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Tanim K, Holtzhausen A, Thapa A, Huelse JM, Graham DK, Earp HS. MERTK Inhibition as a Targeted Novel Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7660. [PMID: 39062902 PMCID: PMC11277220 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In this issue honoring the contributions of Greg Lemke, the Earp and Graham lab teams discuss several threads in the discovery, action, signaling, and translational/clinical potential of MERTK, originally called c-mer, a member of the TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK (TAM) family of receptor tyrosine kinases. The 30-year history of the TAM RTK family began slowly as all three members were orphan RTKs without known ligands and/or functions when discovered by three distinct alternate molecular cloning strategies in the pre-genome sequencing era. The pace of understanding their physiologic and pathophysiologic roles has accelerated over the last decade. The activation of ligands bridging externalized phosphatidylserine (PtdSer) has placed these RTKs in a myriad of processes including neurodevelopment, cancer, and autoimmunity. The field is ripe for further advancement and this article hopefully sets the stage for further understanding and therapeutic intervention. Our review will focus on progress made through the collaborations of the Earp and Graham labs over the past 30 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- K.M. Tanim
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (K.M.T.); (A.T.); (J.M.H.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Alisha Holtzhausen
- Lineburger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
| | - Aashis Thapa
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (K.M.T.); (A.T.); (J.M.H.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Justus M. Huelse
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (K.M.T.); (A.T.); (J.M.H.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Douglas K. Graham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (K.M.T.); (A.T.); (J.M.H.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - H. Shelton Earp
- Lineburger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Yan L, Chen C, Wang L, Hong H, Wu C, Huang J, Jiang J, Chen J, Xu G, Cui Z. Analysis of gene expression in microglial apoptotic cell clearance following spinal cord injury based on machine learning algorithms. Exp Ther Med 2024; 28:292. [PMID: 38827468 PMCID: PMC11140288 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12581] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe neurological complication following spinal fracture, which has long posed a challenge for clinicians. Microglia play a dual role in the pathophysiological process after SCI, both beneficial and detrimental. The underlying mechanisms of microglial actions following SCI require further exploration. The present study combined three different machine learning algorithms, namely weighted gene co-expression network analysis, random forest analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis, to screen for differentially expressed genes in the GSE96055 microglia dataset after SCI. It then used protein-protein interaction networks and gene set enrichment analysis with single genes to investigate the key genes and signaling pathways involved in microglial function following SCI. The results indicated that microglia not only participate in neuroinflammation but also serve a significant role in the clearance mechanism of apoptotic cells following SCI. Notably, bioinformatics analysis and lipopolysaccharide + UNC569 (a MerTK-specific inhibitor) stimulation of BV2 cell experiments showed that the expression levels of Anxa2, Myo1e and Spp1 in microglia were significantly upregulated following SCI, thus potentially involved in regulating the clearance mechanism of apoptotic cells. The present study suggested that Anxa2, Myo1e and Spp1 may serve as potential targets for the future treatment of SCI and provided a theoretical basis for the development of new methods and drugs for treating SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yan
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
| | - Chu Chen
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
| | - Lingling Wang
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
| | - Hongxiang Hong
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
| | - Chunshuai Wu
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
| | - Jiayi Huang
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
| | - Jiawei Jiang
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
| | - Guanhua Xu
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
| | - Zhiming Cui
- The First People's Hospital of Nantong, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Research Institute for Spine and Spinal Cord Disease of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, P.R. China
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Pan Z, El Sharkway R, Bayoumi A, Metwally M, Gloss BS, Brink R, Lu DB, Liddle C, Alqahtani SA, Yu J, O'Connell PJ, George J, Eslam M. Inhibition of MERTK reduces organ fibrosis in mouse models of fibrotic disease. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadj0133. [PMID: 38569018 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adj0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) drives fibrosis and disease progression in a number of chronic disorders, but targeting this ubiquitously expressed cytokine may not yield a viable and safe antifibrotic therapy. Here, we sought to identify alternative ways to inhibit TGFβ signaling using human hepatic stellate cells and macrophages from humans and mice in vitro, as well as mouse models of liver, kidney, and lung fibrosis. We identified Mer tyrosine kinase (MERTK) as a TGFβ-inducible effector of fibrosis that was up-regulated during fibrosis in multiple organs in three mouse models. We confirmed these findings in liver biopsy samples from patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). MERTK also induced TGFβ expression and drove TGFβ signaling resulting in a positive feedback loop that promoted fibrosis in cultured cells. MERTK regulated both canonical and noncanonical TGFβ signaling in both mouse and human cells in vitro. MERTK increased transcription of genes regulating fibrosis by modulating chromatin accessibility and RNA polymerase II activity. In each of the three mouse models, disrupting the fibrosis-promoting signaling loop by reducing MERTK expression reduced organ fibrosis. Pharmacological inhibition of MERTK reduced fibrosis in these mouse models either when initiated immediately after injury or when initiated after fibrosis was established. Together, these data suggest that MERTK plays a role in modulating organ fibrosis and may be a potential target for treating fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Pan
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Rasha El Sharkway
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Ali Bayoumi
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Mayada Metwally
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Brian S Gloss
- Westmead Research Hub, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Robert Brink
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
- St. Vincent's Healthcare Clinical Campus, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David Bo Lu
- Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Christopher Liddle
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Saleh A Alqahtani
- Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Philip J O'Connell
- Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
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Hu Y, Revenko A, Barsoumian H, Bertolet G, Fowlkes NW, Maazi H, Green MM, He K, Sezen D, Voss TA, Leyton CSK, Masrorpour F, Rafiq Z, Puebla-Osorio N, Leuschner C, MacLeod R, Cortez MA, Welsh JW. Inhibition of MER proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase by an antisense oligonucleotide enhances treatment efficacy of immunoradiotherapy. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:70. [PMID: 38443968 PMCID: PMC10916163 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-02992-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The combination of radiotherapy and immunotherapy (immunoradiotherapy) has been increasingly used for treating a wide range of cancers. However, some tumors are resistant to immunoradiotherapy. We have previously shown that MER proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MerTK) expressed on macrophages mediates resistance to immunoradiotherapy. We therefore sought to develop therapeutics that can mitigate the negative impact of MerTK. We designed and developed a MerTK specific antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) and characterized its effects on eliciting an anti-tumor immune response in mice. METHODS 344SQR cells were injected into the right legs on day 0 and the left legs on day 4 of 8-12 weeks old female 129sv/ev mice to establish primary and secondary tumors, respectively. Radiation at a dose of 12 Gy was given to the primary tumors on days 8, 9, and 10. Mice received either anti-PD-1, anti-CTLA-4 or/and MerTK ASO starting from day 1 post tumor implantation. The composition of the tumor microenvironment and the level of MerTK on macrophages in the tumor were evaluted by flow cytometry. The expression of immune-related genes was investigated with NanoString. Lastly, the impact of MerTK ASO on the structure of the eye was histologically evaluated. RESULTS Remarkably, the addition of MerTK ASO to XRT+anti-PD1 and XRT+anti-CTLA4 profoundly slowed the growth of both primary and secondary tumors and significantly extended survival. The ASO significantly reduced the expression of MerTK in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), reprograming their phenotype from M2 to M1. In addition, MerTK ASO increased the percentage of Granzyme B+ CD8+ T cells in the secondary tumors when combined with XRT+anti-CTLA4. NanoString results demonstrated that the MerTK ASO favorably modulated immune-related genes for promoting antitumor immune response in secondary tumors. Importantly, histological analysis of eye tissues demonstrated that unlike small molecules, the MerTK ASO did not produce any detectable pathology in the eyes. CONCLUSIONS The MerTK ASO can significantly downregulate the expression of MerTK on TAMs, thereby promoting antitumor immune response. The combination of MerTK ASO with immunoradiotherapy can safely and significantly slow tumor growth and improve survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Hampartsoum Barsoumian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Genevieve Bertolet
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Natalie Wall Fowlkes
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hadi Maazi
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, CA, 92008, USA
| | - Morgan Maureen Green
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kewen He
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Duygu Sezen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tiffany A Voss
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Claudia S Kettlun Leyton
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Fatemeh Masrorpour
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Zahid Rafiq
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nahum Puebla-Osorio
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Carola Leuschner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Maria Angelica Cortez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - James W Welsh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
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Thai LM, O’Reilly L, Reibe-Pal S, Sue N, Holliday H, Small L, Schmitz-Peiffer C, Dhenni R, Wang-Wei Tsai V, Norris N, Yau B, Zhang X, Lee K, Yan C, Shi YC, Kebede MA, Brink R, Cooney GJ, Irvine KM, Breit SN, Phan TG, Swarbrick A, Biden TJ. β-cell function is regulated by metabolic and epigenetic programming of islet-associated macrophages, involving Axl, Mertk, and TGFβ receptor signaling. iScience 2023; 26:106477. [PMID: 37091234 PMCID: PMC10113792 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106477] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
We have exploited islet-associated macrophages (IAMs) as a model of resident macrophage function, focusing on more physiological conditions than the commonly used extremes of M1 (inflammation) versus M2 (tissue remodeling) polarization. Under steady state, murine IAMs are metabolically poised between aerobic glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, and thereby exert a brake on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). This is underpinned by epigenetic remodeling via the metabolically regulated histone demethylase Kdm5a. Conversely, GSIS is enhanced by engaging Axl receptors on IAMs, or by augmenting their oxidation of glucose. Following high-fat feeding, efferocytosis is stimulated in IAMs in conjunction with Mertk and TGFβ receptor signaling. This impairs GSIS and potentially contributes to β-cell failure in pre-diabetes. Thus, IAMs serve as relays in many more settings than currently appreciated, fine-tuning insulin secretion in response to dynamic changes in the external environment. Intervening in this nexus might represent a means of preserving β-cell function during metabolic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le May Thai
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Liam O’Reilly
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Nancy Sue
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Holly Holliday
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lewin Small
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Carsten Schmitz-Peiffer
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rama Dhenni
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Nicholas Norris
- School of Medical Sciences, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Belinda Yau
- Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kailun Lee
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chenxu Yan
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Yan-Chuan Shi
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Melkam A. Kebede
- School of Medical Sciences, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert Brink
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gregory J. Cooney
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Samuel N. Breit
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tri G. Phan
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alexander Swarbrick
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Trevor J. Biden
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Corresponding author
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Two-Front War on Cancer-Targeting TAM Receptors in Solid Tumour Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102488. [PMID: 35626092 PMCID: PMC9140196 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In recent years, many studies have shown the importance of TAM kinases in both normal and neoplastic cells. In this review, we present and discuss the role of the TAM family (AXL, MERTK, TYRO3) of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) as a dual target in cancer, due to their intrinsic roles in tumour cell survival, migration, chemoresistance, and their immunosuppressive roles in the tumour microenvironment. This review presents the potential of TAMs as emerging therapeutic targets in cancer treatment, focusing on the distinct structures of TAM receptor tyrosine kinases. We analyse and compare different strategies of TAM inhibition, for a full perspective of current and future battlefields in the war with cancer. Abstract Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are transmembrane receptors that bind growth factors and cytokines and contain a regulated kinase activity within their cytoplasmic domain. RTKs play an important role in signal transduction in both normal and malignant cells, and their encoding genes belong to the most frequently affected genes in cancer cells. The TAM family proteins (TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK) are involved in diverse biological processes: immune regulation, clearance of apoptotic cells, platelet aggregation, cell proliferation, survival, and migration. Recent studies show that TAMs share overlapping functions in tumorigenesis and suppression of antitumour immunity. MERTK and AXL operate in innate immune cells to suppress inflammatory responses and promote an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment, while AXL expression correlates with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, metastasis, and motility in tumours. Therefore, TAM RTKs represent a dual target in cancer due to their intrinsic roles in tumour cell survival, migration, chemoresistance, and their immunosuppressive roles in the tumour microenvironment (TME). In this review, we discuss the potential of TAMs as emerging therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. We critically assess and compare current approaches to target TAM RTKs in solid tumours and the development of new inhibitors for both extra- and intracellular domains of TAM receptor kinases.
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Liang X, Luo M, Shao B, Yang JY, Tong A, Wang RB, Liu YT, Jun R, Liu T, Yi T, Zhao X, Wei YQ, Wei XW. Phosphatidylserine released from apoptotic cells in tumor induces M2-like macrophage polarization through the PSR-STAT3-JMJD3 axis. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2022; 42:205-222. [PMID: 35191227 PMCID: PMC8923121 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Understanding how the tumor microenvironment is shaped by various factors is important for the development of new therapeutic strategies. Tumor cells often undergo spontaneous apoptotic cell death in tumor microenvironment, these apoptotic cells are histologically co‐localized with immunosuppressive macrophages. However, the mechanism by which tumor cell apoptosis modulates macrophage polarization is not fully understood. In this study, we aimed to explore the tumor promoting effects of apoptotic tumor cells and the signal pathways involved. Methods Apoptotic cells and macrophages in tumors were detected by immunohistochemical staining. Morphological analysis was performed with Giemsa staining. Lipids generated from apoptotic cells were detected by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Phosphatidylserine‐containing liposomes were prepared to mimic apoptotic cells. The expression of protein was determined by real‐time PCR, immunohistochemistry enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and Western blotting. Mouse malignant ascites and subcutaneous tumor models were designed for in vivo analysis. Transgenic mice with specific genes knocked out and inhibitors specific to certain proteins were used for the mechanistic studies. Results The location and the number of apoptotic cells were correlated with that of macrophages in several types of carcinomas. Phosphatidylserine, a lipid molecule generated in apoptotic cells, induced polarization and accumulation of M2‐like macrophages in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, sustained administration of phosphoserine promoted tumor growth in the malignant ascites and subcutaneous tumor models. Further analyses suggested that phosphoserine induced a M2‐like phenotype in macrophages, which was related to the activation of phosphoserine receptors including T‐cell immunoglobin mucin 4 (TIM4) and the FAK‐SRC‐STAT3 signaling pathway as well as elevated the expression of the histone demethylase Jumonji domain‐containing protein 3 (JMJD3). Administration of specific inhibitors of these pathways could reduce tumor progression. Conclusions This study suggest that apoptotic cell‐generated phosphoserine might be a notable signal for immunosuppressive macrophages in tumors, and the related pathways might be potential therapeutic targets for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Liang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Min Luo
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Bin Shao
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Jing-Yun Yang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - An Tong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Rui-Bo Wang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yan-Tong Liu
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Ren Jun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Ting Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Tao Yi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Quan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Xia-Wei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
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Pastore M, Caligiuri A, Raggi C, Navari N, Piombanti B, Di Maira G, Rovida E, Piccinni MP, Lombardelli L, Logiodice F, Rombouts K, Petta S, Marra F. Macrophage MerTK promotes profibrogenic cross-talk with hepatic stellate cells via soluble mediators. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100444. [PMID: 35252828 PMCID: PMC8891698 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Activation of Kupffer cells and recruitment of monocytes are key events in fibrogenesis. These cells release soluble mediators which induce the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main fibrogenic cell type within the liver. Mer tyrosine kinase (MerTK) signaling regulates multiple processes in macrophages and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis-related fibrosis. In this study, we explored if MerTK activation in macrophages influences the profibrogenic phenotype of HSCs. Methods Macrophages were derived from THP-1 cells or differentiated from peripheral blood monocytes towards MerTK+/CD206+/CD163+/CD209- macrophages. The role of MerTK was assessed by pharmacologic and genetic inhibition. HSC migration was determined in Boyden chambers, viability was measured by the MTT assay, and proliferation was evaluated by the BrdU incorporation assay. Results Gas-6 induced MerTK phosphorylation and Akt activation in macrophages, and these effects were inhibited by UNC569. During polarization, MerTK+/CD206+/CD163+/CD209- macrophages exhibited activation of STAT3, ERK1/2, p38 and increased expression of VEGF-A. Activation of MerTK in THP-1 macrophages induced a secretome which promoted a significant increase in migration, proliferation, viability and expression of profibrogenic factors in HSCs. Similarly, conditioned medium from MerTK+ macrophages induced a significant increase in cell migration, proliferation, STAT3 and p38 phosphorylation and upregulation of IL-8 expression in HSCs. Moreover, conditioned medium from Gas-6-stimulated Kupffer cells induced a significant increase in HSC proliferation. These effects were specifically related to MerTK expression and activity in macrophages, as indicated by pharmacologic inhibition and knockdown experiments. Conclusions MerTK activation in macrophages modifies the secretome to promote profibrogenic features in HSCs, implicating this receptor in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. Lay summary Fibrosis represents the process of scarring occurring in patients with chronic liver diseases. This process depends on production of scar tissue components by a specific cell type, named hepatic stellate cells, and is regulated by interaction with other cells. Herein, we show that activation of MerTK, a receptor present in a population of macrophages, causes the production of factors that act on hepatic stellate cells, increasing their ability to produce scar tissue. MerTK, a member of the TAM family of proteins, is highly expressed in MerTK+/CD206+/CD163+/CD209- macrophages. In these macrophages, activation of MerTK induces phosphorylation of Akt, STAT3, ERK1/2, p38 and increased expression of VEGF-A. MerTK activation in macrophages modulates the secretome to promote the profibrogenic phenotype of human HSCs. Profibrogenic effects of macrophages expressing high levels of MerTK were blocked by knockdown or inhibition of MerTK.
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9
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Moradinasab S, Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi A, Ghaffari SH, Bashash D. Targeting macrophage-mediated tumor cell phagocytosis: An overview of phagocytosis checkpoints blockade, nanomedicine intervention, and engineered CAR-macrophage therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 103:108499. [PMID: 34972068 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has been developing at an unprecedented speed with promising therapeutic outcomes in the wide spectrum of cancers. Up until now, most immunotherapies have focused on adaptive immunity; however, investigating the potential of macrophage phagocytosis and consequent adaptive immune cross-priming has led to a growing interest in exploiting macrophages in cancer therapy. In light of the positive evidence from preclinical studies and early clinical data, targeting macrophage phagocytosis has become a promising therapeutic strategy. Here, we review therapies based on harnessing and amplifying macrophage phagocytosis, such as blocking phagocytosis checkpoints and exploiting nanoparticles as efficient approaches in elevating macrophages-mediated phagocytosis. The present study introduces CAR-macrophage as the state-of-the-art modality serving as the bridge between the innate and adaptive immune system to mount a superior anti-tumor response in the treatment of cancer. We also take a look at the recent reports of therapies based on CAR-engineered macrophages with the hope of providing a future research direction for expanding the application of CAR-macrophage therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Moradinasab
- Iranian Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed H Ghaffari
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Shariati Hospital, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Davood Bashash
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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10
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Ohta S, Tago K, Kuchimaru T, Funakoshi-Tago M, Horie H, Aoki-Ohmura C, Matsugi J, Yanagisawa K. The role of MerTK in promoting cell migration is enhanced by the oncogenic Ras/IL-33 signaling axis. FEBS J 2021; 289:1950-1967. [PMID: 34743410 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16271] [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: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Ras genes are frequently mutated in many cancer types; however, there are currently no conclusively effective anticancer drugs against Ras-induced cancer. Therefore, the downstream effectors of Ras signaling need to be identified for the development of promising novel therapeutic approaches. We previously reported that oncogenic Ras induced the expression of NF-HEV/IL-33, a member of the interleukin-1 family, and showed that intracellular IL-33 was required for oncogenic Ras-induced cellular transformation. In the present study, we demonstrated that the c-Mer proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MerTK), a receptor tyrosine kinase, played essential roles in oncogenic Ras/IL-33 signaling. The expression of MerTK was enhanced in transformed NIH-3T3 cells by the expression of oncogenic Ras, H-Ras (G12V), in an IL-33-dependent manner. In human colorectal cancer tissues, MerTK expression also correlated with IL-33 expression. The knockdown of IL-33 or MerTK effectively attenuated the migration of NIH-3T3 cells transformed by H-Ras (G12V) and A549, LoVo, and HCT116 cells harboring an oncogenic K-Ras mutation. Furthermore, the suppression of Ras-induced cell migration by the knockdown of IL-33 was rescued by the enforced expression of MerTK. The present results also revealed that MerTK was effectively phosphorylated in NIH-3T3 cells transformed by Ras (G12V). Ras signaling was essential for the tyrosine phosphorylation of MerTK, and the kinase activity of MerTK was indispensable for accelerating cell migration. Collectively, the present results reveal a novel role for MerTK in cancer malignancy, which may be utilized to develop novel therapeutic strategies that target Ras-transformed cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ohta
- Department of Biochemistry, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kenji Tago
- Department of Biochemistry, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | | | | | - Hisanaga Horie
- Department of Surgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | | | - Jitsuhiro Matsugi
- Department of Biochemistry, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Ken Yanagisawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
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11
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Therapeutic Targeting of the Gas6/Axl Signaling Pathway in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189953. [PMID: 34576116 PMCID: PMC8469858 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Many signaling pathways are dysregulated in cancer cells and the host tumor microenvironment. Aberrant receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) pathways promote cancer development, progression, and metastasis. Hence, numerous therapeutic interventions targeting RTKs have been actively pursued. Axl is an RTK that belongs to the Tyro3, Axl, MerTK (TAM) subfamily. Axl binds to a high affinity ligand growth arrest specific 6 (Gas6) that belongs to the vitamin K-dependent family of proteins. The Gas6/Axl signaling pathway has been implicated to promote progression, metastasis, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance in many cancer types. Therapeutic agents targeting Gas6 and Axl have been developed, and promising results have been observed in both preclinical and clinical settings when such agents are used alone or in combination therapy. This review examines the current state of therapeutics targeting the Gas6/Axl pathway in cancer and discusses Gas6- and Axl-targeting agents that have been evaluated preclinically and clinically.
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12
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Tajbakhsh A, Gheibi Hayat SM, Movahedpour A, Savardashtaki A, Loveless R, Barreto GE, Teng Y, Sahebkar A. The complex roles of efferocytosis in cancer development, metastasis, and treatment. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111776. [PMID: 34062411 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
When tumor cells are killed by targeted therapy, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy, they trigger their primary tumor by releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Microenvironmental interactions can also promote tumor heterogeneity and development. In this line, several immune cells within the tumor microenvironment, including macrophages, dendritic cells, regulatory T-cells, and CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, are involved in the clearance of apoptotic tumor cells through a process called efferocytosis. Although the efficiency of apoptotic tumor cell efferocytosis is positive under physiological conditions, there are controversies regarding its usefulness in treatment-induced apoptotic tumor cells (ATCs). Efferocytosis can show the limitation of cytotoxic treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Since cytotoxic treatments lead to extensive cell mortality, efferocytosis, and macrophage polarization toward an M2 phenotype, the immune response may get involved in tumor recurrence and metastasis. Tumor cells can use the anti-inflammatory effect of apoptotic tumor cell efferocytosis to induce an immunosuppressive condition that is tumor-tolerant. Since M2 polarization and efferocytosis are tumor-promoting processes, the receptors on macrophages act as potential targets for cancer therapy. Moreover, researchers have shown that efferocytosis-related molecules/pathways are potential targets for cancer therapy. These include phosphatidylserine and calreticulin, Tyro3, Axl, and Mer tyrosine kinase (MerTK), receptors of tyrosine kinase, indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1, annexin V, CD47, TGF-β, IL-10, and macrophage phenotype switch are combined with conventional therapy, which can be more effective in cancer treatment. Thus, we set out to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of efferocytosis in treatment-induced apoptotic tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Tajbakhsh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Gheibi Hayat
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ahmad Movahedpour
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Savardashtaki
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Reid Loveless
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - George E Barreto
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Yong Teng
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Georgia Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Department of Medical Laboratory, Imaging and Radiologic Sciences, College of Allied Health, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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13
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Llopiz D, Ruiz M, Silva L, Repáraz D, Aparicio B, Egea J, Lasarte JJ, Redin E, Calvo A, Angel M, Berzofsky JA, Stroncek D, Sarobe P. Inhibition of adjuvant-induced TAM receptors potentiates cancer vaccine immunogenicity and therapeutic efficacy. Cancer Lett 2020; 499:279-289. [PMID: 33232788 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Analyzing immunomodulatory elements operating during antitumor vaccination in prostate cancer patients and murine models we identified IL-10-producing DC as a subset with poorer immunogenicity and clinical efficacy. Inhibitory TAM receptors MER and AXL were upregulated on murine IL-10+ DC. Thus, we analyzed conditions inducing these molecules and the potential benefit of their blockade during vaccination. MER and AXL upregulation was more efficiently induced by a vaccine containing Imiquimod than by a poly(I:C)-containing vaccine. Interestingly, MER expression was found on monocyte-derived DC, and was dependent on IL-10. TAM blockade improved Imiquimod-induced DC activation in vitro and in vivo, resulting in increased vaccine-induced T-cell responses, which were further reinforced by concomitant IL-10 inhibition. In different tumor models, a triple therapy (including vaccination, TAM inhibition and IL-10 blockade) provided the strongest therapeutic effect, associated with enhanced T-cell immunity and enhanced CD8+ T cell tumor infiltration. Finally, MER levels in DC used for vaccination in cancer patients correlated with IL-10 expression, showing an inverse association with vaccine-induced clinical response. These results suggest that TAM receptors upregulated during vaccination may constitute an additional target in combinatorial therapeutic vaccination strategies.
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MESH Headings
- Adjuvants, Immunologic/administration & dosage
- Animals
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/drug effects
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Cancer Vaccines/administration & dosage
- Cancer Vaccines/immunology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Dendritic Cells/drug effects
- Dendritic Cells/immunology
- Dendritic Cells/metabolism
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/immunology
- Humans
- Imiquimod/administration & dosage
- Immunogenicity, Vaccine/drug effects
- Immunotherapy/methods
- Interleukin-10/metabolism
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/drug effects
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/metabolism
- Male
- Melanoma, Experimental/immunology
- Melanoma, Experimental/pathology
- Melanoma, Experimental/therapy
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Poly I-C/administration & dosage
- Prostatic Neoplasms/immunology
- Prostatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Prostatic Neoplasms/therapy
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins/genetics
- Pyrimidines
- Quinolines
- Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/genetics
- Up-Regulation/drug effects
- Up-Regulation/immunology
- c-Mer Tyrosine Kinase/antagonists & inhibitors
- c-Mer Tyrosine Kinase/genetics
- Axl Receptor Tyrosine Kinase
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Llopiz
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Marta Ruiz
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Leyre Silva
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - David Repáraz
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Belén Aparicio
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Josune Egea
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan J Lasarte
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Esther Redin
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERONC, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain; Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Alfonso Calvo
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERONC, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain; Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Matthew Angel
- Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA; Center for Cancer Research Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., FNLCR, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Jay A Berzofsky
- Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David Stroncek
- Center for Cellular Engineering, Department of Transfusion Medicine, NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Pablo Sarobe
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
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14
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Gadiyar V, Patel G, Davra V. Immunological role of TAM receptors in the cancer microenvironment. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 357:57-79. [PMID: 33234245 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2020.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
TAM receptors belong to the family of receptor tyrosine kinases, comprising of Tyro3, Axl and Mertk receptors (TAMs) and are important homeostatic regulators of inflammation in higher eukaryotes. Along with their ligands, Gas6 and ProteinS, TAMs acts as receptors to phosphatidylserine (PtdSer), an anionic phospholipid that becomes externalized on the surface of apoptotic and stressed cells. TAM receptors, specially Mertk, have been well established to play a role in the process of efferocytosis, the engulfment of dying cells. Besides being efferocytic receptors, TAMs are pleiotropic immune modulators as the lack of TAM receptors in various mouse models lead to chronic inflammation and autoimmunity. Owing to their immune modulatory role, the PtdSer-TAM receptor signaling axis has been well characterized as a global immune-suppressive signal, and in cancers, and emerging literature implicates TAM receptors in cancer immunology and anti-tumor therapeutics. In the tumor microenvironment, immune-suppressive signals, such as ones that originate from TAM receptor signaling can be detrimental to anti-tumor therapy. In this chapter, we discuss immune modulatory functions of TAM receptors in the tumor microenvironment as well role of differentially expressed TAM receptors and their interactions with immune and tumor cells. Finally, we describe current strategies being utilized for targeting TAMs in several cancers and their implications in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Gadiyar
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Gopi Patel
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
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15
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Crystal Structure of the Kinase Domain of MerTK in Complex with AZD7762 Provides Clues for Structure-Based Drug Development. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21217878. [PMID: 33114206 PMCID: PMC7660649 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant tyrosine-protein kinase Mer (MerTK) expression triggers prosurvival signaling and contributes to cell survival, invasive motility, and chemoresistance in many kinds of cancers. In addition, recent reports suggested that MerTK could be a primary target for abnormal platelet aggregation. Consequently, MerTK inhibitors may promote cancer cell death, sensitize cells to chemotherapy, and act as new antiplatelet agents. We screened an inhouse chemical library to discover novel small-molecule MerTK inhibitors, and identified AZD7762, which is known as a checkpoint-kinase (Chk) inhibitor. The inhibition of MerTK by AZD7762 was validated using an in vitro homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay and through monitoring the decrease in phosphorylated MerTK in two lung cancer cell lines. We also determined the crystal structure of the MerTK:AZD7762 complex and revealed the binding mode of AZD7762 to MerTK. Structural information from the MerTK:AZD7762 complex and its comparison with other MerTK:inhibitor structures gave us new insights for optimizing the development of inhibitors targeting MerTK.
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16
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Huelse J, Fridlyand D, Earp S, DeRyckere D, Graham DK. MERTK in cancer therapy: Targeting the receptor tyrosine kinase in tumor cells and the immune system. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 213:107577. [PMID: 32417270 PMCID: PMC9847360 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase MERTK is aberrantly expressed in numerous human malignancies, and is a novel target in cancer therapeutics. Physiologic roles of MERTK include regulation of tissue homeostasis and repair, innate immune control, and platelet aggregation. However, aberrant expression in a wide range of liquid and solid malignancies promotes neoplasia via growth factor independence, cell cycle progression, proliferation and tumor growth, resistance to apoptosis, and promotion of tumor metastases. Additionally, MERTK signaling contributes to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment via induction of an anti-inflammatory cytokine profile and regulation of the PD-1 axis, as well as regulation of macrophage, myeloid-derived suppressor cell, natural killer cell and T cell functions. Various MERTK-directed therapies are in preclinical development, and clinical trials are underway. In this review we discuss MERTK inhibition as an emerging strategy for cancer therapy, focusing on MERTK expression and function in neoplasia and its role in mediating resistance to cytotoxic and targeted therapies as well as in suppressing anti-tumor immunity. Additionally, we review preclinical and clinical pharmacological strategies to target MERTK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justus Huelse
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Diana Fridlyand
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Shelton Earp
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Douglas K. Graham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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17
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Huelse JM, Fridlyand DM, Earp S, DeRyckere D, Graham DK. MERTK in cancer therapy: Targeting the receptor tyrosine kinase in tumor cells and the immune system. Pharmacol Ther 2020. [PMID: 32417270 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107577107577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase MERTK is aberrantly expressed in numerous human malignancies, and is a novel target in cancer therapeutics. Physiologic roles of MERTK include regulation of tissue homeostasis and repair, innate immune control, and platelet aggregation. However, aberrant expression in a wide range of liquid and solid malignancies promotes neoplasia via growth factor independence, cell cycle progression, proliferation and tumor growth, resistance to apoptosis, and promotion of tumor metastases. Additionally, MERTK signaling contributes to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment via induction of an anti-inflammatory cytokine profile and regulation of the PD-1 axis, as well as regulation of macrophage, myeloid-derived suppressor cell, natural killer cell and T cell functions. Various MERTK-directed therapies are in preclinical development, and clinical trials are underway. In this review we discuss MERTK inhibition as an emerging strategy for cancer therapy, focusing on MERTK expression and function in neoplasia and its role in mediating resistance to cytotoxic and targeted therapies as well as in suppressing anti-tumor immunity. Additionally, we review preclinical and clinical pharmacological strategies to target MERTK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justus M Huelse
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Diana M Fridlyand
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Shelton Earp
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Douglas K Graham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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18
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Park G, Burroughs-Garcia J, Foster CA, Hasan A, Borga C, Frazer JK. Zebrafish B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: new findings in an old model. Oncotarget 2020; 11:1292-1305. [PMID: 32341750 PMCID: PMC7170496 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric, and ninth most common adult, cancer. ALL can develop in either B or T lymphocytes, but B-lineage ALL (B-ALL) exceeds T-ALL clinically. As for other cancers, animal models allow study of the molecular mechanisms driving ALL. Several zebrafish (Danio rerio) T-ALL models have been reported, but until recently, robust D. rerio B-ALL models were not described. Then, D. rerio B-ALL was discovered in two related zebrafish transgenic lines; both were already known to develop T-ALL. Here, we report new B-ALL findings in one of these models, fish expressing transgenic human MYC (hMYC). We describe B-ALL incidence in a large cohort of hMYC fish, and show B-ALL in two new lines where T-ALL does not interfere with B-ALL detection. We also demonstrate B-ALL responses to steroid and radiation treatments, which effect ALL remissions, but are usually followed by prompt relapses. Finally, we report gene expression in zebrafish B lymphocytes and B-ALL, in both bulk samples and single B- and T-ALL cells. Using these gene expression profiles, we compare differences between the two new D. rerio B-ALL models, which are both driven by transgenic mammalian MYC oncoproteins. Collectively, these new data expand the utility of this new vertebrate B-ALL model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilseung Park
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Jessica Burroughs-Garcia
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Clay A Foster
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Ameera Hasan
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Chiara Borga
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - J Kimble Frazer
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
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19
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Chen Y, Favata M, Pusey M, Li J, Lo Y, Ye M, Wynn R, Wang X, Yao W, Chen Y. Identification of pAKT as a pharmacodynamic marker for MER kinase in human melanoma G361 cells. Biomark Res 2020; 8:4. [PMID: 32042425 PMCID: PMC7001211 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-020-0184-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The MER signaling pathway represents an attractive therapeutic target for human cancers. Growth arrest–specific protein 6 (GAS6)–induced MER phosphorylation is often unstable and difficult to detect without pervanadate pretreatment in human cancer cells, posing a challenge for the development of selective MER kinase inhibitors. Here, we identified phosphorylated AKT (pAKT) as a specific pharmacodynamic marker for MER kinase inhibitors in human melanoma G361 cells. Methods The expression of MER, TYRO3, and AXL were profiled among multiple human cancer cells. To determine whether they play a role in the activation of pAKT, MER and TYRO3 were selectively depleted by small, interfering RNA knockdown. In addition, using AKT phosphorylation as a readout, a high-throughput cell-based assay was established in G361 cells for evaluation of the potency of potential inhibitors of MER pathway activation. Results We demonstrated that high levels of MER and TYRO3, but not AXL, were expressed in G361 cells. In these cells, pAKT was induced by GAS6 treatment, which could be reversed by AXL/MER inhibitors. We showed that GAS6-induced pAKT is only dependent on MER kinase, but not TYRO3, in G361 cells. Furthermore, we observed a correlation in potency between inhibition of pAKT in G361 cells and pMER in MER-overexpressing Ba/F3 cells by these inhibitors. Conclusions In summary, we have demonstrated that GAS6-induced pAKT is a possible pharmacodynamic marker for the inhibition of MER kinase, and we have successfully developed a cell-based functional assay for screening small-molecule inhibitors of MER kinase for potential therapeutic utility in treating GAS6/MER-deregulated human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyu Chen
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
| | - Margaret Favata
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
| | - Michelle Pusey
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
| | - Jun Li
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
| | - Yvonne Lo
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
| | - Min Ye
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
| | - Richard Wynn
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
| | - Xiaozhao Wang
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
| | - Wenqing Yao
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
| | - Yingnan Chen
- Incyte Research Institute, 1801 Augustine Cut-off, Wilmington, DE 19803 USA
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20
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Ghosh Roy S. TAM receptors: A phosphatidylserine receptor family and its implications in viral infections. TAM RECEPTORS IN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2020; 357:81-122. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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21
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AXL receptor tyrosine kinase as a promising anti-cancer approach: functions, molecular mechanisms and clinical applications. Mol Cancer 2019; 18:153. [PMID: 31684958 PMCID: PMC6827209 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-019-1090-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 286] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular targeted therapy for cancer has been a research hotspot for decades. AXL is a member of the TAM family with the high-affinity ligand growth arrest-specific protein 6 (GAS6). The Gas6/AXL signalling pathway is associated with tumour cell growth, metastasis, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, drug resistance, immune regulation and stem cell maintenance. Different therapeutic agents targeting AXL have been developed, typically including small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), nucleotide aptamers, soluble receptors, and several natural compounds. In this review, we first provide a comprehensive discussion of the structure, function, regulation, and signalling pathways of AXL. Then, we highlight recent strategies for targeting AXL in the treatment of cancer.AXL-targeted drugs, either as single agents or in combination with conventional chemotherapy or other small molecule inhibitors, are likely to improve the survival of many patients. However, future investigations into AXL molecular signalling networks and robust predictive biomarkers are warranted to select patients who could receive clinical benefit and to avoid potential toxicities.
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22
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Shin SA, Moon SY, Park D, Park JB, Lee CS. Apoptotic cell clearance in the tumor microenvironment: a potential cancer therapeutic target. Arch Pharm Res 2019; 42:658-671. [PMID: 31243646 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-019-01169-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Millions of cells in the human body undergo apoptosis not only under normal physiological conditions but also under pathological conditions such as infection or other diseases related to acute tissue injury. Swift apoptotic cell clearance is essential for tissue homeostasis. Defective clearance of dead cells is linked to pathogenesis of diseases such as inflammatory diseases, atherosclerosis, neurological disease, and cancer. Significance of apoptotic cell clearance has been emerging as an interesting field for disease treatment. Efficient apoptotic cell clearance plays an important role in reducing inflammation through the suppression of inappropriate inflammatory responses under healthy and diseased conditions. However, apoptotic cell clearance related to cancer pathogenesis is more complex in tumor microenvironments. Chronic inflammation resulting from the failure of apoptotic cell clearance can contribute to tumor progression. Conversely, tumor cells can exploit the anti-inflammatory effect of apoptotic cell clearance to generate an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In this review, focus is on the current understanding of apoptotic cell clearance in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, we discuss how signaling molecules (PtdSer and PtdSer recognition receptor) mediating apoptotic cell clearance are aberrantly expressed in the tumor microenvironment and their current development state as potential therapeutic targets for clinical cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Ah Shin
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Young Moon
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Daeho Park
- School of Life Sciences and Aging Research Institute, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Bae Park
- Specific Organs Cancer Branch, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi, 10408, Republic of Korea.,Department of System Cancer Science, Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi, 10408, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Sup Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju, Gyeongnam, 52828, Republic of Korea.
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23
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Latteyer S, Christoph S, Theurer S, Hönes GS, Schmid KW, Führer D, Moeller LC. Thyroxine promotes lung cancer growth in an orthotopic mouse model. Endocr Relat Cancer 2019; 26:565-574. [PMID: 30893642 DOI: 10.1530/erc-18-0353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones are important for physiology and homeostasis. In addition to nuclear thyroid hormone receptors, the plasma membrane protein integrin αvβ3 has been recognized as a receptor for both thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Here, we studied whether thyroid hormone promotes growth of murine lung cancer via αvβ3 in vivo. Murine Lewis lung carcinoma cells (3LL), stably transfected with luciferase, were injected into mouse lungs. Tumor growth in untreated mice was compared to hypothyroid mice and hypothyroid mice treated with T3 or T4 with or without the αvβ3 inhibitor 3,5,3',5'-tetraiodothyroacetic acid (Tetrac). Tumor progression was determined by serial in vivo imaging of bioluminescence emitted from the tumor. Tumor weight was recorded at the end of the experiment. Neoangiogenesis was determined by immunohistochemistry for CD31. Tumor growth was reduced in hypothyroidism and increased by T4 treatment. Strikingly, only T4 but not T3 treatment promoted tumor growth. This T4 effect was abrogated by the αvβ3 inhibitor Tetrac. Tumor weight and neoangiogenesis were also significantly increased only in T4-treated mice. The T4 effect on tumor weight and neoangiogenesis was abolished by Tetrac. In vitro, T4 did not stimulate 3LL cell proliferation or signaling pathway activation. We conclude that T4 promotes lung cancer growth in this orthotopic mouse model. The tumor-promoting effect is mediated via the plasma membrane integrin αvβ3 and increased neoangiogenesis rather than direct stimulation of 3LL cells. These data suggest that such effects of levothyroxine may need to be considered in cancer patients on T4 substitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Latteyer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - S Christoph
- Clinic for Bone Marrow Transplants, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - S Theurer
- Institute of Pathology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - G S Hönes
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - K W Schmid
- Institute of Pathology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - D Führer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - L C Moeller
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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24
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Pastore M, Grimaudo S, Pipitone RM, Lori G, Raggi C, Petta S, Marra F. Role of Myeloid-Epithelial-Reproductive Tyrosine Kinase and Macrophage Polarization in the Progression of Atherosclerotic Lesions Associated With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:604. [PMID: 31191323 PMCID: PMC6548874 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent lines of evidence highlight the involvement of myeloid-epithelial-reproductive tyrosine kinase (MerTK) in metabolic disease associated with liver damage. MerTK is mainly expressed in anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages where it mediates transcriptional changes including suppression of proinflammatory cytokines and enhancement of inflammatory repressors. MerTK is regulated by metabolic pathways through nuclear sensors including LXRs, PPARs, and RXRs, in response to apoptotic bodies or to other sources of cholesterol. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most serious public health problems worldwide. It is a clinicopathological syndrome closely related to obesity, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress. It includes a spectrum of conditions ranging from simple steatosis, characterized by hepatic fat accumulation with or without inflammation, to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), defined by hepatic fat deposition with hepatocellular damage, inflammation, and accumulating fibrosis. Several studies support an association between NAFLD and the incidence of cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis, a major cause of death worldwide. This pathological condition consists in a chronic and progressive inflammatory process in the intimal layer of large- and medium-sized arteries. The complications of advanced atherosclerosis include chronic or acute ischemic damage in the tissue perfused by the affected artery, leading to cellular death. By identifying specific targets influencing lipid metabolism and cardiovascular-related diseases, the present review highlights the role of MerTK in NAFLD-associated atherosclerotic lesions as a potential innovative therapeutic target. Therapeutic advantages might derive from the use of compounds selective for nuclear receptors targeting PPARs rather than LXRs regulating macrophage lipid metabolism and macrophage mediated inflammation, by favoring the expression of MerTK, which mediates an immunoregulatory action with a reduction in inflammation and in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirella Pastore
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefania Grimaudo
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosaria Maria Pipitone
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giulia Lori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Raggi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Salvatore Petta
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabio Marra
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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25
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Myers KV, Amend SR, Pienta KJ. Targeting Tyro3, Axl and MerTK (TAM receptors): implications for macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. Mol Cancer 2019; 18:94. [PMID: 31088471 PMCID: PMC6515593 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-019-1022-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages are an abundant cell type in the tumor microenvironment. These macrophages serve as a promising target for treatment of cancer due to their roles in promoting cancer progression and simultaneous immunosuppression. The TAM receptors (Tyro3, Axl and MerTK) are promising therapeutic targets on tumor-associated macrophages. The TAM receptors are a family of receptor tyrosine kinases with shared ligands Gas6 and Protein S that skew macrophage polarization towards a pro-tumor M2-like phenotype. In macrophages, the TAM receptors also promote apoptotic cell clearance, a tumor-promoting process called efferocytosis. The TAM receptors bind the "eat-me" signal phosphatidylserine on apoptotic cell membranes using Gas6 and Protein S as bridging ligands. Post-efferocytosis, macrophages are further polarized to a pro-tumor M2-like phenotype and secrete increased levels of immunosuppressive cytokines. Since M2 polarization and efferocytosis are tumor-promoting processes, the TAM receptors on macrophages serve as exciting targets for cancer therapy. Current TAM receptor-directed therapies in preclinical development and clinical trials may have anti-cancer effects though impacting macrophage phenotype and function in addition to the cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla V. Myers
- 0000 0001 2171 9311grid.21107.35Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA ,0000 0001 2171 9311grid.21107.35The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Sarah R. Amend
- 0000 0001 2171 9311grid.21107.35The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Kenneth J. Pienta
- 0000 0001 2171 9311grid.21107.35Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA ,0000 0001 2171 9311grid.21107.35The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA ,0000 0001 2171 9311grid.21107.35Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA ,0000 0001 2171 9311grid.21107.35Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
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26
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Smart SK, Vasileiadi E, Wang X, DeRyckere D, Graham DK. The Emerging Role of TYRO3 as a Therapeutic Target in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10120474. [PMID: 30501104 PMCID: PMC6316664 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10120474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The TAM family (TYRO3, AXL, MERTK) tyrosine kinases play roles in diverse biological processes including immune regulation, clearance of apoptotic cells, platelet aggregation, and cell proliferation, survival, and migration. While AXL and MERTK have been extensively studied, less is known about TYRO3. Recent studies revealed roles for TYRO3 in cancer and suggest TYRO3 as a therapeutic target in this context. TYRO3 is overexpressed in many types of cancer and functions to promote tumor cell survival and/or proliferation, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy. In addition, higher levels of TYRO3 expression have been associated with decreased overall survival in patients with colorectal, hepatocellular, and breast cancers. Here we review the physiological roles for TYRO3 and its expression and functions in cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment, with emphasis on the signaling pathways that are regulated downstream of TYRO3 and emerging roles for TYRO3 in the immune system. Translational agents that target TYRO3 are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherri K Smart
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Eleana Vasileiadi
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Douglas K Graham
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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27
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Zhao J, Zhang D, Zhang W, Stashko MA, DeRyckere D, Vasileiadi E, Parker RE, Hunter D, Liu Q, Zhang Y, Norris-Drouin J, Li B, Drewry DH, Kireev D, Graham DK, Earp HS, Frye SV, Wang X. Highly Selective MERTK Inhibitors Achieved by a Single Methyl Group. J Med Chem 2018; 61:10242-10254. [PMID: 30347155 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Although all kinases share the same ATP binding pocket, subtle differences in the residues that form the pocket differentiate individual kinases' affinity for ATP competitive inhibitors. We have found that by introducing a single methyl group, the selectivity of our MERTK inhibitors over another target, FLT3, was increased up to 1000-fold (compound 31). Compound 19 was identified as an in vivo tool compound with subnanomolar activity against MERTK and 38-fold selectivity over FLT3 in vitro. The potency and selectivity of 19 for MERTK over FLT3 were confirmed in cell-based assays using human cancer cell lines. Compound 19 had favorable pharmacokinetic properties in mice. Phosphorylation of MERTK was decreased by 75% in bone marrow leukemia cells from mice treated with 19 compared to vehicle-treated mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jichen Zhao
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Dehui Zhang
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States.,Meryx, Inc. , 450 West Drive , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Weihe Zhang
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Michael A Stashko
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia 30322 , United States
| | - Eleana Vasileiadi
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia 30322 , United States
| | - Rebecca E Parker
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia 30322 , United States
| | - Debra Hunter
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine , University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Qingyang Liu
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Yuewei Zhang
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Jacqueline Norris-Drouin
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Bing Li
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - David H Drewry
- Meryx, Inc. , 450 West Drive , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Dmitri Kireev
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Douglas K Graham
- Meryx, Inc. , 450 West Drive , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States.,Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia 30322 , United States
| | - Henry Shelton Earp
- Meryx, Inc. , 450 West Drive , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States.,Department of Pharmacology , University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States.,Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine , University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Stephen V Frye
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States.,Meryx, Inc. , 450 West Drive , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States.,Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine , University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry , UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States.,Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine , University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill , North Carolina 27599 , United States
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28
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Lee-Sherick AB, Jacobsen KM, Henry CJ, Huey MG, Parker RE, Page LS, Hill AA, Wang X, Frye SV, Earp HS, Jordan CT, DeRyckere D, Graham DK. MERTK inhibition alters the PD-1 axis and promotes anti-leukemia immunity. JCI Insight 2018; 3:97941. [PMID: 30385715 PMCID: PMC6238750 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.97941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
MERTK is ectopically expressed and promotes survival in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells and is thus a potential therapeutic target. Here we demonstrate both direct therapeutic effects of MERTK inhibition on leukemia cells and induction of anti-leukemia immunity via suppression of the coinhibitory PD-1 axis. A MERTK-selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor, MRX-2843, mediated therapeutic anti-leukemia effects in immunocompromised mice bearing a MERTK-expressing human leukemia xenograft. In addition, inhibition of host MERTK by genetic deletion (Mertk-/- mice) or treatment with MRX-2843 significantly decreased tumor burden and prolonged survival in immune-competent mice inoculated with a MERTK-negative ALL, suggesting immune-mediated therapeutic activity. In this context, MERTK inhibition led to significant decreases in expression of the coinhibitory ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2 on CD11b+ monocytes/macrophages in the leukemia microenvironment. Furthermore, although T cells do not express MERTK, inhibition of MERTK indirectly decreased PD-1 expression on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and decreased the incidence of splenic FOXP3+ Tregs at sites of leukemic infiltration, leading to increased T cell activation. These data demonstrate direct and immune-mediated therapeutic activities in response to MERTK inhibition in ALL models and provide validation of a translational agent targeting MERTK for modulation of tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristen M. Jacobsen
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Curtis J. Henry
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Madeline G. Huey
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rebecca E. Parker
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | - Xiaodong Wang
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy
| | - Stephen V. Frye
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, and
| | - H. Shelton Earp
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, and
- Departments of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Craig T. Jordan
- Division of Hematology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Douglas K. Graham
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Yan D, Parker RE, Wang X, Frye SV, Earp HS, DeRyckere D, Graham DK. MERTK Promotes Resistance to Irreversible EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Non–small Cell Lung Cancers Expressing Wild-type EGFR Family Members. Clin Cancer Res 2018; 24:6523-6535. [DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-18-0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Shi C, Li X, Wang X, Ding N, Ping L, Shi Y, Mi L, Lai Y, Song Y, Zhu J. The proto-oncogene Mer tyrosine kinase is a novel therapeutic target in mantle cell lymphoma. J Hematol Oncol 2018; 11:43. [PMID: 29554921 PMCID: PMC5859520 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-018-0584-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an incurable B cell-derived malignant tumor with a median overall survival of 4-5 years. Mer tyrosine kinase (MerTK) has been reported to be aberrantly expressed in leukemia, melanoma, and gastric cancer, and plays a pivotal role in the process of oncogenesis. This study assessed the role of MerTK in MCL for the first time. METHODS Immunohistochemistry and western blot were performed to figure out expression of MerTK in MCL. MerTK inhibition by either shRNA or treatment with UNC2250 (a MerTK-selective small molecular inhibitor) was conducted in MCL cell lines. MCL-cell-derived xenograft models were established to evaluate the anti-tumor effects of UNC2250 in vivo. RESULTS MerTK was ectopically expressed in four of six MCL cell lines. Sixty-five of 132 (48.9%) MCL patients showed positive expression of MerTK. MerTK inhibition by either shRNA or treatment with UNC2250 decreased activation of downstream AKT and p38, inhibited proliferation and invasion in MCL cells, and sensitized MCL cells to treatment with vincristine in vitro and doxorubicin in vitro and in vivo. UNC2250 induced G2/M phase arrest and prompted apoptosis in MCL cells, accompanied by increased expression of Bax, cleaved caspase 3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, and decreased expression of Bcl-2, Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL. Moreover, UNC2250 delayed disease progression in MCL-cell-derived xenograft models. CONCLUSIONS Our data prove that ectopic MerTK may be a novel therapeutic target in MCL, and further pre-clinical or even clinical studies of UNC2250 or new MerTK inhibitors are essential and of great significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cunzhen Shi
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Lymphoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142 China
| | - Xiangqun Li
- Beijing Doing Biomedical Technology Co., Ltd, Songyubei Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Xiaogan Wang
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Lymphoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142 China
| | - Ning Ding
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Lymphoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142 China
| | - Lingyan Ping
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Lymphoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142 China
| | - Yunfei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142 China
| | - Lan Mi
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142 China
| | - Yumei Lai
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142 China
| | - Yuqin Song
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Lymphoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142 China
| | - Jun Zhu
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Lymphoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142 China
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31
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Crittenden MR, Baird J, Friedman D, Savage T, Uhde L, Alice A, Cottam B, Young K, Newell P, Nguyen C, Bambina S, Kramer G, Akporiaye E, Malecka A, Jackson A, Gough MJ. Mertk on tumor macrophages is a therapeutic target to prevent tumor recurrence following radiation therapy. Oncotarget 2018; 7:78653-78666. [PMID: 27602953 PMCID: PMC5346667 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation therapy provides a means to kill large numbers of cancer cells in a controlled location resulting in the release of tumor-specific antigens and endogenous adjuvants. However, by activating pathways involved in apoptotic cell recognition and phagocytosis, irradiated cancer cells engender suppressive phenotypes in macrophages. We demonstrate that the macrophage-specific phagocytic receptor, Mertk is upregulated in macrophages in the tumor following radiation therapy. Ligation of Mertk on macrophages results in anti-inflammatory cytokine responses via NF-kB p50 upregulation, which in turn limits tumor control following radiation therapy. We demonstrate that in immunogenic tumors, loss of Mertk is sufficient to permit tumor cure following radiation therapy. However, in poorly immunogenic tumors, TGFβ inhibition is also required to result in tumor cure following radiation therapy. These data demonstrate that Mertk is a highly specific target whose absence permits tumor control in combination with radiation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marka R Crittenden
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA.,The Oregon Clinic, Portland OR, USA
| | - Jason Baird
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - David Friedman
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Talicia Savage
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Lauren Uhde
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Alejandro Alice
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Benjamin Cottam
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Kristina Young
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA.,The Oregon Clinic, Portland OR, USA
| | - Pippa Newell
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA.,Providence Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer Program, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Cynthia Nguyen
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Shelly Bambina
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Gwen Kramer
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Emmanuel Akporiaye
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
| | - Anna Malecka
- Host-Tumour Interactions Group, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Andrew Jackson
- Host-Tumour Interactions Group, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Michael J Gough
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Robert W. Franz Cancer Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland OR, USA
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Abstract
Radiation therapy is primarily a modality to kill cancer cells in the treatment field. It is becoming increasingly clear that radiation therapy can also be used to direct immune responses that have the potential to clear residual local or distant disease outside the treatment field. We believe that cancer cell death is the critical link between these processes. Understanding the handling of dying cancer cells by immune cells in the tumor environment is crucial to facilitate immune responses following radiation therapy. We review the role of the TAM (Tyro3 Axl Mertk) group of receptor tyrosine kinases and their role following radiation-induced cancer cell death in the tumor environment.
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33
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Nomura K, Vilalta A, Allendorf DH, Hornik TC, Brown GC. Activated Microglia Desialylate and Phagocytose Cells via Neuraminidase, Galectin-3, and Mer Tyrosine Kinase. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 198:4792-4801. [PMID: 28500071 PMCID: PMC5458330 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1502532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Activated microglia can phagocytose dying, stressed, or excess neurons and synapses via the phagocytic receptor Mer tyrosine kinase (MerTK). Galectin-3 (Gal-3) can cross-link surface glycoproteins by binding galactose residues that are normally hidden below terminal sialic acid residues. Gal-3 was recently reported to opsonize cells via activating MerTK. We found that LPS-activated BV-2 microglia rapidly released Gal-3, which was blocked by calcineurin inhibitors. Gal-3 bound to MerTK on microglia and to stressed PC12 (neuron-like) cells, and it increased microglial phagocytosis of PC12 cells or primary neurons, which was blocked by inhibition of MerTK. LPS-activated microglia exhibited a sialidase activity that desialylated PC12 cells and could be inhibited by Tamiflu, a neuraminidase (sialidase) inhibitor. Sialidase treatment of PC12 cells enabled Gal-3 to bind and opsonize the live cells for phagocytosis by microglia. LPS-induced microglial phagocytosis of PC12 was prevented by small interfering RNA knockdown of Gal-3 in microglia, lactose inhibition of Gal-3 binding, inhibition of neuraminidase with Tamiflu, or inhibition of MerTK by UNC569. LPS-induced phagocytosis of primary neurons by primary microglia was also blocked by inhibition of MerTK. We conclude that activated microglia release Gal-3 and a neuraminidase that desialylates microglial and PC12 surfaces, enabling Gal-3 binding to PC12 cells and their phagocytosis via MerTK. Thus, Gal-3 acts as an opsonin of desialylated surfaces, and inflammatory loss of neurons or synapses may potentially be blocked by inhibiting neuraminidases, Gal-3, or MerTK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Nomura
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Vilalta
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
| | - David H Allendorf
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
| | - Tamara C Hornik
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
| | - Guy C Brown
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
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Davra V, Kimani SG, Calianese D, Birge RB. Ligand Activation of TAM Family Receptors-Implications for Tumor Biology and Therapeutic Response. Cancers (Basel) 2016; 8:cancers8120107. [PMID: 27916840 PMCID: PMC5187505 DOI: 10.3390/cancers8120107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2016] [Revised: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The TAM family of receptors (i.e., Tyro3, Axl, and Mertk), and their ligands Growth arrest specific factor 6 (Gas6) and Protein S (Pros1) contribute to several oncogenic processes, such as cell survival, invasion, migration, chemo-resistance, and metastasis, whereby expression often correlates with poor clinical outcomes. In recent years, there has been great interest in the study of TAM receptors in cancer, stemming both from their roles as oncogenic signaling receptors, as well as their roles in tumor immunology. As a result, several classes of TAM inhibitors that include small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, decoy receptors, as well as novel strategies to target TAM ligands are being developed. This paper will review the biology of TAM receptors and their ligands with a focus on cancer, as well as evidence-based data for the continued pursuit of TAM/Gas6 inhibitors in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viralkumar Davra
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
| | - Stanley G Kimani
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
| | - David Calianese
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
| | - Raymond B Birge
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
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35
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Targeting the TAM Receptors in Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2016; 8:cancers8110101. [PMID: 27834816 PMCID: PMC5126761 DOI: 10.3390/cancers8110101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted inhibition of members of the TAM (TYRO-3, AXL, MERTK) family of receptor tyrosine kinases has recently been investigated as a novel strategy for treatment of hematologic malignancies. The physiologic functions of the TAM receptors in innate immune control, natural killer (NK) cell differentiation, efferocytosis, clearance of apoptotic debris, and hemostasis have previously been described and more recent data implicate TAM kinases as important regulators of erythropoiesis and megakaryopoiesis. The TAM receptors are aberrantly or ectopically expressed in many hematologic malignancies including acute myeloid leukemia, B- and T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and multiple myeloma. TAM receptors contribute to leukemic phenotypes through activation of pro-survival signaling pathways and interplay with other oncogenic proteins such as FLT3, LYN, and FGFR3. The TAM receptors also contribute to resistance to both cytotoxic chemotherapeutics and targeted agents, making them attractive therapeutic targets. A number of translational strategies for TAM inhibition are in development, including small molecule inhibitors, ligand traps, and monoclonal antibodies. Emerging areas of research include modulation of TAM receptors to enhance anti-tumor immunity, potential roles for TYRO-3 in leukemogenesis, and the function of the bone marrow microenvironment in mediating resistance to TAM inhibition.
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Petta S, Valenti L, Marra F, Grimaudo S, Tripodo C, Bugianesi E, Cammà C, Cappon A, Di Marco V, Di Maira G, Dongiovanni P, Rametta R, Gulino A, Mozzi E, Orlando E, Maggioni M, Pipitone RM, Fargion S, Craxì A. MERTK rs4374383 polymorphism affects the severity of fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. J Hepatol 2016; 64:682-90. [PMID: 26596542 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIM Homozygosity for a common non-coding rs4374383 G>A polymorphism in MERTK (myeloid-epithelial-reproductive tyrosine kinase) has been associated with the protection against fibrosis progression in chronic hepatitis C. The main study objective was to assess whether MERTK AA genotype influences liver fibrosis, and secondarily MERTK expression in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We also investigated whether MERTK is expressed in human hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and in murine models of fibrogenesis. METHODS We considered 533 consecutive patients who underwent liver biopsy for suspected non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) without severe obesity from two Italian cohorts. As controls, we evaluated 158 patients with normal liver enzymes and without metabolic disturbances. MERTK rs4374383 genotype was assessed by 5'-nuclease assays. MERTK expression was analysed in mouse models of fibrosis, and the effect of the MERTK ligand GAS6 were investigated in human HSC. RESULTS Clinically significant fibrosis (stage F2-F4) was observed in 19% of patients with MERTK AA compared to 30% in those with MERTK GG/GA (OR 0.43, CI 0.21-0.88, p=0.02; adjusted for centre, and genetic, clinical-metabolic and histological variables). The protective rs4374383 AA genotype was associated with lower MERTK hepatic expression. MERTK was overexpressed in the liver of NAFLD patients with F2-F4 fibrosis and in in vivo models of fibrogenesis. Furthermore, exposure of cultured human HSC to the MERTK ligand GAS6, increased cell migration and induced procollagen expression. These effects were counteracted by inhibition of MERTK activity, which also resulted in apoptotic death of HSC. CONCLUSIONS The rs4374383 AA genotype, associated with lower intrahepatic expression of MERTK, is protective against F2-F4 fibrosis in patients with NAFLD. The mechanism may involve modulation of HSC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Petta
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy.
| | - Luca Valenti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Marra
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Italy
| | | | - Claudio Tripodo
- Cattedra di Anatomia Patologica, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bugianesi
- Division of Gastro-Hepatology, Department of Medical Sciences, San Giovanni Battista Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Calogero Cammà
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Cappon
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Italy
| | - Vito Di Marco
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Maira
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Italy
| | - Paola Dongiovanni
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Raffaela Rametta
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Mozzi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Emanuele Orlando
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Marco Maggioni
- Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Fargion
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Antonio Craxì
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy
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Axl and Mer Receptor Tyrosine Kinases: Distinct and Nonoverlapping Roles in Inflammation and Cancer? ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 930:113-32. [PMID: 27558819 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-39406-0_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinases Axl and Mer subserve the process of termination of proinflammatory signaling and have key roles in both the resolution of inflammation and restoration of homeostasis. Axl functions prominently under conditions of tissue stress or in response to infection, whereas Mer has a major role in maintenance of homeostasis within tissues. Distinct patterns of expression of Axl and Mer underlie their clearly defined functional roles during the initiation and progression of inflammation. Axl and Mer are expressed by tumor cells and by infiltrating inflammatory cells and the regulation of cellular function via Axl and Mer signaling is also important for tumorigenesis, tumor progression, and metastasis. In this review, we consider the divergent functions of Axl and Mer in the context of inflammatory processes within tumors and the implications for development of therapeutic agents targeting these receptors.
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Cummings CT, Linger RMA, Cohen RA, Sather S, Kirkpatrick GD, Davies KD, DeRyckere D, Earp HS, Graham DK. Mer590, a novel monoclonal antibody targeting MER receptor tyrosine kinase, decreases colony formation and increases chemosensitivity in non-small cell lung cancer. Oncotarget 2015; 5:10434-45. [PMID: 25372020 PMCID: PMC4279384 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.2142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The successes of targeted therapeutics against EGFR and ALK in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have demonstrated the substantial survival gains made possible by precision therapy. However, the majority of patients do not have tumors with genetic alterations responsive to these therapies, and therefore identification of new targets is needed. Our laboratory previously identified MER receptor tyrosine kinase as one such potential target. We now report our findings targeting MER with a clinically translatable agent – Mer590, a monoclonal antibody specific for MER. Mer590 rapidly and robustly reduced surface and total MER levels in multiple cell lines. Treatment reduced surface MER levels by 87%, and this effect was maximal within four hours. Total MER levels were also dramatically reduced, and this persisted for at least seven days. Mechanistically, MER down-regulation was mediated by receptor internalization and degradation, leading to inhibition of downstream signaling through STAT6, AKT, and ERK1/2. Functionally, this resulted in increased apoptosis, increased chemosensitivity to carboplatin, and decreased colony formation. In addition to carboplatin, Mer590 interacted cooperatively with shRNA-mediated MER inhibition to augment apoptosis. These data demonstrate that MER inhibition can be achieved with a monoclonal antibody in NSCLC. Optimization toward a clinically available anti-MER antibody is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher T Cummings
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Rachel M A Linger
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA. Department of Biomedical Sciences, Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Parker, CO, USA
| | - Rebecca A Cohen
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Susan Sather
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Gregory D Kirkpatrick
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kurtis D Davies
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - H Shelton Earp
- Department of Medicine, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA. Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Douglas K Graham
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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39
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Cummings CT, Zhang W, Davies KD, Kirkpatrick GD, Zhang D, DeRyckere D, Wang X, Frye SV, Earp HS, Graham DK. Small Molecule Inhibition of MERTK Is Efficacious in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Models Independent of Driver Oncogene Status. Mol Cancer Ther 2015; 14:2014-22. [PMID: 26162689 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-15-0116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been transformed by targeted therapies directed against molecular aberrations specifically activated within an individual patient's tumor. However, such therapies are currently only available against a small number of such aberrations, and new targets and therapeutics are needed. Our laboratory has previously identified the MERTK receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) as a potential drug target in multiple cancer types, including NSCLC. We have recently developed UNC2025--the first-in-class small molecule inhibitor targeting MERTK with pharmacokinetic properties sufficient for clinical translation. Here, we utilize this compound to further validate the important emerging biologic functions of MERTK in lung cancer pathogenesis, to establish that MERTK can be effectively targeted by a clinically translatable agent, and to demonstrate that inhibition of MERTK is a valid treatment strategy in a wide variety of NSCLC lines independent of their driver oncogene status, including in lines with an EGFR mutation, a KRAS/NRAS mutation, an RTK fusion, or another or unknown driver oncogene. Biochemically, we report the selectivity of UNC2025 for MERTK, and its inhibition of oncogenic downstream signaling. Functionally, we demonstrate that UNC2025 induces apoptosis of MERTK-dependent NSCLC cell lines, while decreasing colony formation in vitro and tumor xenograft growth in vivo in murine models. These findings provide further evidence for the importance of MERTK in NSCLC, and demonstrate that MERTK inhibition by UNC2025 is a feasible, clinically relevant treatment strategy in a wide variety of NSCLC subtypes, which warrants further investigation in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher T Cummings
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Weihe Zhang
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery and Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Kurtis D Davies
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Gregory D Kirkpatrick
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Dehui Zhang
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery and Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery and Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Stephen V Frye
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery and Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Department of Medicine, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - H Shelton Earp
- Department of Medicine, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Douglas K Graham
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado.
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Lee-Sherick AB, Zhang W, Menachof KK, Hill AA, Rinella S, Kirkpatrick G, Page LS, Stashko MA, Jordan CT, Wei Q, Liu J, Zhang D, DeRyckere D, Wang X, Frye S, Earp HS, Graham DK. Efficacy of a Mer and Flt3 tyrosine kinase small molecule inhibitor, UNC1666, in acute myeloid leukemia. Oncotarget 2015; 6:6722-36. [PMID: 25762638 PMCID: PMC4466645 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Mer and Flt3 receptor tyrosine kinases have been implicated as therapeutic targets in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In this manuscript we describe UNC1666, a novel ATP-competitive small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which potently diminishes Mer and Flt3 phosphorylation in AML. Treatment with UNC1666 mediated biochemical and functional effects in AML cell lines expressing Mer or Flt3 internal tandem duplication (ITD), including decreased phosphorylation of Mer, Flt3 and downstream effectors Stat, Akt and Erk, induction of apoptosis in up to 98% of cells, and reduction of colony formation by greater than 90%, compared to treatment with vehicle. These effects were dose-dependent, with inhibition of downstream signaling and functional effects correlating with the degree of Mer or Flt3 kinase inhibition. Treatment of primary AML patient samples expressing Mer and/or Flt3-ITD with UNC1666 also inhibited Mer and Flt3 intracellular signaling, induced apoptosis, and inhibited colony formation. In summary, UNC1666 is a novel potent small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor that decreases oncogenic signaling and myeloblast survival, thereby validating dual Mer/Flt3 inhibition as an attractive treatment strategy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Weihe Zhang
- University of North Carolina, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Amanda A. Hill
- University of Colorado, Department of Pediatrics, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sean Rinella
- University of Colorado, Department of Pediatrics, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Lauren S. Page
- University of Colorado, Department of Pediatrics, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Michael A. Stashko
- University of North Carolina, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Craig T. Jordan
- University of Colorado, Department of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Qi Wei
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Department of Pathology, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jing Liu
- University of North Carolina, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Dehui Zhang
- University of North Carolina, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Xiaodong Wang
- University of North Carolina, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Stephen Frye
- University of North Carolina, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - H. Shelton Earp
- University of North Carolina, Department of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Vaught DB, Stanford JC, Cook RS. Efferocytosis creates a tumor microenvironment supportive of tumor survival and metastasis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 2. [PMID: 29264372 DOI: 10.14800/ccm.666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Programmed cell death, or apoptosis, occurs in nearly all tissues of all multi-cellular organisms. In order to avoid leakage of intracellular contents, which could generate tissue damaging inflammation, apoptotic cells are cleared from tissues by phagocytes, which then dispatch the engulfed dying cell through the lysosomal pathway. Phagocytic clearance of apoptotic cells is referred to as efferocytosis. One key feature of efferocytosis is the production and release of wound healing cytokines by the phagocyte, which acts to resolve inflammation, and promote tissue repair. Phagocytic engulfment of apoptotic cells coupled with cytokine modulation aimed at immune suppression ensures that physiological programmed cell death does not induce inflammation and tissue damage. However, cytokines involved in wound healing and immune suppression are notorious for their role in the tumor microenvironment, increasing tumor cell motility and promoting evasion of anti-tumor immunity. Therefore, current and future studies aimed at targeting important players of efferocytosis should reveal new and efficacious therapeutic approaches for limiting cancer progression and relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Vaught
- Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232 USA
| | - Jamie C Stanford
- Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232 USA
| | - Rebecca S Cook
- Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232 USA.,Department of Breast Cancer Research Program Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232 USA
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Bernsmeier C, Pop OT, Singanayagam A, Triantafyllou E, Patel VC, Weston CJ, Curbishley S, Sadiq F, Vergis N, Khamri W, Bernal W, Auzinger G, Heneghan M, Ma Y, Jassem W, Heaton ND, Adams DH, Quaglia A, Thursz MR, Wendon J, Antoniades CG. Patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure have increased numbers of regulatory immune cells expressing the receptor tyrosine kinase MERTK. Gastroenterology 2015; 148:603-615.e14. [PMID: 25479139 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2014.11.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Revised: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Characteristics of decompensated cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) include susceptibility to infection, immuneparesis, and monocyte dysfunction. MER receptor tyrosine kinase (MERTK) is expressed by monocytes and macrophages and contributes to down-regulation of innate immune responses. We investigated whether MERTK expression is altered on monocytes from patients with liver failure. METHODS We analyzed blood and liver samples collected from patients admitted to the liver intensive therapy unit at King's College Hospital in London from December 2012 through July 2014. Patients had either ACLF (n = 41), acute decompensation of cirrhosis without ACLF (n = 9), cirrhosis without decompensation (n = 17), or acute liver failure (n = 23). We also analyzed samples from healthy individuals (controls, n = 29). We used flow cytometry to determine the level of innate immune function, and associated the findings with disease severity. We developed an assay to measure recruitment and migration of immune cells from the tissue parenchyma. Immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy were used to determine levels of MERTK in bone marrow, liver, and lymph node tissues. We performed immunophenotype analyses and measured the production of tumor necrosis factor and interleukin 6 and intracellular killing of Escherichia coli by monocytes and peritoneal macrophages incubated with lipopolysaccharide, with or without an inhibitor of MERTK (UNC569). RESULTS The number of monocytes and macrophages that expressed MERTK was greatly increased in the circulation, livers, and lymph nodes of patients with ACLF, compared with patients with stable cirrhosis and controls. MERTK expression (mean fluorescence intensity) correlated with the severity of hepatic and extrahepatic disease and systemic inflammatory responses. Based on immunophenotype, migration, and functional analyses, MERTK-expressing monocytes migrate across the endothelia to localize into tissue sites and regional lymph nodes. Expression of MERTK reduced the response of cultured monocytes to lipopolysaccharide; the addition of UNC569 restored production of inflammatory cytokines in response to lipopolysaccharide. CONCLUSIONS Patients with ACLF have increased numbers of immunoregulatory monocytes and macrophages that express MERTK and suppress the innate immune response to microbes. The number of these cells correlates with disease severity and the inflammatory response. MERTK inhibitors restore production of inflammatory cytokines by immune cells from patients with ACLF, and might be developed to increase the innate immune response in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Bernsmeier
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Oltin T Pop
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Arjuna Singanayagam
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Evangelos Triantafyllou
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom; Centre for Liver Research and National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Unit, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Vishal C Patel
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher J Weston
- Centre for Liver Research and National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Unit, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart Curbishley
- Centre for Liver Research and National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Unit, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Fouzia Sadiq
- Section of Hepatology, St. Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Nikhil Vergis
- Section of Hepatology, St. Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Wafa Khamri
- Section of Hepatology, St. Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - William Bernal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Georg Auzinger
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Heneghan
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Yun Ma
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Wayel Jassem
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel D Heaton
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - David H Adams
- Centre for Liver Research and National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Unit, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Alberto Quaglia
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R Thursz
- Section of Hepatology, St. Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Julia Wendon
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Charalambos G Antoniades
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, King's College London, United Kingdom; Centre for Liver Research and National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Unit, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom; Section of Hepatology, St. Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, United Kingdom.
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Mer tyrosine kinase promotes the survival of t(1;19)-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in the central nervous system (CNS). Blood 2015; 125:820-30. [DOI: 10.1182/blood-2014-06-583062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Key Points
Mer mediates quiescence and chemotherapy resistance in a CNS coculture model and causes CNS infiltration in immunodeficient mice. Mer expression correlates with CNS positivity upon initial diagnosis in t(1;19)-positive pediatric ALL patients.
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44
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Graham DK, DeRyckere D, Davies KD, Earp HS. The TAM family: phosphatidylserine sensing receptor tyrosine kinases gone awry in cancer. Nat Rev Cancer 2014; 14:769-85. [PMID: 25568918 DOI: 10.1038/nrc3847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 516] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The TYRO3, AXL (also known as UFO) and MERTK (TAM) family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are aberrantly expressed in multiple haematological and epithelial malignancies. Rather than functioning as oncogenic drivers, their induction in tumour cells predominately promotes survival, chemoresistance and motility. The unique mode of maximal activation of this RTK family requires an extracellular lipid–protein complex. For example, the protein ligand, growth arrest-specific protein 6 (GAS6), binds to phosphatidylserine (PtdSer) that is externalized on apoptotic cell membranes, which activates MERTK on macrophages. This triggers engulfment of apoptotic material and subsequent anti-inflammatory macrophage polarization. In tumours, autocrine and paracrine ligands and apoptotic cells are abundant, which provide a survival signal to the tumour cell and favour an anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive microenvironment. Thus, TAM kinase inhibition could stimulate antitumour immunity, reduce tumour cell survival, enhance chemosensitivity and diminish metastatic potential.
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45
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Messoussi A, Peyronnet L, Feneyrolles C, Chevé G, Bougrin K, Yasri A. Structural elucidation of the DFG-Asp in and DFG-Asp out states of TAM kinases and insight into the selectivity of their inhibitors. Molecules 2014; 19:16223-39. [PMID: 25310149 PMCID: PMC6271404 DOI: 10.3390/molecules191016223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Structural elucidation of the active (DFG-Asp in) and inactive (DFG-Asp out) states of the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases is required for future development of TAM inhibitors as drugs. Herein we report a computational study on each of the three TAM members Tyro-3, Axl and Mer. DFG-Asp in and DFG-Asp out homology models of each one were built based on the X-ray structure of c-Met kinase, an enzyme with a closely related sequence. Structural validation and in silico screening enabled identification of critical amino acids for ligand binding within the active site of each DFG-Asp in and DFG-Asp out model. The position and nature of amino acids that differ among Tyro-3, Axl and Mer, and the potential role of these residues in the design of selective TAM ligands, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdellah Messoussi
- OriBase Pharma, Parc Euromedecine, Cap Gamma, 1682, rue de la Valsière, 34189 Montpellier, France.
| | - Lucile Peyronnet
- OriBase Pharma, Parc Euromedecine, Cap Gamma, 1682, rue de la Valsière, 34189 Montpellier, France.
| | - Clémence Feneyrolles
- OriBase Pharma, Parc Euromedecine, Cap Gamma, 1682, rue de la Valsière, 34189 Montpellier, France.
| | - Gwénaël Chevé
- OriBase Pharma, Parc Euromedecine, Cap Gamma, 1682, rue de la Valsière, 34189 Montpellier, France.
| | - Khalid Bougrin
- Laboratoire de Chimie des Plantes et de Synthèse Organique et Bioorganique, URAC23, Université Mohammed V, Faculté des Sciences B.P., 1014 Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Aziz Yasri
- OriBase Pharma, Parc Euromedecine, Cap Gamma, 1682, rue de la Valsière, 34189 Montpellier, France.
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Waizenegger JS, Ben-Batalla I, Weinhold N, Meissner T, Wroblewski M, Janning M, Riecken K, Binder M, Atanackovic D, Taipaleenmaeki H, Schewe D, Sawall S, Gensch V, Cubas-Cordova M, Seckinger A, Fiedler W, Hesse E, Kröger N, Fehse B, Hose D, Klein B, Raab MS, Pantel K, Bokemeyer C, Loges S. Role of Growth arrest-specific gene 6-Mer axis in multiple myeloma. Leukemia 2014; 29:696-704. [PMID: 25102945 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2014.236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2014] [Revised: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma is a mostly incurable malignancy characterized by the expansion of a malignant plasma cell (PC) clone in the human bone marrow (BM). Myeloma cells closely interact with the BM stroma, which secretes soluble factors that foster myeloma progression and therapy resistance. Growth arrest-specific gene 6 (Gas6) is produced by BM-derived stroma cells and can promote malignancy. However, the role of Gas6 and its receptors Axl, Tyro3 and Mer (TAM receptors) in myeloma is unknown. We therefore investigated their expression in myeloma cell lines and in the BM of myeloma patients and healthy donors. Gas6 showed increased expression in sorted BMPCs of myeloma patients compared with healthy controls. The fraction of Mer(+) BMPCs was increased in myeloma patients in comparison with healthy controls whereas Axl and Tyro3 were not expressed by BMPCs in the majority of patients. Downregulation of Gas6 and Mer inhibited the proliferation of different myeloma cell lines, whereas knocking down Axl or Tyro3 had no effect. Inhibition of the Gas6 receptor Mer or therapeutic targeting of Gas6 by warfarin reduced myeloma burden and improved survival in a systemic model of myeloma. Thus, the Gas6-Mer axis represents a novel candidate for therapeutic intervention in this incurable malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Waizenegger
- 1] Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany [2] Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - I Ben-Batalla
- 1] Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany [2] Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - N Weinhold
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - T Meissner
- Department of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - M Wroblewski
- 1] Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany [2] Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - M Janning
- 1] Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany [2] Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - K Riecken
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - M Binder
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - D Atanackovic
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - H Taipaleenmaeki
- Heisenberg-Group for Molecular Skeletal Biology, Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - D Schewe
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - S Sawall
- 1] Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany [2] Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - V Gensch
- 1] Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany [2] Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - M Cubas-Cordova
- 1] Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany [2] Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - A Seckinger
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - W Fiedler
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - E Hesse
- Heisenberg-Group for Molecular Skeletal Biology, Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - N Kröger
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - B Fehse
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - D Hose
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - B Klein
- Institute of Research in Biotherapy, University Hospital of Montpellier (CHU), Montpellier, France
| | - M S Raab
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - K Pantel
- Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - C Bokemeyer
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - S Loges
- 1] Department of Hematology and Oncology, BMT with Section of Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum, University Comprehensive Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany [2] Department of Tumor Biology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Squiban B, Frazer JK. Danio rerio: Small Fish Making a Big Splash in Leukemia. CURRENT PATHOBIOLOGY REPORTS 2014; 2:61-73. [PMID: 26269780 DOI: 10.1007/s40139-014-0041-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are widely used for developmental biology studies. In the past decade, D. rerio have become an important oncology model as well. Leukemia is one type of cancer where zebrafish are particularly valuable. As vertebrates, fish have great anatomic and biologic similarity to humans, including their hematopoietic and immune systems. As an experimental platform, D. rerio offer many advantages that mammalian models lack. These include their ease of genetic manipulation, capacity for imaging, and suitability for large-scale phenotypic and drug screens. In this review, we present examples of these strategies and others to illustrate how zebrafish have been and can be used to study leukemia. Besides appraising the techniques researchers apply and introducing the leukemia models they have created, we also highlight recent and exciting discoveries made using D. rerio with an eye to where the field is likely headed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Squiban
- Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 941 Stanton L. Young Blvd., BSEB 229, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - J Kimble Frazer
- Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 941 Stanton L. Young Blvd., BSEB 224, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
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