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Costa MDN, Silva TA, Guimarães DSPSF, Ricci-Azevedo R, Teixeira FR, Silveira LR, Gomes MD, Faça VM, de Oliveira EB, Calado RT, Silva RN. The recombinant L-lysine α-oxidase from the fungus Trichoderma harzianum promotes apoptosis and necrosis of leukemia CD34 + hematopoietic cells. Microb Cell Fact 2024; 23:51. [PMID: 38355518 PMCID: PMC10865671 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-024-02315-2] [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: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In hematologic cancers, including leukemia, cells depend on amino acids for rapid growth. Anti-metabolites that prevent their synthesis or promote their degradation are considered potential cancer treatment agents. Amino acid deprivation triggers proliferation inhibition, autophagy, and programmed cell death. L-lysine, an essential amino acid, is required for tumor growth and has been investigated for its potential as a target for cancer treatment. L-lysine α-oxidase, a flavoenzyme that degrades L-lysine, has been studied for its ability to induce apoptosis and prevent cancer cell proliferation. In this study, we describe the use of L-lysine α-oxidase (LO) from the filamentous fungus Trichoderma harzianum for cancer treatment. RESULTS The study identified and characterized a novel LO from T. harzianum and demonstrated that the recombinant protein (rLO) has potent and selective cytotoxic effects on leukemic cells by triggering the apoptotic cascade through mitochondrial dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS The results support future translational studies using the recombinant LO as a potential drug for the treatment of leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana do Nascimento Costa
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago Aparecido Silva
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Araraquara, Sao Paulo State University, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Rafael Ricci-Azevedo
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Roberti Teixeira
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Center of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Reis Silveira
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Damário Gomes
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Vítor Marcel Faça
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Brandt de Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo T Calado
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Roberto N Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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2
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Xiao Y, Hu B, Guo Y, Zhang D, Zhao Y, Chen Y, Li N, Yu L. Targeting Glutamine Metabolism as an Attractive Therapeutic Strategy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2023:10.1007/s11864-023-01104-0. [PMID: 37249801 PMCID: PMC10356674 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-023-01104-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Relapse after chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation leads to adverse prognosis for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. As a "conditionally essential amino acid," glutamine contributes to the growth and proliferation of AML cells. Glutamine-target strategies as new treatment approaches have been widely explored in AML treatment to improve outcome. Glutamine-target strategies including depletion of systemic glutamine and application of glutamine uptake inhibitors, glutamine antagonists/analogues, and glutaminase inhibitors. Because glutamine metabolism involved in multiple pathways in cells and each pathway of glutamine metabolism has many regulatory factors, therefore, AML therapy targeting glutamine metabolism should focus on how to inhibit multiple metabolic pathways without affecting normal cells and host immune to achieve effective treatment for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xiao
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bingbing Hu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yao Guo
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dengyang Zhang
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuming Zhao
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yun Chen
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Na Li
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Nephrology, Center of Kidney and Urology, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liuting Yu
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China.
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3
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Roussel X, Garnache Ottou F, Renosi F. Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells, a Novel Target in Myeloid Neoplasms. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143545. [PMID: 35884612 PMCID: PMC9317563 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are the main type I interferon producing cells in humans and are able to modulate innate and adaptive immune responses. Tumor infiltration by plasmacytoid dendritic cells is already well described and is associated with poor outcomes in cancers due to the tolerogenic activity of pDC. In hematological diseases, Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Neoplasm (BPDCN), aggressive leukemia derived from pDCs, is well described, but little is known about tumor infiltration by mature pDC described in Myeloid Neoplasms (MN). Recently, mature pDC proliferation (MPDCP) has been described as a differential diagnosis of BPDCN associated with acute myeloid leukemia (pDC-AML), myelodysplastic syndrome (pDC-MDS) and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (pDC-CMML). Tumor cells are myeloid blasts and/or mature myeloid cells from related myeloid disorders and pDC derived from a clonal proliferation. The poor prognosis associated with MPDCP requires a better understanding of pDC biology, MN oncogenesis and immune response. This review provides a comprehensive overview about the biological aspects of pDCs, the description of pDC proliferation in MN, and an insight into putative therapies in pDC-AML regarding personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Roussel
- INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098 RIGHT, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25000 Besancon, France;
- Department of Clinical Hematology, University Hospital of Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France
- Correspondence: (X.R.); (F.R.)
| | - Francine Garnache Ottou
- INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098 RIGHT, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25000 Besancon, France;
- Etablissement Français du Sang Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Laboratoire d’Hématologie et d’Immunologie Régional, 25020 Besançon, France
| | - Florian Renosi
- INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098 RIGHT, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25000 Besancon, France;
- Etablissement Français du Sang Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Laboratoire d’Hématologie et d’Immunologie Régional, 25020 Besançon, France
- Correspondence: (X.R.); (F.R.)
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4
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Mesbahi Y, Trahair TN, Lock RB, Connerty P. Exploring the Metabolic Landscape of AML: From Haematopoietic Stem Cells to Myeloblasts and Leukaemic Stem Cells. Front Oncol 2022; 12:807266. [PMID: 35223487 PMCID: PMC8867093 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.807266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite intensive chemotherapy regimens, up to 60% of adults with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) will relapse and eventually succumb to their disease. Recent studies suggest that leukaemic stem cells (LSCs) drive AML relapse by residing in the bone marrow niche and adapting their metabolic profile. Metabolic adaptation and LSC plasticity are novel hallmarks of leukemogenesis that provide important biological processes required for tumour initiation, progression and therapeutic responses. These findings highlight the importance of targeting metabolic pathways in leukaemia biology which might serve as the Achilles' heel for the treatment of AML relapse. In this review, we highlight the metabolic differences between normal haematopoietic cells, bulk AML cells and LSCs. Specifically, we focus on four major metabolic pathways dysregulated in AML; (i) glycolysis; (ii) mitochondrial metabolism; (iii) amino acid metabolism; and (iv) lipid metabolism. We then outline established and emerging drug interventions that exploit metabolic dependencies of leukaemic cells in the treatment of AML. The metabolic signature of AML cells alters during different biological conditions such as chemotherapy and quiescence. Therefore, targeting the metabolic vulnerabilities of these cells might selectively eradicate them and improve the overall survival of patients with AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashar Mesbahi
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,University of New South Wales Centre for Childhood Cancer Research, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Toby N Trahair
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard B Lock
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,University of New South Wales Centre for Childhood Cancer Research, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Patrick Connerty
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,University of New South Wales Centre for Childhood Cancer Research, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
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5
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Van Trimpont M, Peeters E, De Visser Y, Schalk AM, Mondelaers V, De Moerloose B, Lavie A, Lammens T, Goossens S, Van Vlierberghe P. Novel Insights on the Use of L-Asparaginase as an Efficient and Safe Anti-Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040902. [PMID: 35205650 PMCID: PMC8870365 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) therapy is key for achieving the very high cure rate of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), yet its use is mostly confined to this indication. One main reason preventing the expansion of today’s FDA-approved L-ASNases to solid cancers is their high toxicity and side effects, which become especially challenging in adult patients. The design of optimized L-ASNase molecules provides opportunities to overcome these unwanted toxicities. An additional challenge to broader application of L-ASNases is how cells can counter the pharmacological effect of this drug and the identification of L-ASNases resistance mechanisms. In this review, we discuss recent insights into L-ASNase adverse effects, resistance mechanisms, and how novel L-ASNase variants and drug combinations can expand its clinical applicability, with a focus on both hematological and solid tumors. Abstract L-Asparaginase (L-ASNase) is an enzyme that hydrolyses the amino acid asparagine into aspartic acid and ammonia. Systemic administration of bacterial L-ASNase is successfully used to lower the bioavailability of this non-essential amino acid and to eradicate rapidly proliferating cancer cells with a high demand for exogenous asparagine. Currently, it is a cornerstone drug in the treatment of the most common pediatric cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Since these lymphoblasts lack the expression of asparagine synthetase (ASNS), these cells depend on the uptake of extracellular asparagine for survival. Interestingly, recent reports have illustrated that L-ASNase may also have clinical potential for the treatment of other aggressive subtypes of hematological or solid cancers. However, immunogenic and other severe adverse side effects limit optimal clinical use and often lead to treatment discontinuation. The design of optimized and novel L-ASNase formulations provides opportunities to overcome these limitations. In addition, identification of multiple L-ASNase resistance mechanisms, including ASNS promoter reactivation and desensitization, has fueled research into promising novel drug combinations to overcome chemoresistance. In this review, we discuss recent insights into L-ASNase adverse effects, resistance both in hematological and solid tumors, and how novel L-ASNase variants and drug combinations can expand its clinical applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike Van Trimpont
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Evelien Peeters
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yanti De Visser
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Amanda M. Schalk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60607, USA; (A.M.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Veerle Mondelaers
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Barbara De Moerloose
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Arnon Lavie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60607, USA; (A.M.S.); (A.L.)
- The Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Tim Lammens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Goossens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Van Vlierberghe
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Correspondence:
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Getz KD, Alonzo TA, Sung L, Meshinchi S, Gerbing RB, Raimondi S, Hirsch B, Loken M, Brodersen LE, Kahwash S, Choi J, Kolb EA, Gamis A, Aplenc R. Cytarabine dose reduction in patients with low-risk acute myeloid leukemia: A report from the Children's Oncology Group. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29313. [PMID: 34472213 PMCID: PMC8919970 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The optimal number of chemotherapy courses for low-risk (LR) pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is not known. OBJECTIVE To compare outcomes for four (21.6 g/m2 cytarabine) versus five (45.6 g/m2 cytarabine) chemotherapy courses for LR-AML using data from Children's Oncology Group (COG) AAML0531 and AAML1031. METHODS We compared relapse risk (RR), disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS), and the differential impact in LR subgroups for patients receiving four versus five chemotherapy courses. Cox (OS and DFS) and risk (RR) regressions were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) to compare outcomes. RESULTS A total of 923 LR-AML patients were included; 21% received five courses. Overall, LR-AML patients who received four courses had higher RR (40.9% vs. 31.4%; HR = 1.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06-1.85), and worse DFS (56.0% vs. 67.0%; HR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.10-1.91). There was a similar decrement in OS though it was not statistically significant (77.0% vs. 83.5%; HR = 1.45, 95% CI: 0.97-2.17). Stratified analyses revealed the detrimental effects of cytarabine dose de-escalation to be most pronounced in the LR-AML subgroup with uninformative cytogenetic/molecular features who were minimal residual disease (MRD) negative after the first induction course (EOI1). The absolute decrease in DFS with four courses for patients with favorable cytogenetic/molecular features and positive MRD was similar to that observed for patients with uninformative cytogenetic/molecular features and negative MRD at EOI1, though not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Our results support de-escalation of cytarabine exposure through the elimination of a fifth chemotherapy course only for LR-AML patients who have both favorable cytogenetic/molecular features and negative MRD after the first induction cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly D. Getz
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Division of Oncology, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA,Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Todd A. Alonzo
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lillian Sung
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Soheil Meshinchi
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Susana Raimondi
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Betsy Hirsch
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | | | | | - John Choi
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - E. Anders Kolb
- Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
| | - Alan Gamis
- Children’s Mercy Hospital and Clinics, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Richard Aplenc
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Division of Oncology, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA,Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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7
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Michelozzi IM, Kirtsios E, Giustacchini A. Driving CAR T Stem Cell Targeting in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: The Roads to Success. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2816. [PMID: 34198742 PMCID: PMC8201025 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Current treatment outcome for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients is unsatisfactory and characterized by high rates of relapse and poor overall survival. Increasing evidence points to a crucial role of leukemic stem cells (LSC) and the bone marrow (BM) leukemic niche, in which they reside, in AML evolution and chemoresistance. Thus, future strategies aiming at improving AML therapeutic protocols are likely to be directed against LSC and their niche. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells have been extremely successful in the treatment of relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia and B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma and comparable results in AML are highly desirable. At present, we are at the dawn of CAR T-cell application in AML, with several preclinical studies and few early phase clinical trials. However, the lack of leukemia-specific targets and the genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity of the disease combined with the leukemia-induced remodeling of the BM microenvironment are limiting CAR T-cell exploitation in AML. Here, we reviewed AML-LSC and AML-BM niche features in the context of their therapeutic targeting using CAR T-cells. We summarized recent progress in CAR T-cell application to the treatment of AML, and we discussed the remaining therapeutic challenges and promising novel strategies to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria M. Michelozzi
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, London WC1N 1DZ, UK;
| | | | - Alice Giustacchini
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, London WC1N 1DZ, UK;
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8
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Fultang L, Gneo L, De Santo C, Mussai FJ. Targeting Amino Acid Metabolic Vulnerabilities in Myeloid Malignancies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:674720. [PMID: 34094976 PMCID: PMC8174708 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.674720] [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: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells require a higher supply of nutrients for growth and proliferation than normal cells. It is well established that metabolic reprograming in cancers for increased nutrient supply exposes a host of targetable vulnerabilities. In this article we review the documented changes in expression patterns of amino acid metabolic enzymes and transporters in myeloid malignancies and the growing list of small molecules and therapeutic strategies used to disrupt amino acid metabolic circuits within the cell. Pharmacological inhibition of amino acid metabolism is effective in inducing cell death in leukemic stem cells and primary blasts, as well as in reducing tumor burden in in vivo murine models of human disease. Thus targeting amino acid metabolism provides a host of potential translational opportunities for exploitation to improve the outcomes for patients with myeloid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livingstone Fultang
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Luciana Gneo
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Carmela De Santo
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Francis J Mussai
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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9
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Prognostic significance of esterase gene expression in multiple myeloma. Br J Cancer 2021; 124:1428-1436. [PMID: 33531688 PMCID: PMC8039029 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-01237-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esterase enzymes differ in substrate specificity and biological function and may display dysregulated expression in cancer. This study evaluated the biological significance of esterase expression in multiple myeloma (MM). METHODS For gene expression profiling and evaluation of genomic variants in the Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM) cohort, bone marrow aspirates were obtained from patients with newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) or relapsed/refractory MM (RRMM). CD138+ plasma cells were enriched and used for RNA sequencing and analysis, and to evaluate genomic variation. The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) Relating Clinical Outcomes in MM to Personal Assessment of Genetic Profile (CoMMpass) dataset was used for validation of the findings from FIMM. RESULTS MM patients (NDMM, n = 56; RRMM, n = 78) provided 171 bone marrow aspirates (NDMM, n = 56; RRMM, n = 115). Specific esterases exhibited relatively high or low expression in MM, and expression of specific esterases (UCHL5, SIAE, ESD, PAFAH1B3, PNPLA4 and PON1) was significantly altered on progression from NDMM to RRMM. High expression of OVCA2, PAFAH1B3, SIAE and USP4, and low expression of PCED1B, were identified as poor prognostic markers (P < 0.05). The MMRF CoMMpass dataset provided validation that higher expression of PAFAH1B3 and SIAE, and lower expression of PCED1B, were associated with poor prognosis. CONCLUSIONS Esterase gene expression levels change as patients progress from NDMM to RRMM. High expression of OVCA2, PAFAH1B3, USP4 and SIAE, and low expression of PCED1B, are poor prognostic markers in MM, suggesting a role for these esterases in myeloma biology.
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10
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Anselmi L, Bertuccio SN, Lonetti A, Prete A, Masetti R, Pession A. Insights on the Interplay between Cells Metabolism and Signaling: A Therapeutic Perspective in Pediatric Acute Leukemias. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176251. [PMID: 32872391 PMCID: PMC7503381 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, thanks to extensive studies and progress in precision medicine, pediatric leukemia has reached an extremely high overall survival rate. Nonetheless, a fraction of relapses and refractory cases is still present, which are frequently correlated with poor prognosis. Although several molecular features of these diseases are known, still the field of energy metabolism, which is widely studied in adult, has not been frequently explored in childhood leukemias. Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer and is deeply connected with other genetic and signaling aberrations generally known to be key features of both acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This review aims to clear the current knowledge on metabolic rewiring in pediatric ALL and AML, also highlighting the influence of the main signaling pathways and suggesting potential ideas to further exploit this field to discover new prognostic biomarkers and, above all, beneficial therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Anselmi
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit, S.Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Nicola Bertuccio
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences DIMEC, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.P.); (R.M.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Annalisa Lonetti
- Giorgio Prodi Interdepartmental Cancer Research Centre, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Arcangelo Prete
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences DIMEC, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.P.); (R.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Riccardo Masetti
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences DIMEC, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.P.); (R.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Andrea Pession
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences DIMEC, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.P.); (R.M.); (A.P.)
- Giorgio Prodi Interdepartmental Cancer Research Centre, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
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11
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Stuani L, Sabatier M, Sarry JE. Exploiting metabolic vulnerabilities for personalized therapy in acute myeloid leukemia. BMC Biol 2019; 17:57. [PMID: 31319822 PMCID: PMC6637566 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-019-0670-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in cell metabolism and metabolic adaptation are hallmark features of many cancers, including leukemia, that support biological processes involved into tumor initiation, growth, and response to therapeutics. The discovery of mutations in key metabolic enzymes has highlighted the importance of metabolism in cancer biology and how these changes might constitute an Achilles heel for cancer treatment. In this Review, we discuss the role of metabolic and mitochondrial pathways dysregulated in acute myeloid leukemia, and the potential of therapeutic intervention targeting these metabolic dependencies on the proliferation, differentiation, stem cell function and cell survival to improve patient stratification and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucille Stuani
- Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, UMR1037, Inserm, Université de Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier, Equipe Labellisée LIGUE 2018, F-31037, Toulouse, France.
| | - Marie Sabatier
- Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, UMR1037, Inserm, Université de Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier, Equipe Labellisée LIGUE 2018, F-31037, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Emmanuel Sarry
- Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, UMR1037, Inserm, Université de Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier, Equipe Labellisée LIGUE 2018, F-31037, Toulouse, France.
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12
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Affiliation(s)
- Gertjan J L Kaspers
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Cartledge Wolf DM, Langhans SA. Moving Myeloid Leukemia Drug Discovery Into the Third Dimension. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:314. [PMID: 31417884 PMCID: PMC6682595 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of therapies aimed at leukemia has progressed substantially in the past years but childhood acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains one of the most challenging cancers to treat. Genomic profiling of AML has greatly enhanced our understanding of the genetic and epigenetic landscape of this high-risk leukemia. With it comes the opportunity to develop targeted therapies that are expected to be more effective and less toxic than current treatment regimens. Nevertheless, often overlooked in leukemia drug discovery are the dynamic interactions between leukemic cells and the bone marrow environment. The interplay between leukemic cells, stromal cells and the extracellular matrix plays critical roles in the development, progression and relapse of AML as well as in drug response and the development of resistance. Here we will review pediatric leukemia with a special focus on acute myeloid disease in children, and discuss the tumor microenvironment in the context of drug resistance and leukemia stem cell survival. We will emphasize how three-dimensional (3D) cell-based drug discovery may offer hope for both the identification and advancement of more effective treatment options for patients suffering from this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna M Cartledge Wolf
- Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, United States
| | - Sigrid A Langhans
- Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, United States
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