1
|
Merlini A, Rabino M, Brusco S, Pavese V, Masci D, Sangiolo D, Bironzo P, Scagliotti GV, Novello S, D'Ambrosio L. Epigenetic determinants in soft tissue sarcomas: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:17-28. [PMID: 38234142 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2306344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Soft tissue sarcomas are a group of rare, mesenchymal tumors characterized by dismal prognosis in advanced/metastatic stages. Knowledge of their molecular determinants is still rather limited. However, in recent years, epigenetic regulation - the modification of gene expression/function without DNA sequence variation - has emerged as a key player both in sarcomagenesis and sarcoma progression. AREAS COVERED Herein, we describe and review the main epigenetic mechanisms involved in chromatin remodeling and their role as disease drivers in different soft tissue sarcoma histotypes, focusing on epithelioid sarcoma, synovial sarcoma, and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors. Focusing on chromatin-remodeling complexes, we provide an in-depth on the role of BAF complex alterations in these soft tissue sarcoma histotypes. In parallel, we highlight current state-of-the-art and future perspectives in the development of rational, innovative treatments leveraging on epigenetic dysregulation in soft tissue sarcomas. EXPERT OPINION Therapeutic options for metastatic/advanced sarcomas are to date very limited and largely represented by cytotoxic agents, with only modest results. In the continuous attempt to find novel targets and innovative, effective drugs, epigenetic mechanisms represent an emerging and promising field of research, especially for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, epithelioid and synovial sarcoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Martina Rabino
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Silvia Brusco
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research Royal Cancer Hospital, London, UK
| | - Valeria Pavese
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Debora Masci
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Dario Sangiolo
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Paolo Bironzo
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
- Medical Oncology, S. Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Giorgio Vittorio Scagliotti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
- Medical Oncology, S. Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Silvia Novello
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
- Medical Oncology, S. Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Lorenzo D'Ambrosio
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
- Medical Oncology, S. Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| |
Collapse
|