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He J, Qiu Z, Fan J, Xie X, Sheng Q, Sui X. Drug tolerant persister cell plasticity in cancer: A revolutionary strategy for more effective anticancer therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:209. [PMID: 39138145 PMCID: PMC11322379 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01891-4] [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: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-genetic mechanisms have recently emerged as important drivers of anticancer drug resistance. Among these, the drug tolerant persister (DTP) cell phenotype is attracting more and more attention and giving a predominant non-genetic role in cancer therapy resistance. The DTP phenotype is characterized by a quiescent or slow-cell-cycle reversible state of the cancer cell subpopulation and inert specialization to stimuli, which tolerates anticancer drug exposure to some extent through the interaction of multiple underlying mechanisms and recovering growth and proliferation after drug withdrawal, ultimately leading to treatment resistance and cancer recurrence. Therefore, targeting DTP cells is anticipated to provide new treatment opportunities for cancer patients, although our current knowledge of these DTP cells in treatment resistance remains limited. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the formation characteristics and underlying drug tolerant mechanisms of DTP cells, investigate the potential drugs for DTP (including preclinical drugs, novel use for old drugs, and natural products) based on different medicine models, and discuss the necessity and feasibility of anti-DTP therapy, related application forms, and future issues that will need to be addressed to advance this emerging field towards clinical applications. Nonetheless, understanding the novel functions of DTP cells may enable us to develop new more effective anticancer therapy and improve clinical outcomes for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun He
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Zejing Qiu
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Jingjing Fan
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Xiaohong Xie
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Qinsong Sheng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xinbing Sui
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China.
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China.
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2
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Ju HY, Youn SY, Kang J, Whang MY, Choi YJ, Han MR. Integrated analysis of spatial transcriptomics and CT phenotypes for unveiling the novel molecular characteristics of recurrent and non-recurrent high-grade serous ovarian cancer. Biomark Res 2024; 12:80. [PMID: 39135097 PMCID: PMC11318304 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00632-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), which is known for its heterogeneity, high recurrence rate, and metastasis, is often diagnosed after being dispersed in several sites, with about 80% of patients experiencing recurrence. Despite a better understanding of its metastatic nature, the survival rates of patients with HGSOC remain poor. METHODS Our study utilized spatial transcriptomics (ST) to interpret the tumor microenvironment and computed tomography (CT) to examine spatial characteristics in eight patients with HGSOC divided into recurrent (R) and challenging-to-collect non-recurrent (NR) groups. RESULTS By integrating ST data with public single-cell RNA sequencing data, bulk RNA sequencing data, and CT data, we identified specific cell population enrichments and differentially expressed genes that correlate with CT phenotypes. Importantly, we elucidated that tumor necrosis factor-α signaling via NF-κB, oxidative phosphorylation, G2/M checkpoint, E2F targets, and MYC targets served as an indicator of recurrence (poor prognostic markers), and these pathways were significantly enriched in both the R group and certain CT phenotypes. In addition, we identified numerous prognostic markers indicative of nonrecurrence (good prognostic markers). Downregulated expression of PTGDS was linked to a higher number of seeding sites (≥ 3) in both internal HGSOC samples and public HGSOC TCIA and TCGA samples. Additionally, lower PTGDS expression in the tumor and stromal regions was observed in the R group than in the NR group based on our ST data. Chemotaxis-related markers (CXCL14 and NTN4) and markers associated with immune modulation (DAPL1 and RNASE1) were also found to be good prognostic markers in our ST and radiogenomics analyses. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the potential of radiogenomics, combining CT and ST, for identifying diagnostic and therapeutic targets for HGSOC, marking a step towards personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Yeon Ju
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, 22012, Korea
| | - Seo Yeon Youn
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Korea
| | - Jun Kang
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Korea
| | - Min Yeop Whang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Korea
| | - Youn Jin Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Korea.
- Cancer Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Korea.
| | - Mi-Ryung Han
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, 22012, Korea.
- Institute for New Drug Development, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, 22012, Korea.
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Graham O, Rodriguez J, Abbott R, Lomonosova E, Fashemi B, Drexler R, Grither W, Rodriguez K, Compadre A, Loeb M, Sanders B, Kuroki L, Hagemann AR, McCourt C, Thaker PH, Fuh K, Powell MA, Hagemann IS, Mutch DG, Khabele D, Mullen MM. A toolkit for a modern gynecologic oncology tissue bank. Gynecol Oncol 2024; 189:1-8. [PMID: 38971004 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2024.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Tissue banking procedures have evolved to keep pace with precision medicine, technology, emerging understanding of racial disparities, and regulatory requirements. However, there is little published guidance regarding strategies to create and maintain a successful biorepository. Our objective is to describe the infrastructure and protocols used by our Gynecologic Oncology Tissue Bank. METHODS Our Tissue Bank was founded in 1992. In August 2022, internal funding was used to modernize the Tissue Bank. We hired three full-time employees, implemented universal screening of patients treated by gynecologic oncology faculty, updated consenting protocols, and standardized communication with providers. Tumor tissue, blood derivatives, ascites, and pleural fluid were collected from eligible, consenting patients and processed. Patient-derived cell lines and organoids were generated. For quality control purposes, one formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) sample per tissue site was analyzed by a board-certified pathologist. All samples were labeled and tracked in an OpenSpecimen collection protocol and clinically annotated in a secure database. RESULTS From August 2022 to October 2023, 227 patients (83% white, 15% Black, 1% Asian) were enrolled and 4249 specimens were collected. Adherent cell lines were generated from 15 patients with ovarian cancer and cell suspensions for organoid generation were collected from 46 patients with ovarian cancer. A recharge center was established to self-sustain the Tissue Bank. Samples have been shared with academic and commercial collaborators. CONCLUSIONS Our Tissue Bank has enrolled a large number of diverse patients, collected numerous specimen types, and collaborated widely. The procedures described here provide guidance for other institutions establishing similar resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Graham
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Jeimmy Rodriguez
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Rachel Abbott
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Elena Lomonosova
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Bisiayo Fashemi
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Drexler
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Whitney Grither
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Kevin Rodriguez
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Amanda Compadre
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Megan Loeb
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Brooke Sanders
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Lindsay Kuroki
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Andrea R Hagemann
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Carolyn McCourt
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Premal H Thaker
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Katherine Fuh
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Matthew A Powell
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Ian S Hagemann
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - David G Mutch
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Dineo Khabele
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Mary M Mullen
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, United States of America.
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Yu L, Deng Y, Wang X, Santos C, Davis IJ, Earp HS, Liu P. Co-targeting JAK1/STAT6/GAS6/TAM signaling improves chemotherapy efficacy in Ewing sarcoma. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5292. [PMID: 38906855 PMCID: PMC11192891 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49667-2] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is a pediatric bone and soft tissue tumor treated with chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Despite intensive multimodality therapy, ~50% patients eventually relapse and die of the disease due to chemoresistance. Here, using phospho-profiling, we find Ewing sarcoma cells treated with chemotherapeutic agents activate TAM (TYRO3, AXL, MERTK) kinases to augment Akt and ERK signaling facilitating chemoresistance. Mechanistically, chemotherapy-induced JAK1-SQ phosphorylation releases JAK1 pseudokinase domain inhibition allowing for JAK1 activation. This alternative JAK1 activation mechanism leads to STAT6 nuclear translocation triggering transcription and secretion of the TAM kinase ligand GAS6 with autocrine/paracrine consequences. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of either JAK1 by filgotinib or TAM kinases by UNC2025 sensitizes Ewing sarcoma to chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo. Excitingly, the TAM kinase inhibitor MRX-2843 currently in human clinical trials to treat AML and advanced solid tumors, enhances chemotherapy efficacy to further suppress Ewing sarcoma tumor growth in vivo. Our findings reveal an Ewing sarcoma chemoresistance mechanism with an immediate translational value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Yu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Yu Deng
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Charlene Santos
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Ian J Davis
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Genetics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - H Shelton Earp
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Pengda Liu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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5
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Danielli SG, Wurth J, Morice S, Kisele S, Surdez D, Delattre O, Bode PK, Wachtel M, Schäfer BW. Evaluation of the Role of AXL in Fusion-positive Pediatric Rhabdomyosarcoma Identifies the Small-molecule Inhibitor Bemcentinib (BGB324) as Potent Chemosensitizer. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:864-876. [PMID: 38471796 PMCID: PMC11148551 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a highly aggressive pediatric cancer with features of skeletal muscle differentiation. More than 80% of the high-risk patients ultimately fail to respond to chemotherapy treatment, leading to limited therapeutic options and dismal prognostic rates. The lack of response and subsequent tumor recurrence is driven in part by stem cell-like cells, the tumor subpopulation that is enriched after treatment, and characterized by expression of the AXL receptor tyrosine kinase (AXL). AXL mediates survival, migration, and therapy resistance in several cancer types; however, its function in RMS remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of AXL in RMS tumorigenesis, migration, and chemotherapy response, and whether targeting of AXL with small-molecule inhibitors could potentiate the efficacy of chemotherapy. We show that AXL is expressed in a heterogeneous manner in patient-derived xenografts (PDX), primary cultures and cell line models of RMS, consistent with its stem cell-state selectivity. By generating a CRISPR/Cas9 AXL knock-out and overexpressing models, we show that AXL contributes to the migratory phenotype of RMS, but not to chemotherapy resistance. Instead, pharmacologic blockade with the AXL inhibitors bemcentinib (BGB324), cabozantinib and NPS-1034 rapidly killed RMS cells in an AXL-independent manner and augmented the efficacy of the chemotherapeutics vincristine and cyclophosphamide. In vivo administration of the combination of bemcentinib and vincristine exerted strong antitumoral activity in a rapidly progressing PDX mouse model, significantly reducing tumor burden compared with single-agent treatment. Collectively, our data identify bemcentinib as a promising drug to improve chemotherapy efficacy in patients with RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara G Danielli
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jakob Wurth
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Morice
- Balgrist University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Samanta Kisele
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Didier Surdez
- Balgrist University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich (UZH), Zürich, Switzerland
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, Diversity and Plasticity of Childhood Tumors Laboratory, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Delattre
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, Diversity and Plasticity of Childhood Tumors Laboratory, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Center, Institut Curie Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Peter K Bode
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Marco Wachtel
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Beat W Schäfer
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
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De Rosa L, Di Stasi R, Fusco V, D'Andrea LD. AXL receptor as an emerging molecular target in colorectal cancer. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104005. [PMID: 38685399 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104005] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
AXL receptor tyrosine kinase (AXL) is a receptor tyrosine kinase whose aberrant expression has recently been associated with colorectal cancer (CRC), contributing to tumor growth, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), increased invasiveness, metastatic spreading, and the development of drug resistance. In this review we summarize preclinical data, the majority of which are limited to recent years, convincingly linking the AXL receptor to CRC. These findings support the value of targeting AXL with molecules in drug discovery, offering novel and advanced therapeutic or diagnostic tools for CRC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia De Rosa
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, via P. Castellino, 111 - 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Rossella Di Stasi
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, via P. Castellino, 111 - 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Virginia Fusco
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, via P. Castellino, 111 - 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luca D D'Andrea
- Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche 'G. Natta', CNR, via M. Bianco, 9 - 20131 Milan, Italy.
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7
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Knisely A, Hinchcliff EM, Gardiner E, Rangwala R, Lito K, Fellman B, Yuan Y, Sood AK, Westin SN, Lu KH, Jazaeri AA. Phase 1b study of batiraxcept in combination with durvalumab in patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. iScience 2024; 27:109801. [PMID: 38726365 PMCID: PMC11079458 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109801] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Combining an immune checkpoint inhibitor with batiraxcept (AVB-S6-500), an AXL inhibitor that acts via selective binding to growth arrest-specific protein 6 (GAS6), may improve anti-tumor immunity in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC). This phase 1b trial of durvalumab in combination with escalating doses of batiraxcept enrolled patients with recurrent PROC (NCT04019288). The primary objective was to determine the toxicity profile of the combination. Eleven patients were enrolled on the trial. No dose-limiting toxicities were observed, and no objective responses were noted. Median progression free survival (PFS) was 1.81 months (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.71-2.40), and median overall survival (OS) was 4.53 months (95% CI 2.10-24.74). Batiraxcept effectively reduced serum GAS6 levels at 1-h post-treatment, resulting in trough levels below the limit of detection in all cases but one. In conclusion, the combination of batiraxcept and durvalumab was safe and tolerable but did not demonstrate anti-tumor activity in a heterogenous population of patients with recurrent PROC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Knisely
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Emily M. Hinchcliff
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Kathryn Lito
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bryan Fellman
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ying Yuan
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anil K. Sood
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shannon N. Westin
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Karen H. Lu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Amir A. Jazaeri
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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8
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Wang L, Wang X, Zhu X, Zhong L, Jiang Q, Wang Y, Tang Q, Li Q, Zhang C, Wang H, Zou D. Drug resistance in ovarian cancer: from mechanism to clinical trial. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:66. [PMID: 38539161 PMCID: PMC10976737 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-01967-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of gynecological cancer-related death. Drug resistance is the bottleneck in ovarian cancer treatment. The increasing use of novel drugs in clinical practice poses challenges for the treatment of drug-resistant ovarian cancer. Continuing to classify drug resistance according to drug type without understanding the underlying mechanisms is unsuitable for current clinical practice. We reviewed the literature regarding various drug resistance mechanisms in ovarian cancer and found that the main resistance mechanisms are as follows: abnormalities in transmembrane transport, alterations in DNA damage repair, dysregulation of cancer-associated signaling pathways, and epigenetic modifications. DNA methylation, histone modifications and noncoding RNA activity, three key classes of epigenetic modifications, constitute pivotal mechanisms of drug resistance. One drug can have multiple resistance mechanisms. Moreover, common chemotherapies and targeted drugs may have cross (overlapping) resistance mechanisms. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can interfere with and thus regulate the abovementioned pathways. A subclass of miRNAs, "epi-miRNAs", can modulate epigenetic regulators to impact therapeutic responses. Thus, we also reviewed the regulatory influence of miRNAs on resistance mechanisms. Moreover, we summarized recent phase I/II clinical trials of novel drugs for ovarian cancer based on the abovementioned resistance mechanisms. A multitude of new therapies are under evaluation, and the preliminary results are encouraging. This review provides new insight into the classification of drug resistance mechanisms in ovarian cancer and may facilitate in the successful treatment of resistant ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Xueping Zhu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin Zhong
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingxiu Jiang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Ya Wang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Tang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiaoling Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haixia Wang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China.
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.
| | - Dongling Zou
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.
- Chongqing Specialized Medical Research Center of Ovarian Cancer, Chongqing, China.
- Organoid Transformational Research Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.
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9
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Marquez-Palencia M, Herrera LR, Parida PK, Ghosh S, Kim K, Das NM, Gonzalez-Ericsson PI, Sanders ME, Mobley BC, Diegeler S, Aguilera TA, Peng Y, Lewis CM, Arteaga CL, Hanker AB, Whitehurst AW, Lorens JB, Brekken RA, Davis AJ, Malladi S. AXL/WRNIP1 Mediates Replication Stress Response and Promotes Therapy Resistance and Metachronous Metastasis in HER2+ Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2024; 84:675-687. [PMID: 38190717 PMCID: PMC11221606 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Therapy resistance and metastatic progression are primary causes of cancer-related mortality. Disseminated tumor cells possess adaptive traits that enable them to reprogram their metabolism, maintain stemness, and resist cell death, facilitating their persistence to drive recurrence. The survival of disseminated tumor cells also depends on their ability to modulate replication stress in response to therapy while colonizing inhospitable microenvironments. In this study, we discovered that the nuclear translocation of AXL, a TAM receptor tyrosine kinase, and its interaction with WRNIP1, a DNA replication stress response factor, promotes the survival of HER2+ breast cancer cells that are resistant to HER2-targeted therapy and metastasize to the brain. In preclinical models, knocking down or pharmacologically inhibiting AXL or WRNIP1 attenuated protection of stalled replication forks. Furthermore, deficiency or inhibition of AXL and WRNIP1 also prolonged metastatic latency and delayed relapse. Together, these findings suggest that targeting the replication stress response, which is a shared adaptive mechanism in therapy-resistant and metastasis-initiating cells, could reduce metachronous metastasis and enhance the response to standard-of-care therapies. SIGNIFICANCE Nuclear AXL and WRNIP1 interact and mediate replication stress response, promote therapy resistance, and support metastatic progression, indicating that targeting the AXL/WRNIP1 axis is a potentially viable therapeutic strategy for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Marquez-Palencia
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Luis Reza Herrera
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Pravat Kumar Parida
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Suvranil Ghosh
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Kangsan Kim
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Nikitha M. Das
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Paula I. Gonzalez-Ericsson
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Melinda E. Sanders
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Bret C. Mobley
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Sebastian Diegeler
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Todd A. Aguilera
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Yan Peng
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Cheryl M Lewis
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Carlos L. Arteaga
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Ariella B. Hanker
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | | | - James B Lorens
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers and Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Rolf A Brekken
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery and Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390 USA
| | - Anthony J. Davis
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Srinivas Malladi
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- Lead Contact
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10
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Miao YR, Rankin EB, Giaccia AJ. Therapeutic targeting of the functionally elusive TAM receptor family. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:201-217. [PMID: 38092952 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00846-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
The TAM receptor family of TYRO3, AXL and MERTK regulates tissue and immune homeostasis. Aberrant TAM receptor signalling has been linked to a range of diseases, including cancer, fibrosis and viral infections. Specifically, the dysregulation of TAM receptors can enhance tumour growth and metastasis due to their involvement in multiple oncogenic pathways. For example, TAM receptors have been implicated in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, maintaining the stem cell phenotype, immune modulation, proliferation, angiogenesis and resistance to conventional and targeted therapies. Therapeutically, multiple TAM receptor inhibitors are in preclinical and clinical development for cancers and other indications, with those targeting AXL being the most clinically advanced. Although there has been notable clinical advancement in recent years, challenges persist. This Review aims to provide both biological and clinical insights into the current therapeutic landscape of TAM receptor inhibitors, and evaluates their potential for the treatment of cancer and non-malignant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Rebecca Miao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Erinn B Rankin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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11
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Pei FL, Jia JJ, Lin SH, Chen XX, Wu LZ, Lin ZX, Sun BW, Zeng C. Construction and evaluation of endometriosis diagnostic prediction model and immune infiltration based on efferocytosis-related genes. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 10:1298457. [PMID: 38370978 PMCID: PMC10870152 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1298457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Endometriosis (EM) is a long-lasting inflammatory disease that is difficult to treat and prevent. Existing research indicates the significance of immune infiltration in the progression of EM. Efferocytosis has an important immunomodulatory function. However, research on the identification and clinical significance of efferocytosis-related genes (EFRGs) in EM is sparse. Methods: The EFRDEGs (differentially expressed efferocytosis-related genes) linked to datasets associated with endometriosis were thoroughly examined utilizing the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and GeneCards databases. The construction of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) and transcription factor (TF) regulatory network of EFRDEGs ensued. Subsequently, machine learning techniques including Univariate logistic regression, LASSO, and SVM classification were applied to filter and pinpoint diagnostic biomarkers. To establish and assess the diagnostic model, ROC analysis, multivariate regression analysis, nomogram, and calibration curve were employed. The CIBERSORT algorithm and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) were employed to explore immune cell infiltration, while the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) was utilized for the identification of potential therapeutic drugs for endometriosis. Finally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were utilized to quantify the expression levels of biomarkers in clinical samples of endometriosis. Results: Our findings revealed 13 EFRDEGs associated with EM, and the LASSO and SVM regression model identified six hub genes (ARG2, GAS6, C3, PROS1, CLU, and FGL2). Among these, ARG2, GAS6, and C3 were confirmed as diagnostic biomarkers through multivariate logistic regression analysis. The ROC curve analysis of GSE37837 (AUC = 0.627) and GSE6374 (AUC = 0.635), along with calibration and DCA curve assessments, demonstrated that the nomogram built on these three biomarkers exhibited a commendable predictive capacity for the disease. Notably, the ratio of nine immune cell types exhibited significant differences between eutopic and ectopic endometrial samples, with scRNA-seq highlighting M0 Macrophages, Fibroblasts, and CD8 Tex cells as the cell populations undergoing the most substantial changes in the three biomarkers. Additionally, our study predicted seven potential medications for EM. Finally, the expression levels of the three biomarkers in clinical samples were validated through RT-qPCR and IHC, consistently aligning with the results obtained from the public database. Conclusion: we identified three biomarkers and constructed a diagnostic model for EM in this study, these findings provide valuable insights for subsequent mechanistic research and clinical applications in the field of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Li Pei
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin-Jin Jia
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shu-Hong Lin
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Xin Chen
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Zheng Wu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zeng-Xian Lin
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bo-Wen Sun
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Zeng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Bayanbold K, Singhania M, Fath MA, Searby CC, Stolwijk JM, Henrich JB, Pulliam CF, Schoenfeld JD, Mapuskar KA, Sho S, Caster JM, Allen BG, Buettner GR, Spies M, Goswami PC, Petronek MS, Spitz DR. Depletion of Labile Iron Induces Replication Stress and Enhances Responses to Chemoradiation in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:2005. [PMID: 38001858 PMCID: PMC10669787 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12112005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The intracellular redox-active labile iron pool (LIP) is weakly chelated and available for integration into the iron metalloproteins that are involved in diverse cellular processes, including cancer cell-specific metabolic oxidative stress. Abnormal iron metabolism and elevated LIP levels are linked to the poor survival of lung cancer patients, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Depletion of the LIP in non-small-cell lung cancer cell lines using the doxycycline-inducible overexpression of the ferritin heavy chain (Ft-H) (H1299 and H292), or treatment with deferoxamine (DFO) (H1299 and A549), inhibited cell growth and decreased clonogenic survival. The Ft-H overexpression-induced inhibition of H1299 and H292 cell growth was also accompanied by a significant delay in transit through the S-phase. In addition, both Ft-H overexpression and DFO in H1299 resulted in increased single- and double-strand DNA breaks, supporting the involvement of replication stress in the response to LIP depletion. The Ft-H and DFO treatment also sensitized H1299 to VE-821, an inhibitor of ataxia telangiectasis and Rad2-related (ATR) kinase, highlighting the potential of LIP depletion, combined with DNA damage response modifiers, to alter lung cancer cell responses. In contrast, only DFO treatment effectively reduced the LIP, clonogenic survival, cell growth, and sensitivity to VE-821 in A549 non-small-cell lung cancer cells. Importantly, the Ft-H and DFO sensitized both H1299 and A549 to chemoradiation in vitro, and Ft-H overexpression increased the efficacy of chemoradiation in vivo in H1299. These results support the hypothesis that the depletion of the LIP can induce genomic instability, cell death, and potentiate therapeutic responses to chemoradiation in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaliunaa Bayanbold
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Mekhla Singhania
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Melissa A. Fath
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Charles C. Searby
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Department Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Jeffrey M. Stolwijk
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - John B. Henrich
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Casey F. Pulliam
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Joshua D. Schoenfeld
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Kranti A. Mapuskar
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Sei Sho
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Joseph M. Caster
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Bryan G. Allen
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Garry R. Buettner
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Maria Spies
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Prabhat C. Goswami
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Michael S. Petronek
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
| | - Douglas R. Spitz
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA (M.A.F.); (G.R.B.)
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13
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Qiu H, Shao Z, Wen X, Liu Z, Chen Z, Qu D, Ding X, Zhang L. Efferocytosis: An accomplice of cancer immune escape. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115540. [PMID: 37741255 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115540] [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: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The clearance of apoptotic cells by efferocytes such as macrophages and dendritic cells is termed as "efferocytosis", it plays critical roles in maintaining tissue homeostasis in multicellular organisms. Currently, available studies indicate that efferocytosis-related molecules and pathways are tightly associated with cancer development, metastasis and treatment resistance, efferocytosis also induces an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and assists cancer cells escape from immune surveillance. In this study, we reviewed the underlying mechanisms of efferocytosis in mediating the occurrence of cancer immune escape, and then emphatically summarized the strategies of using efferocytosis as therapeutic target to enhance the anti-tumor efficacies of immune checkpoint inhibitors, hoping to provide powerful evidences for more effective therapeutic regimens of malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Qiu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiying Shao
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhengyang Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ziqin Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Debao Qu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Ding
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Longzhen Zhang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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14
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DeRyckere D, Huelse JM, Earp HS, Graham DK. TAM family kinases as therapeutic targets at the interface of cancer and immunity. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2023; 20:755-779. [PMID: 37667010 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00813-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Novel treatment approaches are needed to overcome innate and acquired mechanisms of resistance to current anticancer therapies in cancer cells and the tumour immune microenvironment. The TAM (TYRO3, AXL and MERTK) family receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are potential therapeutic targets in a wide range of cancers. In cancer cells, TAM RTKs activate signalling pathways that promote cell survival, metastasis and resistance to a variety of chemotherapeutic agents and targeted therapies. TAM RTKs also function in innate immune cells, contributing to various mechanisms that suppress antitumour immunity and promote resistance to immune-checkpoint inhibitors. Therefore, TAM antagonists provide an unprecedented opportunity for both direct and immune-mediated therapeutic activity provided by inhibition of a single target, and are likely to be particularly effective when used in combination with other cancer therapies. To exploit this potential, a variety of agents have been designed to selectively target TAM RTKs, many of which have now entered clinical testing. This Review provides an essential guide to the TAM RTKs for clinicians, including an overview of the rationale for therapeutic targeting of TAM RTKs in cancer cells and the tumour immune microenvironment, a description of the current preclinical and clinical experience with TAM inhibitors, and a perspective on strategies for continued development of TAM-targeted agents for oncology applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah DeRyckere
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Paediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Justus M Huelse
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Paediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 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
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Paediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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15
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Fan J, Yu Y, Yan L, Yuan Y, Sun B, Yang D, Liu N, Guo J, Zhang J, Zhao X. GAS6-based CAR-T cells exhibit potent antitumor activity against pancreatic cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:77. [PMID: 37475048 PMCID: PMC10357739 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01467-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The receptor tyrosine kinases TAM family (TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK) are highly expressed in multiple forms of cancer cells and tumor-associated macrophages and promote the development of cancers including pancreatic tumor. Targeting TAM receptors could be a promising therapeutic option. METHODS We designed a novel CAR based on the extracellular domain of growth arrest-specific protein 6 (GAS6), a natural ligand for all TAM members. The ability of CAR-T to kill pancreatic cancer cells is tested in vitro and in vivo, and the safety is evaluated in mice and nonhuman primate. RESULTS GAS6-CAR-T cells efficiently kill TAM-positive pancreatic cancer cell lines, gemcitabine-resistant cancer cells, and cancer stem-like cells in vitro. GAS6-CAR-T cells also significantly suppressed the growth of PANC1 xenografts and patient-derived xenografts in mice. Furthermore, these CAR-T cells did not induce obvious side effects in nonhuman primate or mice although the CAR was demonstrated to recognize mouse TAM. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that GAS6-CAR-T-cell therapy may be effective for pancreatic cancers with low toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Fan
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Ye Yu
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Lanzhen Yan
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuncang Yuan
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Bin Sun
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Dong Yang
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Nan Liu
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Core Facilities of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Xudong Zhao
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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16
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Pidkovka N, Belkhiri A. Altered expression of AXL receptor tyrosine kinase in gastrointestinal cancers: a promising therapeutic target. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1079041. [PMID: 37469409 PMCID: PMC10353021 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1079041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers that include all cancers of the digestive tract organs are generally associated with obesity, lack of exercising, smoking, poor diet, and heavy alcohol consumption. Treatment of GI cancers typically involves surgery followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation. Unfortunately, intrinsic or acquired resistance to these therapies underscore the need for more effective targeted therapies that have been proven in other malignancies. The aggressive features of GI cancers share distinct signaling pathways that are connected to each other by the overexpression and activation of AXL receptor tyrosine kinase. Several preclinical and clinical studies involving anti-AXL antibodies and small molecule AXL kinase inhibitors to test their efficacy in solid tumors, including GI cancers, have been recently carried out. Therefore, AXL may be a promising therapeutic target for overcoming the shortcomings of standard therapies in GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya Pidkovka
- Department of Health Science, South College, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Abbes Belkhiri
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
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17
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Yeo XH, Sundararajan V, Wu Z, Phua ZJC, Ho YY, Peh KLE, Chiu YC, Tan TZ, Kappei D, Ho YS, Tan DSP, Tam WL, Huang RYJ. The effect of inhibition of receptor tyrosine kinase AXL on DNA damage response in ovarian cancer. Commun Biol 2023; 6:660. [PMID: 37349576 PMCID: PMC10287694 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05045-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
AXL is a receptor tyrosine kinase that is often overexpressed in cancers. It contributes to pathophysiology in cancer progression and therapeutic resistance, making it an emerging therapeutic target. The first-in-class AXL inhibitor bemcentinib (R428/BGB324) has been granted fast track designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in STK11-mutated advanced metastatic non-small cell lung cancer and was also reported to show selective sensitivity towards ovarian cancers (OC) with a Mesenchymal molecular subtype. In this study, we further explored AXL's role in mediating DNA damage responses by using OC as a disease model. AXL inhibition using R428 resulted in the increase of DNA damage with the concurrent upregulation of DNA damage response signalling molecules. Furthermore, AXL inhibition rendered cells more sensitive to the inhibition of ATR, a crucial mediator for replication stress. Combinatory use of AXL and ATR inhibitors showed additive effects in OC. Through SILAC co-immunoprecipitation mass spectrometry, we identified a novel binding partner of AXL, SAM68, whose loss in OC cells harboured phenotypes in DNA damage responses similar to AXL inhibition. In addition, AXL- and SAM68-deficiency or R428 treatment induced elevated levels of cholesterol and upregulated genes in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. There might be a protective role of cholesterol in shielding cancer cells against DNA damage induced by AXL inhibition or SMA68 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Hui Yeo
- Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 60 Biopolis Street, Genome, Singapore, 138672, Republic of Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore
| | - Vignesh Sundararajan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore
| | - Zhengwei Wu
- Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 60 Biopolis Street, Genome, Singapore, 138672, Republic of Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore
| | - Zi Jin Cheryl Phua
- Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 60 Biopolis Street, Genome, Singapore, 138672, Republic of Singapore
| | - Yin Ying Ho
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 20 Biopolis Way, Centros, Singapore, 138668, Republic of Singapore
| | - Kai Lay Esther Peh
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 20 Biopolis Way, Centros, Singapore, 138668, Republic of Singapore
| | - Yi-Chia Chiu
- Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tuan Zea Tan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore
| | - Dennis Kappei
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Republic of Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Ying Swan Ho
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 20 Biopolis Way, Centros, Singapore, 138668, Republic of Singapore
| | - David Shao Peng Tan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore
- Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Wai Leong Tam
- Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 60 Biopolis Street, Genome, Singapore, 138672, Republic of Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Republic of Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Republic of Singapore
| | - Ruby Yun-Ju Huang
- Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore.
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18
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Tang Y, Zang H, Wen Q, Fan S. AXL in cancer: a modulator of drug resistance and therapeutic target. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:148. [PMID: 37328828 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02726-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
AXL is a member of the TAM (TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK) receptor tyrosine kinases family (RTKs), and its abnormal expression has been linked to clinicopathological features and poor prognosis of cancer patients. There is mounting evidence supporting AXL's role in the occurrence and progression of cancer, as well as drug resistance and treatment tolerance. Recent studies revealed that reducing AXL expression can weaken cancer cells' drug resistance, indicating that AXL may be a promising target for anti-cancer drug treatment. This review aims to summarize the AXL's structure, the mechanisms regulating and activating it, and its expression pattern, especially in drug-resistant cancers. Additionally, we will discuss the diverse functions of AXL in mediating cancer drug resistance and the potential of AXL inhibitors in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoxiang Tang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Hongjing Zang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Qiuyuan Wen
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
| | - Songqing Fan
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
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19
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Pantelaiou-Prokaki G, Reinhardt O, Georges NS, Agorku DJ, Hardt O, Prokakis E, Mieczkowska IK, Deppert W, Wegwitz F, Alves F. Basal-like mammary carcinomas stimulate cancer stem cell properties through AXL-signaling to induce chemotherapy resistance. Int J Cancer 2023; 152:1916-1932. [PMID: 36637144 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) is the most aggressive and heterogeneous breast cancer (BC) subtype. Conventional chemotherapies represent next to surgery the most frequently employed treatment options. Unfortunately, resistant tumor phenotypes often develop, resulting in therapeutic failure. To identify the early events occurring upon the first drug application and initiating chemotherapy resistance in BLBC, we leveraged the WAP-T syngeneic mammary carcinoma mouse model and we developed a strategy combining magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS)-based tumor cell enrichment with high-throughput transcriptome analyses. We discovered that chemotherapy induced a massive gene expression reprogramming toward stemness acquisition to tolerate and survive the cytotoxic treatment in vitro and in vivo. Retransplantation experiments revealed that one single cycle of cytotoxic drug combination therapy (Cyclophosphamide, Adriamycin and 5-Fluorouracil) suffices to induce resistant tumor cell phenotypes in vivo. We identified Axl and its ligand Pros1 as highly induced genes driving cancer stem cell (CSC) properties upon chemotherapy in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, from our analysis of BLBC patient datasets, we found that AXL expression is also strongly correlated with CSC-gene signatures, a poor response to conventional therapies and worse survival outcomes in those patients. Finally, we demonstrate that AXL inhibition sensitized BLBC-cells to cytotoxic treatment in vitro. Together, our data support AXL as a promising therapeutic target to optimize the efficiency of conventional cytotoxic therapies in BLBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garyfallia Pantelaiou-Prokaki
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Translational Molecular Imaging, Göttingen, Germany.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Reinhardt
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Translational Molecular Imaging, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nadine S Georges
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - David J Agorku
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, R&D Reagents, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Olaf Hardt
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, R&D Reagents, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Evangelos Prokakis
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Iga K Mieczkowska
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Deppert
- University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Institute for Tumor Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Florian Wegwitz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Frauke Alves
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Translational Molecular Imaging, Göttingen, Germany.,Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Clinic for Hematology and Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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20
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van Biljon L, Fashemi B, Rodriguez J, Graham O, Compadre A, Fuh K, Khabele D, Mullen M. Visualizing DNA Damage Repair Proteins in Patient-Derived Ovarian Cancer Organoids via Immunofluorescence Assays. J Vis Exp 2023:10.3791/64881. [PMID: 36912550 PMCID: PMC10881227 DOI: 10.3791/64881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunofluorescence is one of the most widely used techniques to visualize target antigens with high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for the accurate identification and localization of proteins, glycans, and small molecules. While this technique is well-established in two-dimensional (2D) cell culture, less is known about its use in three-dimensional (3D) cell models. Ovarian cancer organoids are 3D tumor models that recapitulate tumor cell clonal heterogeneity, the tumor microenvironment, and cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Thus, they are superior to cell lines for the evaluation of drug sensitivity and functional biomarkers. Therefore, the ability to utilize immunofluorescence on primary ovarian cancer organoids is extremely beneficial in understanding the biology of this cancer. The current study describes the technique of immunofluorescence to detect DNA damage repair proteins in high-grade serous patient-derived ovarian cancer organoids (PDOs). After exposing the PDOs to ionizing radiation, immunofluorescence is performed on intact organoids to evaluate nuclear proteins as foci. Images are collected using z-stack imaging on confocal microscopy and analyzed using automated foci counting software. The described methods allow for the analysis of temporal and special recruitment of DNA damage repair proteins and colocalization of these proteins with cell-cycle markers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Katherine Fuh
- Washington University in St. Louis; University of California San Francisco
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21
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Tsukamoto S, Sugi NH, Nishibata K, Nakazawa Y, Ito D, Fukushima S, Nakagawa T, Ichikawa K, Kato Y, Kakiuchi D, Goto A, Itoh-Yagi M, Aota T, Inoue S, Yamane Y, Murai N, Azuma H, Nagao S, Sasai K, Akagi T, Imai T, Matsui J, Matsushima T. ER-851, a Novel Selective Inhibitor of AXL, Overcomes Resistance to Antimitotic Drugs. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:12-24. [PMID: 36279567 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Innate and adaptive resistance to cancer therapies, such as chemotherapies, molecularly targeted therapies, and immune-modulating therapies, is a major issue in clinical practice. Subpopulations of tumor cells expressing the receptor tyrosine kinase AXL become enriched after treatment with antimitotic drugs, causing tumor relapse. Elevated AXL expression is closely associated with drug resistance in clinical samples, suggesting that AXL plays a pivotal role in drug resistance. Although several molecules with AXL inhibitory activity have been developed, none have sufficient activity and selectivity to be clinically effective when administered in combination with a cancer therapy. Here, we report a novel small molecule, ER-851, which is a potent and highly selective AXL inhibitor. To investigate resistance mechanisms and identify driving molecules, we conducted a comprehensive gene expression analysis of chemoresistant tumor cells in mouse xenograft models of genetically engineered human lung cancer and human triple-negative breast cancer. Consistent with the effect of AXL knockdown, cotreatment of ER-851 and antimitotic drugs produced an antitumor effect and prolonged relapse-free survival in the mouse xenograft model of human triple-negative breast cancer. Importantly, when orally administered to BALB/c mice, this compound did not induce retinal toxicity, a known side effect of chronic MER inhibition. Together, these data strongly suggest that AXL is a therapeutic target for overcoming drug resistance and that ER-851 is a promising candidate therapeutic agent for use against AXL-expressing antimitotic-resistant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuntaro Tsukamoto
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Naoko Hata Sugi
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kyoko Nishibata
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Youya Nakazawa
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Daisuke Ito
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Sayo Fukushima
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Takayuki Nakagawa
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kenji Ichikawa
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yu Kato
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Dai Kakiuchi
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Aya Goto
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Tomoki Aota
- hhc Data Creation Center, Eisai Co., Ltd., Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Inoue
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Yamane
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Norio Murai
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Azuma
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nagao
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ken Sasai
- KAN Research Institute, Inc., Kobe-shi, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Akagi
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan.,KAN Research Institute, Inc., Kobe-shi, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Toshio Imai
- KAN Research Institute, Inc., Kobe-shi, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Junji Matsui
- Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
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22
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Lee EK, Liu JF. Rational Combinations of PARP Inhibitors with HRD-Inducing Molecularly Targeted Agents. Cancer Treat Res 2023; 186:171-188. [PMID: 37978136 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-30065-3_10] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Cancers with wild-type BRCA, homologous recombination proficiency, or de novo or acquired resistance to PARP inhibition represent a growing population of patients who may benefit from combinatorial PARP inhibitor strategies. We review targeted inhibitors of angiogenesis, epigenetic regulators, and PI3K, MAPK, and other cellular signaling pathways as inducers of homologous recombination deficiency, providing support for the use of PARP inhibitors in contexts not previously considered susceptible to PARP inhibition.
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23
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Skorda A, Bay ML, Hautaniemi S, Lahtinen A, Kallunki T. Kinase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Ovarian Cancer: Current State and Future Promises. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246257. [PMID: 36551745 PMCID: PMC9777107 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecological cancer, the high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSC) being its most common and most aggressive form. Despite the latest therapeutical advancements following the introduction of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) targeting angiogenesis inhibitors and poly-ADP-ribose-polymerase (PARP) inhibitors to supplement the standard platinum- and taxane-based chemotherapy, the expected overall survival of HGSC patients has not improved significantly from the five-year rate of 42%. This calls for the development and testing of more efficient treatment options. Many oncogenic kinase-signaling pathways are dysregulated in HGSC. Since small-molecule kinase inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of many solid cancers due to the generality of the increased activation of protein kinases in carcinomas, it is reasonable to evaluate their potential against HGSC. Here, we present the latest concluded and on-going clinical trials on kinase inhibitors in HGSC, as well as the recent work concerning ovarian cancer patient organoids and xenograft models. We discuss the potential of kinase inhibitors as personalized treatments, which would require comprehensive assessment of the biological mechanisms underlying tumor spread and chemoresistance in individual patients, and their connection to tumor genome and transcriptome to establish identifiable subgroups of patients who are most likely to benefit from a given therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Skorda
- Cancer Invasion and Resistance Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Lund Bay
- Cancer Invasion and Resistance Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sampsa Hautaniemi
- Research Program in Systems Oncology, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Alexandra Lahtinen
- Research Program in Systems Oncology, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Correspondence: (A.L.); (T.K.)
| | - Tuula Kallunki
- Cancer Invasion and Resistance Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence: (A.L.); (T.K.)
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24
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Chen YW, Rini BI, Beckermann KE. Emerging Targets in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4843. [PMID: 36230766 PMCID: PMC9561986 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The dual immune checkpoint blockade targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1 (ipilimumab/nivolumab) or the IO combinations targeting PD-1 and anti-VEGF TKIs (pembrolizumab/axitinib, nivolumab/cabozantinib, pembrolizumab/lenvatinib) have demonstrated an overall survival benefit in advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Despite this significant improvement in clinical outcomes in the frontline setting from IO/IO or the IO/TKI combinations, there is a subset of patients of advanced ccRCC that do not respond to such combinations or will lose the initial efficacy and have disease progression. Therefore, a remarkable unmet need exists to develop new therapeutics to improve outcomes. With an enhanced understanding of ccRCC biology and its interaction with the tumor microenvironment, several new therapies are under development targeting ccRCC metabolism, cytokine-signaling, alternative immune checkpoint proteins, and novel biological pathways. In addition, microbiome products enhancing IO response, antibody-drug conjugates, and targeted radionuclides are also being investigated. This review summarizes selected emerging agents that are under development in ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Wei Chen
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Ave, 777 Preston Research Building, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Brian I. Rini
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Ave, 777 Preston Research Building, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Kathryn E. Beckermann
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Ave, 777 Preston Research Building, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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25
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SND1 confers chemoresistance to cisplatin-induced apoptosis by targeting GAS6-AKT in SKOV3 ovarian cancer cells. MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (NORTHWOOD, LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 39:169. [PMID: 35972612 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01763-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Platinum-based (especially cisplatin) chemotherapy is the main treatment after surgery for ovarian cancer. Although the initial treatment is effective, chemotherapy resistance develops rapidly. Therefore, chemotherapy resistance has always been a huge obstacle in the treatment of ovarian cancer. Staphylococcal nuclease domain-containing protein 1 (SND1) is an evolutionarily conserved multifunctional protein that plays a role in promoting tumorigenesis under various stress states. In this study, using MTT and SKOV3 ovarian cancer cells deficient in SND1 were observed to be more apoptotic and to express more apoptotic protein after treatment with cisplatin through the MTT, clone formation, and flow cytometry assays, while cells overexpressing SND1 exhibited a decreased number of apoptotic cells and expression of apoptotic proteins. Moreover, SND1 can regulate the expression of Growth arrest-specific 6 (GAS6) and then activate the AKT signaling pathway to achieve the regulation of sensitivity to cisplatin-induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer.
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