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Kořánová T, Dvořáček L, Grebeňová D, Kuželová K. JR-AB2-011 induces fast metabolic changes independent of mTOR complex 2 inhibition in human leukemia cells. Pharmacol Rep 2024:10.1007/s43440-024-00649-7. [PMID: 39259491 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00649-7] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a crucial regulator of cell metabolic activity. It forms part of several distinct protein complexes, particularly mTORC1 and mTORC2. The lack of specific inhibitors still hampers the attribution of mTOR functions to these complexes. JR-AB2-011 has been reported as a specific mTORC2 inhibitor preventing mTOR binding to RICTOR, a unique component of mTORC2. We aimed to describe the effects of JR-AB2-011 in leukemia/lymphoma cells, where the mTOR pathway is often aberrantly activated. METHODS The impact of JR-AB2-011 on leukemia/lymphoma cell metabolism was analyzed using the Seahorse platform. AKT phosphorylation at Ser473 was used as a marker of mTORC2 activity. mTOR binding to RICTOR was assessed by co-immunoprecipitation. RICTOR-null cells were derived from the Karpas-299 cell line using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. RESULTS In leukemia/lymphoma cell lines, JR-AB2-011 induced a rapid drop in the cell respiration rate, which was variably compensated by an increased glycolytic rate. In contrast, an increase in the respiration rate due to JR-AB2-011 treatment was observed in primary leukemia cells. Unexpectedly, JR-AB2-011 did not affect AKT Ser473 phosphorylation. In addition, mTOR did not dissociate from RICTOR in cells treated with JR-AB2-011 under the experimental conditions used in this study. The effect of JR-AB2-011 on cell respiration was retained in RICTOR-null cells. CONCLUSION JR-AB2-011 affects leukemia/lymphoma cell metabolism via a mechanism independent of mTORC2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Kořánová
- Department of Proteomics, Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, U Nemocnice 1, Prague, 128 20, Czech Republic
| | - Lukáš Dvořáček
- Department of Proteomics, Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, U Nemocnice 1, Prague, 128 20, Czech Republic
| | - Dana Grebeňová
- Department of Proteomics, Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, U Nemocnice 1, Prague, 128 20, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Kuželová
- Department of Proteomics, Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, U Nemocnice 1, Prague, 128 20, Czech Republic.
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2
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Lv G, Wang Q, Lin L, Ye Q, Li X, Zhou Q, Kong X, Deng H, You F, Chen H, Wu S, Yuan L. mTORC2-driven chromatin cGAS mediates chemoresistance through epigenetic reprogramming in colorectal cancer. Nat Cell Biol 2024; 26:1585-1596. [PMID: 39080411 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-024-01473-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024]
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), a cytosolic DNA sensor that initiates a STING-dependent innate immune response, binds tightly to chromatin, where its catalytic activity is inhibited; however, mechanisms underlying cGAS recruitment to chromatin and functions of chromatin-bound cGAS (ccGAS) remain unclear. Here we show that mTORC2-mediated phosphorylation of human cGAS serine 37 promotes its chromatin localization in colorectal cancer cells, regulating cell growth and drug resistance independently of STING. We discovered that ccGAS recruits the SWI/SNF complex at specific chromatin regions, modifying expression of genes linked to glutaminolysis and DNA replication. Although ccGAS depletion inhibited cell growth, it induced chemoresistance to fluorouracil treatment in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, blocking kidney-type glutaminase, a downstream ccGAS target, overcame chemoresistance caused by ccGAS loss. Thus, ccGAS coordinates colorectal cancer plasticity and acquired chemoresistance through epigenetic patterning. Targeting both mTORC2-ccGAS and glutaminase provides a promising strategy to eliminate quiescent resistant cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqing Lv
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital & South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lin Lin
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qiao Ye
- Clinical Medicine Laboratory, Air Force Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Li
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Department of Computer Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiangzhen Kong
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongxia Deng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Fuping You
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Hebing Chen
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Song Wu
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital & South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Lin Yuan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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3
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Fan J, Chen B, Luo Q, Li J, Huang Y, Zhu M, Chen Z, Li J, Wang J, Liu L, Wei Q, Cao D. Potential molecular biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of bladder cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116312. [PMID: 38417288 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116312] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is a common malignant tumor of urinary system, which can be divided into muscle-invasive BC (MIBC) and nonmuscle-invasive BC (NMIBC). The number of BC patients has been gradually increasing currently. At present, bladder tumours are diagnosed and followed-up using a combination of cystoscopic examination, cytology and histology. However, the detection of early grade tumors, which is much easier to treat effectively than advanced stage disease, is still insufficient. It frequently recurs and can progress when not expeditiously diagnosed and monitored following initial therapy for NMIBC. Treatment strategies are totally different for different stage diseases. Therefore, it is of great practical significance to study new biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis. In this review, we summarize the current state of biomarker development in BC diagnosis and prognosis prediction. We retrospectively analyse eight diagnostic biomarkers and eight prognostic biomarkers, in which CK, P53, PPARγ, PTEN and ncRNA are emphasized for discussion. Eight molecular subtype systems are also identified. Clinical translation of biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, monitoring and treatment will hopefully improve outcomes for patients. These potential biomarkers provide an opportunity to diagnose tumors earlier and with greater accuracy, and help identify those patients most at risk of disease recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junping Fan
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiuping Luo
- Out-patient Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinze Li
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yin Huang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mengli Zhu
- Research Core Facility, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zeyu Chen
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liangren Liu
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Dehong Cao
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Sztankovics D, Moldvai D, Petővári G, Dankó T, Szalai F, Miyaura R, Varga V, Nagy N, Papp G, Pápay J, Krencz I, Sebestyén A. mTOR hyperactivity and RICTOR amplification as targets for personalized treatments in malignancies. Pathol Oncol Res 2024; 30:1611643. [PMID: 38515456 PMCID: PMC10954904 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2024.1611643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
The increasing knowledge of molecular alterations in malignancies, including mutations and regulatory failures in the mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) signaling pathway, highlights the importance of mTOR hyperactivity as a validated target in common and rare malignancies. This review summarises recent findings on the characterization and prognostic role of mTOR kinase complexes (mTORC1 and mTORC2) activity regarding differences in their function, structure, regulatory mechanisms, and inhibitor sensitivity. We have recently identified new tumor types with RICTOR (rapamycin-insensitive companion of mTOR) amplification and associated mTORC2 hyperactivity as useful potential targets for developing targeted therapies in lung cancer and other newly described malignancies. The activity of mTOR complexes is recommended to be assessed and considered in cancers before mTOR inhibitor therapy, as current first-generation mTOR inhibitors (rapamycin and analogs) can be ineffective in the presence of mTORC2 hyperactivity. We have introduced and proposed a marker panel to determine tissue characteristics of mTOR activity in biopsy specimens, patient materials, and cell lines. Ongoing phase trials of new inhibitors and combination therapies are promising in advanced-stage patients selected by genetic alterations, molecular markers, and/or protein expression changes in the mTOR signaling pathway. Hopefully, the summarized results, our findings, and the suggested characterization of mTOR activity will support therapeutic decisions.
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Szalai F, Sztankovics D, Krencz I, Moldvai D, Pápay J, Sebestyén A, Khoor A. Rictor-A Mediator of Progression and Metastasis in Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:543. [PMID: 38339294 PMCID: PMC10854599 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16030543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung carcinoma is one of the most common cancer types for both men and women. Despite recent breakthroughs in targeted therapy and immunotherapy, it is characterized by a high metastatic rate, which can significantly affect quality of life and prognosis. Rictor (encoded by the RICTOR gene) is known as a scaffold protein for the multiprotein complex mTORC2. Among its diverse roles in regulating essential cellular functions, mTORC2 also facilitates epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis formation. Amplification of the RICTOR gene and subsequent overexpression of the Rictor protein can result in the activation of mTORC2, which promotes cell survival and migration. Based on recent studies, RICTOR amplification or Rictor overexpression can serve as a marker for mTORC2 activation, which in turn provides a promising druggable target. Although selective inhibitors of Rictor and the Rictor-mTOR association are only in a preclinical phase, they seem to be potent novel approaches to reduce tumor cell migration and metastasis formation. Here, we summarize recent advances that support an important role for Rictor and mTORC2 as potential therapeutic targets in the treatment of lung cancer. This is a traditional (narrative) review based on Pubmed and Google Scholar searches for the following keywords: Rictor, RICTOR amplification, mTORC2, Rictor complexes, lung cancer, metastasis, progression, mTOR inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatime Szalai
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary; (F.S.); (D.S.); (I.K.); (D.M.); (J.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Dániel Sztankovics
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary; (F.S.); (D.S.); (I.K.); (D.M.); (J.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Ildikó Krencz
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary; (F.S.); (D.S.); (I.K.); (D.M.); (J.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Dorottya Moldvai
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary; (F.S.); (D.S.); (I.K.); (D.M.); (J.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Judit Pápay
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary; (F.S.); (D.S.); (I.K.); (D.M.); (J.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Anna Sebestyén
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary; (F.S.); (D.S.); (I.K.); (D.M.); (J.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Andras Khoor
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
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Sztankovics D, Krencz I, Moldvai D, Dankó T, Nagy Á, Nagy N, Bedics G, Rókusz A, Papp G, Tőkés AM, Pápay J, Sápi Z, Dezső K, Bödör C, Sebestyén A. Novel RICTOR amplification harbouring entities: FISH validation of RICTOR amplification in tumour tissue after next-generation sequencing. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19610. [PMID: 37949943 PMCID: PMC10638425 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46927-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Alterations in mTOR signalling molecules, including RICTOR amplification, have been previously described in many cancers, particularly associated with poor prognosis. In this study, RICTOR copy number variation (CNV) results of diagnostic next-generation sequencing (NGS) were analysed in 420 various human malignant tissues. RICTOR amplification was tested by Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) and validated using the "gold standard" fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH). Additionally, the consequences of Rictor protein expression were also studied by immunohistochemistry. RICTOR amplification was presumed in 37 cases with CNV ≥ 3 by NGS, among these, 16 cases (16/420; 3.8%) could be validated by FISH, however, ddPCR confirmed only 11 RICTOR-amplified cases with lower sensitivity. Based on these, neither NGS nor ddPCR could replace traditional FISH in proof of RICTOR amplification. However, NGS could be beneficial to highlight potential RICTOR-amplified cases. The obtained results of the 14 different tumour types with FISH-validated RICTOR amplification demonstrate the importance of RICTOR amplification in a broad spectrum of tumours. The newly described RICTOR-amplified entities could initiate further collaborative studies with larger cohorts to analyse the prevalence of RICTOR amplification in rare diseases. Finally, our and further work could help to improve and expand future therapeutic opportunities for mTOR-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dániel Sztankovics
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Krencz
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dorottya Moldvai
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Titanilla Dankó
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ákos Nagy
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SE Molecular Oncohematology Research Group, Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Noémi Nagy
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SE Molecular Oncohematology Research Group, Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Bedics
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SE Molecular Oncohematology Research Group, Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Rókusz
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gergő Papp
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anna-Mária Tőkés
- Department of Pathology, Forensic and Insurance Medicine, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 93, 1091, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Judit Pápay
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Sápi
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Dezső
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Csaba Bödör
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SE Molecular Oncohematology Research Group, Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anna Sebestyén
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary.
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Mehdi SJ, Ghatak K, Ling W, Johnson SK, Epstein J, Nookaew I, Zangari M, Schinke C, Thanendrarajan S, van Rhee F, Yaccoby S. Growth and dormancy control of myeloma cells by mesenchymal stem cells. Leuk Res 2023; 133:107355. [PMID: 37499483 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2023.107355] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may have contrasting impacts on the progression of multiple myeloma (MM). Priming normal MSCs, by culturing them with MM cells, mimics the MSC-induced MM growth. We studied the contrasting effects of conditioned medium (CM) from unprimed or primed MSCs on growth of MM cells from newly diagnosed cases. We elucidated potential molecular pathways using global gene expression profiling and focused on the role of the mTOR2 component, RICTOR, as a novel mediator of dormancy in MM. Primed MSCs CM consistently increased proportions of proliferating cells and supported MM growth in 3-day (n = 20) and 10-day (n = 12) cultures, effects that were partially mediated through the IGF1 axis. In contrast, unprimed MSCs CM inhibited growth of MM cells in cases mainly from stages I/II MM. The genes most overexpressed in MM cells treated with primed MSCs CM were associated with cell cycle, DNA-damage repair, and proliferation; genes most overexpressed in MM cells treated with unprimed MSCs CM were associated with dormancy pathways including RICTOR (mTOR2 pathway), CXCR4, and BCL2. RICTOR protein level was induced by unprimed MSCs CM and was lower in KI67+ proliferating MM cells treated with primed MSCs CM. RICTOR was underexpressed in clinical relapse samples compared with baseline samples of the same patients. Inhibiting RICTOR expression in primary MM cells promoted their growth, and enforced expression of RICTOR in MM cell lines inhibited their growth. Our findings suggest that, after prolonged interactions with MM cells, bone marrow MSCs shift from MM-repressive to MM-permissive. AVAILABILITY OF DATA AND MATERIALS: Our institutional GEP data of MM cells from newly diagnosed patients used to show RICTOR expression have been deposited at Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO: GSE2658, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/query/acc.cgi?acc=GSE2658).
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed J Mehdi
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Kalyan Ghatak
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Wen Ling
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Sarah K Johnson
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Joshua Epstein
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Intawat Nookaew
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Maurizio Zangari
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Carolina Schinke
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Sharmilan Thanendrarajan
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Frits van Rhee
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Shmuel Yaccoby
- Myeloma Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
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Valluri A, Wellman J, McCallister CL, Brown KC, Lawrence L, Russell R, Jensen J, Denvir J, Valentovic MA, Denning KL, Salisbury TB. mTOR Regulation of N-Myc Downstream Regulated 1 (NDRG1) Phosphorylation in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9364. [PMID: 37298315 PMCID: PMC10253553 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119364] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase is a component of two signaling complexes that are known as mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. We sought to identify mTOR-phosphorylated proteins that are differently expressed in clinically resected clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) relative to pair-matched normal renal tissue. Using a proteomic array, we found N-Myc Downstream Regulated 1 (NDRG1) showed the greatest increase (3.3-fold) in phosphorylation (on Thr346) in ccRCC. This was associated with an increase in total NDRG1. RICTOR is a required subunit in mTORC2, and its knockdown decreased total and phospho-NDRG1 (Thr346) but not NDRG1 mRNA. The dual mTORC1/2 inhibitor, Torin 2, significantly reduced (by ~100%) phospho-NDRG1 (Thr346). Rapamycin is a selective mTORC1 inhibitor that had no effect on the levels of total NDRG1 or phospho-NDRG1 (Thr346). The reduction in phospho-NDRG1 (Thr346) due to the inhibition of mTORC2 corresponded with a decrease in the percentage of live cells, which was correlated with an increase in apoptosis. Rapamycin had no effect on ccRCC cell viability. Collectively, these data show that mTORC2 mediates the phosphorylation of NDRG1 (Thr346) in ccRCC. We hypothesize that RICTOR and mTORC2-mediated phosphorylation of NDRG1 (Thr346) promotes the viability of ccRCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anisha Valluri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; (A.V.); (J.W.); (C.L.M.); (K.C.B.); (J.D.); (M.A.V.)
| | - Jessica Wellman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; (A.V.); (J.W.); (C.L.M.); (K.C.B.); (J.D.); (M.A.V.)
| | - Chelsea L. McCallister
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; (A.V.); (J.W.); (C.L.M.); (K.C.B.); (J.D.); (M.A.V.)
| | - Kathleen C. Brown
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; (A.V.); (J.W.); (C.L.M.); (K.C.B.); (J.D.); (M.A.V.)
| | - Logan Lawrence
- Cabell Huntington Hospital Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (L.L.); (R.R.); (K.L.D.)
| | - Rebecca Russell
- Cabell Huntington Hospital Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (L.L.); (R.R.); (K.L.D.)
| | - James Jensen
- Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA;
| | - James Denvir
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; (A.V.); (J.W.); (C.L.M.); (K.C.B.); (J.D.); (M.A.V.)
| | - Monica A. Valentovic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; (A.V.); (J.W.); (C.L.M.); (K.C.B.); (J.D.); (M.A.V.)
| | - Krista L. Denning
- Cabell Huntington Hospital Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (L.L.); (R.R.); (K.L.D.)
| | - Travis B. Salisbury
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; (A.V.); (J.W.); (C.L.M.); (K.C.B.); (J.D.); (M.A.V.)
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Privalova V, Labecka AM, Szlachcic E, Sikorska A, Czarnoleski M. Systemic changes in cell size throughout the body of Drosophila melanogaster associated with mutations in molecular cell cycle regulators. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7565. [PMID: 37160985 PMCID: PMC10169805 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34674-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Along with different life strategies, organisms have evolved dramatic cellular composition differences. Understanding the molecular basis and fitness effects of these differences is key to elucidating the fundamental characteristics of life. TOR/insulin pathways are key regulators of cell size, but whether their activity determines cell size in a systemic or tissue-specific manner awaits exploration. To that end, we measured cells in four tissues in genetically modified Drosophila melanogaster (rictorΔ2 and Mnt1) and corresponding controls. While rictorΔ2 flies lacked the Rictor protein in TOR complex 2, downregulating the functions of this element in TOR/insulin pathways, Mnt1 flies lacked the transcriptional regulator protein Mnt, weakening the suppression of downstream signalling from TOR/insulin pathways. rictorΔ2 flies had smaller epidermal (leg and wing) and ommatidial cells and Mnt1 flies had larger cells in these tissues than the controls. Females had consistently larger cells than males in the three tissue types. In contrast, dorsal longitudinal flight muscle cells (measured only in males) were not altered by mutations. We suggest that mutations in cell cycle control pathways drive the evolution of systemic changes in cell size throughout the body, but additional mechanisms shape the cellular composition of some tissues independent of these mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeriya Privalova
- Life History Evolution Group, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Maria Labecka
- Life History Evolution Group, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewa Szlachcic
- Life History Evolution Group, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Sikorska
- Life History Evolution Group, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Marcin Czarnoleski
- Life History Evolution Group, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Kraków, Poland.
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AlShail E, Alahmari AN, Dababo AAM, Alsagob M, Al-Hindi H, Khalil H, Al Masseri Z, AlSalamah R, Almohseny E, Alduhaish A, Colak D, Kaya N. A molecular study of pediatric pilomyxoid and pilocytic astrocytomas: Genome-wide copy number screening, retrospective analysis of clinicopathological features and long-term clinical outcome. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1034292. [PMID: 36860324 PMCID: PMC9968872 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1034292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pilocytic Astrocytoma (PA) is the most common pediatric brain tumors. PAs are slow-growing tumors with high survival rates. However, a distinct subgroup of tumors defined as pilomyxoid astrocytoma (PMA) presents unique histological characteristics and have more aggressive clinical course. The studies on genetics of PMA are scarce. Methods In this study, we report one of the largest cohort of pediatric patients with pilomyxoid (PMA) and pilocytic astrocytomas (PA) in Saudi population providing a comprehensive clinical picture, retrospective analysis with long-term follow-up, genome-wide copy number changes, and clinical outcome of these pediatric tumors. We examined and compared genome-wide copy number aberrations (CNAs) and the clinical outcome of the patients with PA and PMA. Results The median progression free survival for the whole cohort was 156 months and it was 111 months for the PMA, however, not statistically significantly different between the groups (log-rank test, P = 0.726). We have identified 41 CNAs (34 gains and 7 losses) in all tested patients. Our study yielded the previously reported KIAA1549-BRAF Fusion gene in over 88% of the tested patients (89% and 80% in PMA and PA, respectively). Besides the fusion gene, twelve patients had additional genomic CNAs. Furthermore, pathway and gene network analyses of genes in the fusion region revealed alterations in retinoic acid mediated apoptosis and MAPK signaling pathways and key hub genes that may potentially be involved in tumor growth and progression, including BRAF, LUC7L2, MKRN1, RICTOR, TP53, HIPK2, HNF4A, POU5F, and SOX4. Conclusion Our study is the first report of a large cohort of patients with PMA and PA in the Saudi population that provides detailed clinical features, genomic copy number changes, and outcome of these pediatric tumors and may help better diagnosis and characterization of PMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Essam AlShail
- Department of Neurosciences, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Nasser Alahmari
- Department of Neurosciences, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anas A. M. Dababo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maysoon Alsagob
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Applied Genomics Technologies Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hindi Al-Hindi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hala Khalil
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Scientific Computing, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainab Al Masseri
- Medical Genetics Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Razan AlSalamah
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ethar Almohseny
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad Alduhaish
- Neuroscience Department, King Abdullah Medical City, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dilek Colak
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,*Correspondence: Namik Kaya, ; ; Dilek Colak,
| | - Namik Kaya
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,*Correspondence: Namik Kaya, ; ; Dilek Colak,
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11
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Winkelmann R, Bankov K, Döring C, Cinatl J, Grothe S, Rothweiler F, Michaelis M, Schmitt C, Wild PJ, Demes M, Cinatl J, Vallo S. Increased HRD score in cisplatin resistant penile cancer cells. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1352. [PMID: 36564761 PMCID: PMC9789628 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10432-7] [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: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/INTRODUCTION Penile cancer is a rare disease in demand for new therapeutic options. Frequently used combination chemotherapy with 5 fluorouracil (5-FU) and cisplatin (CDDP) in patients with metastatic penile cancer mostly results in the development of acquired drug resistance. Availability of cell culture models with acquired resistance against standard therapy could help to understand molecular mechanisms underlying chemotherapy resistance and to identify candidate treatments for an efficient second line therapy. METHODS We generated a cell line from a humanpapilloma virus (HPV) negative penile squamous cell carcinoma (UKF-PEC-1). This cell line was subject to chronic exposure to chemotherapy with CDDP and / or 5-FU to induce acquired resistance in the newly established chemo-resistant sublines (PEC-1rCDDP2500, adapted to 2500 ng/ml CDDP; UKF-PEC-1r5-FU500, adapted to 500 ng/ml 5- FU; UKF-PEC1rCDDP2500/r5-FU500, adapted to 2500 ng/ml CDDP and 500 ng/ml 5 -FU). Afterwards cell line pellets were formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded and subject to sequencing as well as testing for homologous recombination deficiency (HRD). Additionally, exemplary immunohistochemical stainings for p53 and gammaH2AX were applied for verification purposes. Finally, UKF-PEC-1rCDDP2500, UKF-PEC-1r5-FU500, UKF-PEC1rCDDP2500/r5-FU500, and UKF-PEC-3 (an alternative penis cancer cell line) were tested for sensitivity to paclitaxel, docetaxel, olaparib, and rucaparib. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The chemo-resistant sublines differed in their mutational landscapes. UKF-PEC-1rCDDP2500 was characterized by an increased HRD score, which is supposed to be associated with increased PARP inhibitor and immune checkpoint inhibitor sensitivity in cancer. However, UKF-PEC-1rCDDP2500 did not display sensitivity to PARP inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ria Winkelmann
- grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Katrin Bankov
- grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Claudia Döring
- grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian Grothe
- Dr. Petra Joh Forschungshaus, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany ,grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Institute of Medical Virology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Florian Rothweiler
- Dr. Petra Joh Forschungshaus, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany ,grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Institute of Medical Virology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Martin Michaelis
- grid.9759.20000 0001 2232 2818School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Christina Schmitt
- grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Peter J. Wild
- grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany ,grid.417999.b0000 0000 9260 4223Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (FIAS), Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Melanie Demes
- grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Jindrich Cinatl
- Dr. Petra Joh Forschungshaus, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany ,grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Institute of Medical Virology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Stefan Vallo
- grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Institute of Medical Virology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany ,grid.411088.40000 0004 0578 8220Department of Urology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany ,Urologie an der Zeil, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
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12
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Application of mTORC1 Inhibitors for Tissue-Agnostic Management of Standard-Therapy-Refractory Solid Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14081936. [PMID: 35454843 PMCID: PMC9032789 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In this analysis, we examined the efficacy, feasibility, and limitations of the application of mTOR inhibitors based on the individual molecular profiles of pretreated cancer patients after the failure of all standard treatments in the palliative setting. In this single-center, real-world analysis of our platform for precision medicine, we analyzed the molecular characteristics of 71 cancer patients. The tumor samples of the patients were analyzed using next-generation sequencing panels of mutation hotspots, microsatellite stability testing, and immunohistochemistry. All profiles were reviewed by a multidisciplinary team to provide a targeted treatment recommendation after a consensus discussion. Seventy-one cancer patients with activation of the mTOR pathway were offered an mTORC1-inhibitor-based targeted therapy, and twenty-three (32.4%) of them eventually received the targeted therapy. Only three patients (4.2%) achieved stable disease, of whom one experienced progressive disease again after 9.1 months. The median time to treatment failure was 2.8 months. In total, 110 mutations were detected in 60 patients (84.5%). The three most frequent mutations were found in TP53, PTEN, and KRAS, which accounted for over 50% (56.4%) of all mutations. In sum, in selected patients with heavily pretreated solid tumors with activation of the mTOR pathway, the antitumoral activity of mTORC1 inhibition was weak.
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13
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Simcox J, Lamming DW. The central moTOR of metabolism. Dev Cell 2022; 57:691-706. [PMID: 35316619 PMCID: PMC9004513 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2022.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The protein kinase mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) functions as a central regulator of metabolism, integrating diverse nutritional and hormonal cues to control anabolic processes, organismal physiology, and even aging. This review discusses the current state of knowledge regarding the regulation of mTOR signaling and the metabolic regulation of the four macromolecular building blocks of the cell: carbohydrate, nucleic acid, lipid, and protein by mTOR. We review the role of mTOR in the control of organismal physiology and aging through its action in key tissues and discuss the potential for clinical translation of mTOR inhibition for the treatment and prevention of diseases of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Simcox
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Dudley W Lamming
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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14
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Mafi S, Mansoori B, Taeb S, Sadeghi H, Abbasi R, Cho WC, Rostamzadeh D. mTOR-Mediated Regulation of Immune Responses in Cancer and Tumor Microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 12:774103. [PMID: 35250965 PMCID: PMC8894239 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.774103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a downstream mediator in the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathways, which plays a pivotal role in regulating numerous cellular functions including cell growth, proliferation, survival, and metabolism by integrating a variety of extracellular and intracellular signals in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Dysregulation of the mTOR pathway is frequently reported in many types of human tumors, and targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway has been considered an attractive potential therapeutic target in cancer. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling transduction pathway is important not only in the development and progression of cancers but also for its critical regulatory role in the tumor microenvironment. Immunologically, mTOR is emerging as a key regulator of immune responses. The mTOR signaling pathway plays an essential regulatory role in the differentiation and function of both innate and adaptive immune cells. Considering the central role of mTOR in metabolic and translational reprogramming, it can affect tumor-associated immune cells to undergo phenotypic and functional reprogramming in TME. The mTOR-mediated inflammatory response can also promote the recruitment of immune cells to TME, resulting in exerting the anti-tumor functions or promoting cancer cell growth, progression, and metastasis. Thus, deregulated mTOR signaling in cancer can modulate the TME, thereby affecting the tumor immune microenvironment. Here, we review the current knowledge regarding the crucial role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in controlling and shaping the immune responses in TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Mafi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Behzad Mansoori
- The Wistar Institute, Molecular & Cellular Oncogenesis Program, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Shahram Taeb
- Department of Radiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
- Medical Biotechnology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Hossein Sadeghi
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Reza Abbasi
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - William C. Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Davoud Rostamzadeh, ; ; William C. Cho, ;
| | - Davoud Rostamzadeh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
- *Correspondence: Davoud Rostamzadeh, ; ; William C. Cho, ;
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15
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Sebestyén A, Dankó T, Sztankovics D, Moldvai D, Raffay R, Cervi C, Krencz I, Zsiros V, Jeney A, Petővári G. The role of metabolic ecosystem in cancer progression — metabolic plasticity and mTOR hyperactivity in tumor tissues. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 40:989-1033. [PMID: 35029792 PMCID: PMC8825419 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-10006-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite advancements in cancer management, tumor relapse and metastasis are associated with poor outcomes in many cancers. Over the past decade, oncogene-driven carcinogenesis, dysregulated cellular signaling networks, dynamic changes in the tissue microenvironment, epithelial-mesenchymal transitions, protein expression within regulatory pathways, and their part in tumor progression are described in several studies. However, the complexity of metabolic enzyme expression is considerably under evaluated. Alterations in cellular metabolism determine the individual phenotype and behavior of cells, which is a well-recognized hallmark of cancer progression, especially in the adaptation mechanisms underlying therapy resistance. In metabolic symbiosis, cells compete, communicate, and even feed each other, supervised by tumor cells. Metabolic reprogramming forms a unique fingerprint for each tumor tissue, depending on the cellular content and genetic, epigenetic, and microenvironmental alterations of the developing cancer. Based on its sensing and effector functions, the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase is considered the master regulator of metabolic adaptation. Moreover, mTOR kinase hyperactivity is associated with poor prognosis in various tumor types. In situ metabolic phenotyping in recent studies highlights the importance of metabolic plasticity, mTOR hyperactivity, and their role in tumor progression. In this review, we update recent developments in metabolic phenotyping of the cancer ecosystem, metabolic symbiosis, and plasticity which could provide new research directions in tumor biology. In addition, we suggest pathomorphological and analytical studies relating to metabolic alterations, mTOR activity, and their associations which are necessary to improve understanding of tumor heterogeneity and expand the therapeutic management of cancer.
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16
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Huynh H, Levitz R, Huang R, Kahn JS. mTOR kinase is a therapeutic target for respiratory syncytial virus and coronaviruses. Sci Rep 2021; 11:24442. [PMID: 34952911 PMCID: PMC8709853 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03814-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic interventions targeting viral infections remain a significant challenge for both the medical and scientific communities. While specific antiviral agents have shown success as therapeutics, viral resistance inevitably develops, making many of these approaches ineffective. This inescapable obstacle warrants alternative approaches, such as the targeting of host cellular factors. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the major respiratory pathogen of infants and children worldwide, causes respiratory tract infection ranging from mild upper respiratory tract symptoms to severe life-threatening lower respiratory tract disease. Despite the fact that the molecular biology of the virus, which was originally discovered in 1956, is well described, there is no vaccine or effective antiviral treatment against RSV infection. Here, we demonstrate that targeting host factors, specifically, mTOR signaling, reduces RSV protein production and generation of infectious progeny virus. Further, we show that this approach can be generalizable as inhibition of mTOR kinases reduces coronavirus gene expression, mRNA transcription and protein production. Overall, defining virus replication-dependent host functions may be an effective means to combat viral infections, particularly in the absence of antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- HoangDinh Huynh
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Ruth Levitz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Rong Huang
- Department of Research Administration Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75235, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Kahn
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
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Joechle K, Guenzle J, Hellerbrand C, Strnad P, Cramer T, Neumann UP, Lang SA. Role of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 in primary and secondary liver cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 13:1632-1647. [PMID: 34853640 PMCID: PMC8603445 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v13.i11.1632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) acts in two structurally and functionally distinct protein complexes, mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2). Upon deregulation, activated mTOR signaling is associated with multiple processes involved in tumor growth and metastasis. Compared with mTORC1, much less is known about mTORC2 in cancer, mainly because of the unavailability of a selective inhibitor. However, existing data suggest that mTORC2 with its two distinct subunits Rictor and mSin1 might play a more important role than assumed so far. It is one of the key effectors of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and stimulates cell growth, cell survival, metabolism, and cytoskeletal organization. It is not only implicated in tumor progression, metastasis, and the tumor microenvironment but also in resistance to therapy. Rictor, the central subunit of mTORC2, was found to be upregulated in different kinds of cancers and is associated with advanced tumor stages and a bad prognosis. Moreover, AKT, the main downstream regulator of mTORC2/Rictor, is one of the most highly activated proteins in cancer. Primary and secondary liver cancer are major problems for current cancer therapy due to the lack of specific medical treatment, emphasizing the need for further therapeutic options. This review, therefore, summarizes the role of mTORC2/Rictor in cancer, with special focus on primary liver cancer but also on liver metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Joechle
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälisch Technische Hochschule Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Jessica Guenzle
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg 79106, Germany
| | - Claus Hellerbrand
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälisch Technische Hochschule Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Thorsten Cramer
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälisch Technische Hochschule Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Ulf Peter Neumann
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälisch Technische Hochschule Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Sven Arke Lang
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälisch Technische Hochschule Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
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RICTOR Affects Melanoma Tumorigenesis and Its Resistance to Targeted Therapy. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101498. [PMID: 34680615 PMCID: PMC8533235 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The network defined by phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), AKT, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) plays a major role in melanoma oncogenesis and has been implicated in BRAF inhibitor resistance. The central role of RICTOR (rapamycin-insensitive companion of mTOR) in this pathway has only recently begun to be unraveled. In the present study, we assessed the role of mTORC2/RICTOR in BRAF-mutated melanomas and their resistance to BRAF inhibition. We showed that RICTOR was significantly overexpressed in melanoma and associated with bad prognoses. RICTOR overexpression stimulated melanoma-initiating cells (MICs) with ‘stemness’ properties. We also showed that RICTOR contributed to melanoma resistance to BRAF inhibitors and rendered the cells very sensitive to mTORC2 inhibition. We highlighted a connection between mTORC2/RICTOR and STAT3 in resistant cells and revealed an interaction between RAS and RICTOR in resistant melanoma, which, when disrupted, impeded the proliferation of resistant cells. Therefore, as a key signaling node, RICTOR contributes to BRAF-dependent melanoma development and resistance to therapy and, as such, is a valuable therapeutic target in melanoma.
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Gatti G, Vilardo L, Musa C, Di Pietro C, Bonaventura F, Scavizzi F, Torcinaro A, Bucci B, Saporito R, Arisi I, De Santa F, Raspa M, Guglielmi L, D’Agnano I. Role of Lamin A/C as Candidate Biomarker of Aggressiveness and Tumorigenicity in Glioblastoma Multiforme. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101343. [PMID: 34680461 PMCID: PMC8533312 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear lamina components have long been regarded as scaffolding proteins, forming a dense fibrillar structure necessary for the maintenance of the nucleus shape in all the animal kingdom. More recently, mutations, aberrant localisation and deregulation of these proteins have been linked to several diseases, including cancer. Using publicly available data we found that the increased expression levels of the nuclear protein Lamin A/C correlate with a reduced overall survival in The Cancer Genome Atlas Research Network (TCGA) patients affected by glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). We show that the expression of the LMNA gene is linked to the enrichment of cancer-related pathways, particularly pathways related to cell adhesion and cell migration. Mimicking the modulation of LMNA in a GBM preclinical cancer model, we confirmed both in vitro and in vivo that the increased expression of LMNA is associated with an increased aggressiveness and tumorigenicity. In addition, delving into the possible mechanism behind LMNA-induced GBM aggressiveness and tumorigenicity, we found that the mTORC2 component, Rictor, plays a central role in mediating these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliana Gatti
- Department of Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy;
| | - Laura Vilardo
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies (ITB), CNR, 20054 Segrate, Italy; (L.V.); (C.M.)
| | - Carla Musa
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies (ITB), CNR, 20054 Segrate, Italy; (L.V.); (C.M.)
| | - Chiara Di Pietro
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), CNR, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy; (C.D.P.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (A.T.); (F.D.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Fabrizio Bonaventura
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), CNR, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy; (C.D.P.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (A.T.); (F.D.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Ferdinando Scavizzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), CNR, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy; (C.D.P.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (A.T.); (F.D.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Alessio Torcinaro
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), CNR, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy; (C.D.P.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (A.T.); (F.D.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Barbara Bucci
- UOC Clinical Pathology, San Pietro Hospital FBF, 00189 Rome, Italy; (B.B.); (R.S.)
| | - Raffaele Saporito
- UOC Clinical Pathology, San Pietro Hospital FBF, 00189 Rome, Italy; (B.B.); (R.S.)
| | - Ivan Arisi
- Bioinformatics Facility, European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) “Rita Levi Montalcini”, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Francesca De Santa
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), CNR, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy; (C.D.P.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (A.T.); (F.D.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Marcello Raspa
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), CNR, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy; (C.D.P.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (A.T.); (F.D.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Loredana Guglielmi
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies (ITB), CNR, 20054 Segrate, Italy; (L.V.); (C.M.)
- Correspondence: (L.G.); (I.D.)
| | - Igea D’Agnano
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies (ITB), CNR, 20054 Segrate, Italy; (L.V.); (C.M.)
- Correspondence: (L.G.); (I.D.)
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20
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Bratslavsky G, Sokol ES, Daneshvar M, Necchi A, Shapiro O, Jacob J, Liu N, Sanford TS, Pinkhasov R, Goldberg H, Killian JK, Ramkissoon S, Severson EA, Huang RSP, Danziger N, Mollapour M, Ross JS, Pacak K. Clinically Advanced Pheochromocytomas and Paragangliomas: A Comprehensive Genomic Profiling Study. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133312. [PMID: 34282751 PMCID: PMC8268679 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Clinically advanced pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are a rare form of endocrine malignancy which can occur in familial and sporadic clinical settings and feature a variety of genomic alterations. Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) was performed to characterize the genomic alterations (GA) in clinically advanced disease to enable the search for potential therapy targets. Although the GA/tumor is relatively low for clinically advanced disease, CGP can reveal important potential targets for therapy in the metastatic setting including RET, NF1 and FGFR1. Based on this data, further study of CGP as a method of developing precision therapies for clinically advanced disease appears warranted. Abstract Patients with clinically advanced paragangliomas (CA-Para) and pheochromocytomas (CA-Pheo) have limited surgical or systemic treatments. We used comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) to compare genomic alterations (GA) in CA-Para and CA-Pheo to identify potential therapeutic targets. Eighty-three CA-Para and 45 CA-Pheo underwent hybrid-capture-based CGP using a targeted panel of 324 genes. Tumor mutational burden (TMB) and microsatellite instability (MSI) were determined. The GA/tumor frequencies were low for both tumor types (1.9 GA/tumor for CA-Para, 2.3 GA/tumor for CA-Pheo). The most frequent potentially targetable GA in CA-Para were in FGFR1 (7%, primarily amplifications), NF1, PTEN, NF2, and CDK4 (all 2%) and for CA-Pheo in RET (9%, primarily fusions), NF1 (11%) and FGFR1 (7%). Germline mutations in known cancer predisposition genes were predicted in 13 (30%) of CA-Pheo and 38 (45%) of CA-Para cases, predominantly involving SDHA/B genes. Both CA-Para and CA-Para had low median TMB, low PD-L1 expression levels and none had MSI high status. While similar GA frequency is seen in both CA-Para and CA-Para, germline GA were seen more frequently in CA-Para. Low PD-L1 expression levels and no MSI high status argue against strong potential for novel immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, several important potential therapeutic targets in both CA-Para and CA-Para are identified using CGP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennady Bratslavsky
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-315-464-4473
| | - Ethan S. Sokol
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA 021411, USA; (E.S.S.); (J.K.K.); (S.R.); (E.A.S.); (R.S.P.H.); (N.D.)
| | - Michael Daneshvar
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
| | | | - Oleg Shapiro
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
| | - Joseph Jacob
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
| | - Nick Liu
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
| | - Tom S. Sanford
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
| | - Ruben Pinkhasov
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
| | - Hanan Goldberg
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
| | - Jonathan K. Killian
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA 021411, USA; (E.S.S.); (J.K.K.); (S.R.); (E.A.S.); (R.S.P.H.); (N.D.)
| | - Shakti Ramkissoon
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA 021411, USA; (E.S.S.); (J.K.K.); (S.R.); (E.A.S.); (R.S.P.H.); (N.D.)
| | - Eric A. Severson
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA 021411, USA; (E.S.S.); (J.K.K.); (S.R.); (E.A.S.); (R.S.P.H.); (N.D.)
| | - Richard S. P. Huang
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA 021411, USA; (E.S.S.); (J.K.K.); (S.R.); (E.A.S.); (R.S.P.H.); (N.D.)
| | - Natalie Danziger
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA 021411, USA; (E.S.S.); (J.K.K.); (S.R.); (E.A.S.); (R.S.P.H.); (N.D.)
| | - Mehdi Mollapour
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
| | - Jeffrey S. Ross
- Departments of Urology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; (M.D.); (O.S.); (J.J.); (N.L.); (T.S.S.); (R.P.); (H.G.); (M.M.); (J.S.R.)
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA 021411, USA; (E.S.S.); (J.K.K.); (S.R.); (E.A.S.); (R.S.P.H.); (N.D.)
| | - Karel Pacak
- Section on Medical Neuroendocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
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21
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mTORC2 regulates ribonucleotide reductase to promote DNA replication and gemcitabine resistance in non-small cell lung cancer. Neoplasia 2021; 23:643-652. [PMID: 34126361 PMCID: PMC8215139 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) is the key enzyme that catalyzes the production of deoxyribonucleotides (dNTPs) for DNA replication and it is also essential for cancer cell proliferation. As the RNR inhibitor, Gemcitabine is widely used in cancer therapies, however, resistance limits its therapeutic efficacy and curative potential. Here, we identified that mTORC2 is a main driver of gemcitabine resistance in non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC). Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of mTORC2 greatly enhanced gemcitabine induced cytotoxicity and DNA damage. Mechanistically, mTORC2 directly interacted and phosphorylated RNR large subunit RRM1 at Ser 631. Ser631 phosphorylation of RRM1 enhanced its interaction with small subunit RRM2 to maintain sufficient RNR enzymatic activity for efficient DNA replication. Targeting mTORC2 retarded DNA replication fork progression and improved therapeutic efficacy of gemcitabine in NSCLC xenograft model in vivo. Thus, these results identified a mechanism through mTORC2 regulating RNR activity and DNA replication, conferring gemcitabine resistance to cancer cells.
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22
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Zhao Y, Geng H, Liu G, Ji Q, Cheng X, Li X, Liu W, Thorne RF, Zhang R, Liu X. The Deubiquitinase USP39 Promotes ESCC Tumorigenesis Through Pre-mRNA Splicing of the mTORC2 Component Rictor. Front Oncol 2021; 11:667495. [PMID: 34123832 PMCID: PMC8189149 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.667495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Spliceosomes are large RNA-protein molecular complexes which mediate splicing of pre-mRNA in eukaryotic cells. Their function is frequently altered in cancer, providing opportunities for novel therapeutic approaches. The ubiquitin specific protease 39 (USP39) is a highly conserved deubiquitylation family member that plays an essential role in pre-mRNA splicing where it serves to assemble the mature spliceosome complex. Previous studies have reported that USP39 acts in an oncogenic manner where it contributes to cancer progression and predicts poor prognosis in various human tumor types. Here we report that USP39 is differentially upregulated in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and its expression is significantly associated with clinicopathological characteristics including differentiation status and TNM stage. We found the USP39 upregulation was maintained in ESCC cell lines where it functioned to promote cancer cell growth in vitro and in xenografts. RNA-seq analyses identified that mTOR pathway activation was affected by shRNA-mediated silencing of USP39. Subsequent biochemical analyses demonstrated that USP39 regulates the activity of mTORC2 by selectively enhancing the splicing and maturation of Rictor mRNA, although not other key mTORC components. Together, our report proposes USP39 as a biomarker and oncogenic factor in ESCC, with a potential for targeting the USP39/mTOR2/Rictor axis as a therapeutic strategy. Furthermore, our study adds ESCC to the list of cancers where USP39 contributes to tumorigenesis and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Huiwu Geng
- Biology Department, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Biology Department, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qiang Ji
- Biology Department, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Molecular Pathology Centre, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaomin Cheng
- Biology Department, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xinying Li
- Biology Department, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Rick F Thorne
- Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Molecular Pathology Centre, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Renquan Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoying Liu
- Biology Department, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Molecular Pathology Centre, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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23
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Astudillo P. A Non-canonical Wnt Signature Correlates With Lower Survival in Gastric Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:633675. [PMID: 33869179 PMCID: PMC8047116 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.633675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic evidence suggests a role for the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in gastric cancer. However, Wnt5a, regarded as a prototypical non-canonical Wnt ligand, has also been extensively associated with this disease. Therefore, the roles of the Wnt signaling pathway in gastric cancer initiation and progression, and particularly the precise mechanisms by which the non-canonical Wnt pathway might promote the development and progression of gastric cancer, are not entirely well understood. This article analyzes publicly available gene and protein expression data and reveals the existence of a WNT5A/FZD2/FZD7/ROR2 signature, which correlates with tumor-infiltrating and mesenchymal cell marker expression. High expression of FZD7 and ROR2 correlates with a shared gene and protein expression profile, which in turn correlates with poor prognosis. In summary, the findings presented in this article provide an updated view of the relative contributions of the Wnt/β-catenin and non-canonical Wnt pathways in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Astudillo
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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24
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Yin S, Liu L, Gan W. The Roles of Post-Translational Modifications on mTOR Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041784. [PMID: 33670113 PMCID: PMC7916890 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a master regulator of cell growth, proliferation, and metabolism by integrating various environmental inputs including growth factors, nutrients, and energy, among others. mTOR signaling has been demonstrated to control almost all fundamental cellular processes, such as nucleotide, protein and lipid synthesis, autophagy, and apoptosis. Over the past fifteen years, mapping the network of the mTOR pathway has dramatically advanced our understanding of its upstream and downstream signaling. Dysregulation of the mTOR pathway is frequently associated with a variety of human diseases, such as cancers, metabolic diseases, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders. Besides genetic alterations, aberrancies in post-translational modifications (PTMs) of the mTOR components are the major causes of the aberrant mTOR signaling in a number of pathologies. In this review, we summarize current understanding of PTMs-mediated regulation of mTOR signaling, and also update the progress on targeting the mTOR pathway and PTM-related enzymes for treatment of human diseases.
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25
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Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Signaling Activation Antagonizes Autophagy To Facilitate Zika Virus Replication. J Virol 2020; 94:JVI.01575-20. [PMID: 32878890 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01575-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV), a mosquito-transmitted flavivirus, is linked to microcephaly and other neurological defects in neonates and Guillain-Barré syndrome in adults. The molecular mechanisms regulating ZIKV infection and pathogenic outcomes are incompletely understood. Signaling by the mechanistic (mammalian) target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase is important for cell survival and proliferation, and viruses are known to hijack this pathway for their replication. Here, we show that in human neuronal precursors and glial cells in culture, ZIKV infection activates both mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. Inhibition of mTOR kinase by Torin1 or rapamycin results in reduction in ZIKV protein expression and progeny production. Depletion of Raptor, the defining subunit of mTORC1, by small interfering RNA (siRNA) negatively affects ZIKV protein expression and viral replication. Although depletion of Rictor, the unique subunit of mTORC2, or the mTOR kinase itself also inhibits the viral processes, the extent of inhibition is less pronounced. Autophagy is transiently induced early by ZIKV infection, and impairment of autophagosome elongation by the class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) enhances viral protein accumulation and progeny production. mTOR phosphorylates and inactivates ULK1 (S757) at later stages of ZIKV infection, suggesting a link between autophagy inhibition and mTOR activation by ZIKV. Accordingly, inhibition of ULK1 (by MRT68921) or autophagy (by 3-MA) reversed the effects of mTOR inhibition, leading to increased levels of ZIKV protein expression and progeny production. Our results demonstrate that ZIKV replication requires the activation of both mTORC1 and mTORC2, which negatively regulates autophagy to facilitate ZIKV replication.IMPORTANCE The re-emergence of Zika virus (ZIKV) and its association with neurological complications necessitates studies on the molecular mechanisms that regulate ZIKV pathogenesis. The mTOR signaling cascade is tightly regulated and central to normal neuronal development and survival. Disruption of mTOR signaling can result in neurological abnormalities. In the studies reported here, we demonstrate for the first time that ZIKV infection results in activation of both mTORC1 and mTORC2 to promote virus replication. Although autophagy is activated early in infection to counter virus replication, it is subsequently suppressed by mTOR. These results reveal critical roles of mTOR signaling and autophagy in ZIKV infection and point to a possible mechanism underlying ZIKV-induced pathogenesis. Elucidating the role of mTOR signaling in ZIKV infection will provide insights into the mechanisms of ZIKV-induced neurological complications and potential targets for therapeutic approaches.
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26
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Abstract
The Ras oncogene is notoriously difficult to target with specific therapeutics. Consequently, there is interest to better understand the Ras signaling pathways to identify potential targetable effectors. Recently, the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) was identified as an evolutionarily conserved Ras effector. mTORC2 regulates essential cellular processes, including metabolism, survival, growth, proliferation and migration. Moreover, increasing evidence implicate mTORC2 in oncogenesis. Little is known about the regulation of mTORC2 activity, but proposed mechanisms include a role for phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate - which is produced by class I phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3Ks), well-characterized Ras effectors. Therefore, the relationship between Ras, PI3K and mTORC2, in both normal physiology and cancer is unclear; moreover, seemingly conflicting observations have been reported. Here, we review the evidence on potential links between Ras, PI3K and mTORC2. Interestingly, data suggest that Ras and PI3K are both direct regulators of mTORC2 but that they act on distinct pools of mTORC2: Ras activates mTORC2 at the plasma membrane, whereas PI3K activates mTORC2 at intracellular compartments. Consequently, we propose a model to explain how Ras and PI3K can differentially regulate mTORC2, and highlight the diversity in the mechanisms of mTORC2 regulation, which appear to be determined by the stimulus, cell type, and the molecularly and spatially distinct mTORC2 pools.
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27
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Zeng Z, Yang F, Wang Y, Zhao H, Wei F, Zhang P, Zhang X, Ren X. Significantly different immunological score in lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma and a proposal for a new immune staging system. Oncoimmunology 2020; 9:1828538. [PMID: 33101777 PMCID: PMC7553570 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2020.1828538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
TNM stage is not enough to accurately predict the prognosis of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study aimed to establish the immunological score (IS) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC), separately, and propose a new staging system in NSCLC. We used the multiplex fluorescent immunohistochemistry (mIHC) technology to detect 17 immune biomarkers of 304 patients with NSCLC. The LASSO-COX regression model was used to establish the ISNSCLC in the training cohorts. The ISNSCLC was then validated in the validation cohort. The constructed ISLUAD contained three immune features: CD4+CD73+ core of tumor (CT), PD-L1+ CT, and IDO+ invasive margin (IM). ISLUSC also contained two immune features: CD8+CD39-CD73- CT, CD8+Tim-3+ IM. In the training cohort, significant prognostic differences were found upon comparing low-ISNSCLC patients with high-ISNSCLC patients. For LUAD, the 5-y disease-free survival (DFS) rates were 54.7% vs. 8.1% and the 5-y overall survival (OS) rates were 82.4% vs. 36% (all P< .0001). For LUSC, the 5-y DFS rates were 74.0% vs. 14.7% and the 5-y OS rates were 78.2% vs. 17.6% (all P< .0001). Multivariate analyses indicated that ISNSCLC was an independent indicator for prognosis. Finally, we combined ISNSCLC with clinicopathological factors to establish a TN-I staging system and two nomogram models for clinical use. The TN-I stage had better prediction accuracy than TNM stage. The newly established ISLUAD and ISLUSC were completely different, and both were excellent indicators for the prognostic prediction. The TN-I stage could effectively improve prognostic accuracy and facilitate clinical application. Abbreviations NSCLC, non-small cell lung cancer; IS, immunological score; mIHC, multiplex fluorescent immunohistochemistry; LUAD, lung adenocarcinoma; LUSC, lung squamous cell carcinoma; CT, core of tumor; IM, invasive margin; DFS, disease-free survival; OS, overall survival; SITC, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer; FFPE, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded; MWT, microwave treatment; DCA, decision curve analysis; ROC, receiver operating characteristic; AUC, area under the curve; EGFR, epidermal growth factor receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqing Zeng
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China,Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Fan Yang
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China,Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China,Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yunliang Wang
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China,Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China,Department of Oncology, First Central Hospital of Baoding of Hebei Province, Baoding, China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China,Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Feng Wei
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China,Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China,Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiying Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China,Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China,Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China,Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,CONTACT Xiubao Ren Department of Biotherapy and Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin300060, China
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28
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Fu W, Hall MN. Regulation of mTORC2 Signaling. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E1045. [PMID: 32899613 PMCID: PMC7564249 DOI: 10.3390/genes11091045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a serine/threonine protein kinase and a master regulator of cell growth and metabolism, forms two structurally and functionally distinct complexes, mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. While mTORC1 signaling is well characterized, mTORC2 is relatively poorly understood. mTORC2 appears to exist in functionally distinct pools, but few mTORC2 effectors/substrates have been identified. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of mTORC2 signaling, with particular emphasis on factors that control mTORC2 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiang Fu
- Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
- Biozentrum, University of Basel, CH4056 Basel, Switzerland;
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29
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Watanabe R, Miyata M, Oneyama C. Rictor promotes tumor progression of rapamycin-insensitive triple-negative breast cancer cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 531:636-642. [PMID: 32819718 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), characterized by decreased expression of hormone receptors and human epidermal growth factor type 2 receptor, has poor prognosis and lacks effective therapeutics. Recently, the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin and its analogs have attracted growing interests and evaluated as therapeutic agents against TNBC, in which the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is often activated. However, some TNBCs are less sensitive to these drugs. In this study, we found that the sensitivity of TNBC cells to rapamycin was highly dependent on the expression level of rapamycin-insensitive companion of mTOR (Rictor), a key component of the mTOR complex 2. Repression of the Rictor expression strongly suppressed the growth of rapamycin-insensitive tumor cells. Furthermore, we showed that the suppression of Rictor expression was also effective in rapamycin-insensitive cells that had acquired resistance to mTOR kinase inhibitors. These findings indicate that Rictor can be a predictive marker for the use of rapamycin analogs in TNBC and highlight the need to develop therapeutics targeting Rictor in the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risayo Watanabe
- Division of Cancer Cell Regulation, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Mamiko Miyata
- Division of Cancer Cell Regulation, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Chitose Oneyama
- Division of Cancer Cell Regulation, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan; Department of Target and Drug Discovery, Nagoya University, Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan; Department of Oncology, Nagoya City University, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan; JST, PRESTO, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan.
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Yoon MS. Nanotechnology-Based Targeting of mTOR Signaling in Cancer. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:5767-5781. [PMID: 32821100 PMCID: PMC7418174 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s254574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a master regulator of cell growth and metabolism, which is activated in response to intra- and extracellular signals, including nutrients, growth factors, and cellular energy levels. The frequent dysregulation of mTOR signaling in cancer makes it an attractive therapeutic target, and several types of mTOR inhibitors have been developed. Nanoparticle-based mTOR modulators are predicted to target various cancers and deliver as well as release drugs in a controlled manner, resulting in enhanced bioavailability and reduced side effects. This mini-review is focused on the molecular mechanism of nanoparticle-based mTOR modulator action as well as the current development of mTOR inhibitors using nanoparticles. Understanding the biological function of nanoparticle-based mTOR modulators will contribute to the development of efficient nano-therapeutics for the treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mee-Sup Yoon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
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Felkai L, Krencz I, Kiss DJ, Nagy N, Petővári G, Dankó T, Micsík T, Khoor A, Tornóczky T, Sápi Z, Sebestyén A, Csóka M. Characterization of mTOR Activity and Metabolic Profile in Pediatric Rhabdomyosarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071947. [PMID: 32709151 PMCID: PMC7409076 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
mTOR activation has been observed in rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS); however, mTOR complex (mTORC) 1 inhibition has had limited success thus far. mTOR activation alters the metabolic pathways, which is linked to survival and metastasis. These pathways have not been thoroughly analyzed in RMSs. We performed immunohistochemistry on 65 samples to analyze the expression of mTOR complexes (pmTOR, pS6, Rictor), and several metabolic enzymes (phosphofructokinase, lactate dehydrogenase-A, β-F1-ATPase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, glutaminase). RICTOR amplification, as a potential mechanism of Rictor overexpression, was analyzed by FISH and digital droplet PCR. In total, 64% of the studied primary samples showed mTOR activity with an mTORC2 dominance (82%). Chemotherapy did not cause any relevant change in mTOR activity. Elevated mTOR activity was associated with a worse prognosis in relapsed cases. RICTOR amplification was not confirmed in any of the cases. Our findings suggest the importance of the Warburg effect and the pentose-phosphate pathway beside a glutamine demand in RMS cells. The expression pattern of the studied mTOR markers can explain the inefficacy of mTORC1 inhibitor therapy. Therefore, we suggest performing a detailed investigation of the mTOR profile before administering mTORC1 inhibitor therapy. Furthermore, our findings highlight that targeting the metabolic plasticity could be an alternative therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Felkai
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (L.F.); (D.J.K.)
| | - Ildikó Krencz
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary; (I.K.); (N.N.); (G.P.); (T.D.); (T.M.); (Z.S.)
| | - Dorottya Judit Kiss
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (L.F.); (D.J.K.)
| | - Noémi Nagy
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary; (I.K.); (N.N.); (G.P.); (T.D.); (T.M.); (Z.S.)
| | - Gábor Petővári
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary; (I.K.); (N.N.); (G.P.); (T.D.); (T.M.); (Z.S.)
| | - Titanilla Dankó
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary; (I.K.); (N.N.); (G.P.); (T.D.); (T.M.); (Z.S.)
| | - Tamás Micsík
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary; (I.K.); (N.N.); (G.P.); (T.D.); (T.M.); (Z.S.)
| | - András Khoor
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA;
| | - Tamás Tornóczky
- Department of Pathology, Medical School and Clinical Center, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Zoltán Sápi
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary; (I.K.); (N.N.); (G.P.); (T.D.); (T.M.); (Z.S.)
| | - Anna Sebestyén
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary; (I.K.); (N.N.); (G.P.); (T.D.); (T.M.); (Z.S.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (M.C.)
| | - Monika Csóka
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (L.F.); (D.J.K.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (M.C.)
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Nath S, Mondal S, Butti R, Prasanna Gunasekaran V, Chatterjee U, Halder A, Kundu GC, Mandal C. Desialylation of Sonic-Hedgehog by Neu2 Inhibits Its Association with Patched1 Reducing Stemness-Like Properties in Pancreatic Cancer Sphere-forming Cells. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061512. [PMID: 32575925 PMCID: PMC7349614 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are crucial regulators of tumor recurrence/progression. The maintenance of CSCs is dependent on aberrant activation of various pathways, including Hedgehog. Prevalent sialylations contribute to aggressiveness in CSCs. Here, we have addressed the role of sialylation in regulating stemness-like properties of pancreatic cancer sphere-forming cells (PCS) through modulation of the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway. The status of CD133/CD44/surface-sialylation was checked by flow cytometry and effects of Neu2 overexpression in PCS were compared using qPCR, immunoblotting, co-immunoprecipitation and also by colony-formation assays. The work was also validated in a xenograft model after Neu2 overexpression. Neu2 and Shh status in patient tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry. PCS showed higher Hh-pathway activity and sialylation with reduced cytosolic-sialidase (Neu2). Neu2 overexpression caused desialylation of Shh, thereby reducing Shh-Patched1 binding thus causing decreased Hh-pathway activity with lower expression of Snail/Slug/CyclinD1 leading to reduction of stemness-like properties. Neu2-overexpression also induced apoptosis in PCS. Additionally, Neu2-overexpressed PCS demonstrated lower mTORC2 formation and inhibitory-phosphorylation of Gsk3β, reflecting a close relationship with reduced Hh pathway. Moreover, both Neu2 and Rictor (a major component of mTORC2) co-transfection reduced stem cell markers and Hh-pathway activity in PCS. Neu2-overexpressed tumors showed reduction in tumor mass with downregulation of stem cell markers/Shh/mTOR and upregulation of Bax/Caspase8/Caspase3. Thus, we established that reduced sialylation by Neu2 overexpression leads to decreased stemness-like properties by desialylation of Shh, which impaired its association with Patched1 thereby inhibiting the Hh pathway. All these may be responsible for enhanced apoptosis in Neu2-overexpressed PCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Nath
- Cancer Biology and Inflammatory Disorder Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S.C. Mallick Road, Kolkata 700032, India; (S.N.); (S.M.)
| | - Susmita Mondal
- Cancer Biology and Inflammatory Disorder Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S.C. Mallick Road, Kolkata 700032, India; (S.N.); (S.M.)
| | - Ramesh Butti
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune 411007, India; (R.B.); (V.P.G.); (G.C.K.)
| | - Vinoth Prasanna Gunasekaran
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune 411007, India; (R.B.); (V.P.G.); (G.C.K.)
| | - Uttara Chatterjee
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Post-Graduate Medical Education and Research Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal 700020, India;
| | - Aniket Halder
- School of Digestive & Liver Diseases, Institute of Post-Graduate Medical Education and Research Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal 700020, India;
| | - Gopal C. Kundu
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune 411007, India; (R.B.); (V.P.G.); (G.C.K.)
| | - Chitra Mandal
- Cancer Biology and Inflammatory Disorder Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S.C. Mallick Road, Kolkata 700032, India; (S.N.); (S.M.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +91-33-2499-5717
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Lu Z, Shi X, Gong F, Li S, Wang Y, Ren Y, Zhang M, Yu B, Li Y, Zhao W, Zhang J, Hou G. RICTOR/mTORC2 affects tumorigenesis and therapeutic efficacy of mTOR inhibitors in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:1004-1019. [PMID: 32642408 PMCID: PMC7332809 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of mTORC1/mTORC2 pathway is observed in many cancers and mTORC1 inhibitors have been used clinically in many tumor types; however, the mechanism of mTORC2 in tumorigenesis is still obscure. Here, we mainly explored the potential role of mTORC2 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and its effects on the sensitivity of cells to mTOR inhibitors. We demonstrated that RICTOR, the key factor of mTORC2, and p-AKT (Ser473) were excessively activated in ESCC and their overexpression is related to lymph node metastasis and the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) phase of ESCC patients. Furthermore, we found that mTORC1/ mTORC2 inhibitor PP242 exhibited more efficacious anti-proliferative effect on ESCC cells than mTORC1 inhibitor RAD001 due to RAD001-triggered feedback activation of AKT signal. Another, we demonstrated that down-regulating expression of RICTOR in ECa109 and EC9706 cells inhibited proliferation and migration as well as induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Noteworthy, knocking-down stably RICTOR significantly suppresses RAD001-induced feedback activation of AKT/PRAS40 signaling, and enhances inhibition efficacy of PP242 on the phosphorylation of AKT and PRAS40, thus potentiates the antitumor effect of RAD001 and PP242 both in vitro and in vivo. Our findings highlight that selective targeting mTORC2 could be a promising therapeutic strategy for future treatment of ESCC.
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Key Words
- 4EBP-1, E binding protein-1
- AKT
- AKT, protein kinase B (PKB)
- ESCC, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
- Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
- FDA, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- H&E staining, hematoxylin and eosin staining
- IC50, half maximal inhibitory concentration
- PI3K, phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase
- RAD001
- RICTOR
- RICTOR, rapamycin-insensitive companion of mTOR
- TNM, tumor-node-metastasis
- TUNEL, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
- mTORC1, mTOR complex 1
- mTORC2, mTOR complex 2
- p70S6K, p70 ribosomal S6 kinase-1
- pp242
- rapalogs, rapamycin and its analogs
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Ashrafizadeh M, Zarrabi A, Samarghandian S, Najafi M. PTEN: What we know of the function and regulation of this onco-suppressor factor in bladder cancer? Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 881:173226. [PMID: 32485246 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bladder cancer accounts for high morbidity and mortality around the world and its incidence rate is suggested to be higher in following years. A number of factors involve in bladder cancer development such as lifestyle and drugs. However, it appears that genetic factors play a significant role in bladder cancer development and progression. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is a cancer-related transcription factor that is corelated with reduced proliferation and invasion of cancer cells by negatively targeting PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. In the present review, we aimed to explore the role of PTEN in bladder cancer cells and how upstream modulators affect PTEN in this life-threatening disorder. Down-regulation of PTEN is associated with poor prognosis, chemoresistance and progression of cancer cells. Besides, microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, circular RNAs and other molecular pathways such as NF-kB are able to target PTEN in bladder cancer cells. Notably, anti-tumor drugs such as kaempferol, β-elemene and sorafenib upregulate the expression of PTEN to exert their inhibitory effects on bladder cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, 34956, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Saeed Samarghandian
- Healthy Ageing Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Masoud Najafi
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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35
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Wang Q, Zhu N, Hu J, Wang Y, Xu J, Gu Q, Lieberman PM, Yuan Y. The mTOR inhibitor manassantin B reveals a crucial role of mTORC2 signaling in Epstein-Barr virus reactivation. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:7431-7441. [PMID: 32312752 PMCID: PMC7247311 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.012645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Lytic replication of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is not only essential for its cell-to-cell spread and host-to-host transmission, but it also contributes to EBV-induced oncogenesis. Thus, blocking EBV lytic replication could be a strategy for managing EBV-associated diseases. Previously, we identified a series of natural lignans isolated from the roots of Saururus chinensis (Asian lizard's tail) that efficiently block EBV lytic replication and virion production with low cytotoxicity. In this study, we attempted to elucidate the molecular mechanism by which these lignans inhibit EBV lytic replication. We found that a representative compound, CSC27 (manassantin B), inhibits EBV lytic replication by suppressing the expression of EBV immediate-early gene BZLF1 via disruption of AP-1 signal transduction. Further analysis revealed that manassantin B specifically blocks the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2)-mediated phosphorylation of AKT Ser/Thr protein kinase at Ser-473 and protein kinase Cα (PKCα) at Ser-657. Using phosphoinositide 3-kinase-AKT-specific inhibitors for kinase mapping and shRNA-mediated gene silencing, we validated that manassantin B abrogates EBV lytic replication by inhibiting mTORC2 activity and thereby blocking the mTORC2-PKC/AKT-signaling pathway. These results suggest that mTORC2 may have utility as an antiviral drug target against EBV infections and also reveal that manassantin B has potential therapeutic value for managing cancers that depend on mTORC2 signaling for survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- Institute of Human Virology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Nannan Zhu
- Institute of Human Virology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Jiayuan Hu
- Institute of Human Virology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Jun Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Qiong Gu
- School of Pharmacy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | | | - Yan Yuan
- Institute of Human Virology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China; Department of Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104.
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Abstract
With the discovery of rapamycin 45 years ago, studies in the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) field started 2 decades before the identification of the mTOR kinase. Over the years, studies revealed that the mTOR signaling is a master regulator of homeostasis and integrates a variety of environmental signals to regulate cell growth, proliferation, and metabolism. Deregulation of mTOR signaling, particularly hyperactivation, frequently occurs in human tumors. Recent advances in molecular profiling have identified mutations or amplification of certain genes coding proteins involved in the mTOR pathway (eg, PIK3CA, PTEN, STK11, and RICTOR) as the most common reasons contributing to mTOR hyperactivation. These genetic alterations of the mTOR pathway are frequently observed in lung neoplasms and may serve as a target for personalized therapy. mTOR inhibitor monotherapy has met limited clinical success so far; however, rational drug combinations are promising to improve efficacy and overcome acquired resistance. A better understanding of mTOR signaling may have the potential to help translation of mTOR pathway inhibitors into the clinical setting.
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37
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Wong CK, Lambert AW, Ozturk S, Papageorgis P, Lopez D, Shen N, Sen Z, Abdolmaleky HM, Győrffy B, Feng H, Thiagalingam S. Targeting RICTOR Sensitizes SMAD4-Negative Colon Cancer to Irinotecan. Mol Cancer Res 2020; 18:414-423. [PMID: 31932471 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-19-0525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Deciphering molecular targets to enhance sensitivity to chemotherapy is becoming a priority for effectively treating cancers. Loss of function mutations of SMAD4 in colon cancer are associated with metastatic progression and resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), the most extensively used drug of almost all chemotherapy combinations used in the treatment of metastatic colon cancer. Here, we report that SMAD4 deficiency also confers resistance to irinotecan, another common chemotherapeutic frequently used alone or in combination with 5-FU against colon cancer. Mechanistically, we find that SMAD4 interacts with and inhibits RICTOR, a component of the mTORC2 complex, resulting in suppression of downstream effector phosphorylation of AKT at Serine 473. In silico meta-analysis of publicly available gene expression datasets derived from tumors indicates that lower levels of SMAD4 or higher levels of RICTOR/AKT, irrespective of the SMAD4 status, correlate with poor survival, suggesting them as strong prognostic biomarkers and targets for therapeutic intervention. Moreover, we find that overexpression of SMAD4 or depletion of RICTOR suppresses AKT signaling and increases sensitivity to irinotecan in SMAD4-deficient colon cancer cells. Consistent with these observations, pharmacologic inhibition of AKT sensitizes SMAD4-negative colon cancer cells to irinotecan in vitro and in vivo. Overall, our study suggests that hyperactivation of the mTORC2 pathway is a therapeutic vulnerability that could be exploited to sensitize SMAD4-negative colon cancer to irinotecan. IMPLICATIONS: Hyperactivation of the mTORC2 pathway in SMAD4-negative colon cancer provides a mechanistic rationale for targeted inhibition of mTORC2 or AKT as a distinctive combinatorial therapeutic opportunity with chemotherapy for colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Khuan Wong
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Genomics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.,Biomedical Genetics Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Arthur W Lambert
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Translational Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sait Ozturk
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Translational Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Panagiotis Papageorgis
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Delia Lopez
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Translational Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ning Shen
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Zaina Sen
- Biomedical Genetics Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hamid M Abdolmaleky
- Biomedical Genetics Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Balázs Győrffy
- MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Institute of Enzymology, Budapest, Hungary.,Semmelweis University 2nd Department of Pediatrics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Hui Feng
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sam Thiagalingam
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Genomics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts. .,Biomedical Genetics Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.,Graduate Program in Molecular and Translational Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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38
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Ruicci KM, Plantinga P, Pinto N, Khan MI, Stecho W, Dhaliwal SS, Yoo J, Fung K, MacNeil D, Mymryk JS, Barrett JW, Howlett CJ, Nichols AC. Disruption of the RICTOR/mTORC2 complex enhances the response of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells to PI3K inhibition. Mol Oncol 2019; 13:2160-2177. [PMID: 31393061 PMCID: PMC6763779 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2018] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) is aberrantly activated in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and plays a pivotal role in tumorigenesis by driving Akt signaling, leading to cell survival and proliferation. Phosphorylation of Akt Thr308 by PI3K-PDK1 and Akt Ser473 by mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) activates Akt. Targeted inhibition of PI3K is a major area of preclinical and clinical investigation as it reduces Akt Thr308 phosphorylation, suppressing downstream mTORC1 activity. However, inhibition of mTORC1 releases feedback inhibition of mTORC2, resulting in a resurgence of Akt activation mediated by mTORC2. While the role of PI3K-activated Akt signaling is well established in HNSCC, the significance of mTORC2-driven Akt signaling has not been thoroughly examined. Here we explore the expression and function of mTORC2 and its obligate subunit RICTOR in HNSCC primary tumors and cell lines. We find RICTOR to be overexpressed in a subset of HNSCC tumors, including those with PIK3CA or EGFR gene amplifications. Whereas overexpression of RICTOR reduced susceptibility of HNSCC tumor cells to PI3K inhibition, genetic ablation of RICTOR using CRISPR/Cas9 sensitized cells to PI3K inhibition, as well as to EGFR inhibition and cisplatin treatment. Further, mTORC2 disruption led to reduced viability and colony forming abilities of HNSCC cells relative to their parental lines and induced loss of both activating Akt phosphorylation modifications (Thr308 and Ser473). Taken together, our findings establish RICTOR/mTORC2 as a critical oncogenic complex in HNSCC and rationalize the development of an mTORC2-specific inhibitor for use in HNSCC, either combined with agents already under investigation, or as an independent therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara M. Ruicci
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - Paul Plantinga
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - Nicole Pinto
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - Mohammed I. Khan
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - William Stecho
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - Sandeep S. Dhaliwal
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - John Yoo
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - Kevin Fung
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - Danielle MacNeil
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - Joe S. Mymryk
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - John W. Barrett
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - Christopher J. Howlett
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
| | - Anthony C. Nichols
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryWestern UniversityLondonCanada
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Krencz I, Sebestyen A, Papay J, Lou Y, Lutz GF, Majewicz TL, Khoor A. Correlation between immunohistochemistry and RICTOR fluorescence in situ hybridization amplification in small cell lung carcinoma. Hum Pathol 2019; 93:74-80. [PMID: 31454632 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2019.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) accounts for approximately 15% of all lung cancers and remains a challenging disease, with no significant improvement in the field of targeted therapies. The RICTOR gene (rapamycin-insensitive companion of mTOR [mammalian target of rapamycin]), which encodes a key structural (scaffold) protein of mTOR complex 2), has recently been identified as one of the most frequently amplified genes and a potential therapeutic target in SCLC. The aim of this study was to compare immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of Rictor and phospho-Akt (a downstream target of mTOR complex 2) with RICTOR amplification as detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in SCLC. RICTOR FISH and Rictor and phospho-Akt IHC staining were performed on 100 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded SCLC samples. RICTOR amplification was detected in 15 samples (15%). IHC positivity for Rictor and phospho-Akt was observed in 37 (37%) and 42 (42%) samples, respectively. Considering FISH as the diagnostic standard, the sensitivity and specificity of Rictor IHC were 93% and 73%, whereas the sensitivity and specificity of phospho-Akt IHC were 80% and 65%, respectively. Rictor expression was higher in distant metastases than in primary tumor samples and lymph node metastases. There was no association between RICTOR amplification and clinical outcome. However, high expression of either Rictor or phospho-Akt was associated with significantly decreased overall survival. In conclusion, IHC expression of Rictor correlates highly with RICTOR amplification. Therefore, Rictor IHC can be used as a cost-effective method to select patients for RICTOR FISH and, potentially, for mTORC1/2 inhibitor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ildiko Krencz
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary H-1085
| | - Anna Sebestyen
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary H-1085
| | - Judit Papay
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary H-1085
| | - Yanyan Lou
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224
| | - Gabrielle F Lutz
- Clinical Research Internship Study Program, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224
| | - Tracy L Majewicz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224
| | - Andras Khoor
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224.
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Gkountakos A, Sartori G, Falcone I, Piro G, Ciuffreda L, Carbone C, Tortora G, Scarpa A, Bria E, Milella M, Rosell R, Corbo V, Pilotto S. PTEN in Lung Cancer: Dealing with the Problem, Building on New Knowledge and Turning the Game Around. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11081141. [PMID: 31404976 PMCID: PMC6721522 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the most common malignancy and cause of cancer deaths worldwide, owing to the dismal prognosis for most affected patients. Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted in chromosome 10 (PTEN) acts as a powerful tumor suppressor gene and even partial reduction of its levels increases cancer susceptibility. While the most validated anti-oncogenic duty of PTEN is the negative regulation of the PI3K/mTOR/Akt oncogenic signaling pathway, further tumor suppressor functions, such as chromosomal integrity and DNA repair have been reported. PTEN protein loss is a frequent event in lung cancer, but genetic alterations are not equally detected. It has been demonstrated that its expression is regulated at multiple genetic and epigenetic levels and deeper delineation of these mechanisms might provide fertile ground for upgrading lung cancer therapeutics. Today, PTEN expression is usually determined by immunohistochemistry and low protein levels have been associated with decreased survival in lung cancer. Moreover, available data involve PTEN mutations and loss of activity with resistance to targeted treatments and immunotherapy. This review discusses the current knowledge about PTEN status in lung cancer, highlighting the prevalence of its alterations in the disease, the regulatory mechanisms and the implications of PTEN on available treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Gkountakos
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Sartori
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Italia Falcone
- Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Geny Piro
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Ludovica Ciuffreda
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Carmine Carbone
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Tortora
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
- Center for Applied Research on Cancer (ARC-NET), University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Emilio Bria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Milella
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Rafael Rosell
- Germans Trias i Pujol, Health Sciences Institute and Hospital, Campus Can Ruti, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Vincenzo Corbo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy.
- Center for Applied Research on Cancer (ARC-NET), University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Sara Pilotto
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy.
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Hua H, Kong Q, Zhang H, Wang J, Luo T, Jiang Y. Targeting mTOR for cancer therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2019; 12:71. [PMID: 31277692 PMCID: PMC6612215 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-019-0754-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 535] [Impact Index Per Article: 107.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a protein kinase regulating cell growth, survival, metabolism, and immunity. mTOR is usually assembled into several complexes such as mTOR complex 1/2 (mTORC1/2). In cooperation with raptor, rictor, LST8, and mSin1, key components in mTORC1 or mTORC2, mTOR catalyzes the phosphorylation of multiple targets such as ribosomal protein S6 kinase β-1 (S6K1), eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 (4E-BP1), Akt, protein kinase C (PKC), and type-I insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-IR), thereby regulating protein synthesis, nutrients metabolism, growth factor signaling, cell growth, and migration. Activation of mTOR promotes tumor growth and metastasis. Many mTOR inhibitors have been developed to treat cancer. While some of the mTOR inhibitors have been approved to treat human cancer, more mTOR inhibitors are being evaluated in clinical trials. Here, we update recent advances in exploring mTOR signaling and the development of mTOR inhibitors for cancer therapy. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms underlying the resistance to mTOR inhibitors in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qingbin Kong
- Laboratory of Oncogene, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongying Zhang
- Laboratory of Oncogene, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiao Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Luo
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yangfu Jiang
- Laboratory of Oncogene, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Tan FH, Bai Y, Saintigny P, Darido C. mTOR Signalling in Head and Neck Cancer: Heads Up. Cells 2019; 8:cells8040333. [PMID: 30970654 PMCID: PMC6523933 DOI: 10.3390/cells8040333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling pathway is a central regulator of metabolism in all cells. It senses intracellular and extracellular signals and nutrient levels, and coordinates the metabolic requirements for cell growth, survival, and proliferation. Genetic alterations that deregulate mTOR signalling lead to metabolic reprogramming, resulting in the development of several cancers including those of the head and neck. Gain-of-function mutations in EGFR, PIK3CA, and HRAS, or loss-of-function in p53 and PTEN are often associated with mTOR hyperactivation, whereas mutations identified from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset that potentially lead to aberrant mTOR signalling are found in the EIF4G1, PLD1, RAC1, and SZT2 genes. In this review, we discuss how these mutant genes could affect mTOR signalling and highlight their impact on metabolic processes, as well as suggest potential targets for therapeutic intervention, primarily in head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona H Tan
- Division of Cancer Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
| | - Yuchen Bai
- Division of Cancer Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
| | - Pierre Saintigny
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de recherche en cancérologie de Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008 Lyon, France.
| | - Charbel Darido
- Division of Cancer Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.
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Chiarini F, Evangelisti C, Lattanzi G, McCubrey JA, Martelli AM. Advances in understanding the mechanisms of evasive and innate resistance to mTOR inhibition in cancer cells. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2019; 1866:1322-1337. [PMID: 30928610 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2019.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The development of drug-resistance by neoplastic cells is recognized as a major cause of targeted therapy failure and disease progression. The mechanistic (previously mammalian) target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a highly conserved Ser/Thr kinase that acts as the catalytic subunit of two structurally and functionally distinct large multiprotein complexes, referred to as mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. Both mTORC1 and mTORC2 play key roles in a variety of healthy cell types/tissues by regulating physiological anabolic and catabolic processes in response to external cues. However, a body of evidence identified aberrant activation of mTOR signaling as a common event in many human tumors. Therefore, mTOR is an attractive target for therapeutic targeting in cancer and this fact has driven the development of numerous mTOR inhibitors, several of which have progressed to clinical trials. Nevertheless, mTOR inhibitors have met with a very limited success as anticancer therapeutics. Among other reasons, this failure was initially ascribed to the activation of several compensatory signaling pathways that dampen the efficacy of mTOR inhibitors. The discovery of these regulatory feedback mechanisms greatly contributed to a better understanding of cancer cell resistance to mTOR targeting agents. However, over the last few years, other mechanisms of resistance have emerged, including epigenetic alterations, compensatory metabolism rewiring and the occurrence of mTOR mutations. In this article, we provide the reader with an updated overview of the mechanisms that could explain resistance of cancer cells to the various classes of mTOR inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Chiarini
- CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics, 40136 Bologna, BO, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, BO, Italy
| | - Camilla Evangelisti
- CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics, 40136 Bologna, BO, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, BO, Italy
| | - Giovanna Lattanzi
- CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics, 40136 Bologna, BO, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, BO, Italy
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA.
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, BO, Italy.
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Targeting mTOR in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Cells 2019; 8:cells8020190. [PMID: 30795552 PMCID: PMC6406494 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020190] [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: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is an aggressive hematologic disorder and constitutes approximately 25% of cancer diagnoses among children and teenagers. Pediatric patients have a favourable prognosis, with 5-years overall survival rates near 90%, while adult ALL still correlates with poorer survival. However, during the past few decades, the therapeutic outcome of adult ALL was significantly ameliorated, mainly due to intensive pediatric-based protocols of chemotherapy. Mammalian (or mechanistic) target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a conserved serine/threonine kinase belonging to the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-related kinase family (PIKK) and resides in two distinct signalling complexes named mTORC1, involved in mRNA translation and protein synthesis and mTORC2 that controls cell survival and migration. Moreover, both complexes are remarkably involved in metabolism regulation. Growing evidence reports that mTOR dysregulation is related to metastatic potential, cell proliferation and angiogenesis and given that PI3K/Akt/mTOR network activation is often associated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance in ALL, there is a constant need to discover novel inhibitors for ALL treatment. Here, the current knowledge of mTOR signalling and the development of anti-mTOR compounds are documented, reporting the most relevant results from both preclinical and clinical studies in ALL that have contributed significantly into their efficacy or failure.
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45
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Luo Y, Xu W, Li G, Cui W. Weighing In on mTOR Complex 2 Signaling: The Expanding Role in Cell Metabolism. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:7838647. [PMID: 30510625 PMCID: PMC6232796 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7838647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In all eukaryotes, the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling emerges as a master regulator of homeostasis, which integrates environmental inputs, including nutrients, energy, and growth factors, to regulate many fundamental cellular processes such as cell growth and metabolism. mTOR signaling functions through two structurally and functionally distinct complexes, mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2), which correspond to two major branches of signal output. While mTORC1 is well characterized for its structure, regulation, and function in the last decade, information of mTORC2 signaling is only rapidly expanding in recent years, from structural biology, signaling network, to functional impact. Here we review the recent advances in many aspects of the mTORC2 signaling, with particular focus on its involvement in the control of cell metabolism and its physiological implications in metabolic diseases and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongting Luo
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Wenyi Xu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Guannan Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Wei Cui
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
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