1
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Zhang X, Duan S, Apostolou PE, Wu X, Watanabe J, Gallitto M, Barron T, Taylor KR, Woo PJ, Hua X, Zhou H, Wei HJ, McQuillan N, Kang KD, Friedman GK, Canoll PD, Chang K, Wu CC, Hashizume R, Vakoc CR, Monje M, McKhann GM, Gogos JA, Zhang Z. CHD2 Regulates Neuron-Glioma Interactions in Pediatric Glioma. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:1732-1754. [PMID: 38767413 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
High-grade gliomas (HGG) are deadly diseases for both adult and pediatric patients. Recently, it has been shown that neuronal activity promotes the progression of multiple subgroups of HGG. However, epigenetic mechanisms that govern this process remain elusive. Here we report that the chromatin remodeler chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 2 (CHD2) regulates neuron-glioma interactions in diffuse midline glioma (DMG) characterized by onco-histone H3.1K27M. Depletion of CHD2 in H3.1K27M DMG cells compromises cell viability and neuron-to-glioma synaptic connections in vitro, neuron-induced proliferation of H3.1K27M DMG cells in vitro and in vivo, activity-dependent calcium transients in vivo, and extends the survival of H3.1K27M DMG-bearing mice. Mechanistically, CHD2 coordinates with the transcription factor FOSL1 to control the expression of axon-guidance and synaptic genes in H3.1K27M DMG cells. Together, our study reveals a mechanism whereby CHD2 controls the intrinsic gene program of the H3.1K27M DMG subtype, which in turn regulates the tumor growth-promoting interactions of glioma cells with neurons. Significance: Neurons drive the proliferation and invasion of glioma cells. Here we show that chromatin remodeler chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 2 controls the epigenome and expression of axon-guidance and synaptic genes, thereby promoting neuron-induced proliferation of H3.1K27M diffuse midline glioma and the pathogenesis of this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Zhang
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Shoufu Duan
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Panagiota E Apostolou
- The Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Xiaoping Wu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Jun Watanabe
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Matthew Gallitto
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Tara Barron
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Kathryn R Taylor
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Pamelyn J Woo
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Xu Hua
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Hui Zhou
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Hong-Jian Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Nicholas McQuillan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Kyung-Don Kang
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Division of Pediatrics, Neuro-Oncology Section, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Gregory K Friedman
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Division of Pediatrics, Neuro-Oncology Section, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Peter D Canoll
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Cheng-Chia Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Rintaro Hashizume
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Guy M McKhann
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Joseph A Gogos
- The Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
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2
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Gruszka R, Zakrzewski J, Nowosławska E, Grajkowska W, Zakrzewska M. Identification and validation of miRNA-target genes network in pediatric brain tumors. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17922. [PMID: 39095557 PMCID: PMC11297236 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68945-z] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Alterations in miRNA levels have been observed in various types of cancer, impacting numerous cellular processes and increasing their potential usefulness in combination therapies also in brain tumors. Recent advances in understanding the genetics and epigenetics of brain tumours point to new aberrations and associations, making it essential to continually update knowledge and classification. Here we conducted molecular analysis of 123 samples of childhood brain tumors (pilocytic astrocytoma, medulloblastoma, ependymoma), focusing on identification of genes that could potentially be regulated by crucial representatives of OncomiR-1: miR-17-5p and miR-20a-5p. On the basis of microarray gene expression analysis and qRTPCR profiling, we selected six (WEE1, CCND1, VEGFA, PTPRO, TP53INP1, BCL2L11) the most promising target genes for further experiments. The WEE1, CCND1, PTPRO, TP53INP1 genes showed increased expression levels in all tested entities with the lowest increase in the pilocytic astrocytoma compared to the ependymoma and medulloblastoma. The obtained results indicate a correlation between gene expression and the WHO grade and subtype. Furthermore, our analysis showed that the integration between genomic and epigenetic pathways should now point the way to further molecular research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Gruszka
- Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, Banacha 12/16, 90-237, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Jakub Zakrzewski
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, ul. Aleja T. Kosciuszki 4, 90-419, Lodz, Poland
| | - Emilia Nowosławska
- Department of Neurosurgery, Polish Mother Memorial Hospital Research Institute in Lodz, Rzgowska 281/289, 93-338, Lodz, Poland
| | - Wiesława Grajkowska
- Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Av. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zakrzewska
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Neuropathology, Medical University of Lodz, Pomorska 251, 92-216, Lodz, Poland
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3
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Watanabe J, Clutter MR, Gullette MJ, Sasaki T, Uchida E, Kaur S, Mo Y, Abe K, Ishi Y, Takata N, Natsumeda M, Gadd S, Zhang Z, Becher OJ, Hashizume R. BET bromodomain inhibition potentiates radiosensitivity in models of H3K27-altered diffuse midline glioma. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e174794. [PMID: 38771655 PMCID: PMC11213469 DOI: 10.1172/jci174794] [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: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Diffuse midline glioma (DMG) H3K27-altered is one of the most malignant childhood cancers. Radiation therapy remains the only effective treatment yet provides a 5-year survival rate of only 1%. Several clinical trials have attempted to enhance radiation antitumor activity using radiosensitizing agents, although none have been successful. Given this, there is a critical need for identifying effective therapeutics to enhance radiation sensitivity for the treatment of DMG. Using high-throughput radiosensitivity screening, we identified bromo- and extraterminal domain (BET) protein inhibitors as potent radiosensitizers in DMG cells. Genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of BET bromodomain activity reduced DMG cell proliferation and enhanced radiation-induced DNA damage by inhibiting DNA repair pathways. RNA-Seq and the CUT&RUN (cleavage under targets and release using nuclease) analysis showed that BET bromodomain inhibitors regulated the expression of DNA repair genes mediated by H3K27 acetylation at enhancers. BET bromodomain inhibitors enhanced DMG radiation response in patient-derived xenografts as well as genetically engineered mouse models. Together, our results highlight BET bromodomain inhibitors as potential radiosensitizer and provide a rationale for developing combination therapy with radiation for the treatment of DMG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Watanabe
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | | | | | - Takahiro Sasaki
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Eita Uchida
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Savneet Kaur
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Yan Mo
- Institute for Cancer Genetics
- Department of Pediatrics, and
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kouki Abe
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Yukitomo Ishi
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nozomu Takata
- Center for Vascular and Developmental Biology, Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, and
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Manabu Natsumeda
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Samantha Gadd
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Institute for Cancer Genetics
- Department of Pediatrics, and
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Oren J. Becher
- Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Rintaro Hashizume
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Children’s of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Athwal H, Kochiyanil A, Bhat V, Allan AL, Parsyan A. Centrosomes and associated proteins in pathogenesis and treatment of breast cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1370565. [PMID: 38606093 PMCID: PMC11007099 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1370565] [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: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among women worldwide. Despite significant advances in treatment, it remains one of the leading causes of female mortality. The inability to effectively treat advanced and/or treatment-resistant breast cancer demonstrates the need to develop novel treatment strategies and targeted therapies. Centrosomes and their associated proteins have been shown to play key roles in the pathogenesis of breast cancer and thus represent promising targets for drug and biomarker development. Centrosomes are fundamental cellular structures in the mammalian cell that are responsible for error-free execution of cell division. Centrosome amplification and aberrant expression of its associated proteins such as Polo-like kinases (PLKs), Aurora kinases (AURKs) and Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) have been observed in various cancers, including breast cancer. These aberrations in breast cancer are thought to cause improper chromosomal segregation during mitosis, leading to chromosomal instability and uncontrolled cell division, allowing cancer cells to acquire new genetic changes that result in evasion of cell death and the promotion of tumor formation. Various chemical compounds developed against PLKs and AURKs have shown meaningful antitumorigenic effects in breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism of action of these inhibitors is likely related to exacerbation of numerical genomic instability, such as aneuploidy or polyploidy. Furthermore, growing evidence demonstrates enhanced antitumorigenic effects when inhibitors specific to centrosome-associated proteins are used in combination with either radiation or chemotherapy drugs in breast cancer. This review focuses on the current knowledge regarding the roles of centrosome and centrosome-associated proteins in breast cancer pathogenesis and their utility as novel targets for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harjot Athwal
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Arpitha Kochiyanil
- Faculty of Science, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Vasudeva Bhat
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Alison L. Allan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Armen Parsyan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Surgery, St. Joseph’s Health Care London and London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
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5
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Leszczynska KB, Freitas-Huhtamäki A, Jayaprakash C, Dzwigonska M, Vitorino FNL, Horth C, Wojnicki K, Gielniewski B, Szadkowska P, Kaza B, Nazarian J, Ciolkowski MK, Trubicka J, Grajkowska W, Garcia BA, Majewski J, Kaminska B, Mieczkowski J. H2A.Z histone variants facilitate HDACi-dependent removal of H3.3K27M mutant protein in pediatric high-grade glioma cells. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113707. [PMID: 38306270 PMCID: PMC11026119 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113707] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs) are deadly pediatric brain tumors, non-resectable due to brainstem localization and diffusive growth. Over 80% of DIPGs harbor a mutation in histone 3 (H3.3 or H3.1) resulting in a lysine-to-methionine substitution (H3K27M). Patients with DIPG have a dismal prognosis with no effective therapy. We show that histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors lead to a significant reduction in the H3.3K27M protein (up to 80%) in multiple glioma cell lines. We discover that the SB939-mediated H3.3K27M loss is partially blocked by a lysosomal inhibitor, chloroquine. The H3.3K27M loss is facilitated by co-occurrence of H2A.Z, as evidenced by the knockdown of H2A.Z isoforms. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) analysis confirms the occupancy of H3.3K27M and H2A.Z at the same SB939-inducible genes. We discover a mechanism showing that HDAC inhibition in DIPG leads to pharmacological modulation of the oncogenic H3.3K27M protein levels. These findings show the possibility of directly targeting the H3.3K27M oncohistone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna B Leszczynska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland.
| | | | - Chinchu Jayaprakash
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Dzwigonska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Francisca N L Vitorino
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Cynthia Horth
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kamil Wojnicki
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bartlomiej Gielniewski
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paulina Szadkowska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Kaza
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Javad Nazarian
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University Children's Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Benjamin A Garcia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jacek Majewski
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Bozena Kaminska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Mieczkowski
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland; 3P-Medicine Laboratory, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland.
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Gatz SA, Harttrampf AC, Brard C, Bautista F, André N, Abbou S, Rubino J, Rondof W, Deloger M, Rübsam M, Marshall LV, Hübschmann D, Nebchi S, Aerts I, Thebaud E, De Carli E, Defachelles AS, Paoletti X, Godin R, Miah K, Mortimer PGS, Vassal G, Geoerger B. Phase I/II Study of the WEE1 Inhibitor Adavosertib (AZD1775) in Combination with Carboplatin in Children with Advanced Malignancies: Arm C of the AcSé-ESMART Trial. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:741-753. [PMID: 38051741 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-2959] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE AcSé-ESMART Arm C aimed to define the recommended dose and activity of the WEE1 inhibitor adavosertib in combination with carboplatin in children and young adults with molecularly enriched recurrent/refractory malignancies. PATIENTS AND METHODS Adavosertib was administered orally, twice every day on Days 1 to 3 and carboplatin intravenously on Day 1 of a 21-day cycle, starting at 100 mg/m2/dose and AUC 5, respectively. Patients were enriched for molecular alterations in cell cycle and/or homologous recombination (HR). RESULTS Twenty patients (median age: 14.0 years; range: 3.4-23.5) were included; 18 received 69 treatment cycles. Dose-limiting toxicities were prolonged grade 4 neutropenia and grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia requiring transfusions, leading to two de-escalations to adavosertib 75 mg/m2/dose and carboplatin AUC 4; no recommended phase II dose was defined. Main treatment-related toxicities were hematologic and gastrointestinal. Adavosertib exposure in children was equivalent to that in adults; both doses achieved the cell kill target. Overall response rate was 11% (95% confidence interval, 0.0-25.6) with partial responses in 2 patients with neuroblastoma. One patient with medulloblastoma experienced unconfirmed partial response and 5 patients had stable disease beyond four cycles. Seven of these eight patients with clinical benefit had alterations in HR, replication stress, and/or RAS pathway genes with or without TP53 alterations, whereas TP53 pathway alterations alone (8/10) or no relevant alterations (2/10) were present in the 10 patients without benefit. CONCLUSIONS Adavosertib-carboplatin combination exhibited significant hematologic toxicity. Activity signals and identified potential biomarkers suggest further studies with less hematotoxic DNA-damaging therapy in molecularly enriched pediatric cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne A Gatz
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham; Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Anne C Harttrampf
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Villejuif, France
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, INSERM U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Caroline Brard
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Biostatistics and Epidemiology Unit, INSERM U1018, CESP, Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, UVSQ, Villejuif, France
| | - Francisco Bautista
- Hospital Niño Jesús, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nicolas André
- Hôpital de la Timone, AP-HM, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Marseille, France
- UMR INSERM 1068, CNRS UMR 7258, Aix Marseille Université U105, Marseille, Cancer Research Center (CRCM), Marseille, France
| | - Samuel Abbou
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Villejuif, France
| | - Jonathan Rubino
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Clinical Research Direction, Villejuif, France
| | - Windy Rondof
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, INSERM U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Bioinformatics platform, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Marc Deloger
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Bioinformatics platform, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Marc Rübsam
- Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center
| | - Lynley V Marshall
- Royal Marsden Hospital & The Institute of Cancer Research, Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology Drug Development Unit, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Hübschmann
- Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center
- Pattern Recognition and Digital Medicine Group, Heidelberg Institute for Stem cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM); German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Souad Nebchi
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, INSERM U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Isabelle Aerts
- Institut Curie, SIREDO Oncology Center (Care, Innovation and research for children and AYA with cancer), PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Estelle Thebaud
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Nantes, France
| | - Emilie De Carli
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Angers, France
| | | | - Xavier Paoletti
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Biostatistics and Epidemiology Unit, INSERM U1018, CESP, Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, UVSQ, Villejuif, France
| | - Robert Godin
- AstraZeneca Oncology External R&D, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Kowser Miah
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative Pharmacology, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | | | - Gilles Vassal
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Clinical Research Direction, Villejuif, France
| | - Birgit Geoerger
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Villejuif, France
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, INSERM U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
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7
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Wang Z, Li W, Li F, Xiao R. An update of predictive biomarkers related to WEE1 inhibition in cancer therapy. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:13. [PMID: 38231277 PMCID: PMC10794259 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05527-y] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE WEE1 is a crucial kinase involved in the regulation of G2/M checkpoint within the cell cycle. This article aims to comprehensively review the existing knowledge on the implication of WEE1 as a therapeutic target in tumor progression and drug resistance. Furthermore, we summarize the current predictive biomarkers employed to treat cancer with WEE1 inhibitors. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was conducted to analyze the association between WEE1 inhibition and cancer progression, including tumor advancement and drug resistance. Special attention was paid to the identification and utilization of predictive biomarkers related to therapeutic response to WEE1 inhibitors. RESULTS The review highlights the intricate involvement of WEE1 in tumor progression and drug resistance. It synthesizes the current knowledge on predictive biomarkers employed in WEE1 inhibitor treatments, offering insights into their prognostic significance. Notably, the article elucidates the potential for precision medicine by understanding these biomarkers in the context of tumor treatment outcomes. CONCLUSION WEE1 plays a pivotal role in tumor progression and is a promising therapeutic target. Distinguishing patients that would benefit from WEE1 inhibition will be a major direction of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizhuo Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenting Li
- Department of Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832000, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuxia Li
- Department of Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832000, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Rourou Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
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Zhong WJ, Zhang LZ, Yue F, Yuan L, Zhang Q, Li X, Lin L. Identification of DNA methylation-regulated WEE1 with potential implications in prognosis and immunotherapy for low-grade glioma. Cancer Biomark 2024; 40:297-317. [PMID: 39213054 PMCID: PMC11380252 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-230517] [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] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND WEE1 is a critical kinase in the DNA damage response pathway and has been shown to be effective in treating serous uterine cancer. However, its role in gliomas, specifically low-grade glioma (LGG), remains unclear. The impact of DNA methylation on WEE1 expression and its correlation with the immune landscape in gliomas also need further investigation. METHODS This study used data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA), and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and utilized various bioinformatics tools to analyze gene expression, survival, gene correlation, immune score, immune infiltration, genomic alterations, tumor mutation burden, microsatellite instability, clinical characteristics of glioma patients, WEE1 DNA methylation, prognostic analysis, single-cell gene expression distribution in glioma tissue samples, and immunotherapy response prediction based on WEE1 expression. RESULTS WEE1 was upregulated in LGG and glioblastoma (GBM), but it had a more significant prognostic impact in LGG compared to other cancers. High WEE1 expression was associated with poorer prognosis in LGG, particularly when combined with wild-type IDH. The WEE1 inhibitor MK-1775 effectively inhibited the proliferation and migration of LGG cell lines, which were more sensitive to WEE1 inhibition. DNA methylation negatively regulated WEE1, and high DNA hypermethylation of WEE1 was associated with better prognosis in LGG than in GBM. Combining WEE1 inhibition and DNA methyltransferase inhibition showed a synergistic effect. Additionally, downregulation of WEE1 had favorable predictive value in immunotherapy response. Co-expression network analysis identified key genes involved in WEE1-mediated regulation of immune landscape, differentiation, and metastasis in LGG. CONCLUSION Our study shows that WEE1 is a promising indicator for targeted therapy and prognosis evaluation. Notably, significant differences were observed in the role of WEE1 between LGG and GBM. Further investigation into WEE1 inhibition, either in combination with DNA methyltransferase inhibition or immunotherapy, is warranted in the context of LGG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang-Jing Zhong
- Laboratory Center, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou, China
- Laboratory Center, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou, China
| | - Li-Zhen Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Laboratory Center, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou, China
| | - Feng Yue
- Department of Urology, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou, China
| | - Lezhong Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Huizhou Central People's Hospital, Huizhou, China
| | - Qikeng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou, China
| | - Xuesong Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou, China
| | - Li Lin
- Laboratory Center, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou, China
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9
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Xing YL, Panovska D, Petritsch CK. Successes and challenges in modeling heterogeneous BRAF V600E mutated central nervous system neoplasms. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1223199. [PMID: 37920169 PMCID: PMC10619673 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1223199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) neoplasms are difficult to treat due to their sensitive location. Over the past two decades, the availability of patient tumor materials facilitated large scale genomic and epigenomic profiling studies, which have resulted in detailed insights into the molecular underpinnings of CNS tumorigenesis. Based on results from these studies, CNS tumors have high molecular and cellular intra-tumoral and inter-tumoral heterogeneity. CNS cancer models have yet to reflect the broad diversity of CNS tumors and patients and the lack of such faithful cancer models represents a major bottleneck to urgently needed innovations in CNS cancer treatment. Pediatric cancer model development is lagging behind adult tumor model development, which is why we focus this review on CNS tumors mutated for BRAFV600E which are more prevalent in the pediatric patient population. BRAFV600E-mutated CNS tumors exhibit high inter-tumoral heterogeneity, encompassing clinically and histopathological diverse tumor types. Moreover, BRAFV600E is the second most common alteration in pediatric low-grade CNS tumors, and low-grade tumors are notoriously difficult to recapitulate in vitro and in vivo. Although the mutation predominates in low-grade CNS tumors, when combined with other mutations, most commonly CDKN2A deletion, BRAFV600E-mutated CNS tumors are prone to develop high-grade features, and therefore BRAFV600E-mutated CNS are a paradigm for tumor progression. Here, we describe existing in vitro and in vivo models of BRAFV600E-mutated CNS tumors, including patient-derived cell lines, patient-derived xenografts, syngeneic models, and genetically engineered mouse models, along with their advantages and shortcomings. We discuss which research gaps each model might be best suited to answer, and identify those areas in model development that need to be strengthened further. We highlight areas of potential research focus that will lead to the heightened predictive capacity of preclinical studies, allow for appropriate validation, and ultimately improve the success of "bench to bedside" translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Claudia K. Petritsch
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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10
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Milletti G, Colicchia V, Cecconi F. Cyclers' kinases in cell division: from molecules to cancer therapy. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:2035-2052. [PMID: 37516809 PMCID: PMC10482880 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01196-z] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Faithful eucaryotic cell division requires spatio-temporal orchestration of multiple sequential events. To ensure the dynamic nature of these molecular and morphological transitions, a swift modulation of key regulatory pathways is necessary. The molecular process that most certainly fits this description is phosphorylation, the post-translational modification provided by kinases, that is crucial to allowing the progression of the cell cycle and that culminates with the separation of two identical daughter cells. In detail, from the early stages of the interphase to the cytokinesis, each critical step of this process is tightly regulated by multiple families of kinases including the Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), kinases of the Aurora, Polo, Wee1 families, and many others. While cell-cycle-related CDKs control the timing of the different phases, preventing replication machinery errors, the latter modulate the centrosome cycle and the spindle function, avoiding karyotypic abnormalities typical of chromosome instability. Such chromosomal abnormalities may result from replication stress (RS) and chromosome mis-segregation and are considered a hallmark of poor prognosis, therapeutic resistance, and metastasis in cancer patients. Here, we discuss recent advances in the understanding of how different families of kinases concur to govern cell cycle, preventing RS and mitotic infidelity. Additionally, considering the growing number of clinical trials targeting these molecules, we review to what extent and in which tumor context cell-cycle-related kinases inhibitors are worth exploiting as an effective therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Milletti
- DNA Replication and Cancer Group, Danish Cancer Institute, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology and of Cell and Gene Therapy, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy.
| | - Valeria Colicchia
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- IRBM S.p.A., Via Pontina Km 30.60, 00070, Pomezia, Italy
| | - Francesco Cecconi
- Cell Stress and Survival Group, Center for Autophagy, Recycling and Disease (CARD), Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
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11
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Cole KA, Ijaz H, Surrey LF, Santi M, Liu X, Minard CG, Maris JM, Voss S, Reid JM, Fox E, Weigel BJ. Pediatric phase 2 trial of a WEE1 inhibitor, adavosertib (AZD1775), and irinotecan for relapsed neuroblastoma, medulloblastoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma. Cancer 2023; 129:2245-2255. [PMID: 37081608 PMCID: PMC10628947 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhibition of the WEE1 kinase by adavosertib (AZD1775) potentiates replicative stress from genomic instability or chemotherapy. This study reports the pediatric solid tumor phase 2 results of the ADVL1312 trial combining irinotecan and adavosertib. METHODS Pediatric patients with recurrent neuroblastoma (part B), medulloblastoma/central nervous system embryonal tumors (part C), or rhabdomyosarcoma (part D) were treated with irinotecan and adavosertib orally for 5 days every 21 days. The combination was considered effective if there were at least three of 20 responses in parts B and D or six of 19 responses in part C. Tumor tissue was analyzed for alternative lengthening of telomeres and ATRX. Patient's prior tumor genomic analyses were provided. RESULTS The 20 patients with neuroblastoma (part B) had a median of three prior regimens and 95% had a history of prior irinotecan. There were three objective responses (9, 11, and 18 cycles) meeting the protocol defined efficacy end point. Two of the three patients with objective responses had tumors with alternative lengthening of telomeres. One patient with pineoblastoma had a partial response (11 cycles), but parts C and D did not meet the protocol defined efficacy end point. The combination was well tolerated and there were no dose limiting toxicities at cycle 1 or beyond in any parts of ADVL1312 at the recommended phase 2 dose. CONCLUSION This is first phase 2 clinical trial of adavosertib in pediatrics and the first with irinotecan. The combination may be of sufficient activity to consider further study of adavosertib in neuroblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina A. Cole
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Heba Ijaz
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lea F. Surrey
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mariarita Santi
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- Children’s Oncology Group, Monravia, California, USA
| | | | - John M. Maris
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Stephan Voss
- Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth Fox
- St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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12
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Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma: Insights into oncogenesis and opportunities for targeted therapy. PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY ONCOLOGY JOURNAL 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phoj.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
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13
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Liu C, Kuang S, Wu L, Cheng Q, Gong X, Wu J, Zhang L. Radiotherapy and radio-sensitization in H3 K27M -mutated diffuse midline gliomas. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023. [PMID: 37157237 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14225] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND H3K27M mutated diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) are extremely aggressive and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in pediatric brain tumors with 5-year survival <1%. Radiotherapy is the only established adjuvant treatment of H3K27M DMGs; however, the radio-resistance is commonly observed. METHODS We summarized current understandings of the molecular responses of H3K27M DMGs to radiotherapy and provide crucial insights into current advances in radiosensitivity enhancement. RESULTS Ionizing radiation (IR) can mainly inhibit tumor cell growth by inducing DNA damage regulated by the cell cycle checkpoints and DNA damage repair (DDR) system. In H3K27M DMGs, the aberrant genetic and epigenetic changes, stemness genotype, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) disrupt the cell cycle checkpoints and DDR system by altering the associated regulatory signaling pathways, which leads to the development of radio-resistance. CONCLUSIONS The advances in mechanisms of radio-resistance in H3K27M DMGs promote the potential targets to enhance the sensitivity to radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Liu
- Departments of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shuwen Kuang
- Departments of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lei Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Quan Cheng
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xuan Gong
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Longbo Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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14
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Jackson ER, Duchatel RJ, Staudt DE, Persson ML, Mannan A, Yadavilli S, Parackal S, Game S, Chong WC, Jayasekara WSN, Grand ML, Kearney PS, Douglas AM, Findlay IJ, Germon ZP, McEwen HP, Beitaki TS, Patabendige A, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Nixon B, Smith ND, Day B, Manoharan N, Nagabushan S, Hansford JR, Govender D, McCowage GB, Firestein R, Howlett M, Endersby R, Gottardo NG, Alvaro F, Waszak SM, Larsen MR, Colino-Sanguino Y, Valdes-Mora F, Rakotomalala A, Meignan S, Pasquier E, André N, Hulleman E, Eisenstat DD, Vitanza NA, Nazarian J, Koschmann C, Mueller S, Cain JE, Dun MD. ONC201 in combination with paxalisib for the treatment of H3K27-altered diffuse midline glioma. Cancer Res 2023; 83:CAN-23-0186. [PMID: 37145169 PMCID: PMC10345962 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-0186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse midline gliomas (DMG), including diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs), are the most lethal of childhood cancers. Palliative radiotherapy is the only established treatment, with median patient survival of 9-11 months. ONC201 is a DRD2 antagonist and ClpP agonist that has shown preclinical and emerging clinical efficacy in DMG. However, further work is needed to identify the mechanisms of response of DIPGs to ONC201 treatment and to determine whether recurring genomic features influence response. Using a systems-biological approach, we showed that ONC201 elicits potent agonism of the mitochondrial protease ClpP to drive proteolysis of electron transport chain and tricarboxylic acid cycle proteins. DIPGs harboring PIK3CA-mutations showed increased sensitivity to ONC201, while those harboring TP53-mutations were more resistant. Metabolic adaptation and reduced sensitivity to ONC201 was promoted by redox-activated PI3K/Akt signaling, which could be counteracted using the brain penetrant PI3K/Akt inhibitor, paxalisib. Together, these discoveries coupled with the powerful anti-DIPG/DMG pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of ONC201 and paxalisib have provided the rationale for the ongoing DIPG/DMG phase II combination clinical trial NCT05009992.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangeline R. Jackson
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ryan J. Duchatel
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dilana E. Staudt
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mika L. Persson
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abdul Mannan
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sridevi Yadavilli
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
- Brain Tumor Institute, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Sarah Parackal
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shaye Game
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Wai Chin Chong
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - W. Samantha N. Jayasekara
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marion Le Grand
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Aix-Marseille Université, Inserm, CNRS, Institut Paoli Calmettes, Marseille, France
| | - Padraic S. Kearney
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alicia M. Douglas
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Izac J. Findlay
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Zacary P. Germon
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Holly P. McEwen
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tyrone S. Beitaki
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adjanie Patabendige
- Brain Barriers Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Biology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
| | - David A. Skerrett-Byrne
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nathan D. Smith
- Analytical and Biomolecular Research Facility Advanced Mass Spectrometry Unit, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bryan Day
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Neevika Manoharan
- Department of Paediatric Oncology, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sumanth Nagabushan
- Department of Paediatric Oncology, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jordan R. Hansford
- Michael Rice Cancer Centre, Women's and Children's Hospital, South Australia Health and Medical Research Institute, South Australia ImmunoGenomics Cancer Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Dinisha Govender
- Department of Oncology, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geoff B. McCowage
- Department of Oncology, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ron Firestein
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Meegan Howlett
- Brain Tumor Research Program, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Raelene Endersby
- Brain Tumor Research Program, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Nicholas G. Gottardo
- Brain Tumor Research Program, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology and Hematology, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Frank Alvaro
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
- John Hunter Children's Hospital, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sebastian M. Waszak
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway (NCMM), Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Martin R. Larsen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Yolanda Colino-Sanguino
- Cancer Epigenetics Biology and Therapeutics, Precision Medicine Theme, Children's Cancer Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Women's and Children's Health, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Fatima Valdes-Mora
- Cancer Epigenetics Biology and Therapeutics, Precision Medicine Theme, Children's Cancer Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Women's and Children's Health, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andria Rakotomalala
- Tumorigenesis and Resistance to Treatment Unit, Centre Oscar Lambret, Lille, France
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277, CANTHER, Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille, France
| | - Samuel Meignan
- Tumorigenesis and Resistance to Treatment Unit, Centre Oscar Lambret, Lille, France
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277, CANTHER, Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille, France
| | - Eddy Pasquier
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Aix-Marseille Université, Inserm, CNRS, Institut Paoli Calmettes, Marseille, France
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France
| | - Nicolas André
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Aix-Marseille Université, Inserm, CNRS, Institut Paoli Calmettes, Marseille, France
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, La Timone Children's Hospital, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Esther Hulleman
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - David D. Eisenstat
- Children's Cancer Centre, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicholas A. Vitanza
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Javad Nazarian
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
- Department of Pediatrics, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- The George Washington University, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC
| | - Carl Koschmann
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sabine Mueller
- Department of Pediatrics, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Pediatric, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Jason E. Cain
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew D. Dun
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Medicine Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
- Paediatric Program, Mark Hughes Foundation Centre for Brain Cancer Research, College of Health, Medicine, and Wellbeing, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
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15
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Parsels LA, Wahl DR, Koschmann C, Morgan MA, Zhang Q. Developing H3K27M mutant selective radiosensitization strategies in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Neoplasia 2023; 37:100881. [PMID: 36724689 PMCID: PMC9918797 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2023.100881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a rare but highly lethal pediatric and adolescent tumor located in the pons of the brainstem. DIPGs harbor unique and specific pathological and molecular alterations, such as the hallmark lysine 27-to-methionine (H3K27M) mutation in histone H3, which lead to global changes in the epigenetic landscape and drive tumorigenesis. While fractionated radiotherapy, the current standard of care, improves symptoms and delays tumor progression, DIPGs inevitably recur, and despite extensive efforts chemotherapy-driven radiosensitization strategies have failed to improve survival. Advances in our understanding of the role of epigenetics in the cellular response to radiation-induced DNA damage, however, offer new opportunities to develop combinational therapeutic strategies selective for DIPGs expressing H3K27M. In this review, we provide an overview of preclinical studies that explore potential radiosensitization strategies targeting the unique epigenetic landscape of H3K27M mutant DIPG. We further discuss opportunities to selectively radiosensitize DIPG through strategic inhibition of the radiation-induced DNA damage response. Finally, we discuss the potential for using radiation to induce anti-tumor immune responses that may be potentiated in DIPG by radiosensitizing-therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Parsels
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Daniel R Wahl
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Carl Koschmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Meredith A Morgan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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Towards Standardisation of a Diffuse Midline Glioma Patient-Derived Xenograft Mouse Model Based on Suspension Matrices for Preclinical Research. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020527. [PMID: 36831063 PMCID: PMC9952880 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020527] [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: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffuse midline glioma (DMG) is an aggressive brain tumour with high mortality and limited clinical therapeutic options. Although in vitro research has shown the effectiveness of medication, successful translation to the clinic remains elusive. A literature search highlighted the high variability and lack of standardisation in protocols applied for establishing the commonly used HSJD-DIPG-007 patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model, based on animal host, injection location, number of cells inoculated, volume, and suspension matrices. This study evaluated the HSJD-DIPG-007 PDX model with respect to its ability to mimic human disease progression for therapeutic testing in vivo. The mice received intracranial injections of HSJD-DIPG-007 cells suspended in either PBS or Matrigel. Survival, tumour growth, and metastases were assessed to evaluate differences in the suspension matrix used. After cell implantation, no severe side effects were observed. Additionally, no differences were detected in terms of survival or tumour growth between the two suspension groups. We observed delayed metastases in the Matrigel group, with a significant difference compared to mice with PBS-suspended cells. In conclusion, using Matrigel as a suspension matrix is a reliable method for establishing a DMG PDX mouse model, with delayed metastases formation and is a step forward to obtaining a standardised in vivo PDX model.
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Zhang G, Chen A, Fang J, Wu A, Chen G, Tai P, Chen H, Chen X, Cao K. Construction of a novel molecular typing and scoring system for anoikis distinguishes between different prognostic risks and treatment responsiveness in low-grade glioma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1105210. [PMID: 37114037 PMCID: PMC10126347 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1105210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The main factors responsible for low-grade glioma (LGG)s' poor prognosis and treatment effectiveness include recurrence and malignant progression. A specific type of programmed cell death, known as anoikis, which is crucial for tumor invasion and metastasis, however, has not yet been investigated in LGGs. Methods We downloaded data of 509 samples from the TCGA-LGG cohort, carried out cluster analysis for typing twice on the basis of 19 anoikis-associated genes, and the subtypes were evaluated the differences in clinicopathological and biological features. ESTIMATE and single-sample gene set enrichment analysis were employed to examine the immunological milieu of LGGs, and enrichment analysis was used to look into the underlying biological mechanisms in LGGs. Cox regression analysis and the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression algorithm were used to create a prediction scoring system. The scoring system was used for classifying LGG into high- and low- anoikis riskscore (anoiS) groups. The impact of the anoiS on the prognosis, standard treatment, and immunotherapy of patients with LGG was assessed using survival analysis and drug sensitivity analysis. Cell experiments were employed for the verification of the differential expression between LGG cells and normal cells of the anoikis gene team that regard CCT5 as the core. Results Based on the expression profiles of the 19 anoikis-associated genes, all individuals with LGG were classified into four subtypes and two macrosubtypes. The different macrosubtypes had significantly different biological characteristics, and the anoirgclusterBD subtype manifested a significantly bad prognosis and a high immune level of infiltration. And subsequent secondary genotyping also showed good prognostic discrimination. We further constructed an anoikis scoring system, anoiS. LGG patients having a high anoiS had a worse prognosis in comparison to those having a low anoiS. The high anoiS group exhibited larger levels of immune infiltration and superior immunotherapy efficacy than the low anoiS group. The high anoiS group was also more susceptible to temozolomide (TMZ) than the low anoiS group, according to a drug sensitivity analysis of TMZ. Conclusion This study constructed a scoring system for predicting the prognosis of patients with LGG and their responsive to TMZ and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganghua Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Aiyan Chen
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianing Fang
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Anshan Wu
- Zhuzhou Hospital Affiliated to Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Guanjun Chen
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Panpan Tai
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | | | - Xinyu Chen
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ke Cao
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Ke Cao, ;
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Yan J, Zhuang L, Wang Y, Jiang Y, Tu Z, Dong C, Chen Y, Zhu Y. Inhibitors of cell cycle checkpoint target Wee1 kinase - a patent review (2003-2022). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2022; 32:1217-1244. [PMID: 36620912 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2022.2166827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION DNA damage repair in most malignancies with mutation of p53 is more dependent on the G2/M checkpoint. Wee1 kinase is a key regulator of the G2/M checkpoint. If Wee1 is inhibited, it results in cells with unrepaired DNA damage entering mitosis prematurely, leading to mitotic catastrophe and subsequent cell death via the apoptotic program. Therefore, inhibition of Wee1 kinase which overexpressed in several cancer cell lines has emerged as a promising therapy for cancer treatment. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes for the first time the structures of small-molecule inhibitors of Wee1 reported in patents published from 2003 to 2022 and the recent clinical developments. It also provides perspectives on the challenges and the future directions. We used different methods to search different databases (PubMed, Reaxys, clinicaltrials.gov)for the literature we needed. EXPERT OPINION Although the small-molecule inhibitors of Wee1, Adavosertib, and ZN-C3 have entered the clinical phase II, the clinical toxicity exhibited by Adavosertib remains the subject of greater concern. The use of Wee1 inhibitors as monotherapy or in combination therapy remains the main trend in Wee1 inhibitors at present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxue Yan
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Lili Zhuang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Yong Wang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Yiqing Jiang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Zhenlin Tu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Chao Dong
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Yadong Chen
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Yong Zhu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
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19
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DNA Damage Response in Cancer Therapy and Resistance: Challenges and Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314672. [PMID: 36499000 PMCID: PMC9735783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy is a common event among cancer patients and a reason why new cancer therapies and therapeutic strategies need to be in continuous investigation and development. DNA damage response (DDR) comprises several pathways that eliminate DNA damage to maintain genomic stability and integrity, but different types of cancers are associated with DDR machinery defects. Many improvements have been made in recent years, providing several drugs and therapeutic strategies for cancer patients, including those targeting the DDR pathways. Currently, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARP inhibitors) are the DDR inhibitors (DDRi) approved for several cancers, including breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. However, PARPi resistance is a growing issue in clinical settings that increases disease relapse and aggravate patients' prognosis. Additionally, resistance to other DDRi is also being found and investigated. The resistance mechanisms to DDRi include reversion mutations, epigenetic modification, stabilization of the replication fork, and increased drug efflux. This review highlights the DDR pathways in cancer therapy, its role in the resistance to conventional treatments, and its exploitation for anticancer treatment. Biomarkers of treatment response, combination strategies with other anticancer agents, resistance mechanisms, and liabilities of treatment with DDR inhibitors are also discussed.
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20
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The Comparative Experimental Study of Sodium and Magnesium Dichloroacetate Effects on Pediatric PBT24 and SF8628 Cell Glioblastoma Tumors Using a Chicken Embryo Chorioallantoic Membrane Model and on Cells In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810455. [PMID: 36142368 PMCID: PMC9499689 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase-1 inhibition with dichloroacetate (DCA) was explored as an alternative cancer therapy. The study’s aim was to compare the effectiveness of NaDCA and MgDCA on pediatric glioblastoma PBT24 and SF8628 tumors and cells. The treatment effects were evaluated on xenografts growth on a chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane. The PCNA, EZH2, p53, survivin expression in tumor, and the SLC12A2, SLC12A5, SLC5A8, CDH1, and CDH2 expression in cells were studied. The tumor groups were: control, cells treated with 10 mM and 5 mM of NaDCA, and 5 mM and 2.5 mM of MgDCA. The cells were also treated with 3 mM DCA. Both the 10 mM DCA preparations significantly reduced PBT24 and SF8624 tumor invasion rates, while 5 mM NaDCA reduced it only in the SF8628 tumors. The 5 mM MgDCA inhibited tumor-associated neoangiogenesis in PBT24; both doses of NaDCA inhibited tumor-associated neoangiogenesis in SF8628. The 10 mM DCA inhibited the expression of markers tested in PBT24 and SF8628 tumors, but the 5 mM DCA affect on their expression depended on the cation. The DCA treatment did not affect the SLC12A2, SLC12A5, and SLC5A8 expression in cells but increased CDH1 expression in SF8628. The tumor response to DCA at different doses indicated that a contrast between NaDCA and MgDCA effectiveness reflects the differences in the tested cells’ biologies.
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21
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Cho JG, Kim SW, Lee A, Jeong HN, Yun E, Choi J, Jeong SJ, Chang W, Oh S, Yoo KH, Lee JB, Yoon S, Lee MS, Park JH, Jung MH, Kim SW, Kim KH, Suh DS, Choi KU, Choi J, Kim J, Kwon BS. MicroRNA-dependent inhibition of WEE1 controls cancer stem-like characteristics and malignant behavior in ovarian cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:803-822. [PMID: 36159587 PMCID: PMC9463562 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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22
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Damanskienė E, Balnytė I, Valančiūtė A, Alonso MM, Stakišaitis D. Different Effects of Valproic Acid on SLC12A2, SLC12A5 and SLC5A8 Gene Expression in Pediatric Glioblastoma Cells as an Approach to Personalised Therapy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:968. [PMID: 35625705 PMCID: PMC9138981 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Valproic acid (VPA) is a histone deacetylase inhibitor with sex-specific immunomodulatory and anticancer effects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of 0.5 and 0.75 mM VPA on NKCC1 (SLC12A2), KCC2 (SLC12A5) and SLC5A8 (SLC5A8) co-transporter gene expressions in pediatric PBT24 (boy's) and SF8628 (girl's) glioblastoma cells. The SLC12A2, SLC12A5 and SLC5A8 RNA expressions were determined by the RT-PCR method. The SLC12A2 and SLC5A8 expressions did not differ between the PBT24 and SF8628 controls. The SLC12A5 expression in the PBT24 control was significantly higher than in the SF8628 control. VPA treatment significantly increased the expression of SLC12A2 in PBT24 but did not affect SF8628 cells. VPA increased the SLC12A5 expression in PBT24 and SF8628 cells. The SLC12A5 expression of the PBT24-treated cells was significantly higher than in corresponding SF8628 groups. Both VPA doses increased the SLC5A8 expression in PBT24 and SF8628 cells, but the expression was significantly higher in the PBT24-treated, compared to the respective SF8628 groups. The SLC5A8 expression in PBT24-treated cells was 10-fold higher than in SF8628 cells. The distinct effects of VPA on the expression of SLC12A2, SLC12A5 and SLC5A8 in PBT24 and SF8628 glioblastoma cells suggest differences in tumor cell biology that may be gender-related.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eligija Damanskienė
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (E.D.); (I.B.); (A.V.)
| | - Ingrida Balnytė
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (E.D.); (I.B.); (A.V.)
| | - Angelija Valančiūtė
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (E.D.); (I.B.); (A.V.)
| | - Marta Marija Alonso
- Department of Pediatrics, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - Donatas Stakišaitis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (E.D.); (I.B.); (A.V.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Institute, 08660 Vilnius, Lithuania
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Abstract
Upon DNA damage, complex transduction cascades are unleashed to locate, recognise and repair affected lesions. The process triggers a pause in the cell cycle until the damage is resolved. Even under physiologic conditions, this deliberate interruption of cell division is essential to ensure orderly DNA replication and chromosomal segregation. WEE1 is an established regulatory protein in this vast fidelity-monitoring machinery. Its involvement in the DNA damage response and cell cycle has been a subject of study for decades. Emerging studies have also implicated WEE1 directly and indirectly in other cellular functions, including chromatin remodelling and immune response. The expanding role of WEE1 in pathophysiology is matched by the keen surge of interest in developing WEE1-targeted therapeutic agents. This review summarises WEE1 involvement in the cell cycle checkpoints, epigenetic modification and immune signalling, as well as the current state of WEE1 inhibitors in cancer therapeutics.
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Bukhari AB, Chan GK, Gamper AM. Targeting the DNA Damage Response for Cancer Therapy by Inhibiting the Kinase Wee1. Front Oncol 2022; 12:828684. [PMID: 35251998 PMCID: PMC8891215 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.828684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells typically heavily rely on the G2/M checkpoint to survive endogenous and exogenous DNA damage, such as genotoxic stress due to genome instability or radiation and chemotherapy. The key regulator of the G2/M checkpoint, the cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), is tightly controlled, including by its phosphorylation state. This posttranslational modification, which is determined by the opposing activities of the phosphatase cdc25 and the kinase Wee1, allows for a more rapid response to cellular stress than via the synthesis or degradation of modulatory interacting proteins, such as p21 or cyclin B. Reducing Wee1 activity results in ectopic activation of CDK1 activity and drives premature entry into mitosis with unrepaired or under-replicated DNA and causing mitotic catastrophe. Here, we review efforts to use small molecule inhibitors of Wee1 for therapeutic purposes, including strategies to combine Wee1 inhibition with genotoxic agents, such as radiation therapy or drugs inducing replication stress, or inhibitors of pathways that show synthetic lethality with Wee1. Furthermore, it become increasingly clear that Wee1 inhibition can also modulate therapeutic immune responses. We will discuss the mechanisms underlying combination treatments identifying both cell intrinsic and systemic anti-tumor activities.
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25
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Damanskienė E, Balnytė I, Valančiūtė A, Alonso MM, Preikšaitis A, Stakišaitis D. The Different Temozolomide Effects on Tumorigenesis Mechanisms of Pediatric Glioblastoma PBT24 and SF8628 Cell Tumor in CAM Model and on Cells In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042001. [PMID: 35216113 PMCID: PMC8877228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
It is necessary to elucidate the individual effects of temozolomide (TMZ) on carcinogenesis and tumor resistance to chemotherapy mechanisms. The study aimed to investigate the TMZ 50 and 100 μM dose effect difference between PBT24 and SF8628 cell line high-grade pediatric glioblastoma (phGBM) xenografts in a chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model, on PCNA and EZH2 immunohistochemical expression in the tumor and on the expression of NKCC1, KCC2, E- and N-cadherin genes in TMZ-treated and control cell groups in vitro. TMZ at a 100 μg dose reduced the incidence of PBT24 xenograft invasion into the CAM, CAM thickening and the number of blood vessels in the CAM (p < 0.05), but did not affect the SF8628 tumor in the CAM model. The TMZ impact on PBT24 and SF8628 tumor PCNA expression was similarly significantly effective but did not alter EZH2 expression in the studied tumors. The TMZ at 50 μM caused significantly increased RNA expression of the NKCC1 gene in both studied cell types compared with controls (p < 0.05). The expression of the KCC2 gene was increased in PBT24 TMZ-treated cells (p < 0.05), and no TMZ effect was found in SF8628-treated cells. The study supports the suggestion that individual sensitivity to TMZ should be assessed when starting treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eligija Damanskienė
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.B.); (A.V.)
- Correspondence: (E.D.); (D.S.)
| | - Ingrida Balnytė
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.B.); (A.V.)
| | - Angelija Valančiūtė
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.B.); (A.V.)
| | - Marta Maria Alonso
- Department of Pediatrics, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - Aidanas Preikšaitis
- Centre of Neurosurgery, Clinic of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, 03101 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Donatas Stakišaitis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.B.); (A.V.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Institute, 08660 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Correspondence: (E.D.); (D.S.)
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26
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Vlatkovic T, Veldwijk MR, Giordano FA, Herskind C. Targeting Cell Cycle Checkpoint Kinases to Overcome Intrinsic Radioresistance in Brain Tumor Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030701. [PMID: 35158967 PMCID: PMC8833533 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary As cell cycle checkpoint mechanisms maintain genomic integrity, the inhibition of enzymes involved in these control mechanisms may increase the sensitivity of the cells to DNA damaging treatments. In this review, we summarize the knowledge in the field of brain tumor treatment with radiation therapy and cell cycle checkpoint inhibition via targeting ATM, ATR, CHK1, CHK2, and WEE1 kinases. Abstract Radiation therapy is an important part of the standard of care treatment of brain tumors. However, the efficacy of radiation therapy is limited by the radioresistance of tumor cells, a phenomenon held responsible for the dismal prognosis of the most aggressive brain tumor types. A promising approach to radiosensitization of tumors is the inhibition of cell cycle checkpoint control responsible for cell cycle progression and the maintenance of genomic integrity. Inhibition of the kinases involved in these control mechanisms can abolish cell cycle checkpoints and DNA damage repair and thus increase the sensitivity of tumor cells to radiation and chemotherapy. Here, we discuss preclinical progress in molecular targeting of ATM, ATR, CHK1, CHK2, and WEE1, checkpoint kinases in the treatment of brain tumors, and review current clinical phase I-II trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tijana Vlatkovic
- Cellular and Molecular Radiation Oncology Lab, Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (T.V.); (M.R.V.)
| | - Marlon R. Veldwijk
- Cellular and Molecular Radiation Oncology Lab, Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (T.V.); (M.R.V.)
| | - Frank A. Giordano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO), University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Carsten Herskind
- Cellular and Molecular Radiation Oncology Lab, Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (T.V.); (M.R.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-621-383-3773
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miR-138-5p Inhibits the Growth and Invasion of Glioma Cells by Regulating WEE1. Anal Cell Pathol (Amst) 2022; 2022:7809882. [PMID: 35127343 PMCID: PMC8816588 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7809882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated the role of differentially expressed miRNAs in glioma progression. Our previous bioinformatics analyses revealed a role of miR-138-5p in glioma. miR-138-5p was decreased in various tumors, and He et al. found that miR-138-5p had an inhibitory effect on glioma cells in 2021. However, the role of miR-138-5p in the development of glioma and the underlying mechanism is unknown. In this study, we explored whether miR-138-5p affects the biology of glioma by regulating WEE1 expression. Methods. miR-138-5p and WEE1 G2 checkpoint kinase (WEE1) RNA and protein expression levels in glioma tissues were detected with qRT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. The effects of miR-138-5p and WEE1 on glioma cell migration and invasion were investigated using Transwell assays. CCK-8 assay was used to measure the effects of miR-138-5p and WEE1 on glioma cell proliferation. The mortality of glioma cells transfected with miR-138-5p and WEE1 was measured with flow cytometry. The relationship between miR-138-5p and WEE1 was explored using a luciferase reporter analysis. Results. Functional studies indicated that overexpression of miR-138-5p suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and promoted death in glioma cell lines. WEE1 was identified as a target of miR-138-5p, and overexpression of miR-138-5p significantly suppressed the levels of WEE1. Moreover, reintroduction of WEE1 partially abrogated miR-138-5p-induced suppression of motility and invasion in glioma cells. Conclusion. The low expression of miR-138-5p in glioma suggests a tumor suppressor role for this miRNA. miR-138-5p suppresses glioma progression by regulating WEE1. These data provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of glioma.
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Mueller S, Cooney T, Yang X, Pal S, Ermoian R, Gajjar A, Liu X, Prem K, Minard CG, Reid JM, Nelson M, Haas-Kogan D, Fox E, Weigel BJ. Wee1 kinase inhibitor adavosertib with radiation in newly diagnosed diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma: A Children's Oncology Group phase I consortium study. Neurooncol Adv 2022; 4:vdac073. [PMID: 35733515 PMCID: PMC9209747 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdac073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Children with diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG) have a dismal prognosis. Adavosertib (AZD1775) is an orally available, blood-brain barrier penetrant, Wee1 kinase inhibitor. Preclinical efficacy against DIPG is heightened by radiation induced replication stress. Methods Using a rolling six design, 7 adavosertib dose levels (DLs) (50 mg/m2 alternating weeks, 50 mg/m2 alternating with weeks of every other day, 50 mg/m2, then 95, 130, 160, 200 mg/m2) were assessed. Adavosertib was only given on days of cranial radiation therapy (CRT).The duration of CRT (54 Gy over 30 fractions; 6 weeks) constituted the dose limiting toxicity (DLT) period. Endpoints included tolerability, pharmacokinetics, overall survival (OS) and peripheral blood γH2AX levels as a marker of DNA damage. Results A total of 46 eligible patients with newly diagnosed DIPG [median (range) age 6 (3-21) years; 52% female] were enrolled. The recommend phase 2 dose (RP2D) of adavosertib was 200 mg/m2/d during days of CRT. Dose limiting toxicity included ALT elevation (n = 1, DL4) and neutropenia (n = 1, DL7). The mean Tmax, T1/2 and Clp on Day 1 were 2 h, 4.4 h, and 45.2 L/hr/m2, respectively. Modest accumulation of adavosertib was observed comparing day 5 versus day 1 AUC0-8h (accumulation ratio = 1.6). OS was 11.1 months (95% CI: 9.4, 12.5) and did not differ from historical control. Conclusion Adavosertib in combination with CRT is well tolerated in children with newly diagnosed DIPG, however, compared to historical controls, did not improve OS. These results can inform future trial design in children with high-risk cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Mueller
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Tabitha Cooney
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Xiaodong Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Sharmistha Pal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ralph Ermoian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Amar Gajjar
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tenesse
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- Children’s Oncology Group, Monrovia, California
| | - Komal Prem
- Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Charles G Minard
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Joel M Reid
- Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Marvin Nelson
- Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Radiology, Keck USC School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Daphne Haas-Kogan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth Fox
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tenesse
| | - Brenda J Weigel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Woods ML, Weiss A, Sokol AM, Graumann J, Boettger T, Richter AM, Schermuly RT, Dammann RH. Epigenetically silenced apoptosis-associated tyrosine kinase (AATK) facilitates a decreased expression of Cyclin D1 and WEE1, phosphorylates TP53 and reduces cell proliferation in a kinase-dependent manner. Cancer Gene Ther 2022; 29:1975-1987. [PMID: 35902728 PMCID: PMC9750878 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-022-00513-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Silencing of the Apoptosis associated Tyrosine Kinase gene (AATK) has been described in cancer. In our study, we specifically investigated the epigenetic inactivation of AATK in pancreatic adenocarcinoma, lower grade glioma, lung, breast, head, and neck cancer. The resulting loss of AATK correlates with impaired patient survival. Inhibition of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) reactivated AATK in glioblastoma and pancreatic cancer. In contrast, epigenetic targeting via the CRISPR/dCas9 system with either EZH2 or DNMT3A inhibited the expression of AATK. Via large-scale kinomic profiling and kinase assays, we demonstrate that AATK acts a Ser/Thr kinase that phosphorylates TP53 at Ser366. Furthermore, whole transcriptome analyses and mass spectrometry associate AATK expression with the GO term 'regulation of cell proliferation'. The kinase activity of AATK in comparison to the kinase-dead mutant mediates a decreased expression of the key cell cycle regulators Cyclin D1 and WEE1. Moreover, growth suppression through AATK relies on its kinase activity. In conclusion, the Ser/Thr kinase AATK represses growth and phosphorylates TP53. Furthermore, expression of AATK was correlated with a better patient survival for different cancer entities. This data suggests that AATK acts as an epigenetically inactivated tumor suppressor gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L. Woods
- grid.8664.c0000 0001 2165 8627Institute for Genetics, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Astrid Weiss
- grid.8664.c0000 0001 2165 8627Department of Internal Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany ,grid.452624.3German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Anna M. Sokol
- grid.418032.c0000 0004 0491 220XScientific Service Group Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry, Max-Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Johannes Graumann
- grid.418032.c0000 0004 0491 220XScientific Service Group Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry, Max-Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany ,grid.10253.350000 0004 1936 9756Present Address: Institute for Translational Proteomics, Department of Medicine, Philipps-University, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Boettger
- grid.418032.c0000 0004 0491 220XMax-Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Antje M. Richter
- grid.8664.c0000 0001 2165 8627Institute for Genetics, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Ralph T. Schermuly
- grid.8664.c0000 0001 2165 8627Department of Internal Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany ,grid.452624.3German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Reinhard H. Dammann
- grid.8664.c0000 0001 2165 8627Institute for Genetics, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany ,grid.440517.3German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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Hayden E, Holliday H, Lehmann R, Khan A, Tsoli M, Rayner BS, Ziegler DS. Therapeutic Targets in Diffuse Midline Gliomas-An Emerging Landscape. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246251. [PMID: 34944870 PMCID: PMC8699135 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) remain one of the most devastating childhood brain tumour types, for which there is currently no known cure. In this review we provide a summary of the existing knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of this disease, highlighting current analyses and novel treatment propositions. Together, the accumulation of these data will aid in the understanding and development of more effective therapeutic options for the treatment of DMGs. Abstract Diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) are invariably fatal pediatric brain tumours that are inherently resistant to conventional therapy. In recent years our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of DMG tumorigenicity has resulted in the identification of novel targets and the development of a range of potential therapies, with multiple agents now being progressed to clinical translation to test their therapeutic efficacy. Here, we provide an overview of the current therapies aimed at epigenetic and mutational drivers, cellular pathway aberrations and tumor microenvironment mechanisms in DMGs in order to aid therapy development and facilitate a holistic approach to patient treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisha Hayden
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
| | - Holly Holliday
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lehmann
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
| | - Aaminah Khan
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
| | - Maria Tsoli
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
| | - Benjamin S. Rayner
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
| | - David S. Ziegler
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick 2031, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-9382-1730; Fax: +61-2-9382-1789
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Tang Y, Mukherjee J, Pieper RO. MRE11 and UBR5 Co-Operate to Suppress RNF168-Mediated Fusion of Dysfunctional Telomeres. Front Oncol 2021; 11:772233. [PMID: 34881184 PMCID: PMC8645554 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.772233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
TRF2 is part of the shelterin complex that hides telomeric DNA ends and prevents the activation of the cNHEJ pathway that can lead to chromosomal fusion. TRF2, however, also actively suppresses the cNHEJ pathway by recruiting two proteins, MRE11 and UBR5. MRE11 binds BRCC3, which in turn deubiquitinates γH2AX deposited at exposed telomeric DNA ends and limits RNF168 recruitment to the telomere. UBR5, in contrast directly ubiquitinates and destroys RNF168. The loss of telomeric RNF168 in turn blocks the subsequent recruitment of 53BP1 and prevents the cNHEJ-mediated fusion of chromosomes with exposed telomeric DNA ends. Although MRE11 and UBR5 are both involved in the control of telomeric RNF168 levels and the chromosome fusion process, their relative contributions have not been directly addressed. To do so we genetically suppressed MRE11 and UBR5 alone or in combination in glioma cell lines which we previously showed contained dysfunctional telomeres that were dependent on TRF2 for suppression of telomeric fusion and monitored the effects on events associated with telomere fusion. We here show that while suppression of either MRE11 or UBR5 alone had minimal effects on RNF168 telomeric accumulation, 53BP1 recruitment, and telomeric fusion, their combined suppression led to significant increases in RNF168 and 53BP1 telomeric recruitment and telomeric fusion and eventually cell death, all of which were reversible by suppression of RNF168 itself. These results show that MRE11 and UBR5 co-operate to suppress fusion at dysfunctional telomeres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjian Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Joydeep Mukherjee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Russell O. Pieper
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Shen CJ, Terezakis SA. The Evolving Role of Radiotherapy for Pediatric Cancers With Advancements in Molecular Tumor Characterization and Targeted Therapies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:679701. [PMID: 34604027 PMCID: PMC8481883 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.679701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ongoing rapid advances in molecular diagnostics, precision imaging, and development of targeted therapies have resulted in a constantly evolving landscape for treatment of pediatric cancers. Radiotherapy remains a critical element of the therapeutic toolbox, and its role in the era of precision medicine continues to adapt and undergo re-evaluation. Here, we review emerging strategies for combining radiotherapy with novel targeted systemic therapies (for example, for pediatric gliomas or soft tissue sarcomas), modifying use or intensity of radiotherapy when appropriate via molecular diagnostics that allow better characterization and individualization of each patient’s treatments (for example, de-intensification of radiotherapy in WNT subgroup medulloblastoma), as well as exploring more effective targeted systemic therapies that may allow omission or delay of radiotherapy. Many of these strategies are still under investigation but highlight the importance of continued pre-clinical and clinical studies evaluating the role of radiotherapy in this era of precision oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette J Shen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Stephanie A Terezakis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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Esposito F, Giuffrida R, Raciti G, Puglisi C, Forte S. Wee1 Kinase: A Potential Target to Overcome Tumor Resistance to Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910689. [PMID: 34639030 PMCID: PMC8508993 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
During the cell cycle, DNA suffers several lesions that need to be repaired prior to entry into mitosis to preserve genome integrity in daughter cells. Toward this aim, cells have developed complex enzymatic machinery, the so-called DNA damage response (DDR), which is able to repair DNA, temporarily stopping the cell cycle to provide more time to repair, or if the damage is too severe, inducing apoptosis. This DDR mechanism is considered the main source of resistance to DNA-damaging therapeutic treatments in oncology. Recently, cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are a small subset of tumor cells, were identified as tumor-initiating cells. CSCs possess self-renewal potential and persistent tumorigenic capacity, allowing for tumor re-growth and relapse. Compared with cancer cells, CSCs are more resistant to therapeutic treatments. Wee1 is the principal gatekeeper for both G2/M and S-phase checkpoints, where it plays a key role in cell cycle regulation and DNA damage repair. From this perspective, Wee1 inhibition might increase the effectiveness of DNA-damaging treatments, such as radiotherapy, forcing tumor cells and CSCs to enter into mitosis, even with damaged DNA, leading to mitotic catastrophe and subsequent cell death.
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34
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Price G, Bouras A, Hambardzumyan D, Hadjipanayis CG. Current knowledge on the immune microenvironment and emerging immunotherapies in diffuse midline glioma. EBioMedicine 2021; 69:103453. [PMID: 34157482 PMCID: PMC8220552 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse midline glioma (DMG) is an incurable malignancy with the highest mortality rate among pediatric brain tumors. While radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the most common treatments, these modalities have limited promise. Due to their diffuse nature in critical areas of the brain, the prognosis of DMG remains dismal. DMGs are characterized by unique phenotypic heterogeneity and histological features. Mutations of H3K27M, TP53, and ACVR1 drive DMG tumorigenesis. Histological artifacts include pseudopalisading necrosis and vascular endothelial proliferation. Mouse models that recapitulate human DMG have been used to study key driver mutations and the tumor microenvironment. DMG consists of a largely immunologically cold tumor microenvironment that lacks immune cell infiltration, immunosuppressive factors, and immune surveillance. While tumor-associated macrophages are the most abundant immune cell population, there is reduced T lymphocyte infiltration. Immunotherapies can stimulate the immune system to find, attack, and eliminate cancer cells. However, it is critical to understand the immune microenvironment of DMG before designing immunotherapies since differences in the microenvironment influence treatment efficacy. To this end, our review aims to overview the immune microenvironment of DMG, discuss emerging insights about the immune landscape that drives disease pathophysiology, and present recent findings and new opportunities for therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Price
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai,10 Union Square East, 5th Floor, Suite 5E, New York, NY 10003, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Alexandros Bouras
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai,10 Union Square East, 5th Floor, Suite 5E, New York, NY 10003, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dolores Hambardzumyan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai,10 Union Square East, 5th Floor, Suite 5E, New York, NY 10003, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Constantinos G Hadjipanayis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai,10 Union Square East, 5th Floor, Suite 5E, New York, NY 10003, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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35
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Qiu B, Kline C, Mueller S. Radiation in Combination With Targeted Agents and Immunotherapies for Pediatric Central Nervous System Tumors - Progress, Opportunities, and Challenges. Front Oncol 2021; 11:674596. [PMID: 34277419 PMCID: PMC8278144 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.674596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric brain tumors are the most common solid tumors in children and represent a heterogenous group of diagnoses. While some are treatable with current standard of care, relapsed/refractory disease is common and some high-risk diagnoses remain incurable. A growing number of therapy options are under development for treatment of CNS tumors, including targeted therapies that disrupt key tumor promoting processes and immunotherapies that promote anti-tumor immune function. While these therapies hold promise, it is likely that single agent treatments will not be sufficient for most high-risk patients and combination strategies will be necessary. Given the central role for radiotherapy for many pediatric CNS tumors, we review current strategies that combine radiation with targeted therapies or immunotherapies. To promote the ongoing development of rational combination treatments, we highlight 1) mechanistic connections between molecular drivers of tumorigenesis and radiation response, 2) ways in which molecular alterations in tumor cells shape the immune microenvironment, and 3) how radiotherapy affects the host immune system. In addition to discussing strategies to maximize efficacy, we review principles that inform safety of combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Qiu
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Cassie Kline
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sabine Mueller
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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36
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Metselaar DS, du Chatinier A, Stuiver I, Kaspers GJL, Hulleman E. Radiosensitization in Pediatric High-Grade Glioma: Targets, Resistance and Developments. Front Oncol 2021; 11:662209. [PMID: 33869066 PMCID: PMC8047603 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.662209] [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: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG) are the leading cause of cancer-related death in children. These epigenetically dysregulated tumors often harbor mutations in genes encoding histone 3, which contributes to a stem cell-like, therapy-resistant phenotype. Furthermore, pHGG are characterized by a diffuse growth pattern, which, together with their delicate location, makes complete surgical resection often impossible. Radiation therapy (RT) is part of the standard therapy against pHGG and generally the only modality, apart from surgery, to provide symptom relief and a delay in tumor progression. However, as a single treatment modality, RT still offers no chance for a cure. As with most therapeutic approaches, irradiated cancer cells often acquire resistance mechanisms that permit survival or stimulate regrowth after treatment, thereby limiting the efficacy of RT. Various preclinical studies have investigated radiosensitizers in pHGG models, without leading to an improved clinical outcome for these patients. However, our recently improved molecular understanding of pHGG generates new opportunities to (re-)evaluate radiosensitizers in these malignancies. Furthermore, the use of radio-enhancing agents has several benefits in pHGG compared to other cancers, which will be discussed here. This review provides an overview and a critical evaluation of the radiosensitization strategies that have been studied to date in pHGG, thereby providing a framework for improving radiosensitivity of these rapidly fatal brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis S Metselaar
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Aimée du Chatinier
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Iris Stuiver
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gertjan J L Kaspers
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Esther Hulleman
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Chen Z, Peng P, Zhang X, Mania-Farnell B, Xi G, Wan F. Advanced Pediatric Diffuse Pontine Glioma Murine Models Pave the Way towards Precision Medicine. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051114. [PMID: 33807733 PMCID: PMC7961799 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051114] [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: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs) account for ~15% of pediatric brain tumors, which invariably present with poor survival regardless of treatment mode. Several seminal studies have revealed that 80% of DIPGs harbor H3K27M mutation coded by HIST1H3B, HIST1H3C and H3F3A genes. The H3K27M mutation has broad effects on gene expression and is considered a tumor driver. Determination of the effects of H3K27M on posttranslational histone modifications and gene regulations in DIPG is critical for identifying effective therapeutic targets. Advanced animal models play critical roles in translating these cutting-edge findings into clinical trial development. Here, we review current molecular research progress associated with DIPG. We also summarize DIPG animal models, highlighting novel genomic engineered mouse models (GEMMs) and innovative humanized DIPG mouse models. These models will pave the way towards personalized precision medicine for the treatment of DIPGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zirong Chen
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (P.P.); (X.Z.)
| | - Peng Peng
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (P.P.); (X.Z.)
| | - Xiaolin Zhang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (P.P.); (X.Z.)
| | - Barbara Mania-Farnell
- Department of Biological Science, Purdue University Northwest, Hammond, IN 46323, USA;
| | - Guifa Xi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Correspondence: (G.X.); (F.W.); Tel.: +1-(312)5034296 (G.X.); +86-(027)-8366-5201 (F.W.)
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (P.P.); (X.Z.)
- Correspondence: (G.X.); (F.W.); Tel.: +1-(312)5034296 (G.X.); +86-(027)-8366-5201 (F.W.)
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Ma W, Zhou Y, Liu M, Qin Q, Cui Y. Long non-coding RNA LINC00470 in serum derived exosome: a critical regulator for proliferation and autophagy in glioma cells. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:149. [PMID: 33663509 PMCID: PMC7931344 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01825-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To explore the mechanism of LINC00470 in serum exosomes from glioma patients regulating the autophagy and proliferation of glioma cells. Methods Exosomes were extracted from glioma patients (GBM-exo). Expression of LINC00470 in exosomes was analyzed with the clinicopathological characteristics of glioma patients. Glioma mouse model was established. The effects of LINC00470, miR-580-3p and WEE1 on cell autophagy and proliferation, as well as the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway were measured. Dual luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) were conducted to validate the binding of LINC00470 and miR-580-3p and of miR-580-3p and WEE1. Results LINC00470 overexpressed in GBM-exo and associated with disease severity and postoperative survival time of glioma patients. GBM-exo deteriorated tumor progression in nude mice. Cells incubated with GBM-exo or transfected with pcDNA3.1-LINC00470/miR-580-3p inhibitor/pcDNA3.1-WEE1 had less autophagosome, downregulated LC3-II/LC3-I and Beclin1 expression levels and increased expression of p62 as well as strengthened proliferation ability. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was activated. LINC00470 competitively bound to miR-580-3p with WEE1. Conclusion LINC00470 in GBM-exo can bind to miR-580-3p in glioma cells to regulate WEE1 expression and activate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, thereby inhibiting autophagy and enhancing the proliferation of glioma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjia Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qilin Qin
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Cui
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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Chang HR, Jung E, Cho S, Jeon YJ, Kim Y. Targeting Non-Oncogene Addiction for Cancer Therapy. Biomolecules 2021; 11:129. [PMID: 33498235 PMCID: PMC7909239 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
While Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and technological advances have been useful in identifying genetic profiles of tumorigenesis, novel target proteins and various clinical biomarkers, cancer continues to be a major global health threat. DNA replication, DNA damage response (DDR) and repair, and cell cycle regulation continue to be essential systems in targeted cancer therapies. Although many genes involved in DDR are known to be tumor suppressor genes, cancer cells are often dependent and addicted to these genes, making them excellent therapeutic targets. In this review, genes implicated in DNA replication, DDR, DNA repair, cell cycle regulation are discussed with reference to peptide or small molecule inhibitors which may prove therapeutic in cancer patients. Additionally, the potential of utilizing novel synthetic lethal genes in these pathways is examined, providing possible new targets for future therapeutics. Specifically, we evaluate the potential of TONSL as a novel gene for targeted therapy. Although it is a scaffold protein with no known enzymatic activity, the strategy used for developing PCNA inhibitors can also be utilized to target TONSL. This review summarizes current knowledge on non-oncogene addiction, and the utilization of synthetic lethality for developing novel inhibitors targeting non-oncogenic addiction for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae Ryung Chang
- Department of Biological Sciences and Research Institute of Women’s Health, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea; (E.J.); (S.C.)
| | - Eunyoung Jung
- Department of Biological Sciences and Research Institute of Women’s Health, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea; (E.J.); (S.C.)
| | - Soobin Cho
- Department of Biological Sciences and Research Institute of Women’s Health, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea; (E.J.); (S.C.)
| | - Young-Jun Jeon
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea;
| | - Yonghwan Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences and Research Institute of Women’s Health, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea; (E.J.); (S.C.)
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Srikanthan D, Taccone MS, Van Ommeren R, Ishida J, Krumholtz SL, Rutka JT. Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma: current insights and future directions. Chin Neurosurg J 2021; 7:6. [PMID: 33423692 PMCID: PMC7798267 DOI: 10.1186/s41016-020-00218-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a lethal pediatric brain tumor and the leading cause of brain tumor–related death in children. As several clinical trials over the past few decades have led to no significant improvements in outcome, the current standard of care remains fractionated focal radiation. Due to the recent increase in stereotactic biopsies, tumor tissue availabilities have enabled our advancement of the genomic and molecular characterization of this lethal cancer. Several groups have identified key histone gene mutations, genetic drivers, and methylation changes in DIPG, providing us with new insights into DIPG tumorigenesis. Subsequently, there has been increased development of in vitro and in vivo models of DIPG which have the capacity to unveil novel therapies and strategies for drug delivery. This review outlines the clinical characteristics, genetic landscape, models, and current treatments and hopes to shed light on novel therapeutic avenues and challenges that remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilakshan Srikanthan
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada.,The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael S Taccone
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada.,The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Randy Van Ommeren
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Joji Ishida
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Stacey L Krumholtz
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - James T Rutka
- Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada. .,The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay St, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada. .,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Suite 1503, 555, University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada.
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Du X, Li J, Luo X, Li R, Li F, Zhang Y, Shi J, He J. Structure-activity relationships of Wee1 inhibitors: A review. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 203:112524. [PMID: 32688199 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Wee1 kinase plays an important role in regulating G2/M checkpoint and S phase, and the inhibition of it will lead to mitotic catastrophe in cancer cells with p53 mutation or deletion. Therefore, the mechanism of Wee1 kinase in cancer treatment and the development of its inhibitors have become a research hotspot. However, although a variety of Wee1 inhibitors with different scaffolds and considerable activity have been successfully identified, so far no one has systematically summarized the structure-activity relationships (SARs) of Wee1 inhibitors. Previous reviews mainly focused on its mechanism and clinical application. To facilitate the rational design and development of Wee1 inhibitors in the future, this paper systematically summarizes its structural types, SARs and binding modes according to the Wee1 inhibitors reported in scientific journals, and also summarizes the regulatory effect of Wee1 kinase on cell cycle and the progress of its inhibitors in clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingkai Du
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy & Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaojiao Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy & Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Rong Li
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Feng Li
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yiwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy & Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Jun He
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy & Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Radio-Resistance and DNA Repair in Pediatric Diffuse Midline Gliomas. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102813. [PMID: 33007840 PMCID: PMC7600397 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant gliomas (MG) are among the most prevalent and lethal primary intrinsic brain tumors. Although radiotherapy (RT) is the most effective nonsurgical therapy, recurrence is universal. Dysregulated DNA damage response pathway (DDR) signaling, rampant genomic instability, and radio-resistance are among the hallmarks of MGs, with current therapies only offering palliation. A subgroup of pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG) is characterized by H3K27M mutation, which drives global loss of di- and trimethylation of histone H3K27. Here, we review the most recent literature and discuss the key studies dissecting the molecular biology of H3K27M-mutated gliomas in children. We speculate that the aberrant activation and/or deactivation of some of the key components of DDR may be synthetically lethal to H3K27M mutation and thus can open novel avenues for effective therapeutic interventions for patients suffering from this deadly disease.
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Ghelli Luserna di Rorà A, Cerchione C, Martinelli G, Simonetti G. A WEE1 family business: regulation of mitosis, cancer progression, and therapeutic target. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:126. [PMID: 32958072 PMCID: PMC7507691 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00959-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The inhibition of the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway in the treatment of cancer has recently gained interest, and different DDR inhibitors have been developed. Among them, the most promising ones target the WEE1 kinase family, which has a crucial role in cell cycle regulation and DNA damage identification and repair in both nonmalignant and cancer cells. This review recapitulates and discusses the most recent findings on the biological function of WEE1/PKMYT1 during the cell cycle and in the DNA damage repair, with a focus on their dual role as tumor suppressors in nonmalignant cells and pseudo-oncogenes in cancer cells. We here report the available data on the molecular and functional alterations of WEE1/PKMYT1 kinases in both hematological and solid tumors. Moreover, we summarize the preclinical information on 36 chemo/radiotherapy agents, and in particular their effect on cell cycle checkpoints and on the cellular WEE1/PKMYT1-dependent response. Finally, this review outlines the most important pre-clinical and clinical data available on the efficacy of WEE1/PKMYT1 inhibitors in monotherapy and in combination with chemo/radiotherapy agents or with other selective inhibitors currently used or under evaluation for the treatment of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ghelli Luserna di Rorà
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy
| | - Claudio Cerchione
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy
| | - Giorgia Simonetti
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy.
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Zhang N, Xing X, Gu F, Zhou G, Liu X, Li B. Ropivacaine Inhibits the Growth, Migration and Invasion of Gastric Cancer Through Attenuation of WEE1 and PI3K/AKT Signaling via miR-520a-3p. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:5309-5321. [PMID: 32606749 PMCID: PMC7294106 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s244550] [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: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metastasis remains one of the greatest challenges involved in treating gastric cancer (GC). Ropivacaine (Rop) is not only a well-documented local anesthetic medicament but also has been reported to exert an antitumor role in cancer development. This study explored the effects of ropivacaine on the growth, migration and invasion of gastric cancer and the underlying mechanisms. METHODS Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay was conducted to test the effect of Rop on the proliferation of AGS and BGC-823 GC cells. Moreover, cell apoptosis, migration and invasion were examined by flow cytometry and transwell assay, respectively. The expression of miR-520a-3p was determined by qRT-PCR. miRNA targeting sites were analyzed using bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assay. Protein levels of WEE1 and PI3K/AKT were detected by Western blot. Furthermore, the tumor-forming experiment of nude mice was used to detect the growth of cells in vivo. RESULTS Rop inhibited proliferation but promoted apoptosis of GC cells. Besides, the migration and invasion of GC cells were also inhibited by Rop. Moreover, miR-520a-3p expression was enhanced by Rop, and transfection with miR-520a-3p mimic decreased cell proliferation, migration and invasion. The upregulation of miR-520a-3p was partly contributed to the inhibitory effect of ropivacaine on GC cell lines. Finally, Rop inactivated WEE1 and PI3K/AKT pathway via upregulation of miR-520a-3p. CONCLUSION Our results suggested that Rop decreased growth, migration and invasion of GC cells via regulating miR-520a-3p expression and further inactivated WEE1 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nianliang Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rizhao People’s Hospital, Rizhao276826, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiangji Xing
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rizhao Women and Children Hospital, Rizhao276800, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fengcai Gu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rizhao People’s Hospital, Rizhao276826, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Gang Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rizhao People’s Hospital, Rizhao276826, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xianglan Liu
- ECG Room, Rizhao People’s Hospital, Rizhao276826, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Baoqiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rizhao People’s Hospital, Rizhao276826, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
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Dai L, Chen J, Lin Z, Wang Z, Mu S, Qin Z. Targeting Sphingosine Kinase by ABC294640 against Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). J Cancer 2020; 11:4683-4691. [PMID: 32626514 PMCID: PMC7330698 DOI: 10.7150/jca.46269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As a highly aggressive pediatric brainstem tumor, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) accounts for 10% to 20% of childhood brain tumors. The survival rate for DIPG remains very low, with a median survival time as less than one year even under radiotherapy, the current standard treatment. Moreover, over than 250 clinical trials have failed when trying to improve the survival compared to radiotherapy. The sphingolipid metabolism and related signaling pathways have been found closely related to cancer cell survival; however, the sphingolipid metabolism targeted therapies have never been investigated in DIPG. In the current study, the anti-DIPG activity of ABC294640, the only first-in-class orally available Sphingosine kinase (SphK) inhibitor was explored. Treatment with ABC294640 significantly repressed DIPG cell growth by inducing intracellular pro-apoptotic ceramides production and cell apoptosis. We also profiled ABC294640-induced changes in gene expression within DIPG cells and identified many new genes tightly controlled by sphingolipid metabolism, such as IFITM1 and KAL1. These genes are required for DIPG cell survival and display clinical relevance in DIPG patients' samples. Together, our findings in this study indicate that targeting sphingolipid metabolism may represent a promising strategy to improve DIPG treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Dai
- Departments of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Jungang Chen
- Departments of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Zhen Lin
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, Tulane Cancer Center, 1700 Tulane Ave., New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Zhaoxiong Wang
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, Tulane Cancer Center, 1700 Tulane Ave., New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Shengyu Mu
- Pharmacology & Toxicology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Zhiqiang Qin
- Departments of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
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Kolb EA, Houghton PJ, Kurmasheva RT, Mosse YP, Maris JM, Erickson SW, Guo Y, Teicher BA, Smith MA, Gorlick R. Preclinical evaluation of the combination of AZD1775 and irinotecan against selected pediatric solid tumors: A Pediatric Preclinical Testing Consortium report. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2020; 67:e28098. [PMID: 31975571 PMCID: PMC8752046 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION WEE1 is a serine kinase central to the G2 checkpoint. Inhibition of WEE1 can lead to cell death by permitting cell-cycle progression despite unrepaired DNA damage. AZD1775 is a WEE1 inhibitor that is in clinical development for children and adults with cancer. METHODS AZD1775 was tested using a dose of 120 mg/kg administered orally for days 1 to 5. Irinotecan was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg for days 1 to 5 (one hour after AZD1775 when used in combination). AZD1775 and irinotecan were studied alone and in combination in neuroblastoma (n = 3), osteosarcoma (n = 4), and Wilms tumor (n = 3) xenografts. RESULTS AZD1775 as a single agent showed little activity. Irinotecan induced objective responses in two neuroblastoma lines (PRs), and two Wilms tumor models (CR and PR). The combination of AZD1775 + irinotecan-induced objective responses in two neuroblastoma lines (PR and CR) and all three Wilms tumor lines (CR and 2 PRs). The objective response measure improved compared with single-agent treatment for one neuroblastoma (PR to CR), two osteosarcoma (PD1 to PD2), and one Wilms tumor (PD2 to PR) xenograft lines. Of note, the combination yielded CR (n = 1) and PR (n = 2) in all the Wilms tumor lines. The event-free survival was significantly longer for the combination compared with single-agent irinotecan in all models tested. The magnitude of the increase was greatest in osteosarcoma and Wilms tumor xenografts. CONCLUSIONS AZD1775 potentiates the effects of irinotecan across most of the xenograft lines tested, with effect size appearing to vary across tumor panels.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Anders Kolb
- Nemours Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Wilmington, Delaware
| | | | | | - Yael P. Mosse
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - John M. Maris
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Yuelong Guo
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | | | | | - Richard Gorlick
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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Chen J, Lin Z, Barrett L, Dai L, Qin Z. Identification of new therapeutic targets and natural compounds against diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). Bioorg Chem 2020; 99:103847. [PMID: 32311581 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2020.103847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is a highly aggressive pediatric brainstem tumor which accounts for about 10-20% of childhood brain tumors. The survival rate for DIPG remains very poor, with a median survival of less than 1 year. The dismal prognosis associated with DIPG has been exacerbated by the failure of a large number of clinical trials to meaningfully improve survival compared with radiotherapy, the current standard of care for DIPG. In the current study, we screened a natural product library and for the first time identified 6 natural compounds displaying inhibitory effects on DIPG proliferation and anchorage-independent growth through inducing tumor cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Subsequent RNA-Sequencing and functional validation revealed the molecular mechanisms of these compounds with anti-DIPG activities, and identified new cellular factors such as Fibronectin 1 (FN1) and Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit C-like (EIF3CL), required for DIPG survival as potential therapeutic targets. Our study provides promising directions to fight against this deadly pediatric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungang Chen
- Departments of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Zhen Lin
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, Tulane Cancer Center, 1700 Tulane Ave., New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Lindsey Barrett
- Departments of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Lu Dai
- Departments of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Zhiqiang Qin
- Departments of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA.
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Moreira DC, Venkataraman S, Subramanian A, Desisto J, Balakrishnan I, Prince E, Pierce A, Griesinger A, Green A, Eberhardt CG, Foreman NK, Vibhakar R. Targeting MYC-driven replication stress in medulloblastoma with AZD1775 and gemcitabine. J Neurooncol 2020; 147:531-545. [PMID: 32180106 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-020-03457-0] [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: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE MYC-driven medulloblastomas are highly aggressive childhood tumors with dismal outcomes and a lack of new treatment paradigms. We identified that targeting replication stress through WEE1 inhibition to suppress the S-phase replication checkpoint, combined with the attenuation of nucleotide synthesis with gemcitabine, is an effective strategy to induce apoptosis in MYC-driven medulloblastoma that could be rapidly translated into early phase clinical trials in children. Attenuation of replication stress is a key component of MYC-driven oncogenesis. Previous studies revealed a vulnerability in MYC medulloblastoma through WEE1 inhibition. Here, we focused on elucidating combinations of agents to synergize with WEE1 inhibition and drive replication stress toward cell death. METHODS We first analyzed WEE1 expression in patient tissues by immunohistochemistry. Next, we used high-throughput drug screens to identify agents that would synergize with WEE1 inhibition. Synergy was confirmed by in vitro live cell imaging, ex vivo slice culture models, and in vivo studies using orthotopic and flank xenograft models. RESULTS WEE1 expression was significantly higher in Group 3 and 4 medulloblastoma patients. The WEE1 inhibitor AZD1775 synergized with inhibitors of nucleotide synthesis, including gemcitabine. AZD1775 with gemcitabine suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis. Ex vivo modeling demonstrated efficacy in Group 3 medulloblastoma patients, and in vivo modeling confirmed that combining AZD1775 and gemcitabine effectively suppressed tumor growth. CONCLUSION Our results identified a potent new synergistic treatment combination for MYC-driven medulloblastoma that warrants exploration in early phase clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Moreira
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Sujatha Venkataraman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Apurva Subramanian
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - John Desisto
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ilango Balakrishnan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Eric Prince
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Angela Pierce
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Andrea Griesinger
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Adam Green
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Charles G Eberhardt
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nicholas K Foreman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Rajeev Vibhakar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
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Rashed WM, Maher E, Adel M, Saber O, Zaghloul MS. Pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma: where do we stand? Cancer Metastasis Rev 2020; 38:759-770. [PMID: 31802357 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-019-09824-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) represents approximately 20% of all pediatric CNS tumors. However, disease outcomes are dismal with a median survival of less than 1 year and a 2-year overall survival rate of less than 10%. Despite extensive efforts to improve survival outcomes, progress towards clinical improvement has been largely stagnant throughout the last 4 decades. Focal radiotherapy remains the standard of care with no promising single-agent alternatives and no evidence for improvement with the addition of a long list of systemic therapies. A better understanding of the biology of DIPG, though not easy due to obstacles in obtaining pathological material to study, is promising for the development of specific individualized treatment for this fatal disease. Recent studies have found epigenetic mutations to be successful predictors and prognostic factors for developing future management policies. The aim of this review is to give a global overview about the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of DIPG. We further examine the controversial biopsy and autopsy issue that is unique to DIPG and assess the subsequent impact this issue has on the research efforts and clinical management of DIPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafaa M Rashed
- Research Department, Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo, 57357, Egypt.
| | - Eslam Maher
- Research Department, Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo, 57357, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Adel
- Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ossama Saber
- Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Saad Zaghloul
- Radiotherapy Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University & Children's Cancer Hospital, Cairo, 57357, Egypt.
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Abe H, Natsumeda M, Okada M, Watanabe J, Tsukamoto Y, Kanemaru Y, Yoshimura J, Oishi M, Hashizume R, Kakita A, Fujii Y. MGMT Expression Contributes to Temozolomide Resistance in H3K27M-Mutant Diffuse Midline Gliomas. Front Oncol 2020; 9:1568. [PMID: 32039031 PMCID: PMC6985080 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) show resistance to many chemotherapeutic agents including temozolomide (TMZ). Histone gene mutations in DMGs trigger epigenetic changes including DNA hypomethylation, one of which is a frequent lack of O6-methyl-guanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation, resulting in increased MGMT expression. We established the NGT16 cell line with HIST1H3B K27M and ACVR1 G328E gene mutations from a DMG patient and used this cell line and other DMG cell lines with H3F3A gene mutation (SF7761, SF8628, JHH-DIPG1) to analyze MGMT promoter methylation, MGMT protein expression, and response to TMZ. Three out of 4 DMG cell lines (NGT16, SF8628, and JHH-DIPG1) had unmethylated MGMT promoter, increased MGMT expression, and showed resistance to TMZ treatment. SF7761 cells with H3F3A gene mutation showed MGMT promoter methylation, lacked MGMT expression, and sensitivity to TMZ treatment. NGT16 line showed response to ALK2 inhibitor K02288 treatment in vitro. We confirmed in vitro that MGMT expression contributes to TMZ resistance in DMG cell lines. There is an urgent need to develop new strategies to treat TMZ-resistant DMGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Abe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Manabu Natsumeda
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Masayasu Okada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Jun Watanabe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Tsukamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yu Kanemaru
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Junichi Yoshimura
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Makoto Oishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Rintaro Hashizume
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Akiyoshi Kakita
- Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yukihiko Fujii
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
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