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Wang L, Wang X, Zhu X, Zhong L, Jiang Q, Wang Y, Tang Q, Li Q, Zhang C, Wang H, Zou D. Drug resistance in ovarian cancer: from mechanism to clinical trial. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:66. [PMID: 38539161 PMCID: PMC10976737 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-01967-3] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of gynecological cancer-related death. Drug resistance is the bottleneck in ovarian cancer treatment. The increasing use of novel drugs in clinical practice poses challenges for the treatment of drug-resistant ovarian cancer. Continuing to classify drug resistance according to drug type without understanding the underlying mechanisms is unsuitable for current clinical practice. We reviewed the literature regarding various drug resistance mechanisms in ovarian cancer and found that the main resistance mechanisms are as follows: abnormalities in transmembrane transport, alterations in DNA damage repair, dysregulation of cancer-associated signaling pathways, and epigenetic modifications. DNA methylation, histone modifications and noncoding RNA activity, three key classes of epigenetic modifications, constitute pivotal mechanisms of drug resistance. One drug can have multiple resistance mechanisms. Moreover, common chemotherapies and targeted drugs may have cross (overlapping) resistance mechanisms. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can interfere with and thus regulate the abovementioned pathways. A subclass of miRNAs, "epi-miRNAs", can modulate epigenetic regulators to impact therapeutic responses. Thus, we also reviewed the regulatory influence of miRNAs on resistance mechanisms. Moreover, we summarized recent phase I/II clinical trials of novel drugs for ovarian cancer based on the abovementioned resistance mechanisms. A multitude of new therapies are under evaluation, and the preliminary results are encouraging. This review provides new insight into the classification of drug resistance mechanisms in ovarian cancer and may facilitate in the successful treatment of resistant ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Xueping Zhu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin Zhong
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingxiu Jiang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Ya Wang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Tang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiaoling Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haixia Wang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China.
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.
| | - Dongling Zou
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China.
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.
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2
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Dalmasso G, Cougnoux A, Faïs T, Bonnin V, Mottet-Auselo B, Nguyen HT, Sauvanet P, Barnich N, Jary M, Pezet D, Delmas J, Bonnet R. Colibactin-producing Escherichia coli enhance resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs by promoting epithelial to mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell emergence. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2310215. [PMID: 38374654 PMCID: PMC10880512 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2310215] [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: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Human colorectal cancers (CRCs) are readily colonized by colibactin-producing E. coli (CoPEC). CoPEC induces DNA double-strand breaks, DNA mutations, genomic instability, and cellular senescence. Infected cells produce a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which is involved in the increase in tumorigenesis observed in CRC mouse models infected with CoPEC. This study investigated whether CoPEC, and the SASP derived from CoPEC-infected cells, impacted chemotherapeutic resistance. Human intestinal epithelial cells were infected with the CoPEC clinical 11G5 strain or with its isogenic mutant, which is unable to produce colibactin. Chemotherapeutic resistance was assessed in vitro and in a xenograft mouse model. Expressions of cancer stem cell (CSC) markers in infected cells were investigated. Data were validated using a CRC mouse model and human clinical samples. Both 11G5-infected cells, and uninfected cells incubated with the SASP produced by 11G5-infected cells exhibited an increased resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs in vitro and in vivo. This finding correlated with the induction of the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), which led to the emergence of cells exhibiting CSC features. They grew on ultra-low attachment plates, formed colonies in soft agar, and overexpressed several CSC markers (e.g. CD133, OCT-3/4, and NANOG). In agreement with these results, murine and human CRC biopsies colonized with CoPEC exhibited higher expression levels of OCT-3/4 and NANOG than biopsies devoid of CoPEC. Conclusion: CoPEC might aggravate CRCs by inducing the emergence of cancer stem cells that are highly resistant to chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Dalmasso
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Antony Cougnoux
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Tiphanie Faïs
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Virginie Bonnin
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Benoit Mottet-Auselo
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Hang Tt Nguyen
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Pierre Sauvanet
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Centre de référence de la résistance aux antibiotiques, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Nicolas Barnich
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Marine Jary
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Service de Chirurgie Digestive, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Denis Pezet
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Service de Chirurgie Digestive, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Julien Delmas
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Richard Bonnet
- Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe INRAE USC 1382, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte (M2iSH), Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Auvergne, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Centre de référence de la résistance aux antibiotiques, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Justynski O, Bridges K, Krause W, Forni MF, Phan QM, Sandoval-Schaefer T, Carter K, King DE, Hsia HC, Gazes MI, Vyce SD, Driskell RR, Miller-Jensen K, Horsley V. Apoptosis recognition receptors regulate skin tissue repair in mice. eLife 2023; 12:e86269. [PMID: 38127424 PMCID: PMC10735221 DOI: 10.7554/elife.86269] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis and clearance of apoptotic cells via efferocytosis are evolutionarily conserved processes that drive tissue repair. However, the mechanisms by which recognition and clearance of apoptotic cells regulate repair are not fully understood. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing to provide a map of the cellular dynamics during early inflammation in mouse skin wounds. We find that apoptotic pathways and efferocytosis receptors are elevated in fibroblasts and immune cells, including resident Lyve1+ macrophages, during inflammation. Interestingly, human diabetic foot wounds upregulate mRNAs for efferocytosis pathway genes and display altered efferocytosis signaling via the receptor Axl and its ligand Gas6. During early inflammation in mouse wounds, we detect upregulation of Axl in dendritic cells and fibroblasts via TLR3-independent mechanisms. Inhibition studies in vivo in mice reveal that Axl signaling is required for wound repair but is dispensable for efferocytosis. By contrast, inhibition of another efferocytosis receptor, Timd4, in mouse wounds decreases efferocytosis and abrogates wound repair. These data highlight the distinct mechanisms by which apoptotic cell detection coordinates tissue repair and provides potential therapeutic targets for chronic wounds in diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Justynski
- Dept. of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Kate Bridges
- Dept. of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Will Krause
- Dept. of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Maria Fernanda Forni
- Dept. of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Quan M Phan
- Washington State University, SMB, Pullman, United States
| | - Teresa Sandoval-Schaefer
- Dept. of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Kristyn Carter
- Dept. of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Diane E King
- Sunnycrest Bioinformatics, Flemington, United States
| | - Henry C Hsia
- Dept. of Surgery (Plastic), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - Michael I Gazes
- Dept of Podiatric Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, United States
| | - Steven D Vyce
- Dept of Podiatric Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, United States
| | | | - Kathryn Miller-Jensen
- Dept. of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, United States
- Dept. of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Valerie Horsley
- Dept. of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, United States
- Dept. of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
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4
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Adam-Artigues A, Arenas EJ, Arribas J, Prat A, Cejalvo JM. AXL - a new player in resistance to HER2 blockade. Cancer Treat Rev 2023; 121:102639. [PMID: 37864955 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2023.102639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
HER2 is a driver in solid tumors, mainly breast, oesophageal and gastric cancer, through activation of oncogenic signaling pathways such as PI3K or MAPK. HER2 overexpression associates with aggressive disease and poor prognosis. Despite targeted anti-HER2 therapy has improved outcomes and is the current standard of care, resistance emerge in some patients, requiring additional therapeutic strategies. Several mechanisms, including the upregulation of receptors tyrosine kinases such as AXL, are involved in resistance. AXL signaling leads to cancer cell proliferation, survival, migration, invasion and angiogenesis and correlates with poor prognosis. In addition, AXL overexpression accompanied by a mesenchymal phenotype result in resistance to chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Preclinical studies show that AXL drives anti-HER2 resistance and metastasis through dimerization with HER2 and activation of downstream pathways in breast cancer. Moreover, AXL inhibition restores response to HER2 blockade in vitro and in vivo. Limited data in gastric and oesophageal cancer also support these evidences. Furthermore, AXL shows a strong value as a prognostic and predictive biomarker in HER2+ breast cancer patients, adding a remarkable translational relevance. Therefore, current studies enforce the potential of co-targeting AXL and HER2 to overcome resistance and supports the use of AXL inhibitors in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Enrique J Arenas
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Spain; Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Spain.
| | - Joaquín Arribas
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Spain; Preclinical Research Program, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Spain; Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Spain; Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Spain.
| | - Aleix Prat
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), Spain; Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Spain; SOLTI Breast Cancer Research Group, Spain.
| | - Juan Miguel Cejalvo
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Spain; Preclinical Research Program, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Spain; Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínico Universitario de València, Spain.
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5
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Yang YY, Lin SC, Lay JD, Cho CY, Jang TH, Ku HY, Yao CJ, Chuang SE. Intervention of AXL in EGFR Signaling via Phosphorylation and Stabilization of MIG6 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14879. [PMID: 37834326 PMCID: PMC10573631 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914879] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
About 80% of lung cancer patients are diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). EGFR mutation and overexpression are common in NSCLC, thus making EGFR signaling a key target for therapy. While EGFR kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) are widely used and efficacious in treatment, increases in resistance and tumor recurrence with alternative survival pathway activation, such as that of AXL and MET, occur frequently. AXL is one of the EMT (epithelial-mesenchymal transition) signature genes, and EMT morphological changes are also responsible for EGFR-TKI resistance. MIG6 is a negative regulator of ERBB signaling and has been reported to be positively correlated with EGFR-TKI resistance, and downregulation of MIG6 by miR-200 enhances EMT transition. While MIG6 and AXL are both correlated with EMT and EGFR signaling pathways, how AXL, MIG6 and EGFR interplay in lung cancer remains elusive. Correlations between AXL and MIG6 expression were analyzed using Oncomine or the CCLE. A luciferase reporter assay was used for determining MIG6 promoter activity. Ectopic overexpression, RNA interference, Western blot analysis, qRT-PCR, a proximity ligation assay and a coimmunoprecipitation assay were performed to analyze the effects of certain gene expressions on protein-protein interaction and to explore the underlying mechanisms. An in vitro kinase assay and LC-MS/MS were utilized to determine the phosphorylation sites of AXL. In this study, we demonstrate that MIG6 is a novel substrate of AXL and is stabilized upon phosphorylation at Y310 and Y394/395 by AXL. This study reveals a connection between MIG6 and AXL in lung cancer. AXL phosphorylates and stabilizes MIG6 protein, and in this way EGFR signaling may be modulated. This study may provide new insights into the EGFR regulatory network and may help to advance cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Yu Yang
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (Y.-Y.Y.); (S.-C.L.); (C.-Y.C.); (T.-H.J.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Sheng-Chieh Lin
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (Y.-Y.Y.); (S.-C.L.); (C.-Y.C.); (T.-H.J.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Jong-Ding Lay
- Department of Nursing, National Taichung University of Science and Technology, Taichung 40343, Taiwan;
| | - Chun-Yu Cho
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (Y.-Y.Y.); (S.-C.L.); (C.-Y.C.); (T.-H.J.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Te-Hsuan Jang
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (Y.-Y.Y.); (S.-C.L.); (C.-Y.C.); (T.-H.J.); (H.-Y.K.)
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Ying Ku
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (Y.-Y.Y.); (S.-C.L.); (C.-Y.C.); (T.-H.J.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Chih-Jung Yao
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Cancer Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11696, Taiwan
| | - Shuang-En Chuang
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (Y.-Y.Y.); (S.-C.L.); (C.-Y.C.); (T.-H.J.); (H.-Y.K.)
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6
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Breitenecker K, Hedrich V, Pupp F, Chen D, Řezníčková E, Ortmayr G, Huber H, Weber G, Balcar L, Pinter M, Mikulits W. Synergism of the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl with ErbB receptors mediates resistance to regorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1238883. [PMID: 37746265 PMCID: PMC10514905 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1238883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients at advanced stages receive immunotherapy or treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as Sorafenib (Sora) or Lenvatinib in frontline as well as Regorafenib (Rego) or Cabozantinib in second-line. A major hindrance of TKI therapies is the development of resistance, which renders drug treatment futile and results in HCC progression. Methods In this study, we addressed the impact of the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl binding to its ligand Gas6 in acquiring refractoriness to TKIs. The initial responses of Axl-positive and Axl-negative cell lines to different TKIs were assessed. Upon inducing resistance, RNA-Seq, gain- and loss-of-function studies were applied to understand and intervene with the molecular basis of refractoriness. Secretome analysis was performed to identify potential biomarkers of resistance. Results We show that HCC cells exhibiting a mesenchymal-like phenotype were less sensitive to drug treatment, linking TKI resistance to changes in epithelial plasticity. Gas6/Axl expression and activation were upregulated in Rego-resistant HCC cells together with the induction of ErbB receptors, whereas HCC cells lacking Axl failed to stimulate ErbBs. Treatment of Rego-insensitive HCC cells with the pan-ErbB family inhibitor Afatinib rather than with Erlotinib blocking ErbB1 reduced cell viability and clonogenicity. Genetic intervention with ErbB2-4 but not ErbB1 confirmed their crucial involvement in refractoriness to Rego. Furthermore, Rego-resistant HCC cells secreted basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) depending on Axl expression. HCC patients treated with Sora in first-line and with Rego in second-line displayed elevated serum levels of bFGF, emphasizing bFGF as a predictive biomarker of TKI treatment. Discussion Together, these data suggest that the inhibition of ErbBs is synthetic lethal with Rego in Axl-expressing HCC cells, showing a novel vulnerability of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Breitenecker
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Viola Hedrich
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franziska Pupp
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Doris Chen
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Eva Řezníčková
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Gregor Ortmayr
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heidemarie Huber
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerhard Weber
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lorenz Balcar
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias Pinter
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Mikulits
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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7
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Bhalla S, Fattah FJ, Ahn C, Williams J, Macchiaroli A, Padro J, Pogue M, Dowell JE, Putnam WC, McCracken N, Micklem D, Brekken RA, Gerber DE. Phase 1 trial of bemcentinib (BGB324), a first-in-class, selective AXL inhibitor, with docetaxel in patients with previously treated advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Lung Cancer 2023; 182:107291. [PMID: 37423058 PMCID: PMC11161199 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2023.107291] [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: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES AXL, a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase, is highly expressed and associated with poor prognosis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Bemcentinib (BGB324), a selective orally bioavailable small molecule AXL inhibitor, synergizes with docetaxel in preclinical models. We performed a phase I trial of bemcentinib plus docetaxel in previously treated advanced NSCLC. MATERIALS AND METHODS Escalation of two dose levels of bemcentinib (200 mg load × 3 days then 100 mg daily, or 400 mg load × 3 days then 200 mg daily) in combination with docetaxel (60 or 75 mg/m2 every 3 weeks) followed a 3+3 study design. Due to hematologic toxicity, prophylactic G-CSF was added. Bemcentinib monotherapy was administered for one week prior to docetaxel initiation to assess pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic effects alone and in combination. Plasma protein biomarker levels were measured. RESULTS 21 patients were enrolled (median age 62 years, 67% male). Median treatment duration was 2.8 months (range 0.7-10.9 months). The main treatment-related adverse events were neutropenia (86%, 76% ≥G3), diarrhea (57%, 0% ≥G3), fatigue (57%, 5% ≥G3), and nausea (52%, 0% ≥G3). Neutropenic fever occurred in 8 (38%) patients. The maximum tolerated dose was docetaxel 60 mg/m2 with prophylactic G-CSF support plus bemcentinib 400 mg load × 3 days followed by 200 mg daily thereafter. Bemcentinib and docetaxel pharmacokinetics resembled prior monotherapy data. Among 17 patients evaluable for radiographic response, 6 (35%) patients had partial response and 8 (47%) patients had stable disease as best response. Bemcentinib administration was associated with modulation of proteins involved in protein kinase B signaling, reactive oxygen species metabolism, and other processes. CONCLUSION Bemcentinib plus docetaxel with G-CSF support demonstrates anti-tumor activity in previously treated, advanced NSCLC. The role of AXL inhibition in the treatment of NSCLC remains under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena Bhalla
- Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Hematology-Oncology), UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Farjana J Fattah
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Chul Ahn
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jessica Williams
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Alyssa Macchiaroli
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jonathan Padro
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Meredith Pogue
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jonathan E Dowell
- Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Hematology-Oncology), UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - William C Putnam
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Rolf A Brekken
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Surgery (Division of Surgical Oncology), UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - David E Gerber
- Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Hematology-Oncology), UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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8
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Zhai X, Pu D, Wang R, Zhang J, Lin Y, Wang Y, Zhai N, Peng X, Zhou Q, Li L. Gas6/AXL pathway: immunological landscape and therapeutic potential. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1121130. [PMID: 37265798 PMCID: PMC10231434 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1121130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a disease with ecological and evolutionary unity, which seriously affects the survival and quality of human beings. Currently, many reports have suggested Gas6 plays an important role in cancer. Binding of gas6 to TAM receptors is associated with the carcinogenetic mechanisms of multiple malignancies, such as in breast cancer, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, etc., and shortened overall survival. It is accepted that the Gas6/TAM pathway can promote the malignant transformation of various types of cancer cells. Gas6 has the highest affinity for Axl, an important member of the TAM receptor family. Knockdown of the TAM receptors Axl significantly affects cell cycle progression in tumor cells. Interestingly, Gas6 also has an essential function in the tumor microenvironment. The Gas6/AXL pathway regulates angiogenesis, immune-related molecular markers and the secretion of certain cytokines in the tumor microenvironment, and also modulates the functions of a variety of immune cells. In addition, evidence suggests that the Gas6/AXL pathway is involved in tumor therapy resistance. Recently, multiple studies have begun to explore in depth the importance of the Gas6/AXL pathway as a potential tumor therapeutic target as well as its broad promise in immunotherapy; therefore, a timely review of the characteristics of the Gas6/AXL pathway and its value in tumor treatment strategies is warranted. This comprehensive review assessed the roles of Gas6 and AXL receptors and their associated pathways in carcinogenesis and cancer progression, summarized the impact of Gas6/AXL on the tumor microenvironment, and highlighted the recent research progress on the relationship between Gas6/AXL and cancer drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Zhai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dan Pu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Rulan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiabi Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, College of Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Yiyun Lin
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ni Zhai
- Neurosurgery Intensive Care Unit, The 987th Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Baoji, Shanxi, China
| | - Xuan Peng
- Department of Pathophysiology, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, Hubei, China
| | - Qinghua Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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9
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Pantelaiou-Prokaki G, Reinhardt O, Georges NS, Agorku DJ, Hardt O, Prokakis E, Mieczkowska IK, Deppert W, Wegwitz F, Alves F. Basal-like mammary carcinomas stimulate cancer stem cell properties through AXL-signaling to induce chemotherapy resistance. Int J Cancer 2023; 152:1916-1932. [PMID: 36637144 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) is the most aggressive and heterogeneous breast cancer (BC) subtype. Conventional chemotherapies represent next to surgery the most frequently employed treatment options. Unfortunately, resistant tumor phenotypes often develop, resulting in therapeutic failure. To identify the early events occurring upon the first drug application and initiating chemotherapy resistance in BLBC, we leveraged the WAP-T syngeneic mammary carcinoma mouse model and we developed a strategy combining magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS)-based tumor cell enrichment with high-throughput transcriptome analyses. We discovered that chemotherapy induced a massive gene expression reprogramming toward stemness acquisition to tolerate and survive the cytotoxic treatment in vitro and in vivo. Retransplantation experiments revealed that one single cycle of cytotoxic drug combination therapy (Cyclophosphamide, Adriamycin and 5-Fluorouracil) suffices to induce resistant tumor cell phenotypes in vivo. We identified Axl and its ligand Pros1 as highly induced genes driving cancer stem cell (CSC) properties upon chemotherapy in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, from our analysis of BLBC patient datasets, we found that AXL expression is also strongly correlated with CSC-gene signatures, a poor response to conventional therapies and worse survival outcomes in those patients. Finally, we demonstrate that AXL inhibition sensitized BLBC-cells to cytotoxic treatment in vitro. Together, our data support AXL as a promising therapeutic target to optimize the efficiency of conventional cytotoxic therapies in BLBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garyfallia Pantelaiou-Prokaki
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Translational Molecular Imaging, Göttingen, Germany.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Reinhardt
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Translational Molecular Imaging, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nadine S Georges
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - David J Agorku
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, R&D Reagents, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Olaf Hardt
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, R&D Reagents, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Evangelos Prokakis
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Iga K Mieczkowska
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Deppert
- University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Institute for Tumor Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Florian Wegwitz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Frauke Alves
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Translational Molecular Imaging, Göttingen, Germany.,Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Clinic for Hematology and Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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10
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Portelinha A, da Silva Ferreira M, Erazo T, Jiang M, Asgari Z, de Stanchina E, Younes A, Wendel HG. Synthetic lethality of drug-induced polyploidy and BCL-2 inhibition in lymphoma. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1522. [PMID: 36934096 PMCID: PMC10024740 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37216-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous whole genome duplication and the adaptive mutations that disrupt genome integrity checkpoints are infrequent events in B cell lymphomas. This suggests that lymphomas might be vulnerable to therapeutics that acutely trigger genomic instability and polyploidy. Here, we report a therapeutic combination of inhibitors of the Polo-like kinase 4 and BCL-2 that trigger genomic instability and cell death in aggressive lymphomas. The synthetic lethality is selective for tumor cells and spares vital organs. Mechanistically, inhibitors of Polo-like kinase 4 impair centrosome duplication and cause genomic instability. The elimination of polyploid cells largely depends on the pro-apoptotic BAX protein. Consequently, the combination of drugs that induce polyploidy with the BCL-2 inhibitor Venetoclax is highly synergistic and safe against xenograft and PDX models. We show that B cell lymphomas are ill-equipped for acute, therapy-induced polyploidy and that BCL-2 inhibition further enhances the removal of polyploid lymphoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Portelinha
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Department of Medicine Lymphoma Service Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | | | - Tatiana Erazo
- Department of Medicine Lymphoma Service Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Man Jiang
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Zahra Asgari
- Department of Medicine Lymphoma Service Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Elisa de Stanchina
- Antitumor Assessment Core, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anas Younes
- Department of Medicine Lymphoma Service Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- AstraZeneca, Medimmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD, USA.
| | - Hans-Guido Wendel
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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11
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Sham NFR, Hasani NAH, Hasan N, Karim MKA, Fuad SBSA, Hasbullah HH, Ibahim MJ. Acquired radioresistance in EMT6 mouse mammary carcinoma cell line is mediated by CTLA-4 and PD-1 through JAK/STAT/PI3K pathway. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3108. [PMID: 36813833 PMCID: PMC9946948 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29925-x] [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: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer recurrence is often associated with the acquisition of radioresistance by cancer tissues due to failure in radiotherapy. The underlying mechanism leading to the development of acquired radioresistance in the EMT6 mouse mammary carcinoma cell line and the potential pathway involved was investigated by comparing differential gene expressions between parental and acquired radioresistance cells. EMT6 cell line was exposed to 2 Gy/per cycle of gamma-ray and the survival fraction between EMT6-treated and parental cells was compared. EMT6RR_MJI (acquired radioresistance) cells was developed after 8 cycles of fractionated irradiation. The development of EMT6RR_MJI cells was confirmed with further irradiation at different doses of gamma-ray, and both the survival fraction and migration rates were measured. Higher survival fraction and migration rates were obtained in EMT6RR_MJI cells after exposure to 4 Gy and 8 Gy gamma-ray irradiations compared to their parental cells. Gene expression between EMT6RR_MJI and parental cells was compared, and 16 genes identified to possess more than tenfold changes were selected and validated using RT-PCR. Out of these genes, 5 were significantly up-regulated i.e., IL-6, PDL-1, AXL, GAS6 and APCDD1. Based on pathway analysis software, the development of acquired radioresistance in EMT6RR_MJI was hypothesized through JAK/STAT/PI3K pathway. Presently, CTLA-4 and PD-1 were determined to be associated with JAK/STAT/PI3K pathway, where both their expressions were significantly increased in EMT6RR_MJI compared to parental cells in the 1st, 4th and 8th cycle of radiation. As a conclusion, the current findings provided a mechanistic platform for the development of acquired radioresistance in EMT6RR_MJI through overexpression of CTLA-4 and PD-1, and novel knowledge on therapeutic targets for recurrent radioresistant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Fatihah Ronny Sham
- Faculty of Medicine, Jalan Hospital, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Sungai Buloh Campus, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Narimah Abdul Hamid Hasani
- Faculty of Medicine, Jalan Hospital, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Sungai Buloh Campus, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nurhaslina Hasan
- Faculty of Dentistry, Jalan Hospital, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Sungai Buloh Campus, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Syed Baharom Syed Ahmad Fuad
- Faculty of Medicine, Jalan Hospital, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Sungai Buloh Campus, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Harissa Husainy Hasbullah
- Faculty of Medicine, Jalan Hospital, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Sungai Buloh Campus, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Johari Ibahim
- Faculty of Medicine, Jalan Hospital, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Sungai Buloh Campus, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia.
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12
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He R, Song Z, Bai Y, He S, Huang J, Wang Y, Zhou F, Huang W, Guo J, Wang Z, Tu ZC, Ren X, Zhang Z, Xu J, Ding K. Discovery of AXL Degraders with Improved Potencies in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Cells. J Med Chem 2023; 66:1873-1891. [PMID: 36695404 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
AXL kinase is heavily involved in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance of many cancers, and several AXL inhibitors are in clinical investigations. Recent studies demonstrated that the N-terminal distal region of AXL plays more important roles in cell invasiveness than its C-terminal kinase domain. Therefore, degradation of AXL may present a novel superior therapeutic approach than the kinase inhibitor therapy. Herein, we report the discovery of a series of new AXL PROTAC degraders. One representative compound 6n potently depletes AXL with a DC50 value of 5 nM in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells. It also demonstrates significantly improved potencies against the AXL signaling activation, cell proliferation, migration and invasion of TNBC cells comparing with the corresponding kinase inhibitor. Moreover, the compound exhibits promising therapeutic potential both in patient-derived organoids and a xenograft mouse model of MDA-MB-231 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui He
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zhiqiang Song
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic & Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yu Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic & Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Sheng He
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jing Huang
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yongxing Wang
- Livzon Research Institute, Livzon Pharmaceutical Group Inc., 38 Chuangye North Road, Jinwan District, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Fengtao Zhou
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Weixue Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic & Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jing Guo
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic & Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zheng-Chao Tu
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaomei Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic & Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhang Zhang
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Livzon Research Institute, Livzon Pharmaceutical Group Inc., 38 Chuangye North Road, Jinwan District, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Ke Ding
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou 510632, China.,State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic & Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital (Huaqiao Hospital), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
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13
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Justynski O, Bridges K, Krause W, Forni MF, Phan Q, Sandoval-Schaefer T, Driskell R, Miller-Jensen K, Horsley V. Apoptosis recognition receptors regulate skin tissue repair in mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.17.523241. [PMID: 36711968 PMCID: PMC9882102 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.17.523241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis and clearance of apoptotic cells via efferocytosis are evolutionarily conserved processes that drive tissue repair. However, the mechanisms by which recognition and clearance of apoptotic cells regulate repair are not fully understood. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing to provide a map of the cellular dynamics during early inflammation in mouse skin wounds. We find that apoptotic pathways and efferocytosis receptors are elevated in fibroblasts and immune cells, including resident Lyve1 + macrophages, during inflammation. Interestingly, human diabetic foot wounds upregulate mRNAs for apoptotic genes and display increased and altered efferocytosis signaling via the receptor Axl. During early inflammation in mouse wounds, we detect upregulation of Axl in dendritic cells and fibroblasts via TLR3-independent mechanisms. Inhibition studies in vivo in mice reveal that Axl signaling is required for wound repair but is dispensable for efferocytosis. By contrast, inhibition of another efferocytosis receptor, Timd4, in mouse wounds decreases efferocytosis and abrogates wound repair. These data highlight the distinct mechanisms by which apoptotic cell detection coordinates tissue repair and provides potential therapeutic targets for chronic wounds in diabetic patients.
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14
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Tsukamoto S, Sugi NH, Nishibata K, Nakazawa Y, Ito D, Fukushima S, Nakagawa T, Ichikawa K, Kato Y, Kakiuchi D, Goto A, Itoh-Yagi M, Aota T, Inoue S, Yamane Y, Murai N, Azuma H, Nagao S, Sasai K, Akagi T, Imai T, Matsui J, Matsushima T. ER-851, a Novel Selective Inhibitor of AXL, Overcomes Resistance to Antimitotic Drugs. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:12-24. [PMID: 36279567 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Innate and adaptive resistance to cancer therapies, such as chemotherapies, molecularly targeted therapies, and immune-modulating therapies, is a major issue in clinical practice. Subpopulations of tumor cells expressing the receptor tyrosine kinase AXL become enriched after treatment with antimitotic drugs, causing tumor relapse. Elevated AXL expression is closely associated with drug resistance in clinical samples, suggesting that AXL plays a pivotal role in drug resistance. Although several molecules with AXL inhibitory activity have been developed, none have sufficient activity and selectivity to be clinically effective when administered in combination with a cancer therapy. Here, we report a novel small molecule, ER-851, which is a potent and highly selective AXL inhibitor. To investigate resistance mechanisms and identify driving molecules, we conducted a comprehensive gene expression analysis of chemoresistant tumor cells in mouse xenograft models of genetically engineered human lung cancer and human triple-negative breast cancer. Consistent with the effect of AXL knockdown, cotreatment of ER-851 and antimitotic drugs produced an antitumor effect and prolonged relapse-free survival in the mouse xenograft model of human triple-negative breast cancer. Importantly, when orally administered to BALB/c mice, this compound did not induce retinal toxicity, a known side effect of chronic MER inhibition. Together, these data strongly suggest that AXL is a therapeutic target for overcoming drug resistance and that ER-851 is a promising candidate therapeutic agent for use against AXL-expressing antimitotic-resistant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuntaro Tsukamoto
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Naoko Hata Sugi
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kyoko Nishibata
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Youya Nakazawa
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Daisuke Ito
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Sayo Fukushima
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Takayuki Nakagawa
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kenji Ichikawa
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yu Kato
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Dai Kakiuchi
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Aya Goto
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Tomoki Aota
- hhc Data Creation Center, Eisai Co., Ltd., Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Inoue
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Yamane
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Norio Murai
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Azuma
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nagao
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ken Sasai
- KAN Research Institute, Inc., Kobe-shi, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Akagi
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan.,KAN Research Institute, Inc., Kobe-shi, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Toshio Imai
- KAN Research Institute, Inc., Kobe-shi, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Junji Matsui
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
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15
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Chan S, Zhang Y, Wang J, Yu Q, Peng X, Zou J, Zhou L, Tan L, Duan Y, Zhou Y, Hur H, Ai J, Wang Z, Ren X, Zhang Z, Ding K. Discovery of 3-Aminopyrazole Derivatives as New Potent and Orally Bioavailable AXL Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2022; 65:15374-15390. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shingpan Chan
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yunong Zhang
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jie Wang
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Qiuchun Yu
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xia Peng
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jian Zou
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Licheng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic and Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, #345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Li Tan
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yunxin Duan
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Hoon Hur
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, 164 Worldcup-ro, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si 16499, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jing Ai
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic and Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, #345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaomei Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic and Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, #345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhang Zhang
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ke Ding
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 510632, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic and Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, #345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital (Huaqiao Hospital), Jinan University, #601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
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16
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Malvankar C, Kumar D. AXL kinase inhibitors- A prospective model for medicinal chemistry strategies in anticancer drug discovery. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188786. [PMID: 36058379 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Deviant expressions of the tyrosine kinase AXL receptor are strongly correlated with a plethora of malignancies. Henceforth, the topic of targeting AXL is beginning to gain prominence due to mounting evidence of the protein's substantial connection to poor prognosis and treatment resistance. This year marked a milestone in clinical testing for AXL as an anti-carcinogenic target, with the start of the first AXL-branded inhibitor study. It is critical to emphasize that AXL is a primary and secondary target in various kinase inhibitors that have been approved or are on the verge of being approved while interpreting the present benefits and future potential effects of AXL suppression in the clinical setting. Several research arenas across the globe resolutely affirm the crucial significance of AXL receptors in the case study of several pathophysiologies including AML, prostate cancer, and breast cancer. This review endeavors to delve deeply into the biological, chemical, and structural features of AXL kinase; primary AXL inhibitors that target the enzyme (either purposefully or unintentionally); and the prospects and barriers for turning AXL inhibitors into a feasible treatment alternative. Furthermore, we analyse the co-crystal structure of AXL, which remains extensively unexplored, as well as the mutations of AXL that may be valuable in the development of novel inhibitors in the upcoming future and take a comprehensive look at the medicinal chemistry of AXL inhibitors of recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinmay Malvankar
- Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, Pune, Maharashtra 411038, India
| | - Dileep Kumar
- Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, Pune, Maharashtra 411038, India; Department of Entomology, University of California, Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA; UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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17
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Bar-Hai N, Ishay-Ronen D. Engaging plasticity: Differentiation therapy in solid tumors. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:944773. [PMID: 36034865 PMCID: PMC9410762 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.944773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a systemic heterogeneous disease that can undergo several rounds of latency and activation. Tumor progression evolves by increasing diversity, adaptation to signals from the microenvironment and escape mechanisms from therapy. These dynamic processes indicate necessity for cell plasticity. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a major role in facilitating cell plasticity in solid tumors by inducing dedifferentiation and cell type transitions. These two practices, plasticity and dedifferentiation enhance tumor heterogeneity creating a key challenge in cancer treatment. In this review we will explore cancer cell plasticity and elaborate treatment modalities that aspire to overcome such dynamic processes in solid tumors. We will further discuss the therapeutic potential of utilizing enhanced cell plasticity for differentiation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neta Bar-Hai
- Cancer Research Center, Oncology Institute, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dana Ishay-Ronen
- Cancer Research Center, Oncology Institute, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- *Correspondence: Dana Ishay-Ronen,
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18
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Bruce SF, Cho K, Noia H, Lomonosova E, Stock EC, Oplt A, Blachut B, Mullen MM, Kuroki LM, Hagemann AR, McCourt CK, Thaker PH, Khabele D, Powell MA, Mutch DG, Shriver LP, Patti GJ, Fuh KC. GAS6-AXL Inhibition by AVB-500 Overcomes Resistance to Paclitaxel in Endometrial Cancer by Decreasing Tumor Cell Glycolysis. Mol Cancer Ther 2022; 21:1348-1359. [PMID: 35588308 PMCID: PMC9370070 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0704] [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: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy is often ineffective in advanced-stage and aggressive histologic subtypes of endometrial cancer. Overexpression of the receptor tyrosine kinase AXL has been found to be associated with therapeutic resistance, metastasis, and poor prognosis. However, the mechanism of how inhibition of AXL improves response to chemotherapy is still largely unknown. Thus, we aimed to determine whether treatment with AVB-500, a selective inhibitor of GAS6-AXL, improves endometrial cancer cell sensitivity to chemotherapy particularly through metabolic changes. We found that both GAS6 and AXL expression were higher by immunohistochemistry in patient tumors with a poor response to chemotherapy compared with tumors with a good response to chemotherapy. We showed that chemotherapy-resistant endometrial cancer cells (ARK1, uterine serous carcinoma and PUC198, grade 3 endometrioid adenocarcinoma) had improved sensitivity and synergy with paclitaxel and carboplatin when treated in combination with AVB-500. We also found that in vivo intraperitoneal models with ARK1 and PUC198 cells had decreased tumor burden when treated with AVB-500 + paclitaxel compared with paclitaxel alone. Treatment with AVB-500 + paclitaxel decreased AKT signaling, which resulted in a decrease in basal glycolysis. Finally, multiple glycolytic metabolites were lower in the tumors treated with AVB-500 + paclitaxel than in tumors treated with paclitaxel alone. Our study provides strong preclinical rationale for combining AVB-500 with paclitaxel in aggressive endometrial cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaina F. Bruce
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Kevin Cho
- Center for Metabolomics and Isotope Tracing, Department of Chemistry, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Hollie Noia
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Elena Lomonosova
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Elizabeth C. Stock
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Alyssa Oplt
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Barbara Blachut
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Mary M. Mullen
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Lindsay M. Kuroki
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Andrea R. Hagemann
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Carolyn K. McCourt
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Premal H. Thaker
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Dineo Khabele
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Matthew A. Powell
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - David G. Mutch
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Leah P. Shriver
- Center for Metabolomics and Isotope Tracing, Department of Chemistry, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Gary J. Patti
- Center for Metabolomics and Isotope Tracing, Department of Chemistry, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Katherine C. Fuh
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
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19
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Abstract
The daily removal of billions of apoptotic cells in the human body via the process of efferocytosis is essential for homeostasis. To allow for this continuous efferocytosis, rapid phenotypic changes occur in the phagocytes enabling them to engulf and digest the apoptotic cargo. In addition, efferocytosis is actively anti-inflammatory and promotes resolution. Owing to its ubiquitous nature and the sheer volume of cell turnover, efferocytosis is a point of vulnerability. Aberrations in efferocytosis are associated with numerous inflammatory pathologies, including atherosclerosis, cancer and infections. The recent exciting discoveries defining the molecular machinery involved in efferocytosis have opened many avenues for therapeutic intervention, with several agents now in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parul Mehrotra
- Unit for Cell Clearance in Health and Disease, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kodi S Ravichandran
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
- The Center for Cell Clearance, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
- Division of Immunobiology, Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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20
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Sun Q, Lu Z, Zhang Y, Xue D, Xia H, She J, Li F. Integrin β3 Promotes Resistance to EGFR-TKI in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer by Upregulating AXL through the YAP Pathway. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132078. [PMID: 35805163 PMCID: PMC9265629 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Integrin β3 plays a key role in the resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKI), but the development of integrin β3 inhibitors has been stalled due to the failure of phase III clinical trials for cancer treatment. Therefore, it is imperative to find a potentially effective solution to the problem of acquired resistance to EGFR-TKI for patients with integrin-β3 positive non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by exploring novel downstream targets and action mechanisms of integrin β3. In the present study, we observed that the expression of integrin β3 and AXL was significantly upregulated in erlotinib-resistant NSCLC cell lines, which was further confirmed clinically in tumor specimens from patients with NSCLC who developed acquired resistance to erlotinib. Through ectopic expression or knockdown, we found that AXL expression was positively regulated by integrin β3. In addition, integrin β3 promoted erlotinib resistance in NSCLC cells by upregulating AXL expression. Furthermore, the YAP pathway, rather than pathways associated with ERK or AKT, was involved in the regulation of AXL by integrin β3. To investigate the clinical significance of this finding, the current well-known AXL inhibitor R428 was tested, demonstrating that R428 significantly inhibited resistance to erlotinib, colony formation, epithelial–mesenchymal transformation and cell migration induced by integrin β3. In conclusion, integrin β3 could promote resistance to EGFR-TKI in NSCLC by upregulating the expression of AXL through the YAP pathway. Patients with advanced NSCLC, who are positive for integrin β3, might benefit from a combination of AXL inhibitors and EGFR-TKI therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Sun
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China; (Q.S.); (D.X.); (J.S.)
| | - Zhihua Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao 266000, China;
| | - Yanpeng Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China;
| | - Dong Xue
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China; (Q.S.); (D.X.); (J.S.)
| | - Huayu Xia
- Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China;
| | - Junjun She
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China; (Q.S.); (D.X.); (J.S.)
| | - Fanni Li
- Department of Talent Highland, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
- Correspondence:
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21
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Endocytic trafficking of GAS6-AXL complexes is associated with sustained AKT activation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:316. [PMID: 35622156 PMCID: PMC9135597 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04312-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
AXL, a TAM receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), and its ligand growth arrest-specific 6 (GAS6) are implicated in cancer metastasis and drug resistance, and cellular entry of viruses. Given this, AXL is an attractive therapeutic target, and its inhibitors are being tested in cancer and COVID-19 clinical trials. Still, astonishingly little is known about intracellular mechanisms that control its function. Here, we characterized endocytosis of AXL, a process known to regulate intracellular functions of RTKs. Consistent with the notion that AXL is a primary receptor for GAS6, its depletion was sufficient to block GAS6 internalization. We discovered that upon receptor ligation, GAS6–AXL complexes were rapidly internalized via several endocytic pathways including both clathrin-mediated and clathrin-independent routes, among the latter the CLIC/GEEC pathway and macropinocytosis. The internalization of AXL was strictly dependent on its kinase activity. In comparison to other RTKs, AXL was endocytosed faster and the majority of the internalized receptor was not degraded but rather recycled via SNX1-positive endosomes. This trafficking pattern coincided with sustained AKT activation upon GAS6 stimulation. Specifically, reduced internalization of GAS6–AXL upon the CLIC/GEEC downregulation intensified, whereas impaired recycling due to depletion of SNX1 and SNX2 attenuated AKT signaling. Altogether, our data uncover the coupling between AXL endocytic trafficking and AKT signaling upon GAS6 stimulation. Moreover, our study provides a rationale for pharmacological inhibition of AXL in antiviral therapy as viruses utilize GAS6–AXL-triggered endocytosis to enter cells.
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22
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Engelsen AST, Lotsberg ML, Abou Khouzam R, Thiery JP, Lorens JB, Chouaib S, Terry S. Dissecting the Role of AXL in Cancer Immune Escape and Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Inhibition. Front Immunol 2022; 13:869676. [PMID: 35572601 PMCID: PMC9092944 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.869676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development and implementation of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICI) in clinical oncology have significantly improved the survival of a subset of cancer patients with metastatic disease previously considered uniformly lethal. However, the low response rates and the low number of patients with durable clinical responses remain major concerns and underscore the limited understanding of mechanisms regulating anti-tumor immunity and tumor immune resistance. There is an urgent unmet need for novel approaches to enhance the efficacy of ICI in the clinic, and for predictive tools that can accurately predict ICI responders based on the composition of their tumor microenvironment. The receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) AXL has been associated with poor prognosis in numerous malignancies and the emergence of therapy resistance. AXL is a member of the TYRO3-AXL-MERTK (TAM) kinase family. Upon binding to its ligand GAS6, AXL regulates cell signaling cascades and cellular communication between various components of the tumor microenvironment, including cancer cells, endothelial cells, and immune cells. Converging evidence points to AXL as an attractive molecular target to overcome therapy resistance and immunosuppression, supported by the potential of AXL inhibitors to improve ICI efficacy. Here, we review the current literature on the prominent role of AXL in regulating cancer progression, with particular attention to its effects on anti-tumor immune response and resistance to ICI. We discuss future directions with the aim to understand better the complex role of AXL and TAM receptors in cancer and the potential value of this knowledge and targeted inhibition for the benefit of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnete S. T. Engelsen
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers and Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Maria L. Lotsberg
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers and Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Raefa Abou Khouzam
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jean-Paul Thiery
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers and Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
- Inserm, UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Villejuif, France
| | - James B. Lorens
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers and Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Salem Chouaib
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
- Inserm, UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Villejuif, France
- Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Faculty of Medicine, University Paris Sud, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Stéphane Terry
- Inserm, UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Villejuif, France
- Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Faculty of Medicine, University Paris Sud, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Research Department, Inovarion, Paris, France
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23
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Majumder A, Hosseinian S, Stroud M, Adhikari E, Saller JJ, Smith MA, Zhang G, Agarwal S, Creixell M, Meyer BS, Kinose F, Bowers K, Fang B, Stewart PA, Welsh EA, Boyle TA, Meyer AS, Koomen JM, Haura EB. Integrated Proteomics-Based Physical and Functional Mapping of AXL Kinase Signaling Pathways and Inhibitors Define Its Role in Cell Migration. Mol Cancer Res 2022; 20:542-555. [PMID: 35022314 PMCID: PMC8983558 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-21-0275] [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: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To better understand the signaling complexity of AXL, a member of the tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) receptor tyrosine kinase family, we created a physical and functional map of AXL signaling interactions, phosphorylation events, and target-engagement of three AXL tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). We assessed AXL protein complexes using proximity-dependent biotinylation (BioID), effects of AXL TKI on global phosphoproteins using mass spectrometry, and target engagement of AXL TKI using activity-based protein profiling. BioID identifies AXL-interacting proteins that are mostly involved in cell adhesion/migration. Global phosphoproteomics show that AXL inhibition decreases phosphorylation of peptides involved in phosphatidylinositol-mediated signaling and cell adhesion/migration. Comparison of three AXL inhibitors reveals that TKI RXDX-106 inhibits pAXL, pAKT, and migration/invasion of these cells without reducing their viability, while bemcentinib exerts AXL-independent phenotypic effects on viability. Proteomic characterization of these TKIs demonstrates that they inhibit diverse targets in addition to AXL, with bemcentinib having the most off-targets. AXL and EGFR TKI cotreatment did not reverse resistance in cell line models of erlotinib resistance. However, a unique vulnerability was identified in one resistant clone, wherein combination of bemcentinib and erlotinib inhibited cell viability and signaling. We also show that AXL is overexpressed in approximately 30% to 40% of nonsmall but rarely in small cell lung cancer. Cell lines have a wide range of AXL expression, with basal activation detected rarely. IMPLICATIONS Our study defines mechanisms of action of AXL in lung cancers which can be used to establish assays to measure drug targetable active AXL complexes in patient tissues and inform the strategy for targeting it's signaling as an anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anurima Majumder
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Sina Hosseinian
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Mia Stroud
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Emma Adhikari
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - James J. Saller
- Department of Pathology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Matthew A. Smith
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Guolin Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Shruti Agarwal
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | | | - Benjamin S. Meyer
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Fumi Kinose
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Kiah Bowers
- Department of Proteomics and Metabolomics Core, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Bin Fang
- Department of Proteomics and Metabolomics Core, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Paul A. Stewart
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Eric A. Welsh
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Theresa A. Boyle
- Department of Pathology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | | | - John M. Koomen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Eric B. Haura
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612
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24
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Shen JZ, Qiu Z, Wu Q, Zhang G, Harris R, Sun D, Rantala J, Barshop WD, Zhao L, Lv D, Won KA, Wohlschlegel J, Sangfelt O, Laman H, Rich JN, Spruck C. A FBXO7/EYA2-SCF FBXW7 axis promotes AXL-mediated maintenance of mesenchymal and immune evasion phenotypes of cancer cells. Mol Cell 2022; 82:1123-1139.e8. [PMID: 35182481 PMCID: PMC8934274 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A mesenchymal tumor phenotype associates with immunotherapy resistance, although the mechanism is unclear. Here, we identified FBXO7 as a maintenance regulator of mesenchymal and immune evasion phenotypes of cancer cells. FBXO7 bound and stabilized SIX1 co-transcriptional regulator EYA2, stimulating mesenchymal gene expression and suppressing IFNα/β, chemokines CXCL9/10, and antigen presentation machinery, driven by AXL extracellular ligand GAS6. Ubiquitin ligase SCFFBXW7 antagonized this pathway by promoting EYA2 degradation. Targeting EYA2 Tyr phosphatase activity decreased mesenchymal phenotypes and enhanced cancer cell immunogenicity, resulting in attenuated tumor growth and metastasis, increased infiltration of cytotoxic T and NK cells, and enhanced anti-PD-1 therapy response in mouse tumor models. FBXO7 expression correlated with mesenchymal and immune-suppressive signatures in patients with cancer. An FBXO7-immune gene signature predicted immunotherapy responses. Collectively, the FBXO7/EYA2-SCFFBXW7 axis maintains mesenchymal and immune evasion phenotypes of cancer cells, providing rationale to evaluate FBXO7/EYA2 inhibitors in combination with immune-based therapies to enhance onco-immunotherapy responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Z Shen
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Zhixin Qiu
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Qiulian Wu
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Guoxin Zhang
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA 92037, USA
| | - Rebecca Harris
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Dahui Sun
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | - William D Barshop
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Linjie Zhao
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Deguan Lv
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | | | - James Wohlschlegel
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Olle Sangfelt
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Heike Laman
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Jeremy N Rich
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA 92037, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Charles Spruck
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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25
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Zdżalik-Bielecka D, Kozik K, Poświata A, Jastrzębski K, Jakubik M, Miączyńska M. Bemcentinib and Gilteritinib Inhibit Cell Growth and Impair the Endo-Lysosomal and Autophagy Systems in an AXL-Independent Manner. Mol Cancer Res 2022; 20:446-455. [PMID: 34782372 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-21-0444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AXL, a receptor tyrosine kinase from the TAM (TYRO3 AXL and MER) subfamily, and its ligand growth arrest-specific 6 (GAS6) are implicated in pathogenesis of a wide array of cancers, acquisition of resistance to diverse anticancer therapies and cellular entry of viruses. The continuous development of AXL inhibitors for treatment of patients with cancer and COVID-19 underscores the need to better characterize the cellular effects of AXL targeting. In the present study, we compared the cellular phenotypes of CRISPR-Cas9-induced depletion of AXL and its pharmacological inhibition with bemcentinib, LDC1267 and gilteritinib. Specifically, we evaluated GAS6-AXL signaling, cell viability and invasion, the endo-lysosomal system and autophagy in glioblastoma cells. We showed that depletion of AXL but not of TYRO3 inhibited GAS6-induced phosphorylation of downstream signaling effectors, AKT and ERK1/2, indicating that AXL is a primary receptor for GAS6. AXL was also specifically required for GAS6-dependent increase in cell viability but was dispensable for viability of cells grown without exogenous addition of GAS6. Furthermore, we revealed that LDC1267 is the most potent and specific inhibitor of AXL activation among the tested compounds. Finally, we found that, in contrast to AXL depletion and its inhibition with LDC1267, cell treatment with bemcentinib and gilteritinib impaired the endo-lysosomal and autophagy systems in an AXL-independent manner. IMPLICATIONS Altogether, our findings are of high clinical importance as we discovered that two clinically advanced AXL inhibitors, bemcentinib and gilteritinib, may display AXL-independent cellular effects and toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Zdżalik-Bielecka
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamila Kozik
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agata Poświata
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamil Jastrzębski
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Jakubik
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Miączyńska
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
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26
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AXL Receptor Tyrosine Kinase as a Promising Therapeutic Target Directing Multiple Aspects of Cancer Progression and Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030466. [PMID: 35158733 PMCID: PMC8833413 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Metastasis is a complex process that requires the acquisition of certain traits by cancer cells as well as the cooperation of several non-neoplastic cells that populate the stroma. Cancer-related deaths are predominantly associated with complications arising from metastases. Limiting metastasis therefore represents an important clinical challenge. The receptor tyrosine kinase AXL is required at many steps of the metastatic cascade and contributes to tumor microenvironment deregulation. In this review, we describe how AXL contributes to metastatic progression by governing various biological processes in cancer cells and in stromal cells, highlighting the potential of its inhibition. Abstract The receptor tyrosine kinase AXL is emerging as a key player in tumor progression and metastasis and its expression correlates with poor survival in a plethora of cancers. While studies have shown the benefits of AXL inhibition for the treatment of metastatic cancers, additional roles for AXL in cancer progression are still being explored. This review discusses recent advances in understanding AXL’s functions in different tumor compartments including cancer, vascular, and immune cells. AXL is required at multiple steps of the metastatic cascade where its activation in cancer cells leads to EMT, invasion, survival, proliferation and therapy resistance. AXL activation in cancer cells and various stromal cells also results in tumor microenvironment deregulation, leading to modulation of angiogenesis, fibrosis, immune response and hypoxia. A better understanding of AXL’s role in these processes could lead to new therapeutic approaches that would benefit patients suffering from metastatic diseases.
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27
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Van de Walle T, Cools L, Mangelinckx S, D'hooghe M. Recent contributions of quinolines to antimalarial and anticancer drug discovery research. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 226:113865. [PMID: 34655985 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Quinoline, a privileged scaffold in medicinal chemistry, has always been associated with a multitude of biological activities. Especially in antimalarial and anticancer research, quinoline played (and still plays) a central role, giving rise to the development of an array of quinoline-containing pharmaceuticals in these therapeutic areas. However, both diseases still affect millions of people every year, pointing to the necessity of new therapies. Quinolines have a long-standing history as antimalarial agents, but established quinoline-containing antimalarial drugs are now facing widespread resistance of the Plasmodium parasite. Nevertheless, as evidenced by a massive number of recent literature contributions, they are still of great value for future developments in this field. On the other hand, the number of currently approved anticancer drugs containing a quinoline scaffold are limited, but a strong increase and interest in quinoline compounds as potential anticancer agents can be seen in the last few years. In this review, a literature overview of recent contributions made by quinoline-containing compounds as potent antimalarial or anticancer agents is provided, covering publications between 2018 and 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Van de Walle
- SynBioC Research Group, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lore Cools
- SynBioC Research Group, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sven Mangelinckx
- SynBioC Research Group, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Matthias D'hooghe
- SynBioC Research Group, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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28
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Yan D, Earp HS, DeRyckere D, Graham DK. Targeting MERTK and AXL in EGFR Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5639. [PMID: 34830794 PMCID: PMC8616094 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MERTK and AXL are members of the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases and are abnormally expressed in 69% and 93% of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs), respectively. Expression of MERTK and/or AXL provides a survival advantage for NSCLC cells and correlates with lymph node metastasis, drug resistance, and disease progression in patients with NSCLC. The TAM receptors on host tumor infiltrating cells also play important roles in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Thus, MERTK and AXL are attractive biologic targets for NSCLC treatment. Here, we will review physiologic and oncologic roles for MERTK and AXL with an emphasis on the potential to target these kinases in NSCLCs with activating EGFR mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yan
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (D.Y.); (D.D.)
| | - H. Shelton Earp
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (D.Y.); (D.D.)
| | - Douglas K. Graham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (D.Y.); (D.D.)
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29
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Chang H, An R, Li X, Lang X, Feng J, Lv M. Anti-Axl monoclonal antibodies attenuate the migration of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:749. [PMID: 34539853 PMCID: PMC8436363 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.13010] [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: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase, anexelekto (Axl) is involved in tumor cell growth, migration and invasion, and has been associated with chemotherapy resistance, which makes it an attractive target for cancer therapy. In total, six Axl-targeted monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and two antibody-drug conjugates have been reported in the last 10 years, which have been shown to have bioactivity in inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and migration. The Axl external cell domain (Axl−ECD), consisting of 426 amino acids, has always been used as an antigen in the screening process for all six of these Axl-targeted mAbs. However, the Axl functional domain, which interacts with its natural ligand, growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6), is only a small part of the Axl−ECD. Antibodies targeting the Axl functional domain may efficiently block Gas6-Axl binding and attenuate its downstream signals and activities. To the best of our knowledge, no mAbs targeting the Axl functional domain have been reported. In the present study, a major Axl functional domain interacting with Gas6 was determined using bioinformatics and structural biology methods. In MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell assays, anti-Axl mAbs targeting this relatively specific Axl functional domain almost completely neutralized the stimulation of Gas6 in both Axl phosphorylation and cell migration assays, and showed similar activity to the positive control drug R428 (a small molecular tyrosine kinase inhibitor of Axl currently in phase II clinical trials) in the cell migration assay. Given the important role of Axl in tumor development and chemotherapy resistance, Axl-targeted mAbs could be used to inhibit tumor cells directly, as well as reduce the development of chemotherapy resistance by blocking Axl activity. The application of Axl-targeted mAbs combined with chemotherapy provides a promising treatment strategy for patients with tumors, particularly those with triple-negative breast cancer, for whom no targeted therapy is currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chang
- Institute of Medical Technology, Suzhou Vocational Health College, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, P.R. China.,College of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050200, P.R. China
| | - Ran An
- College of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050200, P.R. China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050051, P.R. China
| | - Xinying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoling Lang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Jiannan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Ming Lv
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Laboratory of Immunology, Institute of Military Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
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30
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Accelerating AXL targeting for TNBC therapy. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2021; 139:106057. [PMID: 34403827 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2021.106057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The tyrosine kinase receptor AXL of the TAM (TYRO3, AXL and MERTK) family is considered as a promising therapeutic target for different hematological cancers and solid tumors. AXL is involved in multiple pro-tumorigenic processes including cell migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and stemness, and recent studies demonstrated its impact on cancer metastasis and drug resistance. Extensive studies on AXL have highlighted its unique characteristics and physiological functions and suggest that targeting of AXL could be beneficial in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. In this mini review, we discuss possible outcomes of AXL targeting either alone or together with other therapeutic agents and emphasize its impact on triple negative breast cancer (TNBC).
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31
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Zaman A, Bivona TG. Targeting AXL in NSCLC. LUNG CANCER (AUCKLAND, N.Z.) 2021; 12:67-79. [PMID: 34408519 PMCID: PMC8364399 DOI: 10.2147/lctt.s305484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
State-of-the-art cancer precision medicine approaches involve targeted inactivation of chemically and immunologically addressable vulnerabilities that often yield impressive initial anti-tumor responses in patients. Nonetheless, these responses are overshadowed by therapy resistance that follows. AXL, a receptor tyrosine kinase with bona fide oncogenic capacity, has been associated with the emergence of resistance in an array of cancers with varying pathophysiology and cellular origins, including in non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs). Here in this review, we summarize AXL biology during normal homeostasis, oncogenic development and therapy resistance with a focus on NSCLC. In the context of NSCLC therapy resistance, we delineate AXL's role in mediating resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) deployed against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as well as other notable oncogenes and to chemotherapeutics. We also discuss the current understanding of AXL's role in mediating cell-biological variables that function as important modifiers of therapy resistance such as epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), the tumor microenvironment and tumor heterogeneity. We also catalog and discuss a set of effective pharmacologic tools that are emerging to strategically perturb AXL mediated resistance programs in NSCLC. Finally, we enumerate ongoing and future exciting precision medicine approaches targeting AXL as well as challenges in this regard. We highlight that a holistic understanding of AXL biology in NSCLC may allow us to predict and improve targeted therapeutic strategies, such as through polytherapy approaches, potentially against a broad spectrum of NSCLC sub-types to forestall tumor evolution and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aubhishek Zaman
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Trever G Bivona
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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32
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Portelinha A, Thompson S, Smith RA, Da Silva Ferreira M, Asgari Z, Knezevic A, Seshan V, de Stanchina E, Gupta S, Denis L, Younes A, Reddy S. ASN007 is a selective ERK1/2 inhibitor with preferential activity against RAS-and RAF-mutant tumors. Cell Rep Med 2021; 2:100350. [PMID: 34337566 PMCID: PMC8324497 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2021.100350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of the extracellular signal-regulated kinases ERK1 and ERK2 (ERK1/2) offers a promising therapeutic strategy in cancers harboring activated RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathways. Here, we describe an orally bioavailable and selective ERK1/2 inhibitor, ASN007, currently in clinical development for the treatment of cancer. In preclinical studies, ASN007 shows strong antiproliferative activity in tumors harboring mutations in BRAF and RAS (KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS). ASN007 demonstrates activity in a BRAFV600E mutant melanoma tumor model that is resistant to BRAF and MEK inhibitors. The PI3K inhibitor copanlisib enhances the antiproliferative activity of ASN007 both in vitro and in vivo due to dual inhibition of RAS/MAPK and PI3K survival pathways. Our data provide a rationale for evaluating ASN007 in RAS/RAF-driven tumors as well as a mechanistic basis for combining ASN007 with PI3K inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Portelinha
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Zahra Asgari
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrea Knezevic
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Venkatraman Seshan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elisa de Stanchina
- Antitumor Assessment Core, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Anas Younes
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Lymphoma Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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33
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Discovery of 5,6,7,8-tetrahydropyrido[3,4-d]pyrimidine derivatives as novel selective Axl inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2021; 48:128247. [PMID: 34271070 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2021.128247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Axl and Mer are members of the TAM (Tyro3-Axl-Mer) family of receptor tyrosine kinases. Previously, we reported that enzyme-mediated inhibition of Mer by an Axl/Mer dual inhibitor led to retinal toxicity in mice, whereas selective Axl inhibition by compound 1 did not. On the other hand, compound 1 showed low membrane permeability. Here, we designed and synthesized a novel series of 5,6,7,8-tetrahydropyrido[3,4-d]pyrimidine derivatives and evaluated their Axl and Mer inhibitory activities, leading to identification of ER-001259851-000 as a potent and selective Axl inhibitor with drug-likeness and a promising pharmacokinetic profile in mice.
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34
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Du W, Pasca di Magliano M, Zhang Y. Therapeutic Potential of Targeting Stromal Crosstalk-Mediated Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:682217. [PMID: 34290984 PMCID: PMC8287251 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.682217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The stroma-rich, immunosuppressive microenvironment is a hallmark of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA). Tumor cells and other cellular components of the tumor microenvironment, such as cancer associated fibroblasts, CD4+ T cells and myeloid cells, are linked by a web of interactions. Their crosstalk not only results in immune evasion of PDA, but also contributes to pancreatic cancer cell plasticity, invasiveness, metastasis, chemo-resistance, immunotherapy-resistance and radiotherapy-resistance. In this review, we characterize several prevalent populations of stromal cells in the PDA microenvironment and describe how the crosstalk among them drives and maintains immune suppression. We also summarize therapeutic approaches to target the stroma. With a better understanding of the complex cellular and molecular networks in PDA, strategies aimed at sensitizing PDA to chemotherapy or immunotherapy through re-programing the tumor microenvironment can be designed, and in turn lead to improved clinical treatment for pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Du
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Marina Pasca di Magliano
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Yaqing Zhang
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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35
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Inoue S, Yamane Y, Tsukamoto S, Azuma H, Nagao S, Murai N, Nishibata K, Fukushima S, Ichikawa K, Nakagawa T, Hata Sugi N, Ito D, Kato Y, Goto A, Kakiuchi D, Ueno T, Matsui J, Matsushima T. Discovery of a potent and selective Axl inhibitor in preclinical model. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 39:116137. [PMID: 33930844 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Axl and Mer are a members of the TAM (Tyro3-Axl-Mer) family of receptor tyrosine kinases, which, when activated, can promote tumor cell survival, proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and tumor-host interactions. Chronic inhibition of Mer leads to retinal toxicity in mice. Therefore, successful development of an Axl targeting agent requires ensuring that it is safe for prolonged treatment. Here, to clarify whether enzyme inhibition of Mer by a small molecule leads to retinal toxicity in mice, we designed and synthesized Axl/Mer inhibitors and Axl-selective inhibitors. We identified an Axl/Mer dual inhibitor 28a, which showed retinal toxicity at a dose of 100 mg/kg in mice. Subsequent derivatization of a pyridine derivative led to the discovery of a pyrimidine derivative, 33g, which selectively inhibited the activity of Axl over Mer without retinal toxicity at a dose of 100 mg/kg in mice. Additionally, the compound displayed in vivo anti-tumor effects without influencing body weight in a Ba/F3-Axl isogenic subcutaneous model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Inoue
- Medicinal Chemistry, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan.
| | - Yoshinobu Yamane
- Medicinal Chemistry, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Shuntaro Tsukamoto
- Biopharmacology, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Azuma
- Medicinal Chemistry, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nagao
- Medicinal Chemistry, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Norio Murai
- Medicinal Chemistry, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Kyoko Nishibata
- Biopharmacology, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Sayo Fukushima
- Biopharmacology, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Kenji Ichikawa
- Biopharmacology, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Takayuki Nakagawa
- Biopharmacology, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Naoko Hata Sugi
- Biopharmacology, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Daisuke Ito
- Biopharmacology, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Yu Kato
- Biopharmacology, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Aya Goto
- Drug Safety, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Dai Kakiuchi
- Drug Safety, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Takashi Ueno
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Junji Matsui
- Biopharmacology, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Matsushima
- Medicinal Chemistry, Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
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36
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Du W, Phinney NZ, Huang H, Wang Z, Westcott J, Toombs JE, Zhang Y, Beg MS, Wilkie TM, Lorens JB, Brekken RA. AXL Is a Key Factor for Cell Plasticity and Promotes Metastasis in Pancreatic Cancer. Mol Cancer Res 2021; 19:1412-1421. [PMID: 33811159 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-0860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA), a leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, has a high metastatic rate, and is associated with persistent immune suppression. AXL, a member of the TAM (TYRO3, AXL, MERTK) receptor tyrosine kinase family, is a driver of metastasis and immune suppression in multiple cancer types. Here we use single-cell RNA-sequencing to reveal that AXL is expressed highly in tumor cells that have a mesenchymal-like phenotype and that AXL expression correlates with classic markers of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. We demonstrate that AXL deficiency extends survival, reduces primary and metastatic burden, and enhances sensitivity to gemcitabine in an autochthonous model of PDA. PDA in AXL-deficient mice displayed a more differentiated histology, higher nucleoside transporter expression, and a more active immune microenvironment compared with PDA in wild-type mice. Finally, we demonstrate that AXL-positive poorly differentiated tumor cells are critical for PDA progression and metastasis, emphasizing the potential of AXL as a therapeutic target in PDA. IMPLICATIONS: These studies implicate AXL as a marker of undifferentiated PDA cells and a target for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Du
- Department of Surgery and Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Natalie Z Phinney
- Department of Surgery and Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Huocong Huang
- Department of Surgery and Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Zhaoning Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jill Westcott
- Department of Surgery and Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jason E Toombs
- Department of Surgery and Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Yuqing Zhang
- Department of Surgery and Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Muhammad S Beg
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Thomas M Wilkie
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - James B Lorens
- Department of Biomedicine, Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, Norwegian Centre of Excellence, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Rolf A Brekken
- Department of Surgery and Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas. .,Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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37
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Ramkumar K, Stewart CA, Cargill KR, Corte CMD, Wang Q, Shen L, Diao L, Cardnell RJ, Peng DH, Rodriguez BL, Fan YH, Heymach JV, Wang J, Gay CM, Gibbons DL, Byers LA. AXL Inhibition Induces DNA Damage and Replication Stress in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells and Promotes Sensitivity to ATR Inhibitors. Mol Cancer Res 2021; 19:485-497. [PMID: 33172976 PMCID: PMC7925356 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-0414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AXL, a TAM (TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK) family receptor tyrosine kinase, is increasingly being recognized as a key determinant of resistance to targeted therapies, as well as chemotherapy and radiation in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and other cancers. We further show here that high levels of AXL and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition were frequently expressed in subsets of both treatment-naïve and treatment-relapsed NSCLC. Previously, we and others have demonstrated a role for AXL in mediating DNA damage response (DDR), as well as resistance to inhibition of WEE1, a replication stress response kinase. Here, we show that BGB324 (bemcentinib), a selective small-molecule AXL inhibitor, caused DNA damage and induced replication stress, indicated by ATR/CHK1 phosphorylation, more significantly in TP53-deficient NSCLC cell lines. Similar effects were also observed in large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) cell lines. High AXL protein levels were also associated with resistance to ATR inhibition. Combined inhibition of AXL and ATR significantly decreased cell proliferation of NSCLC and LCNEC cell lines. Mechanistically, combined inhibition of AXL and ATR significantly increased RPA32 hyperphosphorylation and DNA double-strand breaks and induced markers of mitotic catastrophe. Notably, NSCLC cell lines with low levels of SLFN11, a known predictive biomarker for platinum and PARP inhibitor sensitivity, were more sensitive to AXL/ATR cotargeting. These findings demonstrate a novel and unexpected role for AXL in replication stress tolerance, with potential therapeutic implications. IMPLICATIONS: These findings demonstrate that the combination of AXL and ATR inhibitors could be a promising therapeutic combination for NSCLC, LCNEC, and other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavya Ramkumar
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - C. Allison Stewart
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kasey R. Cargill
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Carminia M. Della Corte
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA,Current affiliation: University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Qi Wang
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Li Shen
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lixia Diao
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Robert J. Cardnell
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - David H. Peng
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA,Current affiliation: Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - B. Leticia Rodriguez
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - You-Hong Fan
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - John V. Heymach
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA,Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Carl M. Gay
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Don L. Gibbons
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA,Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lauren A. Byers
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA,Corresponding author: Lauren A. Byers, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 432, Houston, Texas, 77030. Phone: (713) 745-2982; Fax: (713) 792-1220;
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38
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MNK1 and MNK2 enforce expression of E2F1, FOXM1, and WEE1 to drive soft tissue sarcoma. Oncogene 2021; 40:1851-1867. [PMID: 33564073 PMCID: PMC7946644 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01661-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcoma (STS) is a heterogeneous disease that arises from connective tissues. Clinical outcome of patients with advanced tumors especially de-differentiated liposarcoma and uterine leiomyosarcoma remains unsatisfactory, despite intensive treatment regimens including maximal surgical resection, radiation, and chemotherapy. MAP kinase-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 and 2 (MNK1/2) have been shown to contribute to oncogenic translation via phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E). However, little is known about the role of MNK1/2 and their downstream targets in STS. In this study, we show that depletion of either MNK1 or MNK2 suppresses cell viability, anchorage-independent growth, and tumorigenicity of STS cells. We also identify a compelling antiproliferative efficacy of a novel, selective MNK inhibitor ETC-168. Cellular responsiveness of STS cells to ETC-168 correlates positively with that of phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 (RPS6). Mirroring MNK1/2 silencing, ETC-168 treatment strongly blocks eIF4E phosphorylation and represses expression of sarcoma-driving onco-proteins including E2F1, FOXM1, and WEE1. Moreover, combination of ETC-168 and MCL1 inhibitor S63845 exerts a synergistic antiproliferative activity against STS cells. In summary, our study reveals crucial roles of MNK1/2 and their downstream targets in STS tumorigenesis. Our data encourage further clinical translation of MNK inhibitors for STS treatment.
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39
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AXL Receptor in Breast Cancer: Molecular Involvement and Therapeutic Limitations. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228419. [PMID: 33182542 PMCID: PMC7696061 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer was one of the first malignancies to benefit from targeted therapy, i.e., treatments directed against specific markers. Inhibitors against HER2 are a significant example and they improved the life expectancy of a large cohort of patients. Research on new biomarkers, therefore, is always current and important. AXL, a member of the TYRO-3, AXL and MER (TAM) subfamily, is, today, considered a predictive and prognostic biomarker in many tumor contexts, primarily breast cancer. Its oncogenic implications make it an ideal target for the development of new pharmacological agents; moreover, its recent role as immune-modulator makes AXL particularly attractive to researchers involved in the study of interactions between cancer and the tumor microenvironment (TME). All these peculiarities characterize AXL as compared to other members of the TAM family. In this review, we will illustrate the biological role played by AXL in breast tumor cells, highlighting its molecular and biological features, its involvement in tumor progression and its implication as a target in ongoing clinical trials.
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40
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Abu-Thuraia A, Goyette MA, Boulais J, Delliaux C, Apcher C, Schott C, Chidiac R, Bagci H, Thibault MP, Davidson D, Ferron M, Veillette A, Daly RJ, Gingras AC, Gratton JP, Côté JF. AXL confers cell migration and invasion by hijacking a PEAK1-regulated focal adhesion protein network. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3586. [PMID: 32681075 PMCID: PMC7368075 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17415-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant expression of receptor tyrosine kinase AXL is linked to metastasis. AXL can be activated by its ligand GAS6 or by other kinases, but the signaling pathways conferring its metastatic activity are unknown. Here, we define the AXL-regulated phosphoproteome in breast cancer cells. We reveal that AXL stimulates the phosphorylation of a network of focal adhesion (FA) proteins, culminating in faster FA disassembly. Mechanistically, AXL phosphorylates NEDD9, leading to its binding to CRKII which in turn associates with and orchestrates the phosphorylation of the pseudo-kinase PEAK1. We find that PEAK1 is in complex with the tyrosine kinase CSK to mediate the phosphorylation of PAXILLIN. Uncoupling of PEAK1 from AXL signaling decreases metastasis in vivo, but not tumor growth. Our results uncover a contribution of AXL signaling to FA dynamics, reveal a long sought-after mechanism underlying AXL metastatic activity, and identify PEAK1 as a therapeutic target in AXL positive tumors. AXL receptor tyrosine kinase has a role in metastasis but the mechanism is unclear. In this study, the authors show that AXL activation can control focal adhesion dynamics via PEAK1 and that AXL-mediated PEAK1 phosphorylation is required for metastasis of triple negative breast cancer cells in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afnan Abu-Thuraia
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada.,Molecular Biology Programs, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Marie-Anne Goyette
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada.,Molecular Biology Programs, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Jonathan Boulais
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada
| | - Carine Delliaux
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada
| | - Chloé Apcher
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada.,Molecular Biology Programs, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Céline Schott
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada.,Molecular Biology Programs, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Rony Chidiac
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Halil Bagci
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 0C7, Canada.,Institute of Biochemistry, ETH Zürich, Otto-Stern-Weg 3, 8093, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Dominique Davidson
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada
| | - Mathieu Ferron
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada.,Molecular Biology Programs, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - André Veillette
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada.,Molecular Biology Programs, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Roger J Daly
- Cancer Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Anne-Claude Gingras
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X5, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Jean-Philippe Gratton
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Jean-François Côté
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM), Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada. .,Molecular Biology Programs, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada. .,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 0C7, Canada. .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3C 3J7, Canada.
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41
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Gas6/Axl Signaling Pathway in the Tumor Immune Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071850. [PMID: 32660000 PMCID: PMC7408754 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinases have been shown to dysregulate a number of pathways associated with tumor development, progression, and metastasis. Axl is a receptor tyrosine kinase expressed in many cancer types and has been associated with therapy resistance and poor clinical prognosis and outcomes. In addition, Axl and its ligand growth arrest specific 6 (Gas6) protein are expressed by a number of host cells. The Gas6/Axl signaling pathway has been implicated in the promotion of tumor cell proliferation, survival, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. As a result, Axl is an attractive, novel therapeutic target to impair multiple stages of tumor progression from both neoplastic and host cell axes. This review focuses on the role of the Gas6/Axl signaling pathway in promoting the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, as immune evasion is considered one of the hallmarks of cancer. The review discusses the structure and activation of the Gas6/Axl signaling pathway, GAS6 and AXL expression patterns in the tumor microenvironment, mechanisms of Axl-mediated tumor immune response, and the role of Gas6/Axl signaling in immune cell recruitment.
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42
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Simond AM, Muller WJ. In vivo modeling of the EGFR family in breast cancer progression and therapeutic approaches. Adv Cancer Res 2020; 147:189-228. [PMID: 32593401 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Modeling breast cancer through the generation of genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) has become the gold standard in the study of human breast cancer. Notably, the in vivo modeling of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family has been key to the development of therapeutics and has helped better understand the signaling pathways involved in cancer initiation, progression and metastasis. The HER2/ErbB2 receptor is a member of the EGFR family and 20% of breast cancers are found to belong in the HER2-positive histological subtype. Historical and more recent advances in the field have shaped our understanding of HER2-positive breast cancer signaling and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Simond
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - William J Muller
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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43
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Gooding AJ, Schiemann WP. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Programs and Cancer Stem Cell Phenotypes: Mediators of Breast Cancer Therapy Resistance. Mol Cancer Res 2020; 18:1257-1270. [PMID: 32503922 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) programs play essential functions in normal morphogenesis and organogenesis, including that occurring during mammary gland development and glandular regeneration. Historically, EMT programs were believed to reflect a loss of epithelial gene expression signatures and morphologies that give way to those associated with mesenchymal cells and their enhanced migratory and invasive behaviors. However, accumulating evidence now paints EMT programs as representing a spectrum of phenotypic behaviors that also serve to enhance cell survival, immune tolerance, and perhaps even metastatic dormancy. Equally important, the activation of EMT programs in transformed mammary epithelial cells not only enhances their acquisition of invasive and metastatic behaviors, but also expands their generation of chemoresistant breast cancer stem cells (BCSC). Importantly, the net effect of these events results in the appearance of recurrent metastatic lesions that remain refractory to the armamentarium of chemotherapies and targeted therapeutic agents deployed against advanced stage breast cancers. Here we review the molecular and cellular mechanisms that contribute to the pathophysiology of EMT programs in human breast cancers and how these events impact their "stemness" and acquisition of chemoresistant phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J Gooding
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - William P Schiemann
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.
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44
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Wu H, Wang Y, Li T, Liu J, Wang X. A Cascade synthesis of 11
bH
‐Imidazo[1,2‐
c
]isoquinolino[2,1‐
a
]quinazoline derivatives catalyzed by AgOTf. J Heterocycl Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/jhet.3940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Green Synthesis for Functional MaterialsJiangsu Normal University Xuzhou People's Republic of China
| | - Yi‐Chun Wang
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Green Synthesis for Functional MaterialsJiangsu Normal University Xuzhou People's Republic of China
| | - Tuan‐Jie Li
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Green Synthesis for Functional MaterialsJiangsu Normal University Xuzhou People's Republic of China
| | - Jian‐Quan Liu
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Green Synthesis for Functional MaterialsJiangsu Normal University Xuzhou People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang‐Shan Wang
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Green Synthesis for Functional MaterialsJiangsu Normal University Xuzhou People's Republic of China
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45
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Ireland L, Luckett T, Schmid MC, Mielgo A. Blockade of Stromal Gas6 Alters Cancer Cell Plasticity, Activates NK Cells, and Inhibits Pancreatic Cancer Metastasis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:297. [PMID: 32174917 PMCID: PMC7056881 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is one of the deadliest cancers due to its aggressive and metastatic nature. PDA is characterized by a rich tumor stroma with abundant macrophages, fibroblasts, and collagen deposition that can represent up to 90% of the tumor mass. Activation of the tyrosine kinase receptor AXL and expression of its ligand growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6) correlate with a poor prognosis and increased metastasis in pancreatic cancer patients. Gas6 is a multifunctional protein that can be secreted by several cell types and regulates multiple processes, including cancer cell plasticity, angiogenesis, and immune cell functions. However, the role of Gas6 in pancreatic cancer metastasis has not been fully investigated. In these studies we find that, in pancreatic tumors, Gas6 is mainly produced by tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) and cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and that pharmacological blockade of Gas6 signaling partially reverses epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tumor cells and supports NK cell activation, thereby inhibiting pancreatic cancer metastasis. Our data suggest that Gas6 simultaneously acts on both the tumor cells and the NK cells to support pancreatic cancer metastasis. This study supports the rationale for targeting Gas6 in pancreatic cancer and use of NK cells as a potential biomarker for response to anti-Gas6 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ainhoa Mielgo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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46
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AXL as a Target in Breast Cancer Therapy. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2020; 2020:5291952. [PMID: 32148495 PMCID: PMC7042526 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5291952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AXL is a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) that has been implicated in diverse tumor-promoting processes such as proliferation, migration, invasion, survival, and apoptosis. AXL therefore plays a role in cancer progression, and AXL has been implicated in a wide variety of malignancies from solid tumors to hematopoietic cancers where it is often associated with poor prognosis. In cancer, AXL has been shown to promote epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis formation, drug resistance, and a role for AXL in modulation of the tumor microenvironment and immune response has been identified. In light of these activities multiple AXL inhibitors have been developed, and several of these have entered clinical trials in the U.S. In breast cancer, high levels of AXL expression have been observed. The role of AXL in cancer with a focus on therapeutic implications for breast cancer is discussed.
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47
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Kosok M, Alli-Shaik A, Bay BH, Gunaratne J. Comprehensive Proteomic Characterization Reveals Subclass-Specific Molecular Aberrations within Triple-negative Breast Cancer. iScience 2020; 23:100868. [PMID: 32058975 PMCID: PMC7015993 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.100868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer lacking targeted therapies. This is attributed to its high heterogeneity that complicates elucidation of its molecular aberrations. Here, we report identification of specific proteome expression profiles pertaining to two TNBC subclasses, basal A and basal B, through in-depth proteomics analysis of breast cancer cells. We observed that kinases and proteases displayed unique expression patterns within the subclasses. Systematic analyses of protein-protein interaction and co-regulation networks of these kinases and proteases unraveled dysregulated pathways and plausible targets for each TNBC subclass. Among these, we identified kinases AXL, PEAK1, and TGFBR2 and proteases FAP, UCHL1, and MMP2/14 as specific targets for basal B subclass, which represents the more aggressive TNBC cell lines. Our study highlights intricate mechanisms and distinct targets within TNBC and emphasizes that these have to be exploited in a subclass-specific manner rather than a one-for-all TNBC therapy. Proteome profiling reveals functionally distinct subclasses within TNBC Kinases and proteases underlie unique functional signatures among the subclasses Kinase-protease-centric networks highlight subclass-specific molecular rewiring Protein association dysregulations reveal TNBC subclass-specific protein targets
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Kosok
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore 138673, Singapore; Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore
| | - Asfa Alli-Shaik
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Boon Huat Bay
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore
| | - Jayantha Gunaratne
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore 138673, Singapore; Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore.
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48
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Zajac O, Leclere R, Nicolas A, Meseure D, Marchiò C, Vincent-Salomon A, Roman-Roman S, Schoumacher M, Dubois T. AXL Controls Directed Migration of Mesenchymal Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2020; 9:cells9010247. [PMID: 31963783 PMCID: PMC7016818 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive form of breast cancer with high risk of relapse and metastasis. TNBC is a heterogeneous disease comprising different molecular subtypes including those with mesenchymal features. The tyrosine kinase AXL is expressed in mesenchymal cells and plays a role in drug resistance, migration and metastasis. We confirm that AXL is more expressed in mesenchymal TNBC cells compared to luminal breast cancer cells, and that its invalidation impairs cell migration while having no or little effect on cell viability. Here, we found that AXL controls directed migration. We observed that AXL displays a polarized localization at the Golgi apparatus and the leading edge of migratory mesenchymal TNBC cells. AXL co-localizes with F-actin at the front of the cells. In migratory polarized cells, the specific AXL inhibitor R428 displaces AXL and F-actin from the leading edge to a lateral area localized between the front and the rear of the cells where both are enriched in protrusions. In addition, R428 treatment disrupts the polarized localization of the Golgi apparatus towards the leading edge in migratory cells. Immunohistochemical analysis of aggressive chemo-resistant TNBC samples obtained before treatment reveals inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity of the percentage of AXL expressing tumor cells, and a preference of these cells to be in contact with the stroma. Taken together, our study demonstrates that AXL controls directed cell migration most likely by regulating cell polarity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Zajac
- Breast Cancer Biology Group, Translational Research Department, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France;
| | - Renaud Leclere
- Department of Pathology, Platform of Investigative Pathology, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France; (R.L.); (A.N.); (D.M.)
| | - André Nicolas
- Department of Pathology, Platform of Investigative Pathology, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France; (R.L.); (A.N.); (D.M.)
| | - Didier Meseure
- Department of Pathology, Platform of Investigative Pathology, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France; (R.L.); (A.N.); (D.M.)
| | - Caterina Marchiò
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Via Verdi 8, 10124 Torino TO, Italy;
- Department of Pathology, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France;
| | - Anne Vincent-Salomon
- Department of Pathology, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France;
| | - Sergio Roman-Roman
- Translational Research Department, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France;
| | - Marie Schoumacher
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation Oncology, Institut de Recherches Internationales SERVIER, 92284 Suresnes, France;
| | - Thierry Dubois
- Breast Cancer Biology Group, Translational Research Department, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-156246250
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49
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Boumahdi S, de Sauvage FJ. The great escape: tumour cell plasticity in resistance to targeted therapy. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2020; 19:39-56. [PMID: 31601994 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-019-0044-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 387] [Impact Index Per Article: 96.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The success of targeted therapies in cancer treatment has been impeded by various mechanisms of resistance. Besides the acquisition of resistance-conferring genetic mutations, reversible mechanisms that lead to drug tolerance have emerged. Plasticity in tumour cells drives their transformation towards a phenotypic state that no longer depends on the drug-targeted pathway. These drug-refractory cells constitute a pool of slow-cycling cells that can either regain drug sensitivity upon treatment discontinuation or acquire permanent resistance to therapy and drive relapse. In the past few years, cell plasticity has emerged as a mode of targeted therapy evasion in various cancers, ranging from prostate and lung adenocarcinoma to melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. Our understanding of the mechanisms that control this phenotypic switch has also expanded, revealing the crucial role of reprogramming factors and chromatin remodelling. Further deciphering the molecular basis of tumour cell plasticity has the potential to contribute to new therapeutic strategies which, combined with existing anticancer treatments, could lead to deeper and longer-lasting clinical responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soufiane Boumahdi
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
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50
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Flem-Karlsen K, McFadden E, Omar N, Haugen MH, Øy GF, Ryder T, Gullestad HP, Hermann R, Mælandsmo GM, Flørenes VA. Targeting AXL and the DNA Damage Response Pathway as a Novel Therapeutic Strategy in Melanoma. Mol Cancer Ther 2019; 19:895-905. [PMID: 31871265 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-19-0290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase AXL is found upregulated in various types of cancer, including melanoma, and correlates with an aggressive cancer phenotype, inducing cell proliferation and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. In addition, AXL has recently been linked to chemotherapy resistance, and inhibition of AXL is found to increase DNA damage and reduce expression of DNA repair proteins. In light of this, we aimed to investigate whether targeting AXL together with DNA damage response proteins would be therapeutically beneficial. Using melanoma cell lines, we observed that combined reduction of AXL and CHK1/CHK2 signaling decreased proliferation, deregulated cell-cycle progression, increased apoptosis, and reduced expression of DNA damage response proteins. Enhanced therapeutic effect of combined treatment, as compared with mono-treatment, was further observed in a patient-derived xenograft model and, of particular interest, when applying a three-dimensional ex vivo spheroid drug sensitivity assay on tumor cells harvested directly from 27 patients with melanoma lymph node metastases. Together, these results indicate that targeting AXL together with the DNA damage response pathway could be a promising treatment strategy in melanoma, and that further investigations in patient groups lacking treatment alternatives should be pursued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Flem-Karlsen
- Department of Pathology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. .,Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Erin McFadden
- Department of Pathology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nasrin Omar
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mads H Haugen
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Geir Frode Øy
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Truls Ryder
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hans Petter Gullestad
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Robert Hermann
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gunhild Mari Mælandsmo
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Vivi Ann Flørenes
- Department of Pathology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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