ER+ breast cancers grow independent of estrogen. Cellular changes in amino acids such as glutamine are sensed by the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex, mTORC1, which is often deregulated in ER+ advanced breast cancer. Inhibitor of mTOR, such as everolimus, has shown modest clinical activity in ER+ breast cancers when given with an antiestrogen. Here we show that breast cancer cell models that are estrogen independent and antiestrogen resistant are more dependent on glutamine for growth compared with their sensitive parental cell lines. Co-treatment of CB-839, an inhibitor of GLS, an enzyme that converts glutamine to glutamate, and everolimus interrupts the growth of these endocrine resistant xenografts. Using human tumor microarrays, we show that GLS is significantly higher in human breast cancer tumors with increased tumor grade, stage, ER-negative and progesterone receptor (PR) negative status. Moreover, GLS levels were significantly higher in breast tumors from African-American women compared with Caucasian women regardless of ER or PR status. Among patients treated with endocrine therapy, high GLS expression was associated with decreased disease free survival (DFS) from a multivariable model with GLS expression treated as dichotomous. Collectively, these findings suggest a complex biology for glutamine metabolism in driving breast cancer growth. Moreover, targeting GLS and mTOR in advanced breast cancer may be a novel therapeutic approach in advanced ER+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane M Demas
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Susan Demo
- Calithera Biosciences, South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Yassi Fallah
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Robert Clarke
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Kenneth P Nephew
- Cell, Molecular and Cancer Biology, Medical Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Sandra Althouse
- Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - George Sandusky
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Wei He
- Program in Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology, VT BIOTRANS, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Ayesha N Shajahan-Haq
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
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Kuo CT, Chen CL, Li CC, Huang GS, Ma WY, Hsu WF, Lin CH, Lu YS, Wo AM. Immunofluorescence can assess the efficacy of mTOR pathway therapeutic agent Everolimus in breast cancer models. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10898. [PMID: 31358767 PMCID: PMC6662705 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45319-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
When breast cancer patients start to exhibit resistance to hormonal therapy or chemotherapy, the mTOR inhibitor everolimus can be considered as an alternative therapeutic agent. Everolimus can deregulate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and affect a range of cellular functions. In some patients, the agent does not exhibit the desired efficacy and, even worse, not without the associated side effects. This study assessed the use of immunofluorescence (IF) as a modality to fill this unmet need of predicting the efficacy of everolimus prior to administration. Cell viability and MTT assays based on IF intensities of pho-4EBP1 Thr37/46 and pho-S6K1 Ser424 on breast cancer cells (Hs578T, MCF7, BT474, MDA-MB-231) and patient-derived cell culture from metastatic sites (ABC-82T and ABC-16TX1) were interrogated. Results show that independent pho-4EBP1 Thr37/46 and pho-S6K1 Ser424 IF expressions can classify data into different groups: everolimus sensitive and resistant. The combined IF baseline intensity of these proteins is predictive of the efficacy of everolimus, and their intensities change dynamically when cells are resistant to everolimus. Furthermore, mTOR resistance is not only consequence of the AKT/mTOR pathway but also through the LKB1 or MAPK/ERK pathway. The LKB1 and pho-GSK3β may also be potential predictive markers for everolimus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ting Kuo
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Lin Chen
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chi Li
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Syuan Huang
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Yuan Ma
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Fan Hsu
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hung Lin
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Shen Lu
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 100, Taiwan.
| | - Andrew M Wo
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan.
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Yi Z, Ma F, Liu B, Guan X, Li L, Li C, Qian H, Xu B. Everolimus in hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer: PIK3CA mutation H1047R was a potential efficacy biomarker in a retrospective study. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:442. [PMID: 31088410 PMCID: PMC6515626 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5668-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Everolimus, an inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), has been shown to increase the efficacy of endocrine therapies in hormone receptor (HR)-positive metastatic breast cancer. However, because breast cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease, the responses of different patients to everolimus may vary. Therefore, we performed this study to better select patients who will benefit most from or be resistant to everolimus. Methods Patients with HR-positive breast cancer who were treated with everolimus at the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from February 2014 to March 2017 were enrolled in the present study. Mutations in ctDNA were assayed in 1021 tumor-related genes via gene panel target capture-based next-generation sequencing. Results In total, 120 patients with metastatic breast cancer who were treated with everolimus were enrolled in the present study. The median progression-free survival (PFS) of all patients was 5.1 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.9–6.3 months). No difference in survival was observed between patients who received endocrine drugs used in previous treatment regimens and patients who did not receive these drugs (median PFS 5.2 and 5.1 months, respectively, p > 0.05). Additionally, we did not find any difference in outcomes between patients who had primary resistance to previously used endocrine drugs and patients who had nonprimary resistance to previous treatments (p > 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that < 3 metastatic sites, < 2 lines of previous endocrine therapy, < 2 lines of previous chemotherapy, and treatment with everolimus combined with fulvestrant were associated with improved survival (p < 0.05). Sixteen patients underwent ctDNA analysis before everolimus treatment. The frequency of PIK3CA gene mutations was 62.5%, and H1047R was the most frequently detected mutation. Patients with the PIK3CA/H1047R mutation had longer PFS than patients with wild-type or other mutant forms of PIK3CA, and the median PFS in these two groups of patients was 8.8 and 4.1 months, respectively (p < 0.05). Conclusions Our data suggest that patients who receive more lines of chemotherapy or endocrine therapy are less likely to benefit from everolimus. For everolimus combination therapy, we can even select endocrine drugs that gave rise to primary resistance in previous treatments. Additionally, the PIK3CA/H1047R mutation may be a potential biomarker of sensitivity to everolimus. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-019-5668-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongbi Yi
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.17, Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Fei Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.17, Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Binliang Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.17, Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Xiuwen Guan
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.17, Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Lixi Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.17, Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Chunxiao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Haili Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Binghe Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.17, Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
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25
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Bazzichetto C, Conciatori F, Pallocca M, Falcone I, Fanciulli M, Cognetti F, Milella M, Ciuffreda L. PTEN as a Prognostic/Predictive Biomarker in Cancer: An Unfulfilled Promise? Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11040435. [PMID: 30925702 PMCID: PMC6520939 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11040435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying putative biomarkers of clinical outcomes in cancer is crucial for successful enrichment, and for the selection of patients who are the most likely to benefit from a specific therapeutic approach. Indeed, current research in personalized cancer therapy focuses on the possibility of identifying biomarkers that predict prognosis, sensitivity or resistance to therapies. Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) is a tumor suppressor gene that regulates several crucial cell functions such as proliferation, survival, genomic stability and cell motility through both enzymatic and non-enzymatic activities and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Despite its undisputed role as a tumor suppressor, assessment of PTEN status in sporadic human tumors has yet to provide clinically robust prognostic, predictive or therapeutic information. This is possibly due to the exceptionally complex regulation of PTEN function, which involves genetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional and post-translational events. This review shows a brief summary of the regulation and function of PTEN and discusses its controversial aspects as a prognostic/predictive biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Bazzichetto
- Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome 00185, Italy.
| | - Fabiana Conciatori
- Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy.
| | - Matteo Pallocca
- SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy.
| | - Italia Falcone
- Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Fanciulli
- SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy.
| | - Francesco Cognetti
- Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy.
| | - Michele Milella
- Section of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona School of Medicine and Verona University Hospital Trust, Verona 37126, Italy.
| | - Ludovica Ciuffreda
- Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy.
- SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy.
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Kikawa Y, Kotake T, Kajiwara Y, Hashimoto K, Yamashiro H, Ohtani S, Takao S, Toi M. Clinical Predictive Factors for the Efficacy of Everolimus in Patients With Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER2-Negative Advanced Breast Cancer: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study in Japan. BREAST CANCER-BASIC AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2019; 13:1178223418825135. [PMID: 30733627 PMCID: PMC6343452 DOI: 10.1177/1178223418825135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the clinical predictive factors for the efficacy of everolimus (EVE) for advanced/metastatic breast cancer (AMBC). Methods: Routine practice data of consecutive patients with AMBC who received EVE at 5 institutions in western Japan were retrospectively analyzed in this cohort study (study registration no.: UMIN 000032569). The correlation among time to treatment failure (TTF), overall survival (OS), and clinical background was investigated via univariate and multivariate analyses using Cox hazards model for the clinically important variables. Results: A total of 134 patients were included in the analysis. The median TTF and OS were 5.2 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.1-6.4) and 27.3 months (95% CI: 23.7-30.9), respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that dose reduction of EVE from any initial dose was associated with a longer TTF (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.32-0.84, P = .007). Meanwhile, very low hormone sensitivity (ie, relapse within the first 2 years during adjuvant endocrine therapy or progression within 3 months of endocrine therapy immediately before EVE) was associated with a shorter TTF (HR: 2.48; 95% CI: 1.49-4.10, P < .001). In the analysis of stratified treatment outcomes, TTF was longer in the group with <3 liver metastases and in groups other than the very low hormone sensitivity group, regardless of the treatment line of EVE. Conclusions: Low hormone sensitivity and ⩾3 liver metastases were important prognostic factors for the efficacy of EVE. EVE may be less effective in patients with AMBC with these factors, and as such, chemotherapy should be administered instead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichiro Kikawa
- Department of Breast Surgery, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Japan
- Yuichiro Kikawa, Department of Breast Surgery, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-2-1, Minatojimaminamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Hyogo, Japan.
| | - Takeshi Kotake
- Department of Breast Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukiko Kajiwara
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hiroshima City Hiroshima Citizens Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazuki Hashimoto
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hyogo Cancer Center, Akashi, Japan
| | | | - Shoichiro Ohtani
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hiroshima City Hiroshima Citizens Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shintaro Takao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hyogo Cancer Center, Akashi, Japan
| | - Masakazu Toi
- Department of Breast Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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Syed BM, Green AR, Morgan DAL, Ellis IO, Cheung KL. Liver Kinase B1-A Potential Therapeutic Target in Hormone-Sensitive Breast Cancer in Older Women. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11020149. [PMID: 30696074 PMCID: PMC6406422 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11020149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The role of liver kinase B1 (LKB1), a serine/threonine kinase, has been described in the development of PeutzJagher’s syndrome, where a proportion (~45%) of patients have developed breast cancer in their lifetime. Cell line studies have linked LKB1 with oestrogen receptors (ER) and with the Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway for energy metabolism. However, limited studies have investigated protein expression of LKB1 in tumour tissues and its intracellular relationships. This study aimed to investigate the intracellular molecular relationships of LKB1 in older women with early operable primary breast cancer and its correlation with long-term clinical outcome. Methods: Between 1973 and 2010, a consecutive series of 1758 older (≥70 years) women with T0-2N0-1M0 breast carcinoma were managed in a dedicated facility. Of these, 813 patients underwent primary surgery, and 575 had good quality tumour samples available for tissue microarray construction. LKB1 was assessed in 407 cases by indirect immunohistochemistry (IHC). Tumours with 30% or more of cells with cytoplasmic LKB1 expression were considered positive. LKB1 expression was compared with tumour size, histological grade, axillary lymph node stage, ER, PgR, EGFR, HER2, HER3, HER4, BRCA1&2, p53, Ki67, Bcl2, Muc1, E-Cadherin, CD44, basal (CK5, CK5/6, CK14 and CK17) and luminal (CK7/8, CK18 and CK19) cytokeratins, MDM2 and MDM4, and correlated with long-term clinical outcome. Results: Positive LKB1 expression was seen in 318 (78.1%) patients, and was significantly associated with high tumour grade, high Ki67, over-expression of HER2, VEGF, HER4, BRCA2, MDM2 and negative expression of CD44 (p < 0.05). There was no significant correlation with tumour size, axillary lymph node status, ER, PgR, p53, basal or luminal cytokeratins, Bcl2, Muc1, EGFR, HER3, MDM4, E-cadherin and BRCA1. LKB1 did not show any significant influence on survival in the overall population; however, in those patients receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy for ER positive tumours, those with positive LKB1 had significantly better 5-year breast cancer specific survival when compared to those without such expression (93% versus 74%, p = 0.03). Conclusion: LKB1 expression has shown association with poor prognostic factors in older women with breast cancer. However, LKB1 expression appears to be associated with better survival outcome among those patients receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy. Further research is required to explore its potential role as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binafsha Manzoor Syed
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, DE22 3DT Nottingham, United Kingdom.
- Medical Research Centre, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences, Jamshoro 71000, Pakistan.
| | - Andrew R Green
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, DE22 3DT Nottingham, United Kingdom.
| | - David A L Morgan
- Department of Oncology, Nottingham University Hospitals, NG5 1PB Nottingham, United Kingdom.
| | - Ian O Ellis
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, DE22 3DT Nottingham, United Kingdom.
| | - Kwok-Leung Cheung
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, DE22 3DT Nottingham, United Kingdom.
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28
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Mutational Profile of Metastatic Breast Cancer Tissue in Patients Treated with Exemestane Plus Everolimus. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:3756981. [PMID: 30140695 PMCID: PMC6081542 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3756981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Everolimus has been shown to overcome endocrine resistance in hormone receptor positive advanced breast cancer patients. Predictive biomarkers of everolimus efficacy have been investigated in primary breast cancer tissue without finding univocal results. The goal of this study was to investigate the mutational burden in the metastatic site of endocrine-resistant tumors treated with everolimus plus exemestane. Patients and Methods Mass Array Sequenom platform was used to analyse genetic status of 18 cancer-related genes in 25 archival tumor specimens from metastatic lesions and available primary matched breast cancer tissue of patients treated with everolimus and exemestane for advanced disease. An exploratory analysis of everolimus efficacy in terms of progression free survival benefit and single gene mutation was carried out. Results The overall detection rate of mutation was 30% and 38% from metastatic and primary breast cancer samples, respectively. AKT1E17K was the most frequent mutated gene. No primary breast cancer and matched relapse maintained the same mutation profile. Considering molecular pathways, the most of the genes belong to PI3K pathway (AKT1E17K, PI3KCAE545K, and KITG565R,S709F). In patients with detected mutations in breast and/or recurrence tissue the median PFS was 5,6 months while in the subgroup of patients with no mutations the median PFS was 7,5 months. Conclusions The mutational status of breast cancer recurrence allows the identification of some genes potentially correlating tumor response/resistance to everolimus. The most frequently mutated genes were involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway highlighting that the deregulation of this pathway in the relapse plays a crucial role in the mechanisms of everolimus resistance/sensitivity. Owing to the small sample size and the retrospective nature of the study, these correlations need to be validated in a large prospective study.
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O'Shaughnessy J, Thaddeus Beck J, Royce M. Everolimus-based combination therapies for HR+, HER2- metastatic breast cancer. Cancer Treat Rev 2018; 69:204-214. [PMID: 30092555 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2018.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is the leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women worldwide. Endocrine therapy is the standard of care for the most common subtype of MBC, hormone-receptor positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) disease. Advances in treating this type of MBC have focused on improving the efficacy of endocrine therapy by adding agents that target specific molecular pathways of breast cancer cell growth and survival. The combination of the aromatase inhibitor exemestane and the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor, everolimus, more than doubled median progression-free survival compared with exemestane alone (7.8 vs 3.2 months, respectively; hazard ratio 0.45 [95% confidence interval 0.38-0.54]; log rank P < 0.0001) in the BOLERO-2 study in postmenopausal women with HR+, HER2- locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer that had recurred or progressed on prior non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor therapy. In addition, everolimus plus exemestane was associated with a manageable safety profile. The results of BOLERO-2 led to regulatory approval of everolimus plus exemestane. Additional everolimus-based combinations have been or are under investigation in the HR+, HER2- MBC setting, including combinations with letrozole, fulvestrant, ribociclib, tamoxifen, and chemotherapy. This review summarizes key data on everolimus-based combinations focusing on efficacy, safety, biomarkers, quality of life, and health economic outcomes. These data are discussed in the context of the changing MBC treatment algorithm to provide insights into the clinical relevance of everolimus-based combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce O'Shaughnessy
- Baylor University Medical Center, Texas Oncology, US Oncology, 3410 Worth St, Suite 400, Dallas, TX 75246, USA.
| | - J Thaddeus Beck
- Highlands Oncology Group, 3232 N Northhills Blvd, Fayetteville, AR 72703, USA.
| | - Melanie Royce
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, 7605 Via de Calma NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113, USA.
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Christopoulos P, Engel-Riedel W, Grohé C, Kropf-Sanchen C, von Pawel J, Gütz S, Kollmeier J, Eberhardt W, Ukena D, Baum V, Nimmrich I, Sieder C, Schnabel PA, Serke M, Thomas M. Everolimus with paclitaxel and carboplatin as first-line treatment for metastatic large-cell neuroendocrine lung carcinoma: a multicenter phase II trial. Ann Oncol 2018; 28:1898-1902. [PMID: 28535181 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdx268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung (LCNEC) is a rare disease with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Neuroendocrine tumors frequently show overactivation of the mTOR pathway. Based on the good activity of the mTOR inhibitor everolimus in different types of neuroendocrine tumors and the results of a previous phase I trial, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of everolimus in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel as upfront treatment for patients with advanced LCNEC. Patients and methods In this prospective, multicenter phase II trial chemotherapy-naive patients with stage IV LCNEC received 5 mg everolimus daily combined with paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 and carboplatin AUC 5 every 3 weeks for a maximum of four cycles followed by maintenance everolimus 5 mg daily until progression. Efficacy parameters were determined based on central radiologic assessment. Results Forty-nine patients with a mean age of 62 ±9 years and a predominance of male (71%) smokers (98%) were enrolled in 10 German centers. The overall response rate was 45% (95% confidence interval [CI] 31%-60%), the disease control rate 74% (CI 59%-85%), the median progression-free survival 4.4 (CI 3.2-6) months and the median overall survival 9.9 (CI 6.9-11.7) months. The progression-free survival rate at 3 months (primary end point) was 76% (CI 64%-88%) according to Kaplan-Meier. Grade-3/4 toxicities occurred in 51% of patients and mainly consisted of general physical health deterioration (8%), cytopenias (24%), infections (10%) and gastrointestinal problems (8%). Typical everolimus-related adverse events, like stomatitis, rash and ocular problems occurred only in a minority of patients (<15%) and were exclusively of grade 1-2. Conclusion Everolimus in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel is an effective and well-tolerated first-line treatment for patients with metastatic LCNEC. Registered clinical trial numbers EudraCT number 2010-022273-34, NCT01317615.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Christopoulos
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC-H), Heidelberg, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)
| | - W Engel-Riedel
- Department of Pneumology, Lung Hospital Cologne Merheim, City of Cologne Municipal Hospitals, Cologne
| | - C Grohé
- Department of Pneumology, Protestant Lung Hospital, Berlin
| | - C Kropf-Sanchen
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm
| | - J von Pawel
- Department of Pneumology, Asklepios Hospital Munich-Gauting
| | - S Gütz
- Department of Pneumology and Cardiology, Lutheran Deaconess' Hospital, Leipzig
| | - J Kollmeier
- Department of Pneumology, HELIOS Hospital Emil von Behring, Berlin
| | - W Eberhardt
- Department of Medical Oncology (Cancer Research), Ruhrlandclinic, University Hospital, Essen
| | - D Ukena
- Department of Pneumology and Respiratory Medicine, Hospital Bremen-Ost, Bremen
| | - V Baum
- Business Unit Oncology, Novartis Pharma GmbH, Nürnberg
| | - I Nimmrich
- Business Unit Oncology, Novartis Pharma GmbH, Nürnberg
| | - C Sieder
- Business Unit Oncology, Novartis Pharma GmbH, Nürnberg
| | - P A Schnabel
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Saarland, Homburg
| | - M Serke
- Department of Pneumology, Lung Hospital Hemer, Germany
| | - M Thomas
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC-H), Heidelberg, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)
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Abstract
Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is the kinase subunit of two structurally and functionally distinct large multiprotein complexes, referred to as mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. mTORC1 and mTORC2 play key physiological roles as they control anabolic and catabolic processes in response to external cues in a variety of tissues and organs. However, mTORC1 and mTORC2 activities are deregulated in widespread human diseases, including cancer. Cancer cells take advantage of mTOR oncogenic signaling to drive their proliferation, survival, metabolic transformation, and metastatic potential. Therefore, mTOR lends itself very well as a therapeutic target for innovative cancer treatment. mTOR was initially identified as the target of the antibiotic rapamycin that displayed remarkable antitumor activity in vitro Promising preclinical studies using rapamycin and its derivatives (rapalogs) demonstrated efficacy in many human cancer types, hence supporting the launch of numerous clinical trials aimed to evaluate the real effectiveness of mTOR-targeted therapies. However, rapamycin and rapalogs have shown very limited activity in most clinical contexts, also when combined with other drugs. Thus, novel classes of mTOR inhibitors with a stronger antineoplastic potency have been developed. Nevertheless, emerging clinical data suggest that also these novel mTOR-targeting drugs may have a weak antitumor activity. Here, we summarize the current status of available mTOR inhibitors and highlight the most relevant results from both preclinical and clinical studies that have provided valuable insights into both their efficacy and failure.
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Okazaki M, Horimoto Y, Tanabe M, Ichikawa Y, Tokuda E, Arakawa A, Kobayashi T, Saito M. Predictive markers for efficacy of everolimus plus exemestane in patients with luminal HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. Med Oncol 2018. [PMID: 29520681 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-018-1112-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is essentially incurable despite recent improvements in systemic therapies. We often encounter difficulties in choosing the most appropriate treatments, with optimal timing, for individual patients. Everolimus, one of the mTOR inhibitors, is usually used with endocrine therapy for MBC. Identification of predictive markers for everolimus-based treatment remains a major issue, but to date, no predictive markers have been established. We retrospectively investigated predictive markers for treatments with everolimus plus exemestane in patients with ER-positive and HER2-negative breast cancer. Clinicopathological features of 18 patients, with locally advanced disease or MBC given everolimus plus exemestane treatments, were examined in relation to treatment effects. Also, primary breast cancer specimens, all ER positive and HER2 negative, were immunohistochemically investigated for phospho-S6 (pS6) and PTEN, to evaluate the mTOR and PIK3CA/Akt pathways. Those showing a good clinical response had a significantly lower Ki67 labeling index than the poor responders. A similar trend was observed in pS6 level but without statistical significance. Interestingly, there was no correlation between the Ki67 labeling index and pS6, and when both indexes were low, the good clinical response rate was high. The median progression-free survival was longer in the group showing a low Ki67 labeling index (109 weeks) than in that with high Ki67 (19 weeks). There was no trend between PTEN expression and treatment effects. Our results suggest that the primary tumor in luminal HER2-negative breast cancer patients with a low Ki67 labeling index and pS6 level has the potential to respond well to everolimus plus exemestane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misato Okazaki
- Department of Breast Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Horimoto
- Department of Breast Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan. .,Department of Pathology and Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Masahiko Tanabe
- Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yuko Ichikawa
- Department of Breast Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Emi Tokuda
- Department of Breast Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Atsushi Arakawa
- Department of Human Pathology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Kobayashi
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Mitsue Saito
- Department of Breast Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
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Yi Z, Ma F. Biomarkers of Everolimus Sensitivity in Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer. J Breast Cancer 2017; 20:321-326. [PMID: 29285035 PMCID: PMC5743990 DOI: 10.4048/jbc.2017.20.4.321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is an important mechanism of resistance to endocrine therapy in breast cancer. Everolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, has been shown to increase the efficacy of endocrine therapy and overcome resistance to endocrine therapies. Clinical studies have suggested that everolimus combined with endocrine therapy prolongs progression-free survival in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer patients. However, because breast cancer includes a group of highly heterogeneous tumors, patients may have different responses to everolimus. Therefore, finding biomarkers that can predict a patient's positive response or resistance to everolimus is critical. Numerous preclinical studies have shown that PIK3CA/PTEN mutations are predictive of sensitivity to everolimus; however, clinical trials have not confirmed the correlation between mutation status and clinical response. KRAS or BRAF mutations can bypass the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway; therefore, mutations in KRAS or BRAF may lead to resistance to mTOR inhibitors, and preclinical studies have shown that PIK3CA mutant cells which also contain KRAS mutations are resistant to everolimus. However, there are no clinical data in breast cancer patients to support this conclusion. Therefore, large-scale clinical studies are needed to identify biomarkers of efficacy and resistance to everolimus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongbi Yi
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Laes JF, Sauvage S, Ghitti G. Tumor-biopsy stratification based on mTOR-pathway activity and functional mutations in the upstream genes PIK3CA and PTEN. Oncotarget 2017; 8:84426-84433. [PMID: 29137436 PMCID: PMC5663608 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is frequently activated in human cancers. Our objective was to evaluate relationships between mTOR-pathway activity and functional mutations in the upstream genes PIK3CA and PTEN in solid-tumor biopsies from a broad selection of cancer types. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor samples were analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and next-generation sequencing (NGS). TOR-pathway activation was identified by expression (by IHC) of the downstream effector p-4E-BP1. Activating PIK3CA mutations and null PTEN mutations were identified by NGS, and for PTEN, confirmed by IHC. Overall, mTOR-pathway activation was identified in 444/538 (83%) samples representing 40 different cancer types. Functional mutations in either or both PIK3CA and PTEN genes were identified in 173/538 (32%) samples. PIK3CA mutations were identified in 60/538 (11%) samples, PTEN mutations were identified in 155/538 (29%) samples and mutations in both PIK3CA and PTEN were identified in 18/538 (3%) samples. Overall, mTOR-pathway activation was not significantly associated with the PIK3CA and PTEN genotypes. However, all 18 samples with both PIK3CA and PTEN mutations also displayed mTOR-pathway activation (χ2p=0.0471). Also, out of a total of 95 breast cancer samples, there were 5 breast-cancer samples which did not have mTOR-pathway activation, and all 5 (100%) of these had PIK3CA and PTEN mutations compared to 51/90 (57%) in the breast-cancer samples with mTOR-pathway activation (χ2p=0.0134). Finally, the percentages of PIK3CA mutations were higher in colorectal-cancer samples which had mTOR-pathway activation (9/27, 33%) than in colorectal-cancer samples without mTOR-pathway activation (6/44; 14%; χ2 p=0.0484). Therefore, tumor-biopsy analyses based on combined mTOR-pathway biomarkers (and combined NGS and IHC assessments) could potentially provide treatment-informative stratification for particular cancer types.
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Ejaz S, Nasim FUH, Ashraf M, Ahmad G. Down-regulation of hK7 in the sera of breast cancer and benign breast disease patients. Heliyon 2017; 3:e00356. [PMID: 28761938 PMCID: PMC5522378 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2017.e00356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Breast cancer is known as a leading cause of cancer-related death among women all over the world. Biomarkers facilitate diagnosis at the earliest possible stage and better prognosis of the disease. Hence, may help to improve the overall survival rate among breast cancer patients. To find a better diagnostic/prognostic marker we evaluated human tissue kallikrein 7 (hK7) as biomarker of breast cancer. hK7 is a secreted serine protease having chymotrypsin like activity. Serum hK7 is known to have aberrant expression in ovarian and prostate cancer but has not been yet studied in breast cancer. However, the expression level of KLK7 mRNA in breast cancer tissues has been indicated as a better prognostic marker for the unfavorable prognosis of breast carcinoma. Materials and methods In this study a time-resolved immunofluorometric indirect back titration ELISA (bt-ELISA) was employed for the quantification of hK7 in serum of breast cancer patients (n = 47), benign breast disease patients (n = 13) alongwith the gender and age group specific controls (n = 99). Results hK7 was significantly down-regulated in the sera of female breast cancer patients (p < 0.0001; Mean 0.704 ± 0.533 μg/L) and benign breast disease patients (p = 0.0008; Mean 0.651 ± 0.584) as compared to normal controls (Mean 1.665 ± 1.174 μg/L). Conclusions Down regulation of hK7 suggests the possible role of this protein in natural course of breast cancer and benign breast diseases. Study should be extended on large-scale to confirm the potential of hK7 as biomarker of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samina Ejaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Faiz-Ul-Hassan Nasim
- Department of Chemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ashraf
- Department of Chemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Gulzar Ahmad
- Department of Surgery, Quaid-i-Azam Medical College, Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
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Bajpai J, Ramaswamy A, Chandrasekharan A, Mishra S, Shet T, Gupta S, Badwe RA. Activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt/mechanistic target of rapamycin pathway and response to everolimus in endocrine receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer - A retrospective pilot analysis and viewpoint. South Asian J Cancer 2017; 6:102-105. [PMID: 28975114 PMCID: PMC5615875 DOI: 10.4103/sajc.sajc_113_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Biomarkers predictive of response to mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, everolimus, in endocrine receptor (ER)-positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC) are a work in progress. We evaluated the feasibility of directly measuring mTOR activity and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression and correlating their expression with response and survival. Materials and Methods: MBC patients who received everolimus with endocrine therapy (ET) after progression on an aromatase inhibitor and had adequate tissue preservation for estimation of mTOR activity and PTEN expression were selected for analysis from a prospectively maintained database. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated by Kaplan–Meier method, and correlation between mTOR activity and PTEN expression with survival was done by log-rank test. Results: Thirteen ER-positive MBC patients were available for analysis. PTEN expression was lost in 11/13 (84.6%) patients and retained in 2/13 patients (15.4%). mTOR activity was absent in four patients (30.7%), weak in six patients (46.1%), and moderate in 3 patients (23.2%). Median PFS for the entire population was 2.5 months while median OS was not reached. Patients with an absent mTOR activity showed a longer PFS (5 vs. 1.5 vs. 2 months) than those with weak and moderate activity, respectively (P = 0.043). There was no correlation between loss of PTEN expression and PFS. Conclusions: Measurement of direct mTOR activity in patients with MBC receiving everolimus/ET combination appears feasible. Absent mTOR activity may predict for longer PFS with everolimus-ET combination and requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Bajpai
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Anant Ramaswamy
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Arun Chandrasekharan
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Surya Mishra
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Tanuja Shet
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sudeep Gupta
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - R A Badwe
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Turner NC, Neven P, Loibl S, Andre F. Advances in the treatment of advanced oestrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer. Lancet 2017; 389:2403-2414. [PMID: 27939057 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(16)32419-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Oestrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer is the most common subtype of breast cancer. Endocrine therapies that target the dependence of this subtype on the oestrogen receptor have substantial activity, yet the development of resistance to therapy is inevitable in advanced cancer. Major progress has been made in identifying the drivers of oestrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer and the mechanisms of resistance to endocrine therapy. This progress has translated into major advances in the treatment of advanced breast cancer, with several targeted therapies that enhance the efficacy of endocrine therapy; inhibitors of mTOR and inhibitors of the cyclin-dependent kinases CDK4 and CDK6 substantially improve progression-free survival. A new wave of targeted therapies is being developed, including inhibitors of PI3K, AKT, and HER2, and a new generation of oestrogen-receptor degraders. Considerable challenges remain in patient selection, deciding on the most appropriate order in which to administer therapies, and establishing whether cross-resistance occurs between therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick Neven
- Multidisciplinary Breast Centre and Department of Gynaecological Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven, Department of Oncology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sibylle Loibl
- German Breast Group (GBG), c/o GBG Forschungs GmbH, Neu-Isenburg, Germany; Centre for Haematology and Oncology, Bethanien, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Fabrice Andre
- INSERM U981, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Université Paris Sud, Villejuif, France
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Matikas A, Foukakis T, Bergh J. Tackling endocrine resistance in ER-positive HER2-negative advanced breast cancer: A tale of imprecision medicine. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2017; 114:91-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
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Pronzato P. Role of everolimus in the treatment of metastatic HER2-negative/HR-positive breast cancer. Future Oncol 2017; 13:1371-1384. [PMID: 28443700 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2017-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) is a leading cause of mortality for women around the world. The response to hormonotherapy of the patients with HER2-negative/HR-positive mBC is usually limited, and many strategies are in place to contrast the hormonotherapy resistance. Since efficacy and effectiveness of everolimus have been established by many trials, this review is aimed to give a structured synthesis to define the everolimus clinical role among the treatment options for mBC. Key aspects of everolimus dosing and safety profile, drawn up by relevant findings, are included, as well as the role of biomarkers to identify subgroups of mBC patients who may best benefit from everolimus treatment.
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Augereau P, Patsouris A, Bourbouloux E, Gourmelon C, Abadie Lacourtoisie S, Berton Rigaud D, Soulié P, Frenel JS, Campone M. Hormonoresistance in advanced breast cancer: a new revolution in endocrine therapy. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2017; 9:335-346. [PMID: 28529550 PMCID: PMC5424863 DOI: 10.1177/1758834017693195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine therapy is the mainstay of treatment of estrogen-receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer with an overall survival benefit. However, some adaptive mechanisms in the tumor emerge leading to the development of a resistance to this therapy. A better characterization of this process is needed to overcome this resistance and to develop new tailored therapies. Mechanisms of resistance to hormone therapy result in activation of transduction signal pathways, including the cell cycle regulation with cyclin D/CDK4/6/Rb pathway. The strategy of combined hormone therapy with targeted agents has shown an improvement of progression-free survival (PFS) in several phase II or III trials, including three different classes of drugs: mTOR inhibitors, PI3K and CDK4/6 inhibitors. A recent phase III trial has shown that fulvestrant combined with a CDK 4/6 inhibitor doubles PFS in aromatase inhibitor-pretreated postmenopausal ER+ breast cancer. Other combinations are ongoing to disrupt the interaction between PI3K/AKT/mTOR and cyclin D/CDK4/6/Rb pathways. Despite these successful strategies, reliable and reproducible biomarkers are needed. Tumor genomics are dynamic over time, and blood-based biomarkers such as circulating tumor DNA represent a major hope to elucidate the adaptive mechanisms of endocrine resistance. The optimal combinations and biomarkers to guide this strategy need to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paule Augereau
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut cancerologie de l'ouest site Paul Papin, 15 rue Andre Bocquel 49055 Angers Cedex 02, France
| | - Anne Patsouris
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut cancerologie de l'ouest site Paul Papin, France
| | - Emmanuelle Bourbouloux
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut cancerologie de l'ouest site René Gauducheau, Saint Herblain, France
| | - Carole Gourmelon
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut cancerologie de l'ouest site René Gauducheau, Saint Herblain, France
| | | | - Dominique Berton Rigaud
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut cancerologie de l'ouest site René Gauducheau, Saint Herblain, France
| | - Patrick Soulié
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut cancerologie de l'ouest site Paul Papin, France
| | - Jean Sebastien Frenel
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut cancerologie de l'ouest site René Gauducheau, Saint Herblain, France
| | - Mario Campone
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut cancerologie de l'ouest site Paul Papin, France Department of Medical Oncology, Institut cancerologie de l'ouest site René Gauducheau, Saint Herblain, France
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Predicting clinical benefit from everolimus in patients with advanced solid tumors, the CPCT-03 study. Oncotarget 2017; 8:55582-55592. [PMID: 28903445 PMCID: PMC5589684 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In this study, our aim was to identify molecular aberrations predictive for response to everolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, regardless of tumor type. Methods To generate hypotheses about potential markers for sensitivity to mTOR inhibition, drug sensitivity and genomic profiles of 835 cell lines were analyzed. Subsequently, a multicenter study was conducted. Patients with advanced solid tumors lacking standard of care treatment options were included and underwent a pre-treatment tumor biopsy to enable DNA sequencing of 1,977 genes, derive copy number profiles and determine activation status of pS6 and pERK. Treatment benefit was determined according to TTP ratio and RECIST. We tested for associations between treatment benefit and single molecular aberrations, clusters of aberrations and pathway perturbation. Results Cell line screens indicated several genes, such as PTEN (P = 0.016; Wald test), to be associated with sensitivity to mTOR inhibition. Subsequently 73 patients were included, of which 59 started treatment with everolimus. Response and molecular data were available from 43 patients. PTEN aberrations, i.e. copy number loss or mutation, were associated with treatment benefit (P = 0.046; Fisher's exact test). Conclusion Loss-of-function aberrations in PTEN potentially represent a tumor type agnostic biomarker for benefit from everolimus and warrants further confirmation in subsequent studies.
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Molecular Biomarkers for Prediction of Targeted Therapy Response in Metastatic Breast Cancer: Trick or Treat? Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18010085. [PMID: 28054957 PMCID: PMC5297719 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the study of genomic alterations and protein expression involved in the pathways of breast cancer carcinogenesis has provided an increasing number of targets for drugs development in the setting of metastatic breast cancer (i.e., trastuzumab, everolimus, palbociclib, etc.) significantly improving the prognosis of this disease. These drugs target specific molecular abnormalities that confer a survival advantage to cancer cells. On these bases, emerging evidence from clinical trials provided increasing proof that the genetic landscape of any tumor may dictate its sensitivity or resistance profile to specific agents and some studies have already showed that tumors treated with therapies matched with their molecular alterations obtain higher objective response rates and longer survival. Predictive molecular biomarkers may optimize the selection of effective therapies, thus reducing treatment costs and side effects. This review offers an overview of the main molecular pathways involved in breast carcinogenesis, the targeted therapies developed to inhibit these pathways, the principal mechanisms of resistance and, finally, the molecular biomarkers that, to date, are demonstrated in clinical trials to predict response/resistance to targeted treatments in metastatic breast cancer.
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Kassem L, Abdel-Rahman O. Targeting mTOR pathway in gynecological malignancies: Biological rationale and systematic review of published data. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2016; 108:1-12. [PMID: 27931828 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND mTOR inhibitors are widely used in different malignancies with several trials testing their efficacy and safety in gynecological malignancies. We aimed to review the current evidence that support the expansion of using such drugs in the treatment of advanced gynecological cancers. METHODS A comprehensive systematic review of literature has been conducted to include prospective trials that used everolimus, temsirolimus or ridaforolimus in the management of gynecological cancers and have available efficacy and toxicity results. RESULTS A total of 23 studies including 980 patients were considered eligible for our review. Our review included 16 phase II and 7 phase I studies with the majority of patients having uterine cancers. Regarding Endometrial cancer, the CBR ranged from 21% to 60% and median PFS from 2.8 months to 7.3 months. In Ovarian cancers, CBR ranged from 24% to 50% and median PFS from 3.2 months to 5.9 months. In the single phase II study in cervical cancer the CBR was 61% and median PFS was 3.5 months. The toxicity profile was consistent with what was observed previously in other malignancies with fatigue, mucositis, and hematological toxicities being the most common adverse events observed. CONCLUSION mTOR inhibitors seem to be a promising option in the second line management of advanced gynecological cancers with best safety and efficacy outcomes when given as a single agent or in combination with hormonal treatment. More research is needed for better patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loay Kassem
- Clinical Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Omar Abdel-Rahman
- Clinical Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Zhu AX, Chen D, He W, Kanai M, Voi M, Chen LT, Daniele B, Furuse J, Kang YK, Poon RTP, Vogel A, Chiang DY. Integrative biomarker analyses indicate etiological variations in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hepatol 2016; 65:296-304. [PMID: 27130844 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The purpose of this study was to determine whether biomarkers from baseline plasma and archival tissue specimens collected from patients enrolled in the EVOLVE-1 trial - a randomized phase 3 study of everolimus in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) - were associated with prognosis, etiology or ethnicity. METHODS Circulating plasma levels of bFGF, PLGF, VEGF, VEGF-D, c-Kit, collagen IV, sVEGFR1 and VEGFR2 were measured by ELISA (N=503). Protein levels of IGF-1R, c-Met, mTOR, Tsc2 were assayed by immunohistochemistry (N=125). Genomic DNA sequencing was conducted on a panel of 287 cancer-related genes (N=69). RESULTS Patients with baseline plasma concentrations of VEGF or sVEGFR1 above the cohort median had significantly shorter overall survival. These plasma biomarkers retained prognostic significance in a multivariate Cox regression model with geographic region, macroscopic vascular invasion and alpha fetoprotein AFP levels. Membranous c-Met protein levels were significantly lower for Asian patients, as well as for hepatitis B viral etiology. The prevalence of genetic changes were similar to previous reports, along with a trend towards higher PTEN and TSC2 mutations among Asians. CONCLUSIONS The angiogenesis biomarkers VEGF and sVEGFR1 were independent prognostic predictors of survival in patients with advanced HCC. Potential differences in c-Met and mTOR pathway activation between Asian and non-Asian patients should be considered in future clinical trials. LAY SUMMARY Our study demonstrates that circulating angiogenesis biomarkers can predict the survival outcome in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma independent of the clinical variables. There is etiology and ethnicity variation in molecular pathway activation in hepatocellular carcinoma, which should be considered for future clinical trial design of targeted therapy. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01035229.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew X Zhu
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - David Chen
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | - Wei He
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | - Masayuki Kanai
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | - Maurizio Voi
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | - Li-Tzong Chen
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Koahsiung, Taiwan
| | - Bruno Daniele
- Department of Medical Oncology, G Rummo Hospital, Benevento, Italy
| | - Junji Furuse
- Department of Medical Oncology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoon-Koo Kang
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ronnie T P Poon
- Department of Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Arndt Vogel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Derek Y Chiang
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
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Defining the Prognostic and Predictive Role of PIK3CA Mutations: Sifting Through the Conflicting Data. CURRENT BREAST CANCER REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s12609-016-0215-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Steelman LS, Martelli AM, Cocco L, Libra M, Nicoletti F, Abrams SL, McCubrey JA. The therapeutic potential of mTOR inhibitors in breast cancer. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 82:1189-1212. [PMID: 27059645 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapamycin and modified rapamycins (rapalogs) have been used to prevent allograft rejection after organ transplant for over 15 years. The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been determined to be a key component of the mTORC1 complex which consists of the serine/threonine kinase TOR and at least five other proteins which are involved in regulating its activity. Some of the best characterized substrates of mTORC1 are proteins which are key kinases involved in the regulation of cell growth (e.g., p70S6K) and protein translation (e.g., 4E-BP1). These proteins may in some cases serve as indicators to sensitivity to rapamycin-related therapies. Dysregulation of mTORC1 activity frequently occurs due to mutations at, or amplifications of, upstream growth factor receptors (e.g., human epidermal growth factor receptor-2, HER2) as well as kinases (e.g., PI3K) and phosphatases (e.g., PTEN) critical in the regulation of cell growth. More recently, it has been shown that certain rapalogs may enhance the effectiveness of hormonal-based therapies for breast cancer patients who have become resistant to endocrine therapy. The combined treatment of certain rapalogs (e.g., everolimus) and aromatase inhibitors (e.g., exemestane) has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) and other drug regulatory agencies to treat estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer patients who have become resistant to hormonal-based therapies and have progressed. This review will summarize recent basic and clinical research in the area and evaluate potential novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Libra
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Laboratory of Translational Oncology & Functional Genomics, Section of Pathology & Oncology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Laboratory of Translational Oncology & Functional Genomics, Section of Pathology & Oncology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Stephen L Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
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Bachelot T, Campone M, Tredan O. PI3K targeting in breast cancer: the end of the beginning? Lancet Oncol 2016; 17:696-697. [PMID: 27155742 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(16)00148-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mario Campone
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest, Saint-Herblain, Nantes, France
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Liu FT, Ou YX, Zhang GP, Qiu C, Luo HL, Zhu PQ. HOXB7 as a promising molecular marker for metastasis in cancers: a meta-analysis. Onco Targets Ther 2016; 9:2693-9. [PMID: 27274269 PMCID: PMC4869646 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s104000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies on carcinoma have revealed that the expression level of HOXB7 in cancerous tissues was significantly higher than that in noncancerous tissues. Elevated expression of HOXB7 is associated with the susceptibility to lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis in various tumors. In this study, a meta-analysis was performed to involve majority of relevant articles and explore the association of HOXB7 expression level with metastasis in cancer patients. Literature retrieval was conducted by searching in a number of electronic databases (up to December 1, 2015). The meta-analysis was conducted with RevMan 5.3 software and Stata SE12.0. A total of 1,532 patients with carcinoma from 14 studies were included in analysis. The results of meta-analysis demonstrated that lymph node metastasis was observed more frequently in the patients group with high expression level of HOXB7 than in the patients group with low expression level of HOXB7 (odds ratio =2.17, 95% CI: 1.74–2.71, P<0.00001, fixed-effects model). In addition, a similar result was observed in the association between HOXB7 expression and distant metastasis; the odds ratio was 1.77 (95% CI: 1.09–2.88, P=0.02, fixed-effects model). This meta-analysis demonstrated that the overexpression of HOXB7 was significantly associated with metastasis in cancer patients, which may be served as a common molecular marker for indicating cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Teng Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang-Xi Ou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Guan-Ping Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Qiu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Liang Luo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Pei-Qian Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
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Azim HA, Kassem L, Treilleux I, Wang Q, El Enein MA, Anis SE, Bachelot T. Analysis of PI3K/mTOR Pathway Biomarkers and Their Prognostic Value in Women with Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER2-Negative Early Breast Cancer. Transl Oncol 2016; 9:114-123. [PMID: 27084427 PMCID: PMC4833894 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 12/28/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway alterations have been shown to play significant roles in the development, progression, and metastatic spread of breast cancer. Furthermore, they have been implicated in the process of drug resistance, especially endocrinal therapies. In this study, we aimed to define the correlation between the PI3K mutations and the expression of the phosphorylated forms of different downstream molecules in women with estrogen receptor (ER)–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative (luminal) early breast cancer treated at Cairo university hospitals. METHODS: Next-generation sequencing was used to detect mutations in the PIK3CA hotspots (in exons 9 and 20). Immunohistochemistry was performed on tissue microarray blocks prepared from samples of 35 Egyptian luminal breast cancer patients in the pathology department of Centre Léon Bérard (CLB). The intensity and the percentage of stained tumor cells were integrated to define high versus low biomarker expression. The cytoplasmic and nuclear stainings were graded separately. Patients were followed for a median of 4.7 years (2.1 to 6.9 years). Correlation was done between PI3K mutations and the immunohistochemistry expression of pAKT, LKB1, p4EBP1, and pS6 ribosomal protein (pS6RP) with the clinicopathologic features and disease free survival (DFS) of the patients. RESULTS: Median age at diagnosis was 51.3 years (range, 25 to 82 years). Tumors were larger than 20 mm in 79.2% of the cases, whereas 57.9% had axillary lymph node deposits. Only 12.3% of the patients had SBR grade I tumors, 50.8% had grade II, and 36.8% had grade III. ERs were negative in 6 patients (17%) after pathology review. Thirty-two cases were assessable for LKB1 and pAKT, 33 for p4EBP1 and pS6RP, and 24 for PI3K mutations. Nuclear LKB1, cytoplasmic LKB1, nuclear pAKT, cytoplasmic pAKT, nuclear p4EBP1, and cytoplasmic pS6RP expression was high in 65.6%, 62.5%, 62.5%, 68.8%, 42.4%, and 57.6%, respectively. PIK3CA mutations were found in 7 patients (29.2%). PI3K mutations were correlated with nuclear localization of pAKT (i.e., decreased cytoplasmic pAKT, P = .04; and increased nuclear pAKT, P = .10). There was a tendency toward an inverse correlation between PI3K mutations and the expression of pS6RP (P = .10) and p4EBP1 (P = .19). Nuclear LKB1 expression was a marker of good prognosis. It was associated with smaller tumors (P = .05), more ER (P = .08) and progesteron receptor (PgR) positivity (P = .002). In the Kaplan Meier (KM) model, patients with high nuclear LKB1 had longer DFS (hazard ratio = 0.36; 95% confidence interval, 0.15-1.10; P = .08). Nuclear pAKT high expression also carried a tendency toward longer DFS (hazard ratio = 0.51; 95% confidence interval, 0.11-1.16; P = .13). The expression of p4EBP1, pS6RP, and the PI3K mutational status did not show any prognostic significance in our cohort. CONCLUSION: Among the studied biomarkers, only nuclear expression of LKB1 and pAKT tended to predict better survival in breast cancer patients. PI3K mutation was correlated with the expression of nuclear pAKT but not pS6RP or p4EBP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamdy A Azim
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Cairo University Hospital, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Loay Kassem
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Cairo University Hospital, Cairo, Egypt.
| | | | - Qing Wang
- Genomic Platform-Translational Research Laboratory, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Mona Abu El Enein
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Cairo University Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Shady E Anis
- Department of Pathology, Cairo University Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Thomas Bachelot
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
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50
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Redfern A, Burslem K, Woodward N, Beith J, McCarthy N, De Boer R, Bell R. Hormone receptor positive, HER2 negative metastatic breast cancer: Future treatment landscape. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2016; 12 Suppl 1:19-31. [PMID: 27001209 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.12492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine therapy is an established and effective treatment strategy for hormone receptor positive metastatic breast cancer. The clinical utility of endocrine therapy is lost over time due to evolving changes in tumor biology and the development of endocrine resistance. Many agents targeting the intracellular signaling pathways associated with endocrine resistance are in development. Encouraging early results have been seen for agents which directly target the estrogen receptor (ER), inhibitors of co-signaling pathways, inhibitors of ER chaperones, ER antagonists able to inhibit mutated or otherwise activated ERs, and modulators of histone acetylation restoring synthesis of ER signaling components. Following our systematic review of treatments with established benefits in this supplement, we review some of the more promising new strategies for overcoming endocrine resistance, looking at the impact on disease control and quality of life for women with hormone receptor positive, HER2 negative breast cancer. We also examine the biomarkers that may guide selection of the best therapy for the individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Redfern
- Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Katie Burslem
- WriteSource Medical Pty Ltd, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Natasha Woodward
- Mater Health Services/Mater Research Institute, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jane Beith
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nicole McCarthy
- Wesley Medical Centre, Auchenflower, and University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Richard Bell
- Deakin University, Warun Ponds, Victoria, Australia
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