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Choudhury AR, Nagesh AM, Gupta S, Chaturvedi PK, Kumar N, Sandeep K, Pandey D. MicroRNA signature of stromal-epithelial interactions in prostate and breast cancers. Exp Cell Res 2024; 441:114171. [PMID: 39029573 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.114171] [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: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Stromal-epithelial communication is an absolute necessity when it comes to the morphogenesis and pathogenesis of solid tissues, including the prostate and breast. So far, signalling pathways of several growth factors have been investigated. Besides such chemical factors, non-coding RNAs such as miRNAs have recently gained much interest because of their variety and complexity of action. Prostate and breast tissues being highly responsive to steroid hormones such as androgen and estrogen, respectively, it is not surprising that a huge set of available literature critically investigated the interplay between such hormones and miRNAs, especially in carcinogenesis. This review showcases our effort to highlight hormonally-related miRNAs that also somehow perturb the regular stromal-epithelial interactions during carcinogenesis in the prostate and breast. In future, we look forward to exploring how hormonal changes in the tissue microenvironment bring about miRNA-mediated changes in stromal-epithelial interactome in carcinogenesis and cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Roy Choudhury
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India; Department of Biology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - A Muni Nagesh
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Surabhi Gupta
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Neeraj Kumar
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Kumar Sandeep
- Department of Preventive Oncology, Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Deepak Pandey
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
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2
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Shukla N, Shah K, Rathore D, Soni K, Shah J, Vora H, Dave H. Androgen receptor: Structure, signaling, function and potential drug discovery biomarker in different breast cancer subtypes. Life Sci 2024; 348:122697. [PMID: 38710280 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122697] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The Androgen Receptor (AR) is emerging as an important factor in the pathogenesis of breast cancer (BC), which is the most common malignancy worldwide. >70 % of AR expression in primary and metastatic breast tumors has been observed which suggests that AR may be a new marker and a potential therapeutic target among AR-positive BC patients. Biological insight into AR-positive breast cancer reveals that AR may cross-talk with several vital signaling pathways, including key molecules and receptors. Downstream signaling of AR might also affect many clinically important pathways that are emerging as clinical targets in BC. AR exhibits different behaviors depending on the breast cancer molecular subtype. Preliminary clinical research using AR-targeted drugs, which have already been FDA-approved for prostate cancer (PC), has given promising results for AR-positive breast cancer patients. However, since AR positivity's prognostic and predictive value remains uncertain, it is difficult to identify and stratify patients who would benefit from AR-targeted therapies alone. Thus, the need of the hour is to target the androgen receptor as a monotherapy or in combination with other conventional therapies which has proven to be an effective clinical strategy for the treatment of prostate cancer patients, and these therapeutic strategies are increasingly being investigated in breast cancer. Therefore, in this manuscript, we review the role of AR in various cellular processes that promote tumorigenesis and aggressiveness, in different subtypes of breast cancer, as well as discuss ongoing efforts to target AR for the more effective treatment and prevention of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirali Shukla
- Institute of Science, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India
| | - Kanisha Shah
- Division of Biological & Life Sciences, School of Arts & Sciences, Ahmedabad University, Central Campus, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380009, India
| | - Deepshikha Rathore
- Institute of Science, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India
| | - Kinal Soni
- Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India
| | - Jigna Shah
- Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India
| | - Hemangini Vora
- The Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380016, India
| | - Heena Dave
- Institute of Science, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India.
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Hugh JC, Haddon LSJ, Githaka JM. DREAM On, DREAM Off: A Review of the Estrogen Paradox in Luminal A Breast Cancers. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1300. [PMID: 38927507 PMCID: PMC11201522 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
It is generally assumed that all estrogen-receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancers proliferate in response to estrogen and, therefore, examples of the estrogen-induced regression of ER+ cancers are paradoxical. This review re-examines the estrogen regression paradox for the Luminal A subtype of ER+ breast cancers. The proliferative response to estrogen is shown to depend on the level of ER. Mechanistically, a window of opportunity study of pre-operative estradiol suggested that with higher levels of ER, estradiol could activate the DREAM-MMB (Dimerization partner, Retinoblastoma-like proteins, E2F4, and MuvB-MYB-MuvB) pathway to decrease proliferation. The response of breast epithelium and the incidence of breast cancers during hormonal variations that occur during the menstrual cycle and at the menopausal transition, respectively, suggest that a single hormone, either estrogen, progesterone or androgen, could activate the DREAM pathway, leading to reversible cell cycle arrest. Conversely, the presence of two hormones could switch the DREAM-MMB complex to a pro-proliferative pathway. Using publicly available data, we examine the gene expression changes after aromatase inhibitors and ICI 182,780 to provide support for the hypothesis. This review suggests that it might be possible to integrate all current hormonal therapies for Luminal A tumors within a single theoretical schema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith C. Hugh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, 116 St & 85 Ave, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Lacey S. J. Haddon
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, 116 St & 85 Ave, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
| | - John Maringa Githaka
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, 116 St & 85 Ave, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
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4
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Zhao J, Wang Q, Tan AF, Loh CJL, Toh HC. Sex differences in cancer and immunotherapy outcomes: the role of androgen receptor. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1416941. [PMID: 38863718 PMCID: PMC11165033 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1416941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Across the wide range of clinical conditions, there exists a sex imbalance where biological females are more prone to autoimmune diseases and males to some cancers. These discrepancies are the combinatory consequence of lifestyle and environmental factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and oncogenic viruses, as well as other intrinsic biological traits including sex chromosomes and sex hormones. While the emergence of immuno-oncology (I/O) has revolutionised cancer care, the efficacy across multiple cancers may be limited because of a complex, dynamic interplay between the tumour and its microenvironment (TME). Indeed, sex and gender can also influence the varying effectiveness of I/O. Androgen receptor (AR) plays an important role in tumorigenesis and in shaping the TME. Here, we lay out the epidemiological context of sex disparity in cancer and then review the current literature on how AR signalling contributes to such observation via altered tumour development and immunology. We offer insights into AR-mediated immunosuppressive mechanisms, with the hope of translating preclinical and clinical evidence in gender oncology into improved outcomes in personalised, I/O-based cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junzhe Zhao
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Qian Wang
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Medical Oncology Cancer Hospital of China Medical University/Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | | | - Celestine Jia Ling Loh
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Han Chong Toh
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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5
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Hancock GR, Gertz J, Jeselsohn R, Fanning SW. Estrogen Receptor Alpha Mutations, Truncations, Heterodimers, and Therapies. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae051. [PMID: 38643482 PMCID: PMC11075793 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Annual breast cancer (BCa) deaths have declined since its apex in 1989 concomitant with widespread adoption of hormone therapies that target estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), the prominent nuclear receptor expressed in ∼80% of BCa. However, up to ∼50% of patients who are ER+ with high-risk disease experience post endocrine therapy relapse and metastasis to distant organs. The vast majority of BCa mortality occurs in this setting, highlighting the inadequacy of current therapies. Genomic abnormalities to ESR1, the gene encoding ERα, emerge under prolonged selective pressure to enable endocrine therapy resistance. These genetic lesions include focal gene amplifications, hotspot missense mutations in the ligand binding domain, truncations, fusions, and complex interactions with other nuclear receptors. Tumor cells utilize aberrant ERα activity to proliferate, spread, and evade therapy in BCa as well as other cancers. Cutting edge studies on ERα structural and transcriptional relationships are being harnessed to produce new therapies that have shown benefits in patients with ESR1 hotspot mutations. In this review we discuss the history of ERα, current research unlocking unknown aspects of ERα signaling including the structural basis for receptor antagonism, and future directions of ESR1 investigation. In addition, we discuss the development of endocrine therapies from their inception to present day and survey new avenues of drug development to improve pharmaceutical profiles, targeting, and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Govinda R Hancock
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60513, USA
| | - Jason Gertz
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Rinath Jeselsohn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sean W Fanning
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60513, USA
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Trout AL, McLouth CJ, Westberry JM, Sengoku T, Wilson ME. Estrogen's sex-specific effects on ischemic cell death and estrogen receptor mRNA expression in rat cortical organotypic explants. AGING BRAIN 2024; 5:100117. [PMID: 38650743 PMCID: PMC11033203 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbas.2024.100117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Estrogens, such as the biologically active 17-β estradiol (E2), regulate not only reproductive behaviors in adults, but also influence neurodevelopment and neuroprotection in both females and males. E2, contingent upon the timing and concentration of the therapy, is neuroprotective in female and male rodent models of stroke. In Vivo studies suggest that E2 may partially mediate this neuroprotection, particularly in the cortex, via ERα. In Vitro studies, utilizing a chemically induced ischemic injury in cortical explants from both sexes, suggest that ERα or ERβ signaling is needed to mediate the E2 protection. Since we know that the timing and concentration of E2 therapy may be sex-specific, we examined if E2 (1 nM) mediates neuroprotection when female and male cortical explants are separately isolated from postnatal day (PND) 3-4 rat. Changes in basal levels ERα, ERβ, and AR mRNA expression are compared across early post-natal development in the intact cortex and the corresponding days in vitro (DIV) for cortical explants. Following ischemic injury at 7 DIV, cell death and ERα, ERβ and AR mRNA expression was compared in female and male cortical explants. We provide evidence that E2-mediated protection is maintained in isolated cortical explants from females, but not male rats. In female cortical explants, the E2-mediated protection at 24 h occurs secondarily to a blunted transient increase in ERα mRNA at 12 h. These results suggest that cortical E2-mediated protection is influenced by sex and supports data to differentially treat females and males following ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L. Trout
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Christopher J McLouth
- Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Jenne M. Westberry
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Tomoko Sengoku
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Melinda E. Wilson
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
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Kim JH, Bae GH, Jung J, Noh TI. Secondary Cancer after Androgen Deprivation Therapy in Prostate Cancer: A Nationwide Study. World J Mens Health 2024; 42:42.e34. [PMID: 38606859 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.230237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Androgen signaling is associated with various secondary cancer, which could be promising for potential treatment using androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). This study investigated whether ADT use was associated with secondary cancers other than prostate cancer in a nationwide population-based cohort. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total, 278,434 men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2017 were identified. After applying the exclusion criteria, 170,416 men were enrolled. The study cohort was divided into ADT and non-ADT groups by individual matching followed by propensity score matching (PSM). Study outcomes were incidence of all male cancers. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of events. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 4.5 years, a total of 11,059 deaths (6,329 in the ADT group and 4,730 in the non-ADT group) after PSM were found. After PSM, the overall all-cause of secondary cancer incidence risk of the ADT group was higher than that of the non-ADT group (HR: 1.312, 95% CI: 1.23-1.36; adjusted HR: 1.344, 95% CI: 1.29-1.40). The ADT group showed higher risk of overall brain and other central nervous system (CNS) cancer-specific incidence than the non-ADT group (adjusted HR: 1.648, 95% CI: 1.21-2.24). The ADT group showed lower risks of overall cancer-specific incidence for stomach, colon/rectum, liver/inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gall bladder/extrahepatic bile duct, lung, bladder, and kidney cancers than the non-ADT group. When the duration of ADT was more than 2 years of ADT, the ADT group showed higher risk of cancer-specific incidence for brain and other CNS cancers but lower risk of cancer-specific incidence for liver/IBD and lung cancers than the non-ADT group. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that ADT could affect cancer-specific incidence for various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Heon Kim
- Department of Urology, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gi Hwan Bae
- Artificial Intelligence and Big-Data Convergence Center, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jaehun Jung
- Artificial Intelligence and Big-Data Convergence Center, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea.
| | - Tae Il Noh
- Department of Urology, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Manickasamy MK, Jayaprakash S, Girisa S, Kumar A, Lam HY, Okina E, Eng H, Alqahtani MS, Abbas M, Sethi G, Kumar AP, Kunnumakkara AB. Delineating the role of nuclear receptors in colorectal cancer, a focused review. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:41. [PMID: 38372868 PMCID: PMC10876515 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00808-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) stands as one of the most prevalent form of cancer globally, causing a significant number of deaths, surpassing 0.9 million in the year 2020. According to GLOBOCAN 2020, CRC ranks third in incidence and second in mortality in both males and females. Despite extensive studies over the years, there is still a need to establish novel therapeutic targets to enhance the patients' survival rate in CRC. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are ligand-activated transcription factors (TFs) that regulate numerous essential biological processes such as differentiation, development, physiology, reproduction, and cellular metabolism. Dysregulation and anomalous expression of different NRs has led to multiple alterations, such as impaired signaling cascades, mutations, and epigenetic changes, leading to various diseases, including cancer. It has been observed that differential expression of various NRs might lead to the initiation and progression of CRC, and are correlated with poor survival outcomes in CRC patients. Despite numerous studies on the mechanism and role of NRs in this cancer, it remains of significant scientific interest primarily due to the diverse functions that various NRs exhibit in regulating key hallmarks of this cancer. Thus, modulating the expression of NRs with their agonists and antagonists, based on their expression levels, holds an immense prospect in the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutical modalities of CRC. In this review, we primarily focus on the role and mechanism of NRs in the pathogenesis of CRC and emphasized the significance of targeting these NRs using a variety of agents, which may represent a novel and effective strategy for the prevention and treatment of this cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukesh Kumar Manickasamy
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Sujitha Jayaprakash
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Sosmitha Girisa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Aviral Kumar
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Hiu Yan Lam
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117600, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117699, Singapore
| | - Elena Okina
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117600, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117699, Singapore
| | - Huiyan Eng
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117600, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117699, Singapore
| | - Mohammed S Alqahtani
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, 61421, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- BioImaging Unit, Space Research Centre, Michael Atiyah Building, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, 61421, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117600, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117699, Singapore
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117600, Singapore.
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, 117699, Singapore.
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India.
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Hosseinzadeh L, Kikhtyak Z, Laven-Law G, Pederson SM, Puiu CG, D'Santos CS, Lim E, Carroll JS, Tilley WD, Dwyer AR, Hickey TE. The androgen receptor interacts with GATA3 to transcriptionally regulate a luminal epithelial cell phenotype in breast cancer. Genome Biol 2024; 25:44. [PMID: 38317241 PMCID: PMC10840202 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-023-03161-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The androgen receptor (AR) is a tumor suppressor in estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer, a role sustained in some ER negative breast cancers. Key factors dictating AR genomic activity in a breast context are largely unknown. Herein, we employ an unbiased chromatin immunoprecipitation-based proteomic technique to identify endogenous AR interacting co-regulatory proteins in ER positive and negative models of breast cancer to gain new insight into mechanisms of AR signaling in this disease. RESULTS The DNA-binding factor GATA3 is identified and validated as a novel AR interacting protein in breast cancer cells irrespective of ER status. AR activation by the natural ligand 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) increases nuclear AR-GATA3 interactions, resulting in AR-dependent enrichment of GATA3 chromatin binding at a sub-set of genomic loci. Silencing GATA3 reduces but does not prevent AR DNA binding and transactivation of genes associated with AR/GATA3 co-occupied loci, indicating a co-regulatory role for GATA3 in AR signaling. DHT-induced AR/GATA3 binding coincides with upregulation of luminal differentiation genes, including EHF and KDM4B, established master regulators of a breast epithelial cell lineage. These findings are validated in a patient-derived xenograft model of breast cancer. Interaction between AR and GATA3 is also associated with AR-mediated growth inhibition in ER positive and ER negative breast cancer. CONCLUSIONS AR and GATA3 interact to transcriptionally regulate luminal epithelial cell differentiation in breast cancer regardless of ER status. This interaction facilitates the tumor suppressor function of AR and mechanistically explains why AR expression is associated with less proliferative, more differentiated breast tumors and better overall survival in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Hosseinzadeh
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Zoya Kikhtyak
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Geraldine Laven-Law
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stephen M Pederson
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Caroline G Puiu
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Clive S D'Santos
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Elgene Lim
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jason S Carroll
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Wayne D Tilley
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Amy R Dwyer
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Theresa E Hickey
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
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Horton AC, Wilkinson MM, Kilanowski-Doroh I, Dong Z, Liu J, Ogola BO, Visniauskas B, Lindsey SH. Dihydrotestosterone induces arterial stiffening in female mice. Biol Sex Differ 2024; 15:9. [PMID: 38263051 PMCID: PMC10804721 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-024-00586-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Androgens are important sex hormones in both men and women and are supplemented when endogenous levels are low, for gender transitioning, or to increase libido. Androgens also circulate at higher levels in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, a condition that increases the risk for cardiovascular diseases including hypertension and arterial stiffness. Since our previous work shows an important role for the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in arterial stiffness, we hypothesized that other hormones including androgens may impact arterial stiffness in female mice via downregulation of GPER. METHODS The impact of the non-aromatizable androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the glucocorticoid dexamethasone, and the progestin medroxyprogesterone acetate (all 100 nM for 24 h) on GPER and ERα expression was assessed in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). To assess the in vivo impact of the DHT-induced downregulation of GPER, female ovary-intact C57Bl/6 mice at 15-16 weeks of age were treated with silastic capsules containing DHT for 4 weeks, one with a dosage expected to mimic human male DHT levels and another to double the expected human concentration (n = 8-9/group). RESULTS In cultured vascular smooth muscle cells, GPER mRNA was decreased by DHT (P = 0.001) but was not impacted by dexamethasone or medroxyprogesterone. In contrast, ERα expression in cultured cells was significantly suppressed by all three hormones (P < 0.0001). In control mice or mice treated with a single or double dose of DHT, a dose-dependent increase in body weight was observed (control 22 ± 2 g, single dose 24 ± 2 g, double dose 26 ± 2 g; P = 0.0002). Intracarotid stiffness measured via pulse wave velocity showed a more than two-fold increase in both DHT-treated groups (control 1.9 ± 0.3 m/s, single dose 4.3 ± 0.8 m/s, double dose 4.8 ± 1.0 m/s). This increase in arterial stiffness occurred independent of changes in blood pressure (P = 0.59). Histological analysis of aortic sections using Masson's trichrome showed a significant decrease in collagen between the control group (24 ± 5%) and the double dose group (17 ± 3%, P = 0.007), despite no changes in aortic wall thickness or smooth muscle content. Lastly, ddPCR showed that in vivo DHT treatment decreased aortic expression of both GPER (control 20 ± 5, single dose 10.5 ± 5.6, double dose 10 ± 4 copies/ng; P = 0.001) and ERα (control 54 ± 2, single dose 24 ± 13, and double dose 23 ± 12 copies/ng; P = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that androgen promotes arterial stiffening and cardiovascular damage in female mice and is associated with decreased estrogen receptor expression. These data are important for transgender men, women using testosterone for fitness or reduced libido, as well as patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alec C Horton
- Department of Pharmacology and Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Mary M Wilkinson
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Zhejun Dong
- Department of Pediatrics, Tulane School of Medicine, Hayward Genetics Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Jiao Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Tulane School of Medicine, Hayward Genetics Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Benard O Ogola
- Vascular Biology Center and Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Bruna Visniauskas
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Sarah H Lindsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA.
- Tulane Center of Excellence in Sex-Based Biology and Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA.
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Singla RK, Wang X, Gundamaraju R, Joon S, Tsagkaris C, Behzad S, Khan J, Gautam R, Goyal R, Rakmai J, Dubey AK, Simal-Gandara J, Shen B. Natural products derived from medicinal plants and microbes might act as a game-changer in breast cancer: a comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical studies. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2023; 63:11880-11924. [PMID: 35838143 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2097196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent neoplasm among women. Genetic and environmental factors lead to BC development and on this basis, several preventive - screening and therapeutic interventions have been developed. Hormones, both in the form of endogenous hormonal signaling or hormonal contraceptives, play an important role in BC pathogenesis and progression. On top of these, breast microbiota includes both species with an immunomodulatory activity enhancing the host's response against cancer cells and species producing proinflammatory cytokines associated with BC development. Identification of novel multitargeted therapeutic agents with poly-pharmacological potential is a dire need to combat advanced and metastatic BC. A growing body of research has emphasized the potential of natural compounds derived from medicinal plants and microbial species as complementary BC treatment regimens, including dietary supplements and probiotics. In particular, extracts from plants such as Artemisia monosperma Delile, Origanum dayi Post, Urtica membranacea Poir. ex Savigny, Krameria lappacea (Dombey) Burdet & B.B. Simpson and metabolites extracted from microbes such as Deinococcus radiodurans and Streptomycetes strains as well as probiotics like Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus brevis MK05 have exhibited antitumor effects in the form of antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity, increase in tumors' chemosensitivity, antioxidant activity and modulation of BC - associated molecular pathways. Further, bioactive compounds like 3,3'-diindolylmethane, epigallocatechin gallate, genistein, rutin, resveratrol, lycopene, sulforaphane, silibinin, rosmarinic acid, and shikonin are of special interest for the researchers and clinicians because these natural agents have multimodal action and act via multiple ways in managing the BC and most of these agents are regularly available in our food and fruit diets. Evidence from clinical trials suggests that such products had major potential in enhancing the effectiveness of conventional antitumor agents and decreasing their side effects. We here provide a comprehensive review of the therapeutic effects and mechanistic underpinnings of medicinal plants and microbial metabolites in BC management. The future perspectives on the translation of these findings to the personalized treatment of BC are provided and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev K Singla
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- iGlobal Research and Publishing Foundation, New Delhi, India
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Rohit Gundamaraju
- ER Stress and Mucosal Immunology Lab, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Shikha Joon
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- iGlobal Research and Publishing Foundation, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Sahar Behzad
- Evidence-based Phytotherapy and Complementary Medicine Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Johra Khan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Saudi Arabia
- Health and Basic Sciences Research Center, Majmaah University, Majmaah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rupesh Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, MM School of Pharmacy, MM University, Sadopur, Haryana, India
| | - Rajat Goyal
- Department of Pharmacology, MM School of Pharmacy, MM University, Sadopur, Haryana, India
| | - Jaruporn Rakmai
- Kasetsart Agricultural and Agro-Industrial Product Improvement Institute (KAPI), Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidade de Vigo, Ourense, Spain
| | - Bairong Shen
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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12
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Quintero JC, Díaz NF, Rodríguez-Dorantes M, Camacho-Arroyo I. Cancer Stem Cells and Androgen Receptor Signaling: Partners in Disease Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15085. [PMID: 37894767 PMCID: PMC10606328 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells exhibit self-renewal, tumorigenesis, and a high differentiation potential. These cells have been detected in every type of cancer, and different signaling pathways can regulate their maintenance and proliferation. Androgen receptor signaling plays a relevant role in the pathophysiology of prostate cancer, promoting cell growth and differentiation processes. However, in the case of prostate cancer stem cells, the androgen receptor negatively regulates their maintenance and self-renewal. On the other hand, there is evidence that androgen receptor activity positively regulates the generation of cancer stem cells in other types of neoplasia, such as breast cancer or glioblastoma. Thus, the androgen receptor role in cancer stem cells depends on the cellular context. We aimed to analyze androgen receptor signaling in the maintenance and self-renewal of different types of cancer stem cells and its action on the expression of transcription factors and surface markers associated with stemness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Quintero
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 11000, Mexico;
| | - Néstor Fabián Díaz
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City 11000, Mexico;
| | | | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 11000, Mexico;
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Sidhu S, Kwatra KS, Kinsley PA. Androgen Receptor Expression in ER and PR Negative Breast Cancer-A Study from a Tertiary Hospital in Northern India. South Asian J Cancer 2023; 12:319-325. [PMID: 38130277 PMCID: PMC10733066 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1768920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Sumeet SidhuObjectives Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. Estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) status and Her2 overexpression are major determinants in therapeutic decision making. Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) have limited treatment options. Androgen receptor (AR) expression opens up therapeutic avenues for these patients. The aim of this article was to study the immunohistochemical expression of ARs in ER and PR Negative breast carcinomas and to correlate AR expression with various clinical, histopathological, and other immunohistochemical parameters. Materials and Methods It is a cross-sectional study including 105 ER and PR Negative cases of breast carcinoma. Clinical parameters, histopathology, and immunohistochemical expression of AR, Her2, and Ki67 were analyzed in all cases. Results AR expression was observed in 63.8% of ER and PR Negative breast cancers. In this group, AR expression was strongly associated with Her2 co-expression (89.2%) as compared to TNBCs (45.8%); p -value = 0.0002. Significant correlation was also observed between AR expression and tumor necrosis ( p -value = 0.034) and postmenopausal status ( p = 0.007). Conclusion Our study shows that significant proportion of ER and PR Negative breast carcinomas (ER- PR- Her2+ and TNBCs) show AR expression. We strongly recommend routine evaluation of all hormone receptor-negative breast carcinomas for AR status by immunohistochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumeet Sidhu
- Christian Medical College and Hospital Ludhiana, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
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14
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Zhang Z, Zhang R, Li D. Molecular Biology Mechanisms and Emerging Therapeutics of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Biologics 2023; 17:113-128. [PMID: 37767463 PMCID: PMC10520847 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s426392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that is conventionally characterized by the absence of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2), accounting for approximately 15-20% of all breast cancers. Compared to other molecular phenotypes, TNBC is typically associated with high malignancy and poor prognosis. Cytotoxic agents have been the mainstay of treatment for the past few decades due to the lack of definitive targets and limited therapeutic interventions. However, recent developments have demonstrated that TNBC has peculiar molecular classifications and biomarkers, which provide the possibility of evolving treatment from basic cytotoxic chemotherapy to an expanding domain of targeted therapies. This review presents a framework for understanding the current clinical experience surrounding molecular biology mechanisms in TNBC (Figure 1). Including immunotherapy, polymerase (PARP) and PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates, and androgen receptor (AR) blockade. Additionally, the role of miRNA therapeutics targeting TNBC and potential strategies targeting cancer stem cells (CSCs) are discussed and highlighted. As more and more treatments arise on the horizon, we believe that patients with TNBC will have a new sense of hope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiying Zhang
- Inner Mongolia Medical University, Department of Thyroid Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia, 010050, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Inner Mongolia Medical University, Department of Thyroid Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia, 010050, People’s Republic of China
| | - Donghai Li
- Inner Mongolia Medical University, Department of Thyroid Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia, 010050, People’s Republic of China
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15
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Li L, Zheng S, Chen M, Chi W, Xue J, Wu J. The Prognostic Values of Androgen Receptor in Breast Cancer. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2023; 147:1075-1085. [PMID: 36508355 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2021-0590-oa] [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: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT.— Whether androgen receptor (AR) expression can predict prognosis in breast cancer is under debate. OBJECTIVE.— To analyze, retrospectively, the prognostic and treatment-predictive ability of AR status in breast cancer. DESIGN.— A total of 5765 patients diagnosed with primary invasive breast cancer without distant metastasis in the adjuvant setting were analyzed. The propensity score-matching method was used to develop a new cohort of 3978 patients (1989 patients each) in which important prognostic factors were balanced. RESULTS.— Positive AR expression is an independent prognostic factor for disease-free survival and overall survival. Estrogen receptor (ER)+ and progesterone receptor (PR)+ AR+ breast cancer patients had the longest survival, whereas ER-PR-AR- breast cancer patients had the shortest survival. The ER/PR/AR combinations could not predict the treatment effects for adjuvant trastuzumab but could be used for adjuvant chemotherapy and endocrine therapy selection. The worst survival was found in ER+PR-AR- patients receiving toremifene, ER+PR-AR+ patients receiving exemestane, ER+PR+AR- patients receiving anthracycline, and ER-PR-AR+ patients receiving taxanes. ER+PR-AR-, ER-PR-AR+, and ER-PR-AR- patients were associated with the worst survival among those who received radiotherapy and anthracycline plus taxanes. CONCLUSIONS.— AR in combination with ER and PR could predict the prognosis and treatment effects of chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, and radiotherapy in the adjuvant setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lun Li
- From the Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
- The Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
- The Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China (Li)
| | - Shuyue Zheng
- From the Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
- The Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
| | - Ming Chen
- From the Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
- The Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
| | - Weiru Chi
- From the Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
- The Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
| | - Jingyan Xue
- From the Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
- The Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
| | - Jiong Wu
- From the Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
- The Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (Li, Zheng, Chen, Chi, Xue, Wu)
- The Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Shanghai, China (Wu)
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16
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Morelli C, Chiodo C, Nocito MC, Cormace A, Catalano S, Sisci D, Sirianni R, Casaburi I, Andò S, Lanzino M. Androgens Modulate Bcl-2 Agonist of Cell Death (BAD) Expression and Function in Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13464. [PMID: 37686282 PMCID: PMC10487823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Androgen receptor (AR) expression in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer (BC) correlates with lower tumor grade and a better clinical outcome. Additionally, in normal mammary epithelium or ER+ BC preclinical models, androgens counteract basal/ER-dependent proliferation. Here, we report an additional mechanism, underlining the protective role exerted by AR. Specifically, the activation of intracellular AR upregulates the Bcl-2-family protein BAD, and TCGA database analyses show that in ER+ BC, BAD expression is associated with better disease-free survival. Ligand-activated AR influences its own and BAD cellular compartmentalization by enhancing levels in the nucleus, as well as in mitochondrial fractions. In both compartments, BAD exerts unconventional functions. In the nucleus, BAD and AR physically interact and, upon androgen stimulation, are recruited at the AP-1 and ARE sites within the cyclin D1 promoter region, contributing to explaining the anti-proliferative effect of androgens in BC cells. Androgens cause an enrichment in BAD and AR content in the mitochondria, correlated with a decrease in mitochondrial function. Thus, we have defined a novel mechanism by which androgens modulate BAD expression, its mitochondria localization, and nuclear content to force its ability to act as a cell cycle inhibitor, strengthening the protective role of androgen signaling in estrogen-responsive BCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catia Morelli
- Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.N.); (S.C.); (D.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata Di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Chiara Chiodo
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata Di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Marta Claudia Nocito
- Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.N.); (S.C.); (D.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Alessandro Cormace
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata Di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.N.); (S.C.); (D.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata Di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Diego Sisci
- Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.N.); (S.C.); (D.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata Di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Rosa Sirianni
- Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.N.); (S.C.); (D.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Ivan Casaburi
- Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.N.); (S.C.); (D.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.N.); (S.C.); (D.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata Di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Marilena Lanzino
- Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.N.); (S.C.); (D.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata Di Rende, CS, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.)
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17
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Liang XW, Wang SZ, Liu B, Chen JC, Cao Z, Chu FR, Lin X, Liu H, Wu JC. A review of deubiquitinases and thier roles in tumorigenesis and development. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1204472. [PMID: 37251574 PMCID: PMC10213685 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1204472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin is a small protein that can be added onto target protein for inducing target degradation, thereby modulating the activity and stability of protein. Relatively, deubiquitinases (DUBs), a class catalase that can remove ubiquitin from substrate protein, provide a positive regulation of the protein amount at transcription level, post-translational modification, protein interaction, etc. The reversible and dynamic ubiquitination-deubiquitination process plays an essential role in maintaining protein homeostasis, which is critical to almost all the biological processes. Therefore, the metabolic dysregulation of deubiquitinases often lead to serious consequences, including the growth and metastasis of tumors. Accordingly, deubiquitinases can be served as key drug targets for the treatment of tumors. The small molecule inhibitors targeting deubiquitinases has become one of the hot spots of anti-tumor drug research areas. This review concentrated on the function and mechanism of deubiquitinase system in the proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis and autophagy of tumor cells. The research status of small molecule inhibitors of specific deubiquitinases in tumor treatment is introduced, aiming to provide reference for the development of clinical targeted drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Wen Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Sheng-Zhong Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine Affiliated Haikou Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine Affiliated Haikou Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Jia-Cheng Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Zhi Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Feng-Ran Chu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Xiong Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine Affiliated Haikou Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Jin-Cai Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
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18
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Leo J, Dondossola E, Basham KJ, Wilson NR, Alhalabi O, Gao J, Kurnit KC, White MG, McQuade JL, Westin SN, Wellberg EA, Frigo DE. Stranger Things: New Roles and Opportunities for Androgen Receptor in Oncology Beyond Prostate Cancer. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad071. [PMID: 37154098 PMCID: PMC10413436 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) is one of the oldest therapeutic targets in oncology and continues to dominate the treatment landscape for advanced prostate cancer, where nearly all treatment regimens include some form of AR modulation. In this regard, AR remains the central driver of prostate cancer cell biology. Emerging preclinical and clinical data implicate key roles for AR in additional cancer types, thereby expanding the importance of this drug target beyond prostate cancer. In this mini-review, new roles for AR in other cancer types are discussed as well as their potential for treatment with AR-targeted agents. Our understanding of these additional functions for AR in oncology expand this receptor's potential as a therapeutic target and will help guide the development of new treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Leo
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Eleonora Dondossola
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology and the David H. Koch Center for Applied Research of Genitourinary Cancers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kaitlin J Basham
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Nathaniel R Wilson
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Omar Alhalabi
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology and the David H. Koch Center for Applied Research of Genitourinary Cancers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jianjun Gao
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology and the David H. Koch Center for Applied Research of Genitourinary Cancers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Katherine C Kurnit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Michael G White
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jennifer L McQuade
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shannon N Westin
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Wellberg
- Department of Pathology, Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, and Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Daniel E Frigo
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology and the David H. Koch Center for Applied Research of Genitourinary Cancers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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19
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Butz H, Saskői É, Krokker L, Vereczki V, Alpár A, Likó I, Tóth E, Szőcs E, Cserepes M, Nagy K, Kacskovics I, Patócs A. Context-Dependent Role of Glucocorticoid Receptor Alpha and Beta in Breast Cancer Cell Behaviour. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050784. [PMID: 36899920 PMCID: PMC10000936 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050784] [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: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. The dual role of GCs has been observed in breast cancer; however, due to many concomitant factors, GR action in cancer biology is still ambiguous. In this study, we aimed to unravel the context-dependent action of GR in breast cancer. Methods. GR expression was characterized in multiple cohorts: (1) 24,256 breast cancer specimens on the RNA level, 220 samples on the protein level and correlated with clinicopathological data; (2) oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive and -negative cell lines were used to test for the presence of ER and ligand, and the effect of the GRβ isoform following GRα and GRβ overexpression on GR action, by in vitro functional assays. Results. We found that GR expression was higher in ER- breast cancer cells compared to ER+ ones, and GR-transactivated genes were implicated mainly in cell migration. Immunohistochemistry showed mostly cytoplasmic but heterogenous staining irrespective of ER status. GRα increased cell proliferation, viability, and the migration of ER- cells. GRβ had a similar effect on breast cancer cell viability, proliferation, and migration. However, the GRβ isoform had the opposite effect depending on the presence of ER: an increased dead cell ratio was found in ER+ breast cancer cells compared to ER- ones. Interestingly, GRα and GRβ action did not depend on the presence of the ligand, suggesting the role of the "intrinsic", ligand-independent action of GR in breast cancer. Conclusions. Staining differences using different GR antibodies may be the reason behind controversial findings in the literature regarding the expression of GR protein and clinicopathological data. Therefore, caution in the interpretation of immunohistochemistry should be applied. By dissecting the effects of GRα and GRβ, we found that the presence of the GR in the context of ER had a different effect on cancer cell behaviour, but independently of ligand availability. Additionally, GR-transactivated genes are mostly involved in cell migration, which raises GR's importance in disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriett Butz
- Department of Molecular Genetics and the National Tumour Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Oncology Biobank, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
- Correspondence:
| | - Éva Saskői
- Department of Oncology Biobank, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lilla Krokker
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Viktória Vereczki
- Department of Molecular Genetics and the National Tumour Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Alán Alpár
- Department of Anatomy, Semmelweis University, H-1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - István Likó
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Erika Tóth
- Department of Pathology, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Erika Szőcs
- Department of Oncology Biobank, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mihály Cserepes
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | | | | | - Attila Patócs
- Department of Molecular Genetics and the National Tumour Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Oncology Biobank, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
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20
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Amaral C, Correia-da-Silva G, Almeida CF, Valente MJ, Varela C, Tavares-da-Silva E, Vinggaard AM, Teixeira N, Roleira FMF. An Exemestane Derivative, Oxymestane-D1, as a New Multi-Target Steroidal Aromatase Inhibitor for Estrogen Receptor-Positive (ER +) Breast Cancer: Effects on Sensitive and Resistant Cell Lines. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 28:molecules28020789. [PMID: 36677847 PMCID: PMC9865664 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28020789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Around 70-85% of all breast cancer (BC) cases are estrogen receptor-positive (ER+). The third generation of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) is the first-line treatment option for these tumors. Despite their therapeutic success, they induce several side effects and resistance, which limits their efficacy. Thus, it is crucial to search for novel, safe and more effective anti-cancer molecules. Currently, multi-target drugs are emerging, as they present higher efficacy and lower toxicity in comparison to standard options. Considering this, this work aimed to investigate the anti-cancer properties and the multi-target potential of the compound 1α,2α-epoxy-6-methylenandrost-4-ene-3,17-dione (Oxy), also designated by Oxymestane-D1, a derivative of Exemestane, which we previously synthesized and demonstrated to be a potent AI. For this purpose, it was studied for its effects on the ER+ BC cell line that overexpresses aromatase, MCF-7aro cells, as well as on the AIs-resistant BC cell line, LTEDaro cells. Oxy reduces cell viability, impairs DNA synthesis and induces apoptosis in MCF-7aro cells. Moreover, its growth-inhibitory properties are inhibited in the presence of ERα, ERβ and AR antagonists, suggesting a mechanism of action dependent on these receptors. In fact, Oxy decreased ERα expression and activation and induced AR overexpression with a pro-death effect. Complementary transactivation assays demonstrated that Oxy presents ER antagonist and AR agonist activities. In addition, Oxy also decreased the viability and caused apoptosis of LTEDaro cells. Therefore, this work highlights the discovery of a new and promising multi-target drug that, besides acting as an AI, appears to also act as an ERα antagonist and AR agonist. Thus, the multi-target action of Oxy may be a therapeutic advantage over the three AIs applied in clinic. Furthermore, this new multi-target compound has the ability to sensitize the AI-resistant BC cells, which represents another advantage over the endocrine therapy used in the clinic, since resistance is a major drawback in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Amaral
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (C.A.); (F.M.F.R.); Tel.: +351-220428560 (C.A.); +351-239488400 (F.M.F.R.); Fax: +351-226093390 (C.A.); +351-239488503 (F.M.F.R.)
| | - Georgina Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Ferreira Almeida
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria João Valente
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Carla Varela
- Univ Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIEPQPF, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Clinic Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Elisiário Tavares-da-Silva
- Univ Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anne Marie Vinggaard
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Natércia Teixeira
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernanda M. F. Roleira
- Univ Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence: (C.A.); (F.M.F.R.); Tel.: +351-220428560 (C.A.); +351-239488400 (F.M.F.R.); Fax: +351-226093390 (C.A.); +351-239488503 (F.M.F.R.)
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21
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Heng YJ, Zhang KJ, Valero MG, Baker GM, Fein-Zachary VJ, Irwig MS, Wulf GM. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast in a Transgender Man: A Case Report. Case Rep Oncol 2023; 16:811-817. [PMID: 37900827 PMCID: PMC10601725 DOI: 10.1159/000529859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
There is limited literature about breast cancer in the transgender population. Very little is known about how gender-affirming hormone therapy affects their breast cancer risk. On the other end, for those diagnosed with breast cancer, there are no clinical guidelines to manage their breast cancer, specifically, how to manage their gender-affirming hormone therapy during breast cancer treatment. Here, we report a 52-year-old transman diagnosed with a grade 2 invasive ductal carcinoma (ER+/PR+/HER2-), and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) of intermediate grade. We discussed his risk factors as well as treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing J. Heng
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kevin J. Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Monica G. Valero
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gabrielle M. Baker
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Valerie J. Fein-Zachary
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael S. Irwig
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gerburg M. Wulf
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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22
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Falato C, Schettini F, Pascual T, Brasó-Maristany F, Prat A. Clinical implications of the intrinsic molecular subtypes in hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. Cancer Treat Rev 2023; 112:102496. [PMID: 36563600 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2022.102496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Traditionally, the classification of breast cancer relies on the expression of immunohistochemical (IHC) biomarkers readily available in clinical practice. Using highly standardized and reproducible assays across patient cohorts, intrinsic molecular subtypes of breast cancer - also called "intrinsic subtypes" (IS) - have been identified based on the expression of 50 genes. Although IHC-based subgroups and IS moderately correlate to each other, they are not superimposable. In fact, non-luminal biology has been detected in a substantial proportion (5-20%) of hormone receptor-positive (HoR+) tumors, has prognostic value, and identifies reduced and increased sensitivity to endocrine therapy and chemotherapy, respectively. During tumor progression, a shift toward a non-luminal estrogen-independent and more aggressive phenotype has been demonstrated. Intrinsic genomic instability and cell plasticity, alone or combined with external constraints deriving from treatment selective pressure or interplay with the tumor microenvironment, may represent the determinants of such biological diversity between primary and metastatic disease, and during metastatic tumor evolution. In this review, we describe the distribution and the clinical behavior of IS as the disease progresses, focusing on HoR+/HER2-negative advanced breast cancer. In addition, we provide an overview of the ongoing clinical trials aiming to validate the predictive and prognostic value of IS towards their incorporation into routine care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudette Falato
- Translational Genomics and Targeted Therapies in Solid Tumors, August Pi I Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; SOLTI Cancer Research Group, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Francesco Schettini
- Translational Genomics and Targeted Therapies in Solid Tumors, August Pi I Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Tomás Pascual
- Translational Genomics and Targeted Therapies in Solid Tumors, August Pi I Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; SOLTI Cancer Research Group, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Fara Brasó-Maristany
- Translational Genomics and Targeted Therapies in Solid Tumors, August Pi I Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Aleix Prat
- Translational Genomics and Targeted Therapies in Solid Tumors, August Pi I Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Reveal Genomics, Barcelona, Spain.
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23
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Tahtamouni L, Alzghoul A, Alderfer S, Sun J, Ahram M, Prasad A, Bamburg J. The role of activated androgen receptor in cofilin phospho-regulation depends on the molecular subtype of TNBC cell line and actin assembly dynamics. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0279746. [PMID: 36584207 PMCID: PMC9803305 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is highly metastatic and of poor prognosis. Metastasis involves coordinated actin filament dynamics mediated by cofilin and associated proteins. Activated androgen receptor (AR) is believed to contribute to TNBC tumorigenesis. Our current work studied roles of activated AR and cofilin phospho-regulation during migration of three AR+ TNBC cell lines to determine if altered cofilin regulation can explain their migratory differences. Untreated or AR agonist-treated BT549, MDA-MB-453, and SUM159PT cells were compared to cells silenced for cofilin (KD) or AR expression/function (bicalutamide). Cofilin-1 was found to be the only ADF/cofilin isoform expressed in each TNBC line. Despite a significant increase in cofilin kinase caused by androgens, the ratio of cofilin:p-cofilin (1:1) did not change in SUM159PT cells. BT549 and MDA-MB-453 cells contain high p-cofilin levels which underwent androgen-induced dephosphorylation through increased cofilin phosphatase expression, but surprisingly maintain a leading-edge with high p-cofilin/total cofilin not found in SUM159PT cells. Androgens enhanced cell polarization in all lines, stimulated wound healing and transwell migration rates and increased N/E-cadherin mRNA ratios while reducing cell adhesion in BT549 and MDA-MB-453 cells. Cofilin KD negated androgen effects in MDA-MB-453 except for cell adhesion, while in BT549 cells it abrogated androgen-reduced cell adhesion. In SUM159PT cells, cofilin KD with and without androgens had similar effects in almost all processes studied. AR dependency of the processes were confirmed. In conclusion, cofilin regulation downstream of active AR is dependent on which actin-mediated process is being examined in addition to being cell line-specific. Although MDA-MB-453 cells demonstrated some control of cofilin through an AR-dependent mechanism, other AR-dependent pathways need to be further studied. Non-cofilin-dependent mechanisms that modulate migration of SUM159PT cells need to be investigated. Categorizing TNBC behavior as AR responsive and/or cofilin dependent can inform on decisions for therapeutic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubna Tahtamouni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Ahmad Alzghoul
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Sydney Alderfer
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
| | - Jiangyu Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
| | - Mamoun Ahram
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ashok Prasad
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
| | - James Bamburg
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
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24
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Chen D, Liu X, Hu C, Hao R, Wang O, Xiao Y. Radiomics-based signature of breast cancer on preoperative contrast-enhanced MRI to predict axillary metastasis. Future Oncol 2022:1-14. [PMID: 36475996 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2022-0333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to predict axillary metastasis using radiology features in dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI. Methods: This study included 243 breast lesions confirmed as malignant based on axillary status. Most outcome-predictive features were selected using four machine-learning algorithms. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to reflect diagnostic performance. Results: Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator was used to dimensionally reduce 1137 radiomics features to three features. Three optimal radiomics features were used to model construction. The logistic regression model achieved an accuracy of 97% and 85% in the training and test groups. Clinical utility was evaluated using decision curve analysis. Conclusion: The novel combination of radiomics analysis and machine-learning algorithm could predict axillary metastasis and prevent invasive manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danxiang Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Chunlei Hu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Rutian Hao
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Ouchen Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Yanling Xiao
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
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25
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Kolyvas EA, Caldas C, Kelly K, Ahmad SS. Androgen receptor function and targeted therapeutics across breast cancer subtypes. Breast Cancer Res 2022; 24:79. [PMID: 36376977 PMCID: PMC9664788 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-022-01574-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite significant progress in breast cancer (BC) therapy, it is globally the most commonly diagnosed cancer and leads to the death of over 650,000 women annually. Androgen receptor (AR) is emerging as a potential new therapeutic target in BC. While the role of AR is well established in prostate cancer (PCa), its function in BC remains incompletely understood. Emerging data show that AR's role in BC is dependent on several factors including, but not limited to, disease subtype, tumour microenvironment, and levels of circulating oestrogens and androgens. While targeting AR in PCa is becoming increasingly effective, these advances have yet to make any significant impact on the care of BC patients. However, this approach is increasingly being evaluated in BC and it is clear that improvements in our understanding of AR's role in BC will increase the likelihood of success for AR-targeted therapies. This review summarizes our current understanding of the function of AR across BC subtypes. We highlight limitations in our current knowledge and demonstrate the importance of categorizing BC subtypes effectively, in relation to determining AR activity. Further, we describe the current state of the art regarding AR-targeted approaches for BC as monotherapy or in combination with radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Kolyvas
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Department of Oncology, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK
- Laboratory of Genitourinary Cancer Pathogenesis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
- NIH-Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research and Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carlos Caldas
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Department of Oncology, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK
- Breast Cancer Programme, CRUK Cambridge Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK
- Cambridge Breast Cancer Research Unit, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre and Cambridge Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kathleen Kelly
- Laboratory of Genitourinary Cancer Pathogenesis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Saif S Ahmad
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Department of Oncology, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK.
- Department of Oncology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SP, UK.
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26
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Ors A, Chitsazan AD, Doe AR, Mulqueen RM, Ak C, Wen Y, Haverlack S, Handu M, Naldiga S, Saldivar J, Mohammed H. Estrogen regulates divergent transcriptional and epigenetic cell states in breast cancer. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:11492-11508. [PMID: 36318267 PMCID: PMC9723652 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancers are known to be driven by the transcription factor estrogen receptor and its ligand estrogen. While the receptor's cis-binding elements are known to vary between tumors, heterogeneity of hormone signaling at a single-cell level is unknown. In this study, we systematically tracked estrogen response across time at a single-cell level in multiple cell line and organoid models. To accurately model these changes, we developed a computational tool (TITAN) that quantifies signaling gradients in single-cell datasets. Using this approach, we found that gene expression response to estrogen is non-uniform, with distinct cell groups expressing divergent transcriptional networks. Pathway analysis suggested the two most distinct signatures are driven separately by ER and FOXM1. We observed that FOXM1 was indeed activated by phosphorylation upon estrogen stimulation and silencing of FOXM1 attenuated the relevant gene signature. Analysis of scRNA-seq data from patient samples confirmed the existence of these divergent cell groups, with the FOXM1 signature predominantly found in ER negative cells. Further, multi-omic single-cell experiments indicated that the different cell groups have distinct chromatin accessibility states. Our results provide a comprehensive insight into ER biology at the single-cell level and potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate resistance to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aaron Reid Doe
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Ryan M Mulqueen
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Cigdem Ak
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Yahong Wen
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Syber Haverlack
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Mithila Handu
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Spandana Naldiga
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Joshua C Saldivar
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA,Division of Oncological Sciences, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
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27
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Racial Disparity in Quadruple Negative Breast Cancer: Aggressive Biology and Potential Therapeutic Targeting and Prevention. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184484. [PMID: 36139643 PMCID: PMC9497140 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Quadruple negative breast cancer (QNBC), a subgroup of triple negative BC, has emerged as a highly aggressive BC subtype that disproportionately afflicts and impacts Black/African-American (AA) women. In this article, we review molecular distinctions in Black/AA and White/European-American (EA) QNBC biology as well as address potential non-genetic risk factors that could be underlying this racially disparate burden. We aim to provide deeper insight and provide a framework for novel discovery of actionable therapeutic targets and identify lifestyle changes to improve outcomes for Black/AA QNBC patients. Abstract Black/African-American (AA) women, relative to their White/European-American (EA) counterparts, experience disproportionately high breast cancer mortality. Central to this survival disparity, Black/AA women have an unequal burden of aggressive breast cancer subtypes, such as triple-negative breast cancer (ER/PR-, HER2-wild type; TNBC). While TNBC has been well characterized, recent studies have identified a highly aggressive androgen receptor (AR)-negative subtype of TNBC, quadruple-negative breast cancer (ER/PR-, HER2-wildtype, AR-; QNBC). Similar to TNBC, QNBC disproportionately impacts Black/AA women and likely plays an important role in the breast cancer survival disparities experienced by Black/AA women. Here, we discuss the racial disparities of QNBC and molecular signaling pathways that may contribute to the aggressive biology of QNBC in Black/AA women. Our immediate goal is to spotlight potential prevention and therapeutic targets for Black/AA QNBC; ultimately our goal is to provide greater insight into reducing the breast cancer survival burden experienced by Black/AA women.
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28
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Alyami BA, Ejaz I, Mahnashi MH, Alqahtani YS, Alqarni AO, Saeed Jan M, Sadiq A, Rashid U. Design, synthesis, antiproliferative activity, estrogen receptors binding affinity of C-3 pregnenolone-dihydropyrimidine derivatives for the treatment of breast cancer. Steroids 2022; 185:109059. [PMID: 35679910 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2022.109059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BCa) is very common malignancy and globally, has become the second leading cause of cancer death among women. For the treatment of BCa, estrogen receptors-alpha (ERα) has proven to be a therapeutic target. In continuation of our previous reported dihydropyrimidine-based pregnenolone derivatives, we modified at C-3 hydroxyl group. Structural architecture of estrogen receptors (ER) with excellent ER binding affinity was used for modification. MTT assay was used to evaluate the synthesized steroidal analogs for their antiproliferative activities against ER-positive MCF-7, ER-negative MDA-MB-231 (ER-) breast cancer cells and non-cancerous HEK-293 cells. Structure activity relationship (SAR) studies revealed that diethanolamine containing pregnenolone derivatives showed significant cytotoxicity against ER + MCF-7 and also showed good binding affinity with ERα and are relatively safe against HEK-293 cell model. Docking studies demonstrated that high binding affinity of diethanolamine analogs is due to their binding interaction with key amino acid residues present in the binding site of Erα.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bandar A Alyami
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Iqra Ejaz
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, 22060 Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Mater H Mahnashi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Yahya S Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali O Alqarni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abdul Sadiq
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Malakand, Chakdara 18000 Dir (L), KP, Pakistan
| | - Umer Rashid
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, 22060 Abbottabad, Pakistan.
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29
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LIU J, LEUNG CT, LIANG L, WANG Y, CHEN J, LAI KP, TSE WKF. Deubiquitinases in Cancers: Aspects of Proliferation, Metastasis, and Apoptosis. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143547. [PMID: 35884607 PMCID: PMC9323628 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review summarizes the current DUBs findings that correlate with the most common cancers in the world (liver, breast, prostate, colorectal, pancreatic, and lung cancers). The DUBs were further classified by their biological functions in terms of proliferation, metastasis, and apoptosis. The work provides an updated of the current findings, and could be used as a quick guide for researchers to identify target DUBs in cancers. Abstract Deubiquitinases (DUBs) deconjugate ubiquitin (UBQ) from ubiquitylated substrates to regulate its activity and stability. They are involved in several cellular functions. In addition to the general biological regulation of normal cells, studies have demonstrated their critical roles in various cancers. In this review, we evaluated and grouped the biological roles of DUBs, including proliferation, metastasis, and apoptosis, in the most common cancers in the world (liver, breast, prostate, colorectal, pancreatic, and lung cancers). The current findings in these cancers are summarized, and the relevant mechanisms and relationship between DUBs and cancers are discussed. In addition to highlighting the importance of DUBs in cancer biology, this study also provides updated information on the roles of DUBs in different types of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi LIU
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541004, China; (J.L.); (L.L.); (Y.W.); (K.P.L.)
| | - Chi Tim LEUNG
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Luyun LIANG
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541004, China; (J.L.); (L.L.); (Y.W.); (K.P.L.)
| | - Yuqin WANG
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541004, China; (J.L.); (L.L.); (Y.W.); (K.P.L.)
| | - Jian CHEN
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Microenvironmental Regulation, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541004, China
- Correspondence: (J.C.); (W.K.F.T.); Tel.: +86-773-5895860 (J.C.); +81-92-802-4767 (W.K.F.T.)
| | - Keng Po LAI
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541004, China; (J.L.); (L.L.); (Y.W.); (K.P.L.)
| | - William Ka Fai TSE
- Laboratory of Developmental Disorders and Toxicology, Center for Promotion of International Education and Research, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
- Correspondence: (J.C.); (W.K.F.T.); Tel.: +86-773-5895860 (J.C.); +81-92-802-4767 (W.K.F.T.)
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Li K, Zong D, Sun J, Chen D, Ma M, Jia L. Rewiring of the Endocrine Network in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:830894. [PMID: 35847875 PMCID: PMC9280148 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.830894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunohistochemical definition of estrogen/progesterone receptors dictates endocrine feasibility in the treatment course of breast cancer. Characterized by the deficiency of estrogen receptor α, ERα-negative breast cancers are dissociated from any endocrine regimens in the routine clinical setting, triple-negative breast cancer in particular. However, the stereotype was challenged by triple-negative breast cancers’ retained sensitivity and vulnerability to endocrine agents. The interplay of hormone action and the carcinogenic signaling program previously underscored was gradually recognized along with the increasing investigation. In parallel, the overlooked endocrine-responsiveness in ERα-negative breast cancers attracted attention and supplied fresh insight into the therapeutic strategy in an ERα-independent manner. This review elaborates on the genomic and non-genomic steroid hormone actions and endocrine-related signals in triple-negative breast cancers attached to the hormone insensitivity label. We also shed light on the non-canonical mechanism detected in common hormone agents to showcase their pleiotropic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaixuan Li
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Oncology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jianrong Sun
- School of Clinical Medicine. Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Danxiang Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Minkai Ma
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Oncology, The Fourth Central Hospital, Baoding, China
| | - Liqun Jia
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Oncology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Liqun Jia,
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Dong S, Yousefi H, Savage IV, Okpechi SC, Wright MK, Matossian MD, Collins-Burow BM, Burow ME, Alahari SK. Ceritinib is a novel triple negative breast cancer therapeutic agent. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:138. [PMID: 35768871 PMCID: PMC9241294 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01601-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are clinically aggressive subtypes of breast cancer. TNBC is difficult to treat with targeted agents due to the lack of commonly targeted therapies within this subtype. Androgen receptor (AR) has been detected in 12–55% of TNBCs. AR stimulates breast tumor growth in the absence of estrogen receptor (ER), and it has become an emerging molecular target in TNBC treatment. Methods Ceritinib is a small molecule inhibitor of tyrosine kinase and it is used in the therapy of non-small lung cancer patients. Enzalutamide is a small molecule compound targeting the androgen receptor and it is used to treat prostate cancer. Combination therapy of these drugs were investigated using AR positive breast cancer mouse xenograft models. Also, combination treatment of ceritinib and paclitaxel investigated using AR− and AR low mouse xenograft and patient derived xenograft models. Results We screened 133 FDA approved drugs that have a therapeutic effect of AR+ TNBC cells. From the screen, we identified two drugs, ceritinib and crizotinib. Since ceritinib has a well- defined role in androgen independent AR signaling pathways, we further investigated the effect of ceritinib. Ceritinib treatment inhibited RTK/ACK/AR pathway and other downstream pathways in AR+ TNBC cells. The combination of ceritinib and enzalutamide showed a robust inhibitory effect on cell growth of AR+ TNBC cells in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly Ceritinib inhibits FAK-YB-1 signaling pathway that leads to paclitaxel resistance in all types of TNBC cells. The combination of paclitaxel and ceritinib showed drastic inhibition of tumor growth compared to a single drug alone. Conclusions To improve the response of AR antagonist in AR positive TNBC, we designed a novel combinational strategy comprised of enzalutamide and ceritinib to treat AR+ TNBC tumors through the dual blockade of androgen-dependent and androgen-independent AR signaling pathways. Furthermore, we introduced a novel therapeutic combination of ceritinib and paclitaxel for AR negative or AR-low TNBCs and this combination inhibited tumor growth to a great extent. All agents used in our study are FDA-approved, and thus the proposed combination therapy will likely be useful in the clinic. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12943-022-01601-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengli Dong
- TYK Medicines, Inc, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China, 313100.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, LSUHSC School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Hassan Yousefi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, LSUHSC School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | | | - Samuel C Okpechi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, LSUHSC School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Maryl K Wright
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, 70118, USA
| | | | | | - Matthew E Burow
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, 70118, USA
| | - Suresh K Alahari
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, LSUHSC School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA. .,Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, LSUHSC School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
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Chen L, Liu Y, Cai J, Ji Z, Zou J, Chen Y, Wu J, Zheng D, Zheng J, Chen Y, Li Z. Global Trends in Research of Androgen Receptor Associated With Breast Cancer From 2011 to 2020: A Scientometric Analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:887612. [PMID: 35800434 PMCID: PMC9253269 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.887612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, the androgen receptor has been found as a potential prognostic index and therapeutic target for breast cancer. To reveal the current research status and hotspots in this area, we analyzed the characteristics of related publications from 2011 to 2020. All related publications from 2011 to 2020 were retrieved from the Web of Science. Biblioshiny, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace V were applied to obtain the information on annual publications and citations, the highest yielding countries and authors, influential journals and articles, as well as hot keywords. In total, 2,118 documents, including 1,584 original articles and 534 reviews, were retrieved. Annual publication output was rich from 2014 to 2018, reaching the top in 2017. A systematic review written by Lehman et al. in 2011 was the most-cited document and reference. The United States was the leading country with the maximum number of publications, citations, and link strengths with other countries. The journal publishing the most was Oncotarget. Lehmann was the author who had the highest link strengths with other authors. The most highlighted keywords were "androgen receptor" (n = 1,209), "breast cancer" (n = 690), "expression" (n = 545), "breast cancer" (n = 410), "prostate cancer" (n = 290), and so on, revealing the trend from molecular mechanism level to therapeutic use level. The androgen receptor plays a significant role in the development of breast cancers, whereas its therapeutic value seems to be controversial and needs further study. With the help of a scientometric analysis in this field, researchers can clarify the current research status and hotspots worth fully exploring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingzhi Chen
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yiyuan Liu
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Jiehui Cai
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Zeqi Ji
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Breast Disease Research Center, Medical Research Institute of Shantou Doctoral Association, Shantou, China
| | - Juan Zou
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Breast Disease Research Center, Medical Research Institute of Shantou Doctoral Association, Shantou, China
| | - Yaokun Chen
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Breast Disease Research Center, Medical Research Institute of Shantou Doctoral Association, Shantou, China
| | - Jinyao Wu
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Breast Disease Research Center, Medical Research Institute of Shantou Doctoral Association, Shantou, China
| | - Daitian Zheng
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Breast Disease Research Center, Medical Research Institute of Shantou Doctoral Association, Shantou, China
| | - Jiehua Zheng
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yexi Chen
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Zhiyang Li
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
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Transcriptome profiling and proteomic validation reveals targets of the androgen receptor signaling in the BT-474 breast cancer cell line. Clin Proteomics 2022; 19:14. [PMID: 35568821 PMCID: PMC9107748 DOI: 10.1186/s12014-022-09352-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence suggests that the androgen receptor (AR) and its endogenous ligands influence disease progression in breast cancer (BCa). However, AR-mediated changes in BCa differ among the various BCa subtypes according to their hormone receptor profile [i.e., presence/absence of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, (HER2)]. Thus, we explored the androgen-regulated transcriptomic changes in the ER+PR+HER2+ BCa cell line, BT-474, and compared them with PR-mediated changes. METHODS We performed RNA sequencing analysis in treated BT-474 cells with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and progesterone. Validation of the top ten differentially androgen-regulated genes and a number of other genes found in enriched signaling pathways was performed by qRT-PCR in BT-474 and other BCa cell lines. In addition, a parallel reaction monitoring targeted proteomic approach was developed to verify selected transcripts at the protein level. RESULTS In total 19,450 transcripts were detected, of which 224 were differentially regulated after DHT treatment. The increased expression of two well-known androgen-regulated genes, KLK2 (p < 0.05) and KLK3 (p < 0.001), confirmed the successful androgen stimulation in BT-474 cells. The transcription factor, ZBTB16, was the most highly upregulated gene, with ~ 1000-fold change (p < 0.001). Pathway enrichment analysis revealed downregulation of the DNA replication processes (p < 0.05) and upregulation of the androgen signaling and fatty acid metabolism pathways (p < 0.05). Changes related to progesterone treatment showed opposite effects in gene expression than DHT treatment. Similar expression profiles were observed among other BCa cell lines expressing high levels of AR (ZR75.1 and MBA-MB-453). The parallel reaction monitoring targeted proteomic analysis further confirmed that altered protein expression (KLK3, ALOX15B) in the supernatant and cell lysate of DHT-treated BT-474 cells, compared to control cells. DISCUSSION Our findings suggest that AR modulates the metabolism of BT-474 cells by affecting the expression of a large number of genes and proteins. Based on further pathway analysis, we suggest that androgen receptor acts as a tumor suppressor in the BT-474 cells.
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Prognostic Role of Androgen Receptor Expression in HER2+ Breast Carcinoma Subtypes. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10010164. [PMID: 35052843 PMCID: PMC8773834 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
HER2+ breast cancer (BC) is an aggressive subtype representing a genetically and biologically heterogeneous group of tumors resulting in variable prognosis and treatment response to HER2-targeted therapies according to estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) expression. The relationship with androgen receptors (AR), a member of the steroid hormone’s family, is unwell known in BC. The present study aims to evaluate the prognostic impact of AR expression in HER2+ BC subtypes. A total of 695 BCs were selected and reviewed, AR, ER, PR and HER2 expression in tumor cells were examined by immunohistochemical method, and the SISH method was used in case of HER2 with equivocal immunohistochemical score (2+). A high prevalence of AR expression (91.5%) in BC HER+ was observed, with minimal differences between luminal and non-luminal tumor. According to steroid receptor expression, tumors were classified in four subgroups, including BC luminal and non-luminal HER2+ expressing or not AR. The luminal BC HER2 + AR+ was associated with lower histological grade, lower tumor size, higher PR expression and lower HER2 intensity of expression (2+). Also, the non-luminal tumors AR+ showed lower tumor size and lower prognostic stage but frequently higher grade and higher HER2 intensity of expression (3+). These findings should suggest a different progression of luminal and non-luminal tumors, both expressing AR, and allow us to speculate that the molecular mechanisms of AR, involved in the biology of BC HER2 + AR+, differ in relation to ER and PR expression. Moreover, AR expression may be a useful predictor of prognosis for overall survival (OS) in HER2+ BC subtypes. Our findings suggest that AR expression evaluation in clinical practice could be utilized in clinical oncology to establish different aggressiveness in BC HER2+ subtypes.
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Phung HT, Nguyen CV, Mai NT, Vu HTN, Pham KH, Tran GL. Impact of Androgen Receptor Expression and the AR:ER Ratio on the Survival Outcomes in the Diverse Subgroups of Vietnamese Breast Cancer: A Single Institutional Retrospective Cohort Analysis. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2022; 21:15330338221080941. [PMID: 35379053 PMCID: PMC8988687 DOI: 10.1177/15330338221080941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The androgen receptor (AR) has recently emerged as a useful marker for the more favorable prognosis and better outcomes among women with estrogen receptor (ER) + ve breast cancer (BC) and the further refinement of BC subtype. Furthermore, AR expression in ER − ve tumors has a particular prognostic significance. Additionally, the ratio of nuclear AR to ER may critically have an influence on tumor biology and respond to endocrine therapy. Purpose: To define the AR expression and AR:ER ratio, and explored their correlation with the clinicopathological features, prognosis, and survival outcomes in the various subclasses of invasive BC. Methods: The current study was conducted on 522 BC patients who had surgical operations, without neoadjuvant chemotherapy by applying a retrospective cohort analysis. The clinicopathological characteristics were recorded. Immunohistochemical staining was performed on AR, ER, PR, HER2, and Ki67. Expression of AR was paired into different immunophenotypes for analysis with clinicopathological features and survival. All BC patients’ survival was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier and log-rank models. Results: The presence of AR was detected in 65.3%. Positive AR, the ratio of AR:ER<2, luminal androgen receptor (LAR) + and AR + HER2 + immunophenotypes were significantly associated with better prognostic features. AR:ER<2 was observed in the prolonged overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) (87.9 and 86.2%, respectively) compared to AR:ER≥2 (25.0% in both) (P < .001). In contrast, in HR + ve BCs, the AR expression was not significantly correlated with survival. The multivariate model revealed that the ratio of nuclear AR to ER remained as an independent prognostic variable. Conclusion: The AR expression had a distinct OS and DFS. The AR:ER ratio is an independent indicator for predicting the OS and DFS of BC patients in both univariate and multivariate analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chu Van Nguyen
- National Cancer Hospital, Vietnam.,Hanoi Medical University, Vietnam
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Butz H, Patócs A. Mechanisms behind context-dependent role of glucocorticoids in breast cancer progression. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 41:803-832. [PMID: 35761157 PMCID: PMC9758252 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10047-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs), mostly dexamethasone (dex), are routinely administered as adjuvant therapy to manage side effects in breast cancer. However, recently, it has been revealed that dex triggers different effects and correlates with opposite outcomes depending on the breast cancer molecular subtype. This has raised new concerns regarding the generalized use of GC and suggested that the context-dependent effects of GCs can be taken into potential consideration during treatment design. Based on this, attention has recently been drawn to the role of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in development and progression of breast cancer. Therefore, in this comprehensive review, we aimed to summarize the different mechanisms behind different context-dependent GC actions in breast cancer by applying a multilevel examination, starting from the association of variants of the GR-encoding gene to expression at the mRNA and protein level of the receptor, and its interactions with other factors influencing GC action in breast cancer. The role of GCs in chemosensitivity and chemoresistance observed during breast cancer therapy is discussed. In addition, experiences using GC targeting therapeutic options (already used and investigated in preclinical and clinical trials), such as classic GC dexamethasone, selective glucocorticoid receptor agonists and modulators, the GC antagonist mifepristone, and GR coregulators, are also summarized. Evidence presented can aid a better understanding of the biology of context-dependent GC action that can lead to further advances in the personalized therapy of breast cancer by the evaluation of GR along with the conventional estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) in the routine diagnostic procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriett Butz
- Department of Molecular Genetics and the National Tumor Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences-Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Attila Patócs
- Department of Molecular Genetics and the National Tumor Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences-Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Ravaioli S, Maltoni R, Pasculli B, Parrella P, Giudetti AM, Vergara D, Tumedei MM, Pirini F, Bravaccini S. Androgen receptor in breast cancer: The "5W" questions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:977331. [PMID: 36111296 PMCID: PMC9468319 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.977331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen receptor (AR) is expressed in 60-70% of breast cancers (BCs) and the availability of anti-AR compounds, currently used for treating prostate cancer, paves the way to tackle specifically AR-positive BC patients. The prognostic and predictive role of AR in BC is a matter of debate, since the results from clinical trials are not striking, probably due to both technical and biological reasons. In this review, we aimed to highlight WHAT is AR, describing its structure and functions, WHAT to test and HOW to detect AR, WHERE AR should be tested (on primary tumor or metastasis) and WHY studying this fascinating hormone receptor, exploring and debating on its prognostic and predictive role. We considered AR and its ratio with other hormone receptors, analyzing also studies including patients with ductal carcinoma in situ and with early and advanced BC, as well. We also emphasized the effects that both other hormone receptors and the newly emerging androgen-inducible non coding RNAs may have on AR function in BC pathology and the putative implementation in the clinical setting. Moreover, we pointed out the latest results by clinical trials and we speculated about the use of anti-AR therapies in BC clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ravaioli
- IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
- *Correspondence: Sara Ravaioli,
| | - Roberta Maltoni
- IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Barbara Pasculli
- Laboratorio di Oncologia, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Paola Parrella
- Laboratorio di Oncologia, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Giudetti
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Daniele Vergara
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Pirini
- IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Sara Bravaccini
- IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
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The Other Side of the Coin: May Androgens Have a Role in Breast Cancer Risk? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010424. [PMID: 35008851 PMCID: PMC8745651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer prevention is a major challenge worldwide. During the last few years, efforts have been made to identify molecular breast tissue factors that could be linked to an increased risk of developing the disease in healthy women. In this concern, steroid hormones and their receptors are key players since they are deeply involved in the growth, development and lifetime changes of the mammary gland and play a crucial role in breast cancer development and progression. In particular, androgens, by binding their own receptor, seem to exert a dichotomous effect, as they reduce cell proliferation in estrogen receptor α positive (ERα+) breast cancers while promoting tumour growth in the ERα negative ones. Despite this intricate role in cancer, very little is known about the impact of androgen receptor (AR)-mediated signalling on normal breast tissue and its correlation to breast cancer risk factors. Through an accurate collection of experimental and epidemiological studies, this review aims to elucidate whether androgens might influence the susceptibility for breast cancer. Moreover, the possibility to exploit the AR as a useful marker to predict the disease will be also evaluated.
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Morimont L, Haguet H, Dogné JM, Gaspard U, Douxfils J. Combined Oral Contraceptives and Venous Thromboembolism: Review and Perspective to Mitigate the Risk. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:769187. [PMID: 34956081 PMCID: PMC8697849 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.769187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Many factors must be considered and discussed with women when initiating a contraceptive method and the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is one of them. In this review, we discuss the numerous strategies that have been implemented to reduce the thrombotic risk associated with combined oral contraceptives (COCs) from their arrival on the market until today. Evidences suggesting that COCs were associated with an increased risk of VTE appeared rapidly after their marketing. Identified as the main contributor of this risk, the dosage of the estrogen, i.e., ethinylestradiol (EE), was significantly reduced. New progestins were also synthetized (e.g., desogestrel or gestodene) but their weak androgenic activity did not permit to counterbalance the effect of EE as did the initial progestins such as levonorgestrel. Numerous studies assessed the impact of estroprogestative combinations on hemostasis and demonstrated that women under COC suffered from resistance towards activated protein C (APC). Subsequently, the European Medicines Agency updated its guidelines on clinical investigation of steroid contraceptives in which they recommended to assess this biological marker. In 2009, estradiol-containing COCs were marketed and the use of this natural form of estrogen was found to exert a weaker effect on the synthesis of hepatic proteins compared to EE. In this year 2021, a novel COC based on a native estrogen, i.e., estetrol, will be introduced on the market. Associated with drospirenone, this preparation demonstrated minor effects on coagulation proteins as compared with other drospirenone-containing COCs. At the present time, the standard of care when starting a contraception, consists of identifying the presence of hereditary thrombophilia solely on the basis of familial history of VTE. This strategy has however been reported as poorly predictive of hereditary thrombophilia. One rationale and affordable perspective which has already been considered in the past could be the implementation of a baseline screening of the prothrombotic state to provide health care professionals with objective data to support the prescription of the more appropriate contraceptive method. While this strategy was judged too expensive due to limited laboratory solutions, the endogenous thrombin potential-based APC resistance assay could now represent an interesting alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laure Morimont
- Research Department, Qualiblood s.a., Namur, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacy, Namur Research Institute for Life Sciences (NARILIS), Namur Thrombosis and Hemostasis Center (NTHC), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Hélène Haguet
- Research Department, Qualiblood s.a., Namur, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacy, Namur Research Institute for Life Sciences (NARILIS), Namur Thrombosis and Hemostasis Center (NTHC), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | | | - Ulysse Gaspard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Jonathan Douxfils
- Research Department, Qualiblood s.a., Namur, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacy, Namur Research Institute for Life Sciences (NARILIS), Namur Thrombosis and Hemostasis Center (NTHC), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
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Cara AL, Henson EL, Beekly BG, Elias CF. Distribution of androgen receptor mRNA in the prepubertal male and female mouse brain. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e13063. [PMID: 34866263 PMCID: PMC8711114 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Androgens are steroid hormones that play a critical role in brain development and sexual maturation by acting upon both androgen receptors (AR) and estrogen receptors (ERα/β) after aromatization. The contribution of estrogens from aromatized androgens in brain development and the central regulation of metabolism, reproduction, and behavior is well defined, but the role of androgens acting on AR has been unappreciated. Here, we map the sex specific expression of Ar in the adult and developing mouse brain. Postnatal days (PND) 12 and 21 were used to target a critical window of prepubertal development. Consistent with previous literature in adults, sex-specific differences in Ar expression were most profound in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST), medial amygdala (MEA) and medial preoptic area (MPO). Ar expression was also high in these areas at PND 12 and 21 in both sexes. In addition, we describe extra-hypothalamic and extra-limbic areas that show moderate, consistent and similar Ar expression in both sexes at both prepubertal time points. Briefly, Ar expression was observed in olfactory areas of the cerebral cortex, the hippocampus, several thalamic nuclei, and cranial nerve nuclei involved in autonomic sensory and motor function. To further characterize forebrain populations of Ar expressing neurons and determine whether they also coexpress estrogen receptors, we examined expression of Ar, Esr1 and Esr2 in prepubertal mice in selected nuclei. We found populations of neurons in the BST, MEA and MPO that coexpress Ar, but not Esr1 or Esr2, whereas others express a combination of the three receptors. Our findings indicate that various brain areas express Ar during prepubertal development and may play an important role in female neuronal development and physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra L. Cara
- Department of Molecular & Integrative PhysiologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
| | - Emily L. Henson
- Department of Molecular & Integrative PhysiologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
| | | | - Carol F. Elias
- Department of Molecular & Integrative PhysiologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
- Neuroscience Graduate ProgramUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
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Ruiz TFR, Colleta SJ, Zuccari DAPDC, Vilamaior PSL, Leonel ECR, Taboga SR. Hormone receptor expression in aging mammary tissue and carcinoma from a rodent model after xenoestrogen disruption. Life Sci 2021; 285:120010. [PMID: 34606849 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Hormone receptors are the main markers applied for prognosis of breast cancer subtypes. Among modulators, exogenous chemical agents known as endocrine disruptors interact with certain receptors, triggering molecular pathways or increasing their expression. Bisphenol A (BPA), a xenoestrogen, interacts with several hormone receptors. Thus, our aim was to characterize the hormone receptor status in the mammary gland (MG) of aged female Mongolian gerbils exposed to BPA in pregnancy and lactation. METHODS We evaluated the expression of receptors for estrogens (ERα and ERβ), progesterone (PR), prolactin (PRL-R), HER2/ErbB2, and androgen (AR) in normal and hyperplastic mammary tissue and in carcinomas developed after BPA exposure. KEY FINDINGS BPA-exposed MG presented increased ERα, whereas ERβ, PR, and PRL-R showed lower expression. AR and HER2/ErbB2 showed similar expression in normal and hyperplastic tissue from control, vehicle, and BPA groups. Both receptors were found in cytoplasm and nucleus in BPA-induced carcinoma. We demonstrate the presence of EZH2 expression, an epigenetic and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker, with a high H-score in BPA-exposed MG, which was associated with poor prognosis of cancer. Co-localization of ERα and EZH2 was present in normal and carcinoma features, corroborating the installation of ERα-positive mammary cancer associated with the EMT process. Enhanced EZH2 in BPA-exposed mammary tissue could decrease ERβ expression and promote tumorigenesis progress through HER2/ErbB2. SIGNIFICANCE The present study proposes the Mongolian gerbil as an experimental model for mammary carcinogenesis studies, based on BPA disruption that triggers a phenotype of increased ERα/HER2 positivity and depletion of ERβ/PR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thalles Fernando Rocha Ruiz
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Simone Jacovaci Colleta
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Patrícia Simone Leite Vilamaior
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ellen Cristina Rivas Leonel
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences (ICB III), Federal University of Goiás (UFG), Avenida Esperança, s/n, Campus Samambaia, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Sebastião Roberto Taboga
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Hanamura T, Christenson JL, O'Neill KI, Rosas E, Spoelstra NS, Williams MM, Richer JK. Secreted indicators of androgen receptor activity in breast cancer pre-clinical models. Breast Cancer Res 2021; 23:102. [PMID: 34736512 PMCID: PMC8567567 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-021-01478-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Accumulating evidence has attracted attention to the androgen receptor (AR) as a biomarker and therapeutic target in breast cancer. We hypothesized that AR activity within the tumor has clinical implications and investigated whether androgen responsive serum factors might serve as a minimally invasive indicator of tumor AR activity. METHODS Based on a comprehensive gene expression analysis of an AR-positive, triple negative breast cancer patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model, 163 dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-responsive genes were defined as an androgen responsive gene set. Among them, we focused on genes that were DHT-responsive that encode secreted proteins, namely KLK3, AZGP1 and PIP, that encode the secreted factors prostate specific antigen (PSA), zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein (ZAG) and prolactin induced protein (PIP), respectively. Using AR-positive breast cancer cell lines representing all breast cancer subtypes, expression of candidate factors was assessed in response to agonist DHT and antagonist enzalutamide. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed on publically available gene expression datasets from breast cancer patients to analyze the relationship between genes encoding the secreted factors and other androgen responsive gene sets in each breast cancer subtype. RESULTS Anti-androgen treatment decreased proliferation in all cell lines tested representing various tumor subtypes. Expression of the secreted factors was regulated by AR activation in the majority of breast cancer cell lines. In GSEA, the candidate genes were positively correlated with an androgen responsive gene set across breast cancer subtypes. CONCLUSION KLK3, AZGP1 and PIP are AR regulated and reflect tumor AR activity. Further investigations are needed to examine the potential efficacy of these factors as serum biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toru Hanamura
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E. 19th Ave., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Jessica L Christenson
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E. 19th Ave., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kathleen I O'Neill
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E. 19th Ave., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Emmanuel Rosas
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E. 19th Ave., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Nicole S Spoelstra
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E. 19th Ave., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Michelle M Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E. 19th Ave., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Jennifer K Richer
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E. 19th Ave., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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Augusto TV, Amaral C, Almeida CF, Teixeira N, Correia-da-Silva G. Differential biological effects of aromatase inhibitors: Apoptosis, autophagy, senescence and modulation of the hormonal status in breast cancer cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 537:111426. [PMID: 34391846 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast carcinomas are the most common subtype, corresponding to 60% of the cases in premenopausal and 75% in postmenopausal women. The third-generation of aromatase inhibitors (AIs), the non-steroidal Anastrozole (Ana) and Letrozole (Let) and the steroidal Exemestane (Exe), are considered a first-line endocrine therapy for postmenopausal women. Despite their clinical success, the development of resistance is the major setback in clinical practice. Nevertheless, the lack of cross-resistance between AIs hints that these drugs may act through distinct mechanisms. Therefore, this work studied the different effects induced by AIs on biological processes, such as cell proliferation, death, autophagy and senescence. Moreover, their effects on the regulation of the hormonal environment were also explored. The non-steroidal AIs induce senescence, through increased YPEL3 expression, on aromatase-overexpressing breast cancer cells (MCF-7aro), whereas Exe promotes a cytoprotective autophagy, thus blocking senescence induction. In addition, in a hormone-enriched environment, the non-steroidal AIs prevent estrogen signaling, despite up-regulating the estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), while Exe down-regulates ERα and maintains its activation. In these conditions, all AIs up-regulate the androgen receptor (AR) which blocks EGR3 transcription in Exe-treated cells. On the other hand, in hormone-depleted conditions, a crosstalk between AR and ERα occurs, enhancing the estrogenic effects of Exe. This indicates that Exe modulates both ERα and AR, while Ana and Let act as pure AIs. Thus, this study highlights the potential clinical benefit of combining AR antagonists with Exe and discourages the sequential use of Exe as second-line therapy in postmenopausal breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago V Augusto
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira N° 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Amaral
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira N° 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina F Almeida
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira N° 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Natércia Teixeira
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira N° 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Georgina Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira N° 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
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Nelson AT, Wang Y, Nelson ER. TLX, an Orphan Nuclear Receptor With Emerging Roles in Physiology and Disease. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6360449. [PMID: 34463725 PMCID: PMC8462384 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
TLX (NR2E1), an orphan member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, is a transcription factor that has been described to be generally repressive in nature. It has been implicated in several aspects of physiology and disease. TLX is best known for its ability to regulate the proliferation of neural stem cells and retinal progenitor cells. Dysregulation, overexpression, or loss of TLX expression has been characterized in numerous studies focused on a diverse range of pathological conditions, including abnormal brain development, psychiatric disorders, retinopathies, metabolic disease, and malignant neoplasm. Despite the lack of an identified endogenous ligand, several studies have described putative synthetic and natural TLX ligands, suggesting that this receptor may serve as a therapeutic target. Therefore, this article aims to briefly review what is known about TLX structure and function in normal physiology, and provide an overview of TLX in regard to pathological conditions. Particular emphasis is placed on TLX and cancer, and the potential utility of this receptor as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam T Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Erik R Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People Theme, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Correspondence: Erik R. Nelson, PhD, Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 407 S Goodwin Ave (MC-114), Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
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Seachrist DD, Anstine LJ, Keri RA. FOXA1: A Pioneer of Nuclear Receptor Action in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205205. [PMID: 34680352 PMCID: PMC8533709 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The pioneering function of FOXA1 establishes estrogen-responsive transcriptomes in luminal breast cancer. Dysregulated FOXA1 chromatin occupancy through focal amplification, mutation, or cofactor recruitment modulates estrogen receptor (ER) transcriptional programs and drives endocrine-resistant disease. However, ER is not the sole nuclear receptor (NR) expressed in breast cancers, nor is it the only NR for which FOXA1 serves as a licensing factor. Receptors for androgens, glucocorticoids, and progesterone are also found in the majority of breast cancers, and their functions are also impacted by FOXA1. These NRs interface with ER transcriptional programs and, depending on their activation level, can reprogram FOXA1-ER cistromes. Thus, NR interplay contributes to endocrine therapy response and resistance and may provide a vulnerability for future therapeutic benefit in patients. Herein, we review what is known regarding FOXA1 regulation of NR function in breast cancer in the context of cell identity, endocrine resistance, and NR crosstalk in breast cancer progression and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darcie D. Seachrist
- Department of Cancer Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA;
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
| | - Lindsey J. Anstine
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Ruth A. Keri
- Department of Cancer Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA;
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Department of Cancer Biology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Correspondence:
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Kumar S, Freelander A, Lim E. Type 1 Nuclear Receptor Activity in Breast Cancer: Translating Preclinical Insights to the Clinic. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4972. [PMID: 34638457 PMCID: PMC8507977 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear receptor (NR) family of transcription factors is intimately associated with the development, progression and treatment of breast cancer. They are used diagnostically and prognostically, and crosstalk between nuclear receptor pathways and growth factor signalling has been demonstrated in all major subtypes of breast cancer. The majority of breast cancers are driven by estrogen receptor α (ER), and anti-estrogenic therapies remain the backbone of treatment, leading to clinically impactful improvements in patient outcomes. This serves as a blueprint for the development of therapies targeting other nuclear receptors. More recently, pivotal findings into modulating the progesterone (PR) and androgen receptors (AR), with accompanying mechanistic insights into NR crosstalk and interactions with other proliferative pathways, have led to clinical trials in all of the major breast cancer subtypes. A growing body of evidence now supports targeting other Type 1 nuclear receptors such as the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), as well as Type 2 NRs such as the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Here, we reviewed the existing preclinical insights into nuclear receptor activity in breast cancer, with a focus on Type 1 NRs. We also discussed the potential to translate these findings into improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeev Kumar
- Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent’s Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst 2010, Australia; (A.F.); (E.L.)
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst 2010, Australia
| | - Allegra Freelander
- Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent’s Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst 2010, Australia; (A.F.); (E.L.)
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst 2010, Australia
| | - Elgene Lim
- Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent’s Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst 2010, Australia; (A.F.); (E.L.)
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst 2010, Australia
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Kowalczyk W, Waliszczak G, Jach R, Dulińska-Litewka J. Steroid Receptors in Breast Cancer: Understanding of Molecular Function as a Basis for Effective Therapy Development. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4779. [PMID: 34638264 PMCID: PMC8507808 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer remains one of the most important health problems worldwide. The family of steroid receptors (SRs), which comprise estrogen (ER), progesterone (PR), androgen (AR), glucocorticoid (GR) and mineralocorticoid (MR) receptors, along with a receptor for a secosteroid-vitamin D, play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of the disease. They function predominantly as nuclear receptors to regulate gene expression, however, their full spectrum of action reaches far beyond this basic mechanism. SRs are involved in a vast variety of interactions with other proteins, including extensive crosstalk with each other. How they affect the biology of a breast cell depends on such factors as post-translational modifications, expression of coregulators, or which SR isoform is predominantly synthesized in a given cellular context. Although ER has been successfully utilized as a breast cancer therapy target for years, research on therapeutic application of other SRs is still ongoing. Designing effective hormone therapies requires thorough understanding of the molecular function of the SRs. Over the past decades, huge amount of data was obtained in multiple studies exploring this field, therefore in this review we attempt to summarize the current knowledge in a comprehensive way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Kowalczyk
- Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 7 Kopernika St., 31-034 Kraków, Poland; (W.K.); (G.W.)
| | - Grzegorz Waliszczak
- Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 7 Kopernika St., 31-034 Kraków, Poland; (W.K.); (G.W.)
| | - Robert Jach
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 23 Kopernika St., 31-501 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Joanna Dulińska-Litewka
- Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 7 Kopernika St., 31-034 Kraków, Poland; (W.K.); (G.W.)
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Niţă I, Niţipir C, Toma ŞA, Limbău AM, Pîrvu E, Bădărău IA. The importance of androgen receptors in breast cancer. Med Pharm Rep 2021; 94:273-281. [PMID: 34430848 DOI: 10.15386/mpr-1842] [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: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy among women worldwide, and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in females. For the breast malignant tumors there are numerous targeted therapies, depending on the receptors expressed. Regulating the process of epithelial-mesenchyme transcription, the steroid nuclear receptors are important in invasion and progression of BC cells. Till now, it is known that androgen receptor (AR) is present in about 60-80% of BC cells but, unfortunately, there is no targeted therapy available yet. Methods We revised the recent literature that included the AR mechanism of action in patients diagnosed with breast cancer, the preclinical, retrospective and clinical studies and the aspects related to the prognosis of these patients, depending on the molecular subtype. Results A total of 12 articles were eligible for this review. AR positivity was assessed using immunohistochemistry. Herein, neither 1 nor 10% cut-points were robustly prognostic. AR was an independent prognostic marker of BC outcome, especially in triple negative BC group. Conclusion AR is a potential targeted pathway which can improve the prognostic of AR positive patients with BC. Further preclinical and clinical studies are necessary to clarify the mechanism of action and to establish the drugs which can be used, either alone or in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Niţă
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.,Medical Oncology Department, Elias University Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cornelia Niţipir
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.,Medical Oncology Department, Elias University Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | | | - Edvina Pîrvu
- Medical Oncology Department, "Colţea" Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
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Wang T, Zhang F, Sun F. ORY-1001, a KDM1A inhibitor, inhibits proliferation, and promotes apoptosis of triple negative breast cancer cells by inactivating androgen receptor. Drug Dev Res 2021; 83:208-216. [PMID: 34347904 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC), which is widely considered as the most common cancer in women around the world, evokes ~1.7 million new BC cases and 522,000 BC-related deaths each year. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is clinically confirmed as one of the most aggressive subtypes of BC. ORY-1001, a clinically used lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1/KDM1A) inhibitor, was investigated herein to confirm its role in the progression of TNBC and reveal the potential mechanism. After treatment with ORY-1001 in MDA-MB-231 and BT549 cells, the cell proliferation and apoptosis were respectively measured by CCK-8 and TUNEL assays. The expression of proliferation- and apoptosis-associated proteins was tested by means of western blot analysis. Then, R1881, an androgen receptor (AR) agonist, was used to evaluate whether the effects of ORY-1001 on proliferation and apoptosis of TNBC cells was mediated by regulating AR. Results indicated that ORY-1001 treatment restrained the proliferation while enhanced the apoptosis of BC cells, accompanied by the change of proliferation- and apoptosis-related proteins expression. Furthermore, ORY-1001 reduced the level of AR in BC cells. After the activation of AR by R1881, the decreased proliferation and enhanced apoptosis of BC cells triggered by ORY-1001 intervention were partially abolished. In conclusion, this paper has presented the first evidence to suggest that ORY-1001 inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis of TNBC cells by suppressing AR expression, which may constitute the theoretical basis for the clinical use of ORY-1001 in the treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Wang
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Yan'an People's Hospital, Yan'an City, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Fulin Zhang
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Yan'an People's Hospital, Yan'an City, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Fulan Sun
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Second People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong City, Jiangsu Province, China
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Arming androgen receptors to oppose oncogenic estrogen receptor activity in breast cancer. Br J Cancer 2021; 125:1599-1601. [PMID: 34294894 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01478-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Most breast cancers are driven by oncogenic activity of the estrogen receptor alpha (ER). Resistance to ER target therapies is the major cause of breast cancer death. Recently, there has been renewed interest in targeting the androgen receptor (AR) to treat ER-driven breast cancers. Herein, we discuss evidence for an AR agonist, not antagonist, treatment strategy.
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