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Chen G, Wang Y, Wang X. Insulin-related traits and prostate cancer: A Mendelian randomization study. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2337-2344. [PMID: 38867724 PMCID: PMC11167198 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Investigating the causal relationship between insulin secretion and prostate cancer (PCa) development is challenging due to the multifactorial nature of PCa, which complicates the isolation of the specific impact of insulin-related factors. We conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) study to investigate the associations between insulin secretion-related traits and PCa. We used 36, 60, 56, 23, 48, and 49 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as instrumental variables for fasting insulin, insulin sensitivity, proinsulin, and proinsulin in nondiabetic individuals, individuals with diabetes, and individuals receiving exogenous insulin, respectively. These SNPs were selected from various genome-wide association studies. To clarify the causal relationship between insulin-related traits and PCa, we utilized a multivariable MR analysis to adjust for obesity and body fat percentage. Additionally, two-step Mendelian randomization was conducted to assess the role of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in the relationship between proinsulin and PCa. Two-sample MR analysis revealed strong associations between genetically predicted fasting insulin, insulin sensitivity, proinsulin, and proinsulin in nondiabetic individuals and the development of PCa. After adjustment for obesity and body fat percentage using multivariable MR analysis, proinsulin remained significantly associated with PCa, whereas other factors were not. Furthermore, two-step MR analysis demonstrated that proinsulin acts as a negative factor in prostate carcinogenesis, largely independent of IGF-1. This study provides evidence suggesting that proinsulin may act as a negative factor contributing to the development of PCa. Novel therapies targeting proinsulin may have potential benefits for PCa patients, potentially reducing the need for unnecessary surgical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guihua Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
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Sutera P, Kim J, Kumar R, Deek RA, Stephenson R, Mayer T, Saraiya B, Ghodoussipour S, Jang T, Golombos D, Packiam V, Ennis R, Hathout L, Jabbour SK, Guler O, Onal C, Tran PT, Deek MP. PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway alterations in metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer. Prostate 2024. [PMID: 39021052 DOI: 10.1002/pros.24765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations in the PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway are commonly seen in metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC), however their role in outcomes is unknown. We aim to evaluate the prognostic significance as well as the genetic landscape of PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway alteration in mCSPC. METHODS Fourhundred and seventy-two patients with mCSPC were included who underwent next generation sequencing. PIK3/Akt/mTor pathway alterations were defined as mutations in Akt1, mTOR, PIK3CA, PIK3CB, PIK3R1, PTEN, TSC1, and TSC2. Endpoints of interests were radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS), time to development of castration resistant prostate cancer (tdCRPC), and overall survival (OS). Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed and Cox regression hazard ratios (HR) were calculated. RESULTS One hundred and fifty-two (31.9%) patients harbored a PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway alteration. Median rPFS and tdCRPC were 23.7 and 21.0 months in PIK3/Akt/mTOR altered compared to 32.8 (p = 0.08) and 32.1 months (p = 0.002) in wildtype tumors. On multivariable analysis PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway alterations were associated with tdCRPC (HR 1.43, 95% CI, 1.05-1.94, p = 0.02), but not rPFS [Hazard ratio (HR) 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.90-1.60, p = 0.21]. PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway alterations were more likely to be associated with concurrent mutations in TP53 (40% vs. 28%, p = 0.01) and TMPRSS2-ERG (37% vs. 26%, p = 0.02) than tumors without PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway alterations. Concurrent mutations were typically associated with shorter median times to rPFS and tdCRPC. DAVID analysis showed p53 signaling and angiogenesis pathways were enriched in PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway altered tumors while beta-catenin binding and altered BRCA pathway were enriched in PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway wildtype tumors. CONCLUSIONS PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway alterations were common in mCSPC and associated with poorer prognosis. The genetic landscape of PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway altered tumors differed from wildtype tumors. Additional studies are needed to better understand and target the PIK3/Akt/mTOR pathway in mCSPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Sutera
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jongmyung Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ritesh Kumar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Rebecca A Deek
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ryan Stephenson
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Division of Medical Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Tina Mayer
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Division of Medical Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Biren Saraiya
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Division of Medical Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Saum Ghodoussipour
- Department of Urology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Thomas Jang
- Department of Urology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - David Golombos
- Department of Urology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Vignesh Packiam
- Department of Urology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ronald Ennis
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lara Hathout
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Salma K Jabbour
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ozan Guler
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cem Onal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Phuoc T Tran
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Matthew P Deek
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Hofstad M, Woods A, Parra K, Sychev ZE, Mazzagatti A, Yu L, Gilbreath C, Ly P, Drake JM, Kittler R. Dual inhibition of ATR and DNA-PKcs radiosensitizes ATM-mutant prostate cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.10.602941. [PMID: 39026771 PMCID: PMC11257504 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.10.602941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
In advanced castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), mutations in the DNA damage response (DDR) gene ataxia telangiectasia mutated ( ATM ) are common. While poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors are approved in this context, their clinical efficacy remains limited. Thus, there is a compelling need to identify alternative therapeutic avenues for ATM mutant prostate cancer patients. Here, we generated matched ATM-proficient and ATM-deficient CRPC lines to elucidate the impact of ATM loss on DDR in response to DNA damage via irradiation. Through unbiased phosphoproteomic screening, we unveiled that ATM-deficient CRPC lines maintain dependence on downstream ATM targets through activation of ATR and DNA-PKcs kinases. Dual inhibition of ATR and DNA-PKcs effectively inhibited downstream γH2AX foci formation in response to irradiation and radiosensitized ATM-deficient lines to a greater extent than either ATM-proficient controls or single drug treatment. Further, dual inhibition abrogated residual downstream ATM pathway signaling and impaired replication fork dynamics. To circumvent potential toxicity, we leveraged the RUVBL1/2 ATPase inhibitor Compound B, which leads to the degradation of both ATR and DNA-PKcs kinases. Compound B effectively radiosensitized ATM-deficient CRPC in vitro and in vivo , and impacted replication fork dynamics. Overall, dual targeting of both ATR and DNA-PKcs is necessary to block DDR in ATM-deficient CRPC, and Compound B could be utilized as a novel therapy in combination with irradiation in these patients.
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Li J, Wang X, Xue L, He Q. Exploring the therapeutic mechanism of curcumin in prostate cancer using network pharmacology and molecular docking. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33103. [PMID: 39022084 PMCID: PMC11253540 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33103] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Curcumin, a phenolic compound extracted from turmeric rhizomes, exhibits antitumour effects in preclinical models of tumours. However, its mechanism of action in prostate cancer remains unclear. Exploring the molecular mechanisms of curcumin in prostate cancer based on network pharmacology and molecular docking provides a new theoretical basis for prostate cancer treatment. Method Using tools such as PharmMapper, SuperPred, TargetNet, and SwissTargetPrediction, we obtained information on curcumin-related targets. We comprehensively collected prostate cancer-related targets from several databases, including GeneCards, CTD, DisGeNET, OMIM, and PharmGKB. Cross-cutting drug-disease targets were then derived by screening using the Venny 2.1.0 tool. Subsequently, we used the DAVID platform to perform in-depth GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of the drug-disease-shared targets. To construct a PPI network map of the cross-targets and screen the 10 core targets, we combined the STRING database and Cytoscape 3.7.2. Molecular docking experiments were performed using AutoDockTools 1.5.7 software. Finally, we used several databases such as GEPIA, HPA, cBioPortal, and TIMER to further analyse the screened core targets in detail. Result We identified 307 key targets of curcumin in cancer treatment. After GO functional enrichment analysis, we obtained 1119 relevant entries, including 782 biological progression (BP) entries, 112 cellular component (CC) entries, and 225 molecular function (MF) entries. In addition, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed 126 signalling pathways, which were mainly involved in the cancer pathway, such as lipid and atherosclerosis pathway, PI3K-Akt signal pathway, MAPK signal pathway, Ras signal pathways, and chemical carcinogenesis-reactive oxygen species. By applying Cytoscape 3.7.2 software, we identified SRC, PIK3R1, STAT3, AKT1, HSP90AA1, ESR1, EGFR, HSP90AB1, MAPK8, and MAPK1 as core targets. Molecular docking experiments showed that the binding energies of curcumin to these core targets were all below -1.85 kJ mol-1, which fully demonstrated that curcumin could spontaneously bind to these core targets. Finally, these results were validated at multiple levels, including mRNA expression, protein expression, and immune infiltration. Conclusion Through in-depth network pharmacology and molecular docking studies, we have found that curcumin may have anticancer potential by upregulating the expression of PIK3R1 and STAT3, and downregulating the binding ability of molecules such as SRC, AKT1, HSP90AA1, ESR1, EGFR, HSP90AB1, MAPK8, and MAPK1. In addition, curcumin may interfere with the cyclic process of prostate cancer cells by inhibiting key signalling pathways such as the PI3K-Akt signalling pathway, MAPK signalling pathway, and Ras, thereby inhibiting their growth. This study not only reveals the potential molecular mechanism of curcumin in the treatment of prostate cancer but also provides an important theoretical basis for subsequent research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- Department of Urology, Ankang Central Hospital, Ankang, 725000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xiong Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Ankang Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Ankang, 725000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Li Xue
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Qingmin He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ankang Central Hospital, Ankang, 725000, Shaanxi Province, China
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Zhao J, Jin D, Huang M, Ji J, Xu X, Wang F, Zhou L, Bao B, Jiang F, Xu W, Lu X, Xiao M. Glycolysis in the tumor microenvironment: a driver of cancer progression and a promising therapeutic target. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1416472. [PMID: 38933335 PMCID: PMC11199735 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1416472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Even with sufficient oxygen, tumor cells use glycolysis to obtain the energy and macromolecules they require to multiply, once thought to be a characteristic of tumor cells known as the "Warburg effect". In fact, throughout the process of carcinogenesis, immune cells and stromal cells, two major cellular constituents of the tumor microenvironment (TME), also undergo thorough metabolic reprogramming, which is typified by increased glycolysis. In this review, we provide a full-scale review of the glycolytic remodeling of several types of TME cells and show how these TME cells behave in the acidic milieu created by glucose shortage and lactate accumulation as a result of increased tumor glycolysis. Notably, we provide an overview of putative targets and inhibitors of glycolysis along with the viability of using glycolysis inhibitors in combination with immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Understanding the glycolytic situations in diverse cells within the tumor immunological milieu will aid in the creation of subsequent treatment plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junpeng Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dandan Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mengxiang Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuebing Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital and Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lirong Zhou
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Baijun Bao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weisong Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Nantong Rehabilitation Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaomin Lu
- Department of Oncology Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingbing Xiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital and Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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Lei C, Li Y, Yang H, Zhang K, Lu W, Wang N, Xuan L. Unraveling breast cancer prognosis: a novel model based on coagulation-related genes. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1394585. [PMID: 38751445 PMCID: PMC11094261 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1394585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Breast cancer is highly heterogeneous, presenting challenges in prognostic assessment. Developing a universally applicable prognostic model could simplify clinical decision-making. This study aims to develop and validate a novel breast cancer prognosis model using coagulation-related genes with broad clinical applicability. Methods A total of 203 genes related to coagulation were obtained from the KEGG database, and the mRNA data of 1,099 tumor tissue samples and 572 samples of normal tissue were retrieved from the TCGA-BRCA cohort and GTEx databases. The R package "limma" was utilized to detect variations in gene expression related to coagulation between the malignancies and normal tissue. A model was constructed in the TCGA cohort through a multivariable Cox regression analysis, followed by validation using the GSE42568 dataset as the testing set. Constructing a nomogram incorporating clinical factors to enhance the predictive capacity of the model. Utilizing the ESTIMATE algorithm to investigate the immune infiltration levels in groups with deferent risk. Performing drug sensitivity analysis using the "oncoPredict" package. Results A risk model consisting of six coagulation-associated genes (SERPINA1, SERPINF2, C1S, CFB, RASGRP1, and TLN2) was created and successfully tested for validation. Identified were 6 genes that serve as protective factors in the model's development. Kaplan-Meier curves revealed a worse prognosis in the high-risk group compared to the low-risk group. The ROC analysis showed that the model accurately forecasted the overall survival (OS) of breast cancer patients at 1, 3, and 5 years. Nomogram accompanied by calibration curves can also provide better guidance for clinical decision-making. The low-risk group is more likely to respond well to immunotherapy, whereas the high-risk group may show improved responses to Gemcitabine treatment. Furthermore, individuals in distinct risk categories displayed different responses to various medications within the identical therapeutic category. Conclusion We established a breast cancer prognostic model incorporating six coagulation-associated genes and explored its clinical utility. This model offers valuable insights for clinical decision-making and drug selection in breast cancer patients, contributing to personalized and precise treatment advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuqi Lei
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hosipital, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hosipital, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Huaiyu Yang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hosipital, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hosipital, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hosipital, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Nianchang Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hosipital, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lixue Xuan
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hosipital, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Zhang D, Weng H, Zhu Z, Gong W, Ma Y. Evaluating first-line therapeutic strategies for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: a comprehensive network meta-analysis and systematic review. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1378993. [PMID: 38686197 PMCID: PMC11056588 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1378993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to evaluate the relative efficacy and safety of first-line treatment options for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Methods We systematically searched electronic databases, including PubMed and Web of Science, for studies published from their inception to April 3rd, 2023. Inclusion criteria were: 1) Completed Phase III or IV randomized controlled trials (RCTs) registered on ClinicalTrials.gov; 2) Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of mCRPC who had not previously received chemotherapy or novel endocrine therapies. We conducted a network meta-analysis using R software (version 3.4.0). Network graphs and risk of bias graphs were generated using Stata 14.0 and RevMan 5.4, respectively. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS), and the secondary outcome was the incidence of severe adverse events (SAEs). Results Seven RCTs encompassing 6,641 patients were included. The network meta-analysis revealed that both docetaxel+prednisone (DP) and cabazitaxel+prednisone (CP) significantly improved OS compared to abiraterone. Compared to placebo, DP showed comparable results to both cabazitaxel 20 mg/m^2+prednisone (C20P) and cabazitaxel 25 mg/m^2+prednisone (C25P) in terms of OS. For SAEs, both DP and C20P were superior to C25P, with no statistical difference between C20P and DP. The probability ranking plots indicated that C25P ranked highest for OS, while DP ranked highest for SAEs. Conclusions Based on our network meta-analysis, we recommend cabazitaxel 20 mg/m^2+prednisone (C20P) as the primary choice for first-line management of mCRPC, followed by DP. Enzalutamide and abiraterone are suggested as subsequent options. Radium-223 may be considered for patients presenting with bone metastases. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023443943.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duojie Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haimin Weng
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhangji Zhu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weilun Gong
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yinfeng Ma
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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8
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Turnham DJ, Mullen MS, Bullock NP, Gilroy KL, Richards AE, Patel R, Quintela M, Meniel VS, Seaton G, Kynaston H, Clarkson RWE, Phesse TJ, Nelson PS, Haffner MC, Staffurth JN, Pearson HB. Development and Characterisation of a New Patient-Derived Xenograft Model of AR-Negative Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. Cells 2024; 13:673. [PMID: 38667288 PMCID: PMC11049137 DOI: 10.3390/cells13080673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
As the treatment landscape for prostate cancer gradually evolves, the frequency of treatment-induced neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) and double-negative prostate cancer (DNPC) that is deficient for androgen receptor (AR) and neuroendocrine (NE) markers has increased. These prostate cancer subtypes are typically refractory to AR-directed therapies and exhibit poor clinical outcomes. Only a small range of NEPC/DNPC models exist, limiting our molecular understanding of this disease and hindering our ability to perform preclinical trials exploring novel therapies to treat NEPC/DNPC that are urgently needed in the clinic. Here, we report the development of the CU-PC01 PDX model that represents AR-negative mCRPC with PTEN/RB/PSMA loss and CTNN1B/TP53/BRCA2 genetic variants. The CU-PC01 model lacks classic NE markers, with only focal and/or weak expression of chromogranin A, INSM1 and CD56. Collectively, these findings are most consistent with a DNPC phenotype. Ex vivo and in vivo preclinical studies revealed that CU-PC01 PDX tumours are resistant to mCRPC standard-of-care treatments enzalutamide and docetaxel, mirroring the donor patient's treatment response. Furthermore, short-term CU-PC01 tumour explant cultures indicate this model is initially sensitive to PARP inhibition with olaparib. Thus, the CU-PC01 PDX model provides a valuable opportunity to study AR-negative mCRPC biology and to discover new treatment avenues for this hard-to-treat disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Turnham
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Manisha S. Mullen
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Nicholas P. Bullock
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | | | - Anna E. Richards
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Radhika Patel
- Division of Human Biology and Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Marcos Quintela
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Valerie S. Meniel
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Gillian Seaton
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Howard Kynaston
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
- Department of Urology, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff CF14 4XW, UK
| | - Richard W. E. Clarkson
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Toby J. Phesse
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
- The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Peter S. Nelson
- Division of Human Biology and Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Michael C. Haffner
- Division of Human Biology and Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - John N. Staffurth
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Helen B. Pearson
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
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Moreno CS, Winham CL, Alemozaffar M, Klein ER, Lawal IO, Abiodun-Ojo OA, Patil D, Barwick BG, Huang Y, Schuster DM, Sanda MG, Osunkoya AO. Integrated Genomic Analysis of Primary Prostate Tumor Foci and Corresponding Lymph Node Metastases Identifies Mutations and Pathways Associated with Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5671. [PMID: 38067373 PMCID: PMC10705102 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15235671] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease and mortality is mainly due to metastases but the initial steps of metastasis have not been well characterized. We have performed integrative whole exome sequencing and transcriptome analysis of primary prostate tumor foci and corresponding lymph node metastases (LNM) from 43 patients enrolled in clinical trial. We present evidence that, while there are some cases of clonally independent primary tumor foci, 87% of primary tumor foci and metastases are descended from a common ancestor. We demonstrate that genes related to oxidative phosphorylation are upregulated in LNM and in African-American patients relative to White patients. We further show that mutations in TP53, FLT4, EYA1, NCOR2, CSMD3, and PCDH15 are enriched in prostate cancer metastases. These findings were validated in a meta-analysis of 3929 primary tumors and 2721 metastases and reveal a pattern of molecular alterations underlying the pathology of metastatic prostate cancer. We show that LNM contain multiple subclones that are already present in primary tumor foci. We observed enrichment of mutations in several genes including understudied genes such as EYA1, CSMD3, FLT4, NCOR2, and PCDH15 and found that mutations in EYA1 and CSMD3 are associated with a poor outcome in prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos S. Moreno
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (C.L.W.); (A.O.O.)
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Cynthia L. Winham
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (C.L.W.); (A.O.O.)
| | - Mehrdad Alemozaffar
- Department of Urology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA (D.P.); (M.G.S.)
| | - Emma R. Klein
- Emory College of Arts and Sciences, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ismaheel O. Lawal
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA (O.A.A.-O.); (D.M.S.)
| | - Olayinka A. Abiodun-Ojo
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA (O.A.A.-O.); (D.M.S.)
| | - Dattatraya Patil
- Department of Urology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA (D.P.); (M.G.S.)
| | - Benjamin G. Barwick
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Yijian Huang
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
| | - David M. Schuster
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA (O.A.A.-O.); (D.M.S.)
| | - Martin G. Sanda
- Department of Urology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA (D.P.); (M.G.S.)
| | - Adeboye O. Osunkoya
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (C.L.W.); (A.O.O.)
- Department of Urology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA (D.P.); (M.G.S.)
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10
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Huang SKH, Bueno PRP, Garcia PJB, Lee MJ, De Castro-Cruz KA, Leron RB, Tsai PW. Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Antiproliferative Effects of Osmanthus fragrans (Thunb.) Lour. Flower Extracts. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3168. [PMID: 37687413 PMCID: PMC10489841 DOI: 10.3390/plants12173168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Osmanthus fragrans (Thunb.) Lour. flowers (OF-F) have been traditionally consumed as a functional food and utilized as folk medicine. This study evaluated the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects of OF-F extracts on prostate cancer cells (DU-145) and determined possible protein-ligand interactions of its compounds in silico. The crude OF-F extracts-water (W) and ethanol (E) were tested for phytochemical screening, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer. Network and molecular docking analyses of chemical markers were executed to establish their application for anticancer drug development. OF-F-E possessed higher total polyphenols (233.360 ± 3.613 g/kg) and tannin (93.350 ± 1.003 g/kg) contents than OF-F-W. In addition, OF-F-E extract demonstrated effective DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 = 0.173 ± 0.004 kg/L) and contained a high FRAP value (830.620 ± 6.843 g Trolox/kg). In cell culture experiments, OF-F-E significantly reduced NO levels and inhibited cell proliferation of RAW-264.7 and DU-145 cell lines, respectively. Network analysis revealed O. fragrans (Thunb.) Lour. metabolites could affect thirteen molecular functions and thirteen biological processes in four cellular components. These metabolites inhibited key proteins of DU-145 prostate cancer using molecular docking with rutin owning the highest binding affinity with PIKR31 and AR. Hence, this study offered a new rationale for O. fragrans (Thunb.) Lour. metabolites as a medicinal herb for anticancer drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Kuan-Hua Huang
- Department of Medical Science Industries, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 711, Taiwan; (S.K.-H.H.); (M.-J.L.)
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan 711, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Paolo Robert P. Bueno
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Metro Manila 1000, Philippines;
- School of Medicine, The Manila Times College of Subic, Zambales 2222, Philippines
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Adamson University, Metro Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Patrick Jay B. Garcia
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Metro Manila 1002, Philippines; (P.J.B.G.); (K.A.D.C.-C.); (R.B.L.)
- School of Graduate Studies, Mapúa University, Metro Manila 1002, Philippines
| | - Mon-Juan Lee
- Department of Medical Science Industries, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 711, Taiwan; (S.K.-H.H.); (M.-J.L.)
| | - Kathlia A. De Castro-Cruz
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Metro Manila 1002, Philippines; (P.J.B.G.); (K.A.D.C.-C.); (R.B.L.)
| | - Rhoda B. Leron
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Metro Manila 1002, Philippines; (P.J.B.G.); (K.A.D.C.-C.); (R.B.L.)
| | - Po-Wei Tsai
- Department of Medical Science Industries, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 711, Taiwan; (S.K.-H.H.); (M.-J.L.)
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11
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Garcia PJB, Huang SKH, De Castro-Cruz KA, Leron RB, Tsai PW. An In Vitro Evaluation and Network Pharmacology Analysis of Prospective Anti-Prostate Cancer Activity from Perilla frutescens. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3006. [PMID: 37631218 PMCID: PMC10457999 DOI: 10.3390/plants12163006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. is extensively cultivated in East Asia as a dietary vegetable, and nutraceuticals are reportedly rich in bioactive compounds, especially with anticancer activities. This study explored the in vitro cytotoxic effects of P. frutescens parts' (stems, leaves, and seeds) extracts on prostate cancer cells (DU-145) and possible interactions of putative metabolites to related prostate cancer targets in silico. The ethanol extract of P. frutescens leaves was the most cytotoxic for the prostate cancer cells. From high-performance liquid chromatography analysis, rosmarinic acid was identified as the major metabolite in the leaf extracts. Network analysis revealed interactions from multiple affected targets and pathways of the metabolites. From gene ontology enrichment analysis, P. frutescens leaf metabolites could significantly affect 14 molecular functions and 12 biological processes in five cellular components. Four (4) KEGG pathways, including for prostate cancer, and six (6) Reactome pathways were shown to be significantly affected. The molecular simulation confirmed the interactions of relevant protein targets with key metabolites, including rosmarinic acid. This study could potentially lead to further exploration of P. frutescens leaves or their metabolites for prostate cancer treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Jay B. Garcia
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Intramuros, Manila 1002, Philippines; (P.J.B.G.); (K.A.D.C.-C.); (R.B.L.)
- School of Graduate Studies, Mapúa University, Intramuros, Manila 1002, Philippines
| | - Steven Kuan-Hua Huang
- Department of Medical Science Industries, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 711, Taiwan;
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan 711, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Kathlia A. De Castro-Cruz
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Intramuros, Manila 1002, Philippines; (P.J.B.G.); (K.A.D.C.-C.); (R.B.L.)
| | - Rhoda B. Leron
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Intramuros, Manila 1002, Philippines; (P.J.B.G.); (K.A.D.C.-C.); (R.B.L.)
| | - Po-Wei Tsai
- Department of Medical Science Industries, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 711, Taiwan;
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12
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Wei Y, Jiao Z, Sun T, Lai Z, Wang X. Molecular Mechanisms Behind Vascular Mimicry as the Target for Improved Breast Cancer Management. Int J Womens Health 2023; 15:1027-1038. [PMID: 37465721 PMCID: PMC10350405 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s406327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Breast cancer has a high incidence and mortality rate in women due to metastasis and drug resistance which is associated with vasculogenic mimicry (VM). We purposed to explore VM formulation in breast cancer and mechanism of which is involved in EphA2/PIK3R1/CTNNB1 in the present study. Methods The expression of EphA2/PIK3R1/CTNNB1 and breast cancer patient prognosis was analyzed from TCGA data, both gene and protein expression as well as VM were measured in human breast cancer tissue samples collected in our study. The relationship between EphA2/PIK3R1/CTNNB1 and the formation of VM in breast cancer and its possible regulatory mechanism was explored. Results The results of the bioinformatics analysis based on TCGA showed that the expression of PIK3R1/ CTNNB1/ PECAM1 (CD31) in tumor tissues was significantly lower than that in normal tissues. EphA2 was positively correlated with PIK3R1, PIK3R1 with CTNNB1, and CTNNB1 with PECAM1 expression in breast cancer tissues. The results of detection in breast cancer and adjacent tissues indicated that the expression of EphA2/PIK3R1/CTNNB1 in cancer tissues was significantly lower than that in adjacent tissues. The expression of PIK3R1 was positively correlated with EphA2 and CTNNB1 expression, respectively, as well as EphA2 expression correlated with CTNNB1 expression positively. VM formation was significantly increased in breast cancer tissues compared with adjacent tissues. Conclusion Our results suggested that the formation of VM in breast cancer may be related to the EphA2/PIK3R1/CTNNB1 molecular signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Wei
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zheng Jiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Youanmen Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tianpei Sun
- Clinical School of Medicine, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiwei Lai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Fujian Campus, Jinjiang, Fujian Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaochun Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province, People’s Republic of China
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13
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Alfahed A, Ebili HO, Waggiallah HA. Chromosome-specific segment size alterations are determinants of prognosis in prostate cancer. Saudi J Biol Sci 2023; 30:103629. [PMID: 37091119 PMCID: PMC10119956 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2023.103629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, risk stratification is the most difficult problem in prostate cancer (PCa) management. Gleason grading cannot adequately predict cancer progression. This study aimed to identify chromosome-specific segment size alterations that could aid risk stratification and predict metastasis using a retrospective cohort-study strategy. A binary logistic regression model was generated using 16 chromosome-specific segments with size alterations (deletions and amplifications) that showed associations with disease stage (primary versus metastatic). The regression model was trained with the MSKCC PIK3R1 PCa cohort (n = 1417), and validated with the TCGA Firehose Legacy (n = 500), MSKCC Prostate Oncogenome Project (n = 218), and the SU2C/PCF Dream Team (n = 150) PCa cohorts. Furthermore, the capacity of the model to predict metastasis between primary tumours with metastasis (n = 54) and primary tumours without metastasis (n = 54) was tested. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the model at disease stage stratification ranged from 69.02% to 88.55%, 72.8% to 86.00% and 66.30% to 89.50%, respectively. The model also showed good performance at metastasis prediction with accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 57.41%, 62.96% and 51.85%, respectively. The study conclusion was that chromosome-specific segment size alterations can aid risk stratification and metastasis prediction. The significance of the study findings is that in combinations with clinical, biochemical, and histopathological variables, chromosome-specific alterations could improve current risk stratification and prediction models for PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz Alfahed
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudia Arabia
- Corresponding author.
| | - Henry Okuchukwu Ebili
- Morbid Anatomy and Histopathology Department, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Nigeria
| | - Hisham Ali Waggiallah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudia Arabia
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14
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Raith F, O’Donovan DH, Lemos C, Politz O, Haendler B. Addressing the Reciprocal Crosstalk between the AR and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathways for Prostate Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032289. [PMID: 36768610 PMCID: PMC9917236 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The reduction in androgen synthesis and the blockade of the androgen receptor (AR) function by chemical castration and AR signaling inhibitors represent the main treatment lines for the initial stages of prostate cancer. Unfortunately, resistance mechanisms ultimately develop due to alterations in the AR pathway, such as gene amplification or mutations, and also the emergence of alternative pathways that render the tumor less or, more rarely, completely independent of androgen activation. An essential oncogenic axis activated in prostate cancer is the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, as evidenced by the frequent alterations of the negative regulator phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and by the activating mutations in PI3K subunits. Additionally, crosstalk and reciprocal feedback loops between androgen signaling and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascade that activate pro-survival signals and play an essential role in disease recurrence and progression have been evidenced. Inhibitors addressing different players of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway have been evaluated in the clinic. Only a limited benefit has been reported in prostate cancer up to now due to the associated side effects, so novel combination approaches and biomarkers predictive of patient response are urgently needed. Here, we reviewed recent data on the crosstalk between AR signaling and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, the selective inhibitors identified, and the most advanced clinical studies, with a focus on combination treatments. A deeper understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms involved in disease progression and treatment resistance is essential to further guide therapeutic approaches with improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Raith
- Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Bayer AG, Müllerstr. 178, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel H. O’Donovan
- Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Bayer AG, Müllerstr. 178, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Clara Lemos
- Bayer Research and Innovation Center, Bayer US LLC, 238 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Oliver Politz
- Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Bayer AG, Müllerstr. 178, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernard Haendler
- Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Bayer AG, Müllerstr. 178, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-30-2215-41198
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