1
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Liu Y, Wu G. The utilization of single-cell sequencing technology in investigating the immune microenvironment of ccRCC. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1276658. [PMID: 38090562 PMCID: PMC10715415 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1276658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The growth and advancement of ccRCC are strongly associated with the presence of immune infiltration and the tumor microenvironment, comprising tumor cells, immune cells, stromal cells, vascular cells, myeloid-derived cells, and extracellular matrix (ECM). Nevertheless, as a result of the diverse and constantly evolving characteristics of the tumor microenvironment, prior advanced sequencing methods have frequently disregarded specific less prevalent cellular traits at varying intervals, thereby concealing their significance. The advancement and widespread use of single-cell sequencing technology enable us to comprehend the source of individual tumor cells and the characteristics of a greater number of individual cells. This, in turn, minimizes the impact of intercellular heterogeneity and temporal heterogeneity of the same cell on experimental outcomes. This review examines the attributes of the tumor microenvironment in ccRCC and provides an overview of the progress made in single-cell sequencing technology and its particular uses in the current focus of immune infiltration in ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guangzhen Wu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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2
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Hu J, Tan P, Ishihara M, Bayley NA, Schokrpur S, Reynoso JG, Zhang Y, Lim RJ, Dumitras C, Yang L, Dubinett SM, Jat PS, Van Snick J, Huang J, Chin AI, Prins RM, Graeber TG, Xu H, Wu L. Tumor heterogeneity in VHL drives metastasis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:155. [PMID: 37069149 PMCID: PMC10110583 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01362-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Loss of function of the von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene is a hallmark of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The importance of heterogeneity in the loss of this tumor suppressor has been under reported. To study the impact of intratumoral VHL heterogeneity observed in human ccRCC, we engineered VHL gene deletion in four RCC models, including a new primary tumor cell line derived from an aggressive metastatic case. The VHL gene-deleted (VHL-KO) cells underwent epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and exhibited increased motility but diminished proliferation and tumorigenicity compared to the parental VHL-expressing (VHL+) cells. Renal tumors with either VHL+ or VHL-KO cells alone exhibit minimal metastatic potential. Combined tumors displayed rampant lung metastases, highlighting a novel cooperative metastatic mechanism. The poorly proliferative VHL-KO cells stimulated the proliferation, EMT, and motility of neighboring VHL+ cells. Periostin (POSTN), a soluble protein overexpressed and secreted by VHL non-expressing (VHL-) cells, promoted metastasis by enhancing the motility of VHL-WT cells and facilitating tumor cell vascular escape. Genetic deletion or antibody blockade of POSTN dramatically suppressed lung metastases in our preclinical models. This work supports a new strategy to halt the progression of ccRCC by disrupting the critical metastatic crosstalk between heterogeneous cell populations within a tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhui Hu
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Ping Tan
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Moe Ishihara
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Nicholas A Bayley
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Shiruyeh Schokrpur
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA
| | - Jeremy G Reynoso
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Yangjun Zhang
- Department of Biological Repositories, Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Raymond J Lim
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Camelia Dumitras
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Steven M Dubinett
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Parmjit S Jat
- MRC Prion Unit at UCL, Institute of Prion Diseases, 33 Cleveland Street, London, W1W 7FF, UK
| | | | - Jiaoti Huang
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Arnold I Chin
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Robert M Prins
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Thomas G Graeber
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Hua Xu
- Department of Biological Repositories, Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Cancer Precision Diagnosis and Treatment and Translational Medicine Hubei Engineering Research Center, Wuhan, China.
| | - Lily Wu
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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3
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van der Mijn JC, Chen Q, Laursen KB, Khani F, Wang X, Dorsaint P, Sboner A, Gross SS, Nanus DM, Gudas LJ. Transcriptional and metabolic remodeling in clear cell renal cell carcinoma caused by ATF4 activation and the integrated stress response (ISR). Mol Carcinog 2022; 61:851-864. [PMID: 35726553 PMCID: PMC9378514 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Research has shown extensive metabolic remodeling in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), with increased glutathione (GSH) levels. We hypothesized that activating transcription factor-4 (ATF4) and the integrated stress response (ISR) induce a metabolic shift, including increased GSH accumulation, and that Vitamin A deficiency (VAD), found in ccRCCs, can also activate ATF4 signaling in the kidney. To determine the role of ATF4, we used publicly available RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data sets from The Cancer Genomics Atlas. Subsequently, we performed RNA-seq and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics analysis of the murine TRAnsgenic Cancer of the Kidney (TRACK) model for early-stage ccRCC. To validate our findings, we generated RCC4 cell lines with ATF4 gene edits (ATF4-knockout [KO]) and subjected these cells to metabolic isotope tracing. Analysis of variance, the two-sided Student's t test, and gene set enrichment analysis were used (p < 0.05) to determine statistical significance. Here we show that most human ccRCC tumors exhibit activation of the transcription factor ATF4. Activation of ATF4 is concomitant with enrichment of the ATF4 gene set and elevated expression of ATF4 target genes ASNS, ALDH1L2, MTHFD2, DDIT3 (CHOP), DDIT4, TRIB3, EIF4EBP1, SLC7A11, and PPP1R15A (GADD34). Transcript profiling and metabolomics analyses show that activated hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF1α) signaling in our TRACK ccRCC murine model also induces an ATF4-mediated ISR. Notably, both normoxic HIF1α signaling in TRACK kidneys and VAD in wild-type kidneys diminish amino acid levels, increase ASNS, TRIB3, and MTHFD2 messenger RNA levels, and increase levels of lipids and GSH. By metabolic isotope tracing in human RCC4 kidney cancer parental and ATF4 gene-edited (ATF4-KO) cell lines, we show that ATF4 increases GSH accumulation in part via activation of the mitochondrial one-carbon metabolism pathway. Our results demonstrate for the first time that activation of ATF4 enhances GSH accumulation, increases purine and pyrimidine biosynthesis, and contributes to transcriptional and metabolic remodeling in ccRCC. Moreover, constitutive HIF1α expressed only in murine kidney proximal tubules activates ATF4, leading to the metabolic changes associated with the ISR. Our data indicate that HIF1α can promote ccRCC via ATF4 activation. Moreover, lack of Vitamin A in the kidney recapitulates aspects of the ISR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes C. van der Mijn
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- current address: Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Qiuying Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kristian B. Laursen
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Francesca Khani
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Urology; New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Princesca Dorsaint
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andrea Sboner
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Steven S. Gross
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - David M. Nanus
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Urology; New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lorraine J. Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Urology; New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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4
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Ohh M, Taber CC, Ferens FG, Tarade D. Hypoxia-inducible factor underlies von Hippel-Lindau disease stigmata. eLife 2022; 11:80774. [PMID: 36040300 PMCID: PMC9427099 DOI: 10.7554/elife.80774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is a rare hereditary cancer syndrome that causes a predisposition to renal clear-cell carcinoma, hemangioblastoma, pheochromocytoma, and autosomal-recessive familial polycythemia. pVHL is the substrate conferring subunit of an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex that binds to the three hypoxia-inducible factor alpha subunits (HIF1-3α) for polyubiquitylation under conditions of normoxia, targeting them for immediate degradation by the proteasome. Certain mutations in pVHL have been determined to be causative of VHL disease through the disruption of HIFα degradation. However, it remains a focus of investigation and debate whether the disruption of HIFα degradation alone is sufficient to explain the complex genotype-phenotype relationship of VHL disease or whether the other lesser or yet characterized substrates and functions of pVHL impact the development of the VHL disease stigmata; the elucidation of which would have a significant ramification to the direction of research efforts and future management and care of VHL patients and for those manifesting sporadic counterparts of VHL disease. Here, we examine the current literature including the other emergent pseudohypoxic diseases and propose that the VHL disease-phenotypic spectrum could be explained solely by the varied disruption of HIFα signaling upon the loss or mutation in pVHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ohh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Cassandra C Taber
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Fraser G Ferens
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Daniel Tarade
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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5
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Renal Cell Cancer and Obesity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063404. [PMID: 35328822 PMCID: PMC8951303 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancers are a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality. There are many risk factors for tumours, including advanced age, personal or family history of cancer, some types of viral infections, exposure to radiation and some chemicals, smoking and alcohol consumption, as well as obesity. Increasing evidence suggest the role of obesity in the initiation and progression of various cancers, including renal cell carcinoma. Since tumours require energy for their uncontrollable growth, it appears plausible that their initiation and development is associated with the dysregulation of cells metabolism. Thus, any state characterised by an intake of excessive energy and nutrients may favour the development of various cancers. There are many factors that promote the development of renal cell carcinoma, including hypoxia, inflammation, insulin resistance, excessive adipose tissue and adipokines and others. There are also many obesity-related alterations in genes expression, including DNA methylation, single nucleotide polymorphisms, histone modification and miRNAs that can promote renal carcinogenesis. This review focuses on the impact of obesity on the risk of renal cancers development, their aggressiveness and patients’ survival.
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6
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Laursen KB, Chen Q, Khani F, Attarwala N, Gross SS, Dow L, Nanus DM, Gudas LJ. Mitochondrial Ndufa4l2 Enhances Deposition of Lipids and Expression of Ca9 in the TRACK Model of Early Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 11:783856. [PMID: 34970493 PMCID: PMC8712948 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.783856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction and aberrant glycolysis are hallmarks of human clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Whereas glycolysis is thoroughly studied, little is known about the mitochondrial contribution to the pathology of ccRCC. Mitochondrial Ndufa4l2 is predictive of poor survival of ccRCC patients, and in kidney cancer cell lines the protein supports proliferation and colony formation. Its role in ccRCC, however, remains enigmatic. We utilized our established ccRCC model, termed Transgenic Cancer of the Kidney (TRACK), to generate a novel genetically engineered mouse model in which dox-regulated expression of an shRNA decreases Ndufa4l2 levels specifically in the renal proximal tubules (PT). This targeted knockdown of Ndufa4l2 reduced the accumulation of neutral renal lipid and was associated with decreased levels of the ccRCC markers carbonic anhydrase 9 (CA9) and Enolase 1 (ENO1). These findings suggest a link between mitochondrial dysregulation (i.e. high levels of Ndufa4l2), lipid accumulation, and the expression of ccRCC markers ENO1 and CA9, and demonstrate that lipid accumulation and ccRCC development can potentially be attenuated by inhibiting Ndufa4l2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian B Laursen
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Qiuying Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Francesca Khani
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Urology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Nabeel Attarwala
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Steve S Gross
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lukas Dow
- Department of Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Biochemistry, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - David M Nanus
- Department of Urology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lorraine J Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Urology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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7
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Semenza GL. Heritable disorders of oxygen sensing. Am J Med Genet A 2021; 185:3334-3339. [PMID: 34655169 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62521] [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: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) activate gene transcription in response to reduced O2 availability and play critical roles in development, physiology, and disease pathogenesis. Mutations that dysregulate HIF activity are the genetic basis for tumor predisposition in the von Hippel-Lindau syndrome and excess red blood cell production in hereditary erythrocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregg L Semenza
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Maryland, Baltimore, USA
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8
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Semenza GL. Heritable disorders of oxygen sensing. Am J Med Genet A 2021; 185:2576-2581. [PMID: 33973706 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) activate gene transcription in response to reduced O2 availability and play critical roles in development, physiology, and disease pathogenesis. Mutations that dysregulate HIF activity are the genetic basis for tumor predisposition in the von Hippel-Lindau syndrome and excess red blood cell production in hereditary erythrocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregg L Semenza
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Maryland, Baltimore, USA
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9
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Jonasch E, Walker CL, Rathmell WK. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma ontogeny and mechanisms of lethality. Nat Rev Nephrol 2021; 17:245-261. [PMID: 33144689 PMCID: PMC8172121 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-020-00359-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 282] [Impact Index Per Article: 94.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The molecular features that define clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) initiation and progression are being increasingly defined. The TRACERx Renal studies and others that have described the interaction between tumour genomics and remodelling of the tumour microenvironment provide important new insights into the molecular drivers underlying ccRCC ontogeny and progression. Our understanding of common genomic and chromosomal copy number abnormalities in ccRCC, including chromosome 3p loss, provides a mechanistic framework with which to organize these abnormalities into those that drive tumour initiation events, those that drive tumour progression and those that confer lethality. Truncal mutations in ccRCC, including those in VHL, SET2, PBRM1 and BAP1, may engender genomic instability and promote defects in DNA repair pathways. The molecular features that arise from these defects enable categorization of ccRCC into clinically and therapeutically relevant subtypes. Consideration of the interaction of these subtypes with the tumour microenvironment reveals that specific mutations seem to modulate immune cell populations in ccRCC tumours. These findings present opportunities for disease prevention, early detection, prognostication and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Jonasch
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Cheryl Lyn Walker
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - W Kimryn Rathmell
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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10
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Targeting Metabolic Pathways in Kidney Cancer: Rationale and Therapeutic Opportunities. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 26:407-418. [PMID: 32947309 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Alterations in cellular sugar, amino acid and nucleic acid, and lipid metabolism, as well as in mitochondrial function, are a hallmark of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The activation of oncogenes such as hypoxia-inducible factor and loss of the von Hippel-Lindau function and other tumor suppressors frequently occur early on during tumorigenesis and are the drivers for these changes, collectively known as "metabolic reprogramming," which promotes cellular growth, proliferation, and stress resilience. However, tumor cells can become addicted to reprogrammed metabolism. Here, we review the current knowledge of metabolic addictions in clear cell RCC, the most common form of RCC, and to what extent this has created therapeutic opportunities to interfere with such altered metabolic pathways to selectively target tumor cells. We highlight preclinical and emerging clinical data on novel therapeutics targeting metabolic traits in clear cell RCC to provide a comprehensive overview on current strategies to exploit metabolic reprogramming clinically.
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11
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HIF-1α and HIF-2α differently regulate tumour development and inflammation of clear cell renal cell carcinoma in mice. Nat Commun 2020; 11:4111. [PMID: 32807776 PMCID: PMC7431415 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17873-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutational inactivation of VHL is the earliest genetic event in the majority of clear cell renal cell carcinomas (ccRCC), leading to accumulation of the HIF-1α and HIF-2α transcription factors. While correlative studies of human ccRCC and functional studies using human ccRCC cell lines have implicated HIF-1α as an inhibitor and HIF-2α as a promoter of aggressive tumour behaviours, their roles in tumour onset have not been functionally addressed. Herein we show using an autochthonous ccRCC model that Hif1a is essential for tumour formation whereas Hif2a deletion has only minor effects on tumour initiation and growth. Both HIF-1α and HIF-2α are required for the clear cell phenotype. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses reveal that HIF-1α regulates glycolysis while HIF-2α regulates genes associated with lipoprotein metabolism, ribosome biogenesis and E2F and MYC transcriptional activities. HIF-2α-deficient tumours are characterised by increased antigen presentation, interferon signalling and CD8+ T cell infiltration and activation. Single copy loss of HIF1A or high levels of HIF2A mRNA expression correlate with altered immune microenvironments in human ccRCC. These studies reveal an oncogenic role of HIF-1α in ccRCC initiation and suggest that alterations in the balance of HIF-1α and HIF-2α activities can affect different aspects of ccRCC biology and disease aggressiveness.
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12
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Tarade D, Lee JE, Ohh M. Evolution of metazoan oxygen-sensing involved a conserved divergence of VHL affinity for HIF1α and HIF2α. Nat Commun 2019; 10:3293. [PMID: 31337753 PMCID: PMC6650433 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-11149-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Duplication of ancestral hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)α coincided with the evolution of vertebrate species. Paralogs HIF1α and HIF2α are the most well-known factors for modulating the cellular transcriptional profile following hypoxia. However, how the processes of natural selection acted upon the coding region of these two genes to optimize the cellular response to hypoxia during evolution remains unclear. A key negative regulator of HIFα is von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumour suppressor protein. Here we show that evolutionarily-relevant substitutions can modulate a secondary contact between HIF1α Met561 and VHL Phe91. Notably, HIF1α binds more tightly than HIF2α to VHL due to a conserved Met to Thr substitution observed in the vertebrate lineage. Similarly, substitution of VHL Phe91 with Tyr, as seen in invertebrate species, decreases VHL affinity for both HIF1α and HIF2α. We propose that vertebrate evolution involved a more complex hypoxia response with fine-tuned divergence of VHL affinity for HIF1α and HIF2α. Paralogs HIF1α and HIF2α are important modulators regulating cellular transcriptional profile following hypoxia. Here, the authors investigate evolutionary substitutions that fine tune the interaction between HIFα and their regulator VHL in the vertebrate and invertebrate lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Tarade
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Jeffrey E Lee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Michael Ohh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada. .,Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1M1, Canada.
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13
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Hsieh JJ, Le VH, Oyama T, Ricketts CJ, Ho TH, Cheng EH. Chromosome 3p Loss-Orchestrated VHL, HIF, and Epigenetic Deregulation in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. J Clin Oncol 2018; 36:JCO2018792549. [PMID: 30372397 PMCID: PMC6299341 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2018.79.2549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common renal cell carcinoma subtype, and metastatic ccRCC is associated with 5-year survival rates of 10% to 20%. Genetically, ccRCC originates from sequential losses of multiple tumor suppressor genes. Remarkably, chromosome 3p loss occurs in more than 90% of sporadic ccRCCs. This results in concurrent one-copy loss of four tumor suppressor genes that are also mutated individually at high frequency in ccRCC (ie, VHL, 80%; PBRM1, 29% to 46%; BAP1, 6% to 19%; and SETD2, 8% to 30%). Pathogenically, 3p loss probably represents the first genetic event that occurs in sporadic ccRCC and the second genetic event in VHL-mutated hereditary ccRCC. VHL constitutes the substrate recognition module of the VCB-Cul2 E3 ligase that degrades HIF1/2α, whereas PBRM1, BAP1, and SETD2 are epigenetic modulators that regulate gene transcription. Because 3p loss and VHL inactivation are nearly universal truncal events in ccRCC, the resulting HIF1/2 signaling overdrive and accompanied tumor hypervascularization probably underlie the therapeutic benefits observed with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitors, including sorafenib, sunitinib, pazopanib, axitinib, bevacizumab, cabozantinib, and lenvatinib. Furthermore, recent marked advances in ccRCC genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, molecular mechanisms, mouse models, prognostic and predictive biomarkers, and clinical trials have rendered invaluable translational insights concerning precision kidney cancer therapeutics. With an armamentarium encompassing 13 drugs that exploit seven unique therapeutic mechanisms (ie, cytokines, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, mTORC1, cMET/AXL, fibroblast growth factor receptor, programmed cell death-1 and programmed death-ligand 1, and cytotoxic T-cell lymphocyte associated-4) to treat metastatic renal cell carcinoma, one of the imminent clinical questions concerning care of patients with metastatic ccRCC is how a personalized treatment strategy, through rationally combining and sequencing different therapeutic modalities, can be formulated to offer the best clinical outcome for individual patients. Here, we attempt to integrate recent discoveries of immediate translational impacts and discuss future translational challenges and opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J. Hsieh
- James J. Hsieh, Valerie H. Le, and Toshinao Oyama, Washington University, St Louis, MO; Christopher J. Ricketts, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA; Thai Huu Ho, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ; and Emily H. Cheng, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Valerie H. Le
- James J. Hsieh, Valerie H. Le, and Toshinao Oyama, Washington University, St Louis, MO; Christopher J. Ricketts, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA; Thai Huu Ho, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ; and Emily H. Cheng, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Toshinao Oyama
- James J. Hsieh, Valerie H. Le, and Toshinao Oyama, Washington University, St Louis, MO; Christopher J. Ricketts, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA; Thai Huu Ho, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ; and Emily H. Cheng, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Christopher J. Ricketts
- James J. Hsieh, Valerie H. Le, and Toshinao Oyama, Washington University, St Louis, MO; Christopher J. Ricketts, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA; Thai Huu Ho, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ; and Emily H. Cheng, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Thai Huu Ho
- James J. Hsieh, Valerie H. Le, and Toshinao Oyama, Washington University, St Louis, MO; Christopher J. Ricketts, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA; Thai Huu Ho, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ; and Emily H. Cheng, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Emily H. Cheng
- James J. Hsieh, Valerie H. Le, and Toshinao Oyama, Washington University, St Louis, MO; Christopher J. Ricketts, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA; Thai Huu Ho, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ; and Emily H. Cheng, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
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14
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Bertinat R, Westermeier F, Gatica R, Nualart F. Sodium tungstate: Is it a safe option for a chronic disease setting, such as diabetes? J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:51-60. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Romina Bertinat
- Centro de Microscopía Avanzada, CMA Bio‐Bio Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción Concepción Chile
| | - Francisco Westermeier
- Department of Health Studies Institute of Biomedical Science, FH JOANNEUM Gesellschaft mbH University of Applied Sciences Graz Austria
- Facultad de Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián Santiago Chile
| | - Rodrigo Gatica
- Laboratorio de Patología Veterinaria Escuela de Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor Santiago Chile
| | - Francisco Nualart
- Centro de Microscopía Avanzada, CMA Bio‐Bio Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción Concepción Chile
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15
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Abstract
Thiersch, Markus, and Erik R. Swenson. High altitude and cancer mortality. High Alt Med Biol 19:116-123, 2018.-Humans living at high altitude (HA) are exposed to chronic (hypobaric) hypoxia. Despite the permanent stress of hypoxic exposure, humans populating HA areas have reduced cancer mortality over a broad spectrum of cancer types. In fact, the majority of the physiological adaptive processes at HA occurring in response to hypoxia might be the driving force for reduced cancer mortality at HA. In this review, we summarize epidemiological and animal studies that compare cancer incidence and cancer mortality between HA and low altitude or between hypoxia and normoxia, respectively. We discuss the potential role of oxygen-independent and oxygen-dependent mechanisms that might contribute to reduced cancer mortality at HA. Reactive oxygen species and their detoxification as well as the hypoxia-inducible factors are especially promising targets and may be related to why cancer mortality is reduced at HA. In addition, we briefly discuss two aspects with a proven impact on tumorigenesis, namely the immune system and tumor surveillance as well as HA-induced metabolic changes. Further animal and clinical studies are clearly needed to explain why cancer mortality is reduced at HA and to decide whether HA or hypoxia-based therapeutic approaches could be implemented for cancer treatment. However, exposure to HA activates multiple adaptive mechanisms (oxygen independent and oxygen dependent) sharing common pathways as well as activating counteracting pathways, which complicate the identification of specific HA-induced mechanisms of tumor suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Thiersch
- 1 Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute of Veterinary Physiology, University of Zurich , Zurich, Switzerland .,2 Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP), University of Zurich , Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Erik R Swenson
- 3 Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington.,4 Medical Service, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System , Seattle, Washington
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16
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Kim E, Zschiedrich S. Renal Cell Carcinoma in von Hippel-Lindau Disease-From Tumor Genetics to Novel Therapeutic Strategies. Front Pediatr 2018; 6:16. [PMID: 29479523 PMCID: PMC5811471 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2018.00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is an autosomal dominant syndrome caused by mutations in the VHL tumor-suppressor gene, leading to the dysregulation of many hypoxia-induced genes. Affected individuals are at increased risk of developing recurrent and bilateral kidney cysts and dysplastic lesions which may progress to clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Following the eponymous VHL gene inactivation, ccRCCs evolve through additional genetic alterations, resulting in both intratumor and intertumor heterogeneity. Genomic studies have identified frequent mutations in genes involved in epigenetic regulation and phosphoinositide 3-kinase-AKT-mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway activation. Currently, local therapeutic options include nephron-sparing surgery and alternative ablative procedures. For advanced metastatic disease, systemic treatment, including inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor pathways and mTOR pathways, as well as immunotherapy are available. Multimodal therapy, targeting multiple signaling pathways and/or enhancing the immune response, is currently being investigated. A deeper understanding of the fundamental biology of ccRCC development and progression, as well as the development of novel and targeted therapies will be accelerated by new preclinical models, which will greatly inform the search for clinical biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Zschiedrich
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine IV, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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17
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Espana-Agusti J, Warren A, Chew SK, Adams DJ, Matakidou A. Loss of PBRM1 rescues VHL dependent replication stress to promote renal carcinogenesis. Nat Commun 2017; 8:2026. [PMID: 29229903 PMCID: PMC5725450 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-02245-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Inactivation of the VHL (Von Hippel Lindau) tumour suppressor has long been recognised as necessary for the pathogenesis of clear cell renal cancer (ccRCC); however, the molecular mechanisms underlying transformation and the requirement for additional genetic hits remain unclear. Here, we show that loss of VHL alone results in DNA replication stress and damage accumulation, effects that constrain cellular growth and transformation. By contrast, concomitant loss of the chromatin remodelling factor PBRM1 (mutated in 40% of ccRCC) rescues VHL-induced replication stress, maintaining cellular fitness and allowing proliferation. In line with these data we demonstrate that combined deletion of Vhl and Pbrm1 in the mouse kidney is sufficient for the development of fully-penetrant, multifocal carcinomas, closely mimicking human ccRCC. Our results illustrate how VHL and PBRM1 co-operate to drive renal transformation and uncover replication stress as an underlying vulnerability of all VHL mutated renal cancers that could be therapeutically exploited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Espana-Agusti
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, CRUK Cambridge institute, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK.,MedImmune, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, CB21 6GH, UK
| | - Anne Warren
- Department of Pathology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Su Kit Chew
- Cancer Genome Project, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK.,Translational Cancer Therapeutics Laboratory UCL Cancer Institute, London, WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - David J Adams
- Experimental Cancer Genetics, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Athena Matakidou
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, CRUK Cambridge institute, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK. .,Centre for Genomics Research, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Melbourn, SG8 6HB, UK.
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18
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Tarade D, Ohh M. The HIF and other quandaries in VHL disease. Oncogene 2017; 37:139-147. [PMID: 28925400 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in VHL underlie von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, a hereditary cancer syndrome with several subtypes depending on the risk of developing certain combination of classic features, such as clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), hemangioblastoma and pheochromocytoma. Although numerous potential substrates and functions of pVHL have been described over the past decade, the best-defined role of pVHL has remained as the negative regulator of the heterodimeric hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) transcription factor via the oxygen-dependent ubiquitin-mediated degradation of HIF-α subunit. Despite the seminal discoveries that led to the molecular elucidation of the mammalian oxygen-sensing VHL-HIF axis, which have provided several rational therapies, the mechanisms underlying the complex genotype-phenotype correlation in VHL disease are unclear. This review will discuss and highlight the studies that have provided interesting insights as well as uncertainties to the underlying mechanisms governing VHL disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Tarade
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - M Ohh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, MaRS Centre West Tower, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Spirina LV, Usynin YA, Yurmazov ZA, Slonimskaya EM, Kolegova ES, Kondakova IV. Transcription factors NF-kB, HIF-1, HIF-2, growth factor VEGF, VEGFR2 and carboanhydrase IX mRNA and protein level in the development of kidney cancer metastasis. Mol Biol 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893317020194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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20
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Havasi A, Lu W, Cohen HT, Beck L, Wang Z, Igwebuike C, Borkan SC. Blocking peptides and molecular mimicry as treatment for kidney disease. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2016; 312:F1016-F1025. [PMID: 27654896 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00601.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Revised: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein mimotopes, or blocking peptides, are small therapeutic peptides that prevent protein-protein interactions by selectively mimicking a native binding domain. Inexpensive technology facilitates straightforward design and production of blocking peptides in sufficient quantities to allow preventive and therapeutic trials in both in vitro and in vivo experimental disease models. The kidney is an ideal peptide target, since small molecules undergo rapid filtration and efficient bulk absorption by tubular epithelial cells. Because the half-life of peptides is markedly prolonged in the kidneys compared with the bloodstream, blocking peptides are an attractive tool for treating diverse renal diseases, including ischemia, proteinuric states, such as membranous nephropathy and focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis, and renal cell carcinoma. Therapeutic peptides represent one of the fastest-growing reagent classes for novel drug development in human disease, partly because of their ease of administration, high binding affinity, and minimal off-target effects. This review introduces the concepts of blocking peptide design, production, and administration and highlights the potential use of therapeutic peptides to prevent or treat specific renal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Havasi
- Renal Section, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Weining Lu
- Renal Section, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Herbert T Cohen
- Renal Section, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Laurence Beck
- Renal Section, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Zhiyong Wang
- Renal Section, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Steven C Borkan
- Renal Section, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
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21
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Johansson E, Rönö B, Johansson M, Lindgren D, Möller C, Axelson H, Smith EMK. Simultaneous targeted activation of Notch1 and Vhl-disruption in the kidney proximal epithelial tubular cells in mice. Sci Rep 2016; 6:30739. [PMID: 27491826 PMCID: PMC4974510 DOI: 10.1038/srep30739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common subtype of kidney cancer, representing approximately 75% of all renal neoplasms. ccRCC is known to be strongly associated with silencing of the von Hippel Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene, yet VHL deficiency alone does not seem to be sufficient to drive the oncogenic transformation of normal renal epithelium and induce renal tumorigenesis. We, and others, have previously suggested that constitutive activation of the Notch signaling pathway, alongside with VHL loss, contribute to the oncogenic features of ccRCC. Here we report a prevailing hyperactivation of the Notch1 receptor in human ccRCC relative to the healthy counterpart. To explore the consequences of the elevated Notch1 signaling observed in ccRCC patient material, we made use of a conditional mouse model based on concurrent ectopic expression of constitutively active Notch1 (NICD1) and deletion of the Vhl gene. Histological examination of the kidneys of the conditional mice demonstrate the existence of nests of dysplastic cells with a clear cytoplasm as a consequence of lipid accumulation, thus displaying a one important hallmark of human ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elinn Johansson
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medicon Village, Building 404 A3, Scheelevägen 8, 404A3, 223 63 Lund, Sweden
| | - Birgitte Rönö
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medicon Village, Building 404 A3, Scheelevägen 8, 404A3, 223 63 Lund, Sweden
| | - Martin Johansson
- Center for Molecular Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden
| | - David Lindgren
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medicon Village, Building 404 A3, Scheelevägen 8, 404A3, 223 63 Lund, Sweden
| | - Christina Möller
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medicon Village, Building 404 A3, Scheelevägen 8, 404A3, 223 63 Lund, Sweden
| | - Håkan Axelson
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medicon Village, Building 404 A3, Scheelevägen 8, 404A3, 223 63 Lund, Sweden
| | - Emma M K Smith
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medicon Village, Building 404 A3, Scheelevägen 8, 404A3, 223 63 Lund, Sweden
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22
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Abstract
In this study, Kim et al. identified WD repeat and SOCS box-containing protein 1 (WSB1) as a novel regulator of pVHL through WSB1's E3 ligase activity. These findings provide important new insights into the understanding of misregulation of the pVHL–HIF pathway in cancer cell invasion and metastasis. The von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor pVHL is an E3 ligase that targets hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). Mutation of VHL results in HIF up-regulation and contributes to processes related to tumor progression such as invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis. However, very little is known with regard to post-transcriptional regulation of pVHL. Here we show that WD repeat and SOCS box-containing protein 1 (WSB1) is a negative regulator of pVHL through WSB1's E3 ligase activity. Mechanistically, WSB1 promotes pVHL ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation, thereby stabilizing HIF under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. As a consequence, WSB1 up-regulates the expression of HIF-1α’s target genes and promotes cancer invasion and metastasis through its effect on pVHL. Consistent with this, WSB1 protein level negatively correlates with pVHL level and metastasis-free survival in clinical samples. This work reveals a new mechanism of pVHL's regulation by which cancer acquires invasiveness and metastatic tendency.
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23
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Minton DR, Fu L, Mongan NP, Shevchuk MM, Nanus DM, Gudas LJ. Role of NADH Dehydrogenase (Ubiquinone) 1 Alpha Subcomplex 4-Like 2 in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2016; 22:2791-801. [PMID: 26783287 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-15-1511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We delineated the functions of the hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF1α) target NADH dehydrogenase (ubiquinone) 1 alpha subcomplex 4-like 2 (NDUFA4L2) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and characterized NDUFA4L2 as a novel molecular target for ccRCC treatment. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We evaluated normal kidney and ccRCC patient microarray and RNAseq data from Oncomine and The Cancer Genome Atlas for NDUFA4L2 mRNA levels and the clinical implications of high NDUFA4L2 expression. In addition, we examined normal kidney and ccRCC patient tissue samples, human ccRCC cell lines, and murine models of ccRCC for NDUFA4L2 mRNA and protein expression. Utilizing short hairpin RNA, we performed NDUFA4L2 knockdown experiments and analyzed the proliferation, clonogenicity, metabolite levels, cell structure, and autophagy in ccRCC cell lines in culture. RESULTS We found that NDUFA4L2 mRNA and protein are highly expressed in ccRCC samples but undetectable in normal kidney tissue samples, and that NDUFA4L2 mRNA expression correlates with tumor stage and lower overall survival. In addition, we demonstrated that NDUFA4L2 is an HIF1α target in ccRCC and that NDUFA4L2 knockdown has a profound antiproliferative effect, alters metabolic pathways, and causes major stress in cultured RCC cells. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our data show that NDUFA4L2 is a novel molecular target for ccRCC treatment. Clin Cancer Res; 22(11); 2791-801. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise R Minton
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York. Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences-Pharmacology Program, WCMC, New York, New York. Department of Pathology, New York University (NYU) School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Leiping Fu
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York
| | - Nigel P Mongan
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, The University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Maria M Shevchuk
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, WCMC of Cornell University, New York, New York. Meyer Cancer Center, WCMC of Cornell University, New York, New York
| | - David M Nanus
- Meyer Cancer Center, WCMC of Cornell University, New York, New York. Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology of the Department of Medicine, WCMC of Cornell University, New York, New York
| | - Lorraine J Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York. Meyer Cancer Center, WCMC of Cornell University, New York, New York.
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24
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Schönenberger D, Harlander S, Rajski M, Jacobs RA, Lundby AK, Adlesic M, Hejhal T, Wild PJ, Lundby C, Frew IJ. Formation of Renal Cysts and Tumors in Vhl/Trp53-Deficient Mice Requires HIF1α and HIF2α. Cancer Res 2016; 76:2025-36. [PMID: 26759234 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-15-1859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene is inactivated in the majority of clear cell renal cell carcinomas (ccRCC), but genetic ablation of Vhl alone in mouse models is insufficient to recapitulate human tumorigenesis. One function of pVHL is to regulate the stability of the hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF), which become constitutively activated in the absence of pVHL. In established ccRCC, HIF1α has been implicated as a renal tumor suppressor, whereas HIF2α is considered an oncoprotein. In this study, we investigated the contributions of HIF1α and HIF2α to ccRCC initiation in the context of Vhl deficiency. We found that deleting Vhl plus Hif1a or Hif2a specifically in the renal epithelium did not induce tumor formation. However, HIF1α and HIF2α differentially regulated cell proliferation, mitochondrial abundance and oxidative capacity, glycogen accumulation, and acquisition of a clear cell phenotype in Vhl-deficient renal epithelial cells. HIF1α, but not HIF2α, induced Warburg-like metabolism characterized by increased glycolysis, decreased oxygen consumption, and decreased ATP production in mouse embryonic fibroblasts, providing insights into the cellular changes potentially occurring in Vhl mutant renal cells before ccRCC formation. Importantly, deletion of either Hif1a or Hif2a completely prevented the formation of renal cysts and tumors in Vhl/Trp53 mutant mice. These findings argue that both HIF1α and HIF2α exert protumorigenic functions during the earliest stages of cyst and tumor formation in the kidney. Cancer Res; 76(7); 2025-36. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabine Harlander
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michal Rajski
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Robert A Jacobs
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. Health and Physical Education, School of Teaching and Learning, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina
| | - Anne-Kristine Lundby
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mojca Adlesic
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tomas Hejhal
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Peter J Wild
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Carsten Lundby
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ian J Frew
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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25
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Ruf M, Mittmann C, Nowicka AM, Hartmann A, Hermanns T, Poyet C, van den Broek M, Sulser T, Moch H, Schraml P. pVHL/HIF-regulated CD70 expression is associated with infiltration of CD27+ lymphocytes and increased serum levels of soluble CD27 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 21:889-98. [PMID: 25691774 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-1425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE CD70, a member of the TNF ligand superfamily, has been shown frequently overexpressed in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The mechanisms of CD70's upregulation and its role in ccRCC are unknown. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN CD70 expression was immunohistochemically analyzed in 667 RCCs and RCC metastases. Von Hippel-Lindau gene (VHL) mutations, expression patterns of VHL protein (pVHL), hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) α, and several HIF targets were studied in tissues and cell lines and correlated with CD70 overexpression. Gene promoter analysis was performed to confirm CD70 as HIF target gene. Consecutive tissue sections were immunostained to reveal the relation between CD70-expressing RCCs and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes positive for the CD70 receptor (CD27). CD70-mediated release of soluble CD27 in RCC was assessed by coculture experiments and sera analysis of patients with RCC. RESULTS Elevated CD70 expression was seen in 80% of primary tumors and metastases of ccRCC and correlated with dysregulation of the pVHL/HIF pathway. In vitro analyses demonstrated that CD70 upregulation is driven by HIF. Furthermore, CD27(+) lymphocytes preferentially infiltrate CD70-expressing ccRCCs. CD70-dependent release of soluble CD27 in cocultures may explain the high CD27 levels observed in sera of patients with CD70-expressing ccRCC. The combination of lymphocyte infiltration and CD70 expression in RCC was associated with worse patient outcome. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that in ccRCC, CD70 expression is regulated by HIF as a consequence of pVHL inactivation. Increased serum levels of CD27 suggest the existence of CD70-expressing ccRCC, thus representing a potential serum marker for patients suffering from this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Ruf
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Christiane Mittmann
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anna M Nowicka
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thomas Hermanns
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cédric Poyet
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Tullio Sulser
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Holger Moch
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Peter Schraml
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Nanus DM, Gudas LJ. The Tale of Two Hypoxia-Inducible Factors in Renal Cell Carcinoma. Eur Urol 2015; 69:658-659. [PMID: 26431912 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2015.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David M Nanus
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, NY, USA; Meyer Cancer Center, NY, USA.
| | - Lorraine J Gudas
- Meyer Cancer Center, NY, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, NY, USA
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27
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Von Roemeling CA, Marlow LA, Radisky DC, Rohl A, Larsen HE, Wei J, Sasinowska H, Zhu H, Drake R, Sasinowski M, Tun HW, Copland JA. Functional genomics identifies novel genes essential for clear cell renal cell carcinoma tumor cell proliferation and migration. Oncotarget 2015; 5:5320-34. [PMID: 24979721 PMCID: PMC4170622 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.2097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently there is a lack of targeted therapies that lead to long-term attenuation or regression of disease in patients with advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Our group has implemented a high-throughput genetic analysis coupled with a high-throughput proliferative screen in order to investigate the genetic contributions of a large cohort of overexpressed genes at the functional level in an effort to better understand factors involved in tumor initiation and progression. Patient gene array analysis identified transcripts that are consistently elevated in patient ccRCC as compared to matched normal renal tissues. This was followed by a high-throughput lentivirus screen, independently targeting 195 overexpressed transcripts identified in the gene array in four ccRCC cell lines. This revealed 31 ‘hits’ that contribute to ccRCC cell proliferation. Many of the hits identified are not only presented in the context of ccRCC for the first time, but several have not been previously linked to cancer. We further characterize the function of a group of hits in tumor cell invasion. Taken together these findings reveal pathways that may be critical in ccRCC tumorigenicity, and identifies novel candidate factors that could serve as targets for therapeutic intervention or diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers for patients with advanced ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura A Marlow
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Derek C Radisky
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Austin Rohl
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Hege Ekeberg Larsen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Johnny Wei
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida
| | | | - Heng Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida
| | | | | | - Han W Tun
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - John A Copland
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida
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Fu L, Minton DR, Zhang T, Nanus DM, Gudas LJ. Genome-Wide Profiling of TRACK Kidneys Shows Similarity to the Human ccRCC Transcriptome. Mol Cancer Res 2015; 13:870-8. [PMID: 25715653 PMCID: PMC4433424 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-14-0423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common cancer arising from the kidney in adults, with clear cell RCC (ccRCC) representing the majority of all RCCs. Expression of a human HIF1α triple-mutant (P402A, P564A, and N803A) construct in the proximal tubule cells of C57BL/6 mice [TRAnsgenic model of Cancer of the Kidney (TRACK); ref. 1] mimics the histologic changes found in early stage human ccRCC. To better understand the genomic landscape, a high-throughput sequence analysis was performed with cDNA libraries (RNAseq) derived from TRACK transgenic positive (TG(+)) kidney cortex along with human ccRCC transcripts from the Oncomine and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases. Importantly, the expression profiles of TRACK TG(+) kidneys show significant similarities with those observed in human ccRCC, including increased expression of genes involved in glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Some of the transcripts overexpressed in both the TRACK mouse model and human ccRCC include ANKRD37, CA9, EGLN3, HK2, NDUFA4L2, and SLC16A3. These data suggest that constitutive activation of HIF1α in kidney proximal tubule cells transcriptionally reprograms the regulation of metabolic pathways in the kidney and that HIF1α is a major contributor to the altered metabolism observed in human ccRCC. IMPLICATIONS TRACK (GGT-HIF1αM3) kidney mRNA profiles show similarities to human ccRCC transcriptome and phenotypes associated with the Warburg effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leiping Fu
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York. Weill Cornell Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York
| | - Denise R Minton
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York. Weill Cornell Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York
| | - Tuo Zhang
- Genomics Resources Core Facility, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York
| | - David M Nanus
- Weill Cornell Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York. Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York
| | - Lorraine J Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York. Weill Cornell Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, New York.
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29
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Minton DR, Fu L, Chen Q, Robinson BD, Gross SS, Nanus DM, Gudas LJ. Analyses of the transcriptome and metabolome demonstrate that HIF1α mediates altered tumor metabolism in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120649. [PMID: 25830305 PMCID: PMC4382166 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1α) is a transcription factor that is frequently stabilized and active in human clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). We have found that constitutively active HIF1α is sufficient to cause neoplastic transformation in a murine model of ccRCC termed the TRACK model. RNA sequencing (RNAseq) and untargeted metabolomics analyses of samples from TRACK kidneys demonstrate that HIF1α activates the transcription of genes that cause increased glucose uptake, glycolysis, and lactate production, as well as a decrease in the flux of pyruvate entering the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and a decrease in oxidative phosphorylation; these changes are identical to those observed in human ccRCC samples. These studies show that a constitutively active HIF1α promotes tumorigenesis in TRACK mice by mediating a metabolic switch to aerobic glycolysis, i.e., the Warburg effect, and suggest that TRACK mice are a valid model to test novel therapies targeting metabolic changes to inhibit human ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise R. Minton
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Leiping Fu
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Qiuying Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Brian D. Robinson
- Department of Pathology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Steven S. Gross
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - David M. Nanus
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
- Weill Cornell Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Lorraine J. Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, New York, United States of America
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
- Weill Cornell Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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31
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Abstract
Since the Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease tumour suppressor gene VHL was identified in 1993 as the genetic basis for a rare disorder, it has proved to be of wide medical and scientific interest. VHL tumour suppressor protein (pVHL) plays a key part in cellular oxygen sensing by targeting hypoxia-inducible factors for ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation. Early inactivation of VHL is commonly seen in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and insights gained from the functional analysis of pVHL have provided the foundation for the routine treatment of advanced-stage ccRCC with novel targeted therapies. However, recent sequencing studies have identified additional driver genes that are involved in the pathogenesis of ccRCC. As our understanding of the importance of VHL matures, it is timely to review progress from its initial description to current knowledge of VHL biology, as well as future prospects for novel medical treatments for VHL disease and ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Gossage
- 1] Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK. [2] Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Box 193, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK. [3] Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Tim Eisen
- 1] Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK. [2] Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Box 193, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Eamonn R Maher
- 1] Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK. [2] Department of Medical Genetics, University of Cambridge and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Box 238, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
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32
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Frew IJ, Moch H. A clearer view of the molecular complexity of clear cell renal cell carcinoma. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY-MECHANISMS OF DISEASE 2014; 10:263-89. [PMID: 25387056 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-012414-040306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene is mutated as an early event in almost all cases of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most frequent form of kidney cancer. In this review we discuss recent advances in understanding how dysregulation of the many hypoxia-inducible factor α-dependent and -independent functions of the VHL tumor suppressor protein (pVHL) can contribute to tumor initiation and progression. Recent evidence showing extensive inter- and intratumoral genetic diversity has given rise to the idea that ccRCC should actually be considered as a series of molecularly related, yet distinct, diseases defined by the pattern of combinatorial genetic alterations present within the cells of the tumor. We highlight the range of genetic and epigenetic alterations that recur in ccRCC and discuss the mechanisms through which these events appear to function cooperatively with a loss of pVHL function in tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian J Frew
- Institute of Physiology and Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich CH-8057, Switzerland;
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33
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Yu Z, Ni L, Chen D, Su Z, Yu W, Zhang Q, Wang Y, Li C, Gui Y, Lai Y. Expression and clinical significance of RCDG1 in renal cell carcinoma: a novel renal cancer‑associated gene. Mol Med Rep 2014; 10:1583-9. [PMID: 25059753 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2013] [Accepted: 11/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently identified molecular tumor markers have numerous potential applications in the diagnosis, therapy and prognostic prediction of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Through bioinformatics‑based screening approaches together with validation of western blot and immunohistochemical data, the present study identified a novel renal cancer‑associated gene, preliminarily named Renal Cancer Differentiation Gene 1 (RCDG1), originally known as chromosome 4 open reading frame 46 (C4orf46). RCDG1 expression was evaluated by western blot analysis of RCC and adjacent normal tissues, renal cancer cell lines and normal kidney HEK293T cells. Additionally, RCDG1 expression was assessed in 124 RCC paraffin sections, including 92 paired adjacent normal tissues, by immunohistochemistry. The results showed that RCDG1 was significantly downregulated in RCC tissues as compared with normal adjacent tissues (P<0.001), and the expression of RCDG1 in clear cell (cc) RCC tissues was significantly lower as compared with that of non‑ccRCC tissues (P=0.005). Furthermore, statistical analysis revealed RCDG1 expression was negatively correlated with the Fuhrman grade in ccRCC (P=0.008). A reduction in RCDG1 expression may be associated with the oncogenesis of RCC and the differentiation of ccRCC. Further studies may provide more information about the function of RCDG1 gene in RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuhu Yu
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
| | - Liangchao Ni
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
| | - Duqun Chen
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
| | - Zhengming Su
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
| | - Wenshui Yu
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
| | - Yadong Wang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
| | - Cailing Li
- The Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
| | - Yaoting Gui
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
| | - Yongqing Lai
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, P.R. China
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Gudas LJ, Fu L, Minton DR, Mongan NP, Nanus DM. The role of HIF1α in renal cell carcinoma tumorigenesis. J Mol Med (Berl) 2014; 92:825-36. [PMID: 24916472 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-014-1180-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The transcription factor HIF1α is implicated in the development of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Although HIF1α was initially believed to be essential for ccRCC development, recent studies hypothesize an oncogenic role for HIF2α in ccRCC, but a tumor suppressor role for HIF1α, leading to uncertainty as to the precise roles of the different HIF transcription factors in this disease. Using evidence available from studies with human ccRCC cell lines, mouse xenografts, murine models of ccRCC, and human ccRCC specimens, we evaluate the roles of HIF1α and HIF2α in the pathogenesis of ccRCC. We present a convergence of clinical and mechanistic data supporting an important role for HIF1α in promoting tumorigenesis in a clinically important and large subset of ccRCC. This indicates that current understanding of the exact roles of HIF1α and HIF2α is incomplete and that further research is required to determine the diverse roles of HIF1α and HIF2α in ccRCC. KEY MESSAGES The TRACK mouse ccRCC model with constitutively active HIF1α but not HIF2α expressed in proximal tubules develops RCC. HIF1α protein is expressed in the majority of human ccRCC specimens. Elevated HIF1α in ccRCC correlates with a worse prognosis. Many publications do not support a tumor suppressor role for HIF1α in ccRCC. HIF1α, but not HIF2α, is expressed in some types of cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine J Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) of Cornell University, New York, NY, 10065, USA,
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Abstract
As whole-genome sequencing technology rapidly advances, the insights gained from deciphering cancer genomes are shifting the paradigm in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer with the promise of individualized treatment for each patient. Information gained in this way is extensive for certain cancers, but fairly limited in renal cell carcinomas and urothelial carcinoma. Mutations in multiple, potentially druggable genes have been identified in urothelial carcinomas; however, the association between molecular alterations and clinical outcome has not yet been robustly demonstrated. Data in this area are emerging in renal cell carcinoma, leading to the development of targeted agents that have improved overall survival. Unfortunately, these treatments rarely yield complete responses, are not curative, and development of resistance ensues. This Review will focus on the biology of non-hormonally driven urological cancers. We discuss how approaches using whole-genome sequencing can facilitate the discovery of biomarkers of drug sensitivity in both renal cell carcinomas and urothelial carcinomas. For renal cell carcinomas, we will describe how genomic and epigenomic mining has uncovered novel genes and pathways involved in tumorigenesis, tumour classification and mechanisms of resistance in the various subsets of this disease and the potential for exploiting these discoveries in the clinic.
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