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Luchini C, Scarpa A. Neoplastic Progression in Neuroendocrine Neoplasms of the Pancreas. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2024; 148:975-979. [PMID: 36881771 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2022-0417-ra] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT.— Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PanNENs) represent a heterogeneous group of epithelial tumors of the pancreas showing neuroendocrine differentiation. These neoplasms are classified into well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs), which include G1, G2, and G3 tumors, and poorly differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (PanNECs), which are G3 by definition. This classification mirrors clinical, histologic, and behavioral differences and is also supported by robust molecular evidence. OBJECTIVE.— To summarize and discuss the state of the art regarding neoplastic progression of PanNENs. A better comprehension of the mechanisms underpinning neoplastic evolution and progression of these neoplasms may open new horizons for expanding biologic knowledge and ultimately for addressing new therapeutic strategies for patients with PanNENs. DATA SOURCES.— Literature review of published studies and the authors' own work. CONCLUSIONS.— PanNETs can be seen as a unique category, where G1-G2 tumors may progress to G3 tumors mainly driven by DAXX/ATRX mutations and alternative lengthening of telomeres. Conversely, PanNECs display totally different histomolecular features more closely related to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, including TP53 and Rb alterations. They seem to derive from a nonneuroendocrine cell of origin. Even the study of PanNEN precursor lesions corroborates the rationale of considering PanNETs and PanNECs as separate and distinct entities. Improving the knowledge regarding this dichotomous distinction, which guides tumor evolution and progression, will represent a critical basis for PanNEN precision oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Luchini
- From the Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, ARC-Net Research Center, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- From the Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, ARC-Net Research Center, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Lamberti G, Panzuto F, Pavel M, O'Toole D, Ambrosini V, Falconi M, Garcia-Carbonero R, Riechelmann RP, Rindi G, Campana D. Gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2024; 10:25. [PMID: 38605021 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-024-00508-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms (gNENs) display peculiar site-specific features among all NENs. Their incidence and prevalence have been rising in the past few decades. gNENs comprise gastric neuroendocrine carcinomas (gNECs) and gastric neuroendocrine tumours (gNETs), the latter further classified into three types. Type I anatype II gNETs are gastrin-dependent and develop in chronic atrophic gastritis and as part of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome within a multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 syndrome (MEN1), respectively. Type III or sporadic gNETs develop in the absence of hypergastrinaemia and in the context of a near-normal or inflamed gastric mucosa. gNECs can also develop in the context of variable atrophic, relatively normal or inflamed gastric mucosa. Each gNEN type has different clinical characteristics and requires a different multidisciplinary approach in expert dedicated centres. Type I gNETs are managed mainly by endoscopy or surgery, whereas the treatment of type II gNETs largely depends on the management of the concomitant MEN1. Type III gNETs may require both locoregional approaches and systemic treatments; NECs are often metastatic and therefore require systemic treatment. Specific data regarding the systemic treatment of gNENs are lacking and are derived from the treatment of intestinal NETs and NECs. An enhanced understanding of molecular and clinical pathophysiology is needed to improve the management and outcomes of patients' gNETs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lamberti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Panzuto
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Digestive Disease Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, ENETS Center of Excellence, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianne Pavel
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Dermot O'Toole
- National Centre for Neuroendocrine Tumours, ENETS Centre of Excellence, St. Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Dublin, St. James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Valentina Ambrosini
- Nuclear Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Falconi
- Pancreatic Surgery, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Rocio Garcia-Carbonero
- Medicine Department, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Imas12, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Guido Rindi
- Section of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Woman and Child Health Sciences and Public Health, Anatomic Pathology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli - IRCCS, ENETS Center of Excellence, Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Campana
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
- Medical Oncology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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Riechelmann RP, Taboada RG, de Jesus VHF, Iglesia M, Trikalinos NA. Therapy Sequencing in Patients With Advanced Neuroendocrine Neoplasms. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2023; 43:e389278. [PMID: 37257140 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_389278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) comprise a beautifully complicated, exciting landscape of histologies and clinical behaviors. However, the nuanced complexity of low- and high-grade variants can easily overwhelm both patients and providers. In this chapter, we review the ever-expanding literature on both functioning and nonfunctioning small bowel and pancreatic NENs, touching on somatostatin analogs, hepatic-directed therapies, small molecules, radiopharmaceuticals, immunotherapy, cytotoxic chemotherapy, and new promising agents. Furthermore, we suggest some strategies to address the most challenging scenarios seen in clinical practice, including sequencing of agents, treatment of carcinoid syndrome, and options for well-differentiated high-grade disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rodrigo G Taboada
- Department of Clinical Oncology, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Michael Iglesia
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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Kong G, Boehm E, Prall O, Murray WK, Tothill RW, Michael M. Integrating Functional Imaging and Molecular Profiling for Optimal Treatment Selection in Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (NEN). Curr Oncol Rep 2023; 25:465-478. [PMID: 36826704 PMCID: PMC10110720 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-023-01381-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Gastroenteropancreatic NEN (GEP-NEN) are group of malignancies with significant clinical, anatomical and molecular heterogeneity. High-grade GEP-NEN in particular present unique management challenges. RECENT FINDINGS In the current era, multidisciplinary management with access to a combination of functional imaging and targeted molecular profiling can provide important disease characterisation, guide individualised management and improve patient outcome. Multiple treatment options are now available, and combination and novel therapies are being explored in clinical trials. Precision medicine is highly relevant for a heterogenous disease like NEN. The integration of dual-tracer functional PET/CT imaging, molecular histopathology and genomic data has the potential to be used to gain a more comprehensive understanding of an individual patient's disease biology for precision diagnosis, prognostication and optimal treatment allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Kong
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Therapeutic Nuclear Medicine, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia. .,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Emma Boehm
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Therapeutic Nuclear Medicine, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia.,Centre for Cancer Research and Department of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Owen Prall
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - William K Murray
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Richard W Tothill
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Cancer Research and Department of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael Michael
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Digital Image Analysis of Ki67 Heterogeneity Improves the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms. Mod Pathol 2023; 36:100017. [PMID: 36788066 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2022.100017] [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: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Ki67 is a reliable grading and prognostic biomarker of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs). The intratumor heterogeneity of Ki67, correlated with tumor progression, is a valuable factor that requires image analysis. The application of digital image analysis (DIA) enables new approaches for the assessment of Ki67 heterogeneity distribution. We investigated the diagnostic utility of Ki67 heterogeneity parameters in the classification and grading of GEP-NENs and explored their clinical values with regard to their prognostic relevance. The DIA algorithm was performed on whole-slide images of 102 resection samples with Ki67 staining. Good agreement was observed between the manual and DIA methods in the hotspot evaluation (R2 = 0.94, P < .01). Using the grid-based region of interest approach, score-based heat maps provided a distinctive overview of the intratumoral distribution of Ki67 between neuroendocrine carcinomas and neuroendocrine tumors. The computation of heterogeneity parameters related to DIA-determined Ki67 showed that the coefficient of variation and Morisita-Horn index were directly related to the classification and grading of GEP-NENs and provided insights into distinguishing high-grade neuroendocrine neoplasms (grade 3 neuroendocrine tumor vs neuroendocrine carcinoma, P < .01). Our study showed that a high Morisita-Horn index correlated with poor disease-free survival (multivariate analysis: hazard ratio, 56.69), which was found to be the only independent predictor of disease-free survival in patients with GEP-NEN. These spatial biomarkers have an impact on the classification and grading of tumors and highlight the prognostic associations of tumor heterogeneity. Digitization of Ki67 variations provides a direct and objective measurement of tumor heterogeneity and better predicts the biological behavior of GEP-NENs.
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Donadio MD, Brito ÂB, Riechelmann RP. A systematic review of therapeutic strategies in gastroenteropancreatic grade 3 neuroendocrine tumors. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2023; 15:17588359231156218. [PMID: 36950274 PMCID: PMC10026121 DOI: 10.1177/17588359231156218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) neuroendocrine neoplasms with Ki-67 > 20% were subdivided in the most recent 2019 World Health Organization histopathological classification into grade 3 (G3) neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), described as well-differentiated tumors, and neuroendocrine carcinomas, which are described as poorly differentiated tumors. This classification met the demand noted for different prognoses between these subgroups, prompting the need for treatment recommendations for well-differentiated G3 tumors. Methods We systematically searched medical literature databases and oncology conferences for studies on G3 GEP NET to describe epidemiology, diagnosis, molecular features, and treatments used. We excluded studies that did not discriminate G3 NET data. Data were tabulated and described, and a quality analysis of the reports was performed. Results We found 23 published studies and six abstracts; 89.7% of studies were retrospective, six were composed exclusively of G3 NETs. Among 761 patients, the median number of patients per study was 15, most were male and older than 60 years, and functional imaging tests were positive in more than 80% of cases. Overall, the scientific evidence supporting the treatment of G3 GEP NETs is limited. For localized disease, resection remains the standard treatment but there is no evidence to support neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy. For advanced disease, capecitabine and temozolomide seems to be the most effective option, with a response rate, median progression-free survival, and median overall survival up to 37.9%, 20.6 months, and 41.2 months, respectively. Conclusion The latest available data on the epidemiology, diagnosis, molecular changes, and treatment of G3 GEP NET are described. Yet, the level of evidence for treatment recommendations is low, as most studies are retrospective. A treatment algorithm for G3 GEP NET is proposed.
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Robinson MD, Livesey D, Hubner RA, Valle JW, McNamara MG. Future therapeutic strategies in the treatment of extrapulmonary neuroendocrine carcinoma: a review. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2023; 15:17588359231156870. [PMID: 36872945 PMCID: PMC9983111 DOI: 10.1177/17588359231156870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are rare malignancies arising most commonly in the gastrointestinal and bronchopulmonary systems. Neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are a subgroup of NENs characterised by aggressive tumour biology, poor differentiation and dismal prognosis. Most NEC primary lesions arise in the pulmonary system. However, a small proportion arise outside of the lung and are termed extrapulmonary (EP)-, poorly differentiated (PD)-NECs. Patients with local or locoregional disease may benefit from surgical excision; however, this is often not an option, due to late presentation. To date, treatment has mirrored that of small-cell lung cancer, with platinum-etoposide forming the basis of first-line treatment. There is a lack of consensus in relation to the most effective second-line treatment option. Low incidence, an absence of representative preclinical models and a lack of understanding of the tumour microenvironment all present challenges to drug development in this disease group. However, progress made in elucidating the mutational landscape of EP-PD-NEC and the observations made in several clinical trials are paving the way towards improving outcomes for these patients. The optimisation and strategic delivery of chemotherapeutic interventions according to tumour characteristics and the utilisation of targeted and immune therapies in clinical studies have yielded mixed results. Targeted therapies that complement specific genetic aberrations are under investigation, including AURKA inhibitors in those with MYCN amplifications, BRAF inhibitors in those with BRAFV600E mutations and EGFR suppression, and Ataxia Telangiectasia and Rad3-related inhibitors in patients with ATM mutations. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have conferred promising results in several clinical trials, particularly with dual ICIs and in combination with targeted therapy or chemotherapy. However, further prospective investigations are required to elucidate the impact of programmed cell death ligand 1 expression, tumour mutational burden and microsatellite instability on response. This review aims to explore the most recent developments in the treatment of EP-PD-NEC and contribute towards the requirement for clinical guidance founded on prospective evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Robinson
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel Livesey
- The Christie Library, School of Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Richard A Hubner
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Department of Medical Oncology, ENETS Centre of Excellence, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Juan W Valle
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Department of Medical Oncology, ENETS Centre of Excellence, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Mairéad G McNamara
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M20 4BX, UK.,Department of Medical Oncology, ENETS Centre of Excellence, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4BX, UK
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Xu S, Ye C, Chen R, Li Q, Ruan J. The Landscape and Clinical Application of the Tumor Microenvironment in Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122911. [PMID: 35740577 PMCID: PMC9221445 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a role in promoting tumor progression. Elucidating the relationship between the TME and tumor cells will benefit current therapies. Therefore, this review summarizes the most recent relationship between the TME and tumor characteristics, discusses the differences in the TME at various sites along the digestive tract, and compares the TMEs of neuroendocrine tumors and neuroendocrine carcinomas. Microbial ecological changes in the TME were reviewed. The clinical application of the TME was summarized from bench to bedside. The TME can be used as a tumor drug target for diagnostic value, prognosis prediction, and efficacy evaluation, further revealing the potential of immune checkpoints combined with antiangiogenic drugs. The clinical application prospects of adoptive cell therapy and oncolytic viruses were described. The potential therapeutic approaches and strategies for gastrointestinal neuroendocrine neoplasms are considered. Abstract Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms feature high heterogeneity. Neuroendocrine tumor cells are closely associated with the tumor microenvironment. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells are mutually educated by each other and by tumor cells. Immune cells have dual protumorigenic and antitumorigenic effects. The immune environment is conducive to the invasion and metastasis of the tumor; in turn, tumor cells can change the immune environment. These cells also form cytokines, immune checkpoint systems, and tertiary lymphoid structures to participate in the process of mutual adaptation. Additionally, the fibroblasts, vascular structure, and microbiota exhibit interactions with tumor cells. From bench to bedside, clinical practice related to the tumor microenvironment is also regarded as promising. Targeting immune components and angiogenic regulatory molecules has been shown to be effective. The clinical efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell therapy, and oncolytic viruses remains to be further discussed in clinical trials. Moreover, combination therapy is feasible for advanced high-grade tumors. The regulation of the tumor microenvironment based on multiple omics results can suggest innovative therapeutic strategies to prevent tumors from succeeding in immune escape and to support antitumoral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaishuai Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (S.X.); (C.Y.); (R.C.); (Q.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Chanqi Ye
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (S.X.); (C.Y.); (R.C.); (Q.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Ruyin Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (S.X.); (C.Y.); (R.C.); (Q.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Qiong Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (S.X.); (C.Y.); (R.C.); (Q.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Jian Ruan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (S.X.); (C.Y.); (R.C.); (Q.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou 310000, China
- Correspondence:
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