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MacLean MR, Walker OL, Arun RP, Fernando W, Marcato P. Informed by Cancer Stem Cells of Solid Tumors: Advances in Treatments Targeting Tumor-Promoting Factors and Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4102. [PMID: 38612911 PMCID: PMC11012648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074102] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation within tumors that promote cancer progression, metastasis, and recurrence due to their self-renewal capacity and resistance to conventional therapies. CSC-specific markers and signaling pathways highly active in CSCs have emerged as a promising strategy for improving patient outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic targets associated with CSCs of solid tumors across various cancer types, including key molecular markers aldehyde dehydrogenases, CD44, epithelial cellular adhesion molecule, and CD133 and signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and Sonic Hedgehog. We discuss a wide array of therapeutic modalities ranging from targeted antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and near-infrared photoimmunotherapy to advanced genetic approaches like RNA interference, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, aptamers, antisense oligonucleotides, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, CAR natural killer cells, bispecific T cell engagers, immunotoxins, drug-antibody conjugates, therapeutic peptides, and dendritic cell vaccines. This review spans developments from preclinical investigations to ongoing clinical trials, highlighting the innovative targeting strategies that have been informed by CSC-associated pathways and molecules to overcome therapeutic resistance. We aim to provide insights into the potential of these therapies to revolutionize cancer treatment, underscoring the critical need for a multi-faceted approach in the battle against cancer. This comprehensive analysis demonstrates how advances made in the CSC field have informed significant developments in novel targeted therapeutic approaches, with the ultimate goal of achieving more effective and durable responses in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya R. MacLean
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Olivia L. Walker
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Raj Pranap Arun
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Wasundara Fernando
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Paola Marcato
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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Dressler FF, Hinrichs S, Roesch MC, Perner S. EpCAM tumor specificity and proteoform patterns in urothelial cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023:10.1007/s00432-023-04809-9. [PMID: 37154925 PMCID: PMC10374485 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04809-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) in cancer is still unclear. EpCAM cleavage through regulated intramembrane proteolysis results in fragments which interact with both oncogenic and tumor suppressive pathways. Additionally, the EpCAM molecule itself is used as a descriptive therapeutic target in urothelial cancer (UC), while data on its actual tumor specificity remain limited. METHODS Samples from diagnostic formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) UC tissue and fresh-frozen UC cells were immunoblotted and used for qualitative characterization of five different EpCAM fragments. These expression patterns were quantified across a cohort of 76 samples with 52 UC and 24 normal urothelial samples. Cell viability effects of the extracellular EpEX fragment were assessed in the UC cell lines T24 and HT1376. RESULTS The proteolytic EpCAM fragments could be identified in clinical FFPE tissue specimens too. Neither overall nor fragment-specific EpCAM expression showed relevant tumor specificity. EpEX and its deglycosylated variant showed an inverse relationship across healthy and tumor tissue with a decrease of deglycosylated EpEX in tumors. However, extracellular EpEX did not show a relevant effect in vitro. CONCLUSIONS EpCAM should not be regarded as tumor-specific in UC without patient-specific predictive testing. EpCAM fragment patterns indicate cancer-specific changes and could be involved in its complex tumor-biological role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz F Dressler
- Institute of Pathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Sofie Hinrichs
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Marie C Roesch
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Sven Perner
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
- Institute of Pathology and Hematopathology, Hamburg, Germany
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Kalantari E, Taheri T, Fata S, Abolhasani M, Mehrazma M, Madjd Z, Asgari M. Significant co-expression of putative cancer stem cell markers, EpCAM and CD166, correlates with tumor stage and invasive behavior in colorectal cancer. World J Surg Oncol 2022; 20:15. [PMID: 35016698 PMCID: PMC8751119 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-021-02469-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The crucial oncogenic role of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in tumor maintenance, progression, drug resistance, and relapse has been clarified in different cancers, particularly in colorectal cancer (CRC). The current study was conducted to evaluate the co-expression pattern and clinical significance of epithelial cell adhesion molecules (EpCAM) and activated leukocyte cell adhesion (CD166 or ALCAM) in CRC patients. METHODS This study was carried out on 458 paraffin-embedded CRC specimens by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarray (TMA) slides. RESULTS Elevated expression of EpCAM and CD166 was observed in 61.5% (246/427) and 40.5% (164/405) of CRC cases. Our analysis showed a significant positive association of EpCAM expression with tumor size (P = 0.02), tumor stage (P = 0.007), tumor differentiate (P = 0.005), vascular (P = 0.01), neural (P = 0.01), and lymph node (P = 0.001) invasion. There were no significant differences between CD166 expression and clinicopathological parameters. Moreover, the combined analysis demonstrated a reciprocal significant correlation between EpCAM and CD166 expression (P = 0.02). Interestingly, there was a significant positive correlation between EpCAM/CD166 phenotypes expression and tumor stage (P = 0.03), tumor differentiation (P = 0.05), neural, and lymph node invasion (P =0.01). CONCLUSIONS The significant correlation of EpCAM and CD166 expression and their association with tumor progression and aggressive behavior is the reason for the suggestion of these two CSC markers as promising targets to promote novel effective targeted-therapy strategies for cancer treatment in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Kalantari
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Tahereh Taheri
- Department of Pathology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Fata
- Department of Pathology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Abolhasani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Department of Pathology, Hasheminejad kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mitra Mehrazma
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mojgan Asgari
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
- Department of Pathology, Hasheminejad kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Functional Implications of the Dynamic Regulation of EpCAM during Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11070956. [PMID: 34209658 PMCID: PMC8301972 DOI: 10.3390/biom11070956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed in epithelial tissues. EpCAM forms intercellular, homophilic adhesions, modulates epithelial junctional protein complex formation, and promotes epithelial tissue homeostasis. EpCAM is a target of molecular therapies and plays a prominent role in tumor biology. In this review, we focus on the dynamic regulation of EpCAM expression during epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the functional implications of EpCAM expression on the regulation of EMT. EpCAM is frequently and highly expressed in epithelial cancers, while silenced in mesenchymal cancers. During EMT, EpCAM expression is downregulated by extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) and EMT transcription factors, as well as by regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP). The functional impact of EpCAM expression on tumor biology is frequently dependent on the cancer type and predominant oncogenic signaling pathways, suggesting that the role of EpCAM in tumor biology and EMT is multifunctional. Membrane EpCAM is cleaved in cancers and its intracellular domain (EpICD) is transported into the nucleus and binds β-catenin, FHL2, and LEF1. This stimulates gene transcription that promotes growth, cancer stem cell properties, and EMT. EpCAM is also regulated by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling and the EpCAM ectoderm (EpEX) is an EGFR ligand that affects EMT. EpCAM is expressed on circulating tumor and cancer stem cells undergoing EMT and modulates metastases and cancer treatment responses. Future research exploring EpCAM’s role in EMT may reveal additional therapeutic opportunities.
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Schmidt M, Antke C, Mattes-György K, Hautzel H, Allelein S, Haase M, Dringenberg T, Schott M, Ehlers M. Radioiodine therapy reduces the frequency of circulating tumour cells in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2021; 94:1004-1011. [PMID: 33484159 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was the quantification of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) in differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) patients before and 6 weeks after radioiodine therapy (RIT). CONTEXT Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) were described more recently in cancer patients, mostly correlating with poor outcome and advanced metastases. DESIGN Peripheral blood for identification and quantification of CTC before RIT or/and 6 weeks after RIT was provided by 55 DTC patients that received RIT for remnant tissue ablation. PATIENTS 13 follicular thyroid cancer (FTC) patients, 31 papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) patients and 11 patients having the follicular variant PTC (FV-PTC) were included. MEASUREMENTS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated and EpCAM-positive CTCs were counted by immune fluorescent staining. RESULTS A CTC positivity of 31.8% before RIT could be observed. Six weeks after RIT, the CTC positivity was reduced to 13.6%. Paired data at both time points of blood sampling could be gathered for n = 33 DTC patients. These patients had significantly higher CTC numbers before RIT than 6 weeks afterwards (0.27 ± 0.47 vs 0.05 ± 0.15, P = .0215). Additionally, significantly reduced CTC numbers were also demonstrated in pre-RIT CTC-positive patients (0.88 ± 0.43 vs 0.05 ± 0.16, P = .0039). CONCLUSION Our results indicate a reducing effect on the number of CTCs by RIT. Therefore, CTC enumeration should be considered as efficient tool for treatment monitoring during RIT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Schmidt
- Division for Specific Endocrinology, Medical Faculty, University of Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Christina Antke
- Clinic for Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Hubertus Hautzel
- Clinic for Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Stephanie Allelein
- Division for Specific Endocrinology, Medical Faculty, University of Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Matthias Haase
- Division for Specific Endocrinology, Medical Faculty, University of Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Till Dringenberg
- Division for Specific Endocrinology, Medical Faculty, University of Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Matthias Schott
- Division for Specific Endocrinology, Medical Faculty, University of Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Margret Ehlers
- Division for Specific Endocrinology, Medical Faculty, University of Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
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Gires O, Pan M, Schinke H, Canis M, Baeuerle PA. Expression and function of epithelial cell adhesion molecule EpCAM: where are we after 40 years? Cancer Metastasis Rev 2020; 39:969-987. [PMID: 32507912 PMCID: PMC7497325 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-020-09898-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
EpCAM (epithelial cell adhesion molecule) was discovered four decades ago as a tumor antigen on colorectal carcinomas. Owing to its frequent and high expression on carcinomas and their metastases, EpCAM serves as a prognostic marker, a therapeutic target, and an anchor molecule on circulating and disseminated tumor cells (CTCs/DTCs), which are considered the major source for metastatic cancer cells. Today, EpCAM is reckoned as a multi-functional transmembrane protein involved in the regulation of cell adhesion, proliferation, migration, stemness, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of carcinoma cells. To fulfill these functions, EpCAM is instrumental in intra- and intercellular signaling as a full-length molecule and following regulated intramembrane proteolysis, generating functionally active extra- and intracellular fragments. Intact EpCAM and its proteolytic fragments interact with claudins, CD44, E-cadherin, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and intracellular signaling components of the WNT and Ras/Raf pathways, respectively. This plethora of functions contributes to shaping intratumor heterogeneity and partial EMT, which are major determinants of the clinical outcome of carcinoma patients. EpCAM represents a marker for the epithelial status of primary and systemic tumor cells and emerges as a measure for the metastatic capacity of CTCs. Consequentially, EpCAM has reclaimed potential as a prognostic marker and target on primary and systemic tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Gires
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Group "Personalized Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer", Helmholtz Zentrum, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Min Pan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Henrik Schinke
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Canis
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Patrick A Baeuerle
- Institute for Immunology, LMU Munich, Grosshadernerstr. 9, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany
- MPM Capital, Cambridge MA, 450 Kendall Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
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Wang MH, Sun R, Zhou XM, Zhang MY, Lu JB, Yang Y, Zeng LS, Yang XZ, Shi L, Xiao RW, Wang HY, Mai SJ. Epithelial cell adhesion molecule overexpression regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition, stemness and metastasis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells via the PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:2. [PMID: 29305578 PMCID: PMC5849035 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-017-0013-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is known to be highly expressed in a variety of epithelial carcinomas, and it is involved in cell adhesion and proliferation. However, its expression profile and biological function in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains unclear. In this study, higher expression of EpCAM was found in NPC samples compared with non-cancer nasopharyngeal mucosa by qRT-PCR. Additionally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis of NPC specimens from 64 cases showed that high EpCAM expression was associated with metastasis and shorter survival. Multivariate survival analysis identified high EpCAM expression as an independent prognostic factor. Ectopic EpCAM expression in NPC cells promoted epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), induced a cancer stem cell (CSC)-like phenotype, and enhanced metastasis in vitro and in vivo without an effect on cell proliferation. Notably, EpCAM overexpression reduced PTEN expression and increased the level of AKT, mTOR, p70S6K and 4EBP1 phosphorylation. Correspondingly, an AKT inhibitor and rapamycin blocked the effect of EpCAM on NPC cell invasion and stem-like phenotypes, and siRNA targeting PTEN rescued the oncogenic activities in EpCAM knockdown NPC cells. Our data demonstrate that EpCAM regulates EMT, stemness and metastasis of NPC cells via the PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-He Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Department of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Min Zhou
- Zhoukou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhoukou, China
| | - Mei-Yin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Bin Lu
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Si Zeng
- Cancer Center of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xian-Zi Yang
- Cancer Center of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruo-Wen Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui-Yun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China. .,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Shi-Juan Mai
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China. .,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
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Winkens T, Pachmann K, Freesmeyer M. Circulating epithelial cells in patients with thyroid carcinoma. Nuklearmedizin 2018; 52:7-13. [DOI: 10.3413/nukmed-0524-12-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 11/25/2012] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Summary
Goal: To investigate whether circulating epithelial cells (CEC) recognized via the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) can be identified in the blood of patients with thyroid carcinoma, given that CEC have already been detected in other types of carcinoma and are considered a potential marker of tumour dissemination. Patients, methods: Blood samples of patients with active differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) (n = 50) were compared to samples of patients with: a) recent surgical excision of a thyroid carcinoma (postOP-DTC) (n = 16); b) athyreotic, tumour-free status after radioiodine ablation (AT-DTC) (n= 33); and c) benign thyroid diseases (BTD) (n = 51). Samples of volunteers with normal thyroid parameters (NT) (n = 12) were also investigated. Cells from EDTAblood were subjected to erythrocyte lysis, isolated by centrifugation, and incubated with a fluorescence-labeled antibody against EpCAM. The numbers of vital cells were counted via fluorescence microscopy. Results: CEC were identified in all groups, with the postOP-DTC group showing the highest mean CEC numbers of all groups. The DTC group had significantly higher CEC numbers than the NT group, and numerically higher numbers than the other groups, although not reaching statistical significance. Within the DTC group there was a correlation between levels of serum thyroglobulin and numbers of CEC (r = 0.409, p = 0.003). Conclusions: High CEC numbers were not specific to thyroid carcinoma. The methodology used here, based on a single measurement does not allow to identify severe forms of DTC, emphasizing the need of longitudinal measurements throughout therapy. Detection and characterization of tumour thyroid cells in circulation should be based on additiona l consideration of tissue-specific characteristics.
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Xu JY, Handy B, Michaelis CL, Waguespack SG, Hu MI, Busaidy N, Jimenez C, Cabanillas ME, Fritsche HA, Cote GJ, Sherman SI. Detection and Prognostic Significance of Circulating Tumor Cells in Patients With Metastatic Thyroid Cancer. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2016; 101:4461-4467. [PMID: 27575943 PMCID: PMC5095245 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-2567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Individual patient prognostication for advanced thyroid cancer (TC) is challenging. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been shown to be a valuable prognostic marker for other solid cancers. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that CTCs are present in the blood of patients with advanced TC and their number can predict overall survival (OS). SETTING This is a prospective study at a tertiary cancer hospital. Patients, Interventions, and Main Outcome Measures: Initial studies were performed with TC cell lines to determine the feasibility of detection using the Veridex CellSearch. CTC enumeration was performed in blood samples from 18 patients with distantly metastatic medullary TC (metMTC), 14 with distantly metastatic differentiated TC (metDTC), and 10 controls with a history of TC but no evidence of disease. The prognostic value of CTC levels to predict OS in metMTC patients was assessed. RESULTS CellSearch detected cells from MTC and DTC but not anaplastic TC cell lines. Six metMTC patients but no metDTC or control patients had more than or equal to 5 CTCs detected by the CellSearch assay. Median survival in metMTC patients with more than or equal to 5 CTCs was 13 months vs 51.5 months for those with less than 5 CTCs (P = .0116). The hazard ratio for mortality of patients with more than or equal to 5 CTCs compared with those with less than 5 CTCs was 3.95 (1.20-13.0, P = .0245). CONCLUSIONS The presence of more than or equal to 5 CTCs in patients with metMTC is associated with worse OS. Larger cohorts are required to validate the prognostic value of CTC enumeration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yu Xu
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Beverly Handy
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Christina L Michaelis
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Steven G Waguespack
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Mimi I Hu
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Naifa Busaidy
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Camilo Jimenez
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Maria E Cabanillas
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Herbert A Fritsche
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Gilbert J Cote
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Steven I Sherman
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders (J.Y.X., C.L.M., S.G.W., M.I.H., N.B., C.J., M.E.C., G.J.C., S.I.S.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; and Laboratory Medicine (B.H., H.A.F.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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Thamm DH, Hayes DF, Meuten T, Laver T, Thomas DG. Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule Expression in Canine Tumours. J Comp Pathol 2016; 155:299-304. [PMID: 27567927 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2016.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is expressed in most human normal and neoplastic tissues of epithelial derivation and may have an association with tumour cell aggressiveness, a stem cell-like phenotype and clinical outcome. Antibody-based strategies for the targeting and capture of EpCAM-expressing tumour cells are showing promise, both as diagnostic tools and potential therapies. The aim of this study was to assess EpCAM expression in canine tumours. EpCAM expression was assessed in tumour cell lines via gene expression profiling and in formalin-fixed and paraffin wax-embedded tissues from canine carcinomas representing various anatomical sites by immunohistochemistry. EpCAM mRNA expression was higher in cell lines from carcinomas than those derived from sarcomas or haemopoietic tumours. EpCAM was expressed by >2/3 of tumour cells in 71% of canine carcinomas evaluated, irrespective of histotype, with the exception of carcinomas of the adrenal gland. Canine sarcomas and haemopoietic tumours were uniformly negative. Most canine carcinomas express EpCAM and so could be suitable for the study of EpCAM-directed diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- D H Thamm
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA; Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA; University of Colorado Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1665 N. Ursula St., Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - D F Hayes
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, 1500 E. Medical Center Drive SPC 5942, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - T Meuten
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - T Laver
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - D G Thomas
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, 1500 E. Medical Center Drive SPC 5942, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Enhanced ADCC and NK Cell Activation of an Anticarcinoma Bispecific Antibody by Genetic Insertion of a Modified IL-15 Cross-linker. Mol Ther 2016; 24:1312-22. [PMID: 27157665 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2016.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, we constructed a bispecific NK-cell-engager (BiKE) bearing single-chain variable fragments (scFv) against CD16 on NK cells and EpCAM on tumor cells. This BiKE facilitated antigen-specific antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) but did not induce NK cell expansion. We incorporated a modified interleukin-15 cross-linker to create a trispecific construct (TriKE) in order to improve activation, proliferation, and survival of NK cells. Synthesis and assembly of hybrid genes encoding the TriKE was accomplished using DNA-shuffling and DNA-ligation techniques. The TriKE was tested for specificity, efficacy, proliferative capability, and cytokine profile using functional assays. The molecular modifications improved yield without compromising binding to EpCAM(+) HT-29 colorectal carcinoma cells. (51)Chromium-release and degranulation assays showed better killing rates with TriKE compared to BiKE. TriKE was more active in a variety of different carcinoma cell lines. TriKE showed the ability to stimulate expansion of CD56(+)CD3(-) NK cells. BiKE and TriKE showed enhanced but not supraphysiologic levels of cytokine secretion. 1615EpCAM TriKE drives enhanced ADCC while significantly improving proliferation, activation, and survival of NK cell effectors. The TriKE provides a selectively delivered self-sustaining signal at the NK/tumor cell synapse. Targeted cytokine stimulation, rather than systemic cytokine administration, may impact toxicity in patients rendering the TriKE a promising new off-the-shelf carcinoma therapy.
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Caceres G, Puskas JA, Magliocco AM. Circulating Tumor Cells: A Window Into Tumor Development and Therapeutic Effectiveness. Cancer Control 2016; 22:167-76. [PMID: 26068761 DOI: 10.1177/107327481502200207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are an important diagnostic tool for understanding the metastatic process and the development of cancer. METHODS This review covers the background, relevance, and potential limitations of CTCs as a measurement of cancer progression and how information derived from CTCs may affect treatment efficacy. It also highlights the difficulties of characterizing these rare cells due to the limited cell surface molecules unique to CTCs and each particular type of cancer. RESULTS The analysis of cancer in real time, through the measure of the number of CTCs in a " liquid" biopsy specimen, gives us the ability to monitor the therapeutic efficacy of treatments and possibly the metastatic potential of a tumor. CONCLUSIONS Through novel and innovative techniques yielding encouraging results, including microfluidic techniques, isolating and molecularly analyzing CTCs are becoming a reality. CTCs hold promise for understanding how tumors work and potentially aiding in their demise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Caceres
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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Assi J, Srivastava G, Matta A, MacMillan C, Ralhan R, Walfish PG. Nuclear Ep-ICD expression is a predictor of poor prognosis in "low risk" prostate adenocarcinomas. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0107586. [PMID: 25695234 PMCID: PMC4335027 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Molecular markers for predicting prostate cancer (PCa) that would have poor prognosis are urgently needed for a more personalized treatment for patients. Regulated intramembrane proteolysis of Epithelial cell adhesion molecule results in shedding of the extracellular domain (EpEx) and release of its intracellular domain (Ep-ICD) which triggers oncogenic signaling and might correlate to tumor aggressiveness. This study aimed to explore the potential of Ep-ICD and EpEx to identify PCa that have poor prognosis. METHODS Immunohistochemical analysis of Ep-ICD and EpEx was carried out in normal prostate tissues (n = 100), benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH, n = 83), and prostate cancer (n = 249) using domain specific antibodies. The expression of Ep-ICD and EpEx was correlated with clinico- pathological parameters and disease free survival (DFS). RESULTS Reduced expression of nuclear Ep-ICD and membrane EpEx was observed in PCa in comparison with BPH and normal prostate tissues (p = 0.006, p < 0.001 respectively). For patients who had PCa with Gleason Score less than 7, preserved nuclear Ep-ICD emerged as the most significant marker in multivariate analysis for prolonged DFS, where these patients did not have recurrence during follow up of up to 12 years (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Reduced expression of nuclear Ep-ICD was associated with shorter disease free survival in patients with a Gleason Score less than 7 and may be useful in identifying patients likely to have aggressive tumors with poor prognosis. Furthermore, nuclear Ep-ICD can differentiate between normal and prostate cancer tissues for ambiguous cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmeet Assi
- Alex and Simona Shnaider Laboratory in Molecular Oncology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gunjan Srivastava
- Alex and Simona Shnaider Laboratory in Molecular Oncology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ajay Matta
- Alex and Simona Shnaider Laboratory in Molecular Oncology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christina MacMillan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ranju Ralhan
- Alex and Simona Shnaider Laboratory in Molecular Oncology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Joseph and Mildred Sonshine Family Centre for Head and Neck Diseases, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail: (PGW); (RR)
| | - Paul G. Walfish
- Alex and Simona Shnaider Laboratory in Molecular Oncology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Joseph and Mildred Sonshine Family Centre for Head and Neck Diseases, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Endocrine Division, Mount Sinai Hospital and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail: (PGW); (RR)
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A novel COX-independent mechanism of sulindac sulfide involves cleavage of epithelial cell adhesion molecule protein. Exp Cell Res 2014; 326:1-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2014.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Yang Y, Fei F, Song Y, Li X, Zhang Z, Fei Z, Su H, Wan S. Polymorphisms of EpCAM gene and prognosis for non-small-cell lung cancer in Han Chinese. Cancer Sci 2013; 105:89-96. [PMID: 24304228 PMCID: PMC4317886 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Revised: 10/28/2013] [Accepted: 10/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is overexpressed in a wide variety of human cancers and is associated with patient prognosis, including those with lung cancer. However, the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the EpCAM gene with the prognosis for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients has never been investigated. We evaluated the association between two SNPs, rs1126497 and rs1421, in the EpCAM gene and clinical outcomes in a Chinese cohort of 506 NSCLC patients. The SNPs were genotyped using the Sequenom iPLEX genotyping system. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model and Kaplan-Meier curves were used to assess the association of EpCAM gene genotypes with the prognosis of NSCLC. We found that the non-synonymous SNP rs1126497 was significantly associated with survival. Compared with the CC genotype, the CT+TT genotype was a risk factor for both death (hazard ratio, 1.40; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-1.94; P = 0.040) and recurrence (hazard ratio, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.02-1.77; P = 0.039). However, the SNP rs1421 did not show any significant effect on patient prognosis. Instead, the AG+GG genotype in rs1421 was significantly associated with early T stages (T1/T2) when compared with the AA genotype (odds ratio for late stage = 0.65; 95% CI, 0.44-0.96, P = 0.029). Further stratified analysis showed notable modulating effects of clinical characteristics on the associations between variant genotypes of rs1126497 and NSCLC outcomes. In conclusion, our study indicated that the non-synonymous SNP rs1126497 may be a potential prognostic marker for NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuefan Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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16
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Abstract
Despite significant advances in surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy to treat prostate cancer (CaP), many patients die of secondary disease (metastases). Current therapeutic approaches are limited, and there is no cure for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM, also known as CD326) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is highly expressed in rapidly proliferating carcinomas and plays an important role in the prevention of cell-cell adhesion, cell signalling, migration, proliferation and differentiation. Stably and highly expressed EpCAM has been found in primary CaP tissues, effusions and CaP metastases, making it an ideal candidate of tumour-associated antigen to detect metastasis of CaP cells in the circulation as well as a promising therapeutic target to control metastatic CRPC disease. In this review, we discuss the implications of the newly identified roles of EpCAM in terms of its diagnostic and metastatic relevance to CaP. We also summarize EpCAM expression in human CaP and EpCAM-mediated signalling pathways in cancer metastasis. Finally, emerging and innovative approaches to the management of the disease and expanding potential therapeutic applications of EpCAM for targeted strategies in future CaP therapy will be explored.
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Bae JS, Noh SJ, Jang KY, Park HS, Chung MJ, Park CK, Moon WS. Expression and role of epithelial cell adhesion molecule in dysplastic nodule and hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Oncol 2012; 41:2150-8. [PMID: 22993038 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2012.1631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2012] [Accepted: 08/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) has been proposed as a marker for cancer stem cells in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the function and clinical significance of EpCAM in HCC is largely unknown. We examined EpCAM expression and localization in 28 dysplastic nodules (DNs) and their corresponding cirrhotic nodules, 79 HCC tissue sections and 132 HCC tissue microarray cores by immunohistochemistry and determined the relationship to clinicopathologic findings. We also examined the role of EpCAM in HCC using synthetic small interfering RNA to silence EpCAM gene expression in Huh-7 cells. EpCAM expression was very rare in DNs but dominantly appeared in a distinctly nodular type of small HCC. Expression of EpCAM was observed in 39% (31/79) of HCC tissue sections and in 34.1% (45/132) of tissue microarray sections. EpCAM expression in HCC was significantly associated with high tumor grade and serum α-fetoprotein level. Silencing EpCAM gene expression significantly decreased the proliferative activity and invasiveness of HCC cells. EpCAM expression was an independent prognostic factor for survival in patients with T1 HCC. The data indicate that EpCAM expression occurs at distinct nodular stage of HCC and could play an important role in HCC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Sang Bae
- Department of Pathology, Chonbuk National University, Medical School, and Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
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Gómez Sáez JM. Diagnostic and prognostic markers in differentiated thyroid cancer. Curr Genomics 2012; 12:597-608. [PMID: 22654559 PMCID: PMC3271312 DOI: 10.2174/138920211798120826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2011] [Revised: 08/08/2011] [Accepted: 09/07/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The MAPK/ERK (mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal- regulated kinase signaling pathway) and PI3K/Akt (lipid kinase phoshoinositide-3-kinase signaling pathway) play an important role in transmission of cell signals through transduction systems as ligands, transmembrane receptors and cytoplasmic secondary messengers to cell nucleus, where they influence the expression of genes that regulate important cellular processes: cell growth, proliferation and apoptosis. The genes, coding the signaling cascade proteins (RET, RAS, BRAF, PI3K, PTEN, AKT), are mutated or aberrantly expressed in thyroid cancer derived from follicular thyroid cell. Genetic and epigenetic alternations, concerning MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, contribute to their activation and interaction in consequence of malignant follicular cell transformation. Moreover, it is additionally pointed out that genetic, as well as epigenetic DNA changing via aberrant methylation of several tumor suppressor and thyroid-specific genes is associated with tumor aggressiveness, being a jointly responsible mechanism for thyroid tumorigenesis. In the present manuscript the currently developed diagnostic and prognostic genetic/epigenetic markers are presented; the understanding of this molecular mechanism provides access to novel molecular therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Gómez Sáez
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, University Hospital of Bellvitge, L´Hospitalet of Llobregat, Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Barcelona, Spain
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Functional polymorphism in the EpCAM gene is associated with occurrence and advanced disease status of cervical cancer in Chinese population. Mol Biol Rep 2012; 39:7303-9. [PMID: 22322561 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-012-1560-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2011] [Accepted: 01/24/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) was originally identified as a tumor associated antigen, attributable to its high expression on rapidly proliferating tumors of epithelial origin. EpCAM plays vital roles in carcinogenesis, tumor progression and metastasis in most tumors. A non-synonymous polymorphism (rs1126497 C/T) was found in exon 3 of EpCAM, which cause a transition from 115 Met to 115 Thr. Another polymorphism (rs1421 A/G) in the 3'UTR causes loss of has-miR-1183 binding. We performed a multiple independent case-control analysis to assess the association between EpCAM genotypes and cervical cancer risk. Genotyping a total of 518 patients with cervical cancer and 723 control subjects in a Chinese population, we observed that the variant EpCAM genotypes (rs1126497 CT, and TT) were associated with substantially increased risk of cervical cancer. Compared with the rs1126497 CC genotype, CT genotype had a significantly increased risk of cervical cancer (Crude OR = 1.70; 95% CI = 1.33-2.20; adjusted OR = 1.72; 95% CI = 1.33-2.22), the TT carriers had a further increased risk of cervical cancer (Crude OR = 1.94; 95% CI = 1.01-3.72; adjusted OR = 1.96; 95%CI = 1.01-3.81), and there was a trend for an allele dose effect on risk of cervical cancer (P < 0.001). Moreover, the allele T increases the risk for invasive disease or metastatic disease, compared with C allele. However, there exists no significant difference in genotype frequencies of rs1421 A/G site between cases and controls (P = 0.798). These findings suggest that rs1126497 C/T polymorphism in EpCAM may be a genetic modifier for developing cervical cancer.
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Sipina LV, Bukurova YA, Nikitina IG, Krasnov GS, Sergeev SA, Lisitsyn NA, Karpov VL, Beresten SF. Identification of proteins overexpressed in papillary thyroid tumors. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2011; 75:1148-52. [PMID: 21077834 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297910090087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A modified method of proteome comparative analysis based on preliminary removal of cell structural proteins by extraction using salt buffer and subsequent separation of extracts by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis was developed. Identification of differentially expressed proteins by mass spectrometry has revealed three proteins with noticeably increased level of synthesis in most samples of papillary thyroid tumors compared to normal tissues. An increase in ubiquitin content was found for the first time. Oncomarker search efficiencies by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and bioinformatic search were compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- L V Sipina
- Clinical Research Center PreMed, Moscow, 121357, Russia.
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van der Gun BTF, Melchers LJ, Ruiters MHJ, de Leij LFMH, McLaughlin PMJ, Rots MG. EpCAM in carcinogenesis: the good, the bad or the ugly. Carcinogenesis 2010; 31:1913-21. [PMID: 20837599 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgq187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is a membrane glycoprotein that is highly expressed on most carcinomas and therefore of potential use as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for a variety of carcinomas. Interestingly, EpCAM is explored as target in antibody-based therapies. Recently, EpCAM has been identified as an additional marker of cancer-initiating cells. In this review, we describe the controversial biological role of EpCAM with the focus on carcinogenesis: as an adhesion molecule, EpCAM mediates homophilic adhesion interactions, which in turn might prevent metastasis. On the other hand, EpCAM abrogates E-cadherin mediated cell-cell adhesion thereby promoting metastasis. Also, upon cleavage of EpCAM, the intracellular domain functions as a part of a transcriptional complex inducing c-myc and cyclin A and E. In line with these seemingly controversial roles, EpCAM overexpression has been associated with both decreased and increased survival of patients. Similarly, either induction or downregulation of EpCAM expression lowers the oncogenic potential depending on the cell type. As epigenetic dysregulation underlies aberrant EpCAM expression, we propose epigenetic editing as a novel approach to investigate the biological role of EpCAM, expanding the options for EpCAM as a therapeutic target in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardina T F van der Gun
- Epigenetic Editing, Department of Medical Biology, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, Groningen, TheNetherlands
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Ralhan R, Cao J, Lim T, Macmillan C, Freeman JL, Walfish PG. EpCAM nuclear localization identifies aggressive thyroid cancer and is a marker for poor prognosis. BMC Cancer 2010; 10:331. [PMID: 20579375 PMCID: PMC2912862 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-10-331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2009] [Accepted: 06/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Proteolytic cleavage of the extracellular domain (EpEx) of Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and nuclear signaling by its intracellular oncogenic domain Ep-ICD has recently been implicated in increased proliferation of cancer cells. The clinical significance of Ep-ICD in human tumors remains an enigma. Methods EpEx, Ep-ICD and β-catenin immunohistochemistry using specific antibodies was conducted on 58 archived thyroid cancer (TC) tissue blocks from 34 patients and correlated with survival analysis of these patients for up to 17 years. Results The anaplastic (ATC) and aggressive thyroid cancers showed loss of EpEx and increased nuclear and cytoplasmic accumulation of Ep-ICD. In contrast, the low grade papillary thyroid cancers (PTC) showed membranous EpEx and no detectable nuclear Ep-ICD. The ATC also showed concomitant nuclear expression of Ep-ICD and β-catenin. Kaplan-Meier Survival analysis revealed reduced overall survival (OS) for TC patients showing nuclear Ep-ICD expression or loss of membranous EpEx (p < 0.0004), median OS = 5 months as compared to 198 months for patients who did not show nuclear Ep-ICD or demonstrated only membranous EpE. Conclusion We report reciprocal loss of membrane EpEx but increased nuclear and cytoplasmic accumulation of Ep-ICD in aggressive TC; nuclear Ep-ICD correlated with poor OS of TC patients. Thus nuclear Ep-ICD localization may serve as a useful biomarker for aggressive TC and may represent a novel diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic target for aggressive TC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranju Ralhan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery Program, Joseph and Mildred Sonshine Family Centre for Head and Neck Diseases, Mount Sinai Hospital, Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Health Complex, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G1X5, Canada.
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