1
|
Kong Y, Jiang R, Zhou H, Ge M, Lin H, Wang Y, Yao R, Wang Q, Liang X, Li J, Zhou X. PHF12 regulates HDAC1 to promote tumorigenesis via EGFR/AKT signaling pathway in non-small cell lung cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:689. [PMID: 39075515 PMCID: PMC11287983 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05488-x] [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: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer stands as the second most prevalent malignant neoplasm worldwide. Addressing the underlying mechanisms propelling the progression of non-small cell lung cancer is of paramount importance. In this study, we have elucidated the pivotal role of PHF12 in this context. MATERIALS AND METHODS We harnessed clinical lung cancer tissue samples and non-small cell lung cancer cell lines to discern the expression pattern of PHF12. In vitro assays probing cell proliferation were conducted to substantiate the functional impact of PHF12. Furthermore, an in vivo Xenograft model was employed to dissect the role of PHF12. Employing ChIP assays and qRT-PCR, we delved into the intricate binding dynamics between PHF12 and HDAC1. Mechanistic insights into the PHF12-HDAC1 axis in lung cancer progression were pursued via RNA-seq and GSEA analyses. RESULTS Notably, PHF12 exhibited a substantial upregulation within tumor tissue, concomitant with its correlation to HDAC1. The trilogy of cell proliferation assays, transwell assays, and the Xenograft model collectively underscored the promoting influence of PHF12 on lung cancer proliferation, both in vitro and in vivo. The ChIP assay unveiled the transcriptional regulatory role of PHF12 in governing HDAC1 expression. This correlation extended to both mRNA and protein levels. PHF12 promotes NSCLC progression through regulating HDCA1 expression. Intriguingly, the rescue of function within NSCLC cell lines post PHF12 knockdown was achievable through HDAC1 overexpression. Additionally, our findings unveiled the capacity of the PHF12-HDAC1 axis to activate the EGFR/AKT signaling pathway, thereby further corroborating its significance in lung cancer progression. CONCLUSION Our study identified PHF12 as an oncogenic role in lung cancer proliferation and migration for the first time. PHF12 transcriptionally regulate HDAC1 and activate EGFR/AKT signaling pathway in NSCLC progression. PHF12 may serve as an important target in lung cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiru Kong
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Rongrong Jiang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Hui Zhou
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Mengxi Ge
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Hao Lin
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Rongrong Yao
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Xiaohua Liang
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China.
| | - Xinli Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhu M, Yu M, Meng Y, Yang J, Wang X, Li L, Liang Y, Kong F. HER3 receptor and its role in the therapeutic management of metastatic breast cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:665. [PMID: 39020378 PMCID: PMC11253420 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05445-8] [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: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) poses a significant threat to women's health and is a major cause of malignant neoplasms in women. Human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)3, an integral member of the ErbB/HER receptor tyrosine kinase family, is a crucial activator of the phosphoinositide-3 kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway. HER3 overexpression significantly contributes to the development of resistance to drugs targeting other HER receptors, such as HER2 and epidermal growth factor receptors, and plays a crucial role in the onset and progression of mBC. Recently, numerous HER3-targeted therapeutic agents, such as monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), bispecific antibodies (bAbs), and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), have emerged. However, the efficacy of HER3-targeted mAbs and bAbs is limited when used individually, and their combination may result in toxic adverse effects. On the other hand, ADCs are cytotoxic to cancer cells and can bind to target cells through antibodies, which highlights their use in targeted HER3 therapy for mBC. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in HER3 research, historical initiatives, and innovative approaches in targeted HER3 therapy for metastatic breast cancer. Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of current methods may yield valuable insights and lessons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meiying Zhu
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anshanxi Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Cancer Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Minghui Yu
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anshanxi Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuan Meng
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anshanxi Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anshanxi Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuerui Wang
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anshanxi Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Longhui Li
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anshanxi Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yangyueying Liang
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anshanxi Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Fanming Kong
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anshanxi Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Momeny M, Tienhaara M, Sharma M, Chakroborty D, Varjus R, Takala I, Merisaari J, Padzik A, Vogt A, Paatero I, Elenius K, Laajala TD, Kurppa KJ, Westermarck J. DUSP6 inhibition overcomes neuregulin/HER3-driven therapy tolerance in HER2+ breast cancer. EMBO Mol Med 2024; 16:1603-1629. [PMID: 38886591 PMCID: PMC11251193 DOI: 10.1038/s44321-024-00088-0] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite clinical benefits of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in cancer, most tumors can reactivate proliferation under TKI therapy. Here we present transcriptional profiling of HER2+ breast cancer cells transitioning from dormant drug tolerant cells to re-proliferating cells under continuous HER2 inhibitor (HER2i) therapy. Focusing on phosphatases, expression of dual-specificity phosphatase DUSP6 was found inhibited in dormant cells, but strongly induced upon regrowth. DUSP6 expression also selectively associated with poor patient survival in HER2+ breast cancers. DUSP6 overexpression conferred apoptosis resistance, whereas its pharmacological blockade prevented therapy tolerance development under HER2i therapy. DUSP6 targeting also synergized with clinically used HER2i combination therapies. Mechanistically DUSP6 is a positive regulator of HER3 expression, and its impact on HER2i tolerance was mediated by neuregulin-HER3 axis. In vivo, genetic targeting of DUSP6 reduced tumor growth in brain metastasis model, whereas its pharmacological targeting induced synthetic lethal therapeutic effect in combination with HER2i. Collectively this work demonstrates that DUSP6 drives escape from HER2i-induced dormancy, and that DUSP6 is a druggable target to overcome HER3-driven TKI resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Majid Momeny
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.
| | - Mari Tienhaara
- Medicity Research Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Mukund Sharma
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Deepankar Chakroborty
- Medicity Research Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Roosa Varjus
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Iina Takala
- Medicity Research Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Joni Merisaari
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Artur Padzik
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Andreas Vogt
- University of Pittsburgh Drug Discovery Institute, Department of Computational and Systems Biology, Pittsburgh Technology Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ilkka Paatero
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Klaus Elenius
- Medicity Research Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Teemu D Laajala
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Kari J Kurppa
- Medicity Research Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jukka Westermarck
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zeng H, Wang W, Zhang L, Lin Z. HER3-targeted therapy: the mechanism of drug resistance and the development of anticancer drugs. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2024; 7:14. [PMID: 38835349 PMCID: PMC11149107 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2024.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 3 (HER3), which is part of the HER family, is aberrantly expressed in various human cancers. Since HER3 only has weak tyrosine kinase activity, when HER3 ligand neuregulin 1 (NRG1) or neuregulin 2 (NRG2) appears, activated HER3 contributes to cancer development and drug resistance by forming heterodimers with other receptors, mainly including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Inhibition of HER3 and its downstream signaling, including PI3K/AKT, MEK/MAPK, JAK/STAT, and Src kinase, is believed to be necessary to conquer drug resistance and improve treatment efficiency. Until now, despite multiple anti-HER3 antibodies undergoing preclinical and clinical studies, none of the HER3-targeted therapies are licensed for utilization in clinical cancer treatment because of their safety and efficacy. Therefore, the development of HER3-targeted drugs possessing safety, tolerability, and sensitivity is crucial for clinical cancer treatment. This review summarizes the progress of the mechanism of HER3 in drug resistance, the HER3-targeted therapies that are conducted in preclinical and clinical trials, and some emerging molecules that could be used as future designed drugs for HER3, aiming to provide insights for future research and development of anticancer drugs targeting HER3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huilan Zeng
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Cancer Center, Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 404000, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, Chongqing 402260, China
| | - Zhenghong Lin
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Song PN, Lynch SE, DeMellier CT, Mansur A, Gallegos CA, Wright BD, Hartman YE, Minton LE, Lapi SE, Warram JM, Sorace AG. Dual anti-HER2/EGFR inhibition synergistically increases therapeutic effects and alters tumor oxygenation in HNSCC. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3771. [PMID: 38355949 PMCID: PMC10866896 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52897-5] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and hypoxia are associated with radioresistance. The goal of this study is to study the synergy of anti-HER2, trastuzumab, and anti-EGFR, cetuximab, and characterize the tumor microenvironment components that may lead to increased radiation sensitivity with dual anti-HER2/EGFR therapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging ([89Zr]-panitumumab and [89Zr]-pertuzumab) was used to characterize EGFR and HER2 in HNSCC cell line tumors. HNSCC cells were treated with trastuzumab, cetuximab, or combination followed by radiation to assess for viability and radiosensitivity (colony forming assay, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry). In vivo, [18F]-FMISO-PET imaging was used to quantify changes in oxygenation during treatment. Bliss Test of Synergy was used to identify combination treatment synergy. Quantifying EGFR and HER2 receptor expression revealed a 50% increase in heterogeneity of HER2 relative to EGFR. In vitro, dual trastuzumab-cetuximab therapy shows significant decreases in DNA damage response and increased response to radiation therapy (p < 0.05). In vivo, tumors treated with dual anti-HER2/EGFR demonstrated decreased tumor hypoxia, when compared to single agent therapies. Dual trastuzumab-cetuximab demonstrates synergy and can affect tumor oxygenation in HNSCC. Combination trastuzumab-cetuximab modulates the tumor microenvironment through reductions in tumor hypoxia and induces sustained treatment synergy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick N Song
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
- Graduate Biomedical Sciences, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Shannon E Lynch
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
- Graduate Biomedical Sciences, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Chloe T DeMellier
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Ameer Mansur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Carlos A Gallegos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Brian D Wright
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Yolanda E Hartman
- Department of Otolaryngology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Laura E Minton
- Department of Otolaryngology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Suzanne E Lapi
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Jason M Warram
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Anna G Sorace
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA.
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Majumder A. HER3: Toward the Prognostic Significance, Therapeutic Potential, Current Challenges, and Future Therapeutics in Different Types of Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:2517. [PMID: 37947595 PMCID: PMC10648638 DOI: 10.3390/cells12212517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 3 (HER3) is the only family member of the EGRF/HER family of receptor tyrosine kinases that lacks an active kinase domain (KD), which makes it an obligate binding partner with other receptors for its oncogenic role. When HER3 is activated in a ligand-dependent (NRG1/HRG) or independent manner, it can bind to other receptors (the most potent binding partner is HER2) to regulate many biological functions (growth, survival, nutrient sensing, metabolic regulation, etc.) through the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway. HER3 has been found to promote tumorigenesis, tumor growth, and drug resistance in different cancer types, especially breast and non-small cell lung cancer. Given its ubiquitous expression across different solid tumors and role in oncogenesis and drug resistance, there has been a long effort to target HER3. As HER3 cannot be targeted through its KD with small-molecule kinase inhibitors via the conventional method, pharmaceutical companies have used various other approaches, including blocking either the ligand-binding domain or extracellular domain for dimerization with other receptors. The development of treatment options with anti-HER3 monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, and different combination therapies showed limited clinical efficiency for various reasons. Recent reports showed that the extracellular domain of HER3 is not required for its binding with other receptors, which raises doubt about the efforts and applicability of the development of the HER3-antibodies for treatment. Whereas HER3-directed antibody-drug conjugates showed potentiality for treatment, these drugs are still under clinical trial. The currently understood model for dimerization-induced signaling remains incomplete due to the absence of the crystal structure of HER3 signaling complexes, and many lines of evidence suggest that HER family signaling involves more than the interaction of two members. This review article will significantly expand our knowledge of HER3 signaling and shed light on developing a new generation of drugs that have fewer side effects than the current treatment regimen for these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Avisek Majumder
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Weng W, Meng T, Pu J, Ma L, Shen Y, Wang Z, Pan R, Wang M, Chen C, Wang L, Zhang J, Zhou B, Shao S, Qian Y, Liu S, Hu W, Meng X. AMT-562, a Novel HER3-targeting Antibody-Drug Conjugate, Demonstrates a Potential to Broaden Therapeutic Opportunities for HER3-expressing Tumors. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:1013-1027. [PMID: 37302522 PMCID: PMC10477830 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
HER3 is a unique member of the EGFR family of tyrosine kinases, which is broadly expressed in several cancers, including breast, lung, pancreatic, colorectal, gastric, prostate, and bladder cancers and is often associated with poor patient outcomes and therapeutic resistance. U3-1402/Patritumab-GGFG-DXd is the first successful HER3-targeting antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) with clinical efficacy in non-small cell lung cancer. However, over 60% of patients are nonresponsive to U3-1402 due to low target expression levels and responses tend to be in patients with higher target expression levels. U3-1402 is also ineffective in more challenging tumor types such as colorectal cancer. AMT-562 was generated by a novel anti-HER3 antibody Ab562 and a modified self-immolative PABC spacer (T800) to conjugate exatecan. Exatecan showed higher cytotoxic potency than its derivative DXd. Ab562 was selected because of its moderate affinity for minimizing potential toxicity and improving tumor penetration purposes. Both alone or in combination therapies, AMT-562 showed potent and durable antitumor response in low HER3 expression xenograft and heterogeneous patient-derived xenograft/organoid models, including digestive system and lung tumors representing of unmet needs. Combination therapies pairing AMT-562 with therapeutic antibodies, inhibitors of CHEK1, KRAS, and tyrosine kinase inhibitor showed higher synergistic efficacy than Patritumab-GGFG-DXd. Pharmacokinetic and safety profiles of AMT-562 were favorable and the highest dose lacking severe toxicity was 30 mg/kg in cynomolgus monkeys. AMT-562 has potential to be a superior HER3-targeting ADC with a higher therapeutic window that can overcome resistance to generate higher percentage and more durable responses in U3-1402-insensitive tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weining Weng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Multitude Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Tao Meng
- MabCare Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
- HySlink Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Junyi Pu
- School of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R. China
| | - Linjie Ma
- Multitude Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yi Shen
- Multitude Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | | | - Rong Pan
- Abmart Inc, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | | | - Caiwei Chen
- Multitude Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Lijun Wang
- Multitude Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | | | - Biao Zhou
- Multitude Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Siyuan Shao
- Shanghai OneTar Biomedicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yu Qian
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Shuhui Liu
- Multitude Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Wenhao Hu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xun Meng
- Multitude Therapeutics, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Abmart Inc, Shanghai, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kim YS, Yuan J, Dewar A, Borg JP, Threadgill DW, Sun X, Dey SK. An unanticipated discourse of HB-EGF with VANGL2 signaling during embryo implantation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2302937120. [PMID: 37155852 PMCID: PMC10193979 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2302937120] [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: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Implantation is the first direct encounter between the embryo and uterus during pregnancy, and Hbegf is the earliest known molecular signaling for embryo-uterine crosstalk during implantation. The downstream effectors of heparin-binding EGF (HB-EGF) in implantation remain elusive due to the complexity of EGF receptor family. This study shows that the formation of implantation chamber (crypt) triggered by HB-EGF is disrupted by uterine deletion of Vangl2, a key planar cell polarity component (PCP). We found that HB-EGF binds to ERBB2 and ERBB3 to recruit VANGL2 for tyrosine phosphorylation. Using in vivo models, we show that uterine VAGL2 tyrosine phosphorylation is suppressed in Erbb2/Erbb3 double conditional knockout mice. In this context, severe implantation defects in these mice lend support to the critical role of HB-EGF-ERBB2/3-VANGL2 in establishing a two-way dialogue between the blastocyst and uterus. In addition, the result addresses an outstanding question how VANGL2 is activated during implantation. Taken together, these observations reveal that HB-EGF regulates the implantation process by influencing uterine epithelial cell polarity comprising VANGL2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yeon Sun Kim
- Center of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45299
| | - Jia Yuan
- Center of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45299
| | - Amanda Dewar
- Center of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45299
| | - Jean-Paul Borg
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Aix Marseille Univ UM105, Inst Paoli Calmettes, UMR7258 CNRS, U1068 INSERM, Cell Polarity, Cell Signalling and Cancer - Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 13009Marseille, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, 73231Paris, France
| | - David W. Threadgill
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX77843
| | - Xiaofei Sun
- Center of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45299
| | - Sudhansu K. Dey
- Center of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45299
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yuan T, Ni P, Zhang Z, Wu D, Sun G, Zhang H, Chen B, Wang X, Cheng Z. Targeting BET proteins inhibited the growth of non-small cell lung carcinoma through downregulation of Met expression. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:622-633. [PMID: 36448366 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11962] [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: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor receptor (HGFR or Met) upregulation has been proven to play important roles in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Interestingly, chemoresistance against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors including erlotinib and gefitinib was also related to Met. Targeting bromodomain and extra terminal domain (BET) proteins, especially BRD4, has shown inhibitory effects on lung cancer, but the mechanism is unclear. Herein, we found that JQ1 (BET inhibitor) suppressed NSCLC cell growth, reduced the Met expression, and contributed to inactivation of PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways. Moreover, another BET protein inhibitor I-BET151, or BRD4 depletion, also inhibited NSCLC cell growth and downregulated Met. JQ1 inhibited HGF-induced cell growth and Met/PI3K/Akt activation, also inhibited A549 tumor growth in xenograft mouse models, in parallel with Met downregulation. Moreover, JQ1 inhibited the growth of paired erlotinib-sensitive and resistant HCC827 cells in parallel with Met downregulation and PI3K/Akt signaling inactivation. JQ1 also exerted inhibitory influences on the growth of erlotinib-sensitive and resistant HCC827 tumors in xenograft mouse models. These results suggested that targeting BET proteins inhibited NSCLC via downregulating Met and inactivating PI3K/AKT pathway. Our findings reveal a novel mechanism of BET proteins implicated in NSCLC progression with Met taken into consideration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yuan
- Department of Oncology Medical Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Neurology, Affiliated Nanjing Jiangbei Hospital of Nantong University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ping Ni
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zuhao Zhang
- Department of Oncology Medical Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dandan Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Geng Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haijun Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Baoan Chen
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuerong Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhixiang Cheng
- Department of Oncology Medical Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kojima Y, Sudo K, Yoshida H, Yazaki S, Tokura M, Mizoguchi C, Okuma HS, Kita S, Yamamoto K, Nishikawa T, Noguchi E, Shimoi T, Tanase Y, Uno M, Ishikawa M, Kato T, Koyama K, Kobayashi M, Kakegawa T, Fujiwara Y, Yonemori K. Changes in HER3 expression profiles between primary and recurrent gynecological cancers. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:18. [PMID: 36737733 PMCID: PMC9898949 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02844-z] [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: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human epidermal growth factor receptor-3 (HER3) is a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor family of receptor tyrosine kinases, and its overexpression is associated with inferior prognosis in several cancers. However, it is unclear whether HER3 expression status changes in tumor tissue at recurrence. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the changes in HER3 expression between primary and recurrent status in gynecological cancers. METHODS This retrospective study used matched-pair tissues of gynecological cancer patients at initial diagnosis and at recurrence. Immunohistochemical (IHC) scores of 3 + or 2 + were termed "HER3-high", while IHC scores of 1 + or 0 were designated as "HER3-low/zero". RESULTS A total of 86 patients (40 with ovarian cancers, 32 with endometrial cancers, and 14 with cervical cancers) were included in this study. In ovarian cancer, 67.5% and 80.0% of the patients received a HER3-high at initial and recurrent diagnosis, respectively. The H-score was significantly increased at recurrence (p = 0.004). The proportion of HER3-high endometrial cancer patients increased from 46.9% at initial diagnosis to 68.8% at recurrence, and the H-score tended to increase at recurrence (p = 0.08). The fraction of HER3-high-rated cervical cancer patients remained unchanged at 85.7% both at initial and recurrent diagnosis. The discordance rate of HER3 expression detection in initial and recurrent diagnosis samples was 27.5%, 53.1%, and 14.3% for ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers, respectively. Ovarian and endometrial cancers with a HER3-high recurrent score tended to show shorter median survival time than those with a HER3-low/zero recurrent rating. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that, in main types of gynecological cancers, the proportion of patients having a HER3-high score increased from initial to recurrent diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Kojima
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Kazuki Sudo
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yoshida
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Shu Yazaki
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Momoko Tokura
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Chiharu Mizoguchi
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Hitomi S. Okuma
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Shosuke Kita
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Kasumi Yamamoto
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Tadaaki Nishikawa
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Emi Noguchi
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Tatsunori Shimoi
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Yasuhito Tanase
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Masaya Uno
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Mitsuya Ishikawa
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Kato
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Kumiko Koyama
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Translational Science Department I, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd., 1-2-58, Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-8710 Japan
| | - Maki Kobayashi
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Translational Research Department, Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd., 1-16-13, Kitakasai, Edogawa-Ku, Tokyo, 134-8630 Japan
| | - Tomoya Kakegawa
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Translational Research Department, Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd., 1-16-13, Kitakasai, Edogawa-Ku, Tokyo, 134-8630 Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Fujiwara
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| | - Kan Yonemori
- grid.272242.30000 0001 2168 5385Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045 Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Uliano J, Corvaja C, Curigliano G, Tarantino P. Targeting HER3 for cancer treatment: a new horizon for an old target. ESMO Open 2023; 8:100790. [PMID: 36764093 PMCID: PMC9929675 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2023.100790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 3 (HER3) is a member of the human epidermal growth factor receptors family, having as its main ligands neuregulins 1 and 2. Although its poor tyrosine kinase activity entails a weak oncogenic power on its own, HER3 can heterodimerize with HER2 and/or epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), leading to a drastic enhancement of transphosphorylation and activation of downstream signaling pathways, ultimately promoting oncogenesis, metastatic dissemination, and drug resistance. Given its ubiquitous expression across solid tumors, multiple efforts have been done to therapeutically target HER3 by blocking either the ligand binding domain or its dimerization with other receptors. Treatment with anti-HER3 monoclonal antibodies or bispecific antibodies, both as single agents and in combination with other compounds, unfortunately led to unsatisfactory results across several tumor types. The HER3-directed delivery of cytotoxic payloads through antibody-drug conjugates has recently demonstrated encouraging activity in several tumor types, however, suggesting a potential role for the therapeutic targeting of HER3 in cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Uliano
- Division of New Drugs and Early Drug Development, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan. https://twitter.com/jacopo_uli
| | - C Corvaja
- Division of New Drugs and Early Drug Development, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan; Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy. https://twitter.com/carlacorvaja
| | - G Curigliano
- Division of New Drugs and Early Drug Development, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan. https://twitter.com/curijoey
| | - P Tarantino
- Division of New Drugs and Early Drug Development, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan; Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, Boston; Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Novel Insights of Anti-EGFR Therapy in HNSCC: Combined with Immunotherapy or Not? Curr Oncol Rep 2023; 25:93-105. [PMID: 36585960 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-022-01349-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The efficacy of anti-EGFR therapy is still unfavorable in recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients. Disorder of antitumor immunity and aberrantly expressed checkpoint biomarkers had been validated to involve anti-EGFR therapy tolerance and efficacy. Here we review the immunomodulation of anti-EGFR therapy in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of HNSCC and assist clinicians in finding the potential strategies to rescue anti-EGFR tolerance therapy in the era of immunotherapy for HNSCC. RECENT FINDINGS Anti-EGFR therapy, especially cetuximab, was validated to induce the innate and adaptive immune responses of HNSCC patients. It is mainly through inducing natural killer (NK) cells mediating antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), recruiting multiple tumor-infiltrating immune cells, and finally remodeling the TIME. Moreover, mountains of preclinical models and clinical trials revealed that combining anti-EGFR agents with immunotherapy could enhance the antitumor effectiveness in HNSCC. Anti-EGFR therapy may usher in another dawn in the treatment of patients with HNSCC through combination with immunotherapy. We offer an overview of the ongoing efforts to make out the immunomodulation of the EGFR pathway in both innate and adaptive immune responses; update the constant preclinical models and clinical trials for the combination of anti-EGFR and immunotherapy in HNSCC; and finally evaluate the efficacy and advantages of the combination therapeutic strategies in clinical use.
Collapse
|
13
|
Gandullo-Sánchez L, Ocaña A, Pandiella A. HER3 in cancer: from the bench to the bedside. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2022; 41:310. [PMID: 36271429 PMCID: PMC9585794 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02515-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The HER3 protein, that belongs to the ErbB/HER receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family, is expressed in several types of tumors. That fact, together with the role of HER3 in promoting cell proliferation, implicate that targeting HER3 may have therapeutic relevance. Furthermore, expression and activation of HER3 has been linked to resistance to drugs that target other HER receptors such as agents that act on EGFR or HER2. In addition, HER3 has been associated to resistance to some chemotherapeutic drugs. Because of those circumstances, efforts to develop and test agents targeting HER3 have been carried out. Two types of agents targeting HER3 have been developed. The most abundant are antibodies or engineered antibody derivatives that specifically recognize the extracellular region of HER3. In addition, the use of aptamers specifically interacting with HER3, vaccines or HER3-targeting siRNAs have also been developed. Here we discuss the state of the art of the preclinical and clinical development of drugs aimed at targeting HER3 with therapeutic purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Gandullo-Sánchez
- grid.428472.f0000 0004 1794 2467Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC, IBSAL and CIBERONC, Campus Miguel de Unamuno, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Alberto Ocaña
- grid.411068.a0000 0001 0671 5785Hospital Clínico San Carlos and CIBERONC, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Atanasio Pandiella
- grid.428472.f0000 0004 1794 2467Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC, IBSAL and CIBERONC, Campus Miguel de Unamuno, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Riegel K, Vijayarangakannan P, Kechagioglou P, Bogucka K, Rajalingam K. Recent advances in targeting protein kinases and pseudokinases in cancer biology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:942500. [PMID: 35938171 PMCID: PMC9354965 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.942500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Kinases still remain the most favorable members of the druggable genome, and there are an increasing number of kinase inhibitors approved by the FDA to treat a variety of cancers. Here, we summarize recent developments in targeting kinases and pseudokinases with some examples. Targeting the cell cycle machinery garnered significant clinical success, however, a large section of the kinome remains understudied. We also review recent developments in the understanding of pseudokinases and discuss approaches on how to effectively target in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Riegel
- Cell Biology Unit, University Medical Center Mainz, JGU-Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Petros Kechagioglou
- Cell Biology Unit, University Medical Center Mainz, JGU-Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Katarzyna Bogucka
- Cell Biology Unit, University Medical Center Mainz, JGU-Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Krishnaraj Rajalingam
- Cell Biology Unit, University Medical Center Mainz, JGU-Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- *Correspondence: Krishnaraj Rajalingam,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Farrokhian N, Maltas J, Dinh M, Durmaz A, Ellsworth P, Hitomi M, McClure E, Marusyk A, Kaznatcheev A, Scott JG. Measuring competitive exclusion in non-small cell lung cancer. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm7212. [PMID: 35776787 PMCID: PMC10883359 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm7212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we experimentally measure the frequency-dependent interactions between a gefitinib-resistant non-small cell lung cancer population and its sensitive ancestor via the evolutionary game assay. We show that cost of resistance is insufficient to accurately predict competitive exclusion and that frequency-dependent growth rate measurements are required. Using frequency-dependent growth rate data, we then show that gefitinib treatment results in competitive exclusion of the ancestor, while the absence of treatment results in a likely, but not guaranteed, exclusion of the resistant strain. Then, using simulations, we demonstrate that incorporating ecological growth effects can influence the predicted extinction time. In addition, we show that higher drug concentrations may not lead to the optimal reduction in tumor burden. Together, these results highlight the potential importance of frequency-dependent growth rate data for understanding competing populations, both in the laboratory and as we translate adaptive therapy regimens to the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeff Maltas
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mina Dinh
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Masahiro Hitomi
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Erin McClure
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andriy Marusyk
- Department of Cancer Physiology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Artem Kaznatcheev
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jacob G Scott
- CWRU School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yu J, Fang T, Yun C, Liu X, Cai X. Antibody-Drug Conjugates Targeting the Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Family in Cancers. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:847835. [PMID: 35295841 PMCID: PMC8919033 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.847835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family, which includes HER1 (also known as EGFR), HER2, HER3 and HER4, have played a central role in regulating cell proliferation, survival, differentiation and migration. The overexpression of the HER family has been recognized as one of the most common cellular dysregulation associated with a wide variety of tumor types. Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) represent a new and promising class of anticancer therapeutics that combine the cancer specificity of antibodies with cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs. Two HER2-directed ADCs, trastuzumane-emtansine (T-DM1) and trastuzumab-deruxtecan (DS-8201a), have been approved for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2013 and 2019, respectively. A third HER2-directed ADC, disitamab vedotin (RC48), has been approved for locally advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer by the NMPA (National Medical Products Administration) of China in 2021. A total of 11 ADCs that target HER family receptors (EGFR, HER2 or HER3) are currently under clinical trials. In this review article, we summarize the three approved ADCs (T-DM1, DS-8201a and RC48), together with the investigational EGFR-directed ADCs (ABT-414, MRG003 and M1231), HER2-directed ADCs (SYD985, ARX-788, A166, MRG002, ALT-P7, GQ1001 and SBT6050) and HER3-directed ADC (U3-1402). Lastly, we discuss the major challenges associated with the development of ADCs, and highlight the possible future directions to tackle these challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xiaoqing Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Natural Receptor- and Ligand-Based Chimeric Antigen Receptors: Strategies Using Natural Ligands and Receptors for Targeted Cell Killing. Cells 2021; 11:cells11010021. [PMID: 35011583 PMCID: PMC8750724 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has been widely successful in the treatment of B-cell malignancies, including B-cell lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, and multiple myeloma; and three generations of CAR designs have led to effective FDA approved therapeutics. Traditionally, CAR antigen specificity is derived from a monoclonal antibody where the variable heavy (VH) and variable light (VL) chains are connected by a peptide linker to form a single-chain variable fragment (scFv). While this provides a level of antigen specificity parallel to that of an antibody and has shown great success in the clinic, this design is not universally successful. For instance, issues of stability, immunogenicity, and antigen escape hinder the translational application of some CARs. As an alternative, natural receptor- or ligand-based designs may prove advantageous in some circumstances compared to scFv-based designs. Herein, the advantages and disadvantages of scFv-based and natural receptor- or ligand-based CAR designs are discussed. In addition, several translational aspects of natural receptor- and ligand-based CAR approaches that are being investigated in preclinical and clinical studies will be examined.
Collapse
|
18
|
Koyama S, Fujiwara K, Morisaki T, Fujii T, Nakamura Y, Fukuhara T, Takeuchi H. Cetuximab and paclitaxel combination therapy for recurrent basaloid squamous cell carcinoma in the ethmoid sinus. Auris Nasus Larynx 2021; 48:1189-1192. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anl.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
19
|
Current Aspects and Future Considerations of EGFR Inhibition in Locally Advanced and Recurrent Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143545. [PMID: 34298761 PMCID: PMC8306284 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) is a debilitating disease that affects hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide and has a high mortality rate. Mainstay treatment largely consists of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy which has been met with significant morbidity. The epidermal growth factor receptor is one that which plays a major role in cell signaling and has been extensively studied in locally advanced (LA) and recurrent metastatic (RM) SCCHN. This review paper details the major roles of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), previous and current EGFR inhibition therapeutics, resistance mechanisms, and the possible integration of immunotherapy and EGFR inhibition in this disease process. Abstract Recurrent metastatic (RM) and locally advanced (LA) squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) are devasting disease states with limited therapeutic options and poor overall survival. Targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is one area that has helped improve outcomes in this disease. Anti-EGFR based therapies have been shown to improve overall survival and mitigate the significant toxicities incurred from standard radiation, chemotherapy, and/or surgical options. Cetuximab, the most well-studied anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody, has demonstrated a positive impact on outcomes for RM and LA SCCHN. However, the development of early resistance to cetuximab highlights the need for a wider arsenal of therapy for RM and LA diseases. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors has recently transformed the treatment of recurrent SCCHN. Drugs such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab have demonstrated success in recent clinical trials and have been approved for the treatment of advanced disease. Given the positive results of both EGFR targeted agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors, ongoing trials are studying their synergistic effects.
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is an important therapeutic target in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). EGFR-targeted agents including monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors have shown mixed results in clinical trials. To date, only cetuximab, an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody, is approved for use in local/regional advanced and recurrent or metastatic HNSCC. This article reviews the mechanism of action of cetuximab and its antitumor immune effects and the data to support its use in HNSCC. It additionally provides an overview of other EGFR monoclonal antibodies and small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors that have been studied.
Collapse
|
21
|
Łuczkowska K, Sokolowska KE, Taryma-Lesniak O, Pastuszak K, Supernat A, Bybjerg-Grauholm J, Hansen LL, Paczkowska E, Wojdacz TK, Machaliński B. Bortezomib induces methylation changes in neuroblastoma cells that appear to play a significant role in resistance development to this compound. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9846. [PMID: 33972578 PMCID: PMC8110815 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89128-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The anticancer activity of bortezomib (BTZ) has been increasingly studied in a number of indications and promising results for the use of this treatment have been shown in neuroblastoma. As BTZ treatment is usually administered in cycles, the development of resistance and side effects in patients undergoing therapy with BTZ remains a major challenge for the clinical usage of this compound. Common resistance development also means that certain cells are able to survive BTZ treatment and bypass molecular mechanisms that render BTZ anticancer activity. We studied the methylome of neuroblastoma cells that survived BTZ treatment. Our results indicate that BTZ induces pronounced genome wide methylation changes in cells which recovered from the treatment. Functional analyses of identified methylation changes demonstrated they were involved in key cancer pathology pathways. These changes may allow the cells to bypass the primary anticancer activity of BTZ and develop a treatment resistant and proliferative phenotype. To study whether cells surviving BTZ treatment acquire a proliferative phenotype, we repeatedly treated cells which recovered from the first round of BTZ treatment. The repetitive treatment led to induction of the extraordinary proliferative potential of the cells, that increased with subsequent treatments. As we did not observe similar effects in cells that survived treatment with lenalidomide, and non-treated cells cultured under the same experimental conditions, this phenomenon seems to be BTZ specific. Overall, our results indicate that methylation changes may play major role in the development of BTZ resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Łuczkowska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Ewa Sokolowska
- Independent Clinical Epigenetics Laboratory, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-252, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Olga Taryma-Lesniak
- Independent Clinical Epigenetics Laboratory, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-252, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Pastuszak
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-211, Gdańsk, Poland.,Department of Algorithms and Systems Modelling, Faculty of Electronics, Telecommunications and Informatics, Gdańsk University of Technology, Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Anna Supernat
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-211, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jonas Bybjerg-Grauholm
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, København S Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lise Lotte Hansen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Hoegh-Guldbergsgade 10, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Edyta Paczkowska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Tomasz K Wojdacz
- Independent Clinical Epigenetics Laboratory, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-252, Szczecin, Poland. .,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Hoegh-Guldbergsgade 10, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark. .,Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Hoegh-Guldbergs Gade 6B, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Bogusław Machaliński
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
de Kort WWB, Spelier S, Devriese LA, van Es RJJ, Willems SM. Predictive Value of EGFR-PI3K-AKT-mTOR-Pathway Inhibitor Biomarkers for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review. Mol Diagn Ther 2021; 25:123-136. [PMID: 33686517 PMCID: PMC7956931 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-021-00518-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding molecular pathogenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) has considerably improved in the last decades. As a result, novel therapeutic strategies have evolved, amongst which are epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-targeted therapies. With the exception of cetuximab, targeted therapies for HNSCC have not yet been introduced into clinical practice. One important aspect of new treatment regimes in clinical practice is presence of robust biomarkers predictive for therapy response. METHODS We performed a systematic search in PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane library. Articles were included if they investigated a biomarker for targeted therapy in the EGFR-PI3K-AKT-mTOR-pathway. RESULTS Of 83 included articles, 52 were preclinical and 33 were clinical studies (two studies contained both a preclinical and a clinical part). We classified EGFR pathway inhibitor types and investigated the type of biomarker (biomarker on epigenetic, DNA, mRNA or protein level). CONCLUSION Several EGFR-PI3K-AKT-mTOR-pathway inhibitor biomarkers have been researched for HNSCC but few of the investigated biomarkers have been adequately confirmed in clinical trials. A more systematic approach is needed to discover proper biomarkers as stratifying patients is essential to prevent unnecessary costs and side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W. W. B. de Kort
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 885500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - S. Spelier
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 885500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - L. A. Devriese
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 885500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - R. J. J. van Es
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 885500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Utrecht Cancer Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 885500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - S. M. Willems
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 885500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Groningen, PO Box 30001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Haikala HM, Jänne PA. Thirty Years of HER3: From Basic Biology to Therapeutic Interventions. Clin Cancer Res 2021; 27:3528-3539. [PMID: 33608318 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-4465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
HER3 is a pseudokinase member of the EGFR family having a role in both tumor progression and drug resistance. Although HER3 was discovered more than 30 years ago, no therapeutic interventions have reached clinical approval to date. Because the evidence of the importance of HER3 is accumulating, increased amounts of preclinical and clinical trials with HER3-targeting agents are emerging. In this review article, we discuss the most recent HER3 biology in tumorigenic events and drug resistance and provide an overview of the current and emerging strategies to target HER3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heidi M Haikala
- Lowe Center for Thoracic Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Pasi A Jänne
- Lowe Center for Thoracic Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Park R, Al-Jumayli M, Miller K, Saeed A, Saeed A. Exceptional response to Erlotinib monotherapy in EGFR Exon 19-deleted, KRAS wild-type, Chemo-refractory advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2021; 27:100342. [PMID: 33611092 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2021.100342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive tumor with an abysmal prognosis. Beyond the first-line setting, treatment for advanced PDAC is limited and suboptimal. Also, the efficacy of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) targeted therapy alone in the chemo-refractory setting in PDAC tumors harboring druggable EGFR mutations is unclear. Here we describe the case of a patient with chemo-refractory advanced PDAC with an activating exon-19 EGFR mutation who had an exceptional response to erlotinib monotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin Park
- MetroWest Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Mohammed Al-Jumayli
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Kansas University Cancer Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States
| | - Kirk Miller
- Department of Radiology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States
| | - Azhar Saeed
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States
| | - Anwaar Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Kansas University Cancer Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Jahan S, Karim ME, Chowdhury EH. Nanoparticles Targeting Receptors on Breast Cancer for Efficient Delivery of Chemotherapeutics. Biomedicines 2021; 9:114. [PMID: 33530291 PMCID: PMC7910939 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9020114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The journey of chemotherapeutic drugs from the site of administration to the site of action is confronted by several factors including low bioavailability, uneven distribution in major organs, limited accessibility of drug molecules to the distant tumor tissues, and lower therapeutic indexes. These unavoidable features of classical chemotherapeutics necessitate an additional high, repetitive dose of drugs to obtain maximum therapeutic responses with the result of unintended adverse side effects. An erratic tumor microenvironment, notable drawbacks of conventional chemotherapy, and multidrug-resistant mechanisms of breast cancer cells warrant precisely designed therapeutics for the treatment of cancers. In recent decades, nanoparticles have been deployed for the delivery of standard anticancer drugs to maximize the therapeutic potency while minimizing the adverse effects to increase the quality and span of life. Several organic and inorganic nanoplatforms that have been designed exploiting the distinctive features of the tumor microenvironment and tumor cells offer favorable physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetic profiles of a parent drug, with delivery of higher amounts of the drug to the pathological site and its controlled release, thereby improving the balance between its efficacy and toxicity. Advances to this front have included design and construction of targeted nanoparticles by conjugating homing devices like peptide, ligand, and Fab on the surface of nanomaterials to navigate nanoparticledrug complexes towards the target tumor cell with minimal destruction of healthy cells. Furthermore, actively targeting nanoparticles can facilitate the delivery and cellular uptake of nanoparticle-loaded drug constructs via binding with specific receptors expressed aberrantly on the surface of a tumor cell. Herein, we present an overview of the principle of targeted delivery approaches, exploiting drug-nanoparticle conjugates with multiple targeting moieties to target specific receptors of breast cancer cells and highlighting therapeutic evaluation in preclinical studies. We conclude that an understanding of the translational gap and challenges would show the possible future directions to foster the development of novel targeted nanotherapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ezharul Hoque Chowdhury
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (S.J.); (M.E.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
SATB1-Mediated Upregulation of the Oncogenic Receptor Tyrosine Kinase HER3 Antagonizes MET Inhibition in Gastric Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010082. [PMID: 33374770 PMCID: PMC7796274 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
MET-amplified gastric cancer cells are extremely sensitive to MET inhibition in vitro, whereas clinical efficacy of MET inhibitors is disappointing. The compensatory activation of other oncogenic growth factor receptors may serve as an underlying mechanism of resistance. In this study, we analyzed the role of HER receptors, in particular HER3 and its ligand heregulin, in this respect. This also included the chromatin-organizer protein SATB1, as an established regulator of HER expression in other tumor entities. In a panel of MET-amplified gastric carcinoma cell lines, cell growth under anchorage-dependent and independent conditions was studied upon inhibitor treatment or siRNA-mediated knockdown. Expression analyses were performed using RT-qPCR, FACS, and immunoblots. Signal transduction was monitored via antibody arrays and immunoblots. As expected, MET inhibition led to a growth arrest and inhibition of MAPK signaling. Strikingly, however, this was accompanied by a rapid and profound upregulation of the oncogenic receptor HER3. This finding was determined as functionally relevant, since HER3 activation by HRG led to partial MET inhibitor resistance, and MAPK/Akt signaling was even found enhanced upon HRG+MET inhibitor treatment compared to HRG alone. SATB1 was identified as mediator of HER3 upregulation. Concomitantly, SATB1 knockdown prevented upregulation of HER3, thus abrogating the HRG-promoted rescue from MET inhibition. Taken together, our results introduce the combined HER3/MET inhibition as strategy to overcome resistance towards MET inhibitors.
Collapse
|
27
|
Al Qaraghuli MM. Biotherapeutic Antibodies for the Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer: Current Approaches and Future Considerations of Photothermal Therapies. Front Oncol 2020; 10:559596. [PMID: 33324546 PMCID: PMC7726427 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.559596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a heterogeneous disease that includes a variety of tumors originating in the hypopharynx, oropharynx, lip, oral cavity, nasopharynx, or larynx. HNC is the sixth most common malignancy worldwide and affects thousands of people in terms of incidence and mortality. Various factors can trigger the development of the disease such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and repetitive viral infections. HNC is currently treated by single or multimodality approaches, which are based on surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and biotherapeutic antibodies. The latter approach will be the focus of this article. There are currently three approved antibodies against HNCs (cetuximab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab), and 48 antibodies under development. The majority of these antibodies are of humanized (23 antibodies) or human (19 antibodies) origins, and subclass IgG1 represents a total of 32 antibodies. In addition, three antibody drug conjugates (ADCs: telisotuzumab-vedotin, indatuximab-ravtansine, and W0101) and two bispecific antibodies (GBR 1372 and ABL001) have been under development. Despite the remarkable success of antibodies in treating different tumors, success was limited in HNCs. This limitation is attributed to efficacy, resistance, and the appearance of various side effects. However, the efficacy of these antibodies could be enhanced through conjugation to gold nanoparticles (GNPs). These conjugates combine the high specificity of antibodies with unique spectral properties of GNPs to generate a treatment approach known as photothermal therapy. This approach can provide promising outcomes due to the ability of GNPs to convert light into heat, which can specifically destroy cancer cells and treat HNC in an effective manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed M. Al Qaraghuli
- SiMologics Ltd., Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Colomba A, Fitzek M, George R, Weitsman G, Roberts S, Zanetti-Domingues L, Hirsch M, Rolfe DJ, Mehmood S, Madin A, Claus J, Kjaer S, Snijders AP, Ng T, Martin-Fernandez M, Smith DM, Parker PJ. A small molecule inhibitor of HER3: a proof-of-concept study. Biochem J 2020; 477:3329-3347. [PMID: 32815546 PMCID: PMC7489893 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20200496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite being catalytically defective, pseudokinases are typically essential players of cellular signalling, acting as allosteric regulators of their active counterparts. Deregulation of a growing number of pseudokinases has been linked to human diseases, making pseudokinases therapeutic targets of interest. Pseudokinases can be dynamic, adopting specific conformations critical for their allosteric function. Interfering with their allosteric role, with small molecules that would lock pseudokinases in a conformation preventing their productive partner interactions, is an attractive therapeutic strategy to explore. As a well-known allosteric activator of epidermal growth factor receptor family members, and playing a major part in cancer progression, the pseudokinase HER3 is a relevant context in which to address the potential of pseudokinases as drug targets for the development of allosteric inhibitors. In this proof-of-concept study, we developed a multiplex, medium-throughput thermal shift assay screening strategy to assess over 100 000 compounds and identify selective small molecule inhibitors that would trap HER3 in a conformation which is unfavourable for the formation of an active HER2-HER3 heterodimer. As a proof-of-concept compound, AC3573 bound with some specificity to HER3 and abrogated HER2-HER3 complex formation and downstream signalling in cells. Our study highlights the opportunity to identify new molecular mechanisms of action interfering with the biological function of pseudokinases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Colomba
- Protein Phosphorylation Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, U.K
| | - Martina Fitzek
- Hit Discovery, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, U.K
| | - Roger George
- Structural Biology Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, U.K
| | - Gregory Weitsman
- Richard Dimbleby Department of Cancer Research, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, U.K
| | - Selene Roberts
- Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot, U.K
| | - Laura Zanetti-Domingues
- Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot, U.K
| | - Michael Hirsch
- Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot, U.K
| | - Daniel J. Rolfe
- Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot, U.K
| | - Shahid Mehmood
- Protein Analysis and Proteomics Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, U.K
| | - Andrew Madin
- Hit Discovery, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, U.K
| | - Jeroen Claus
- Protein Phosphorylation Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, U.K
| | - Svend Kjaer
- Structural Biology Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, U.K
| | - Ambrosius P. Snijders
- Protein Analysis and Proteomics Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, U.K
| | - Tony Ng
- Richard Dimbleby Department of Cancer Research, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, U.K
| | - Marisa Martin-Fernandez
- Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot, U.K
| | - David M. Smith
- Emerging Innovations Unit, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, U.K
| | - Peter J. Parker
- Protein Phosphorylation Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, U.K
- CRUK KHP Centre, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Larcombe-Young D, Papa S, Maher J. PanErbB-targeted CAR T-cell immunotherapy of head and neck cancer. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2020; 20:965-970. [PMID: 32567382 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2020.1786531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Larcombe-Young
- King's College London , School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, CAR Mechanics Lab, Guy's Cancer Centre, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - Sophie Papa
- King's College London , School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, ImmunoEngineering Group, Guy's Cancer Centre, Great Maze Pond, London, UK.,Depart of Medical Oncology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, Great Maze Pond , London, UK
| | - John Maher
- King's College London , School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, CAR Mechanics Lab, Guy's Cancer Centre, Great Maze Pond, London, UK.,Leucid Bio Ltd., Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond , London, UK.,Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust , London UK.,Department of Immunology, Eastbourne Hospital , Eastbourne, UK
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Yoshida GJ. Regulation of heterogeneous cancer-associated fibroblasts: the molecular pathology of activated signaling pathways. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2020; 39:112. [PMID: 32546182 PMCID: PMC7296768 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01611-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicates that intratumoral heterogeneity contributes to the development of resistance to anticancer therapeutics. Fibroblasts, which are components of the paraneoplastic stroma, play a crucial role in the wound-healing process. Activated fibroblasts accumulate in the wound and are involved in many aspects of the tissue remodeling cascade that initiates the repair process and prevents further tissue damage. The pathophysiological roles of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment have attracted increasing interest. CAFs play crucial roles in tumor progression and the response to chemotherapy. Several cytokines and chemokines are involved in the conversion of normal fibroblasts into CAFs, and some of these form a feedback loop between cancer cells and CAFs. In addition, the physical force between tumor cells and CAFs promotes cooperative invasion or co-migration of both types of cells. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), are secreted by both cancer cells and CAFs, and mediate the epigenetic modification of CAFs. This enhances the pro-tumorigenic function of CAFs mediated by promoting actomyosin contractility and extracellular matrix remodeling to form the tracks used for collective cancer cell migration. The concept of intra-tumoral CAF heterogeneity refers to the presence of inflammatory CAFs with low levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and high levels of IL-6 expression, which are in striking contrast to transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-dependent myofibroblastic CAFs with high α-SMA expression levels. CAF populations that suppress tumor growth and progression through stroma-specific Hedgehog (Hh) activation have been detected in different murine tumor models including those of the bladder, colon, and pancreas. A new therapeutic strategy targeting CAFs is the "stromal switch," in which tumor-promoting CAFs are changed into tumor-retarding CAFs with attenuated stromal stiffness. Several molecular mechanisms that can be exploited to design personalized anticancer therapies targeting CAFs remain to be elucidated. Strategies aimed at targeting the tumor stroma as well as tumor cells themselves have attracted academic attention for their application in precision medicine. This novel review discusses the role of the activation of EGFR, Wnt/β-catenin, Hippo, TGF-β, and JAK/STAT cascades in CAFs in relation to the chemoresistance and invasive/metastatic behavior of cancer cells. For instance, although activated EGFR signaling contributes to collective cell migration in cooperation with CAFs, an activated Hippo pathway is responsible for stromal stiffness resulting in the collapse of neoplastic blood vessels. Therefore, identifying the signaling pathways that are activated under specific conditions is crucial for precision medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Go J Yoshida
- Department of Immunological Diagnosis, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kumar R, George B, Campbell MR, Verma N, Paul AM, Melo-Alvim C, Ribeiro L, Pillai MR, da Costa LM, Moasser MM. HER family in cancer progression: From discovery to 2020 and beyond. Adv Cancer Res 2020; 147:109-160. [PMID: 32593399 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are among the first layer of molecules that receive, interpret, and transduce signals leading to distinct cancer cell phenotypes. Since the discovery of the tooth-lid factor-later characterized as the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-and its high-affinity binding EGF receptor, HER kinases have emerged as one of the commonly upregulated or hyperactivated or mutated kinases in epithelial tumors, thus allowing HER1-3 family members to regulate several hallmarks of cancer development and progression. Each member of the HER family exhibits shared and unique structural features to engage multiple receptor activation modes, leading to a range of overlapping and distinct phenotypes. EGFR, the founding HER family member, provided the roadmap for the development of the cell surface RTK-directed targeted cancer therapy by serving as a prototype/precursor for the currently used HER-directed cancer drugs. We herein provide a brief account of the discoveries, defining moments, and historical context of the HER family and guidepost advances in basic, translational, and clinical research that solidified a prominent position of the HER family in cancer research and treatment. We also discuss the significance of HER3 pseudokinase in cancer biology; its unique structural features that drive transregulation among HER1-3, leading to a superior proximal signaling response; and potential role of HER3 as a shared effector of acquired therapeutic resistance against diverse oncology drugs. Finally, we also narrate some of the current drawbacks of HER-directed therapies and provide insights into postulated advances in HER biology with extensive implications of these therapies in cancer research and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Kumar
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India; Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States; Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.
| | - Bijesh George
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Marcia R Campbell
- Department of Medicine, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Nandini Verma
- Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Mumbai, India
| | - Aswathy Mary Paul
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Cecília Melo-Alvim
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Leonor Ribeiro
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M Radhakrishna Pillai
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Luis Marques da Costa
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mark M Moasser
- Department of Medicine, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhou Tran Y, Minozada R, Cao X, Johansson HJ, Branca RM, Seashore-Ludlow B, Orre LM. Immediate Adaptation Analysis Implicates BCL6 as an EGFR-TKI Combination Therapy Target in NSCLC. Mol Cell Proteomics 2020; 19:928-943. [PMID: 32234966 PMCID: PMC7261823 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra120.002036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is a major obstacle to curative cancer therapies, and increased understanding of the molecular events contributing to resistance would enable better prediction of therapy response, as well as contribute to new targets for combination therapy. Here we have analyzed the early molecular response to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibition using RNA sequencing data covering 13,486 genes and mass spectrometry data covering 10,138 proteins. This analysis revealed a massive response to EGFR inhibition already within the first 24 h, including significant regulation of hundreds of genes known to control downstream signaling, such as transcription factors, kinases, phosphatases and ubiquitin E3-ligases. Importantly, this response included upregulation of key genes in multiple oncogenic signaling pathways that promote proliferation and survival, such as ERBB3, FGFR2, JAK3, and BCL6, indicating an early adaptive response to EGFR inhibition. Using a library of more than 500 approved and experimental compounds in a combination therapy screen, we could show that several kinase inhibitors with targets including JAK3 and FGFR2 increased the response to EGFR inhibitors. Further, we investigated the functional impact of BCL6 upregulation in response to EGFR inhibition using siRNA-based silencing of BCL6. Proteomics profiling revealed that BCL6 inhibited transcription of multiple target genes including p53, resulting in reduced apoptosis which implicates BCL6 upregulation as a new EGFR inhibitor treatment escape mechanism. Finally, we demonstrate that combined treatment targeting both EGFR and BCL6 act synergistically in killing lung cancer cells. In conclusion, or data indicates that multiple different adaptive mechanisms may act in concert to blunt the cellular impact of EGFR inhibition, and we suggest BCL6 as a potential target for EGFR inhibitor-based combination therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou Tran
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rezan Minozada
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xiaofang Cao
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik J Johansson
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rui M Branca
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brinton Seashore-Ludlow
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lukas M Orre
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Li H, Zhang M, Wei Y, Haider F, Lin Y, Guan W, Liu Y, Zhang S, Yuan R, Yang X, Yang S, Wang H. SH3BGRL confers innate drug resistance in breast cancer by stabilizing HER2 activation on cell membrane. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2020; 39:81. [PMID: 32381043 PMCID: PMC7204297 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01577-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Background HER2-positive breast cancer is usually associated to the more aggressive progression and the worse prognosis, but the mechanism underlying the innate resistance to HER2-targeted therapy remains elusive. The scaffold protein SH3-domain-binding glutamic acid-rich protein-like protein (SH3BGRL) is indicated as a tumor suppressor in some cancers, but it is highly expressed in breast cancers. Here we characterized the tumorigenic function of SH3BGRL in HER2-expressing breast cancer cells and the subsequent effect in HER2-targeted therapies. Methods The interaction of SH3BGRL to HER2 were characterized with various truncated SH3BGRL mutants by immunoprecipitation and molecule docking simulation. The physiological roles of SH3BGRL interacting with HER2 in tumor progression and therapy implication were characterized by gain and loss of function approaches in vitro and in vivo. Immunohistochemistry was used for detections of SH3BGRL and p-HER2 (Y1196) expressions in xenografted tumors and human breast cancer tissues. Clinical relevance of SH3BGRL expression with HER2 was validated with both breast patient sample and the public data analyses. Results Our results demonstrated that SH3BGRL directly binds with HER2 on cell membrane via its motifs α1, α2 helixes and β3 sheet, which postpones HER2 internalization upon EGF stimulation. Consequently, the association between SH3BGRL and HER2 contributed to the prolonged HER2 phosphorylation at specific tyrosine sites, especially at Y1196, and their downstream signaling activation. The relevance between SH3BGRL expression and p-HER2 (Y1196) phosphorylation was validated in both xenografted tumors and the breast cancer patient tissues. Mechanistically, SH3BGRL promoted breast tumor cell proliferation and survival, while reduced the cell sensitivity to anti-tumor drugs, especially to the HER2-targeted drugs. In contrast, Silencing SH3BGRL or inhibiting its downstream signals efficiently induced apoptosis of breast tumor cells with HER2 and SH3BGRL doubly positive expression. Database analysis also highlighted that SH3BGRL is a poor prognostic marker, especially for HER2-positive breast cancers. Conclusions Our results disclose SH3BGRL as a novel posttranslational modulator of HER2 hyperactivation, which can lead to the intrinsic resistance to HER2-targeted therapy. SH3BGRL would be a pivotal therapy target and a diagnostic marker to HER2-positve patients. Thus, targeting SH3BGRL or the downstream signaling could relieve the innate resistance to some HER2-tageted therapies for both HER2 and SH3BGRL-postive breast cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Centre for Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Mingming Zhang
- Centre for Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China.,Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yanli Wei
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Farhan Haider
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yitong Lin
- The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, China
| | - Wen Guan
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yanbin Liu
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China.,Institute of Immunology and Molecular Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong, China
| | - Shaoyang Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Ronghua Yuan
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Xia Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shulan Yang
- Centre for Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Haihe Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 Second Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the genomic characterization of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (HNSCC) and discusses how these abnormalities could be incorporated into a therapeutic approach. RECENT FINDINGS Tobacco and HPV infection, the two main risk factors of HNSCC, allow the definition of two groups with distinct anatomoclinical and genetic features. As tobacco and HPV infection are not exclusive, exposure to both risk factors is associated with an intermediate prognostic. HPV-positive, nontobacco-related HNSCCs are associated with a better prognosis, a rather more simple genomic profile, frequent activating mutations of genes involved in pi3kinase pathway, and the very low incidence of mutations of tumor suppressor genes. HPV-negative, tobacco-related HNSCC are genetically more complex. HPV-negative HNSCC are characterized by almost mandatory inactivating mutations/deletions of tumor suppressor genes (especially TP53 and CDKN2A) and the occurrence, though less frequent, of activating mutations or amplifications of some oncogenes that encode for cell cycle proteins or receptors with tyrosine kinase activity. Despite many efforts to improve therapeutic targeting in RM HNSCC, Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting REGF, remains the sole approved targeted treatment in RM HNSCC. SUMMARY Despite the increasingly precise genomic characterization of HNSCCs, precision medicine is struggling to find its place in the management of HNSCCs. Inclusion of enriched populations in dedicated trials is likely to help implement precision medicine in the management of HNSCCs.
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
Pseudokinases are members of the protein kinase superfamily but signal primarily through noncatalytic mechanisms. Many pseudokinases contribute to the pathologies of human diseases, yet they remain largely unexplored as drug targets owing to challenges associated with modulation of their biological functions. Our understanding of the structure and physiological roles of pseudokinases has improved substantially over the past decade, revealing intriguing similarities between pseudokinases and their catalytically active counterparts. Pseudokinases often adopt conformations that are analogous to those seen in catalytically active kinases and, in some cases, can also bind metal cations and/or nucleotides. Several clinically approved kinase inhibitors have been shown to influence the noncatalytic functions of active kinases, providing hope that similar properties in pseudokinases could be pharmacologically regulated. In this Review, we discuss known roles of pseudokinases in disease, their unique structural features and the progress that has been made towards developing pseudokinase-directed therapeutics.
Collapse
|
36
|
Tong X, Tanino R, Sun R, Tsubata Y, Okimoto T, Takechi M, Isobe T. Protein tyrosine kinase 2: a novel therapeutic target to overcome acquired EGFR-TKI resistance in non-small cell lung cancer. Respir Res 2019; 20:270. [PMID: 31791326 PMCID: PMC6889213 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-019-1244-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Protein tyrosine kinase 2 (PTK2) expression has been reported in various types of human epithelial cancers including lung cancer; however, the role of PTK2 in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has not been elucidated. We previously reported that pemetrexed-resistant NSCLC cell line PC-9/PEM also acquired EGFR-TKI resistance with constitutive Akt activation, but we could not find a therapeutic target. Methods Cell viability in EGFR-mutant NSCLC cell lines was measured by the WST-8 assay. Phosphorylation antibody array assay for receptor tyrosine kinases was performed in PC-9 and PC-9/PEM cell lines. We evaluated the efficacy of EGFR and PTK2 co-inhibition in EGFR-TKI-resistant NSCLC in vitro. Oral defactinib and osimertinib were administered in mice bearing subcutaneous xenografts to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment combination in vivo. Both the PTK2 phosphorylation and the treatment combination efficacy were evaluated in erlotinib-resistant EGFR-mutant NSCLC cell lines. Results PTK2 was hyperphosphorylated in PC-9/PEM. Defactinib (PTK2 inhibitor) and PD173074 (FGFR inhibitor) inhibited PTK2 phosphorylation. Combination of PTK2 inhibitor and EGFR-TKI inhibited Akt and induced apoptosis in PC-9/PEM. The combination treatment showed improved in vivo therapeutic efficacy compared to the single-agent treatments. Furthermore, erlotinib-resistant NSCLC cell lines showed PTK2 hyperphosphorylation. PTK2 inhibition in the PTK2 hyperphosphorylated erlotinib-resistant cell lines also recovered EGFR-TKI sensitivity. Conclusion PTK2 hyperphosphorylation occurs in various EGFR-TKI-resistant NSCLCs. Combination of PTK2 inhibitor and EGFR-TKI (defactinib and osimertinib) recovered EGFR-TKI sensitivity in the EGFR-TKI-resistant NSCLC. Our study result suggests that this combination therapy may be a viable option to overcome EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuexia Tong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology & Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan.,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Ryosuke Tanino
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology & Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan
| | - Rong Sun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology & Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan
| | - Yukari Tsubata
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology & Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan.
| | - Tamio Okimoto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology & Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan
| | - Mayumi Takechi
- Department of Experimental Animals, Interdisciplinary Center for Science Research, Organization for Research and Academic Information, Shimane University, Izumo, Shimane, Japan
| | - Takeshi Isobe
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology & Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo, Shimane, 693-8501, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Jameson NM, Ma J, Benitez J, Izurieta A, Han JY, Mendez R, Parisian A, Furnari F. Intron 1-Mediated Regulation of EGFR Expression in EGFR-Dependent Malignancies Is Mediated by AP-1 and BET Proteins. Mol Cancer Res 2019; 17:2208-2220. [PMID: 31444232 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-19-0747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is overexpressed in numerous solid tumors and is the subject of extensive therapeutic efforts. Much of the research on EGFR is focused on protein dynamics and downstream signaling; however, few studies have explored its transcriptional regulation. Here, we identified two enhancers (CE1 and CE2) present within the first intron of the EGFR gene in models of glioblastoma (GBM) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). CE1 and CE2 contain open chromatin and H3K27Ac histone marks, enhance transcription in reporter assays, and interact with the EGFR promoter. Enhancer genetic deletion by CRISPR/Cas9 significantly reduces EGFR transcript levels, with double deletion exercising an additive effect. Targeted repression of CE1 and CE2 by dCas9-KRAB demonstrates repression of transcription similar to that of genomic deletion. We identify AP-1 transcription factor family members in concert with BET bromodomain proteins as modulators of CE1 and CE2 activity in HNSCC and GBM through de novo motif identification and validate their presence. Genetic inhibition of AP-1 or pharmacologic disruption of BET/AP-1 binding results in downregulated EGFR protein and transcript levels, confirming a role for these factors in CE1 and CE2. Our results identify and characterize these novel enhancers, shedding light on the role that epigenetic mechanisms play in regulating EGFR transcription in EGFR-dependent cancers. IMPLICATIONS: We identify critical constituent enhancers present in the first intron of the EGFR gene, and provide a rationale for therapeutic targeting of EGFR intron 1 enhancers through perturbation of AP-1 and BET in EGFR-positive malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan M Jameson
- Ludwig Cancer Research, San Diego Branch, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jianhui Ma
- Ludwig Cancer Research, San Diego Branch, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California.,Zeno Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, California
| | - Jorge Benitez
- Ludwig Cancer Research, San Diego Branch, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California.,Celgene Corporation, San Diego, California
| | - Alejandro Izurieta
- Ludwig Cancer Research, San Diego Branch, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jee Yun Han
- Center for Epigenomics, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Robert Mendez
- Center for Epigenomics, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Alison Parisian
- Ludwig Cancer Research, San Diego Branch, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Frank Furnari
- Ludwig Cancer Research, San Diego Branch, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California. .,The Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Koganemaru S, Kuboki Y, Koga Y, Kojima T, Yamauchi M, Maeda N, Kagari T, Hirotani K, Yasunaga M, Matsumura Y, Doi T. U3-1402, a Novel HER3-Targeting Antibody-Drug Conjugate, for the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2019; 18:2043-2050. [PMID: 31395690 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-19-0452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
HER3 is overexpressed in several cancers, including colorectal cancer. Although therapies with anti-HER3 antibodies have been investigated, significant clinical benefits have not been reported. U3-1402 is a novel HER3-antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) composed of the HER3 antibody patritumab and a novel topoisomerase I inhibitor, DX-8951 derivative (DXd). The sensitivity of DXd was evaluated by a growth inhibition assay. The antitumor activity of U3-1402 was evaluated in a murine xenograft model in which its effects on cells, with a range of HER3 expression levels, were compared with those of patritumab alone, irinotecan, control-ADC, and saline. In the growth inhibition assay, all colorectal cancer cell lines were sensitive to DXd. In the tumor xenograft model, significant tumor regression with U3-1402 was observed both in the DiFi cell line (high HER3 expression; KRAS wild type) and in SW620 (high HER3 expression; KRAS mutation), but no treatment effect was observed in Colo320DM (low HER3 expression). Notably, SW620 tumor growth was significantly suppressed with U3-1402 compared with the saline-treated group (P < 0.001) and showed greater activity compared with the irinotecan group. By contrast, patritumab alone, control-ADC, and saline did not significantly differ in tumor growth inhibition. The antitumor activity of U3-1402 was dependent on HER3 expression level, but not on KRAS mutation status. These results support further investigation of development strategies for U3-1402 in patients with HER3-expressing colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shigehiro Koganemaru
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan.,Medical Science Program, Graduate School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasutoshi Kuboki
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan.
| | - Yoshikatsu Koga
- Division of Developmental Therapeutics, Research Center for Innovative Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Takashi Kojima
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Mayumi Yamauchi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Maeda
- Biomarker Department, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Kagari
- Oncology Research Laboratories I, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Hirotani
- Oncology Clinical Development Department, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Yasunaga
- Division of Developmental Therapeutics, Research Center for Innovative Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Matsumura
- Division of Developmental Therapeutics, Research Center for Innovative Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Doi
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Vo DT, Karanam NK, Ding L, Saha D, Yordy JS, Giri U, Heymach JV, Story MD. miR-125a-5p Functions as Tumor Suppressor microRNA And Is a Marker of Locoregional Recurrence And Poor prognosis in Head And Neck Cancer. Neoplasia 2019; 21:849-862. [PMID: 31325708 PMCID: PMC6642270 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2019.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short single-stranded RNAs, measuring 21 to 23 nucleotides in length and regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level through mRNA destabilization or repressing protein synthesis. Dysregulation of miRNAs can lead to tumorigenesis through changes in regulation of key cellular processes such as cell proliferation, cell survival, and apoptosis. miR-125a-5p has been implicated as a tumor suppressor miRNA in malignancies such as non-small cell lung cancer and colon cancer. However, the role of miR-125a-5p has not been fully investigated in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We performed microRNA microarray profiling of HNSCC tumor samples obtained from a prospective clinical trial evaluating the role of postoperative radiotherapy in head and neck cancer. We also mined through The Cancer Genome Atlas to evaluate expression and survival data. Biological experiments, including cell proliferation, flow cytometry, cell migration and invasion, clonogenic survival, and fluorescent microscopy, were conducted using HN5 and UM-SCC-22B cell lines. miR-125a-5p downregulation was associated with recurrent disease in a panel of high-risk HNSCC and then confirmed poor survival associated with low expression in HNSCC via the Cancer Genome Atlas, suggesting that miR-125a-5p acts as a tumor suppressor miRNA. We then demonstrated that miR-125a-5p regulates cell proliferation through cell cycle regulation at the G1/S transition. We also show that miR-125a-5p can alter cell migration and modulate sensitivity to ionizing radiation. Finally, we identified putative mRNA targets of miR-125a-5p, including ERBB2, EIF4EBP1, and TXNRD1, which support the tumor suppressive mechanism of miR-125a-5p. Functional validation of ERBB2 suggests that miR-125a-5p affects cell proliferation and sensitivity to ionizing radiation, in part, through ERBB2. Our data suggests that miR-125a-5p acts as a tumor suppressor miRNA, has potential as a diagnostic tool and may be a potential therapeutic target for the management and treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dat T Vo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Molecular Radiation Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Narasimha Kumar Karanam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Molecular Radiation Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Lianghao Ding
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Molecular Radiation Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Debabrata Saha
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Molecular Radiation Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - John S Yordy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Molecular Radiation Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Uma Giri
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - John V Heymach
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Michael D Story
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Molecular Radiation Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Preferential Response of Basal-Like Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines to EGFR-Targeted Therapy Depending on EREG-Driven Oncogenic Addiction. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11060795. [PMID: 31181806 PMCID: PMC6627901 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11060795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The management of locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), achieves only moderate response rates, and clinical trials that evaluated EGFR-blockade with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) yielded disappointing results. Inter-tumor heterogeneity may hinder the therapeutic efficiency of anti-EGFR treatments. HNSCC heterogeneity was addressed in several studies, which all converged towards the definition of molecular subgroups. They include the basal subgroup, defined by the deregulated expression of factors involved in the EGFR signaling pathway, including the epiregulin EGFR ligand encoded by the EREG gene. These observations indicate that basal tumors could be more sensitive to anti-EGFR treatments. To test this hypothesis, we performed a screen of a representative collection of basal versus non-basal HNSCC cell lines for their sensitivity to several anti-EGFR drugs (Cetuximab, Afatinib, and Gefitinib), tested as monotherapy or in combination with drugs that target closely-linked pathways [Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase/extracellular signal–regulated kinases (MEK), mammalian Target of Rapamycine (mTOR) or Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2 (HER2)]. Basal-like cell lines were found to be more sensitive to EGFR blockade alone or in combination with treatments that target MEK, mTOR, or HER2. Strikingly, the basal-like status was found to be a better predictor of cell response to EGFR blockade than clinically relevant mutations [e.g., cyclin-dependent kinase Inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A)]. Interestingly, we show that EGFR blockade inhibits EREG expression, and that EREG knock-down decreases basal cell clonogenic survival, suggesting that EREG expression could be a predictive functional marker of sensitivity to EGFR blockade in basal-like HNSCC.
Collapse
|
41
|
Michmerhuizen NL, Leonard E, Matovina C, Harris M, Herbst G, Kulkarni A, Zhai J, Jiang H, Carey TE, Brenner JC. Rationale for Using Irreversible Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors in Combination with Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Inhibitors for Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Mol Pharmacol 2019; 95:528-536. [PMID: 30858165 DOI: 10.1124/mol.118.115162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a common and debilitating form of cancer characterized by poor patient outcomes and low survival rates. In HNSCC, genetic aberrations in phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway genes are common, and small molecules targeting these pathways have shown modest effects as monotherapies in patients. Whereas emerging preclinical data support the combined use of PI3K and EGFR inhibitors in HNSCC, in-human studies have displayed limited clinical success so far. Here, we examined the responses of a large panel of patient-derived HNSCC cell lines to various combinations of PI3K and EGFR inhibitors, including EGFR agents with varying specificity and mechanistic characteristics. We confirmed the efficacy of PI3K and EGFR combination therapies, observing synergy with α isoform-selective PI3K inhibitor HS-173 and irreversible EGFR/ERBB2 dual inhibitor afatinib in most models tested. Surprisingly, however, our results demonstrated only modest improvement in response to HS-173 with reversible EGFR inhibitor gefitinib. This difference in efficacy was not explained by differences in ERBB target selectivity between afatinib and gefitinib; despite effectively disrupting ERBB2 phosphorylation, the addition of ERBB2 inhibitor CP-724714 failed to enhance the effect of HS-173 gefitinib dual therapy. Accordingly, although irreversible ERBB inhibitors showed strong synergistic activity with HS-173 in our models, none of the reversible ERBB inhibitors were synergistic in our study. Therefore, our results suggest that the ERBB inhibitor mechanism of action may be critical for enhanced synergy with PI3K inhibitors in HNSCC patients and motivate further preclinical studies for ERBB and PI3K combination therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole L Michmerhuizen
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Elizabeth Leonard
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Chloe Matovina
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Micah Harris
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Gabrielle Herbst
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Aditi Kulkarni
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jingyi Zhai
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Hui Jiang
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Thomas E Carey
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - J Chad Brenner
- Departments of Pharmacology (N.L.M., T.E.C., J.C.B.) and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (N.L.M., E.L., C.M., M.H., G.H., A.K., T.E.C., J.C.B.), and Rogel Cancer Center (T.E.C., J.C.B.), University of Michigan Medical School, and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health (J.Z., H.J.), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Byeon HK, Ku M, Yang J. Beyond EGFR inhibition: multilateral combat strategies to stop the progression of head and neck cancer. Exp Mol Med 2019; 51:1-14. [PMID: 30700700 PMCID: PMC6353966 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-018-0202-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) overexpression is common in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Targeted therapy specifically directed towards EGFR has been an area of keen interest in head and neck cancer research, as EGFR is potentially an integration point for convergent signaling. Despite the latest advancements in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics against EGFR, the survival rates of patients with advanced head and neck cancer remain disappointing due to anti-EGFR resistance. This review article will discuss recent multilateral efforts to discover and validate actionable strategies that involve signaling pathways in heterogenous head and neck cancer and to overcome anti-EGFR resistance in the era of precision medicine. Particularly, this review will discuss in detail the issue of cancer metabolism, which has recently emerged as a novel mechanism by which head and neck cancer may be successfully controlled according to different perspectives. South Korean researchers propose novel combination strategies for overcoming drug resistance and halting the progression of head and neck cancer (HNC). Although high levels of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) protein in HNC correlate with reduced survival, patients’ response to the EGFR inhibitor cetuximab often declines rapidly after a short period of effectiveness. Hyung Kwon Byeon at Korea University College of Medicine in Seoul and colleagues review current knowledge of the mechanisms underlying cetuximab resistance. They suggest that evaluating a patient’s genetic profile and combining cetuximab with drugs that enhance the effects of inhibiting EGFR signaling pathways (with inhibitors of other EGFR family members or proteins that mediate EGFR entry to the cell nucleus, for example) as well as with agents that inhibit cancer cell metabolism could be a more effective approach for treating HNC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyung Kwon Byeon
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Systems Molecular Oncology for Head and Neck Cancer, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Systems Molecular Radiology at Yonsei, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Minhee Ku
- Systems Molecular Radiology at Yonsei, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Radiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Research Institute of Radiological Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaemoon Yang
- Systems Molecular Radiology at Yonsei, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Radiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Research Institute of Radiological Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Co-targeting EGFR and IKKβ/NF-κB signalling pathways in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a potential novel therapy for head and neck squamous cell cancer. Br J Cancer 2018; 120:306-316. [PMID: 30585254 PMCID: PMC6353914 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-018-0351-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) proliferation and therapy resistance, but the efficacy of targeting of EGFR for therapy has been limited. Here, we explore the molecular link between EGFR and inhibitor of κB kinase β/nuclear factor-κB (IKKβ/NF-κB) signalling pathways in the regulation of HNSCC EGFR inhibitor resistance. Methods We performed in vitro experiments in eight human HNSCC cell lines and a patient-derived HNSCC cell line as well as in vivo xenografts in a human HNSCC cell line. Results We found that treatment of all HNSCC cells with Gefitinib and Erlotinib, two Food Drug Administration-approved EGFR inhibitors, blocked the activity of Akt/mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase, two crucial downstream effectors of EGFR, but up-regulated IKKβ/NF-κB signalling. In addition, induction of IKKβ/NF-κB by EGFR inhibitors required HER2 and HER3 expression. In keeping with these, IKKβ inhibitor CmpdA synergistically enhanced the efficacy of EGFR inhibitors to further inhibit in vitro HNSCC cell growth. Importantly, we demonstrated that the combination of Gefitinib with CmpdA inhibited xenograft tumour formation. Conclusion Our data demonstrated that co-targeting EGFR and IKKβ with Gefitinib and IKKβ inhibitors could provide a potential novel therapy for head and neck squamous cell cancer.
Collapse
|
44
|
Tian Y, Ma Y, Wu S, Zhang T, Li Z, Wang G, Zhang J. Understand the acquired resistance of RTK inhibitors by computational receptor tyrosine kinases network. Comput Biol Chem 2018; 76:275-282. [DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2018.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|
45
|
Ouyang X, Barling A, Lesch A, Tyner JW, Choonoo G, Zheng C, Jeng S, West TM, Clayburgh D, Courtneidge SA, McWeeney SK, Kulesz-Martin M. Induction of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) as a novel mechanism of EGFR inhibitor resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patient-derived models. Cancer Biol Ther 2018; 19:921-933. [PMID: 29856687 PMCID: PMC6300392 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2018.1451285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) currently only has one FDA-approved cancer intrinsic targeted therapy, the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor cetuximab, to which only approximately 10% of tumors are sensitive. In order to extend therapy options, we subjected patient-derived HNSCC cells to small-molecule inhibitor and siRNA screens, first, to find effective combination therapies with an EGFR inhibitor, and second, to determine a potential mechanistic basis for repurposing the FDA approved agents for HNSCC. The combinations of EGFR inhibitor with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitors demonstrated synergy at the highest ratio in our cohort, 4/8 HNSCC patients' derived tumor cells, and this corresponded with an effectiveness of siRNA targeting ALK combined with the EGFR inhibitor gefitinib. Co-targeting EGFR and ALK decreased HNSCC cell number and colony formation ability and increased annexin V staining. Because ALK expression is low and ALK fusions are infrequent in HNSCC, we hypothesized that gefitinib treatment could induce ALK expression. We show that ALK expression was induced in HNSCC patient-derived cells both in 2D and 3D patient-derived cell culture models, and in patient-derived xenografts in mice. Four different ALK inhibitors, including two (ceritinib and brigatinib) FDA approved for lung cancer, were effective in combination with gefitinib. Together, we identified induction of ALK by EGFR inhibitor as a novel mechanism potentially relevant to resistance to EGFR inhibitor, a high ratio of response of HNSCC patient-derived tumor cells to a combination of ALK and EGFR inhibitors, and applicability of repurposing ALK inhibitors to HNSCC that lack ALK aberrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Ouyang
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Ashley Barling
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Aletha Lesch
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Jeffrey W. Tyner
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Gabrielle Choonoo
- Division of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Department of Medical Informatics & Clinical Epidemiology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Christina Zheng
- Division of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Department of Medical Informatics & Clinical Epidemiology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Sophia Jeng
- Division of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Department of Medical Informatics & Clinical Epidemiology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Toni M. West
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California at Davis, 451 Health Science Dr., Davis, California
| | - Daniel Clayburgh
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
- Operative Care Division, Portland VA Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Sara A. Courtneidge
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Shannon K. McWeeney
- Division of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Department of Medical Informatics & Clinical Epidemiology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| | - Molly Kulesz-Martin
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, Oregon
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Saada-Bouzid E, Milano G, Thariat J. [Genomic characterization of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Impact and challenges for therapeutic management]. Bull Cancer 2018; 105:820-829. [PMID: 29937334 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2018.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinomas are the most frequent subgroup among head and neck malignant tumors (HNSCC). Tobacco (±alcohol) and HPV infection, the two main risk factors, define two entities with distinct anatomo-clinical and genetic features. HPV-positive, non-tobacco-related HNSCCs are associated with a better prognosis, a rather simple genomic profile, frequent activating mutations of genes involved in pi3kinase-pathway, and the scarcity of mutations of tumor suppressor genes. HPV-negative, tobacco-related HNSCC are genetically more complex, are characterized by almost mandatory inactivating mutations/deletions of tumor suppressor genes (TP53, CDKN2A) and the possible, but less frequent, activating mutations or amplifications of some oncogenes that encode for cell cycle proteins or receptors with tyrosine kinase activity. This review describes the genetic features of HNSCC and discusses how these abnormalities could be incorporated into a therapeutic approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esma Saada-Bouzid
- Centre Antoine-Lacassagne, département d'oncologie médicale, 33, avenue de Valombrose, 06189 Nice, France; Centre Antoine-Lacassagne, laboratoire d'onco-pharmacologie, 33, avenue de Valombrose, 06189 Nice, France.
| | - Gérard Milano
- Centre Antoine-Lacassagne, laboratoire d'onco-pharmacologie, 33, avenue de Valombrose, 06189 Nice, France
| | - Juliette Thariat
- Centre François-Baclesse, département de radiothérapie, 3, avenue Général-Harris, 14076 Caen, France
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Khaznadar SS, Khan M, Schmid E, Gebhart S, Becker ET, Krahn T, von Ahsen O. EGFR overexpression is not common in patients with head and neck cancer. Cell lines are not representative for the clinical situation in this indication. Oncotarget 2018; 9:28965-28975. [PMID: 29989001 PMCID: PMC6034751 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Based on expression data, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) emerged as therapeutic target in Head and Neck Cancer but clinical efficacy of EGFR inhibitors was very limited. We reinvestigated the EGFR expression and activation status necessary for response in cell lines and compared that to clinical samples. Methods Clinical samples of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC, n=63), mostly from late stage (IV) and poorly or undifferentiated character and cultured cell lines (n=14) were tested by immunohistochemistry (IHC) (n=55) and sandwich immunoassays (n=63) for expression and phosphorylation of EGFR (Tyrosine-1173). Response of 14 different HNSCC cell lines to Erlotinib was tested in proliferation assays. Results Most HNSCC cell lines respond to Erlotinib. EGFR is phosphorylated in these cell lines. Resistant cell lines display very low level EGFR expression and phosphorylation. EGFR activity in clinical samples is significantly below that observed in cell lines. In clinical samples, EGFR is not overexpressed on the single cellular level. We show similar levels of EGFR expression in growing keratinocytes and tumor cells. Conclusions Cell lines are not representative of the clinical situation in HNSCC. Larger studies should investigate whether patient subgroups with activating EGFR mutations or overexpression can be identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sami Sebastian Khaznadar
- Biomarker Research, Bayer AG, 13353 Berlin, Germany.,Present address: University Bonn, 53113 Bonn, Germany
| | - Martin Khan
- Charite, Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany.,Present address: Klinikum Dahme-Spreewald GmbH, 15711 Königs-Wusterhausen, Germany
| | - Elke Schmid
- Biomarker Research, Bayer AG, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Krahn
- Biomarker Research, Bayer AG, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Jacob W, James I, Hasmann M, Weisser M. Clinical development of HER3-targeting monoclonal antibodies: Perils and progress. Cancer Treat Rev 2018; 68:111-123. [PMID: 29944978 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family consists of four transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinases: epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), HER2, HER3, and HER4. They are part of a complex signalling network and stimulate intracellular pathways regulating cell growth and differentiation. So far, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting EGFR and HER2 have been developed and approved. Recently, focus has turned to HER3 as it may play an important role in resistance to EGFR- and HER2-targeting therapies. HER3-targeting agents have been undergoing clinical evaluation for the last 10 years and currently thirteen mAbs are in phase 1 or 2 clinical studies. Single agent activity has proven to be limited, however, the tolerability was favourable. Thus, combinations of HER3-binding mAbs with other HER-targeting therapies or chemotherapies have been pursued in various solid tumor entities. Data indicate that the HER3-binding ligand heregulin may serve as a response prediction marker for HER3-targeting therapy. Within this review the current status of clinical development of HER3-targeting compounds is described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Jacob
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany.
| | - Ian James
- A4P Consulting Ltd, Discovery Park, Sandwich, UK
| | - Max Hasmann
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Martin Weisser
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Palomo AG, Medinilla AL, Segatori V, Barroso MDC, Blanco R, Gabri MR, Pérez AC, Monzón KL. Synergistic potentiation of the anti-metastatic effect of anti EGFR mAb by its combination with immunotherapies targeting the ganglioside NGcGM3. Oncotarget 2018; 9:24069-24080. [PMID: 29844873 PMCID: PMC5963610 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Several Anti-EGFR mAbs are register for the treatment of human cancer. However, their impact on patients overall survival has been limited by tumor resistance. N-Glycolyl variant of GM3 ganglioside (NGcGM3) is specifically expressed in some human tumors, and it has been associated with a poor prognosis. Several reports have documented that GM3 physically associates to EGFR inhibiting its ligand depend phosphorylation, but it also facilitates an alternative/compensatory signaling cascade mediated by Uroquinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor (uPAR) and integrin α5β1 interaction. However, the difference between NGc and N-Acetylated (NAc) variants of GM3 regarding such interactions is unknown. We hypothesized that enrichment of NGcGM3 expression in tumors relates to advantages of this ganglioside, on ensuring both EGFR and uPAR pathways optimal function. We explored the impact of combining an anti-EGFR (7A7 mAb) with anti-NGcGM3 therapies: NGcGM3/VSSP vaccine or 14F7 mAb. Both combinations synergistically increase overall survival in two models of lung metastasis: 3LL-D122 and 4T1; but combination with NGcGM3/VSSP vaccine is significantly more effective. In 3LL-D122-metastasis, of mice treated with the best combination, both EGFR and uPAR/α5β1 integrin pathways are turn off (I.e expression of uPAR/α5β1; and phosphorylation of EGFR, Stat3, Src and FAK are reduced); and tumor angiogenesis is decreased. Interestingly, combination treatment increases tumor infiltrating CD4+T, CD8+T and NK+-cells. Furthermore, a positive clinical outcome is reported for a cancer patient treated with an anti-EGFR mAb and anti-NGcGM3 therapy. Overall, our results support the combination of anti EGFR antibodies with therapies targeting NGcGM3 to increase their efficacy in future clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Valeria Segatori
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Quilmes National University, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Rances Blanco
- Center of Molecular Immunology (CIM), Atabey, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Mariano R Gabri
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Quilmes National University, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
De Pauw I, Lardon F, Van den Bossche J, Baysal H, Fransen E, Deschoolmeester V, Pauwels P, Peeters M, Vermorken JB, Wouters A. Simultaneous targeting of EGFR, HER2, and HER4 by afatinib overcomes intrinsic and acquired cetuximab resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. Mol Oncol 2018; 12:830-854. [PMID: 29603584 PMCID: PMC5983215 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR, HER1) is a therapeutic target in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). After initial promising results with EGFR-targeted therapies such as cetuximab, therapeutic resistance has become a major clinical problem, and new treatment options are therefore necessary. Moreover, the relationship between HER receptors, anti-EGFR therapies, and the human papillomavirus (HPV) status in HNSCC is not fully understood. In contrast to first-generation EGFR inhibitors, afatinib irreversibly inhibits multiple HER receptors simultaneously. Therefore, treatment with afatinib might result in a more pronounced therapeutic benefit, even in patients experiencing cetuximab resistance. In this study, the cytotoxic effect of afatinib as single agent and in combination with cisplatin was investigated in cetuximab-sensitive, intrinsically cetuximab-resistant, and acquired cetuximab-resistant HNSCC cell lines with different HPV status under normoxia and hypoxia. Furthermore, the influence of cetuximab resistance, HPV, and hypoxia on the expression of HER receptors was investigated. Our results demonstrated that afatinib was able to establish cytotoxicity in cetuximab-sensitive, intrinsically cetuximab-resistant, and acquired cetuximab-resistant HNSCC cell lines, independent of the HPV status. However, cross-resistance between cetuximab and afatinib might be possible. Treatment with afatinib caused a G0 /G1 cell cycle arrest as well as induction of apoptotic cell death. Additive to antagonistic interactions between afatinib and cisplatin could be observed. Neither cetuximab resistance nor HPV status significantly influenced the expression of HER receptors in HNSCC cell lines. In contrast, the expression of EGFR, HER2, and HER3 was significantly altered under hypoxia. Oxygen deficiency is a common characteristic of HNSCC tumors, and these hypoxic tumor regions often contain cells that are more resistant to treatment. However, we observed that afatinib maintained its cytotoxic effect under hypoxia. In conclusion, our preclinical data support the hypothesis that afatinib might be a promising therapeutic strategy to treat patients with HNSCC experiencing intrinsic or acquired cetuximab resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ines De Pauw
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Filip Lardon
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | | | - Hasan Baysal
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Erik Fransen
- StatUa Center for Statistics, University of Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Deschoolmeester
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,Department of Pathology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Patrick Pauwels
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,Department of Pathology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Marc Peeters
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,Department of Medical Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Jan Baptist Vermorken
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,Department of Medical Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - An Wouters
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|