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Heaton ES, Hu M, Liu T, Hui H, Tan Y, Ye K, Jin S. Extracellular matrix-derived peptide stimulates the generation of endocrine progenitors and islet organoids from iPSCs. J Tissue Eng 2023; 14:20417314231185858. [PMID: 37435573 PMCID: PMC10331343 DOI: 10.1177/20417314231185858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have enormous potential in producing human tissues endlessly. We previously reported that type V collagen (COL5), a pancreatic extracellular matrix protein, promotes islet development and maturation from iPSCs. In this study, we identified a bioactive peptide domain of COL5, WWASKS, through bioinformatic analysis of decellularized pancreatic ECM (dpECM)-derived collagens. RNA-sequencing suggests that WWASKS induces the formation of pancreatic endocrine progenitors while suppressing the development of other types of organs. The expressions of hypoxic genes were significantly downregulated in the endocrine progenitors formed under peptide stimulation. Furthermore, we unveiled an enhancement of iPSC-derived islets' (i-islets) glucose sensitivity under peptide stimulation. These i-islets secrete insulin in a glucose responsive manner. They were comprised of α, β, δ, and γ cells and were assembled into a tissue architecture similar to that of human islets. Mechanistically, the peptide is able to activate the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, permitting the translocation of β-catenin from the cytoplasm to the nucleus for pancreatic progenitor development. Collectively, for the first time, we demonstrated that an ECM-derived peptide dictates iPSC fate toward the generation of endocrine progenitors and subsequent islet organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma S Heaton
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Ming Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Tianzheng Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Huang Hui
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Yinfei Tan
- Genomics Facility, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kaiming Ye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
- Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Sha Jin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
- Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
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Wang W, Lyu C, Wang F, Wang C, Wu F, Li X, Gan S. Identification of Potential Signatures and Their Functions for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Study Based on the Cancer Genome Atlas. Front Genet 2021; 12:656042. [PMID: 34295352 PMCID: PMC8290159 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.656042] [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: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a malignant disease most commonly diagnosed in adolescents and young adults. This study aimed to explore potential signatures and their functions for ALL. Methods Differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (DElncRNAs) were identified for ALL from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and normal control from Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx). DElncRNA-microRNA (miRNA) and miRNA-DEmRNA pairs were predicted using online databases. Then, a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed. Functional enrichment analysis of DEmRNAs in the ceRNA network was performed. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was then constructed. Hub genes were identified. DElncRNAs in the ceRNA network were validated using Real-time qPCR. Results A total of 2,903 up- and 3,228 downregulated mRNAs and 469 up- and 286 downregulated lncRNAs were identified for ALL. A ceRNA network was constructed for ALL, consisting of 845 lncRNA-miRNA and 395 miRNA-mRNA pairs. These DEmRNAs in the ceRNA network were mainly enriched in ALL-related biological processes and pathways. Ten hub genes were identified, including SMAD3, SMAD7, SMAD5, ZFYVE9, FKBP1A, FZD6, FZD7, LRP6, WNT1, and SFRP1. According to Real-time qPCR, eight lncRNAs including ATP11A-AS1, ITPK1-AS1, ANO1-AS2, CRNDE, MALAT1, CACNA1C-IT3, PWRN1, and WT1-AS were significantly upregulated in ALL bone marrow samples compared to normal samples. Conclusion Our results showed the lncRNA expression profiles and constructed ceRNA network in ALL. Furthermore, eight lncRNAs including ATP11A-AS1, ITPK1-AS1, ANO1-AS2, CRNDE, MALAT1, CACNA1C-IT3, PWRN1, and WT1-AS were identified. These results could provide a novel insight into the study of ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weimin Wang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chunhui Lyu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Congcong Wang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Feifei Wu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xue Li
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Silin Gan
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Alshareef A, Peters AC, Gélébart P, Chen W, Lai R. Gene Methylation and Silencing of WIF1 Is a Frequent Genetic Abnormality in Mantle Cell Lymphoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020893. [PMID: 33477402 PMCID: PMC7830226 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown that the Wnt canonical pathway (WCP) is constitutively active in most cases of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). Here, we aimed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this biochemical deregulation. We hypothesized that gene methylation/silencing of WIF1 (Wnt inhibitory factor-1), a physiologic inhibitor of WCP, contributes to the deregulation of WCP and promotes cell growth in MCL. In support of this hypothesis, we found that the expression of WIF1 was detectable in none of the 4 MCL cell lines, and in only 2 of 5 tumors (40%) examined. Using methylation-specific PCR, we found evidence of gene methylation of WIF1 in 4 of 5 cell lines (80%) and in 24 of 29 (82%) tumors. The addition of the demethylation agent 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine to Mino and JeKo-1, two WIF1-negative cell lines, restored the expression of WIF1 mRNA in these cells. Gene transfection of WIF1 into JeKo-1 and Mino cells significantly reduced cell growth, and this finding correlated with substantial downregulations of various proteins in WCP, such as β-catenin and pGSK-3β. In conclusion, our results support the concept that gene methylation/silencing of WIF1 is a frequent event in MCL, and this abnormality contributes to the aberrant activation of WCP. These results have provided further evidence that aberrant Wnt signaling is pathogenetically important in MCL and it may represent a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulraheem Alshareef
- Medical Laboratories Technology Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah, P.O. Box 41477, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (P.G.); (W.C.)
| | - Anthea C. Peters
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada;
| | - Pascal Gélébart
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (P.G.); (W.C.)
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway
| | - Will Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (P.G.); (W.C.)
| | - Raymond Lai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (P.G.); (W.C.)
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Takam Kamga P, Bazzoni R, Dal Collo G, Cassaro A, Tanasi I, Russignan A, Tecchio C, Krampera M. The Role of Notch and Wnt Signaling in MSC Communication in Normal and Leukemic Bone Marrow Niche. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:599276. [PMID: 33490067 PMCID: PMC7820188 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.599276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch and Wnt signaling are highly conserved intercellular communication pathways involved in developmental processes, such as hematopoiesis. Even though data from literature support a role for these two pathways in both physiological hematopoiesis and leukemia, there are still many controversies concerning the nature of their contribution. Early studies, strengthened by findings from T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), have focused their investigation on the mutations in genes encoding for components of the pathways, with limited results except for B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL); in because in other leukemia the two pathways could be hyper-expressed without genetic abnormalities. As normal and malignant hematopoiesis require close and complex interactions between hematopoietic cells and specialized bone marrow (BM) niche cells, recent studies have focused on the role of Notch and Wnt signaling in the context of normal crosstalk between hematopoietic/leukemia cells and stromal components. Amongst the latter, mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) play a pivotal role as multipotent non-hematopoietic cells capable of giving rise to most of the BM niche stromal cells, including fibroblasts, adipocytes, and osteocytes. Indeed, MSCs express and secrete a broad pattern of bioactive molecules, including Notch and Wnt molecules, that support all the phases of the hematopoiesis, including self-renewal, proliferation and differentiation. Herein, we provide an overview on recent advances on the contribution of MSC-derived Notch and Wnt signaling to hematopoiesis and leukemia development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Takam Kamga
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- EA4340-BCOH, Biomarker in Cancerology and Onco-Haematology, UVSQ, Université Paris Saclay, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Riccardo Bazzoni
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giada Dal Collo
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Adriana Cassaro
- Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology, Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Tanasi
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Anna Russignan
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Tecchio
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mauro Krampera
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Ratti S, Lonetti A, Follo MY, Paganelli F, Martelli AM, Chiarini F, Evangelisti C. B-ALL Complexity: Is Targeted Therapy Still A Valuable Approach for Pediatric Patients? Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123498. [PMID: 33255367 PMCID: PMC7760974 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary B-ALL is the more frequent childhood malignancy. Even though significant improvements in patients’ survival, some pediatric B-ALL have still poor prognosis and novel strategies are needed. Recently, new genetic abnormalities and altered signaling pathways have been described, defining novel B-ALL subtypes.Innovative targeted therapeutic drugs may potentially show a great impact on the treatment of B-ALL subtypes, offering an important chance to block multiple signaling pathways and potentially improving the clinical management of B-ALL younger patients, especially for the new identified subtypes that lack efficient chemotherapeutic protocols. In this review, we shed light on the up-to-date knowledge of the novel childhood B-ALL subtypes and the altered signaling pathways that could become new druggable targets. Abstract B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is a hematologic malignancy that arises from the clonal expansion of transformed B-cell precursors and predominately affects childhood. Even though significant progresses have been made in the treatment of B-ALL, pediatric patients’ outcome has to be furtherly increased and alternative targeted treatment strategies are required for younger patients. Over the last decade, novel approaches have been used to understand the genomic landscape and the complexity of the molecular biology of pediatric B-ALL, mainly next generation sequencing, offering important insights into new B-ALL subtypes, altered pathways, and therapeutic targets that may lead to improved risk stratification and treatments. Here, we will highlight the up-to-date knowledge of the novel B-ALL subtypes in childhood, with particular emphasis on altered signaling pathways. In addition, we will discuss the targeted therapies that showed promising results for the treatment of the different B-ALL subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Ratti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (S.R.); (M.Y.F.); (F.P.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Annalisa Lonetti
- Giorgio Prodi Cancer Research Center, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti, 11, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Matilde Y. Follo
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (S.R.); (M.Y.F.); (F.P.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Francesca Paganelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (S.R.); (M.Y.F.); (F.P.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Alberto M. Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (S.R.); (M.Y.F.); (F.P.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Francesca Chiarini
- CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via Di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.C.); (C.E.); Tel.: +39-051-209-1581 (F.C.); +39-051-209-1581 (C.E.)
| | - Camilla Evangelisti
- CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via Di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.C.); (C.E.); Tel.: +39-051-209-1581 (F.C.); +39-051-209-1581 (C.E.)
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Soares-Lima SC, Pombo-de-Oliveira MS, Carneiro FRG. The multiple ways Wnt signaling contributes to acute leukemia pathogenesis. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 108:1081-1099. [PMID: 32573851 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.2mr0420-707r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
WNT proteins constitute a very conserved family of secreted glycoproteins that act as short-range ligands for signaling with critical roles in hematopoiesis, embryonic development, and tissue homeostasis. These proteins transduce signals via the canonical pathway, which is β-catenin-mediated and better-characterized, or via more diverse noncanonical pathways that are β-catenin independent and comprise the planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway and the WNT/Ca++ pathways. Several proteins regulate Wnt signaling through a variety of sophisticated mechanisms. Disorders within the pathway can contribute to various human diseases, and the dysregulation of Wnt pathways by different molecular mechanisms is implicated in the pathogenesis of many types of cancer, including the hematological malignancies. The types of leukemia differ considerably and can be subdivided into chronic, myeloid or lymphocytic, and acute, myeloid or lymphocytic, leukemia, according to the differentiation stage of the predominant cells, the progenitor lineage, the diagnostic age strata, and the specific molecular drivers behind their development. Here, we review the role of Wnt signaling in normal hematopoiesis and discuss in detail the multiple ways canonical Wnt signaling can be dysregulated in acute leukemia, including alterations in gene expression and protein levels, epigenetic regulation, and mutations. Furthermore, we highlight the different impacts of these alterations, considering the distinct forms of the disease, and the therapeutic potential of targeting Wnt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila C Soares-Lima
- Epigenetics Group, Molecular Carcinogenesis Program, Brazilian National Cancer Institute, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Maria S Pombo-de-Oliveira
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Program Research Center, National Cancer Institute, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Flávia R G Carneiro
- FIOCRUZ, Center of Technological Development in Health (CDTS), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,FIOCRUZ, Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas-Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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The Role Played by Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031098. [PMID: 32046053 PMCID: PMC7037748 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is an aggressive hematologic neoplastic disorder that arises from the clonal expansion of transformed T-cell or B-cell precursors. Thanks to progress in chemotherapy protocols, ALL outcome has significantly improved. However, drug-resistance remains an unresolved issue in the treatment of ALL and toxic effects limit dose escalation of current chemotherapeutics. Therefore, the identification of novel targeted therapies to support conventional chemotherapy is required. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a conserved signaling axis involved in several physiological processes such as development, differentiation, and adult tissue homeostasis. As a result, deregulation of this cascade is closely related to initiation and progression of various types of cancers, including hematological malignancies. In particular, deregulation of this signaling network is involved in the transformation of healthy HSCs in leukemic stem cells (LSCs), as well as cancer cell multi-drug-resistance. This review highlights the recent findings on the role of Wnt/β-catenin in hematopoietic malignancies and provides information on the current status of Wnt/β-catenin inhibitors with respect to their therapeutic potential in the treatment of ALL.
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Pehlivan M, Çalışkan C, Yüce Z, Sercan HO. Secreted Wnt antagonists in leukemia: A road yet to be paved. Leuk Res 2018; 69:24-30. [PMID: 29625321 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2018.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling has been a topic of research for many years for its diverse and fundamental functions in physiological (such as embryogenesis, organogenesis, proliferation, tissue repair and cellular differentiation) and pathological (carcinogenesis, congenital/genetic diseases, and tissue degeneration) processes. Wnt signaling pathway aberrations are associated with both solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Unregulated Wnt signaling observed in malignancies may be due to a wide spectrum of abnormalities, from mutations in the genes of key players to epigenetic modifications of Wnt antagonists. Of these, Wnt antagonists are gaining significant attention for their potential of being targets for treatment and inhibition of Wnt signaling. In this review, we discuss and summarize the significance of Wnt signaling antagonists in the pathogenesis and treatment of hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melek Pehlivan
- Vocational School of Health Services, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Ceyda Çalışkan
- Izmir Institute of Technology, Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Zeynep Yüce
- Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Hakki Ogun Sercan
- Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Izmir, Turkey.
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Zhou M, Zhou K, Cheng L, Chen X, Wang J, Wang XM, Zhang Y, Yu Q, Zhang S, Wang D, Huang L, Huang M, Ma D, Cheng T, Wang CY, Yuan W, Zhou J. MBD2 Ablation Impairs Lymphopoiesis and Impedes Progression and Maintenance of T-ALL. Cancer Res 2018; 78:1632-1642. [PMID: 29330145 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-1434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant DNA methylation patterns in leukemia might be exploited for therapeutic targeting. In this study, we employed a genetically deficient mouse model to explore the role of the methylated DNA binding protein MBD2 in normal and malignant hematopoiesis. MBD2 ablation led to diminished lymphocytes. Functional defects of the lymphoid compartment were also observed after in vivo reconstitution of MBD2-deficient hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). In an established model of Notch1-driven T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), MBD2 ablation impeded malignant progression and maintenance by attenuating the Wnt signaling pathway. In clinical specimens of human T-ALL, Wnt signaling pathway signatures were significantly enhanced and positively correlated with the expression and function of MBD2. Furthermore, a number of typical Wnt signaling inhibitory genes were abnormally hypermethylated in primary human T-ALL. Abnormal activation of Wnt signaling in T-ALL was switched off by MBD2 deletion, partially by reactivating epigenetically silenced Wnt signaling inhibitors. Taken together, our results define essential roles for MBD2 in lymphopoiesis and T-ALL and suggest MBD2 as a candidate therapeutic target in T-ALL.Significance: This study highlights a methylated DNA binding protein as a candidate therapeutic target to improve the treatment of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemias, as a new starting point for developing epigenetic therapy in this and other lymphoid malignancies. Cancer Res; 78(7); 1632-42. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Kuangguo Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ling Cheng
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xing Chen
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jue Wang
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiao-Min Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingchi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Qilin Yu
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Di Wang
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Liang Huang
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mei Huang
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ding Ma
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Cong-Yi Wang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Weiping Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China.
| | - Jianfeng Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China. .,Cancer Biology Research Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Wnt Signaling in Hematological Malignancies. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2018; 153:321-341. [PMID: 29389522 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Leukemia and lymphoma are a wide encompassing term for a diverse set of blood malignancies that affect people of all ages and result in approximately 23,000 deaths in the United States per year (Siegel RL, Miller KD, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2016. CA Cancer J Clin. 2016;66(1):7-30.). Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are tissue-specific stem cells at the apex of the hierarchy that gives rise to all of the terminally differentiated blood cells, through progressively restricted progenitor populations, a process that is known to be Wnt-responsive. In particular, the progenitor populations are subject to uncontrolled expansion during oncogenic processes, namely the common myeloid progenitor and common lymphoid progenitor, as well as the myeloblast and lymphoblast. Unregulated growth of these cell-types leads to mainly three types of blood cancers (i.e., leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma), which frequently exhibit deregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway. Generally, leukemia is caused by the expansion of myeloid progenitors, leading to an overproduction of white blood cells; as such, patients are unable to make sufficient numbers of red blood cells and platelets. Likewise, an overproduction of lymphocytes leads to clogging of the lymph system and impairment of the immune system in lymphomas. Finally, cancer of the plasma cells in the blood is called myeloma, which also leads to immune system failure. Within each of these three types of blood cancers, there are multiple subtypes, usually characterized by their timeline of onset and their cell type of origin. Of these, 85% of leukemias are encompassed by the four most common diseases, that is, acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL); AML accounts for the majority of leukemia-related deaths (Siegel RL, Miller KD, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2016. CA Cancer J Clin. 2016;66(1):7-30.). Through understanding how HSCs are normally developed and maintained, we can understand how the normal functions of these pathways are disrupted during blood cancer progression; the Wnt pathway is important in regulation of both normal and malignant hematopoiesis. In this chapter, we will discuss the role of Wnt signaling in normal and aberrant hematopoiesis. Our understanding the relationship between Wnt and HSCs will provide novel insights into therapeutic targets.
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Suppression of miR-708 inhibits the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by activating DKK3 in adult B-all. Oncotarget 2017; 8:64114-64128. [PMID: 28969056 PMCID: PMC5609988 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inactivation of Dickkopf-3 (DKK3) is closely associated with a poor prognosis in various solid tumor and hematologic malignancies. Promoter hypermethylation is one potential cause of DKK3 inactivation. However, whether other mechanisms lead to DKK3 inactivation and the subsequent effects of these inactivations on cell proliferation and the Wnt signaling pathway in adult B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) remain unclear. In the present study, we found that low DKK3 expression levels were associated with high miR-708 expression and promoter hypermethylation in adult B-ALL. miR-708 was confirmed to directly decrease DKK3 expression in Nalm-6 and BALL-1 cells. Additionally, a miR-708 inhibitor decreased cell proliferation mainly through apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase, and these effects were eliminated by DKK3 siRNA treatment. Moreover, the demethylating agent 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-aza) decreased the methylation state of the DKK3 promoter based on methylation-specific PCR (MSP) and bisulfite genomic sequencing PCR (BSP), although this demethylation effect was not enhanced by the miR-708 inhibitor. The miR-708 inhibitor or 5-aza significantly increased DKK3 expression and decreased p-GSK3β, cyclin D1 and nuclear and cytoplasmic β-catenin protein expression, indicating that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was inhibited. These effects became more pronounced when the miR-708 inhibitor and 5-aza were used simultaneously. These findings provide greater insights into the mechanisms that increase DKK3 expression and suggest that a miR-708 inhibitor and 5-aza might be useful as targeted therapies for adult B-ALL.
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Aberrant Wnt Signaling in Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2016; 8:cancers8090078. [PMID: 27571104 PMCID: PMC5040980 DOI: 10.3390/cancers8090078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway is essential in the development and homeostasis of blood and immune cells, but its exact role is still controversial and is the subject of intense research. The malignant counterpart of normal hematopoietic cells, leukemic (stem) cells, have hijacked the Wnt pathway for their self-renewal and proliferation. Here we review the multiple ways dysregulated Wnt signaling can contribute to leukemogenesis, both cell autonomously as well as by changes in the microenvironment.
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13
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Ruf F, Schreck C, Wagner A, Grziwok S, Pagel C, Romero S, Kieslinger M, Shimono A, Peschel C, Götze KS, Istvanffy R, Oostendorp RAJ. Loss of Sfrp2 in the Niche Amplifies Stress-Induced Cellular Responses, and Impairs the In Vivo Regeneration of the Hematopoietic Stem Cell Pool. Stem Cells 2016; 34:2381-92. [PMID: 27299503 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Sfrp2 is overexpressed in stromal cells which maintain hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) during in vitro culture. We here showed, that coculture of hematopoetic cells with stromal cells with reduced expression of Sfrp2 increases the number lineage-negative Kit(+) Sca-1(+) (LSK) and progenitor cells in vitro. The LSK cells from these cocultures showed activation of canonical Wnt signaling, higher levels of Ki-67, BrdU incorporation, and the number of γH2A.X positive foci. Total repopulating activity of these cultures was, however, diminished, indicating loss of HSC. To extend these in vitro data, we modelled stress in vivo, i.e., by aging, or 5-FU treatment in Sfrp2(-) (/) (-) mice, or replicative stress in regeneration of HSCs in Sfrp2(-) (/) (-) recipients. In all three in vivo stress situations, we noted an increase of LSK cells, characterized by increased levels of β-catenin and cyclin D1. In the transplantation experiments, the increase in LSK cells in primary recipients was subsequently associated with a progressive loss of HSCs in serial transplantations. Similar to the in vitro coculture stress, in vivo genotoxic stress in 5-FU-treated Sfrp2(-) (/) (-) mice increased cell cycle activity of LSK cells with higher levels of BrdU incorporation, increased expression of Ki-67, and canonical Wnt signaling. Importantly, as noted in vitro, increased cycling of LSKs in vivo was accompanied by a defective γH2A.X-dependent DNA damage response and depolarized localization of acetylated H4K16. Our experiments support the view that Sfrp2 expression in the niche is required to maintain the HSC pool by limiting stress-induced DNA damage and attenuating canonical Wnt-mediated HSC activation. Stem Cells 2016;34:2381-2392.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Ruf
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Christina Schreck
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Alina Wagner
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Sandra Grziwok
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Charlotta Pagel
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Sandra Romero
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Kieslinger
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Akihiko Shimono
- RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Christian Peschel
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Katharina S Götze
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rouzanna Istvanffy
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Robert A J Oostendorp
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
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San Jose-Eneriz E, Agirre X, Rodríguez-Otero P, Prosper F. Epigenetic regulation of cell signaling pathways in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Epigenomics 2016; 5:525-38. [PMID: 24059799 DOI: 10.2217/epi.13.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a heterogeneous cancer that is characterized by rapid and uncontrolled proliferation of immature B- or T-lymphoid precursors. Although ALL has been regarded as a genetic disease for many years, the crucial importance of epigenetic alterations in leukemogenesis has become increasingly evident. Epigenetic mechanisms, which include DNA methylation and histone modifications, are critical for gene regulation during many key biological processes. Here, we review the cell signaling pathways that are regulated by DNA methylation or histone modifications in ALL. Recent studies have highlighted the fundamental role of these modifications in ALL development, and suggested that future investigation into the specific genes and pathways that are altered by epigenetic mechanisms can contribute to the development of novel drug-based therapies for ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edurne San Jose-Eneriz
- Oncology Division, Foundation for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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15
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Surana R, Sikka S, Cai W, Shin EM, Warrier SR, Tan HJG, Arfuso F, Fox SA, Dharmarajan AM, Kumar AP. Secreted frizzled related proteins: Implications in cancers. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2013; 1845:53-65. [PMID: 24316024 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2013.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2013] [Revised: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The Wnt (wingless-type) signaling pathway plays an important role in embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and tumor progression becaluse of its effect on cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Secreted frizzled-related proteins (SFRPs) are extracellular inhibitors of Wnt signaling that act by binding directly to Wnt ligands or to Frizzled receptors. In recent years, aberrant expression of SFRPs has been reported to be associated with numerous cancers. As gene expression of SFRP members is often lost through promoter hypermethylation, inhibition of methylation through the use of epigenetic modifying agents could renew the expression of SFRP members and further antagonize deleterious Wnt signaling. Several reports have described epigenetic silencing of these Wnt signaling antagonists in various human cancers, suggesting their possible role as tumor suppressors. SFRP family members thus come across as potential tools in combating Wnt-driven tumorigenesis. However, little is known about SFRP family members and their role in different cancers. This review comprehensively covers all the available information on the role of SFRP molecules in various human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Surana
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sakshi Sikka
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wanpei Cai
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Eun Myoung Shin
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sudha R Warrier
- Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal University, Bangalore, India
| | - Hong Jie Gabriel Tan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Frank Arfuso
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6845 Western Australia, Australia
| | - Simon A Fox
- Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Western Australian Biomedical Research Institute & Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
| | - Arun M Dharmarajan
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6845 Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6845 Western Australia, Australia; Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203-5017, USA.
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16
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Zhao X, Zhang W, Wang L, Zhao WL. Genetic methylation and lymphoid malignancies: biomarkers of tumor progression and targeted therapy. Biomark Res 2013; 1:24. [PMID: 24252620 PMCID: PMC4101819 DOI: 10.1186/2050-7771-1-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphoid malignancies, mainly including lymphocytic leukemia and lymphoma, are a group of heterogeneous diseases. Although the clinical outcome of patients has been significantly improved with current immuno-chemotherapy, definitive biomarkers remain to be investigated, particularly those reflecting the malignant behavior of tumor cells and those helpful for developing optimal targeted therapy. Recently, genome-wide analysis reveals that altered genetic methylations play an important role in tumor progression through regulation of multiple cellular transduction pathways. This review describes the pathogenetic effect of the aberrant genetic methylation in lymphoid malignancies, with special emphasis on potential therapeutic strategies targeting key signaling networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Shanghai Institute of Hematology, Shanghai Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Rui Jin Er Road, Shanghai 200025, China.
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17
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Vecchio L, Seke Etet PF, Kipanyula MJ, Krampera M, Nwabo Kamdje AH. Importance of epigenetic changes in cancer etiology, pathogenesis, clinical profiling, and treatment: what can be learned from hematologic malignancies? Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2013; 1836:90-104. [PMID: 23603458 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2013.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2012] [Revised: 01/25/2013] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic alterations represent a key cancer hallmark, even in hematologic malignancies (HMs) or blood cancers, whose clinical features display a high inter-individual variability. Evidence accumulated in recent years indicates that inactivating DNA hypermethylation preferentially targets the subset of polycomb group (PcG) genes that are regulators of developmental processes. Conversely, activating DNA hypomethylation targets oncogenic signaling pathway genes, but outcomes of both events lead in the overexpression of oncogenic signaling pathways that contribute to the stem-like state of cancer cells. On the basis of recent evidence from population-based, clinical and experimental studies, we hypothesize that factors associated with risk for developing a HM, such as metabolic syndrome and chronic inflammation, trigger epigenetic mechanisms to increase the transcriptional expression of oncogenes and activate oncogenic signaling pathways. Among others, signaling pathways associated with such risk factors include pro-inflammatory nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), and mitogenic, growth, and survival Janus kinase (JAK) intracellular non-receptor tyrosine kinase-triggered pathways, which include signaling pathways such as transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), Ras GTPases/mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)/extracellular signal-related kinases (ERKs), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and β-catenin pathways. Recent findings on epigenetic mechanisms at work in HMs and their importance in the etiology and pathogenesis of these diseases are herein summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the role of epigenetic processes in the determination of biological identity, the consequences for interindividual variability in disease clinical profile, and the potential of epigenetic drugs in HMs are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorella Vecchio
- Laboratory of Cytometry, Institute of Molecular Genetics, CNR, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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18
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Rahmatpanah FB, Carstens S, Hooshmand SI, Welsh EC, Sjahputera O, Taylor KH, Bennett LB, Shi H, Davis JW, Arthur GL, Shanafelt TD, Kay NE, Wooldridge JE, Caldwell CW. Large-scale analysis of DNA methylation in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Epigenomics 2012; 1:39-61. [PMID: 20495622 DOI: 10.2217/epi.09.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a heterogeneous malignancy that clinically ranges from indolent to rapidly progressive. CLL, like other cancers, can be affected by epigenetic alterations. MATERIALS & METHODS A microarray discovery-based study was initiated to determine DNA methylation in CLL cases with a range of CD38 expression (1–92%). RESULTS Many loci were either methylated or unmethylated across all CD38 levels, but differential methylation was also observed for some genes. Genomic sequencing of DLEU7 confirmed extensive cytosine methylation preferentially in patient samples with low CD38 expression, whereas NRP2, SFRP2 and ADAM12 were more commonly methylated in those with high CD38 expression. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that CLL is affected by CpG island methylation in some genes that segregate with CD38 expression levels, while most others show similar methylation patterns across all levels. The CpG island methylation in certain functional gene groups and pathway-associated genes that are known to be deregulated in CLL provides additional insights into the CLL methylome and epigenetic contribution to cellular dysfunction. It will now be useful to investigate the effectiveness of epigenetic therapeutic reversal of these alterations to develop effective treatments for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farahnaz B Rahmatpanah
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri 65212, USA
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19
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Veeck J, Dahl E. Targeting the Wnt pathway in cancer: the emerging role of Dickkopf-3. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2011; 1825:18-28. [PMID: 21982838 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2011.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2011] [Revised: 09/16/2011] [Accepted: 09/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Wnt signaling pathway is a major trait of many human cancers. Due to its vast implications in tumorigenesis and progression, the Wnt pathway has attracted considerable attention at several molecular levels, also with respect to developing novel cancer therapeutics. Indeed, research in Wnt biology has recently provided numerous clues, and evidence is accumulating that the secreted Wnt antagonist Dickkopf-related protein 3 (Dkk-3) and its regulators may constitute interesting therapeutic targets in the most important human cancers. Based on the currently available literature, we here review the knowledge on the biological role of Dkk-3 as an antagonist of the Wnt signaling pathway, the involvement of Dkk-3 in several stages of tumor development, the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms disrupting DKK3 gene function in cancerous cells, and the potential clinical value of Dkk-3 expression/DKK3 promoter methylation as a biomarker and molecular target in cancer diseases. In conclusion, Dkk-3 rapidly emerges as a key player in human cancer with auspicious tumor suppressive capacities, most of all affecting apoptosis and proliferation. Its gene expression is frequently downregulated by promoter methylation in almost any solid and hematological tumor entity. Clinically, evidence is accumulating of Dkk-3 being both a potential tumor biomarker and effective anti-cancer agent. Although further research is needed, re-establishing Dkk-3 expression in cancer cells holds promise as novel targeted molecular tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Veeck
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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20
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microRNA Methylation Profile Has Prognosis Impact in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Patients Undergoing Stem Cell Transplantation. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2011; 17:745-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2010.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2010] [Accepted: 11/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Sugimura R, Li L. Noncanonical Wnt signaling in vertebrate development, stem cells, and diseases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 90:243-56. [PMID: 21181886 DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.20195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling regulates many aspects of vertebrate development and adult stem cells. Deregulation of Wnt signaling causes development defect and cancer. The signaling is categorized in two pathways: canonical and noncanonical. Both pathways are initiated by Wnt ligands and Frizzled receptors. Canonical pathway leads to β-catenin:T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor-mediated gene expression, which regulates proliferation and differentiation of cells. Noncanonical Wnt signaling is mediated by intracellular calcium ion and JNK. This signaling leads to NFAT, a key transcriptional factor regulating gene expression. In addition, β-catenin:T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor-mediated gene expression is downregulated by CaMKII-TAK1-NLK. Cellular polarity and motility are the main outcomes of the signaling. During development, noncanonical Wnt signaling is required for tissue formation. Recent studies have shown that atypical cadherin Flamingo contributes to noncanonical Wnt signaling by directing the migration of cells. Also, noncanonical Wnt signaling is required for maintenance of adult stem cells. In the field of cancer research, noncanonical Wnt signaling has been considered a tumor suppressor; however, recent evidence has shown that the signaling also enhances cancer progression in the later stages of disease. In this review, we describe and discuss components of noncanonical Wnt signaling, diseases caused by deregulation of the signaling, regulation of adult stem cells by the signaling, and implications in cancer biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryohichi Sugimura
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, 1000 E. 50th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
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22
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Ahn JB, Chung WB, Maeda O, Shin SJ, Kim HS, Chung HC, Kim NK, Issa JPJ. DNA methylation predicts recurrence from resected stage III proximal colon cancer. Cancer 2010; 117:1847-54. [PMID: 21509761 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.25737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2010] [Revised: 09/18/2010] [Accepted: 09/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In colorectal cancer (CRC), DNA methylation anomalies define distinct subgroups termed CpG island methylator phenotype 1 (CIMP1), CIMP2, and CIMP-negative. The role of this classification in predicting recurrence and disease-free survival (DFS) in resected stage III CRC was evaluated. METHODS Sporadic cancers from 161 patients were analyzed. Bisulfite pyrosequencing was used to examine the methylation of 2 global DNA methylation markers (LINE-1, Alu) and 9 loci (MINT1, MINT2, MINT31, P16, hMLH1, P14, SFRP1, SFRP2, and WNT5A). Mutations in BRAF and KRAS were assayed. RESULTS Gene hypermethylation clustered in discrete groups of patients, indicating the presence of CIMP. K-means clustering analysis identified 3 discrete subgroups: CIMP1 (n = 22, 13.7%), associated with proximal location and BRAF mutations; CIMP2 (n = 40, 24.8%), associated with KRAS mutations; and CIMP-negative (n = 99, 61.5%), associated with distal location. In proximal CRC, CIMP1 was correlated with a higher recurrence rate (53% for CIMP1, 18% for CIMP2, and 26% for CIMP-negative) and a worse DFS (P = .015). Also in proximal CRC, LINE-1 methylation was lower in patients whose cancer recurred compared with those whose cancer did not recur (P = .049). In multivariate analysis, CIMP1 and low LINE1 methylation were independent prognostic factors for DFS in proximal CRC (P = .008 for classification by K-means clustering analysis; P = .040 for LINE-1 methylation status). CONCLUSIONS DNA methylation is a useful biomarker of recurrence in resected stage III proximal but not distal CRC. However, as the number of CIMP1 cases was small in distal CRC, further study is required to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joong Bae Ahn
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are a rare population of cells that are responsible for life-long generation of blood cells of all lineages. In order to maintain their numbers, HSCs must establish a balance between the opposing cell fates of self-renewal and initiation of hematopoietic differentiation. Multiple signaling pathways have been implicated in the regulation of HSC cell fate. One such set of pathways are those activated by the Wnt family of ligands. The function of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, which utilizes beta-catenin to regulate gene expression, has been extensively studied in hematopoiesis. However, there is a growing body of evidence that the other Wnt signaling pathways, termed non-canonical, also play an important role. In this review, we will discuss the regulation of hematopoiesis by the Wnt signaling pathways, focusing on the potential functions of non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways.
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Martín V, Valencia A, Agirre X, Cervera J, San Jose-Eneriz E, Vilas-Zornoza A, Rodriguez-Otero P, Sanz MA, Herrera C, Torres A, Prosper F, Román-Gómez J. Epigenetic regulation of the non-canonical Wnt pathway in acute myeloid leukemia. Cancer Sci 2010; 101:425-32. [PMID: 19874313 PMCID: PMC11159284 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2009.01413.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Wnt5a is a member of the Wnt family of proteins that signals through the non-canonical Wnt/Ca(2+)pathway to suppress cyclin D1. Deregulation of this pathway has been found in animal models suggesting that it acts as tumour suppressor in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Although DNA methylation is the main mechanism of regulation of the canonical Wnt pathway in AML, the role of WNT5A abnormalities has never been evaluated in this clinical setting. The methylation status of WNT5A promoter-exon 1 was analyzed by methylation-specific PCR and sequencing in eleven AML-derived cell lines and 252 AML patients. We observed WNT5A hypermethylation in seven cell lines and in 43% (107/252) of AML patients. WNT5A methylation was associated with decreased WNT5A expression (P < 0.001) that was restored after exposure to 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine. Moreover, WNT5A hypermethylation correlated with upregulation of CYCLIN D1 expression (P < 0.001). Relapse (15%vs 37%, P < 0.001) and mortality (61%vs 79%, P = 0.004) rates were lower for patients in the non-methylated group. Disease-free survival and overall survival at 6 and 7 years, respectively, were 60% and 27% for unmethylated patients and 20% and 0% for hypermethylated patients (P = 0.0001 and P = 0.04, respectively). Interestingly, significant differences were also observed when the analysis was carried out according to cytogenetic risk groups. We demonstrate that WNT5A, a putative tumor suppressor gene in AML, is silenced by methylation in this disease and that this epigenetic event is associated with upregulation of CYCLIN D1 expression and confers poor prognosis in patients with AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Martín
- Hematology Department, Cellular Therapy Area, Reina Sofia Hospital, Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research, Cordoba, Spain
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WNT5A is regulated by PAX2 and may be involved in blastemal predominant Wilms tumorigenesis. Neoplasia 2009; 10:1470-80. [PMID: 19048125 DOI: 10.1593/neo.08442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2008] [Revised: 09/29/2008] [Accepted: 10/06/2008] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The PAX2 gene encodes a transcription factor expressed during development. In humans, PAX2 mutations cause the renal-coloboma syndrome, whereas homozygous mutations are lethal, causing severe organ malformation, notably in the brain and kidney. Wilms tumor (WT) of the kidney results from a failure in the mesenchymal-epithelial transition, a crucial step partly controlled by PAX2. Downstream target genes regulated by PAX2 are still undefined. We therefore hypothesized that identification and characterization of the genes regulated by PAX2 may improve our understanding of developmentally related malignancies including WT. We used nickel agarose chromatin enrichment, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and the human embryonic kidney-derived cell line HEK293 to identify regulatory elements responding to PAX2. Among others, we identified WNT5A as a gene potentially regulated by PAX2. Here, we demonstrate that WNT5A is a direct target of PAX2 in HEK293 cells, using both transactivation and electrophoretic mobility shift assays. We were unable to find any WNT5A disease-associated mutations after screening a panel of 99 WT samples. However, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in human favorable-histology WT revealed that approximately 66% of the cases expressed significantly less WNT5A than human fetal kidney. Moreover, the WiT9 WT cell line revealed a weak expression of the WNT5A gene. A correlation of decreased WNT5A expression with predominant blastemal histology tumors suggests a possible inhibitory role in WT pathogenesis. This study underlines the importance of PAX2 in the regulation of WNT5A. Further in vivo study is necessary to determine whether the PAX2 and WNT5A are truly involved in WT pathogenesis.
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