1
|
Warmke LM, Collier CD, Niziolek PJ, Davis JL, Zou YS, Michal M, Bell RC, Policarpio-Nicolas MLC, Cheng YW, Duckworth L, Dermawan JK, Fritchie KJ, Dehner CA. Novel CRTC1::MRTFB(MKL2) Gene Fusion Detected in Myxoid Mesenchymal Neoplasms With Myogenic Differentiation Involving Bone and Soft Tissues. Mod Pathol 2024; 37:100518. [PMID: 38763420 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2024.100518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Appropriate classification of fusion-driven bone and soft tissue neoplasms continues to evolve, often relying on the careful integration of morphologic findings with immunohistochemical, molecular, and clinical data. Herein, we present 3 cases of a morphologically distinct myxoid mesenchymal neoplasm with myogenic differentiation and novel CRTC1::MRTFB (formerly MKL2) gene fusion. Three tumors occurred in 1 male and 2 female patients with a median age of 72 years (range: 28-78). Tumors involved the left iliac bone, the right thigh, and the left perianal region with a median size of 4.0 cm (4.0-7.6 cm). Although 1 tumor presented as an incidental finding, the other 2 tumors were noted, given their persistent growth. At the time of the last follow-up, 1 patient was alive with unresected disease at 6 months, 1 patient was alive without evidence of disease at 12 months after surgery, and 1 patient died of disease 24 months after diagnosis. On histologic sections, the tumors showed multinodular growth and were composed of variably cellular spindle to round-shaped cells with distinct brightly eosinophilic cytoplasm embedded within a myxoid stroma. One tumor showed overt smooth muscle differentiation. Cytologic atypia and mitotic activity ranged from minimal (2 cases) to high (1 case). By immunohistochemistry, the neoplastic cells expressed focal smooth muscle actin, h-caldesmon, and desmin in all tested cases. Skeletal muscle markers were negative. Next-generation sequencing detected nearly identical CRTC1::MRTFB gene fusions in all cases. We suggest that myxoid mesenchymal tumors with myogenic differentiation harboring a CRTC1::MRTFB fusion may represent a previously unrecognized, distinctive entity that involves soft tissue and bone. Continued identification of these novel myxoid neoplasms with myogenic differentiation will be important in determining appropriate classification, understanding biologic potential, and creating treatment paradigms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Warmke
- Department of Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Christopher D Collier
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Paul J Niziolek
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Musculoskeletal Imaging, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jessica L Davis
- Department of Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Ying S Zou
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Robert C Bell
- Department of Pathology, Michigan University, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Yu-Wei Cheng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Lauren Duckworth
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Josephine K Dermawan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Karen J Fritchie
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Carina A Dehner
- Department of Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wachtel M, Surdez D, Grünewald TGP, Schäfer BW. Functional Classification of Fusion Proteins in Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1355. [PMID: 38611033 PMCID: PMC11010897 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas comprise a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors of mesenchymal origin. More than 80 entities are associated with different mesenchymal lineages. Sarcomas with fibroblastic, muscle, bone, vascular, adipocytic, and other characteristics are distinguished. Nearly half of all entities contain specific chromosomal translocations that give rise to fusion proteins. These are mostly pathognomonic, and their detection by various molecular techniques supports histopathologic classification. Moreover, the fusion proteins act as oncogenic drivers, and their blockade represents a promising therapeutic approach. This review summarizes the current knowledge on fusion proteins in sarcoma. We categorize the different fusion proteins into functional classes, including kinases, epigenetic regulators, and transcription factors, and describe their mechanisms of action. Interestingly, while fusion proteins acting as transcription factors are found in all mesenchymal lineages, the others have a more restricted pattern. Most kinase-driven sarcomas belong to the fibroblastic/myofibroblastic lineage. Fusion proteins with an epigenetic function are mainly associated with sarcomas of unclear differentiation, suggesting that epigenetic dysregulation leads to a major change in cell identity. Comparison of mechanisms of action reveals recurrent functional modes, including antagonism of Polycomb activity by fusion proteins with epigenetic activity and recruitment of histone acetyltransferases by fusion transcription factors of the myogenic lineage. Finally, based on their biology, we describe potential approaches to block the activity of fusion proteins for therapeutic intervention. Overall, our work highlights differences as well as similarities in the biology of fusion proteins from different sarcomas and provides the basis for a functional classification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Wachtel
- Department of Oncology and Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital, Steinwiesstrasse 75, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Didier Surdez
- Balgrist University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich (UZH), CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas G. P. Grünewald
- Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Hopp-Children’s Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), NCT Heidelberg, a Partnership between DKFZ and Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Beat W. Schäfer
- Department of Oncology and Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital, Steinwiesstrasse 75, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Almorox L, Antequera L, Rojas I, Herrera LJ, Ortuño FM. Gene Expression Analysis for Uterine Cervix and Corpus Cancer Characterization. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:312. [PMID: 38540371 PMCID: PMC10970626 DOI: 10.3390/genes15030312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The analysis of gene expression quantification data is a powerful and widely used approach in cancer research. This work provides new insights into the transcriptomic changes that occur in healthy uterine tissue compared to those in cancerous tissues and explores the differences associated with uterine cancer localizations and histological subtypes. To achieve this, RNA-Seq data from the TCGA database were preprocessed and analyzed using the KnowSeq package. Firstly, a kNN model was applied to classify uterine cervix cancer, uterine corpus cancer, and healthy uterine samples. Through variable selection, a three-gene signature was identified (VWCE, CLDN15, ADCYAP1R1), achieving consistent 100% test accuracy across 20 repetitions of a 5-fold cross-validation. A supplementary similar analysis using miRNA-Seq data from the same samples identified an optimal two-gene miRNA-coding signature potentially regulating the three-gene signature previously mentioned, which attained optimal classification performance with an 82% F1-macro score. Subsequently, a kNN model was implemented for the classification of cervical cancer samples into their two main histological subtypes (adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma). A uni-gene signature (ICA1L) was identified, achieving 100% test accuracy through 20 repetitions of a 5-fold cross-validation and externally validated through the CGCI program. Finally, an examination of six cervical adenosquamous carcinoma (mixed) samples revealed a pattern where the gene expression value in the mixed class aligned closer to the histological subtype with lower expression, prompting a reconsideration of the diagnosis for these mixed samples. In summary, this study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of uterine cervix and corpus cancers. The newly identified gene signatures demonstrate robust predictive capabilities, guiding future research in cancer diagnosis and treatment methodologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ignacio Rojas
- Department of Computer Engineering, Automatics and Robotics, C.I.T.I.C., University of Granada, Periodista Rafael Gómez Montero, 2, 18014 Granada, Spain; (L.A.); (L.A.); (L.J.H.); (F.M.O.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Suurmeijer AJH, Dickson BC, Antonescu CR. Complementary value of molecular analysis to expert review in refining classification of uncommon soft tissue tumors. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2024; 63:e23196. [PMID: 37702439 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.23196] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The classification of many soft tissue tumors remains subjective due their rarity, significant overlap in microscopic features and often a non-specific immunohistochemical (IHC) profile. The application of molecular genetic tools, which leverage the underlying molecular pathogenesis of these neoplasms, have considerably improved the diagnostic abilities of pathologists and refined classification based on objective molecular markers. In this study, we describe the results of an international collaboration conducted over a 3-year period, assessing the added diagnostic value of applying molecular genetics to sarcoma expert pathologic review in a selected series of 84 uncommon, mostly unclassifiable mesenchymal tumors, 74 of which originated in soft tissues and 10 in bone. The case mix (71% historical, 29% contemporary) included mostly unusual and challenging soft tissue tumors, which remained unclassified even with the benefit of expert review and routine ancillary methods, including broad IHC panels and a limited number of commercially available fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probes. All cases were further tested by FISH using a wide range of custom bacterial artificial chromosome probes covering most of known fusions in sarcomas, whereas targeted RNA sequencing was performed in 13 cases negative by FISH, for potential discovery of novel fusion genes. Tumor-defining molecular alterations were found in 48/84 tumors (57%). In 27 (32%) cases the tumor diagnosis was refined or revised by the additional molecular work-up, including five cases (6%), in which the updated diagnosis had clinical implications. Sarcoma classification is rapidly evolving due to an increased molecular characterization of these neoplasms, so unsurprisingly 17% of the tumors in this series harbored abnormalities only very recently described as defining novel molecularly defined soft tissue tumor subsets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Albert J H Suurmeijer
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Brendan C Dickson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cristina R Antonescu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yang A, Yang YT, Zhao XM. An augmented Mendelian randomization approach provides causality of brain imaging features on complex traits in a single biobank-scale dataset. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1011112. [PMID: 38150468 PMCID: PMC10775988 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011112] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mendelian randomization (MR) is an effective approach for revealing causal risk factors that underpin complex traits and diseases. While MR has been more widely applied under two-sample settings, it is more promising to be used in one single large cohort given the rise of biobank-scale datasets that simultaneously contain genotype data, brain imaging data, and matched complex traits from the same individual. However, most existing multivariable MR methods have been developed for two-sample setting or a small number of exposures. In this study, we introduce a one-sample multivariable MR method based on partial least squares and Lasso regression (MR-PL). MR-PL is capable of considering the correlation among exposures (e.g., brain imaging features) when the number of exposures is extremely upscaled, while also correcting for winner's curse bias. We performed extensive and systematic simulations, and demonstrated the robustness and reliability of our method. Comprehensive simulations confirmed that MR-PL can generate more precise causal estimates with lower false positive rates than alternative approaches. Finally, we applied MR-PL to the datasets from UK Biobank to reveal the causal effects of 36 white matter tracts on 180 complex traits, and showed putative white matter tracts that are implicated in smoking, blood vascular function-related traits, and eating behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anyi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yucheng T. Yang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xing-Ming Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital and Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- International Human Phenome Institutes (Shanghai), Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Papa B, Nguyen MA, Kumar A, Song L, Dorwal P, Cheah AL. Cellular myofibromas with SRF fusions: clinicopathological and molecular study of 3 cases of a rare entity and a potential mimic of sarcoma. Hum Pathol 2023; 138:41-48. [PMID: 37245628 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2023.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Cellular myofibromas/myopericytomas harboring recurring SRF fusions are recently characterized as rare and diagnostically challenging entities, which can mimic myogenic sarcomas. These tumors belong to the pericytic/perivascular myoid tumor family, which comprises a group of genetically heterogenous and sometimes morphologically overlapping entities. In this series, we describe 3 cases of SRF-rearranged cellular myofibromas/perivascular myoid tumors with a smooth muscle-like phenotype in children. The children ranged from 7 to 16 years of age, and all presented with a painless mass in the extremities, 2 of which were deep-seated. Histologically, the tumors demonstrated a smooth muscle-like morphology and immunophenotype with mild atypia and low-level mitotic activity. Prominent dense collagen deposition and coarse calcification was observed in 2 tumors. RNA sequencing revealed SRF fusions in all cases, with each tumor showing a different 3' partner gene, RELA, NFKBIE, and NCOA3. Of these, NCOA3 has not been reported previously, and this expands the molecular spectrum by identifying a novel fusion partner for SRF. Given that histological features can be worrisome for a myogenic sarcoma, wider awareness of this emerging tumor is valuable to avoid potential misclassification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Papa
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Minh Anh Nguyen
- Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Macquarie Park, NSW 2113, Australia
| | - Amit Kumar
- Diagnostic Genomics, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Liyan Song
- Diagnostic Genomics, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Pranav Dorwal
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Diagnostic Genomics, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
| | - Alison L Cheah
- Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Macquarie Park, NSW 2113, Australia; School of Medicine, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Georgantzoglou N, Linos K. An update on selected cutaneous (myo) fibroblastic mesenchymal tumors. Semin Diagn Pathol 2023; 40:295-305. [PMID: 37150655 PMCID: PMC10602371 DOI: 10.1053/j.semdp.2023.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous (myo)fibroblastic tumors constitute a group of tumors with overlapping clinicopathological features and variable biologic behavior. In the present review we focus on the histomorphology, immunohistochemical profile and molecular background of the following entities: dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), CD34-positive fibroblastic tumor (SCD34FT), myxoinflammatory sarcoma (MIFS), low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma, solitary fibrous tumor and nodular fasciitis. Although some of these entities typically arise in deep-seated locations, they may occasionally present as cutaneous/superficial tumors and might be challenging to recognize. This review covers in depth the latest advances in molecular diagnostics and immunohistochemical markers that have significantly facilitated the correct classification and diagnosis of these neoplasms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Georgantzoglou
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Konstantinos Linos
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fischer GM, Papke DJ. Gene fusions in superficial mesenchymal neoplasms: Emerging entities and useful diagnostic adjuncts. Semin Diagn Pathol 2023:S0740-2570(23)00046-1. [PMID: 37156707 DOI: 10.1053/j.semdp.2023.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasms are diagnostically challenging because of their overlapping morphology, and, often, the limited tissue in skin biopsy specimens. Molecular and cytogenetic techniques have identified characteristic gene fusions in many of these tumor types, findings that have expanded our understanding of disease pathogenesis and motivated development of useful ancillary diagnostic tools. Here, we provide an update of new findings in tumor types that can occur in the skin and superficial subcutis, including dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, benign fibrous histiocytoma, epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma, angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma, glomus tumor, myopericytoma/myofibroma, non-neural granular cell tumor, CIC-rearranged sarcoma, hybrid schwannoma/perineurioma, and clear cell sarcoma. We also discuss recently described and emerging tumor types that can occur in superficial locations and that harbor gene fusions, including nested glomoid neoplasm with GLI1 alterations, clear cell tumor with melanocytic differentiation and ACTIN::MITF translocation, melanocytic tumor with CRTC1::TRIM11 fusion, EWSR1::SMAD3-rearranged fibroblastic tumor, PLAG1-rearranged fibroblastic tumor, and superficial ALK-rearranged myxoid spindle cell neoplasm. When possible, we discuss how fusion events mediate the pathogenesis of these tumor types, and we also discuss the related diagnostic and therapeutic implications of these events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grant M Fischer
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - David J Papke
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
SRF Rearrangements in Soft Tissue Tumors with Muscle Differentiation. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12111678. [DOI: 10.3390/biom12111678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Serum Response Factor (SRF) is a transcription factor that regulates the expression of a wide set of genes involved in cell proliferation, migration, cytoskeletal organization and myogenesis. Accumulating evidence suggests that SRF may play a role in carcinogenesis and tumor progression in various neoplasms, where it is often involved in different fusion events. Here we investigated SRF rearrangements in soft tissue tumors, along with a gene expression profile analysis to gain insight into the oncogenic mechanism driven by SRF fusion. Whole transcriptome analysis of cell lines transiently overexpressing the SRF::E2F1 chimeric transcript uncovered the specific gene expression profile driven by the aberrant gene fusion, including overexpression of SRF-dependent target genes and of signatures related to myogenic commitment, inflammation and immune activation. This result was confirmed by the analysis of two cases of myoepitheliomas harboring SRF::E2F1 fusion with respect to EWSR1-fusion positive tumors. The recognition of the specific gene signature driven by SRF rearrangement in soft tissue tumors could aid the molecular classification of this rare tumor entity and support therapeutic decisions.
Collapse
|
10
|
Li Y, Huang D, Bi R, Yao Q, Ge L, Yu L, Zhou X, Yang W. Uterine tumors with myogenic differentiation harboring
SRF
::
RELA
fusions. Histopathology 2022; 81:477-485. [DOI: 10.1111/his.14724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yimin Li
- Department of Pathology Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College Fudan University Shanghai People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Huang
- Department of Pathology Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College Fudan University Shanghai People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui Bi
- Department of Pathology Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College Fudan University Shanghai People’s Republic of China
| | - Qianlan Yao
- Department of Pathology Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College Fudan University Shanghai People’s Republic of China
| | - Ling Ge
- Department of Pathology Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College Fudan University Shanghai People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pathology, The Third Hospital of Xiamen Xiamen People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Yu
- Department of Pathology Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College Fudan University Shanghai People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhou
- Department of Pathology Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College Fudan University Shanghai People’s Republic of China
| | - Wentao Yang
- Department of Pathology Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College Fudan University Shanghai People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Azam H, Pierro L, Reina M, Gallagher WM, Prencipe M. Emerging role for the Serum Response Factor (SRF) as a potential therapeutic target in cancer. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:155-169. [PMID: 35114091 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2032652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Serum Response Factor (SRF) is a transcription factor involved in three hallmarks of cancer: the promotion of cell proliferation, cell death resistance and invasion and metastasis induction. Many studies have demonstrated a leading role in the development and progression of multiple cancer types, thus highlighting the potential of SRF as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target, especially for cancers with poor prognosis. AREAS COVERED This review examines the role of SRF in several cancers in promoting cellular processes associated with cancer development and progression. SRF co-factors and signalling pathways are discussed as possible targets to inhibit SRF in a tissue and cancer-specific way. Small-molecule inhibitors of SRF, such as the CCGs series of compounds and lestaurtinib, which could be used as cancer therapeutics, are also discussed. EXPERT OPINION Targeting of SRF and its co-factors represents a promising therapeutic approach. Further understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind the action of SRF could provide a pipeline of novel molecular targets and therapeutic combinations for cancer. Basket clinical trials and the use of SRF immunohistochemistry as companion diagnostics will help testing of these new targets in patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haleema Azam
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lisa Pierro
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Martina Reina
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - William M Gallagher
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maria Prencipe
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Davis JL, Rudzinski ER. Pediatric and Infantile Fibroblastic/Myofibroblastic Tumors in the Molecular Era. Surg Pathol Clin 2021; 13:739-762. [PMID: 33183731 DOI: 10.1016/j.path.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric fibroblastic/myofibroblastic tumors are rare but include a wide variety of benign to malignant tumors. Given their uncommon frequency, they may present as a diagnostic dilemma. This article is focused on using clinical and pathologic clues in conjunction with the increasingly relevant and available molecular techniques to classify, predict prognosis, and/or guide treatment in these tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Davis
- Department of Pathology, Oregon Health & Science University, L-471, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
| | - Erin R Rudzinski
- Department of Laboratories, Seattle Children's Hospital, OC.8.720, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dachy G, Fraitag S, Boulouadnine B, Cordi S, Demoulin JB. Novel COL4A1-VEGFD gene fusion in myofibroma. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:4387-4394. [PMID: 33830670 PMCID: PMC8093964 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Myofibroma is a benign pericytic tumour affecting young children. The presence of multicentric myofibromas defines infantile myofibromatosis (IMF), which is a life‐threatening condition when associated with visceral involvement. The disease pathophysiology remains poorly characterized. In this study, we performed deep RNA sequencing on eight myofibroma samples, including two from patients with IMF. We identified five different in‐frame gene fusions in six patients, including three previously described fusion transcripts, SRF‐CITED1, SRF‐ICA1L and MTCH2‐FNBP4, and a fusion of unknown significance, FN1‐TIMP1. We found a novel COL4A1‐VEGFD gene fusion in two cases, one of which also carried a PDGFRB mutation. We observed a robust expression of VEGFD by immunofluorescence on the corresponding tumour sections. Finally, we showed that the COL4A1‐VEGFD chimeric protein was processed to mature VEGFD growth factor by proteases, such as the FURIN proprotein convertase. In conclusion, our results unravel a new recurrent gene fusion that leads to VEGFD production under the control of the COL4A1 gene promoter in myofibroma. This fusion is highly reminiscent of the COL1A1‐PDGFB oncogene associated with dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans. This work has implications for the diagnosis and, possibly, the treatment of a subset of myofibromas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Dachy
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sylvie Fraitag
- Department of Pathology, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Sabine Cordi
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
SRF Fusions Other Than With RELA Expand the Molecular Definition of SRF-fused Perivascular Tumors. Am J Surg Pathol 2021; 44:1725-1735. [PMID: 33021523 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pericytic tumors encompass several entities sharing morphologic and immunohistochemical features. A subset of perivascular myoid tumors associated with the SRF-RELA fusion gene was previously described. Herein, we report a series of 13 tumors belonging to this group, in which we have identified new fusion genes by RNA-sequencing, thus expanding the molecular spectrum of this entity. All patients except 1 were children and infants. The tumors, frequently located in the head (n=8), had a mean size of 38 mm (range 10 to 150 mm) and were mostly (n=9) well-circumscribed. Exploration of the follow-up data (ranging from 3 to 68 mo) confirmed the benign behavior of these tumors. These neoplasms presented a spectrum of morphologies, ranging from perivascular patterns to myoid appearance. Tumor cells presented mitotic figures but without marked atypia. Some of these tumors could mimic sarcoma. The immunohistochemical profiles confirmed a pericytic differentiation with the expression of the smooth muscle actin and the h-caldesmon, as well as the frequent positivity for pan-cytokeratin. The molecular analysis identified the expected SRF-RELA fusion gene, in addition to other genetic alterations, all involving SRF fused to CITED1, CITED2, NFKBIE, or NCOA2. The detection of SRF-NCOA2 fusions in spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma of the infant has previously been described, representing a risk of misdiagnosis, although the cases reported herein did not express MyoD1. Finally, clustering analyses confirmed that this group of SRF-fused perivascular myoid tumors forms a distinct entity, different from other perivascular tumors, spindle cell rhabdomyosarcomas of the infant, and smooth muscle tumors.
Collapse
|
15
|
Nihous H, Macagno N, Baud-Massière J, Haffner A, Jouve JL, Gentet JC, Touzery C, Le Loarer F, Bouvier C. Genetic variant of SRF-rearranged myofibroma with a misleading nuclear expression of STAT6 and STAT6 involvement as 3' fusion partner. Virchows Arch 2020; 478:597-603. [PMID: 32529351 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-020-02859-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric neoplasms with a myofibroblastic differentiation are frequent in children, in particular myofibroma. Recently, a novel deep soft tissue myofibroblastic neoplasm has been described with high cellularity, a smooth muscle phenotype and SRF-RELA fusion. We report the case of a 15-year-old boy who presented with a tumor of the deep soft tissue of the arm, with overlapping histological features with the recently described SRF-RELA group of myofibromas but differing by the presence of calcifications, a novel SRF-STAT6 fusion transcript and nuclear expression of STAT6. No local recurrence nor distant metastasis was detected at the current follow-up of 29 months. The clinical relevance of this novel fusion requires further investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Nihous
- Department of Pathology, INSERM, MMG, APHM, CHU Timone, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Nicolas Macagno
- Department of Pathology, INSERM, MMG, APHM, CHU Timone, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | | | - Aurélie Haffner
- Department of Pathology, INSERM, MMG, APHM, CHU Timone, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Luc Jouve
- Department of Pediatric orthopedic, APHM, La Timone Children's Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Claude Gentet
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, APHM, La Timone Children's Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Camille Touzery
- Department of Radiology, APHM, Hopital Nord, Marseille, France
| | | | - Corinne Bouvier
- Department of Pathology, INSERM, MMG, APHM, CHU Timone, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France. .,Service d'Anatomie & Cytologie Pathologiques, Neuropathologie, CHU Timone, Rue Saint-Pierre, 13005, Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|