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Romaniuk-Drapała A, Totoń E, Taube M, Idzik M, Rubiś B, Lisiak N. Breast Cancer Stem Cells and Tumor Heterogeneity: Characteristics and Therapeutic Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2481. [PMID: 39001543 PMCID: PMC11240630 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16132481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most frequently detected malignancies worldwide. It is responsible for more than 15% of all death cases caused by cancer in women. Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease representing various histological types, molecular characteristics, and clinical profiles. However, all breast cancers are organized in a hierarchy of heterogeneous cell populations, with a small proportion of cancer stem cells (breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs)) playing a putative role in cancer progression, and they are responsible for therapeutic failure. In different molecular subtypes of breast cancer, they present different characteristics, with specific marker profiles, prognoses, and treatments. Recent efforts have focused on tackling the Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and HER2 signaling pathways. Developing diagnostics and therapeutic strategies enables more efficient elimination of the tumor mass together with the stem cell population. Thus, the knowledge about appropriate therapeutic methods targeting both "normal" breast cancer cells and breast cancer stem cell subpopulations is crucial for success in cancer elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Romaniuk-Drapała
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Collegium Pharmaceuticum, Rokietnicka Str. 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Ewa Totoń
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Collegium Pharmaceuticum, Rokietnicka Str. 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Magdalena Taube
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Collegium Pharmaceuticum, Rokietnicka Str. 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Idzik
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Collegium Pharmaceuticum, Rokietnicka Str. 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Błażej Rubiś
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Collegium Pharmaceuticum, Rokietnicka Str. 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Natalia Lisiak
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Collegium Pharmaceuticum, Rokietnicka Str. 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
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2
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Raghav KP, Moasser MM. Molecular Pathways and Mechanisms of HER2 in Cancer Therapy. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:2351-2361. [PMID: 36574481 PMCID: PMC10293474 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-22-0283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The oncogene ERBB2 encoding the receptor tyrosine-protein kinase erbB-2 (HER2) is frequently overexpressed or amplified and occasionally mutated in a variety of human cancers. The early discovery of this oncogene, its established oncogenic relevance in diverse cancers, its substantial expression on the surface of cancer cells, and its druggable catalytic activity have made it one of the most pursued targets in the history of cancer drug development. Initiatives targeting HER2 provided the early stimulus for several transformational pharmaceutical technologies, including mAbs, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates, and others. The seismic impact of these efforts has been felt in treatment of many cancers, including breast, gastroesophageal, lung, colorectal, and others. This impact continues to broaden with increasing indications on the horizon and a plethora of novel agents in development. However, implementation of these therapeutic strategies has been complex. The clinical translation of every one of these classes of agents has been notable for underperformance or overperformance characteristics that have informed new lines of research providing deeper insights into the mechanistic complexities and unrealized opportunities provided by this molecular target. Despite all the successes to date, the preponderance of scientific evidence indicates that the full potential of HER2 as a target for cancer therapeutics is far greater than currently realized, and numerous lines of investigation are ongoing to deepen and broaden the scope of impact of HER2 as a signaling, homing, or immunologic target. In this review, we explore the existing data and evolving paradigms surrounding this remarkable target for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanwal P.S. Raghav
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mark M. Moasser
- Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
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3
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van der Gaag S, Bartelink IH, Vis AN, Burchell GL, Oprea-Lager DE, Hendrikse H. Pharmacological Optimization of PSMA-Based Radioligand Therapy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123020. [PMID: 36551776 PMCID: PMC9775864 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common malignancy in men of middle and older age. The standard treatment strategy for PCa ranges from active surveillance in low-grade, localized PCa to radical prostatectomy, external beam radiation therapy, hormonal treatment and chemotherapy. Recently, the use of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted radioligand therapy (RLT) for metastatic castration-resistant PCa has been approved. PSMA is predominantly, but not exclusively, expressed on PCa cells. Because of its high expression in PCa, PSMA is a promising target for diagnostics and therapy. To understand the currently used RLT, knowledge about pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of the PSMA ligand and the PSMA protein itself is crucial. PK and PD properties of the ligand and its target determine the duration and extent of the effect. Knowledge on the concentration-time profile, the target affinity and target abundance may help to predict the effect of RLT. Increased specific binding of radioligands to PSMA on PCa cells may be associated with better treatment response, where nonspecific binding may increase the risk of toxicity in healthy organs. Optimization of the radioligand, as well as synergistic effects of concomitant agents and an improved dosing strategy, may lead to more individualized treatment and better overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne van der Gaag
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Imke H. Bartelink
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - André N. Vis
- Department of Urology, Prostate Cancer Network Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - George L. Burchell
- Medical Library, VU University, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniela E. Oprea-Lager
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harry Hendrikse
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-6-25716236
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4
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Cheng WJ, Lin SY, Chuang KH, Chen M, Ho HO, Chen LC, Hsieh CM, Sheu MT. Combined Docetaxel/Pictilisib-Loaded mPEGylated Nanocarriers with Dual HER2 Targeting Antibodies for Synergistic Chemotherapy of Breast Cancer. Int J Nanomedicine 2022; 17:5353-5374. [DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s388066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Pattanayak B, Lameirinhas A, Torres-Ruiz S, Burgués O, Rovira A, Martínez MT, Tapia M, Zazo S, Albanell J, Rojo F, Bermejo B, Eroles P. Role of SALL4 in HER2+ Breast Cancer Progression: Regulating PI3K/AKT Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13292. [PMID: 36362083 PMCID: PMC9655635 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment for the HER2+ breast cancer subtype is still unsatisfactory, despite breakthroughs in research. The discovery of various new molecular mechanisms of transcription factors may help to make treatment regimens more effective. The transcription factor SALL4 has been related to aggressiveness and resistance therapy in cancer. Its molecular mechanisms and involvement in various signaling pathways are unknown in the HER2+ breast cancer subtype. In this study, we have evaluated the implication of SALL4 in the HER2+ subtype through its expression in patients' samples and gain and loss of function in HER2+ cell lines. We found higher SALL4 expression in breast cancer tissues compared to healthy tissue. Interestingly, high SALL4 expression was associated with disease relapse and poor patient survival. In HER2+ cell lines, transient overexpression of SALL4 modulates PI3K/AKT signaling through regulating PTEN expression and BCL2, which increases cell survival and proliferation while reducing the efficacy of trastuzumab. SALL4 has also been observed to regulate the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stemness features. SALL4 overexpression significantly reduced the epithelial markers E-cadherin, while it increased the mesenchymal markers β-catenin, vimentin and fibronectin. Furthermore, it has been also observed an increased expression of MYC, an essential transcription factor for regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition and/or cancer stem cells. Our study demonstrates, for the first time, the importance of SALL4 in the HER2+ subtype and partial regulation of trastuzumab sensitivity. It provides a viable molecular mechanism-driven therapeutic strategy for an important subset of HER2-overexpressing patients whose malignancies are mediated by SALL4 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Lameirinhas
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Octavio Burgués
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Rovira
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Teresa Martínez
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Tapia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Sandra Zazo
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Joan Albanell
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital del Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Federico Rojo
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Bermejo
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Pilar Eroles
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
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6
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Metsiou DN, Deligianni D, Giannopoulou E, Kalofonos H, Koutras A, Athanassiou G. Adhesion strength and anti-tumor agents regulate vinculin of breast cancer cells. Front Oncol 2022; 12:811508. [PMID: 36052248 PMCID: PMC9424896 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.811508] [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: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The onset and progression of cancer are strongly associated with the dissipation of adhesion forces between cancer cells, thus facilitating their incessant attachment and detachment from the extracellular matrix (ECM) to move toward metastasis. During this process, cancer cells undergo mechanical stresses and respond to these stresses with membrane deformation while inducing protrusions to invade the surrounding tissues. Cellular response to mechanical forces is inherently related to the reorganization of the cytoskeleton, the dissipation of cell–cell junctions, and the adhesion to the surrounding ECM. Moreover, the role of focal adhesion proteins, and particularly the role of vinculin in cell attachment and detachment during migration, is critical, indicating the tight cell–ECM junctions, which favor or inhibit the metastatic cascade. The biomechanical analysis of these sequences of events may elucidate the tumor progression and the potential of cancer cells for migration and metastasis. In this work, we focused on the evaluation of the spreading rate and the estimation of the adhesion strength between breast cancer cells and ECM prior to and post-treatment with anti-tumor agents. Specifically, different tamoxifen concentrations were used for ER+ breast cancer cells, while even concentrations of trastuzumab and pertuzumab were used for HER2+ cells. Analysis of cell stiffness indicated an increased elastic Young’s modulus post-treatment in both MCF-7 and SKBR-3 cells. The results showed that the post-treatment spreading rate was significantly decreased in both types of breast cancer, suggesting a lower metastatic potential. Additionally, treated cells required greater adhesion forces to detach from the ECM, thus preventing detachment events of cancer cells from the ECM, and therefore, the probability of cell motility, migration, and metastasis was confined. Furthermore, post-detachment and post-treatment vinculin levels were increased, indicating tighter cell–ECM junctions, hence limiting the probability of cell detachment and, therefore, cell motility and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Despoina Nektaria Metsiou
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics, University of Patras, Patra, Greece
- *Correspondence: Despoina Nektaria Metsiou, ;
| | - Despina Deligianni
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics, University of Patras, Patra, Greece
| | - Efstathia Giannopoulou
- Clinical Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Patra, Greece
| | - Haralabos Kalofonos
- Clinical Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Patra, Greece
| | - Angelos Koutras
- Clinical Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Patra, Greece
| | - George Athanassiou
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics, University of Patras, Patra, Greece
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7
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Ding X, Sharko AC, McDermott MSJ, Schools GP, Chumanevich A, Ji H, Li J, Zhang L, Mack ZT, Sikirzhytski V, Shtutman M, Ivers L, O’Donovan N, Crown J, Győrffy B, Chen M, Roninson IB, Broude EV. Inhibition of CDK8/19 Mediator kinase potentiates HER2-targeting drugs and bypasses resistance to these agents in vitro and in vivo. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2201073119. [PMID: 35914167 PMCID: PMC9371674 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2201073119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancers (BrCas) that overexpress oncogenic tyrosine kinase receptor HER2 are treated with HER2-targeting antibodies (such as trastuzumab) or small-molecule kinase inhibitors (such as lapatinib). However, most patients with metastatic HER2+ BrCa have intrinsic resistance and nearly all eventually become resistant to HER2-targeting therapy. Resistance to HER2-targeting drugs frequently involves transcriptional reprogramming associated with constitutive activation of different signaling pathways. We have investigated the role of CDK8/19 Mediator kinase, a regulator of transcriptional reprogramming, in the response of HER2+ BrCa to HER2-targeting drugs. CDK8 was in the top 1% of all genes ranked by correlation with shorter relapse-free survival among treated HER2+ BrCa patients. Selective CDK8/19 inhibitors (senexin B and SNX631) showed synergistic interactions with lapatinib and trastuzumab in a panel of HER2+ BrCa cell lines, overcoming and preventing resistance to HER2-targeting drugs. The synergistic effects were mediated in part through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and reduced by PI3K inhibition. Combination of HER2- and CDK8/19-targeting agents inhibited STAT1 and STAT3 phosphorylation at S727 and up-regulated tumor suppressor BTG2. The growth of xenograft tumors formed by lapatinib-sensitive or -resistant HER2+ breast cancer cells was partially inhibited by SNX631 alone and strongly suppressed by the combination of SNX631 and lapatinib, overcoming lapatinib resistance. These effects were associated with decreased tumor cell proliferation and altered recruitment of stromal components to the xenograft tumors. These results suggest potential clinical benefit of combining HER2- and CDK8/19-targeting drugs in the treatment of metastatic HER2+ BrCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaokai Ding
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Amanda C. Sharko
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Martina S. J. McDermott
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Gary P. Schools
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Alexander Chumanevich
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Hao Ji
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Zachary T. Mack
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Vitali Sikirzhytski
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Michael Shtutman
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Laura Ivers
- National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Norma O’Donovan
- National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - John Crown
- National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Balázs Győrffy
- Department of Bioinformatics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, H-1085, Hungary
- Oncology Biomarker Research Group, Research Center for Natural Sciences, H-1117, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mengqian Chen
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
- Senex Biotechnology, Inc., 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Igor B. Roninson
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Eugenia V. Broude
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC, 29208
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8
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Moasser MM. Inactivating amplified HER2: challenges, dilemmas, and future directions. Cancer Res 2022; 82:2811-2820. [PMID: 35731927 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-1121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The pharmaceutical inactivation of driver oncogenes has revolutionized the treatment of cancer replacing cytotoxic chemotherapeutic approaches with kinase inhibitor therapies for many types of cancers. This approach has not yet been realized for the treatment of HER2-amplified cancers. The monotherapy activities associated with HER2-targeting antibodies and kinase inhibitors are modest, and their clinical use has been in combination with, and not in replacement of cytotoxic chemotherapies. This stands in sharp contrast to achievements in the treatment of many other oncogene-driven cancers. The mechanism-based treatment hypothesis regarding the inactivation of HER2 justifies expectations far beyond what is currently realized. Overcoming this barrier requires mechanistic insights that can fuel new directions for pursuit, but scientific investigation of this treatment hypothesis, particularly with regards to trastuzumab, has been complicated by conflicting and confusing data sets, ironclad dogma, and mechanistic conclusions that have repeatedly failed to translate clinically. We are now approaching a point of convergence regarding the challenges and resiliency in this tumor driver, and I will provide here a review and opinion to inform where we currently stand with this treatment hypothesis and where the future potential lies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark M Moasser
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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9
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Lim M, Nguyen TH, Niland C, Reid LE, Jat PS, Saunus JM, Lakhani SR. Landscape of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Heterodimers in Brain Metastases. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030533. [PMID: 35158800 PMCID: PMC8833370 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030533] [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: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary HER2+ breast cancer patients are treated with agents that tag HER2+ tumour cells for elimination by the immune system, down-modulate HER2 activity and/or block the formation of HER2 dimers, including the neuregulin-1 receptor, HER2-HER3. HER2-targeted therapies prolong survival by lowering the risk of relapse, but do not prevent brain metastases. The reasons for this are not fully understood. We quantified HER2-HER3 dimers in 203 brain metastases, and 34 primary breast tumour samples. Dimer frequency was relatively high in brain metastases from breast, ovarian, lung and kidney cancers, and in brain metastases compared to patient-matched breast tumours; but did not reliably correlate with HER2/HER3 expression or activation. In in vitro experiments, pertuzumab failed to suppress HER2-HER3 dimers in HER2+ breast cancer cells provided with a saturating concentration of neuregulin-1. These findings may provide insights about the differences in intracranial versus extracranial efficacy of HER2-targeted therapies. Abstract HER2+ breast cancer patients have an elevated risk of developing brain metastases (BM), despite adjuvant HER2-targeted therapy. The mechanisms underpinning this reduced intracranial efficacy are unclear. We optimised the in situ proximity ligation assay (PLA) for detection of the high-affinity neuregulin-1 receptor, HER2-HER3 (a key target of pertuzumab), in archival tissue samples and developed a pipeline for high throughput extraction of PLA data from fluorescent microscope image files. Applying this to a large BM sample cohort (n = 159) showed that BM from breast, ovarian, lung and kidney cancers have higher HER2-HER3 levels than other primary tumour types (melanoma, colorectal and prostate cancers). HER2 status, and tumour cell membrane expression of pHER2(Y1221/1222) and pHER3(Y1222) were positively, but not exclusively, associated with HER2-HER3 frequency. In an independent cohort (n = 78), BM had significantly higher HER2-HER3 levels than matching primary tumours (p = 0.0002). For patients who had two craniotomy procedures, HER2-HER3 dimer levels were lower in the consecutive lesion (n = 7; p = 0.006). We also investigated the effects of trastuzumab and pertuzumab on five different heterodimers in vitro: HER2-EGFR, HER2-HER4, HER2-HER3, HER3-HER4, HER3-EGFR. Treatment significantly altered the absolute frequencies of individual complexes in SKBr3 and/or MDA-MB-361 cells, but in the presence of neuregulin-1, the overall distribution was not markedly altered, with HER2-HER3 and HER2-HER4 remaining predominant. Together, these findings suggest that markers of HER2 and HER3 expression are not always indicative of dimerization, and that pertuzumab may be less effective at reducing HER2-HER3 dimerization in the context of excess neuregulin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm Lim
- Faculty of Medicine, UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; (M.L.); (C.N.); (L.E.R.)
| | - Tam H. Nguyen
- Flow Cytometry and Imaging Facility, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Colleen Niland
- Faculty of Medicine, UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; (M.L.); (C.N.); (L.E.R.)
| | - Lynne E. Reid
- Faculty of Medicine, UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; (M.L.); (C.N.); (L.E.R.)
| | - Parmjit S. Jat
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease and MRC Prion Unit, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK;
| | - Jodi M. Saunus
- Faculty of Medicine, UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; (M.L.); (C.N.); (L.E.R.)
- Correspondence: (J.M.S.); (S.R.L.)
| | - Sunil R. Lakhani
- Faculty of Medicine, UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; (M.L.); (C.N.); (L.E.R.)
- Pathology Queensland, Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
- Correspondence: (J.M.S.); (S.R.L.)
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10
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Lyu C, Ye Y, Lensing MM, Wagner KU, Weigel RJ, Chen S. Targeting Gi/o protein-coupled receptor signaling blocks HER2-induced breast cancer development and enhances HER2-targeted therapy. JCI Insight 2021; 6:e150532. [PMID: 34343132 PMCID: PMC8492335 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.150532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
GPCRs are highly desirable drug targets for human disease. Although GPCR dysfunction drives development and progression of many tumors, including breast cancer (BC), targeting individual GPCRs has limited efficacy as a cancer therapy because numerous GPCRs are activated. Here, we sought a new way of blocking GPCR activation in HER2+ BC by targeting a subgroup of GPCRs that couple to Gi/o proteins (Gi/o-GPCRs). In mammary epithelial cells of transgenic mouse models, and BC cell lines, HER2 hyperactivation altered GPCR expression, particularly, Gi/o-GPCR expression. Gi/o-GPCR stimulation transactivated EGFR and HER2 and activated the PI3K/AKT and Src pathways. If we uncoupled Gi/o-GPCRs from their cognate Gi/o proteins by pertussis toxin (PTx), then BC cell proliferation and migration was inhibited in vitro and HER2-driven tumor formation and metastasis were suppressed in vivo. Moreover, targeting Gi/o-GPCR signaling via PTx, PI3K, or Src inhibitors enhanced HER2-targeted therapy. These results indicate that, in BC cells, HER2 hyperactivation drives aberrant Gi/o-GPCR signaling and Gi/o-GPCR signals converge on the PI3K/AKT and Src signaling pathways to promote cancer progression and resistance to HER2-targeted therapy. Our findings point to a way to pharmacologically deactivate GPCR signaling to block tumor growth and enhance therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cancan Lyu
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States of America
| | - Yuanchao Ye
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States of America
| | - Maddison M Lensing
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States of America
| | - Kay-Uwe Wagner
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, United States of America
| | - Ronald J Weigel
- Department of Surgery, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States of America
| | - Songhai Chen
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States of America
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11
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Design, Synthesis, and Antitumor Activity of Olmutinib Derivatives Containing Acrylamide Moiety. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26103041. [PMID: 34065165 PMCID: PMC8160875 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26103041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Two series of olmutinib derivatives containing an acrylamide moiety were designed and synthesized, and their IC50 values against cancer cell lines (A549, H1975, NCI-H460, LO2, and MCF-7) were evaluated. Most of the compounds exhibited moderate cytotoxic activity against the five cancer cell lines. The most promising compound, H10, showed not only excellent activity against EGFR kinase but also positive biological activity against PI3K kinase. The structure–activity relationship (SAR) suggested that the introduction of dimethylamine scaffolds with smaller spatial structures was more favorable for antitumor activity. Additionally, the substitution of different acrylamide side chains had different effects on the activity of compounds. Generally, compounds H7 and H10 were confirmed as promising antitumor agents.
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12
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Li S, Sheng J, Liu Z, Fan Y, Zhang C, Lv T, Hu S, Jin J, Yu W, Song Y. Potent antitumour of the mTORC1/2 dual inhibitor AZD2014 in docetaxel-sensitive and docetaxel-resistant castration-resistant prostate cancer cells. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:2436-2449. [PMID: 33507584 PMCID: PMC7933970 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies indicate mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) may play an important role in PCa progression and drug resistance. Here, we investigated the effects of a novel mTORC1/C2 dual inhibitor, AZD2014, on naive and docetaxel (Doc)‐pre‐treated castration‐resistant PCa (CRPC) cells and explored its therapeutic potential in CRPCs. In the current study, AZD2014 has a greater inhibitory effect against 4EBP1 and AKT phosphorylation than rapamycin in CRPC cells and prevented the feedback activation of AKT signalling. Importantly, AZD2014 suppressed CRPC cell growth in vitro by suppressing proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest at G1 phase and autophagy to a greater extent than rapamycin. Moreover, AZD2014 was more efficacious than rapamycin in inhibiting migration, invasion and EMT progression in Doc‐sensitive and Doc‐resistant CRPC cells. Overall, AZD2014 showed significant antitumour effects. Thereby, the current study highlights a reliable theoretical basis for the clinical application of AZD2014 in both Doc‐sensitive and Doc‐resistant CRPCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senmao Li
- Department of Urology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male), Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, National Research Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University First Hospital and Institute of Urology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jindong Sheng
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy of Tianjin, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenhua Liu
- Department of Urology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male), Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, National Research Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University First Hospital and Institute of Urology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Fan
- Department of Urology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male), Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, National Research Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University First Hospital and Institute of Urology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Cuijian Zhang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male), Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, National Research Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University First Hospital and Institute of Urology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Tianjing Lv
- Department of Urology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male), Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, National Research Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University First Hospital and Institute of Urology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Hu
- Department of Urology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male), Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, National Research Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University First Hospital and Institute of Urology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Jin
- Department of Urology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male), Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, National Research Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University First Hospital and Institute of Urology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Yu
- Department of Urology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male), Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, National Research Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University First Hospital and Institute of Urology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Song
- Department of Urology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male), Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, National Research Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University First Hospital and Institute of Urology, Peking University, Beijing, China
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13
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Zhang Y. The root cause of drug resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer and the therapeutic approaches to overcoming the resistance. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 218:107677. [PMID: 32898548 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
HER2 is a well-known oncogenic receptor tyrosine kinase. HER2 gene amplification occurs in about 20% of breast cancer (BC), which leads to overexpression of HER2 protein, known as HER2-positive BC. Inhibitors of HER2 have significantly improved the prognosis of patients with this subset of BC. Since 1998, seven HER2 inhibitors have been developed to treat this disease. However, drug resistance is common and remains a major unresolved clinical problem. Patients typically show disease progression after some time on treatment. This review discusses the complexity and diversified nature of HER2 signaling, the mechanisms of actions and therapeutic activities of all HER2 inhibitors, the roles of HER2 and other signaling proteins in HER2-positive BC resistant to the inhibitors, the non-cell-autonomous mechanisms of drug resistance, and the heterogeneity of tumor HER2 expression. The review presents the concept that drug resistance in HER2-positive BC results primarily from the inability of HER2 inhibitors to deplete HER2. Emerging therapeutics that are promising for overcoming drug resistance are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuesheng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, USA.
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14
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Shorning BY, Dass MS, Smalley MJ, Pearson HB. The PI3K-AKT-mTOR Pathway and Prostate Cancer: At the Crossroads of AR, MAPK, and WNT Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4507. [PMID: 32630372 PMCID: PMC7350257 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 287] [Impact Index Per Article: 71.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (PKB/AKT), and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is a frequent event in prostate cancer that facilitates tumor formation, disease progression and therapeutic resistance. Recent discoveries indicate that the complex crosstalk between the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway and multiple interacting cell signaling cascades can further promote prostate cancer progression and influence the sensitivity of prostate cancer cells to PI3K-AKT-mTOR-targeted therapies being explored in the clinic, as well as standard treatment approaches such as androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT). However, the full extent of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling network during prostate tumorigenesis, invasive progression and disease recurrence remains to be determined. In this review, we outline the emerging diversity of the genetic alterations that lead to activated PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling in prostate cancer, and discuss new mechanistic insights into the interplay between the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway and several key interacting oncogenic signaling cascades that can cooperate to facilitate prostate cancer growth and drug-resistance, specifically the androgen receptor (AR), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and WNT signaling cascades. Ultimately, deepening our understanding of the broader PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling network is crucial to aid patient stratification for PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway-directed therapies, and to discover new therapeutic approaches for prostate cancer that improve patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Helen B. Pearson
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK; (B.Y.S.); (M.S.D.); (M.J.S.)
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15
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Yu J, Song Y, Tian W. How to select IgG subclasses in developing anti-tumor therapeutic antibodies. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:45. [PMID: 32370812 PMCID: PMC7201658 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00876-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The intact antibody of human immunoglobulin (IgG) is composed of the fragment for antigen binding (Fab) and the crystallizable fragment (Fc) for binding of Fcγ receptors. Among the four subclasses of human IgG (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4), which differ in their constant regions, particularly in their hinges and CH2 domains, IgG1 has the highest FcγR-binding affinity, followed by IgG3, IgG2, and IgG4. As a result, different subclasses have different effector functions such as antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP). Fcγ receptors include six subtypes (FcγRI, FcγRIIA, FcγRIIB, FcγRIIC, FcγRIIIA, FcγRIIIB) which differ in cellular distribution, binding affinity to Fc, and the resulting biological activity. Therefore, when developing anti-tumor therapeutic antibodies, including single-targeted antibodies, bi-specific antibodies (BsAbs), and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), many factors, such as target biology, cellular distribution of the targets, the environments of particular tumor types, as well as the proposed mechanism of action (MOA), must be taken into consideration. This review outlines fundamental strategies that are required to select IgG subclasses in developing anti-tumor therapeutic antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jifeng Yu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China. .,Academy of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Yongping Song
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Wenzhi Tian
- ImmuneOnco Biopharmaceuticals (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China.
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16
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Li X, Zhang Y, Walana W, Zhao F, Li F, Luo F. GDC-0941 and CXCL8 (3-72) K11R/G31P combination therapy confers enhanced efficacy against breast cancer. Future Oncol 2020; 16:911-921. [PMID: 32285685 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Herein is presented the combined effect of PI3K inhibitor (GDC-0941) and CXCR1/2 analogue (G31P) in breast cancer. Materials & methods: Breast cancer cell lines and xenograft model were employed to test the efficacy of the combination therapy. Results: GDC-0941+G31P treatment substantially inhibited multiplication of all the breast cancer cell lines used in this study (BT474, HCC1954 and 4T1). Even though single therapies caused a meaningful S-phase cell cycle arrest, the inhibition effect was more potent with the combined treatment. Similarly, enhanced apoptosis accompanied GDC-0941+G31P treatment. Furthermore, the migration ability of the breast cancer cell lines were significantly curtailed by the combination therapy compared with the single treatments. Conclusion: The findings suggest that combination treatment involving PI3K inhibitor and CXCR1/2 analogue (G31P) could be a potent therapeutic option for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Li
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Cancer Center, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Yuanyue Zhang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Williams Walana
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, PR China.,Department of Clinical Microbiology, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Feng Zhao
- College of Basic Medical Science, Dalian Medical University, #9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Fuwen Luo
- Department of Acute Abdominal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, PR China
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17
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Oechsle CM, Showalter LE, Novak CM, Czerniecki BJ, Koski GK. Statin Drugs Plus Th1 Cytokines Potentiate Apoptosis and Ras Delocalization in Human Breast Cancer Lines and Combine with Dendritic Cell-Based Immunotherapy to Suppress Tumor Growth in a Mouse Model of HER-2 pos Disease. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8010072. [PMID: 32041347 PMCID: PMC7157728 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8010072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A dendritic cell-based, Type 1 Helper T cell (Th1)-polarizing anti-Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-2 (HER-2) vaccine supplied in the neoadjuvant setting eliminates disease in up to 30% of recipients with HER-2-positive (HER-2pos) ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). We hypothesized that drugs with low toxicity profiles that target signaling pathways critical for oncogenesis may work in conjunction with vaccine-induced immune effector mechanisms to improve efficacy while minimizing side effects. In this study, a panel of four phenotypically diverse human breast cancer lines were exposed in vitro to the combination of Th1 cytokines Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) and lipophilic statins. This combination was shown to potentiate multiple markers of apoptotic cell death. The combination of statin drugs and Th1 cytokines minimized membrane K-Ras localization while maximizing levels in the cytoplasm, suggesting a possible means by which cytokines and statin drugs might cooperate to maximize cell death. A combined therapy was also tested in vivo through an orthotopic murine model using the neu-transgenic TUBO mammary carcinoma line. We showed that the combination of HER-2 peptide-pulsed dendritic cell (DC)-based immunotherapy and simvastatin, but not single agents, significantly suppressed tumor growth. Consistent with a Th1 cytokine-dependent mechanism, parenterally administered recombinant IFN-γ could substitute for DC-based immunotherapy, likewise inhibiting tumor growth when combined with simvastatin. These studies show that statin drugs can amplify a DC-induced effector mechanism to improve anti-tumor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal M. Oechsle
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA; (C.M.O.); (C.M.N.)
- Ohio Attorney General’s Center for the Future of Forensic Science, Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA
| | - Loral E. Showalter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA;
| | - Colleen M. Novak
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA; (C.M.O.); (C.M.N.)
| | | | - Gary K. Koski
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA; (C.M.O.); (C.M.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-330-701-7775
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18
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Altine B, Gai Y, Han N, Jiang Y, Ji H, Fang H, Niyonkuru A, Bakari KH, Rajab Arnous MM, Liu Q, Zhang Y, Lan X. Preclinical Evaluation of a Fluorine-18 ( 18F)-Labeled Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Inhibitor for Breast Cancer Imaging. Mol Pharm 2019; 16:4563-4571. [PMID: 31553879 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.9b00690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the commonest malignancies in women, especially in middle-aged and elderly women. Abnormal activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKt/mTOR) pathway has been found to be involved in breast cancer proliferation. Pictilisib (GDC-0941) is a potent inhibitor of PI3K with high affinity and is undergoing phase 2 clinical trials. In this study, we aimed to develop a noninvasive PI3K radiotracer to help determine the mechanism of the PI3K/AKt/mTOR pathway to aid in diagnosis. We designed a new 18F-radiolabeled radiotracer based on the structure of pictilisib, to evaluate noninvasively abnormal activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. To increase the water solubility, and to decrease hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal uptake of the tracer, pictilisib was modified with triethylene glycol di(p-toluenesulfonate) (TsO-PEG3-OTs) to obtain TsO-PEG3-GDC-0941 as the precursor for 18F labeling. A nonradiolabeled reference compound [19F]-PEG3-GDC-0941 was also prepared. Breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, were used as high- and low-expression PI3K models, respectively. PET imaging and ex vivo biodistribution assays of [18F]-PEG3-GDC-0941 in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 xenografts were also performed, and the results were compared. The precursor compound and reference standard compound were successfully synthesized and identified using NMR and mass spectroscopy. The 18F radiolabeling was achieved with a high yield (61 ± 1%) at a high molar activity (2100 ± 100 MBq/mg). MicroPET images and biodistribution studies showed a higher uptake of the radiotracer in MCF-7 tumors than in MDA-MB-231 tumors (7.56 ± 1.01%ID/g vs 4.07 ± 0.68%ID/g, 1 h postinjection). Additionally, the MCF-7 tumor uptake was significantly decreased when a blocking dose of GDC-0941 was coinjected, indicating high specificity. The liver was found to be the major excretory organ with 5.82 ± 0.88%ID/g at 30 min postinjection for MCF-7 mice. This radiotracer holds great potential for patient screening, diagnosis, and therapy prediction of PI3K-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bouhari Altine
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Yongkang Gai
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Na Han
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Yaqun Jiang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Hao Ji
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Hanyi Fang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Alexandre Niyonkuru
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Khamis Hassan Bakari
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Maher Mohamad Rajab Arnous
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Qingyao Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Yongxue Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
| | - Xiaoli Lan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College , Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan 430022 , China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging , Wuhan 430022 , China
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19
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McKenna M, McGarrigle S, Pidgeon GP. The next generation of PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway inhibitors in breast cancer cohorts. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2018; 1870:185-197. [PMID: 30318472 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway plays a role in various oncogenic processes in breast cancer and key pathway aberrations have been identified which drive the different molecular subtypes. Early drugs developed targeting this pathway produced some clinical success but were hampered by pharmacokinetics, tolerability and efficacy problems. This created a need for new PI3K pathway-inhibiting drugs, which would produce more robust results allowing incorporation into treatment regimens for breast cancer patients. In this review, the most promising candidates from the new generation of PI3K-pathway inhibitors is explored, presenting evidence from preclinical and early clinical research, as well as ongoing trials utilising these drugs in breast cancer cohorts. The problems hindering the development of drugs targeting the PI3K pathway are examined, which have created problems for their use as monotherapies. PI3K pathway inhibitor combinations therefore remains a dynamic research area, and their role in combination with immunotherapies and epigenetic therapies is also inspected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael McKenna
- Department of Surgery, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St. James's Hospital, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sarah McGarrigle
- Department of Surgery, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St. James's Hospital, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Graham P Pidgeon
- Department of Surgery, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St. James's Hospital, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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20
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Phase I study of alpelisib (BYL-719) and trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) in HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC) after trastuzumab and taxane therapy. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2018; 171:371-381. [DOI: 10.1007/s10549-018-4792-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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21
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Ruiz-Saenz
- Ana Ruiz-Saenz, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; and Mark M. Moasser, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Mark M Moasser
- Ana Ruiz-Saenz, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; and Mark M. Moasser, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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22
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Breslin S, O'Driscoll L. The relevance of using 3D cell cultures, in addition to 2D monolayer cultures, when evaluating breast cancer drug sensitivity and resistance. Oncotarget 2018; 7:45745-45756. [PMID: 27304190 PMCID: PMC5216757 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid tumours naturally grow in 3D wherein the spatial arrangement of cells affects how they interact with each other. This suggests that 3D cell culture may mimic the natural in vivo setting better than traditional monolayer (2D) cell culture, where cells are grown attached to plastic. Here, using HER2-positive breast cancer cell lines as models (BT474, HCC1954, EFM192A), the effects of culturing cells in 3D using the poly-HEMA method compared to 2D cultures were assessed in terms of cellular viability, response/resistance to anti-cancer drugs, protein expression and enzyme activity. Scanning electron microscopy showed the morphology of cells in 3D to be substantially different to those cultured in 2D. Cell viability in 3D cells was substantially lower than that of cells in 2D cultures, while 3D cultures were more resistant to the effects of HER-targeted (neratinib) and classical chemotherapy (docetaxel) drugs. Expression of proteins involved in cell survival, transporters associated with drug resistance and drug targets were increased in 3D cultures. Finally, activity of drug metabolising enzyme CYP3A4 was substantially increased in 3D compared to 2D cultures. Together this data indicates that the biological information represented by 3D and 2D cell cultures is substantially different i.e. 3D cell cultures demonstrate higher innate resistance to anti-cancer drugs compared to 2D cultures, which may be facilitated by the altered receptor proteins, drug transporters and metabolising enzyme activity. This highlights the importance of considering 3D in addition to 2D culture methods in pre-clinical studies of both newer targeted and more traditional anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Breslin
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Lorraine O'Driscoll
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Lee JH, Son YH, Kwon YW, Park SY, Koo BS, Jung SH. Anticancer Effects of a Korean Herbal Medicine Formula (H9) via AMPK and HER2-PI3K/Akt Signaling in Breast Cancer Cells. Phytother Res 2017; 31:1765-1775. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Hee Lee
- College of Korean Medicine; Dongguk University; Gyeongju 38066 Korea
| | - Young Hoon Son
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine; Seoul National University; Seoul 03080 Korea
| | - Young-Won Kwon
- College of Korean Medicine; Dongguk University; Gyeongju 38066 Korea
| | - Sung Yun Park
- College of Korean Medicine; Dongguk University; Gyeongju 38066 Korea
| | - Byung-Soo Koo
- College of Korean Medicine; Dongguk University; Gyeongju 38066 Korea
| | - Seung Hyun Jung
- College of Korean Medicine; Dongguk University; Gyeongju 38066 Korea
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24
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Upstream and Downstream Co-inhibition of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase and PI3K/Akt/mTOR Pathways in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Neoplasia 2017; 18:425-35. [PMID: 27435925 PMCID: PMC5022074 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2016.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2016] [Revised: 05/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive cross talk exists between PI3K/Akt/mTOR and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, and both are upregulated in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Our previous study suggested that epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor erlotinib which acts upstream of these pathways acts synergistically with PI3K inhibitors in PDAC. Horizontal combined blockade upstream and downstream of these two pathways is therefore explored. METHODS Erlotinib paired with PI3K inhibitor (BYL719) was tested against erlotinib plus dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor BEZ-235, and MEK inhibitor (PD98059) plus BEZ235, on five primary PDAC cell lines and on two pairs of parent and erlotinib-resistant (ER) cell lines. A range of in vitro assays including cell proliferation, Western blotting, migration, clonogenic, cell cycle, and apopotic assays was used to test for the efficacy of combined blockade. RESULTS Dual downstream blockade of the MAPK and PAM pathways was more effective in attenuating downstream molecular signals. Synergy was demonstrated for erlotinib and BEZ235 and for PD-98059 and BEZ-235. This resulted in a trend of increased growth cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, cell proliferation, and colony and migration suppression. This combination showed more efficacy in cell lines with acquired resistance to erlotinib. CONCLUSIONS The additional mTOR blockade provided by BEZ235 in combined blockade resulted in increased anticancer effect. The hypersensitivity of ER cell lines to additional mTOR blockade suggested PAM pathway oncogenic dependence via mTOR. Dual downstream combined blockade of MAPK and PAM pathways with MEK and PI3K/mTOR inhibitor appeared most effective and represents an attractive therapeutic strategy against pancreatic cancer and its associated drug resistance.
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Yang J, Farren MR, Ahn D, Bekaii-Saab T, Lesinski GB. Signaling pathways as therapeutic targets in biliary tract cancer. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2017; 21:485-498. [PMID: 28282502 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2017.1306055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The incidence of biliary tract cancer (BTC) is increasing, and the disease is frequently diagnosed during advanced stages, leading to poor overall survival. Limited treatment options are currently available and novel therapeutic approaches are needed. A number of completed clinical trials have evaluated the role of chemotherapy for BTC, demonstrating a marginal benefit. Thus, there is increased interest in applying targeted therapies for this disease. Areas covered: This review article summarizes the role of chemotherapeutic regimens for the treatment of BTC, and highlights key signal transduction pathways of interest for targeted inhibition. Of particular interest are the MEK or MAP2K (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase), phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) and signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) pathways. We discuss the available data on several promising inhibitors of these pathways, both in the pre-clinical and clinical settings. Expert opinion: Future treatment strategies should address targeting of MEK, PI3K and STAT3 for BTC, with a focus on combined therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Yang
- a Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program , The Ohio State University , Columbus , OH , USA
| | - Matthew R Farren
- b Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology , The Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Daniel Ahn
- c Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine , Mayo Clinic , Phoenix , AZ , USA
| | - Tanios Bekaii-Saab
- c Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine , Mayo Clinic , Phoenix , AZ , USA
| | - Gregory B Lesinski
- b Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology , The Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University , Atlanta , GA , USA
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26
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Class I phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitors for cancer therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2017; 7:27-37. [PMID: 28119806 PMCID: PMC5237710 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2016.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway is frequently activated in human cancers. Class I PI3Ks are lipid kinases that phosphorylate phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) at the 3-OH of the inositol ring to generate phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3), which in turn activates Akt and the downstream effectors like mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) to play key roles in carcinogenesis. Therefore, PI3K has become an important anticancer drug target, and currently there is very high interest in the pharmaceutical development of PI3K inhibitors. Idelalisib has been approved in USA and Europe as the first-in-class PI3K inhibitor for cancer therapy. Dozens of other PI3K inhibitors including BKM120 and ZSTK474 are being evaluated in clinical trials. Multifaceted studies on these PI3K inhibitors are being performed, such as single and combinational efficacy, resistance, biomarkers, etc. This review provides an introduction to PI3K and summarizes key advances in the development of PI3K inhibitors.
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27
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Venturutti L, Russo RIC, Rivas MA, Mercogliano MF, Izzo F, Oakley RH, Pereyra MG, De Martino M, Proietti CJ, Yankilevich P, Roa JC, Guzmán P, Cortese E, Allemand DH, Huang TH, Charreau EH, Cidlowski JA, Schillaci R, Elizalde PV. MiR-16 mediates trastuzumab and lapatinib response in ErbB-2-positive breast and gastric cancer via its novel targets CCNJ and FUBP1. Oncogene 2016; 35:6189-6202. [PMID: 27157613 PMCID: PMC5832962 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2016.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2015] [Revised: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
ErbB-2 amplification/overexpression accounts for an aggressive breast cancer (BC) subtype (ErbB-2-positive). Enhanced ErbB-2 expression was also found in gastric cancer (GC) and has been correlated with poor clinical outcome. The ErbB-2-targeted therapies trastuzumab (TZ), a monoclonal antibody, and lapatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, have proved highly beneficial. However, resistance to such therapies remains a major clinical challenge. We here revealed a novel mechanism underlying the antiproliferative effects of both agents in ErbB-2-positive BC and GC. TZ and lapatinib ability to block extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 and phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/AKT in sensitive cells inhibits c-Myc activation, which results in upregulation of miR-16. Forced expression of miR-16 inhibited in vitro proliferation in BC and GC cells, both sensitive and resistant to TZ and lapatinib, as well as in a preclinical BC model resistant to these agents. This reveals miR-16 role as tumor suppressor in ErbB-2-positive BC and GC. Using genome-wide expression studies and miRNA target prediction algorithms, we identified cyclin J and far upstream element-binding protein 1 (FUBP1) as novel miR-16 targets, which mediate miR-16 antiproliferative effects. Supporting the clinical relevance of our results, we found that high levels of miR-16 and low or null FUBP1 expression correlate with TZ response in ErbB-2-positive primary BCs. These findings highlight a potential role of miR-16 and FUBP1 as biomarkers of sensitivity to TZ therapy. Furthermore, we revealed miR-16 as an innovative therapeutic agent for TZ- and lapatinib-resistant ErbB-2-positive BC and GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Venturutti
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - RI Cordo Russo
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - MA Rivas
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - MF Mercogliano
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - F Izzo
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - RH Oakley
- Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - MG Pereyra
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Hospital General de Agudos ‘Juan A Fernández’, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M De Martino
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - CJ Proietti
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - P Yankilevich
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires, CONICET—Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - JC Roa
- Departamento de Anatomía Patológica (BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Departamento de Anatomía Patológica, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDIS), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - P Guzmán
- Departamento de Anatomía Patológica (BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - E Cortese
- Servicio de Ginecología, Hospital Aeronáutico Central, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - DH Allemand
- Unidad de Patología Mamaria, Hospital General de Agudos ‘Juan A Fernández’, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - TH Huang
- Department of Molecular Medicine/Institute of Biotechnology, Cancer Therapy and Research Center, University of Texas, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - EH Charreau
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - JA Cidlowski
- Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - R Schillaci
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - PV Elizalde
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Amin DN, Ruiz-Saenz A, Gulizia N, Moasser MM. Chemical probing of HER2-amplified cancer cells identifies TORC2 as a particularly effective secondary target for combination with lapatinib. Oncotarget 2016; 6:41123-33. [PMID: 26516700 PMCID: PMC4747394 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical impact of HER2 inhibitors in the treatment of HER2-amplified breast cancers has been largely confined to chemotherapy combination regimens, since HER2 inhibitors appear to have very modest efficacies by themselves. This is due to the resilient nature of the functionally relevant HER2-HER3 tumor driver, bidirectionally linked with downstream PI3K/Akt pathway signaling, which can break through the inhibitory effects of most current HER2 or HER3 targeting therapies. A vertical combination approach targeting HER2 and a downstream pathway is a highly rational strategy for much more effective targeted therapy of this disease. However the importance of these downstream pathways in many human tissues and cells significant limits their usefulness as secondary targets by narrowing the therapeutic index of such combination therapies. The secondary target that can afford the highest potential for clinical translation is the one with the highest synergy against tumor cells in combination with HER2-inhibition, allowing the widest therapeutic index for clinical translation. We conducted a comparative analysis of such secondary targets in combination with the HER2 inhibitor lapatinib and find that the inhibition of mTor affords the highest degree of synergy. In further dissecting the individual roles of TORC1 and TORC2 complexes using pharmacologic and genetic tools, we find that it is specifically the inactivation of TORC2 that most synergistically enhances the efficacy of lapatinib. Although inhibitors that selectively target TORC2 are not currently available, these data make a compelling case for their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhara N Amin
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Ana Ruiz-Saenz
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Nathaniel Gulizia
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Mark M Moasser
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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Ross RL, McPherson HR, Kettlewell L, Shnyder SD, Hurst CD, Alder O, Knowles MA. PIK3CA dependence and sensitivity to therapeutic targeting in urothelial carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2016; 16:553. [PMID: 27465249 PMCID: PMC4964013 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-016-2570-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many urothelial carcinomas (UC) contain activating PIK3CA mutations. In telomerase-immortalized normal urothelial cells (TERT-NHUC), ectopic expression of mutant PIK3CA induces PI3K pathway activation, cell proliferation and cell migration. However, it is not clear whether advanced UC tumors are PIK3CA-dependent and whether PI3K pathway inhibition is a good therapeutic option in such cases. Methods We used retrovirus-mediated delivery of shRNA to knock down mutant PIK3CA in UC cell lines and assessed effects on pathway activation, cell proliferation, migration and tumorigenicity. The effect of the class I PI3K inhibitor GDC-0941 was assessed in a panel of UC cell lines with a range of known molecular alterations in the PI3K pathway. Results Specific knockdown of PIK3CA inhibited proliferation, migration, anchorage-independent growth and in vivo tumor growth of cells with PIK3CA mutations. Sensitivity to GDC-0941 was dependent on hotspot PIK3CA mutation status. Cells with rare PIK3CA mutations and co-occurring TSC1 or PTEN mutations were less sensitive. Furthermore, downstream PI3K pathway alterations in TSC1 or PTEN or co-occurring AKT1 and RAS gene mutations were associated with GDC-0941 resistance. Conclusions Mutant PIK3CA is a potent oncogenic driver in many UC cell lines and may represent a valuable therapeutic target in advanced bladder cancer. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12885-016-2570-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Ross
- Section of Experimental Oncology, Leeds Institute of Cancer and Pathology, St James's University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - H R McPherson
- Section of Experimental Oncology, Leeds Institute of Cancer and Pathology, St James's University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - L Kettlewell
- Section of Experimental Oncology, Leeds Institute of Cancer and Pathology, St James's University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - S D Shnyder
- Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, University of Bradford, Richmond Road, Bradford, BD7 1DP, UK
| | - C D Hurst
- Section of Experimental Oncology, Leeds Institute of Cancer and Pathology, St James's University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - O Alder
- Section of Experimental Oncology, Leeds Institute of Cancer and Pathology, St James's University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - M A Knowles
- Section of Experimental Oncology, Leeds Institute of Cancer and Pathology, St James's University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK.
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Wicki A, Mandalà M, Massi D, Taverna D, Tang H, Hemmings BA, Xue G. Acquired Resistance to Clinical Cancer Therapy: A Twist in Physiological Signaling. Physiol Rev 2016; 96:805-29. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00024.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Although modern therapeutic strategies have brought significant progress to cancer care in the last 30 years, drug resistance to targeted monotherapies has emerged as a major challenge. Aberrant regulation of multiple physiological signaling pathways indispensable for developmental and metabolic homeostasis, such as hyperactivation of pro-survival signaling axes, loss of suppressive regulations, and impaired functionalities of the immune system, have been extensively investigated aiming to understand the diversity of molecular mechanisms that underlie cancer development and progression. In this review, we intend to discuss the molecular mechanisms of how conventional physiological signal transduction confers to acquired drug resistance in cancer patients. We will particularly focus on protooncogenic receptor kinase inhibition-elicited tumor cell adaptation through two major core downstream signaling cascades, the PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways. These pathways are crucial for cell growth and differentiation and are frequently hyperactivated during tumorigenesis. In addition, we also emphasize the emerging roles of the deregulated host immune system that may actively promote cancer progression and attenuate immunosurveillance in cancer therapies. Understanding these mechanisms may help to develop more effective therapeutic strategies that are able to keep the tumor in check and even possibly turn cancer into a chronic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Wicki
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Oncology and Hematology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy; Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; and Department of Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for
| | - Mario Mandalà
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Oncology and Hematology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy; Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; and Department of Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for
| | - Daniela Massi
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Oncology and Hematology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy; Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; and Department of Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for
| | - Daniela Taverna
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Oncology and Hematology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy; Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; and Department of Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for
| | - Huifang Tang
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Oncology and Hematology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy; Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; and Department of Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for
| | - Brian A. Hemmings
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Oncology and Hematology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy; Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; and Department of Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for
| | - Gongda Xue
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Oncology and Hematology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy; Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; and Department of Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for
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Development and Characterization of a Humanized Anti-HER2 Antibody HuA21 with Potent Anti-Tumor Properties in Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:563. [PMID: 27092488 PMCID: PMC4849019 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17040563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is one of the most studied tumor-associated antigens for cancer immunotherapy. An engineered anti-HER-2 chimeric A21 antibody (chA21) is a chimeric antibody targeted to subdomain I of the HER2 extracellular domain. Here, we report the anti-tumor activity of the novel engineered monoclonal antibody humanized chA21 (HuA21) that targets HER2 on the basis of chA21, and we describe the underlying mechanisms. Our results reveal that HuA21 markedly inhibits the proliferation and migration of HER2-overexpressing breast cancer cells and causes enhanced antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity potency against HER2-overexpressing tumor cells. In particular, HuA21, but not trastuzumab (Tra), markedly suppresses growth and enhances the internalization of the antibody in Tra-resistant BT-474 breast cancer cells. These characteristics are highly associated with the intrinsic ability of HuA21 to down-regulate HER2 activation and inhibit the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathways. Furthermore, the combination of HuA21 with Tra synergistically enhances the anti-tumor effects in vitro and in vivo and inhibits HER2 activation and the ERK1/2 and Akt signaling pathways. Altogether, our results suggest that HuA21 may represent a unique anti-HER2 antibody with potential as a therapeutic candidate alone or in combination with other anti-HER2 reagents in cancer therapy.
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Kirouac DC, Du J, Lahdenranta J, Onsum MD, Nielsen UB, Schoeberl B, McDonagh CF. HER2+ Cancer Cell Dependence on PI3K vs. MAPK Signaling Axes Is Determined by Expression of EGFR, ERBB3 and CDKN1B. PLoS Comput Biol 2016; 12:e1004827. [PMID: 27035903 PMCID: PMC4818107 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1004827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the molecular pathways by which oncogenes drive cancerous cell growth, and how dependence on such pathways varies between tumors could be highly valuable for the design of anti-cancer treatment strategies. In this work we study how dependence upon the canonical PI3K and MAPK cascades varies across HER2+ cancers, and define biomarkers predictive of pathway dependencies. A panel of 18 HER2+ (ERBB2-amplified) cell lines representing a variety of indications was used to characterize the functional and molecular diversity within this oncogene-defined cancer. PI3K and MAPK-pathway dependencies were quantified by measuring in vitro cell growth responses to combinations of AKT (MK2206) and MEK (GSK1120212; trametinib) inhibitors, in the presence and absence of the ERBB3 ligand heregulin (NRG1). A combination of three protein measurements comprising the receptors EGFR, ERBB3 (HER3), and the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27 (CDKN1B) was found to accurately predict dependence on PI3K/AKT vs. MAPK/ERK signaling axes. Notably, this multivariate classifier outperformed the more intuitive and clinically employed metrics, such as expression of phospho-AKT and phospho-ERK, and PI3K pathway mutations (PIK3CA, PTEN, and PIK3R1). In both cell lines and primary patient samples, we observed consistent expression patterns of these biomarkers varies by cancer indication, such that ERBB3 and CDKN1B expression are relatively high in breast tumors while EGFR expression is relatively high in other indications. The predictability of the three protein biomarkers for differentiating PI3K/AKT vs. MAPK dependence in HER2+ cancers was confirmed using external datasets (Project Achilles and GDSC), again out-performing clinically used genetic markers. Measurement of this minimal set of three protein biomarkers could thus inform treatment, and predict mechanisms of drug resistance in HER2+ cancers. More generally, our results show a single oncogenic transformation can have differing effects on cell signaling and growth, contingent upon the molecular and cellular context. Biomarkers capable of accurately predicting patient responses to alternate therapies are critical to realizing the vision of precision medicine. Identifying such biomarkers is, however, challenging due to the inherent complexity of biological networks. Here we sought to identify molecular features that predict how a genetically defined subset of cancers (HER2+) differentially depend on two oncogenic signaling pathways, the PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK cascades. We find that combined measurement of three non-intuitive proteins (EGFR, ERBB3, and CDKN1B) accurately predicts cellular dependence on these signaling pathways, and responsiveness to drugs targeting their constituents. Notably, this three-biomarker model outperformed both biological intuition (phosho-AKT and phospho-ERK) and current clinical practice (PIK3CA mutations). More broadly, this exemplifies how the functional consequences of a single oncogenic driver (HER2) can depend upon molecular and cellular context. Expression of these markers also varies by indication, such that breast cancers are biased toward PI3K-dependnece, while non-breast indications (lung, ovarian, and gastric) are particularly MAPK-dependent, and thus may respond differently to therapeutic strategies developed for breast cancer. Together, we believe that our results will aid the design of novel, stratified treatment strategies for HER2+ disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Kirouac
- Discovery, Merrimack Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Jinyan Du
- Discovery, Merrimack Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Johanna Lahdenranta
- Discovery, Merrimack Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Matthew D Onsum
- Discovery, Merrimack Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Ulrik B Nielsen
- Discovery, Merrimack Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Birgit Schoeberl
- Discovery, Merrimack Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Charlotte F McDonagh
- Discovery, Merrimack Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Kawiak A, Lojkowska E. Ramentaceone, a Naphthoquinone Derived from Drosera sp., Induces Apoptosis by Suppressing PI3K/Akt Signaling in Breast Cancer Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147718. [PMID: 26840401 PMCID: PMC4739616 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway plays an important role in processes critical for breast cancer progression and its upregulation confers increased resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiation. The present study aimed at determining the activity of ramentaceone, a constituent of species in the plant genera Drosera, toward breast cancer cells and defining the involvement of PI3K/Akt inhibition in ramentaceone-mediated cell death induction. The results showed that ramentaceone exhibited high antiproliferative activity toward breast cancer cells, in particular HER2-overexpressing breast cancer cells. The mode of cell death induced by ramentaceone was through apoptosis as determined by cytometric analysis of caspase activity and Annexin V staining. Apoptosis induction was found to be mediated by inhibition of PI3K/Akt signaling and through targeting its downstream anti-apoptotic effectors. Ramentaceone inhibited PI3-kinase activity, reduced the expression of the PI3K protein and inhibited the phosphorylation of the Akt protein in breast cancer cells. The expression of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein was decreased and the levels of the pro-apoptotic proteins, Bax and Bak, were elevated. Moreover, inhibition of PI3K and silencing of Akt expression increased the sensitivity of cells to ramentaceone-induced apoptosis. In conclusion, our results indicate that ramentaceone induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells through PI3K/Akt signaling inhibition. These findings suggest further investigation of ramentaceone as a potential therapeutic agent in breast cancer therapy, in particular HER2-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kawiak
- Department of Biotechnology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Kladki 24, 80–822, Gdansk, Poland
- Laboratory of Human Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences with Subfaculty of Nursing, Medical University of Gdansk, Tuwima 15, 80–210, Gdansk, Poland
- * E-mail:
| | - Ewa Lojkowska
- Department of Biotechnology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Kladki 24, 80–822, Gdansk, Poland
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Young CD, Arteaga CL, Cook RS. Dual inhibition of Type I and Type III PI3 kinases increases tumor cell apoptosis in HER2+ breast cancers. Breast Cancer Res 2015; 17:148. [PMID: 26637440 PMCID: PMC4670529 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-015-0656-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) gene amplification (HER2+) drives tumor cell growth and survival in ~25 % of breast cancers. HER2 signaling activates the type I phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), upon which these tumors rely. Consequently, inhibitors of HER2 and type I PI3K block growth and increase apoptosis in HER2+ breast cancers, especially when used in combination. However, the impact of type III PI3K inhibition, particularly in combination with HER2 blockade or type I PI3K inhibition, remains less clear. Methods We utilized small molecule kinase inhibitors, locked nucleic acid antisense oligonucleotides (LNA-ASOs), and siRNA to assess proliferation, autophagy, apoptosis, and protein expression in cell culture models of HER2+ breast cancers. Results Treatment of HER2+ breast cancer cells with HER2 inhibitors or type I PI3K kinase inhibitors, alone or in combination, blocked type I PI3K signaling, reduced tumor cell growth, and induced autophagy. Knockdown of the type I PI3K, p110α, using an LNA-ASO termed EZN4150 inhibited PI3K-mediated Akt phosphorylation. However, in contrast to catalytic inhibitors of type I PI3Ks, EZN4150 did not induce autophagy, and blocked autophagy in response to inhibitors of HER2 or type I PI3Ks in a dominant fashion. Sequence analysis of EZN4150 revealed significant homology to the gene encoding the type III PI3K, Vps34, a key component for autophagy induction. EZN4150 simultaneously reduced expression of both p110α and Vps34. Combined inhibition of PI3K signaling and autophagy using individual siRNAs against p110α and Vps34 or using pharmacological type I and type III PI3K inhibitors recapitulated what was seen with EZN4150, and robustly enhanced tumor cell killing. Conclusions These studies highlight the important role of Vps34-mediated autophagy in limiting the anti-tumor response to inhibitors of HER2 or type I PI3K in HER2+ breast cancers. The type III PI3K Vps34 represents a potential therapeutic target to block treatment-induced autophagy and enhance tumor cell killing. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13058-015-0656-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian D Young
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| | - Carlos L Arteaga
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA. .,Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA. .,Department of Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| | - Rebecca S Cook
- Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA. .,Department of Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
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Kovacevic Z, Menezes SV, Sahni S, Kalinowski DS, Bae DH, Lane DJR, Richardson DR. The Metastasis Suppressor, N-MYC Downstream-regulated Gene-1 (NDRG1), Down-regulates the ErbB Family of Receptors to Inhibit Downstream Oncogenic Signaling Pathways. J Biol Chem 2015; 291:1029-52. [PMID: 26534963 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.689653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
N-MYC downstream-regulated gene-1 (NDRG1) is a potent growth and metastasis suppressor that acts through its inhibitory effects on a wide variety of cellular signaling pathways, including the TGF-β pathway, protein kinase B (AKT)/PI3K pathway, RAS, etc. To investigate the hypothesis that its multiple effects could be regulated by a common upstream effector, the role of NDRG1 on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and other members of the ErbB family, namely human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 3 (HER3), was examined. We demonstrate that NDRG1 markedly decreased the expression and activation of EGFR, HER2, and HER3 in response to the epidermal growth factor (EGF) ligand, while also inhibiting formation of the EGFR/HER2 and HER2/HER3 heterodimers. In addition, NDRG1 also decreased activation of the downstream MAPKK in response to EGF. Moreover, novel anti-tumor agents of the di-2-pyridylketone class of thiosemicarbazones, namely di-2-pyridylketone 4,4-dimethyl-3-thiosemicarbazone and di-2-pyridylketone 4-cyclohexyl-4-methyl-3-thiosemicarbazone, which markedly up-regulate NDRG1, were found to inhibit EGFR, HER2, and HER3 expression and phosphorylation in cancer cells. However, the mechanism involved appeared dependent on NDRG1 for di-2-pyridylketone 4,4-dimethyl-3-thiosemicarbazone, but was independent of this metastasis suppressor for di-2-pyridylketone 4-cyclohexyl-4-methyl-3-thiosemicarbazone. This observation demonstrates that small structural changes in thiosemicarbazones result in marked alterations in molecular targeting. Collectively, these results reveal a mechanism for the extensive downstream effects on cellular signaling attributed to NDRG1. Furthermore, this study identifies a novel approach for the treatment of tumors resistant to traditional EGFR inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaklina Kovacevic
- From the Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Sharleen V Menezes
- From the Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Sumit Sahni
- From the Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Danuta S Kalinowski
- From the Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Dong-Hun Bae
- From the Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Darius J R Lane
- From the Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Des R Richardson
- From the Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
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Wilks ST. Potential of overcoming resistance to HER2-targeted therapies through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Breast 2015; 24:548-55. [PMID: 26187798 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression occurs in up to 30% of breast cancers and is a marker of aggressive disease. While HER2-targeted therapies have improved outcomes in these tumors, resistance to these agents develops in a large proportion of patients. Determining molecular mechanisms underlying resistance might help improve outcomes for patients with HER2-positive disease by allowing development of strategies to overcome resistance. Activation of signaling pathways involving the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) pathway might contribute to the development of resistance to HER2-targeted therapies. Several inhibitors of this pathway are under investigation in this disease setting and phase 3 data for everolimus in combination with trastuzumab and chemotherapy in trastuzumab-refractory, advanced disease are promising. In this review, molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to HER2-targeted therapies are considered and evidence for strategies to manage resistance is evaluated, including the use of inhibitors of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon T Wilks
- Cancer Care Centers of South Texas, US Oncology, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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37
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Cordo Russo RI, Béguelin W, Díaz Flaqué MC, Proietti CJ, Venturutti L, Galigniana N, Tkach M, Guzmán P, Roa JC, O'Brien NA, Charreau EH, Schillaci R, Elizalde PV. Targeting ErbB-2 nuclear localization and function inhibits breast cancer growth and overcomes trastuzumab resistance. Oncogene 2015; 34:3413-28. [PMID: 25174405 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2014.272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 07/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Membrane overexpression of ErbB-2/HER2 receptor tyrosine kinase (membrane ErbB-2 (MErbB-2)) has a critical role in breast cancer (BC). We and others have also shown the role of nuclear ErbB-2 (NErbB-2) in BC, whose presence we identified as a poor prognostic factor in MErbB-2-positive tumors. Current anti-ErbB-2 therapies, as with the antibody trastuzumab (Ttzm), target only MErbB-2. Here, we found that blockade of NErbB-2 action abrogates growth of BC cells, sensitive and resistant to Ttzm, in a scenario in which ErbB-2, ErbB-3 and Akt are phosphorylated, and ErbB-2/ErbB-3 dimers are formed. Also, inhibition of NErbB-2 presence suppresses growth of a preclinical BC model resistant to Ttzm. We showed that at the cyclin D1 promoter, ErbB-2 assembles a transcriptional complex with Stat3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) and ErbB-3, another member of the ErbB family, which reveals the first nuclear function of ErbB-2/ErbB-3 dimer. We identified NErbB-2 as the major proliferation driver in Ttzm-resistant BC, and demonstrated that Ttzm inability to disrupt the Stat3/ErbB-2/ErbB-3 complex underlies its failure to inhibit growth. Furthermore, our results in the clinic revealed that nuclear interaction between ErbB-2 and Stat3 correlates with poor overall survival in primary breast tumors. Our findings challenge the paradigm of anti-ErbB-2 drug design and highlight NErbB-2 as a novel target to overcome Ttzm resistance.
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MESH Headings
- Active Transport, Cell Nucleus/drug effects
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use
- Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Cell Nucleus/drug effects
- Cell Nucleus/metabolism
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Cell Proliferation/genetics
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/drug effects
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics
- Drug Synergism
- Female
- Genes, Dominant/physiology
- Humans
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Nude
- Molecular Targeted Therapy/methods
- Mutant Proteins/pharmacology
- Mutant Proteins/therapeutic use
- Protein Isoforms/pharmacology
- Protein Isoforms/therapeutic use
- Protein Transport/drug effects
- Receptor, ErbB-2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, ErbB-2/genetics
- Receptor, ErbB-2/metabolism
- Receptor, ErbB-2/physiology
- Trastuzumab
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
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Affiliation(s)
- R I Cordo Russo
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - W Béguelin
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M C Díaz Flaqué
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C J Proietti
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - L Venturutti
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - N Galigniana
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M Tkach
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - P Guzmán
- Departamento de Anatomía Patológica (BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - J C Roa
- Departamento de Anatomía Patológica (BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - N A O'Brien
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - E H Charreau
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - R Schillaci
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - P V Elizalde
- Laboratory of Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Wuerkenbieke D, Wang J, Li Y, Ma C. miRNA-150 downregulation promotes pertuzumab resistance in ovarian cancer cells via AKT activation. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2015; 292:1109-16. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-015-3742-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Anticipating mechanisms of resistance to PI3K inhibition in breast cancer: a challenge in the era of precision medicine. Biochem Soc Trans 2015; 42:733-41. [PMID: 25109950 DOI: 10.1042/bst20140034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Frequent subversion of the PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase) pathway during neoplastic transformation contributes to several hallmarks of cancer that result in a competitive advantage for cancer cells. Deregulation of this pathway can be the result of genomic alterations such as PIK3CA mutation, PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10) loss or the activation of upstream protein tyrosine kinases. Not surprisingly, the PI3K signalling pathway has become an attractive therapeutic target, and numerous inhibitors are in clinical trials. Unfortunately, current therapies for advanced cancers that target PI3K often lead to the development of resistance and relapse of the disease. It is therefore important to establish the molecular mechanisms of resistance to PI3K-targeted therapy. With the focus on breast cancer, in the present article, we summarize the different ways of targeting PI3K, review potential mechanisms of resistance to PI3K inhibition and discuss the rationale of combination treatments to reach a balance between efficacy and toxicity.
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40
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Patil A, Sherbet G. Therapeutic approach to the management of HER2-positive breast cancer metastatic to the brain. Cancer Lett 2015; 358:93-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2014.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Revised: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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41
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Stern HM, Gardner H, Burzykowski T, Elatre W, O'Brien C, Lackner MR, Pestano GA, Santiago A, Villalobos I, Eiermann W, Pienkowski T, Martin M, Robert N, Crown J, Nuciforo P, Bee V, Mackey J, Slamon DJ, Press MF. PTEN Loss Is Associated with Worse Outcome in HER2-Amplified Breast Cancer Patients but Is Not Associated with Trastuzumab Resistance. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 21:2065-74. [PMID: 25649019 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-2993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the clinical relevance of PTEN in HER2-amplified and HER2-nonamplified disease. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We assessed PTEN status in two large adjuvant breast cancer trials (BCIRG-006 and BCIRG-005) using a PTEN immunohistochemical (IHC) assay that was previously validated in a panel of 33 breast cancer cell lines and prostate cancer tissues with known PTEN gene deletion. RESULTS In the HER2-positive patient population, absence of tumor cell PTEN staining occurred at a rate of 5.4% and was independent of ER/PR status. In contrast, 15.9% of HER2-negative patients exhibited absence of PTEN staining with the highest frequency seen in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subgroup versus ER/PR-positive patients (35.1% vs. 10.9%). Complete absence of PTEN staining in tumor cells was associated with poor clinical outcome in HER2-positive disease. Those patients whose cancers demonstrated absent PTEN staining had a significant decrease in disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) compared with patients with tumors exhibiting any PTEN staining patterns (low, moderate, or high). Trastuzumab appeared to provide clinical benefit even for patients lacking PTEN staining. In the HER2-negative population, there were no statistically significant differences in clinical outcome based on PTEN status. CONCLUSIONS This study is the largest to date examining PTEN status in breast cancer and the data suggest that the rate and significance of PTEN status differ between HER2-positive and HER2-negative disease. Furthermore, the data clearly suggest that HER2-positive patients with PTEN loss still benefit from trastuzumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard M Stern
- Genentech Research and Early Development, South San Francisco, California
| | | | | | - Wafaa Elatre
- USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Carol O'Brien
- Genentech Research and Early Development, South San Francisco, California
| | - Mark R Lackner
- Genentech Research and Early Development, South San Francisco, California
| | | | - Angela Santiago
- USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | | | | | | | | | - Nicholas Robert
- Virginia Cancer Specialists/U.S. Oncology Research Network, Fairfax, Virginia
| | - John Crown
- Irish Cooperative Oncology Research Group, St. Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Valerie Bee
- Cancer International Research Group/Translational Research in Oncology, Paris, France
| | - John Mackey
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Dennis J Slamon
- Department of Medicine, Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California.
| | - Michael F Press
- USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California.
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Sarker D, Ang JE, Baird R, Kristeleit R, Shah K, Moreno V, Clarke PA, Raynaud FI, Levy G, Ware JA, Mazina K, Lin R, Wu J, Fredrickson J, Spoerke JM, Lackner MR, Yan Y, Friedman LS, Kaye SB, Derynck MK, Workman P, de Bono JS. First-in-human phase I study of pictilisib (GDC-0941), a potent pan-class I phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, in patients with advanced solid tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 21:77-86. [PMID: 25370471 PMCID: PMC4287394 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-0947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This first-in-human dose-escalation trial evaluated the safety, tolerability, maximal-tolerated dose (MTD), dose-limiting toxicities (DLT), pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and preliminary clinical activity of pictilisib (GDC-0941), an oral, potent, and selective inhibitor of the class I phosphatidylinositol-3-kinases (PI3K). PATIENTS AND METHODS Sixty patients with solid tumors received pictilisib at 14 dose levels from 15 to 450 mg once-daily, initially on days 1 to 21 every 28 days and later, using continuous dosing for selected dose levels. Pharmacodynamic studies incorporated (18)F-FDG-PET, and assessment of phosphorylated AKT and S6 ribosomal protein in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and tumor tissue. RESULTS Pictilisib was well tolerated. The most common toxicities were grade 1-2 nausea, rash, and fatigue, whereas the DLT was grade 3 maculopapular rash (450 mg, 2 of 3 patients; 330 mg, 1 of 7 patients). The pharmacokinetic profile was dose-proportional and supported once-daily dosing. Levels of phosphorylated serine-473 AKT were suppressed >90% in PRP at 3 hours after dose at the MTD and in tumor at pictilisib doses associated with AUC >20 h·μmol/L. Significant increase in plasma insulin and glucose levels, and >25% decrease in (18)F-FDG uptake by PET in 7 of 32 evaluable patients confirmed target modulation. A patient with V600E BRAF-mutant melanoma and another with platinum-refractory epithelial ovarian cancer exhibiting PTEN loss and PIK3CA amplification demonstrated partial response by RECIST and GCIG-CA125 criteria, respectively. CONCLUSION Pictilisib was safely administered with a dose-proportional pharmacokinetic profile, on-target pharmacodynamic activity at dose levels ≥100 mg and signs of antitumor activity. The recommended phase II dose was continuous dosing at 330 mg once-daily.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debashis Sarker
- The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joo Ern Ang
- The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Baird
- The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Kristeleit
- The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Krunal Shah
- The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Victor Moreno
- The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul A. Clarke
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Florence I. Raynaud
- The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Gallia Levy
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph A Ware
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Kathryn Mazina
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Ray Lin
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Jenny Wu
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Jill Fredrickson
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Jill M Spoerke
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Mark R Lackner
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Yibing Yan
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Lori S. Friedman
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Stan B. Kaye
- The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mika K. Derynck
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Paul Workman
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Johann S. de Bono
- The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
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Shefet-Carasso L, Benhar I. Antibody-targeted drugs and drug resistance--challenges and solutions. Drug Resist Updat 2014; 18:36-46. [PMID: 25476546 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2014.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2014] [Revised: 11/16/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Antibody-based therapy of various human malignancies has shown efficacy in the past 30 years and is now one of the most successful and leading strategies for targeted treatment of patients harboring hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) aim to take advantage of the affinity and specificity of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to selectively deliver potent cytotoxic drugs to antigen-expressing tumor cells. Key parameters for ADC include choosing the optimal components of the ADC (the antibody, the linker and the cytotoxic drug) and selecting the suitable cell-surface target antigen. Building on the success of recent FDA approval of brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris) and ado-trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla), ADCs are currently a class of drugs with a robust pipeline with clinical applications that are rapidly expanding. The more ADCs are being evaluated in preclinical models and clinical trials, the clearer are becoming the parameters and the challenges required for their therapeutic success. This rapidly growing knowledge and clinical experience are revealing novel modalities and mechanisms of resistance to ADCs, hence offering plausible solutions to such challenges. Here, we review the key parameters for designing a powerful ADC, focusing on how ADCs are addressing the challenge of multiple drug resistance (MDR) and its rational overcoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- LeeRon Shefet-Carasso
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel
| | - Itai Benhar
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel.
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Cancer-driven dynamics of immune cells in a microfluidic environment. Sci Rep 2014; 4:6639. [PMID: 25322144 PMCID: PMC5377582 DOI: 10.1038/srep06639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Scope of the present work is to infer the migratory ability of leukocytes by stochastic processes in order to distinguish the spontaneous organization of immune cells against an insult (namely cancer). For this purpose, spleen cells from immunodeficient mice, selectively lacking the transcription factor IRF-8 (IRF-8 knockout; IRF-8 KO), or from immunocompetent animals (wild-type; WT), were allowed to interact, alternatively, with murine B16.F10 melanoma cells in an ad hoc microfluidic environment developed on a LabOnChip technology. In this setting, only WT spleen cells were able to establish physical interactions with melanoma cells. Conversely, IRF-8 KO immune cells exhibited poor dynamical reactivity towards the neoplastic cells. In the present study, we collected data on the motility of these two types of spleen cells and built a complete set of observables that recapitulate the biological complexity of the system in these experiments. With remarkable accuracy, we concluded that the IRF-8 KO cells performed pure uncorrelated random walks, while WT splenocytes were able to make singular drifted random walks that collapsed on a straight ballistic motion for the system as a whole, hence giving rise to a highly coordinate response. These results may provide a useful system to quantitatively analyse the real time cell-cell interactions and to foresee the behavior of immune cells with tumor cells at the tissue level.
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Abstract
Akt regulates critical cellular processes including cell survival and proliferation, glucose metabolism, cell migration, cancer progression and metastasis through phosphorylation of a variety of downstream targets. The Akt pathway is one of the most prevalently hyperactivated signaling pathways in human cancer, thus, research deciphering molecular mechanisms which underlie the aberrant Akt activation has received enormous attention. The PI3K-dependent Akt serine/threonine phosphorylation by PDK1 and mTORC2 has long been thought to be the primary mechanism accounting for Akt activation. However, this regulation alone does not sufficiently explain how Akt hyperactivation can occur in tumors with normal levels of PI3K/PTEN activity. Mounting evidence demonstrates that aberrant Akt activation can be attributed to other posttranslational modifications, which include tyrosine phosphorylation, O-GlcNAcylation, as well as lysine modifications: ubiquitination, SUMOylation and acetylation. Among them, K63-linked ubiquitination has been shown to be a critical step for Akt signal activation by facilitating its membrane recruitment. Deficiency of E3 ligases responsible for growth factor-induced Akt activation leads to tumor suppression. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of posttranslational modifications in Akt regulation will offer novel strategies for cancer therapy.
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Jeong WJ, Cha PH, Choi KY. Strategies to overcome resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody therapy in metastatic colorectal cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:9862-9871. [PMID: 25110417 PMCID: PMC4123368 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i29.9862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2013] [Revised: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Administration of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) such as cetuximab and panitumumab in combination with conventional chemotherapy substantially prolongs survival of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). However, the efficacy of these mAbs is limited due to genetic variation among patients, in particular K-ras mutations. The discovery of K-ras mutation as a predictor of non-responsiveness to EGFR mAb therapy has caused a major change in the treatment of mCRC. Drugs that inhibit transformation caused by oncogenic alterations of Ras and its downstream components such as BRAF, MEK and AKT seem to be promising cancer therapeutics as single agents or when given with EGFR inhibitors. Although multiple therapeutic strategies to overcome EGFR mAb-resistance are under investigation, our understanding of their mode of action is limited. Rational drug development based on stringent preclinical data, biomarker validation, and proper selection of patients is of paramount importance in the treatment of mCRC. In this review, we will discuss diverse approaches to overcome the problem of resistance to existing anti-EGFR therapies and potential future directions for cancer therapies related to the mutational status of genes associated with EGFR-Ras-ERK and PI3K signalings.
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Vu T, Sliwkowski MX, Claret FX. Personalized drug combinations to overcome trastuzumab resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2014; 1846:353-65. [PMID: 25065528 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Revised: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
HER2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer accounts for 18%-20% of all breast cancer cases and has the second poorest prognosis among breast cancer subtypes. Trastuzumab, the first Food and Drug Administration-approved targeted therapy for breast cancer, established the era of personalized treatment for HER2+ metastatic disease. It is well tolerated and improves overall survival and time-to-disease progression; with chemotherapy, it is part of the standard of care for patients with HER2+ metastatic disease. However, many patients do not benefit from it because of resistance. Substantial research has been performed to understand the mechanism of trastuzumab resistance and develop combination strategies to overcome the resistance. In this review, we provide insight into the current pipeline of drugs used in combination with trastuzumab and the degree to which these combinations have been evaluated, especially in patients who have experienced disease progression on trastuzumab. We conclude with a discussion of the current challenges and future therapeutic approaches to trastuzumab-based combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy Vu
- Department of Systems Biology, Unit 950, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA; Experimental Therapeutics Academic Program, The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, 6767 Bertner Ave., Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Francois X Claret
- Department of Systems Biology, Unit 950, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA; Experimental Therapeutics Academic Program, The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, 6767 Bertner Ave., Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark M Moasser
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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Wong MH, Xue A, Julovi SM, Pavlakis N, Samra JS, Hugh TJ, Gill AJ, Peters L, Baxter RC, Smith RC. Cotargeting of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and PI3K Overcomes PI3K–Akt Oncogenic Dependence in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2014; 20:4047-58. [PMID: 24895459 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-13-3377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Hosonaga M, Arima Y, Sugihara E, Kohno N, Saya H. Expression of CD24 is associated with HER2 expression and supports HER2-Akt signaling in HER2-positive breast cancer cells. Cancer Sci 2014; 105:779-87. [PMID: 24754246 PMCID: PMC4317915 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer is treated with HER2-targeted agents, such as trastuzumab and lapatinib, that suppress signaling by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt and MAPK pathways. However, resistance to HER2-targeted therapy remains a major clinical problem. Overexpression of CD24 has been detected in many cancers and is associated with a poor prognosis in women with breast cancer. HER2-positive breast tumors are predominantly positive for CD24, suggesting that the expression of the two molecules is related. To investigate the relation between HER2 and CD24, we overexpressed HER2 in breast cancer cells that were triple-negative for the estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and HER2. We found that expression of CD24 was increased by stable overexpression of HER2. Flow cytometry thus revealed that the percentage of CD24-positive cells was markedly higher in the HER2-positive fraction than in the HER2-negative fraction. Knockdown of CD24 in breast cancer cells positive for endogenous HER2 downregulated HER2 expression, whereas knockdown of HER2 did not affect the expression of CD24. Knockdown of CD24 also suppressed the phosphorylation of Akt, which functions downstream of HER2 and PI3K to promote cell survival. Moreover, knockdown of CD24 increased the sensitivity of HER2-positive breast cancer cells to lapatinib treatment. Our results thus indicate that CD24 supports both the expression of HER2 and the consequent activation of PI3K-Akt signaling. Furthermore, CD24 may contribute to resistance to HER2-targeted therapy and, therefore, is itself a potential therapeutic target in HER2-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Hosonaga
- Division of Gene Regulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Breast Oncology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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