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Drug-tolerant persister B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.28.530540. [PMID: 36909619 PMCID: PMC10002708 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.28.530540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Reduced responsiveness of precursor B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL) to chemotherapy can be inferred when leukemia cells persist after 28 days of initial treatment. Survival of these long-term persister (LTP) / minimal residual disease (MRD) cells is partly due to bone marrow stromal cells that protect them under conditions of chemotherapy stress. We used RNA-seq to analyse BCP-ALL cells that survived a long-term, 30-day vincristine chemotherapy treatment while in co-culture with bone marrow stromal cells. RNAs of as many as 10% of the protein-encoding genes were differentially expressed. There was substantial overlap with genes associated with MRD cell persistence reported in other studies. The top pathway regulated in the LTP cells was that involving p53, a master regulator of a spectrum of responses relevant to drug resistance and cytotoxic drug exposure including control of autophagy. We tested a select number of genes for contribution to BCP-ALL cell survival using Cas9/CRISPR in a 2-step selection, initially for overall effect on cell fitness, followed by 21 days of exposure to vincristine. Many genes involved in autophagy and lysosomal function were found to contribute to survival both at steady-state and during drug treatment. We also identified MYH9, NCSTN and KIAA2013 as specific genes contributing to fitness of BCP-ALL cells. CD44 was not essential for growth under steady state conditions but was needed for survival of vincristine treatment. Finally, although the drug transporter ABCC1/MRP1 is not overexpressed in BCP-ALL, a functional gene was needed for DTP cells to survive treatment with vincristine. This suggests that addition of possible ABCC1 inhibitors during induction therapy could provide benefit in eradication of minimal residual disease in patients treated with a chemotherapy regimen that includes vincristine.
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PROM1 and CTGF Expression in Childhood MLL-Rearrangement Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:5896022. [PMID: 36276286 PMCID: PMC9586771 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5896022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The prognosis of over 90% of infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) remains poor because of harboring the mixed-lineage leukemia gene (MLL) fusion. To give insight into the critical coexpressed genes related to the MLL-rearrangement (MLL-R) gene in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia, we integrated different bioinformatic methods. First, the gene expression data of MLL-R ALL and normal samples from GSE13159 and GSE13164 were analyzed using “compare” function in the Oncomine database. The top 150 overexpressed and 150 underexpressed genes were identified by the Oncomine website. Then, we employed the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) to define functional genes for the 300 DEGs. The Cytoscape identified two important networks for overexpressed genes, including 35 functional genes, among which PROM1, FLT3, CTGF, LGALS1, IGFBP7, ZNRF1, and RUNX2 were considered as the key genes because of their high expression in MLL-R ALL compared to the expression in other subclassification of leukemia in the MILE dataset. Further analysis of GSE68720, GSE19475, and Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments (TARGET) ALL (phase I) database confirmed the robust expression of 7 key genes in MLL-R compared to MLL-germline (MLL-G) childhood ALL. Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that childhood ALL patients with high PROM1 and CTGF expression had significantly poor overall survival. These findings suggest that PROM1 and CTGF represent two potential therapeutic targets for childhood MLL-R ALL.
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Hughes AM, Kuek V, Kotecha RS, Cheung LC. The Bone Marrow Microenvironment in B-Cell Development and Malignancy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2089. [PMID: 35565219 PMCID: PMC9102980 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
B lymphopoiesis is characterized by progressive loss of multipotent potential in hematopoietic stem cells, followed by commitment to differentiate into B cells, which mediate the humoral response of the adaptive immune system. This process is tightly regulated by spatially distinct bone marrow niches where cells, including mesenchymal stem and progenitor cells, endothelial cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and adipocytes, interact with B-cell progenitors to direct their proliferation and differentiation. Recently, the B-cell niche has been implicated in initiating and facilitating B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Leukemic cells are also capable of remodeling the B-cell niche to promote their growth and survival and evade treatment. Here, we discuss the major cellular components of bone marrow niches for B lymphopoiesis and the role of the malignant B-cell niche in disease development, treatment resistance and relapse. Further understanding of the crosstalk between leukemic cells and bone marrow niche cells will enable development of additional therapeutic strategies that target the niches in order to hinder leukemia progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia M. Hughes
- Leukaemia Translational Research Laboratory, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; (A.M.H.); (V.K.); (R.S.K.)
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Vincent Kuek
- Leukaemia Translational Research Laboratory, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; (A.M.H.); (V.K.); (R.S.K.)
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Rishi S. Kotecha
- Leukaemia Translational Research Laboratory, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; (A.M.H.); (V.K.); (R.S.K.)
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Oncology, Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Perth Children’s Hospital, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Laurence C. Cheung
- Leukaemia Translational Research Laboratory, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; (A.M.H.); (V.K.); (R.S.K.)
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
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Yoshida K, Fujita A, Narazaki H, Asano T, Itoh Y. Drug resistance to nelarabine in leukemia cell lines might be caused by reduced expression of deoxycytidine kinase through epigenetic mechanisms. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2021; 89:83-91. [PMID: 34825941 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-021-04373-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Drug resistance is a serious problem in leukemia therapy. A novel purine nucleoside analogue, nelarabine, is available for the treatment of children with T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We investigated the mechanisms of drug resistance to nelarabine. METHODS Nelarabine-resistant cells were selected by stepwise and continuous exposure to nelarabine using the limiting dilution method in human B and T cell lymphoblastic leukemia cell lines. Expression analysis was performed using real-time polymerase chain reaction, and epigenetic analysis was performed using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction and chromatin immunoprecipitation. RESULTS The RNA expression level for deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) was decreased in nelarabine-resistant leukemia cells. There were no differences between the parental and nelarabine-resistant leukemia cells in the methylation status of the promoter region of the dCK gene. In the chromatin immune precipitation assay, decreased acetylation of histones H3 and H4 bound to the dCK promoter was seen in the nelarabine-resistant cells when compared to the parental cells. Furthermore, treatment with a novel histone deacetylase inhibitor, vorinostat, promoted the cytotoxic effect of nelarabine along with increased expression of the dCK gene, and it increased acetylation of both histones H3 and H4 bound to the dCK promoter in nelarabine-resistant leukemia cells. The combination index showed that the effect of nelarabine and vorinostat was synergistic. CONCLUSION This study reports that nelarabine with vorinostat can promote cytotoxicity in nelarabine-resistant leukemia cells through epigenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keishi Yoshida
- Department of Pediatrics, Nippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, 1715 Kamagari, Inzai, Chiba, 270-1694, Japan
| | - Atsushi Fujita
- Department of Pediatrics, Nippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, 1715 Kamagari, Inzai, Chiba, 270-1694, Japan
| | - Hidehiko Narazaki
- Department of Pediatrics, Nippon Medical School, Inzai, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takeshi Asano
- Department of Pediatrics, Nippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, 1715 Kamagari, Inzai, Chiba, 270-1694, Japan.
| | - Yasuhiko Itoh
- Department of Pediatrics, Nippon Medical School, Inzai, Chiba, Japan
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Leguit RJ, Raymakers RAP, Hebeda KM, Goldschmeding R. CCN2 (Cellular Communication Network factor 2) in the bone marrow microenvironment, normal and malignant hematopoiesis. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 15:25-56. [PMID: 33428075 PMCID: PMC7798015 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-020-00602-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
CCN2, formerly termed Connective Tissue Growth Factor, is a protein belonging to the Cellular Communication Network (CCN)-family of secreted extracellular matrix-associated proteins. As a matricellular protein it is mainly considered to be active as a modifier of signaling activity of several different signaling pathways and as an orchestrator of their cross-talk. Furthermore, CCN2 and its fragments have been implicated in the regulation of a multitude of biological processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, migration, cell survival, apoptosis and the production of extracellular matrix products, as well as in more complex processes such as embryonic development, angiogenesis, chondrogenesis, osteogenesis, fibrosis, mechanotransduction and inflammation. Its function is complex and context dependent, depending on cell type, state of differentiation and microenvironmental context. CCN2 plays a role in many diseases, especially those associated with fibrosis, but has also been implicated in many different forms of cancer. In the bone marrow (BM), CCN2 is highly expressed in mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs). CCN2 is important for MSC function, supporting its proliferation, migration and differentiation. In addition, stromal CCN2 supports the maintenance and longtime survival of hematopoietic stem cells, and in the presence of interleukin 7, stimulates the differentiation of pro-B lymphocytes into pre-B lymphocytes. Overexpression of CCN2 is seen in the majority of B-acute lymphoblastic leukemias, especially in certain cytogenetic subgroups associated with poor outcome. In acute myeloid leukemia, CCN2 expression is increased in MSCs, which has been associated with leukemic engraftment in vivo. In this review, the complex function of CCN2 in the BM microenvironment and in normal as well as malignant hematopoiesis is discussed. In addition, an overview is given of data on the remaining CCN family members regarding normal and malignant hematopoiesis, having many similarities and some differences in their function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos J Leguit
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, H04-312, P.O. Box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Reinier A P Raymakers
- Department of Hematology, UMCU Cancer Center, Heidelberglaan 100 B02.226, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Konnie M Hebeda
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Goldschmeding
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, P.O. Box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Shimbo A, Kajiyama H, Tamauchi S, Yoshikawa N, Ikeda Y, Nishino K, Suzuki S, Niimi K, Sakata J, Kikkawa F. Expression of connective tissue growth factor as a prognostic indicator and its possible involvement in the aggressive properties of epithelial ovarian carcinoma. Oncol Rep 2019; 42:2323-2332. [PMID: 31578579 PMCID: PMC6826307 DOI: 10.3892/or.2019.7352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was demonstrated to be associated with aggressive characteristics, including proliferation, invasion and metastasis, in a number of malignancies. Here, we investigated the expression and function of CTGF in epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) to clarify its molecular mechanism and clinical significance. Paraffin sections from clinical samples of EOC (N=104) were immunostained with the CTGF antibody, and then the staining positivity was semiquantitatively examined. Moreover, we explored the role of CTGF expression in the migration-promoting effect on and chemoresistance of EOC cells. The results revealed that of the 104 EOC patients, the low and high CTGF staining expression rates were 65 (62.5%) and 39 (37.5%), respectively. Patients belonging to the higher-level CTGF group showed poorer progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates than those in the lower-level group [PFS (log-rank: P=0.0076) and OS (log-rank: P=0.0078), respectively]. Multivariable analysis showed that CTGF expression was a significant predictor of poorer PFS and OS [PFS: HR (high vs. low): 1.837, 95% CI: 1.023–3.289 (P=0.0418); OS: HR: 2.141, 95% CI: 1.077–4.296 (P=0.0300)]. In in vitro studies, in acquired paclitaxel (PTX)-resistant EOC cells, the silencing of CTGF expression led to the restoration of PTX sensitivity. Furthermore, we confirmed that the TGF-β-dependent migration-promoting effect on these CTGF-depleted cells was completely inhibited. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest the possible involvement of CTGF in the migration-promoting effect and chemoresistance of EOC, suggesting that it may be a target for overcoming the malignant properties of EOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Shimbo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Satoshi Tamauchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Nobuhisa Yoshikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Ikeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Kimihiro Nishino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Shiro Suzuki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Kaoru Niimi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Jun Sakata
- Department of Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Nagoya, Aichi 464‑8681, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Kikkawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
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Barwe SP, Quagliano A, Gopalakrishnapillai A. Eviction from the sanctuary: Development of targeted therapy against cell adhesion molecules in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Semin Oncol 2017; 44:101-112. [PMID: 28923207 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a malignant hematological disease afflicting hematopoiesis in the bone marrow. While 80%-90% of patients diagnosed with ALL will achieve complete remission at some point during treatment, ALL is associated with high relapse rate, with a 5-year overall survival rate of 68%. The initial remission failure and the high rate of relapse can be attributed to intrinsic chemoprotective mechanisms that allow persistence of ALL cells despite therapy. These mechanisms are mediated, at least in part, through the engagement of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) within the bone marrow microenvironment. This review assembles CAMs implicated in protection of leukemic cells from chemotherapy. Such studies are limited in ALL. Therefore, CAMs that are associated with poor outcomes or are overexpressed in ALL and have been shown to be involved in chemoprotection in other hematological cancers are also included. It is likely that these molecules play parallel roles in ALL because the CAMs identified to be a factor in ALL chemoresistance also work similarly in other hematological malignancies. We review the signaling mechanisms activated by the engagement of CAMs that provide protection from chemotherapy. Development of targeted therapies against CAMs could improve outcome and raise the overall cure rate in ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali P Barwe
- Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research, A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE.
| | - Anthony Quagliano
- Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research, A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE
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A potential role for CCN2/CTGF in aggressive colorectal cancer. J Cell Commun Signal 2016; 10:223-227. [PMID: 27613407 PMCID: PMC5055504 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-016-0347-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
CCN2, also known as connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a transcriptional target of TGF-β signaling. Unlike its original name (“CTGF”) suggested, CCN2 is not an actual growth factor but a matricellular protein that plays an important role in fibrosis, inflammation and connective tissue remodeling in a variety of diseases, including cancer. In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, CCN2 signaling induces stromal infiltration and facilitates a strong tumor-stromal interaction. In many types of cancer, CCN2 overexpression has been associated with poor outcome. CMS4 (Consensus Molecular Subtype 4) is a recently identified aggressive colorectal cancer subtype, that is characterized by up-regulation of genes involved in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, TGF-β signaling, angiogenesis, complement activation, and extracellular matrix remodeling. In addition, a high influx of stromal fibroblasts contributes to the mesenchymal-like gene expression profile of this subtype. Furthermore, compared with the other three CMS groups, CMS4 tumors have the worst prognosis. Based on these observations, we postulated that CCN2 might contribute to colorectal cancer progression, especially in the CMS4 subtype. This review discusses the available literature on the role of CCN2 in colorectal cancer, with a focus on the ‘fibrotic subtype’ CMS4.
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Small-Molecule Inhibition of Rho/MKL/SRF Transcription in Prostate Cancer Cells: Modulation of Cell Cycle, ER Stress, and Metastasis Gene Networks. MICROARRAYS 2016; 5:microarrays5020013. [PMID: 27600078 PMCID: PMC5003489 DOI: 10.3390/microarrays5020013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis is the major cause of cancer deaths and control of gene transcription has emerged as a critical contributing factor. RhoA- and RhoC-induced gene transcription via the actin-regulated transcriptional co-activator megakaryocytic leukemia (MKL) and serum response factor (SRF) drive metastasis in breast cancer and melanoma. We recently identified a compound, CCG-1423, which blocks Rho/MKL/SRF-mediated transcription and inhibits PC-3 prostate cancer cell invasion. Here, we undertook a genome-wide expression study in PC-3 cells to explore the mechanism and function of this compound. There was significant overlap in the genes modulated by CCG-1423 and Latrunculin B (Lat B), which blocks the Rho/MKL/SRF pathway by preventing actin polymerization. In contrast, the general transcription inhibitor 5,6-dichloro-1-β-d-ribofuranosyl-1H-benzimidazole (DRB) showed a markedly different pattern. Effects of CCG-1423 and Lat B on gene expression correlated with literature studies of MKL knock-down. Gene sets involved in DNA synthesis and repair, G1/S transition, and apoptosis were modulated by CCG-1423. It also upregulated genes involved in endoplasmic reticulum stress. Targets of the known Rho target transcription factor family E2F and genes related to melanoma progression and metastasis were strongly suppressed by CCG-1423. These results confirm the ability of our compound to inhibit expression of numerous Rho/MKL-dependent genes and show effects on stress pathways as well. This suggests a novel approach to targeting aggressive cancers and metastasis.
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10
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High expression of connective tissue growth factor accelerates dissemination of leukaemia. Oncogene 2016; 35:4591-600. [PMID: 26804166 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Revised: 11/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To improve treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), a better understanding of disease development is needed to tailor new therapies. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is highly expressed in leukaemia cells from the majority of paediatric patients with B-lineage ALL (pre-B ALL). CTGF is a matricellular protein and plays a role in aggressive cancers. Here we have genetically engineered leukaemia cells to modulate CTGF expression levels. Elevated CTGF levels accelerated disease dissemination and reduced survival in NOD/SCID mice. In vitro studies showed that CTGF protein induces stromal cell proliferation, promotes adhesion of leukaemia cells to stromal cells and leads to overexpression of genes associated with cell cycle and synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM). Corresponding data from our leukaemia xenograft models demonstrated that CTGF leads to increased proliferation of non-leukaemia cells and deposition of ECM in the bone marrow. We document for the first time a functional role of CTGF in altering disease progression in a lymphoid malignancy. The findings provide support for targeting the bone marrow microenvironment in aggressive forms of leukaemia.
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Wells JE, Howlett M, Cheung LC, Kees UR. The role of CCN family genes in haematological malignancies. J Cell Commun Signal 2015; 9:267-78. [PMID: 26026820 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-015-0296-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Haematological malignancies, although a broad range of specific disease types, continue to show considerable overlap in classification, and patients are treated using similar chemotherapy regimes. In this review we look at the role of the CCN family of matricellular proteins and indicate their role in nine haematological malignancies including both myeloid and lymphoid neoplasms. The potential for further haematological neoplasms with CCN family associations is argued by summarising the demonstrated role of CCN family genes in the differentiation of haematopoietic stem cells (HSC) and mesenchymal stem cells. The expanding field of knowledge encompassing CCN family genes and cancers of the HSC-lineage highlights the importance of extracellular matrix-interactions in both normal physiology and tumorigenesis of the blood, bone marrow and lymph nodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Wells
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, PO Box 855 West Perth, Perth, Western Australia, 6872, Australia
| | - M Howlett
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, PO Box 855 West Perth, Perth, Western Australia, 6872, Australia
| | - L C Cheung
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, PO Box 855 West Perth, Perth, Western Australia, 6872, Australia
| | - Ursula R Kees
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, PO Box 855 West Perth, Perth, Western Australia, 6872, Australia.
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12
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Welch MD, Howlett M, Halse HM, Greene WK, Kees UR. Novel CT domain-encoding splice forms of CTGF/CCN2 are expressed in B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Leuk Res 2015; 39:913-20. [PMID: 26138615 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2015.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Revised: 05/18/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) has been shown previously to be aberrantly expressed in a high proportion of paediatric precursor B cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (pre-B ALL), suggesting a potential oncogenic role in this tumour type. We therefore assessed CTGF mRNA transcript diversity in B-lineage ALL using primary patient specimens and cell lines. METHODS CTGF mRNA expression was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR and Northern blotting. We performed a structural analysis of CTGF mRNA by nested reverse-transcriptase PCR and examined CTGF protein diversity by immunoblotting. RESULTS Northern blot analysis of pre-B ALL cell lines revealed short CTGF transcripts that were expressed in association with the active phase of cellular growth. Structural analysis confirmed the synthesis of several novel CTGF mRNA isoforms in B-lineage ALL cell lines that were uniformly characterised by the retention of the coding sequence for the C-terminal (CT) domain. One of these novel spliceforms was expressed in a majority (70%) of primary pre-B ALL patient specimens positive for canonical CTGF mRNA. Evidence that these alternative transcripts have coding potential was provided by cryptic CTGF proteins of predicted size detected by immunoblotting. CONCLUSION This study identifies for the first time alternative splicing of the CTGF gene and shows that a short CTGF splice variant associated with cell proliferation is expressed in most cases of primary CTGF-positive pre-B ALL. This novel variant encoding only the CT domain may play a role in pre-B ALL tumorigenesis and/or progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Welch
- Division of Children's Leukemia and Cancer Research, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - M Howlett
- Division of Children's Leukemia and Cancer Research, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - H M Halse
- Division of Children's Leukemia and Cancer Research, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - W K Greene
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - U R Kees
- Division of Children's Leukemia and Cancer Research, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
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Wells JE, Howlett M, Cole CH, Kees UR. Deregulated expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is linked to poor outcome in human cancer. Int J Cancer 2014; 137:504-11. [PMID: 24832082 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.28972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 04/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) has long been associated with human cancers. The role it plays in these neoplasms is diverse and tumour specific. Recurring patterns in clinical outcome, histological desmoplasia and mechanisms of action have been found. When CTGF is overexpressed compared to low-expressing normal tissue or is underexpressed compared to high-expressing normal tissue, the functional outcome favours tumour survival and disease progression. CTGF acts by altering proliferation, drug resistance, angiogenesis, adhesion and migration contributing to metastasis. The pattern of CTGF expression and tumour response helps to clarify the role of this matricellular protein across a multitude of human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia E Wells
- Leukaemia and Cancer Division, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Meegan Howlett
- Leukaemia and Cancer Division, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Catherine H Cole
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Ursula R Kees
- Leukaemia and Cancer Division, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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Cheung LC, Strickland DH, Howlett M, Ford J, Charles AK, Lyons KM, Brigstock DR, Goldschmeding R, Cole CH, Alexander WS, Kees UR. Connective tissue growth factor is expressed in bone marrow stromal cells and promotes interleukin-7-dependent B lymphopoiesis. Haematologica 2014; 99:1149-56. [PMID: 24727816 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2013.102327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Hematopoiesis occurs in a complex bone marrow microenvironment in which bone marrow stromal cells provide critical support to the process through direct cell contact and indirectly through the secretion of cytokines and growth factors. We report that connective tissue growth factor (Ctgf, also known as Ccn2) is highly expressed in murine bone marrow stromal cells. In contrast, connective tissue growth factor is barely detectable in unfractionated adult bone marrow cells. While connective tissue growth factor has been implicated in hematopoietic malignancies, and is known to play critical roles in skeletogenesis and regulation of bone marrow stromal cells, its role in hematopoiesis has not been described. Here we demonstrate that the absence of connective tissue growth factor in mice results in impaired hematopoiesis. Using a chimeric fetal liver transplantation model, we show that absence of connective tissue growth factor has an impact on B-cell development, in particular from pro-B to more mature stages, which is linked to a requirement for connective tissue growth factor in bone marrow stromal cells. Using in vitro culture systems, we demonstrate that connective tissue growth factor potentiates B-cell proliferation and promotes pro-B to pre-B differentiation in the presence of interleukin-7. This study provides a better understanding of the functions of connective tissue growth factor within the bone marrow, showing the dual regulatory role of the growth factor in skeletogenesis and in stage-specific B lymphopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence C Cheung
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Deborah H Strickland
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Meegan Howlett
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jette Ford
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Adrian K Charles
- Princess Margaret Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - David R Brigstock
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Roel Goldschmeding
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Catherine H Cole
- Princess Margaret Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Warren S Alexander
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ursula R Kees
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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Lu H, Kojima K, Battula VL, Korchin B, Shi Y, Chen Y, Spong S, Thomas DA, Kantarjian H, Lock RB, Andreeff M, Konopleva M. Targeting connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in acute lymphoblastic leukemia preclinical models: anti-CTGF monoclonal antibody attenuates leukemia growth. Ann Hematol 2013; 93:485-492. [PMID: 24154679 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-013-1939-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is involved in extracellular matrix production, tumor cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, and metastasis. Recent studies have shown that CTGF expression is elevated in precursor B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and that increased expression of CTGF is associated with inferior outcome in B-ALL. In this study, we characterized the functional role and downstream signaling pathways of CTGF in ALL cells. First, we utilized lentiviral shRNA to knockdown CTGF in RS4;11 and REH ALL cells expressing high levels of CTGF mRNA. Silencing of CTGF resulted in significant suppression of leukemia cell growth compared to control vector, which was associated with AKT/mTOR inactivation and increased levels of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27. CTGF knockdown sensitized ALL cells to vincristine and methotrexate. Treatment with an anti-CTGF monoclonal antibody, FG-3019, significantly prolonged survival of mice injected with primary xenograft B-ALL cells when co-treated with conventional chemotherapy (vincristine, L-asparaginase and dexamethasone). Data suggest that CTGF represents a targetable molecular aberration in B-ALL, and blocking CTGF signaling in conjunction with administration of chemotherapy may represent a novel therapeutic approach for ALL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Lu
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Kensuke Kojima
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Venkata Lokesh Battula
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Borys Korchin
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Yuexi Shi
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Ye Chen
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | | | - Deborah A Thomas
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Hagop Kantarjian
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Richard B Lock
- Leukemia Biology, Children's Cancer Institute Australia, Randwick, Australia
| | - Michael Andreeff
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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Welch MD, Greene WK, Kees UR. Hypomethylation of the CTGF gene locus is a common feature of paediatric pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Br J Haematol 2013; 162:537-41. [PMID: 23772794 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.12417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The connective tissue growth factor gene (CTGF) is aberrantly expressed in 75% of precursor B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemias (pre-B ALL) and is associated with poor outcome. We identified consistent hypomethylation of the CTGF locus in primary pre-B ALL specimens regardless of CTGF expression. By contrast, primary T-cell ALL specimens, which do not express CTGF, exhibited distinctive patterns of hypermethylation. Furthermore, we confirmed that global changes in DNA methylation and histone acetylation can both functionally modulate CTGF expression in pre-B ALL cell lines. These data suggest that hypomethylation of the CTGF locus is an essential prerequisite for aberrant CTGF expression in pre-B ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew D Welch
- Division of Children's Leukaemia and Cancer Research, Telethon Institute for Child Health Research and Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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17
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Connective tissue growth factor regulates adipocyte differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells and facilitates leukemia bone marrow engraftment. Blood 2013; 122:357-66. [PMID: 23741006 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2012-06-437988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a major component of the leukemia bone marrow (BM) microenvironment. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is highly expressed in MSCs, but its role in the BM stroma is unknown. Therefore, we knocked down (KD) CTGF expression in human BM-derived MSCs by CTGF short hairpin RNA. CTGF KD MSCs exhibited fivefold lower proliferation compared with control MSCs and had markedly fewer S-phase cells. CTGF KD MSCs differentiated into adipocytes at a sixfold higher rate than controls in vitro and in vivo. To study the effect of CTGF on engraftment of leukemia cells into BM, an in vivo model of humanized extramedullary BM (EXM-BM) was developed in NOD/SCID/IL-2rg(null) mice. Transplanted Nalm-6 or Molm-13 human leukemia cells engrafted at a threefold higher rate in adipocyte-rich CTGF KD MSC-derived EXM-BM than in control EXM-BM. Leptin was found to be highly expressed in CTGF KD EXM-BM and in BM samples of patients with acute myeloid and acute lymphoblastic leukemia, whereas it was not expressed in normal controls. Given the established role of the leptin receptor in leukemia cells, the data suggest an important role of CTGF in MSC differentiation into adipocytes and of leptin in homing and progression of leukemia.
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Beesley AH, Firth MJ, Anderson D, Samuels AL, Ford J, Kees UR. Drug–Gene Modeling in Pediatric T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Highlights Importance of 6-Mercaptopurine for Outcome. Cancer Res 2013; 73:2749-59. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-12-3852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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19
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Taking aim at the extracellular matrix: CCN proteins as emerging therapeutic targets. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2011; 10:945-63. [PMID: 22129992 DOI: 10.1038/nrd3599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 490] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Members of the CCN family of matricellular proteins are crucial for embryonic development and have important roles in inflammation, wound healing and injury repair in adulthood. Deregulation of CCN protein expression or activities contributes to the pathobiology of various diseases - many of which may arise when inflammation or tissue injury becomes chronic - including fibrosis, atherosclerosis, arthritis and cancer, as well as diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy. Emerging studies indicate that targeting CCN protein expression or signalling pathways holds promise in the development of diagnostics and therapeutics for such diseases. This Review summarizes the biology of CCN proteins, their roles in various pathologies and their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Klemmer I, Yagi S, Gressner OA. Oral application of 1,7-dimethylxanthine (paraxanthine) attenuates the formation of experimental cholestatic liver fibrosis. Hepatol Res 2011; 41:1094-109. [PMID: 22032678 DOI: 10.1111/j.1872-034x.2011.00856.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
AIM Several epidemiological studies suggest a beneficial effect of coffee consumption on the formation and progression of fibrogenic diseases, particularly of the liver. Recent data now point to a modulation of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling by paraxanthine (1,7-dimethylxanthine [1,7-DMX]), the demethylated primary metabolite of caffeine METHODS Twenty adult Sprague-Dawley rats were bile duct ligated (BDL) or sham operated with or without concomitant oral 1,7-DMX (1 mM) application. Serum was investigated by standard biochemical analysis, in-house connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Liver tissue was stained using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and Sirius-red staining. Whole liver lysates, primary rat hepatocytes (PC) and hepatic stellate cells (HSC) were investigated by CTGF, and total Smad2/3 Western blot analysis, CTGF reporter gene assay or an in-house malondialdehyde ELISA. RESULTS The in vitro 50% inhibitory dose (ID50) of 1,7-DMX was 0.95 mM by for CTGF promoter activity and protein expression in PC and 1.25 mM for protein expression in HSC. Oral 1,7-DMX application (1 mM) attenuated cholestatic hepatocellular injury in vivo as determined by biochemical serum analysis and reduced intercellular collagen deposition in the cholestatic rat liver (HE- and Sirius-red staining). Western Blot analysis of whole liver lysates revealed a reduction of intrahepatic concentrations of Smad2/3 and CTGF following oral 1,7-DMX intake. However, serum CTGF concentrations were not reduced in 1,7-DMX treated BDL rats. Oral 1,7-DMX furthermore led to a reduction of intrahepatic lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde concentrations) as markers of oxidative stress in BDL rats. CONCLUSION Our pilot study warrants further studies of 1,7-DMX as a potential new drug to fight fibrotic processes, not just of the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ildikó Klemmer
- Wisplinghoff Medical Laboratories, Cologne, Germany Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreas and Transplant Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan Institute for Laboratory Animal Science and Experimental Surgery Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry - Central Laboratory, RWTH- University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
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21
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Interactions between acute lymphoblastic leukemia and bone marrow stromal cells influence response to therapy. Leuk Res 2011; 36:299-306. [PMID: 21889797 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2011.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2011] [Revised: 07/19/2011] [Accepted: 08/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The cure rate for pediatric patients with B precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (pre-B ALL) is steadily improving, however relapses do occur despite initial response to therapy. To identify links between drug resistance and gene deregulation we used oligonucleotide microarray technology and determined in 184 pre-B ALL specimen genes differentially expressed compared to normal CD34(+) specimens. We identified 20 signature genes including CTGF, BMP-2, CXCR4 and IL7R, documented to regulate interactions in the bone marrow. We recorded remarkably similar levels of expression in three independent patient cohorts, and found distinct patterns in cytogenetically defined subgroups of pre-B ALL. The canonical pathways that were affected are involved in inter- and intra-cellular communication, regulating signaling within the microenvironment. We tested experimentally whether interaction with stromal cells conferred protection to four drugs used in current ALL therapy, and demonstrated that bone marrow stromal cells significantly influenced resistance to vincristine and cytosine arabinoside. Compounds designed to block the identified cellular interactions within the bone marrow microenvironment are expected to mobilise the leukemic cells and make them more accessible to contemporary antileukemic agents. The data provide novel insight into the pathobiology of ALL and indicate new therapeutic targets for patients with ALL.
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22
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Weeks RJ, Kees UR, Song S, Morison IM. Silencing of TESTIN by dense biallelic promoter methylation is the most common molecular event in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Mol Cancer 2010; 9:163. [PMID: 20573277 PMCID: PMC3224738 DOI: 10.1186/1476-4598-9-163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2009] [Accepted: 06/24/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant promoter DNA methylation has been reported in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and has the potential to contribute to its onset and outcome. However, few reports demonstrate consistent, prevalent and dense promoter methylation, associated with tumour-specific gene silencing. By screening candidate genes, we have detected frequent and dense methylation of the TESTIN (TES) promoter. RESULTS Bisulfite sequencing showed that 100% of the ALL samples (n = 20) were methylated at the TES promoter, whereas the matched remission (n = 5), normal bone marrow (n = 6) and normal PBL (n = 5) samples were unmethylated. Expression of TES in hyperdiploid, TEL-AML+, BCR-ABL+, and E2A-PBX+ subtypes of B lineage ALL was markedly reduced compared to that in normal bone marrow progenitor cells and in B cells. In addition TES methylation and silencing was demonstrated in nine out of ten independent B ALL propagated as xenografts in NOD/SCID mice. CONCLUSION In total, 93% of B ALL samples (93 of 100) demonstrated methylation with silencing or reduced expression of the TES gene. Thus, TES is the most frequently methylated and silenced gene yet reported in ALL. TES, a LIM domain-containing tumour suppressor gene and component of the focal adhesion complex, is involved in adhesion, motility, cell-to-cell interactions and cell signalling. Our data implicate TES methylation in ALL and provide additional evidence for the involvement of LIM domain proteins in leukaemogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Weeks
- Cancer Genetics Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand.
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23
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Samuels AL, Peeva VK, Papa RA, Firth MJ, Francis RW, Beesley AH, Lock RB, Kees UR. Validation of a mouse xenograft model system for gene expression analysis of human acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. BMC Genomics 2010; 11:256. [PMID: 20406497 PMCID: PMC2876122 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-11-256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2009] [Accepted: 04/21/2010] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-clinical models that effectively recapitulate human disease are critical for expanding our knowledge of cancer biology and drug resistance mechanisms. For haematological malignancies, the non-obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) mouse is one of the most successful models to study paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). However, for this model to be effective for studying engraftment and therapy responses at the whole genome level, careful molecular characterisation is essential. RESULTS Here, we sought to validate species-specific gene expression profiling in the high engraftment continuous ALL NOD/SCID xenograft. Using the human Affymetrix whole transcript platform we analysed transcriptional profiles from engrafted tissues without prior cell separation of mouse cells and found it to return highly reproducible profiles in xenografts from individual mice. The model was further tested with experimental mixtures of human and mouse cells, demonstrating that the presence of mouse cells does not significantly skew expression profiles when xenografts contain 90% or more human cells. In addition, we present a novel in silico and experimental masking approach to identify probes and transcript clusters susceptible to cross-species hybridisation. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate species-specific transcriptional profiles can be obtained from xenografts when high levels of engraftment are achieved or with the application of transcript cluster masks. Importantly, this masking approach can be applied and adapted to other xenograft models where human tissue infiltration is lower. This model provides a powerful platform for identifying genes and pathways associated with ALL disease progression and response to therapy in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Samuels
- Division of Children's Leukaemia and Cancer Research, Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, Perth, Western Australia
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24
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Birgersdotter A, Baumforth KRN, Wei W, Murray PG, Sjöberg J, Björkholm M, Porwit A, Ernberg I. Connective tissue growth factor is expressed in malignant cells of Hodgkin lymphoma but not in other mature B-cell lymphomas. Am J Clin Pathol 2010; 133:271-80. [PMID: 20093237 DOI: 10.1309/ajcpg7h0ssryknkh] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has a major role in development of fibrosis and in the wound-healing process. Microarray analysis of 44 classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) samples showed higher CTGF messenger RNA expression in the nodular sclerosis (NS) than in the mixed cellularity (MC) subtype. When analyzed by immunohistochemical analysis, Hodgkin-Reed-Sternberg (H-RS) cells and macrophages in 23 cHLs and "popcorn" cells in 2 nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphomas showed expression of CTGF protein correlating with the extent of fibrosis. In NS, CTGF was also expressed in fibroblasts and occasional lymphocytes. Malignant cells in 32 samples of various non-Hodgkin lymphomas were negative for CTGF. A staining pattern of stromal cells similar to that of NS cHL was seen in anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Macrophages stained positively in Burkitt lymphomas and in some mantle cell lymphomas. The high occurrence of fibrosis in cHL may be related to CTGF expression by malignant H-RS cells.
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Gene expression classifiers for relapse-free survival and minimal residual disease improve risk classification and outcome prediction in pediatric B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Blood 2009; 115:1394-405. [PMID: 19880498 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2009-05-218560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
To determine whether gene expression profiling could improve outcome prediction in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at high risk for relapse, we profiled pretreatment leukemic cells in 207 uniformly treated children with high-risk B-precursor ALL. A 38-gene expression classifier predictive of relapse-free survival (RFS) could distinguish 2 groups with differing relapse risks: low (4-year RFS, 81%, n = 109) versus high (4-year RFS, 50%, n = 98; P < .001). In multivariate analysis, the gene expression classifier (P = .001) and flow cytometric measures of minimal residual disease (MRD; P = .001) each provided independent prognostic information. Together, they could be used to classify children with high-risk ALL into low- (87% RFS), intermediate- (62% RFS), or high- (29% RFS) risk groups (P < .001). A 21-gene expression classifier predictive of end-induction MRD effectively substituted for flow MRD, yielding a combined classifier that could distinguish these 3 risk groups at diagnosis (P < .001). These classifiers were further validated on an independent high-risk ALL cohort (P = .006) and retainedindependent prognostic significance (P < .001) in the presence of other recently described poor prognostic factors (IKAROS/IKZF1 deletions, JAK mutations, and kinase expression signatures). Thus, gene expression classifiers improve ALL risk classification and allow prospective identification of children who respond or fail current treatment regimens. These trials were registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov under NCT00005603.
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Abstract
Scientists at the National Institutes of Health have reported that increased coffee consumption is associated with a slower progression of fibrogenesis in patients with chronic and particularly alcoholic liver disease and a reduced incidence of heptocellular carcinoma. However, a causal mechanistic explanation was pending. New results indicate that the methylxanthine caffeine--a major component of coffee and the most widely consumed pharmacologically active substance in the world--might be responsible for this phenomenon, because it inhibits the synthesis of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) in liver parenchymal and nonparenchymal cells, primarily by inducing degradation of Smad2 (and to a much lesser extent Smad3) and thus impairment of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) signaling. CTGF and TGF-beta play crucial roles in the fibrotic remodeling of various organs, and, ultimately, carcinogenesis. This article summarizes the clinical-epidemiological observations as well as the pathophysiological background and provides suggestions for the therapeutic use of (methyl)xanthine derivatives in the management of fibro-/carcinogenic (liver) diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olav A Gressner
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Central Laboratory, RWTH University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
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Gressner OA. About coffee, cappuccino and connective tissue growth factor-Or how to protect your liver!? ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2009; 28:1-10. [PMID: 21783975 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2009.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2008] [Revised: 02/05/2009] [Accepted: 02/11/2009] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Several epidemiological studies suggest that coffee drinking is inversely correlated with the risk of development of liver fibrosis. However, a causal, mechanistic explanation has long been pending. New results indicate that the methylxanthine caffeine, major component of coffee and the most widely consumed pharmacologically active substance in the world, might be responsible for this phenomenon as it, and even more potently its derived primary metabolite paraxanthine, inhibits transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-dependent and -independent synthesis of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) in liver parenchymal cells in vitro and in vivo. CTGF plays a crucial role in the fibrotic remodeling of various organs which has therefore frequently been proposed as therapeutic target in the management of fibrotic disorders. This article summarizes the clinical-epidemiological observations as well as the pathophysiological background of the antifibrotic effects of coffee consumption and provides suggestions for the therapeutic use of caffeine and its derived metabolic methylxanthines as potentially powerful drugs in patients with chronic fibrogenic liver disease by their inhibitory effect on (hepatocellular) CTGF synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olav A Gressner
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Central Laboratory, RWTH-University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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Gressner OA, Gao C, Rehbein K, Lahme B, Siluschek M, Berg T, Müller T, Gressner AM. Elevated concentrations of 15-deoxy-Delta12,14-prostaglandin J2 in chronic liver disease propose therapeutic trials with peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma-inducing drugs. Liver Int 2009; 29:730-5. [PMID: 19018984 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2008.01895.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Current knowledge confers a crucial role to connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) in hepatic fibrogenesis. Hepatocytes are likely to be the major cellular source of CTGF in the liver in which CTGF is sensitively upregulated by TGF-beta. Recently, we demonstrated that the methylxanthine derivate caffeine leads to an upregulation of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) expression in hepatocytes, thus sensitizing these cells to the well-known inhibitory effect of 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15-d-PGJ(2)) on CTGF expression. However, upregulation of the receptor alone is not sufficient per se; its physiological ligand 15-d-PGJ(2) is required to exert an inhibitory effect on transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) target genes such as CTGF. METHODS This study compared serum concentrations of 15-d-PGJ(2) in Caucasian patients with fibrotic liver diseases (n=289), Caucasian controls (n=136) and Caucasian non-liver disease (NLD) sick (n=307), as well as of Chinese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (n=43) and Chinese healthy controls (n=63) in order to characterize their suitability for therapeutic approaches with PPARgamma-inducing (i.e. CTGF inhibitory) drugs such as caffeine. RESULTS The presented data showed that Caucasian patients with ongoing hepatic fibrogenesis (mean 6.2+/-5.9 microg/L) displayed strikingly higher serum concentrations of 15-d-PGJ(2) than healthy probands (mean 2.3+/-1.0) and Caucasian patients with NLD (mean 2.7+/-1.4 microg/L). Similar results were found in Chinese patients with fully developed HCC (mean 1.3+/-0.7 microg/L) compared with Chinese healthy controls (mean 0.4+/-0.2 microg/L). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our data thus proposed an increased suitability of these patient groups for therapeutic approaches with drugs inducing PPARgamma expression, such as methylxanthine derivates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olav A Gressner
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, RWTH-University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
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