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Crepaldi T, Gallo S, Comoglio PM. The MET Oncogene: Thirty Years of Insights into Molecular Mechanisms Driving Malignancy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:448. [PMID: 38675409 PMCID: PMC11054789 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery and subsequent research on the MET oncogene's role in cancer onset and progression have illuminated crucial insights into the molecular mechanisms driving malignancy. The identification of MET as the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor has paved the path for characterizing the MET tyrosine kinase activation mechanism and its downstream signaling cascade. Over the past thirty years, research has established the importance of HGF/MET signaling in normal cellular processes, such as cell dissociation, migration, proliferation, and cell survival. Notably, genetic alterations that lead to the continuous activation of MET, known as constitutive activation, have been identified as oncogenic drivers in various cancers. The genetic lesions affecting MET, such as exon skipping, gene amplification, and gene rearrangements, provide valuable targets for therapeutic intervention. Moreover, the implications of MET as a resistance mechanism to targeted therapies emphasize the need for combination treatments that include MET inhibitors. The intriguing "flare effect" phenomenon, wherein MET inhibition can lead to post-treatment increases in cancer cell proliferation, underscores the dynamic nature of cancer therapeutics. In human tumors, increased protein expression often occurs without gene amplification. Various mechanisms may cause an overexpression: transcriptional upregulation induced by other oncogenes; environmental factors (such as hypoxia or radiation); or substances produced by the reactive stroma, such as inflammatory cytokines, pro-angiogenic factors, and even HGF itself. In conclusion, the journey to understanding MET's involvement in cancer onset and progression over the past three decades has not only deepened our knowledge, but has also paved the way for innovative therapeutic strategies. Selective pharmacological inactivation of MET stands as a promising avenue for achieving cancer remission, particularly in cases where MET alterations are the primary drivers of malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Crepaldi
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10143 Orbassano, Italy; (T.C.); (S.G.)
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP142, Km 3.95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Simona Gallo
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10143 Orbassano, Italy; (T.C.); (S.G.)
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP142, Km 3.95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Paolo Maria Comoglio
- IFOM ETS—The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Via Adamello 16, 20139 Milano, Italy
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2
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Lam C, Sarasohn D, Weigelt B, Zamarin D. Tumor lenvatinib addiction and withdrawal rebound response in patients with advanced endometrial cancer. Gynecol Oncol Rep 2023; 49:101258. [PMID: 37636495 PMCID: PMC10448068 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2023.101258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Combination therapy of lenvatinib, a multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), plus pembrolizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1), was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for therapy of advanced endometrial cancer. This case series highlights three patients with endometrial serous carcinoma who experienced disease stabilization or slow progression on lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab followed by rapid symptomatic growth of disease after lenvatinib discontinuation, and subsequent repeated response and symptom resolution after lenvatinib re-initiation. All patients died of disease complications 3 to 10 months after retreatment with lenvatinib. These observations highlight an important phenomenon of lenvatinib withdrawal rebound, likely driven by oncogenic signaling pathways upregulated in response to lenvatinib therapy. The findings of this case series represent a potential area for further research into the underlying mechanism for rebound and repeated response to lenvatinib, as well as strategies to mitigate disease flare related to lenvatinib withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Lam
- Gynecology Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Debra Sarasohn
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Britta Weigelt
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dmitriy Zamarin
- Division of Gynecological Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
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3
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Altintas DM, Comoglio PM. An Observatory for the MET Oncogene: A Guide for Targeted Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4672. [PMID: 37760640 PMCID: PMC10526818 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The MET proto-oncogene encodes a pivotal tyrosine kinase receptor, binding the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF, also known as scatter factor, SF) and governing essential biological processes such as organogenesis, tissue repair, and angiogenesis. The pleiotropic physiological functions of MET explain its diverse role in cancer progression in a broad range of tumors; genetic/epigenetic alterations of MET drive tumor cell dissemination, metastasis, and acquired resistance to conventional and targeted therapies. Therefore, targeting MET emerged as a promising strategy, and many efforts were devoted to identifying the optimal way of hampering MET signaling. Despite encouraging results, however, the complexity of MET's functions in oncogenesis yields intriguing observations, fostering a humbler stance on our comprehension. This review explores recent discoveries concerning MET alterations in cancer, elucidating their biological repercussions, discussing therapeutic avenues, and outlining future directions. By contextualizing the research question and articulating the study's purpose, this work navigates MET biology's intricacies in cancer, offering a comprehensive perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paolo M. Comoglio
- IFOM ETS—The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, 20139 Milano, Italy;
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4
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Lindell E, Zhong L, Zhang X. Quiescent Cancer Cells-A Potential Therapeutic Target to Overcome Tumor Resistance and Relapse. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043762. [PMID: 36835173 PMCID: PMC9959385 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Quiescent cancer cells (QCCs) are nonproliferating cells arrested in the G0 phase, characterized by ki67low and p27high. QCCs avoid most chemotherapies, and some treatments could further lead to a higher proportion of QCCs in tumors. QCCs are also associated with cancer recurrence since they can re-enter a proliferative state when conditions are favorable. As QCCs lead to drug resistance and tumor recurrence, there is a great need to understand the characteristics of QCCs, decipher the mechanisms that regulate the proliferative-quiescent transition in cancer cells, and develop new strategies to eliminate QCCs residing in solid tumors. In this review, we discussed the mechanisms of QCC-induced drug resistance and tumor recurrence. We also discussed therapeutic strategies to overcome resistance and relapse by targeting QCCs, including (i) identifying reactive quiescent cancer cells and removing them via cell-cycle-dependent anticancer reagents; (ii) modulating the quiescence-to-proliferation switch; and (iii) eliminating QCCs by targeting their unique features. It is believed that the simultaneous co-targeting of proliferating and quiescent cancer cells may ultimately lead to the development of more effective therapeutic strategies for the treatment of solid tumors.
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Berges N, Klug JH, Eicher A, Loehr J, Schwarz D, Bomke J, Leuthner B, Perrin D, Schadt O. Differences in Sustained Cellular Effects of MET inhibitors Are Driven by Prolonged Target Engagement and Lysosomal Retention. Mol Pharmacol 2023; 103:77-88. [PMID: 36400432 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.122.000590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular distribution of drug compounds is dependent on physicochemical characteristics and may have a significant bearing on the extent of target occupancy and, ultimately, drug efficacy. We assessed differences in the physicochemical profiles of MET inhibitors capmatinib, crizotinib, savolitinib, and tepotinib and their effects on cell viability and MET phosphorylation under steady-state and washout conditions (to mimic an open organic system) in a human lung cancer cell line. To examine the differences of the underlying molecular mechanisms at the receptor level, we investigated the residence time at the kinase domain and the cellular target engagement. We found that the ranking of the drugs for cell viability was different under steady-state and washout conditions and that under washout conditions, tepotinib displayed the most potent inhibition of phosphorylated MET. Postwashout effects were correlated with the partitioning of the drug into acidic subcellular compartments such as lysosomes, and the tested MET inhibitors were grouped according to their ability to access lysosomes (crizotinib and tepotinib) or not (capmatinib and savolitinib). Reversible lysosomal retention may represent a valuable intracellular storage mechanism for MET inhibitors, enabling prolonged receptor occupancy in dynamic, open-physiologic systems and may act as a local drug reservoir. The use of washout conditions to simulate open systems and investigate intracellular drug distribution is a useful characterization step that deserves further investigation. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Generally, determination of potency and receptor occupancy is performed under steady-state conditions. In vivo conditions are more complex due to concentration differences between compartments and equilibrium processes. Experiments under steady state cannot explore effects such as sustained target inhibition. This study has shown that differences between MET inhibitors are observable by applying washout conditions to in vitro assays. This important finding applies to most compound classes and may inspire readers to rethink their assay designs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Berges
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Anna Eicher
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Jennifer Loehr
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Daniel Schwarz
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Joerg Bomke
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | | | - Oliver Schadt
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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6
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An mTOR feedback loop mediates the 'flare' ('rebound') response to MET tyrosine kinase inhibition. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1378. [PMID: 36697438 PMCID: PMC9876934 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28648-3] [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: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted therapy significantly impairs tumour growth but suffers from limitations, among which the 'flare' ('rebound') effect. Among cancers driven by tyrosine kinase receptors, those relying on alterations of the MET oncogene benefit from treatment by specific inhibitors. Previously, we reported that discontinuation of MET tyrosine kinase receptor inhibition causes 'rebound' activation of the oncogene, with a post-treatment transient hyperphosphorylation phase that culminates into a dramatic increase in cancer cell proliferation. The molecular mechanisms behind the 'MET burst' after treatment cessation are unknown but critically important for patients. Here we identify a positive feedback loop mediated by the AKT/mTOR pathway leading to (a) enhanced MET translation by activating p70S6K and 4EBP1 and (b) MET hyper-phosphorylation by inactivation of the tyrosine-phosphatase PTP1B. The latter effect is due to m-TOR-driven PTP1B phosphorylation of the inhibitory residues Ser50 and Ser378. These data provide in vitro evidence for the use of mTOR inhibitors to prevent the 'flare effect' in MET targeted therapy, with potential applicative ramifications for patient clinical management.
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Kattan C, Kattan J. Accommodation with anticancer drug shortage: A Lebanese harmful solution. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1055113. [PMID: 36741703 PMCID: PMC9891306 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1055113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
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8
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Martinelli I, Modica C, Chiriaco C, Basilico C, Hughes JM, Corso S, Giordano S, Comoglio PM, Vigna E. hOA-DN30: a highly effective humanized single-arm MET antibody inducing remission of ‘MET-addicted’ cancers. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:112. [PMID: 35351166 PMCID: PMC8962049 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02320-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The tyrosine kinase receptor encoded by the MET oncogene is a major player in cancer. When MET is responsible for the onset and progression of the transformed phenotype (MET-addicted cancers), an efficient block of its oncogenic activation results in potent tumor growth inhibition. Methods Here we describe a molecular engineered MET antibody (hOA-DN30) and validate its pharmacological activity in MET-addicted cancer models in vitro and in vivo. Pharmacokinetics and safety profile in non-human primates have also been assessed. Results hOA-DN30 efficiently impaired MET activation and the intracellular signalling cascade by dose and time dependent removal of the receptor from the cell surface (shedding). In vitro, the antibody suppressed cell growth by blocking cell proliferation and by concomitantly inducing cell death in multiple MET-addicted human tumor cell lines. In mice xenografts, hOA-DN30 induced an impressive reduction of tumor masses, with a wide therapeutic window. Moreover, the antibody showed high therapeutic efficacy against patient-derived xenografts generated from MET-addicted gastric tumors, leading to complete tumor regression and long-lasting effects after treatment discontinuation. Finally, hOA-DN30 showed a highly favorable pharmacokinetic profile and substantial tolerability in Cynomolgus monkeys. Conclusions hOA-DN30 unique ability to simultaneously erase cell surface MET and release the ‘decoy’ receptor extracellular region results in a paramount MET blocking action. Its remarkable efficacy in a large number of pre-clinical models, as well as its pharmacological features and safety profile in non-human primates, strongly envisage a successful clinical application of this novel single-arm MET therapeutic antibody for the therapy of MET-addicted cancers. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-022-02320-6.
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9
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Takebe N, Naqash AR, O'Sullivan Coyne G, Kummar S, Do K, Bruns A, Juwara L, Zlott J, Rubinstein L, Piekarz R, Sharon E, Streicher H, Mittra A, Miller SB, Ji J, Wilsker D, Kinders RJ, Parchment RE, Chen L, Chang TC, Das B, Mugundu G, Doroshow JH, Chen AP. Safety, Antitumor Activity, and Biomarker Analysis in a Phase I Trial of the Once-daily Wee1 Inhibitor Adavosertib (AZD1775) in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2021; 27:3834-3844. [PMID: 33863809 PMCID: PMC8282703 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-0329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The Wee1 kinase inhibitor adavosertib abrogates cell-cycle arrest, leading to cell death. Prior testing of twice-daily adavosertib in patients with advanced solid tumors determined the recommended phase II dose (RPh2D). Here, we report results for once-daily adavosertib. PATIENTS AND METHODS A 3 + 3 dose-escalation design was used, with adavosertib given once daily on days 1 to 5 and 8 to 12 in 21-day cycles. Molecular biomarkers of Wee1 activity, including tyrosine 15-phosphorylated Cdk1/2 (pY15-Cdk), were assessed in paired tumor biopsies. Whole-exome sequencing and RNA sequencing of remaining tumor tissue identified potential predictive biomarkers. RESULTS Among the 42 patients enrolled, the most common toxicities were gastrointestinal and hematologic; dose-limiting toxicities were grade 4 hematologic toxicity and grade 3 fatigue. The once-daily RPh2D was 300 mg. Six patients (14%) had confirmed partial responses: four ovarian, two endometrial. Adavosertib plasma exposures were similar to those from twice-daily dosing. On cycle 1 day 8 (pre-dose), tumor pY15-Cdk levels were higher than baseline in four of eight patients, suggesting target rebound during the day 5 to 8 dosing break. One patient who progressed rapidly had a tumor WEE1 mutation and potentially compensatory PKMYT1 overexpression. Baseline CCNE1 overexpression occurred in both of two responding patients, only one of whom had CCNE1 amplification, and in zero of three nonresponding patients. CONCLUSIONS We determined the once-daily adavosertib RPh2D and observed activity in patients with ovarian or endometrial carcinoma, including two with baseline CCNE1 mRNA overexpression. Future studies will determine whether CCNE1 overexpression is a predictive biomarker for adavosertib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Takebe
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
- Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Geraldine O'Sullivan Coyne
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
- Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Shivaani Kummar
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
- Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Khanh Do
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
- Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ashley Bruns
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Lamin Juwara
- Clinical Monitoring Research Program, Clinical Research Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Jennifer Zlott
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Larry Rubinstein
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Richard Piekarz
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Elad Sharon
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Howard Streicher
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Arjun Mittra
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sarah B Miller
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jiuping Ji
- Clinical Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers Program, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Deborah Wilsker
- Clinical Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers Program, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Robert J Kinders
- Clinical Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers Program, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Ralph E Parchment
- Clinical Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers Program, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Li Chen
- Molecular Characterization Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Ting-Chia Chang
- Molecular Characterization Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Biswajit Das
- Molecular Characterization Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Ganesh Mugundu
- AstraZeneca, Clinical Pharmacology, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - James H Doroshow
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
- Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alice P Chen
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland.
- Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
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Lupo B, Sassi F, Pinnelli M, Galimi F, Zanella ER, Vurchio V, Migliardi G, Gagliardi PA, Puliafito A, Manganaro D, Luraghi P, Kragh M, Pedersen MW, Horak ID, Boccaccio C, Medico E, Primo L, Nichol D, Spiteri I, Heide T, Vatsiou A, Graham TA, Élez E, Argiles G, Nuciforo P, Sottoriva A, Dienstmann R, Pasini D, Grassi E, Isella C, Bertotti A, Trusolino L. Colorectal cancer residual disease at maximal response to EGFR blockade displays a druggable Paneth cell-like phenotype. Sci Transl Med 2020; 12:eaax8313. [PMID: 32759276 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aax8313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Blockade of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) causes tumor regression in some patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). However, residual disease reservoirs typically remain even after maximal response to therapy, leading to relapse. Using patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), we observed that mCRC cells surviving EGFR inhibition exhibited gene expression patterns similar to those of a quiescent subpopulation of normal intestinal secretory precursors with Paneth cell characteristics. Compared with untreated tumors, these pseudodifferentiated tumor remnants had reduced expression of genes encoding EGFR-activating ligands, enhanced activity of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and HER3, and persistent signaling along the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway. Clinically, properties of residual disease cells from the PDX models were detected in lingering tumors of responsive patients and in tumors of individuals who had experienced early recurrence. Mechanistically, residual tumor reprogramming after EGFR neutralization was mediated by inactivation of Yes-associated protein (YAP), a master regulator of intestinal epithelium recovery from injury. In preclinical trials, Pan-HER antibodies minimized residual disease, blunted PI3K signaling, and induced long-term tumor control after treatment discontinuation. We found that tolerance to EGFR inhibition is characterized by inactivation of an intrinsic lineage program that drives both regenerative signaling during intestinal repair and EGFR-dependent tumorigenesis. Thus, our results shed light on CRC lineage plasticity as an adaptive escape mechanism from EGFR-targeted therapy and suggest opportunities to preemptively target residual disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Lupo
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Francesco Sassi
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Marika Pinnelli
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Francesco Galimi
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Vurchio
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Giorgia Migliardi
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Paolo Armando Gagliardi
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Alberto Puliafito
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Daria Manganaro
- IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20139 Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Luraghi
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Carla Boccaccio
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Enzo Medico
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Luca Primo
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Daniel Nichol
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London SW7 3RP, UK
| | | | - Timon Heide
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London SW7 3RP, UK
| | | | - Trevor A Graham
- Centre for Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Elena Élez
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guillem Argiles
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paolo Nuciforo
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Diego Pasini
- IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20139 Milano, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Elena Grassi
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Claudio Isella
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Bertotti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy.
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Livio Trusolino
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy.
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Torino, Italy
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11
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Mallmann-Gottschalk N, Sax Y, Kimmig R, Lang S, Brandau S. EGFR-Specific Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Modifies NK Cell-Mediated Antitumoral Activity against Ovarian Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194693. [PMID: 31546690 PMCID: PMC6801374 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The adverse prognosis of most patients with ovarian cancer is related to recurrent disease caused by resistance to chemotherapeutic and targeted therapeutics. Besides their direct activity against tumor cells, monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) also influence the antitumoral activity of immune cells, which has important implications for the design of immunotherapies. In this preclinical study, we treated different ovarian cancer cell lines with anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) TKIs and co-incubated them with natural killer (NK) cells. We studied treatment-related structural and functional changes on tumor and immune cells in the presence of the anti-EGFR antibody cetuximab and investigated NK-mediated antitumoral activity. We show that long-term exposure of ovarian cancer cells to TKIs leads to reduced responsiveness of intrinsically sensitive cancer cells over time. Inversely, neither long-term treatment with TKIs nor cetuximab could overcome the intrinsic resistance of certain ovarian cancer cells to anti-EGFR agents. Remarkably, tumor cells pretreated with anti-EGFR TKIs showed increased sensitivity towards NK cell-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). In contrast, the cytokine secretion of NK cells was reduced by TKI sensitization. Our data suggest that sensitization of tumor cells by anti-EGFR TKIs differentially modulates interactions with NK cells. These data have important implications for the design of chemo-immuno combination therapies in this tumor entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Mallmann-Gottschalk
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany.
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany.
| | - Yvonne Sax
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany.
| | - Rainer Kimmig
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany.
| | - Stephan Lang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany.
| | - Sven Brandau
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany.
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12
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Pupo E, Avanzato D, Middonti E, Bussolino F, Lanzetti L. KRAS-Driven Metabolic Rewiring Reveals Novel Actionable Targets in Cancer. Front Oncol 2019; 9:848. [PMID: 31544066 PMCID: PMC6730590 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors driven by mutant KRAS are among the most aggressive and refractory to treatment. Unfortunately, despite the efforts, targeting alterations of this GTPase, either directly or by acting on the downstream signaling cascades, has been, so far, largely unsuccessful. However, recently, novel therapeutic opportunities are emerging based on the effect that this oncogenic lesion exerts in rewiring the cancer cell metabolism. Cancer cells that become dependent on KRAS-driven metabolic adaptations are sensitive to the inhibition of these metabolic routes, revealing novel therapeutic windows of intervention. In general, mutant KRAS fosters tumor growth by shifting cancer cell metabolism toward anabolic pathways. Depending on the tumor, KRAS-driven metabolic rewiring occurs by up-regulating rate-limiting enzymes involved in amino acid, fatty acid, or nucleotide biosynthesis, and by stimulating scavenging pathways such as macropinocytosis and autophagy, which, in turn, provide building blocks to the anabolic routes, also maintaining the energy levels and the cell redox potential (1). This review will discuss the most recent findings on mutant KRAS metabolic reliance in tumor models of pancreatic and non-small-cell lung cancer, also highlighting the role that these metabolic adaptations play in resistance to target therapy. The effects of constitutive KRAS activation in glycolysis elevation, amino acids metabolism reprogramming, fatty acid turnover, and nucleotide biosynthesis will be discussed also in the context of different genetic landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Pupo
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Turin, Italy
| | - Daniele Avanzato
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Turin, Italy
| | - Emanuele Middonti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Turin, Italy
| | - Federico Bussolino
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Turin, Italy
| | - Letizia Lanzetti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Turin, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Turin, Italy
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13
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Wu Y, Fan Q, Zeng F, Zhu J, Chen J, Fan D, Li X, Duan W, Guo Q, Cao Z, Briley-Saebo K, Li C, Tao X. Peptide-Functionalized Nanoinhibitor Restrains Brain Tumor Growth by Abrogating Mesenchymal-Epithelial Transition Factor (MET) Signaling. NANO LETTERS 2018; 18:5488-5498. [PMID: 30067910 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.8b01879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Malignant gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors and are associated with aggressive growth, high morbidity, and mortality. Aberrant mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET) activation occurs in approximately 30% of glioma patients and correlates with poor prognosis, elevated invasion, and increased drug resistance. Therefore, MET has emerged as an attractive target for glioma therapy. In this study, we developed a novel nanoinhibitor by conjugating MET-targeting cMBP peptides on the G4 dendrimer. Compared to the binding affinity of the free peptide ( KD = 3.96 × 10-7 M), the binding affinity of the nanoinhibitor to MET increased 3 orders of magnitude to 1.32 × 10-10 M. This nanoinhibitor efficiently reduced the proliferation and invasion of human glioblastoma U87MG cells in vitro by blocking MET signaling with remarkably attenuated levels of phosphorylated MET ( pMET) and its downstream signaling proteins, such as pAKT and pERK1/2. Although no obvious therapeutic effect was observed after treatment with free cBMP peptide, in vivo T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a significant delay in tumor growth after intravenous injection of the nanoinhibitor. The medium survival in mouse models was extended by 59%, which is similar to the effects of PF-04217903, a small molecule MET inhibitor currently in clinical trials. Immunoblotting studies of tumor homogenate verified that the nanoinhibitor restrained glioma growth by blocking MET downstream signaling. pMET and its downstream proteins pAKT and pERK1/2, which are involved in the survival and invasion of cancer cells, decreased in the nanoinhibitor-treated group by 44.2%, 62.2%, and 32.3%, respectively, compared with those in the control group. In summary, we developed a peptide-functionalized MET nanoinhibitor that showed extremely high binding affinity to MET and effectively inhibited glioma growth by blocking MET downstream signaling. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of therapeutic inhibition of glioma growth by blocking MET signaling with a novel nanoinhibitor. Compared to antibodies and chemical inhibitors in clinical trials, the nanoinhibitor blocks MET signaling and provides a new approach for the treatment of glioma with the advantages of high efficiency, affordability, and, most importantly, potentially reduced drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingwei Wu
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200011 , China
| | - Qi Fan
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200011 , China
| | - Feng Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy , Fudan University , Shanghai 201203 , China
| | - Jinyu Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200011 , China
| | - Jian Chen
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy , Fudan University , Shanghai 201203 , China
| | - Dandan Fan
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy , Fudan University , Shanghai 201203 , China
| | - Xinwei Li
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy , Fudan University , Shanghai 201203 , China
| | - Wenjia Duan
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy , Fudan University , Shanghai 201203 , China
| | - Qinghua Guo
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy , Fudan University , Shanghai 201203 , China
| | - Zhonglian Cao
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy , Fudan University , Shanghai 201203 , China
| | - Karen Briley-Saebo
- Department of Radiology , the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Wright Center of Innovation in Biomedical Imaging , Columbus , Ohio 43210 , United States
| | - Cong Li
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy , Fudan University , Shanghai 201203 , China
| | - Xiaofeng Tao
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200011 , China
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14
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Kinesin-2 Controls the Motility of RAB5 Endosomes and Their Association with the Spindle in Mitosis. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092575. [PMID: 30200238 PMCID: PMC6163544 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RAB5 is a small GTPase that belongs to the wide family of Rab proteins and localizes on early endosomes. In its active GTP-bound form, RAB5 recruits downstream effectors that, in turn, are responsible for distinct aspects of early endosome function, including their movement along microtubules. We previously reported that, at the onset of mitosis, RAB5positive vesicles cluster around the spindle poles and, during metaphase, move along spindle microtubules. RNAi-mediated depletion of the three RAB5 isoforms delays nuclear envelope breakdown at prophase and severely affects chromosome alignment and segregation. Here we show that depletion of the Kinesin-2 motor complex impairs long-range movement of RAB5 endosomes in interphase cells and prevents localization of these vesicles at the spindle during metaphase. Similarly to the effect caused by RAB5 depletion, functional ablation of Kinesin-2 delays nuclear envelope breakdown resulting in prolonged prophase. Altogether these findings suggest that endosomal transport at the onset of mitosis is required to control timing of nuclear envelope breakdown.
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15
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Avanzato D, Pupo E, Ducano N, Isella C, Bertalot G, Luise C, Pece S, Bruna A, Rueda OM, Caldas C, Di Fiore PP, Sapino A, Lanzetti L. High USP6NL Levels in Breast Cancer Sustain Chronic AKT Phosphorylation and GLUT1 Stability Fueling Aerobic Glycolysis. Cancer Res 2018; 78:3432-3444. [PMID: 29691252 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-3018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
USP6NL, also named RN-tre, is a GTPase-activating protein involved in control of endocytosis and signal transduction. Here we report that USP6NL is overexpressed in breast cancer, mainly of the basal-like/integrative cluster 10 subtype. Increased USP6NL levels were accompanied by gene amplification and were associated with worse prognosis in the METABRIC dataset, retaining prognostic value in multivariable analysis. High levels of USP6NL in breast cancer cells delayed endocytosis and degradation of the EGFR, causing chronic AKT (protein kinase B) activation. In turn, AKT stabilized the glucose transporter GLUT1 at the plasma membrane, increasing aerobic glycolysis. In agreement, elevated USP6NL sensitized breast cancer cells to glucose deprivation, indicating that their glycolytic capacity relies on this protein. Depletion of USP6NL accelerated EGFR/AKT downregulation and GLUT1 degradation, impairing cell proliferation exclusively in breast cancer cells that harbored increased levels of USP6NL. Overall, these findings argue that USP6NL overexpression generates a metabolic rewiring that is essential to foster the glycolytic demand of breast cancer cells and promote their proliferation.Significance: USP6NL overexpression leads to glycolysis addiction of breast cancer cells and presents a point of metabolic vulnerability for therapeutic targeting in a subset of aggressive basal-like breast tumors.Graphical Abstract: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/78/13/3432/F1.large.jpg Cancer Res; 78(13); 3432-44. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Avanzato
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Emanuela Pupo
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Nadia Ducano
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Claudio Isella
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bertalot
- Molecular Medicine Program, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Luise
- Molecular Medicine Program, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Pece
- Molecular Medicine Program, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alejandra Bruna
- Department of Oncology and Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Oscar M Rueda
- Department of Oncology and Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Carlos Caldas
- Department of Oncology and Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Pier Paolo Di Fiore
- Molecular Medicine Program, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- IFOM, The FIRC Institute for Molecular Oncology Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Sapino
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino Medical School, Torino, Italy
| | - Letizia Lanzetti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Torino, Italy.
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
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16
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Comoglio PM, Trusolino L, Boccaccio C. Known and novel roles of the MET oncogene in cancer: a coherent approach to targeted therapy. Nat Rev Cancer 2018; 18:341-358. [PMID: 29674709 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-018-0002-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The MET oncogene encodes an unconventional receptor tyrosine kinase with pleiotropic functions: it initiates and sustains neoplastic transformation when genetically altered ('oncogene addiction') and fosters cancer cell survival and tumour dissemination when transcriptionally activated in the context of an adaptive response to adverse microenvironmental conditions ('oncogene expedience'). Moreover, MET is an intrinsic modulator of the self-renewal and clonogenic ability of cancer stem cells ('oncogene inherence'). Here, we provide the latest findings on MET function in cancer by focusing on newly identified genetic abnormalities in tumour cells and recently described non-mutational MET activities in stromal cells and cancer stem cells. We discuss how MET drives cancer clonal evolution and progression towards metastasis, both ab initio and under therapeutic pressure. We then elaborate on the use of MET inhibitors in the clinic with a critical appraisal of failures and successes. Ultimately, we advocate a rationale to improve the outcome of anti-MET therapies on the basis of thorough consideration of the entire spectrum of MET-mediated biological responses, which implicates adequate patient stratification, meaningful biomarkers and appropriate clinical end points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo M Comoglio
- Exploratory Research and Molecular Cancer Therapy, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy.
| | - Livio Trusolino
- Translational Cancer Medicine, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Carla Boccaccio
- Cancer Stem Cell Research, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino Medical School, Candiolo, Italy
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17
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Poulsen TT, Grandal MM, Skartved NJØ, Hald R, Alifrangis L, Koefoed K, Lindsted T, Fröhlich C, Pollmann SE, Eriksen KW, Dahlman A, Jacobsen HJ, Bouquin T, Pedersen MW, Horak ID, Lantto J, Kragh M. Sym015: A Highly Efficacious Antibody Mixture against MET-Amplified Tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2017; 23:5923-5935. [PMID: 28679766 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-17-0782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Revised: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Activation of the receptor tyrosine kinase MET is associated with poor clinical outcome in certain cancers. To target MET more effectively, we developed an antagonistic antibody mixture, Sym015, consisting of two humanized mAbs directed against nonoverlapping epitopes of MET.Experimental Design/Results: We screened a large panel of well-annotated human cancer cell lines and identified a subset with highly elevated MET expression. In particular, cell lines of lung cancer and gastric cancer origin demonstrated high MET expression and activation, and Sym015 triggered degradation of MET and significantly inhibited growth of these cell lines. Next, we tested Sym015 in patient- and cell line-derived xenograft models with high MET expression and/or MET exon 14 skipping alterations, and in models harboring MET amplification as a mechanism of resistance to EGFR-targeting agents. Sym015 effectively inhibited tumor growth in all these models and was superior to an analogue of emibetuzumab, a monoclonal IgG4 antibody against MET currently in clinical development. Sym015 also induced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in vitro, suggesting that secondary effector functions contribute to the efficacy of Sym015.Retrospectively, all responsive, high MET-expressing models were scored as highly MET-amplified by in situ hybridization, pointing to MET amplification as a predictive biomarker for efficacy. Preclinical toxicology studies in monkeys showed that Sym015 was well tolerated, with a pharmacokinetic profile supporting administration of Sym015 every second or third week in humans.Conclusions: The preclinical efficacy and safety data provide a clear rationale for the ongoing clinical studies of Sym015 in patients with MET-amplified tumors. Clin Cancer Res; 23(19); 5923-35. ©2017 AACR.
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18
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Owusu BY, Thomas S, Venukadasula P, Han Z, Janetka JW, Galemmo RA, Klampfer L. Targeting the tumor-promoting microenvironment in MET-amplified NSCLC cells with a novel inhibitor of pro-HGF activation. Oncotarget 2017; 8:63014-63025. [PMID: 28968967 PMCID: PMC5609899 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted therapeutic agents, such as inhibitors of epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR), have transformed the management of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. MET-amplified NSCLC cells display resistance to EGFR-targeting agents, but are addicted to MET signaling for survival and proliferation and are sensitive to MET inhibition. However, responsive cancer cells invariably develop resistance to MET-targeted treatment. The tumor microenvironment plays a major role in resistance to anticancer therapy. We demonstrated that fibroblasts block the response of MET-amplified NSCLC cells to the MET kinase inhibitor, JNJ38877605 in an HGF-dependent manner. Thus, MET-amplified NSCLC cells become addicted to HGF upon pharmacological inhibition of MET. HGF restored phosphorylation of MET, EGFR and RON, and maintained pro-survival AKT and ERK signaling in MET-inhibited cells. We developed a small molecule inhibitor of pro-HGF activation, SRI31215, which acts as a triplex inhibitor of the pro-HGF activating proteases matriptase, hepsin and HGF activator (HGFA). SRI31215 blocked crosstalk between tumor cells and fibroblasts and overcame fibroblast-mediated resistance to MET inhibition by preventing fibroblast-mediated reactivation of AKT and ERK signaling. Structurally unrelated triplex inhibitors of matriptase, hepsin and HGFA that we developed in parallel showed similar biological activity. Our data suggest that simultaneous inhibition of HGF and MET is required to overcome resistance to MET inhibitors in MET-amplified NSCLC cells. This provides a rationale for the development of novel combination therapeutic strategies for the treatment of NSCLC patients with MET amplification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Y Owusu
- Department of Oncology Southern Research, Birmingham, AL, 35205 USA
| | - Shantasia Thomas
- Department of Oncology Southern Research, Birmingham, AL, 35205 USA
| | | | - Zhenfu Han
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110 USA
| | - James W Janetka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110 USA
| | - Robert A Galemmo
- Department of Oncology Southern Research, Birmingham, AL, 35205 USA
| | - Lidija Klampfer
- Department of Oncology Southern Research, Birmingham, AL, 35205 USA
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19
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Hepatocyte Growth Factor, a Key Tumor-Promoting Factor in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2017; 9:cancers9040035. [PMID: 28420162 PMCID: PMC5406710 DOI: 10.3390/cancers9040035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment plays a key role in tumor development and progression. Stromal cells secrete growth factors, cytokines and extracellular matrix proteins which promote growth, survival and metastatic spread of cancer cells. Fibroblasts are the predominant constituent of the tumor stroma and Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF), the specific ligand for the tyrosine kinase receptor c-MET, is a major component of their secretome. Indeed, cancer-associated fibroblasts have been shown to promote growth, survival and migration of cancer cells in an HGF-dependent manner. Fibroblasts also confer resistance to anti-cancer therapy through HGF-induced epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and activation of pro-survival signaling pathways such as ERK and AKT in tumor cells. Constitutive HGF/MET signaling in cancer cells is associated with increased tumor aggressiveness and predicts poor outcome in cancer patients. Due to its role in tumor progression and therapeutic resistance, both HGF and MET have emerged as valid therapeutic targets. Several inhibitors of MET and HGF are currently being tested in clinical trials. Preclinical data provide a strong indication that inhibitors of HGF/MET signaling overcome both primary and acquired resistance to EGFR, HER2, and BRAF targeting agents. These findings support the notion that co-targeting of cancer cells and stromal cells is required to prevent therapeutic resistance and to increase the overall survival rate of cancer patients. HGF dependence has emerged as a hallmark of therapeutic resistance, suggesting that inhibitors of biological activity of HGF should be included into therapeutic regimens of cancer patients.
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20
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Farrell PJ, Matuszkiewicz J, Balakrishna D, Pandya S, Hixon MS, Kamran R, Chu S, Lawson JD, Okada K, Hori A, Mizutani A, Iwata H, de Jong R, Hibner B, Vincent P. MET Tyrosine Kinase Inhibition Enhances the Antitumor Efficacy of an HGF Antibody. Mol Cancer Ther 2017; 16:1269-1278. [PMID: 28341789 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase therapies have proven to be efficacious in specific cancer patient populations; however, a significant limitation of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment is the emergence of resistance mechanisms leading to a transient, partial, or complete lack of response. Combination therapies using agents with synergistic activity have potential to improve response and reduce acquired resistance. Chemoreagent or TKI treatment can lead to increased expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and/or MET, and this effect correlates with increased metastasis and poor prognosis. Despite MET's role in resistance and cancer biology, MET TKI monotherapy has yielded disappointing clinical responses. In this study, we describe the biological activity of a selective, oral MET TKI with slow off-rate and its synergistic antitumor effects when combined with an anti-HGF antibody. We evaluated the combined action of simultaneously neutralizing HGF ligand and inhibiting MET kinase activity in two cancer xenograft models that exhibit autocrine HGF/MET activation. The combination therapy results in additive antitumor activity in KP4 pancreatic tumors and synergistic activity in U-87MG glioblastoma tumors. Pharmacodynamic characterization of biomarkers that correlate with combination synergy reveal that monotherapies induce an increase in the total MET protein, whereas combination therapy significantly reduces total MET protein levels and phosphorylation of 4E-BP1. These results hold promise that dual targeting of HGF and MET by combining extracellular ligand inhibitors with intracellular MET TKIs could be an effective intervention strategy for cancer patients who have acquired resistance that is dependent on total MET protein. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(7); 1269-78. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela J Farrell
- Department of Biological Sciences, Takeda California, San Diego, California.
| | | | | | - Shweta Pandya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Takeda California, San Diego, California
| | - Mark S Hixon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Takeda California, San Diego, California
| | - Ruhi Kamran
- Department of Biological Sciences, Takeda California, San Diego, California
| | - Shaosong Chu
- Department of Chemistry, Takeda California, San Diego, California
| | - J David Lawson
- Department of Computational Sciences and Crystallography, Takeda California, San Diego, California
| | - Kengo Okada
- Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Companies Ltd, Shonan, Japan
| | - Akira Hori
- Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Companies Ltd, Shonan, Japan
| | - Akio Mizutani
- Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Companies Ltd, Shonan, Japan
| | - Hidehisa Iwata
- Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Companies Ltd, Shonan, Japan
| | - Ron de Jong
- Department of Biological Sciences, Takeda California, San Diego, California
| | - Barbara Hibner
- Oncology Biology, Takeda Boston, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Patrick Vincent
- Department of Biological Sciences, Takeda California, San Diego, California
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21
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Srivastava AK, Navas T, Herrick WG, Hollingshead MG, Bottaro DP, Doroshow JH, Parchment RE. Effective implementation of novel MET pharmacodynamic assays in translational studies. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2017; 5:3. [PMID: 28164088 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2016.12.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
MET tyrosine kinase (TK) dysregulation is significantly implicated in many types of cancer. Despite over 20 years of drug development to target MET in cancers, a pure anti-MET therapeutic has not yet received market approval. The failure of two recently concluded phase III trials point to a major weakness in biomarker strategies to identify patients who will benefit most from MET therapies. The capability to interrogate oncogenic mutations in MET via circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) provides an important advancement in identification and stratification of patients for MET therapy. However, a wide range in type and frequency of these mutations suggest there is a need to carefully link these mutations to MET dysregulation, at least in proof-of-concept studies. In this review, we elaborate how we can utilize recently developed and validated pharmacodynamic biomarkers of MET not only to show target engagement, but more importantly to quantitatively measure MET dysregulation in tumor tissues. The MET assay endpoints provide evidence of both canonical and non-canonical MET signaling, can be used as "effect markers" to define biologically effective doses (BEDs) for molecularly targeted drugs, confirm mechanism-of-action in testing combination of drugs, and establish whether a diagnostic test is reporting MET dysregulation. We have established standard operating procedures for tumor biopsy collections to control pre-analytical variables that have produced valid results in proof-of-concept studies. The reagents and procedures are made available to the research community for potential implementation on multiple platforms such as ELISA, quantitative immunofluorescence assay (qIFA), and immuno-MRM assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apurva K Srivastava
- Laboratory of Human Toxicology and Pharmacology, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Tony Navas
- Laboratory of Human Toxicology and Pharmacology, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - William G Herrick
- Laboratory of Human Toxicology and Pharmacology, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Melinda G Hollingshead
- Biological Testing Branch, Developmental Therapeutics Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Donald P Bottaro
- Urologic Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - James H Doroshow
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ralph E Parchment
- Laboratory of Human Toxicology and Pharmacology, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
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