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Nipun VB, Amin KA. Recent Advances in Protein Kinase CK2, a Potential Therapeutic Target in Cancer. RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY 2022; 48:919-931. [DOI: 10.1134/s1068162022050144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- V. B. Nipun
- Cancer Research Center, Shantou University Medical Collage, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, PR China
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal university, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - K. A. Amin
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal university, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
- Basic and Applied Scientific Research Center, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal university, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
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2
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CSNK2 in cancer: pathophysiology and translational applications. Br J Cancer 2022; 126:994-1003. [PMID: 34773100 PMCID: PMC8980014 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01616-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase CSNK2 (CK2) is a pleiotropic serine/threonine kinase frequently dysregulated in solid and hematologic malignancies. To consolidate a wide range of biological and clinically oriented data from this unique kinase in cancer, this systematic review summarises existing knowledge from in vitro, in vivo and pre-clinical studies on CSNK2 across 24 different human cancer types. CSNK2 mRNA transcripts, protein levels and activity were found to be routinely upregulated in cancer, and commonly identified phosphotargets included AKT, STAT3, RELA, PTEN and TP53. Phenotypically, it frequently influenced evasion of apoptosis, enhancement of proliferation, cell invasion/metastasis and cell cycle control. Clinically, it held prognostic significance across 14 different cancers, and its inhibition in xenograft experiments resulted in a positive treatment response in 12. In conjunction with commentary on preliminary studies of CSNK2 inhibitors in humans, this review harmonises an extensive body of CSNK2 data in cancer and reinforces its emergence as an attractive target for cancer therapy. Continuing to investigate CSNK2 will be crucial to advancing our understanding of CSNK2 biology, and offers the promise of important new discoveries scientifically and clinically.
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3
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Targeting CK2 in cancer: a valuable strategy or a waste of time? Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:325. [PMID: 34716311 PMCID: PMC8555718 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00717-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
CK2 is a protein kinase involved in several human diseases (ranging from neurological and cardiovascular diseases to autoimmune disorders, diabetes, and infections, including COVID-19), but its best-known implications are in cancer, where it is considered a pharmacological target. Several CK2 inhibitors are available and clinical trials are underway in different cancer types. Recently, the suitability of CK2 as a broad anticancer target has been questioned by the finding that a newly developed compound, named SGC-CK2-1, which is more selective than any other known CK2 inhibitor, is poorly effective in reducing cell growth in different cancer lines, prompting the conclusion that the anticancer efficacy of CX-4945, the commonly used clinical-grade CK2 inhibitor, is to be attributed to its off-target effects. Here we perform a detailed scrutiny of published studies on CK2 targeting and a more in-depth analysis of the available data on SGC-CK2-1 vs. CX-4945 efficacy, providing a different perspective about the actual reliance of cancer cells on CK2. Collectively taken, our arguments would indicate that the pretended dispensability of CK2 in cancer is far from having been proved and warn against premature conclusions, which could discourage ongoing investigations on a potentially valuable drug target.
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Wilmas KM, Nguyen QB, Patel J, Silapunt S, Migden MR. Treatment of advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: a Mohs surgery and dermatologic oncology perspective. Future Oncol 2021; 17:4971-4982. [PMID: 34608809 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2021-0901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Locally advanced or metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma no longer amenable to surgical resection or primary radiation therapy requires an alternative approach to treatment. Until 2018, management consisted of limited systemic chemotherapies, which carried marginal clinical benefit. The introduction of immunotherapy with anti-PD-1 antibodies resulted in alternative treatment options for advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with substantial antitumor activity, durable response and acceptable safety profile. The field of immunotherapeutics continues to expand with adjuvant, neoadjuvant and intralesional studies currently in progress. Herein, the authors discuss their approach for the treatment of advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma from the perspective of a Mohs surgeon and a dermatologic oncologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M Wilmas
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Quoc-Bao Nguyen
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jigar Patel
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sirunya Silapunt
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael R Migden
- Departments of Dermatology & Head & Neck Surgery, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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CX-4945 and siRNA-Mediated Knockdown of CK2 Improves Cisplatin Response in HPV(+) and HPV(-) HNSCC Cell Lines. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9050571. [PMID: 34070147 PMCID: PMC8158385 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9050571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) can be categorized into human papillomavirus (HPV) positive or negative disease. Elevated protein kinase CK2 level and activity have been historically observed in HNSCC cells. Previous studies on CK2 in HNSCC did not generally include consideration of HPV(+) and HPV(−) status. Here, we investigated the response of HPV(+) and HPV(−) HNSCC cells to CK2 targeting using CX-4945 or siRNA downregulation combined with cisplatin treatment. HNSCC cell lines were examined for CK2 expression levels and activity and response to CX-4945, with and without cisplatin. CK2 levels and NFκB p65-related activity were high in HPV(+) HNSCC cells relative to HPV(−) HNSCC cells. Treatment with CX-4945 decreased viability and cisplatin IC50 in all cell lines. Targeting of CK2 increased tumor suppressor protein levels for p21 and PDCD4 in most instances. Further study is needed to understand the role of CK2 in HPV(+) and HPV(−) HNSCC and to determine how incorporation of the CK2-targeted inhibitor CX-4945 could improve cisplatin response in HNSCC.
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Amôr NG, Buzo RF, Ortiz RC, Lopes NM, Saito LM, Mackenzie IC, Rodini CO. In vitro and in vivo characterization of cancer stem cell subpopulations in oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Oral Pathol Med 2020; 50:52-59. [PMID: 32816395 DOI: 10.1111/jop.13101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite advances in cancer diagnosis and therapeutics, the overall 5-year survival rate of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains low. Tumor formation, progression, recurrence, and chemo-resistance are associated with the presence of cancer stem cells (CSC) that show phenotypic heterogeneity, but how they influence tumor behavior remains poorly understood. We aimed to describe how two CSC phenotypes from an OSCC cell line, CD44High ESAHigh (Epi-CSC) and CD44High ESALow (EMT-CSC), behave in vitro and in vivo. METHODS In vitro behavior of FACS-sorted Epi-CSC and EMT-CSC from OSCC cells was characterized by their ability to form colonies, migrate, proliferate, and to invade a solid matrix. In vivo experiments were conducted in immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) mice by orthotopic xenografting of FACS-sorted OSCC subpopulations. RESULTS In vitro, the Epi-CSC phenotype was more proliferative and generated more holoclones than the EMT phenotype. On the other hand, EMT-CSC migrate and invaded more than Epi-CSC cells in 3D culture, suggesting the CSC phenotype affects tumor cell behavior. When inoculated orthotopically into the tongues of immunodeficient mice, both subpopulations generated OSCC, but EMT-CSC formed fewer and smaller tumors. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that while cells in the Epi-CSC form the subpopulation that enables tumor growth, the EMT-CSC are related to migration and invasion. Clinically, this may reflect the importance of Epi-CSC for tumorigenesis and of the EMT-CSC for metastasis and highlights that variation in the proportion of CSC phenotypes from patient to patient may be relevant to the design of individual treatment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nádia Ghinelli Amôr
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Fonseca Buzo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru, Brazil
| | - Rafael Carneiro Ortiz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru, Brazil
| | - Nathália Martins Lopes
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru, Brazil
| | - Luciana Mieli Saito
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru, Brazil
| | - Ian Campbell Mackenzie
- Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Camila Oliveira Rodini
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru, Brazil
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CK2 Pro-Survival Role in Prostate Cancer Is Mediated via Maintenance and Promotion of Androgen Receptor and NFκB p65 Expression. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:ph12020089. [PMID: 31197122 PMCID: PMC6631211 DOI: 10.3390/ph12020089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The prosurvival protein kinase CK2, androgen receptor (AR), and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) interact in the function of prostate cells, and there is evidence of crosstalk between these signals in the pathobiology of prostate cancer (PCa). As CK2 is elevated in PCa, and AR and NFκB are involved in the development and progression of prostate cancer, we investigated their interaction in benign and malignant prostate cells in the presence of altered CK2 expression. Our results show that elevation of CK2 levels caused increased levels of AR and NFκB p65 in prostate cells of different phenotypes. Analysis of TCGA PCa data indicated that AR and CK2α RNA expression are strongly correlated. Small molecule inhibition or molecular down-regulation of CK2 caused reduction in AR mRNA expression and protein levels in PCa cells and in orthotopic xenograft tumors by various pathways. Among these, regulation of AR protein stability plays a unifying role in CK2 maintenance of AR protein levels. Our results show induction of various endoplasmic reticulum stress signals after CK2 inhibition, which may play a role in the PCa cell death response. Of note, CK2 inhibition caused loss of cell viability in both parental and enzalutamide-resistant castrate-resistant PCa cells. The present work elucidates the specific link of CK2 to the pathogenesis of PCa in association with AR and NFκB expression; further, the observation that inhibition of CK2 can exert a growth inhibitory effect on therapy-resistant PCa cells emphasizes the potential utility of CK2 inhibition in patients who are on enzalutamide treatment for advanced cancer.
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Lian H, Su M, Zhu Y, Zhou Y, Soomro SH, Fu H. Protein Kinase CK2, a Potential Therapeutic Target in Carcinoma Management. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2019; 20:23-32. [PMID: 30677865 PMCID: PMC6485562 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2019.20.1.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Protein kinase CK2 (formerly known as casein kinase 2) is a highly conserved serine/ threonine kinase
overexpressed in various human carcinomas and its high expression often correlates with poor prognosis. CK2 protein
is localized in the nucleus of many tumor cells and correlates with clinical features in many cases. Increased expression
of CK2 in mice results in the development of various types of carcinomas (both solids and blood related tumors, such
as (breast carcinoma, lymphoma, etc), which reveals its carcinogenic properties. CK2 plays essential roles in many key
biological processes related to carcinoma, including cell apoptosis, DNA damage responses and cell cycle regulation.
CK2 has become a potential anti-carcinoma target. Various CK2 inhibitors have been developed with anti-neoplastic
properties against a variety of carcinomas. Some CK2 inhibitors have showed good results in in vitro and pre-clinical
models, and have even entered in clinical trials. This article will review effects of CK2 and its inhibitors on common
carcinomas in in vitro and pre-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiwei Lian
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R, China.
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Deepa P, Thirumeignanam D, Kolandaivel P. An overview about the impact of hinge region towards the anticancer binding affinity of the Ck2 ligands: a quantum chemical analysis. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2018; 37:3859-3876. [DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2018.1533498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- P. Deepa
- Department of Physics, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - D. Thirumeignanam
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India
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Ahmed K, Kren BT, Abedin MJ, Vogel RI, Shaughnessy DP, Nacusi L, Korman VL, Li Y, Dehm SM, Zimmerman CL, Niehans GA, Unger GM, Trembley JH. CK2 targeted RNAi therapeutic delivered via malignant cell-directed tenfibgen nanocapsule: dose and molecular mechanisms of response in xenograft prostate tumors. Oncotarget 2018; 7:61789-61805. [PMID: 27557516 PMCID: PMC5308691 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
CK2, a protein serine/threonine kinase, promotes cell proliferation and suppresses cell death. This essential-for-survival signal demonstrates elevated expression and activity in all cancers examined, and is considered an attractive target for cancer therapy. Here, we present data on the efficacy of a tenfibgen (TBG) coated nanocapsule which delivers its cargo of siRNA (siCK2) or single stranded RNA/DNA oligomers (RNAi-CK2) simultaneously targeting CK2α and α' catalytic subunits. Intravenous administration of TBG-siCK2 or TBG-RNAi-CK2 resulted in significant xenograft tumor reduction at low doses in PC3-LN4 and 22Rv1 models of prostate cancer. Malignant cell uptake and specificity in vivo was verified by FACS analysis and immunofluorescent detection of nanocapsules and PCR detection of released oligomers. Dose response was concordant with CK2αα' RNA transcript levels and the tumors demonstrated changes in CK2 protein and in markers of proliferation and cell death. Therapeutic response corresponded to expression levels for argonaute and GW proteins, which function in oligomer processing and translational repression. No toxicity was detected in non-tumor tissues or by serum chemistry. Tumor specific delivery of anti-CK2 RNAi via the TBG nanoencapsulation technology warrants further consideration of translational potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Ahmed
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Department of Urology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
| | - Betsy T Kren
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
| | - Md Joynal Abedin
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
| | - Rachel I Vogel
- Department of Obstretrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
| | - Daniel P Shaughnessy
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
| | | | | | - Yingming Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
| | - Scott M Dehm
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Department of Urology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
| | - Cheryl L Zimmerman
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
| | - Gloria A Niehans
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
| | | | - Janeen H Trembley
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A
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Cannon CM, Trembley JH, Kren BT, Unger GM, O'Sullivan MG, Cornax I, Modiano JF, Ahmed K. Evaluation of protein kinase CK2 as a therapeutic target for squamous cell carcinoma of cats. Am J Vet Res 2017; 78:946-953. [PMID: 28738012 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.78.8.946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate protein kinase CK2 (CK2) expression in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of cats and to examine effects of CK2 downregulation on in vitro apoptosis and viability in SCC. SAMPLE Biopsy specimens of oral mucosa and testis and blood samples from clinically normal cats, biopsy specimens of oral SCC from cats, and feline SCC (SCCF1) and mammary gland carcinoma (K12) cell lines. PROCEDURES Immunohistochemical labeling for CK2α was performed on biopsy specimens. Sequences of the CK2α subunit gene and CK2α' subunit gene in feline blood and feline cancer cell lines were determined by use of PCR and reverse-transcription PCR assays followed by direct Sanger sequencing. Specific small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) were developed for feline CK2α and CK2α'. The SCCF1 cells were treated with siRNA and assessed 72 hours later for CK2α and CK2α' expression and markers of apoptosis (via western blot analysis) and for viability (via 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-5-[3-carboxymethoxyphenyl]-2-[4-sulfophenyl]-2H-tetrazolium assays). RESULTS CK2α was expressed in all feline oral mucosa samples and 7 of 8 oral SCC samples. Expression of CK2α and CK2α' was successfully downregulated in SCCF1 cells by use of siRNAs, which resulted in decreased viability and induction of apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE In this study, CK2 appeared to be a promising therapeutic target for SCCs of cats. A possible treatment strategy for SCCs of cats would be RNA interference that targets CK2.
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Cannon CM, Trembley JH, Kren BT, Unger GM, O'Sullivan MG, Cornax I, Modiano JF, Ahmed K. Therapeutic Targeting of Protein Kinase CK2 Gene Expression in Feline Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Naturally Occurring Large-Animal Model of Head and Neck Cancer. HUM GENE THER CL DEV 2017; 28:80-86. [PMID: 28335614 DOI: 10.1089/humc.2017.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase CK2 (CK2) is a highly promising target for cancer therapy, and anti-CK2 gene expression therapy has shown effectiveness in rodent models of human head and neck cancer (HNC). To date, there has been no large-animal model of cancer in which to further explore anti-CK2 therapies. Feline oral squamous cell carcinoma (FOSCC) has been proposed as a large-animal model for human HNC, and we have previously shown that CK2 is a rational target in FOSCC. Here we have tested the hypothesis that a novel tenfibgen-coated tumor-specific nanocapsule carrying RNA interference (RNAi) oligonucleotides targeting feline CK2α and CK2α' (TBG-RNAi-fCK2αα') would be safe in cats with FOSCC; assessment of target inhibition and tumor response were secondary aims. Nine cats were enrolled and treated at two dose levels in a 3+3 escalation. Cats received a total of six treatments with TBG-RNAi-fCK2αα'. Pre- and posttreatment, tumor and normal oral mucosa biopsies were collected to assess CK2 expression, using immunohistochemistry (IHC) preparations evaluated by light microscopy. Toxicity and tumor response were assessed on the basis of standard criteria. The most common adverse events were grade 1 or 2 weight loss and anorexia. Grade 3 tissue necrosis was seen in association with tumor response in one cat, asymptomatic grade 4 elevations in aspartate transaminase and creatine phosphokinase in one cat, and asymptomatic grade 3 hypokalemia in one cat. Of six cats with evaluable biopsies, two had a reduction in CK2 IHC score in tumors after treatment. Four cats had progressive disease during the study period, three had stable disease, one had partial response, and response could not be evaluated in one cat. We conclude that the drug appeared safe and that there is some evidence of efficacy in FOSCC. Further investigation regarding dosing, schedule, target modulation, toxicity, and efficacy in a larger group of cats is warranted and may inform future clinical studies in human head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire M Cannon
- 1 Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota , St. Paul, Minnesota.,2 Animal Cancer Care and Research Program, University of Minnesota , St. Paul, Minnesota.,3 Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee , Knoxville, Tennessee
| | - Janeen H Trembley
- 4 Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,5 Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,6 Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Betsy T Kren
- 5 Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,6 Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Gretchen M Unger
- 5 Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,7 GeneSegues Inc. , Minnetonka, Minnesota
| | - M Gerard O'Sullivan
- 2 Animal Cancer Care and Research Program, University of Minnesota , St. Paul, Minnesota.,6 Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,8 Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota , St. Paul, Minnesota
| | - Ingrid Cornax
- 2 Animal Cancer Care and Research Program, University of Minnesota , St. Paul, Minnesota.,6 Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Jaime F Modiano
- 1 Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota , St. Paul, Minnesota.,2 Animal Cancer Care and Research Program, University of Minnesota , St. Paul, Minnesota.,4 Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,6 Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Khalil Ahmed
- 4 Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,5 Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,6 Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Trembley JH, Kren BT, Abedin MJ, Vogel RI, Cannon CM, Unger GM, Ahmed K. CK2 Molecular Targeting-Tumor Cell-Specific Delivery of RNAi in Various Models of Cancer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2017; 10:E25. [PMID: 28230733 PMCID: PMC5374429 DOI: 10.3390/ph10010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase CK2 demonstrates increased protein expression relative to non-transformed cells in the majority of cancers that have been examined. The elevated levels of CK2 are involved in promoting not only continued proliferation of cancer cells but also their resistance to cell death; thus, CK2 has emerged as a plausible target for cancer therapy. Our focus has been to target CK2 catalytic subunits at the molecular level using RNA interference (RNAi) strategies to achieve their downregulation. The delivery of oligonucleotide therapeutic agents warrants that they are protected and are delivered specifically to cancer cells. The latter is particularly important since CK2 is a ubiquitous signal that is essential for survival. To achieve these goals, we have developed a nanocapsule that has the properties of delivering an anti-CK2 RNAi therapeutic cargo, in a protected manner, specifically to cancer cells. Tenfibgen (TBG) is used as the ligand to target tenascin-C receptors, which are elevated in cancer cells. This strategy is effective for inhibiting growth and inducing death in several types of xenograft tumors, and the nanocapsule elicits no safety concerns in animals. Further investigation of this therapeutic approach for its translation is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janeen H Trembley
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Betsy T Kren
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Md Joynal Abedin
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Rachel I Vogel
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Claire M Cannon
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | | | - Khalil Ahmed
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
- Department of Urology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Chua MMJ, Ortega CE, Sheikh A, Lee M, Abdul-Rassoul H, Hartshorn KL, Dominguez I. CK2 in Cancer: Cellular and Biochemical Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Target. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2017; 10:E18. [PMID: 28134850 PMCID: PMC5374422 DOI: 10.3390/ph10010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
CK2 genes are overexpressed in many human cancers, and most often overexpression is associated with worse prognosis. Site-specific expression in mice leads to cancer development (e.g., breast, lymphoma) indicating the oncogenic nature of CK2. CK2 is involved in many key aspects of cancer including inhibition of apoptosis, modulation of signaling pathways, DNA damage response, and cell cycle regulation. A number of CK2 inhibitors are now available and have been shown to have activity against various cancers in vitro and in pre-clinical models. Some of these inhibitors are now undergoing exploration in clinical trials as well. In this review, we will examine some of the major cancers in which CK2 inhibition has promise based on in vitro and pre-clinical studies, the proposed cellular and signaling mechanisms of anti-cancer activity by CK2 inhibitors, and the current or recent clinical trials using CK2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M J Chua
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Charina E Ortega
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Ayesha Sheikh
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Migi Lee
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Hussein Abdul-Rassoul
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Kevan L Hartshorn
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Isabel Dominguez
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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15
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Takahashi K, Setoguchi T, Tsuru A, Saitoh Y, Nagano S, Ishidou Y, Maeda S, Furukawa T, Komiya S. Inhibition of casein kinase 2 prevents growth of human osteosarcoma. Oncol Rep 2016; 37:1141-1147. [PMID: 27959425 DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.5310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
High-dose chemotherapy and surgical treatment have improved the prognosis of osteosarcoma. However, more than 20% of patients with osteosarcoma still have a poor prognosis. We investigated the expression and function of casein kinase 2 (CK2) in osteosarcoma growth. We then examined the effects of CX-4945, a CK2 inhibitor, on osteosarcoma growth in vitro and in vivo to apply our findings to the clinical setting. We examined the expression of CK2α and CK2β by western blot analysis, and performed WST-1 assays using CK2α and CK2β siRNA or CX-4945. Flow cytometry and western blot analyses were performed to evaluate apoptotic cell death. Xenograft models were used to examine the effect of CX-4945 in vivo. Western blot analysis revealed upregulation of CK2α and CK2β in human osteosarcoma cell lines compared with human osteoblast cells or mesenchymal stem cells. WST assay showed that knockdown of CK2α or CK2β by siRNA inhibited the proliferation of human osteosarcoma cells. Treatment with 3 µM of CX-4945 inhibited osteosarcoma cell proliferation; however, the same concentration of CX-4945 did not affect the proliferation of human mesenchymal stem cells. Additionally, treatment with CX-4945 inhibited the proliferation of human osteosarcoma cells in a dose-dependent manner. Western blot and flow cytometry analyses showed that treatment with CX-4945 promoted apoptotic death of osteosarcoma cells. The xenograft model showed that treatment with CX-4945 significantly prevented osteosarcoma growth in vivo compared with control vehicle treatment. Our findings indicate that CK2 may be an attractive therapeutic target for treating osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kengo Takahashi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Takao Setoguchi
- The Near-Future Locomotor Organ Medicine Creation Course (Kusunoki Kai), Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Arisa Tsuru
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Saitoh
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nagano
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Ishidou
- Department of Medical Joint Materials, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Shingo Maeda
- Department of Medical Joint Materials, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiko Furukawa
- Center for the Research of Advanced Diagnosis and Therapy of Cancer, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Setsuro Komiya
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
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16
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Chou ST, Patil R, Galstyan A, Gangalum PR, Cavenee WK, Furnari FB, Ljubimov VA, Chesnokova A, Kramerov AA, Ding H, Falahatian V, Mashouf L, Fox I, Black KL, Holler E, Ljubimov AV, Ljubimova JY. Simultaneous blockade of interacting CK2 and EGFR pathways by tumor-targeting nanobioconjugates increases therapeutic efficacy against glioblastoma multiforme. J Control Release 2016; 244:14-23. [PMID: 27825958 PMCID: PMC5308909 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Revised: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remains the deadliest brain tumor in adults. GBM tumors are also notorious for drug and radiation resistance. To inhibit GBMs more effectively, polymalic acid-based blood-brain barrier crossing nanobioconjugates were synthesized that are delivered to the cytoplasm of cancer cells and specifically inhibit the master regulator serine/threonine protein kinase CK2 and the wild-type/mutated epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/EGFRvIII), which are overexpressed in gliomas according to The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) GBM database. Two xenogeneic mouse models bearing intracranial human GBMs from cell lines LN229 and U87MG that expressed both CK2 and EGFR at different levels were used. Simultaneous knockdown of CK2α and EGFR/EGFRvIII suppressed their downstream prosurvival signaling. Treatment also markedly reduced the expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), a negative regulator of cytotoxic lymphocytes. Downregulation of CK2 and EGFR also caused deactivation of heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) co-chaperone Cdc37, which may suppress the activity of key cellular kinases. Inhibition of either target was associated with downregulation of the other target as well, which may underlie the increased efficacy of the dual nanobioconjugate that is directed against both CK2 and EGFR. Importantly, the single nanodrugs, and especially the dual nanodrug, markedly suppressed the expression of the cancer stem cell markers c-Myc, CD133, and nestin, which could contribute to the efficacy of the treatments. In both tumor models, the nanobioconjugates significantly increased (up to 2-fold) animal survival compared with the PBS-treated control group. The versatile nanobioconjugates developed in this study, with the abilities of anti-cancer drug delivery across biobarriers and the inhibition of key tumor regulators, offer a promising nanotherapeutic approach to treat GBMs, and to potentially prevent drug resistance and retard the recurrence of brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szu-Ting Chou
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Rameshwar Patil
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Anna Galstyan
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Pallavi R Gangalum
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Webster K Cavenee
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Frank B Furnari
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Vladimir A Ljubimov
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alexandra Chesnokova
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Andrei A Kramerov
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hui Ding
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Vida Falahatian
- Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Biostatistic and Bioinformatics Clinical Research Training Program ( CRTP )
| | | | - Irving Fox
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Keith L Black
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Eggehard Holler
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alexander V Ljubimov
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Julia Y Ljubimova
- Nanomedicine Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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17
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Qaiser F, Trembley JH, Sadiq S, Muhammad I, Younis R, Hashmi SN, Murtaza B, Rector TS, Naveed AK, Ahmed K. Examination of CK2α and NF-κB p65 expression in human benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer tissues. Mol Cell Biochem 2016; 420:43-51. [PMID: 27435858 PMCID: PMC6668611 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-016-2765-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Protein kinase CK2 plays a critical role in cell growth, proliferation, and suppression of cell death. CK2 is overexpressed, especially in the nuclear compartment, in the majority of cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa). CK2-mediated activation of transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65 is a key step in cellular proliferation, resulting in translocation of NF-κB p65 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. As CK2 expression and activity are also elevated in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), we sought to increase the knowledge of CK2 function in benign and malignant prostate by examination of the relationships between nuclear CK2 and nuclear NF-κB p65 protein expression. The expression level and localization of CK2α and NF-κB p65 proteins in PCa and BPH tissue specimens was determined. Nuclear CK2α and NF-κB p65 protein levels are significantly higher in PCa compared with BPH, and these proteins are positively correlated with each other in both diseases. Nuclear NF-κB p65 levels correlated with Ki-67 or with cytoplasmic NF-κB p65 expression in BPH, but not in PCa. The findings provide information that combined analysis of CK2α and NF-κB p65 expression in prostate specimens relates to the disease status. Increased nuclear NF-κB p65 expression levels in PCa specifically related to nuclear CK2α levels, indicating a possible CK2-dependent relationship in malignancy. In contrast, nuclear NF-κB p65 protein levels related to both Ki-67 and cytoplasmic NF-κB p65 levels exclusively in BPH, suggesting a potential separate impact for NF-κB p65 function in proliferation for benign disease as opposed to malignant disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Qaiser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Army Medical College, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Janeen H Trembley
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry Research Laboratory (151) Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sarah Sadiq
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Army Medical College, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Iqbal Muhammad
- Department of Histopathology, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Rubina Younis
- Department of Histopathology, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Shoaib Naiyar Hashmi
- Department of Histopathology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Badar Murtaza
- Armed Forces Institute of Urology, Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Thomas S Rector
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry Research Laboratory (151) Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Abdul Khaliq Naveed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Army Medical College, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Al-Mizan Campus, Riphah International University, 274 Peshawar Road, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Khalil Ahmed
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry Research Laboratory (151) Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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18
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The conventional term 'casein kinase' (CK) denotes three classes of kinases - CK1, CK2 and Golgi-CK (G-CK)/Fam20C (family with sequence similarity 20, member C) - sharing the ability to phoshorylate casein in vitro, but otherwise unrelated to each other. All CKs have been reported to be implicated in human diseases, and reviews individually dealing with the druggability of CK1 and CK2 are available. Our aim is to provide a comparative analysis of the three classes of CKs as therapeutic targets. AREAS COVERED CK2 is the CK for which implication in neoplasia is best documented, with the survival of cancer cells often relying on its overexpression. An ample variety of cell-permeable CK2 inhibitors have been developed, with a couple of these now in clinical trials. Isoform-specific CK1 inhibitors that are expected to play a beneficial role in oncology and neurodegeneration have been also developed. In contrast, the pathogenic potential of G-CK/Fam20C is caused by its loss of function. Activators of Fam20C, notably sphingolipids and their analogs, may prove beneficial in this respect. EXPERT OPINION Optimization of CK2 and CK1 inhibitors will prove useful to develop new therapeutic strategies for treating cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, while the design of potent activators of G-CK/Fam20C will provide a new tool in the fields of bio-mineralization and hypophosphatemic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Cozza
- a 1 University of Padova, Department of Biomedical Sciences , Via Ugo Bassi 58B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo A Pinna
- a 1 University of Padova, Department of Biomedical Sciences , Via Ugo Bassi 58B, 35131 Padova, Italy .,b 2 University of Padova, Department of Biomedical Sciences and CNR Institute of Neurosciences , Padova, Italy ;
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19
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Cannon CM. Cats, Cancer and Comparative Oncology. Vet Sci 2015; 2:111-126. [PMID: 29061935 PMCID: PMC5644631 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci2030111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Revised: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Naturally occurring tumors in dogs are well-established models for several human cancers. Domestic cats share many of the benefits of dogs as a model (spontaneous cancers developing in an immunocompetent animal sharing the same environment as humans, shorter lifespan allowing more rapid trial completion and data collection, lack of standard of care for many cancers allowing evaluation of therapies in treatment-naïve populations), but have not been utilized to the same degree in the One Medicine approach to cancer. There are both challenges and opportunities in feline compared to canine models. This review will discuss three specific tumor types where cats may offer insights into human cancers. Feline oral squamous cell carcinoma is common, shares both clinical and molecular features with human head and neck cancer and is an attractive model for evaluating new therapies. Feline mammary tumors are usually malignant and aggressive, with the ‘triple-negative’ phenotype being more common than in humans, offering an enriched population in which to examine potential targets and treatments. Finally, although there is not an exact corollary in humans, feline injection site sarcoma may be a model for inflammation-driven tumorigenesis, offering opportunities for studying variations in individual susceptibility as well as preventative and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire M Cannon
- University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, 2407 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA.
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20
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Kren BT, Unger GM, Abedin MJ, Vogel RI, Henzler CM, Ahmed K, Trembley JH. Preclinical evaluation of cyclin dependent kinase 11 and casein kinase 2 survival kinases as RNA interference targets for triple negative breast cancer therapy. Breast Cancer Res 2015; 17:19. [PMID: 25837326 PMCID: PMC4344788 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-015-0524-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Targeted therapies for aggressive breast cancers like triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) are needed. The use of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to disable expression of survival genes provides a tool for killing these cancer cells. Cyclin dependent kinase 11 (CDK11) is a survival protein kinase that regulates RNA transcription, splicing and mitosis. Casein kinase 2 (CK2) is a survival protein kinase that suppresses cancer cell death. Eliminating the expression of these genes has potential therapeutic utility for breast cancer. Methods Expression levels of CDK11 and CK2 mRNAs and associated proteins were examined in breast cancer cell lines and tissue arrays. RNA expression levels of CDC2L1, CDC2L2, CCNL1, CCNL2, CSNK2A1, CSNK2A2, and CSNK2B genes in breast cancer subtypes were analyzed. Effects following transfection of siRNAs against CDK11 and CK2 in cultured cells were examined by viability and clonal survival assays and by RNA and protein measures. Uptake of tenfibgen (TBG) nanocapsules by TNBC cells was analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. TBG nanocapsules delivered siRNAs targeting CDK11 or CK2 in mice carrying TNBC xenograft tumors. Transcript cleavage and response parameters were evaluated. Results We found strong CDK11 and CK2 mRNA and protein expression in most human breast cancer cells. Immunohistochemical analysis of TNBC patient tissues showed 100% of tumors stained positive for CDK11 with high nuclear intensity compared to normal tissue. The Cancer Genome Atlas analysis comparing basal to other breast cancer subtypes and to normal breast revealed statistically significant differences. Down-regulation of CDK11 and/or CK2 in breast cancer cells caused significant loss of cell viability and clonal survival, reduced relevant mRNA and protein expression, and induced cell death changes. TBG nanocapsules were taken up by TNBC cells both in culture and in xenograft tumors. Treatment with TBG- siRNA to CDK11 or TBG- siRNA to CK2αα’ nanocapsules induced appropriate cleavage of CDK11 and CK2α transcripts in TNBC tumors, and caused MDA-MB-231 tumor reduction, loss of proliferation, and decreased expression of targeted genes. Conclusions CDK11 and CK2 expression are individually essential for breast cancer cell survival, including TNBC. These genes serve as promising new targets for therapeutic development in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betsy T Kren
- Research Service (151), Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417 USA ; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street, SE, Minneapolis, MN USA ; Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE Room 130, Minneapolis, MN 55414 USA
| | | | - Md J Abedin
- Research Service (151), Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417 USA ; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street, SE, Minneapolis, MN USA
| | - Rachel I Vogel
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE Room 130, Minneapolis, MN 55414 USA
| | - Christine M Henzler
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street, SE, Minneapolis, MN USA ; Minnesota Supercomputing Institute, University of Minnesota, 117 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
| | - Khalil Ahmed
- Research Service (151), Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417 USA ; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street, SE, Minneapolis, MN USA ; Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE Room 130, Minneapolis, MN 55414 USA ; Department of Urology, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
| | - Janeen H Trembley
- Research Service (151), Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417 USA ; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street, SE, Minneapolis, MN USA ; Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE Room 130, Minneapolis, MN 55414 USA
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21
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Jia JW, Liu AQ, Wang Y, Zhao F, Jiao LL, Tan J. Evaluation of NIN/RPN12 binding protein inhibits proliferation and growth in human renal cancer cells. Tumour Biol 2014; 36:1803-10. [PMID: 25420906 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-014-2783-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The targeted delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) to specific tumor tissues and tumor cells remains as one of the key challenges in the development of RNA interference as a therapeutic application. The ribosome assembly factor NIN/RPN12 binding protein (NOB1) has been suggested to be essential for processing of the 20S pre-rRNA to the mature 18S rRNA, and is also reported to participate in proteasome biogenesis. However, it is unclear whether NOB1 is involved in tumor cells growth. The aim of this study was to determine whether the suppression of lentivirus mediated NOB1 siRNA inhibits the growth of human clean cell carcinoma (ccRCC) cells, further focused on NOB1 as a possible therapeutic target for renal cell carcinoma treatment. NOB1 deletion that caused significant decline in cell proliferation was observed in both 786-O and ACHN cell lines as investigated by MTT assay. Further, the number and size of the colonies formed were also significantly reduced in the absence of NOB1. Moreover, NOB1 gene knockdown arrested the cell cycle and inhibited cell cycle-related protein expression. The Kaplan-Meier survival curves revealed that low NOB1 expression was associated with poor prognosis in ccRCC patients. Collectively, these results indicate that NOB1 plays an essential role in renal cell cancer cell proliferation, and its gene expression could be a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-wei Jia
- Department of Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
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22
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Trembley JH, Unger GM, Korman VL, Abedin MJ, Nacusi LP, Vogel RI, Slaton JW, Kren BT, Ahmed K. Tenfibgen ligand nanoencapsulation delivers bi-functional anti-CK2 RNAi oligomer to key sites for prostate cancer targeting using human xenograft tumors in mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109970. [PMID: 25333839 PMCID: PMC4198192 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Protected and specific delivery of nucleic acids to malignant cells remains a highly desirable approach for cancer therapy. Here we present data on the physical and chemical characteristics, mechanism of action, and pilot therapeutic efficacy of a tenfibgen (TBG)-shell nanocapsule technology for tumor-directed delivery of single stranded DNA/RNA chimeric oligomers targeting CK2αα' to xenograft tumors in mice. The sub-50 nm size TBG nanocapsule (s50-TBG) is a slightly negatively charged, uniform particle of 15 - 20 nm size which confers protection to the nucleic acid cargo. The DNA/RNA chimeric oligomer (RNAi-CK2) functions to decrease CK2αα' expression levels via both siRNA and antisense mechanisms. Systemic delivery of s50-TBG-RNAi-CK2 specifically targets malignant cells, including tumor cells in bone, and at low doses reduces size and CK2-related signals in orthotopic primary and metastatic xenograft prostate cancer tumors. In conclusion, the s50-TBG nanoencapsulation technology together with the chimeric oligomer targeting CK2αα' offer significant promise for systemic treatment of prostate malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janeen H. Trembley
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | | | - Vicci L. Korman
- GeneSegues Inc., Chaska, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Md. Joynal Abedin
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Lucas P. Nacusi
- GeneSegues Inc., Chaska, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Rachel I. Vogel
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Joel W. Slaton
- Department of Urology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Betsy T. Kren
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Khalil Ahmed
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Urology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
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23
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Trembley JH, Unger GM, Gomez OC, Abedin J, Korman VL, Vogel RI, Niehans G, Kren BT, Ahmed K. Tenfibgen-DMAT Nanocapsule Delivers CK2 Inhibitor DMAT to Prostate Cancer Xenograft Tumors Causing Inhibition of Cell Proliferation. MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR PHARMACOLOGY 2014; 6:15-25. [PMID: 25893034 PMCID: PMC4397568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
CK2 is a master regulator protein kinase which demonstrates heightened expression in diverse cancer types and is considered a promising target for therapy. Given its ubiquitous expression and potent influence on cell survival, cancer cell-directed targeting of the CK2 signal is an important factor for development of an anti-CK2 therapeutic. We previously reported on the malignant cell specificity and effect on CK2 signaling of a tenfibgen (TBG) based nanocapsule for delivery of the CK2 small molecule inhibitor 2-dimethylamino-4,5,6,7-tetrabromo-1H-benzimidazole (DMAT) in cultured prostate cancer cells. Here we tested the ability of TBG-DMAT to affect the growth of prostate xenograft tumors in mice. Our results show that treatment of PC3-LN4 xenograft tumors with TBG-DMAT caused loss of proliferative Ki-67 signal as well as Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB) expression in the tumors. Further, the TBG-DMAT nanocapsule was detected in tumors and not in liver or testis. In conclusion, TBG-based nanocapsule delivery of anti-CK2 small molecule drugs holds significant promise for treatment of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janeen H. Trembley
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | | | - Omar Cespedes Gomez
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | - J. Abedin
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | | | | | - Gloria Niehans
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis
| | - Betsy T. Kren
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | - Khalil Ahmed
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
- Department of Urology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
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