1
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Zhang Y, Chen F, Balic M, Creighton CJ. An essential gene signature of breast cancer metastasis reveals targetable pathways. Breast Cancer Res 2024; 26:98. [PMID: 38867323 PMCID: PMC11167932 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-024-01855-0] [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: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The differential gene expression profile of metastatic versus primary breast tumors represents an avenue for discovering new or underappreciated pathways underscoring processes of metastasis. However, as tumor biopsy samples are a mixture of cancer and non-cancer cells, most differentially expressed genes in metastases would represent confounders involving sample biopsy site rather than cancer cell biology. METHODS By paired analysis, we defined a top set of differentially expressed genes in breast cancer metastasis versus primary tumors using an RNA-sequencing dataset of 152 patients from The Breast International Group Aiming to Understand the Molecular Aberrations dataset (BIG-AURORA). To filter the genes higher in metastasis for genes essential for breast cancer proliferation, we incorporated CRISPR-based data from breast cancer cell lines. RESULTS A significant fraction of genes with higher expression in metastasis versus paired primary were essential by CRISPR. These 264 genes represented an essential signature of breast cancer metastasis. In contrast, nonessential metastasis genes largely involved tumor biopsy site. The essential signature predicted breast cancer patient outcome based on primary tumor expression patterns. Pathways underlying the essential signature included proteasome degradation, the electron transport chain, oxidative phosphorylation, and cancer metabolic reprogramming. Transcription factors MYC, MAX, HDAC3, and HCFC1 each bound significant fractions of essential genes. CONCLUSIONS Associations involving the essential gene signature of breast cancer metastasis indicate true biological changes intrinsic to cancer cells, with important implications for applying existing therapies or developing alternate therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Zhang
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, MS305, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fengju Chen
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, MS305, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Marija Balic
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Unit for Translational Breast Cancer Research, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, MS305, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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2
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Thompson PE, Shortt J. Defeating MYC with drug combinations or dual-targeting drugs. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:490-502. [PMID: 38782688 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.04.008] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Members of the MYC family of proteins are a major target for cancer drug discovery, but the development of drugs that block MYC-driven cancers has not yet been successful. Approaches to achieve success may include the development of combination therapies or dual-acting drugs that target MYC at multiple nodes. Such treatments hold the possibility of additive or synergistic activity, potentially reducing side effect profiles and the emergence of resistance. In this review, we examine the prominent MYC-related targets and highlight those that have been targeted in combination and/or dual-target approaches. Finally, we explore the challenges of combination and dual-target approaches from a drug development perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip E Thompson
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.
| | - Jake Shortt
- Blood Cancer Therapeutics Laboratory, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia; Monash Hematology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
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3
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Bhartiya D, Raouf S, Pansare K, Tripathi A, Tripathi A. Initiation of Cancer: The Journey From Mutations in Somatic Cells to Epigenetic Changes in Tissue-resident VSELs. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:857-880. [PMID: 38457060 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10694-7] [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] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Multiple theories exist to explain cancer initiation, although a consensus on this is crucial for developing effective therapies. 'Somatic mutation theory' suggests that mutations in somatic cells during DNA repair initiates cancer but this concept has several attached paradoxes. Research efforts to identify quiescent cancer stem cells (CSCs) that survive therapy and result in metastasis and recurrence have remained futile. In solid cancers, CSCs are suggested to appear during epithelial-mesenchymal transition by the dedifferentiation and reprogramming of epithelial cells. Pluripotent and quiescent very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) exist in multiple tissues but remain elusive owing to their small size and scarce nature. VSELs are developmentally connected to primordial germ cells, undergo rare, asymmetrical cell divisions and are responsible for the regular turnover of cells to maintain tissue homeostasis throughout life. VSELs are directly vulnerable to extrinsic endocrine insults because they express gonadal and gonadotropin hormone receptors. VSELs undergo epigenetic changes due to endocrine insults and transform into CSCs. CSCs exhibit genomic instability and develop mutations due to errors during DNA replication while undergoing excessive proliferation and clonal expansion to form spheroids. Thus tissue-resident VSELs offer a connection between extrinsic insults and variations in cancer incidence reported in various body tissues. To conclude, cancer is indeed a stem cell disease with mutations occurring as a consequence. In addition to immunotherapy, targeting mutations, and Lgr5 + organoids for developing new therapeutics, targeting CSCs (epigenetically altered VSELs) by improving their niche and epigenetic status could serve as a promising strategy to treat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Todi Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, 400013, Mumbai, India.
| | | | - Kshama Pansare
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Todi Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, 400013, Mumbai, India
| | - Anish Tripathi
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Todi Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, 400013, Mumbai, India
| | - Ashish Tripathi
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Todi Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, 400013, Mumbai, India
- 23Ikigai Pte Ltd, 30 Cecil Street, #21-08 Prudentsial Tower, Singapore, 049712, Singapore
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4
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Ma Y, Huang X, Wang Y, Lei Y, Yu J, Yu S, Gao Y, Yang J, Zhao F, Yu H, Zeng J, Chu Y, Yang M, Li G, Xie X, Zhang J. NNMT/1-MNA Promote Cell-Cycle Progression of Breast Cancer by Targeting UBC12/Cullin-1-Mediated Degradation of P27 Proteins. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2305907. [PMID: 38126621 PMCID: PMC10916551 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Cell cycle dysregulation is a defining feature of breast cancer. Here, 1-methyl-nicotinamide (1-MNA), metabolite of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase(NNMT) is identified, as a novel driver of cell-cycle progression in breast cancer. NNMT, highly expressed in breast cancer tissues, positively correlates with tumor grade, TNM stage, Ki-67 index, and tumor size. Ablation of NNMT expression dramatically suppresses cell proliferation and causes cell-cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase. This phenomenon predominantly stems from the targeted action of 1-MNA, resulting in a specific down-regulation of p27 protein expression. Mechanistically, 1-MNA expedites the degradation of p27 proteins by enhancing cullin-1 neddylation, crucial for the activation of Cullin-1-RING E3 ubiquitin ligase(CRL1)-an E3 ubiquitin ligase targeting p27 proteins. NNMT/1-MNA specifically up-regulates the expression of UBC12, an E2 NEDD8-conjugating enzyme required for cullin-1 neddylation. 1-MNA showes high binding affinity to UBC12, extending the half-life of UBC12 proteins via preventing their localization to lysosome for degradation. Therefore, 1-MNA is a bioactive metabolite that promotes breast cancer progression by reinforcing neddylation pathway-mediated p27 degradation. The study unveils the link between NNMT enzymatic activity with cell-cycle progression, indicating that 1-MNA may be involved in the remodeling of tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilei Ma
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Xucheng Huang
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Yanzhong Wang
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Yinjiao Lei
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Department of PathologySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Jinwei Yu
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Shaobo Yu
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Yuzhen Gao
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Department of CytopathologyNingbo Diagnostic Pathology CenterNingboZhejiang315046P. R. China
| | - Feng Zhao
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Haitao Yu
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Jin Zeng
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Yadong Chu
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryZhejiang Armed Police Corps HospitalHangzhouZhejiang310051P. R. China
| | - Min Yang
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Guoli Li
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Xinyou Xie
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Clinical LaboratorySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310016P. R. China
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5
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Garralda E, Beaulieu ME, Moreno V, Casacuberta-Serra S, Martínez-Martín S, Foradada L, Alonso G, Massó-Vallés D, López-Estévez S, Jauset T, Corral de la Fuente E, Doger B, Hernández T, Perez-Lopez R, Arqués O, Castillo Cano V, Morales J, Whitfield JR, Niewel M, Soucek L, Calvo E. MYC targeting by OMO-103 in solid tumors: a phase 1 trial. Nat Med 2024; 30:762-771. [PMID: 38321218 PMCID: PMC10957469 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-02805-1] [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: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Among the 'most wanted' targets in cancer therapy is the oncogene MYC, which coordinates key transcriptional programs in tumor development and maintenance. It has, however, long been considered undruggable. OMO-103 is a MYC inhibitor consisting of a 91-amino acid miniprotein. Here we present results from a phase 1 study of OMO-103 in advanced solid tumors, established to examine safety and tolerability as primary outcomes and pharmacokinetics, recommended phase 2 dose and preliminary signs of activity as secondary ones. A classical 3 + 3 design was used for dose escalation of weekly intravenous, single-agent OMO-103 administration in 21-day cycles, encompassing six dose levels (DLs). A total of 22 patients were enrolled, with treatment maintained until disease progression. The most common adverse events were grade 1 infusion-related reactions, occurring in ten patients. One dose-limiting toxicity occurred at DL5. Pharmacokinetics showed nonlinearity, with tissue saturation signs at DL5 and a terminal half-life in serum of 40 h. Of the 19 patients evaluable for response, 12 reached the predefined 9-week time point for assessment of drug antitumor activity, eight of those showing stable disease by computed tomography. One patient defined as stable disease by response evaluation criteria in solid tumors showed a 49% reduction in total tumor volume at best response. Transcriptomic analysis supported target engagement in tumor biopsies. In addition, we identified soluble factors that are potential pharmacodynamic and predictive response markers. Based on all these data, the recommended phase 2 dose was determined as DL5 (6.48 mg kg-1).ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04808362 .
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Víctor Moreno
- START Madrid-FJD-Hospital Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Guzman Alonso
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Bernard Doger
- START Madrid-FJD-Hospital Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Oriol Arqués
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Laura Soucek
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain.
- Peptomyc S.L., Barcelona, Spain.
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Barcelona, Spain.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.
| | - Emiliano Calvo
- START Madrid-CIOCC-Centro Integral Oncológico Clara Campal, Madrid, Spain
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6
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Cencic R, Im YK, Naineni SK, Moustafa-Kamal M, Jovanovic P, Sabourin V, Annis MG, Robert F, Schmeing TM, Koromilas A, Paquet M, Teodoro JG, Huang S, Siegel PM, Topisirovic I, Ursini-Siegel J, Pelletier J. A second-generation eIF4A RNA helicase inhibitor exploits translational reprogramming as a vulnerability in triple-negative breast cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2318093121. [PMID: 38232291 PMCID: PMC10823175 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2318093121] [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: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to address the current limitations of therapies for macro-metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and provide a therapeutic lead that overcomes the high degree of heterogeneity associated with this disease. Specifically, we focused on well-documented but clinically underexploited cancer-fueling perturbations in mRNA translation as a potential therapeutic vulnerability. We therefore developed an orally bioavailable rocaglate-based molecule, MG-002, which hinders ribosome recruitment and scanning via unscheduled and non-productive RNA clamping by the eukaryotic translation initiation factor (eIF) 4A RNA helicase. We demonstrate that MG-002 potently inhibits mRNA translation and primary TNBC tumor growth without causing overt toxicity in mice. Importantly, given that metastatic spread is a major cause of mortality in TNBC, we show that MG-002 attenuates metastasis in pre-clinical models. We report on MG-002, a rocaglate that shows superior properties relative to existing eIF4A inhibitors in pre-clinical models. Our study also paves the way for future clinical trials exploring the potential of MG-002 in TNBC and other oncological indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Cencic
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Young K. Im
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QCH3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Sai Kiran Naineni
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Mohamed Moustafa-Kamal
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Predrag Jovanovic
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QCH3T 1E2, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Valerie Sabourin
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QCH3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Matthew G. Annis
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Francis Robert
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - T. Martin Schmeing
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Antonis Koromilas
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QCH3T 1E2, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3J1, Canada
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3T2, Canada
| | - Marilène Paquet
- Département de pathologie et de microbiologie, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QCH3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Jose G. Teodoro
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Sidong Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Peter M. Siegel
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3J1, Canada
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3T2, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Ivan Topisirovic
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QCH3T 1E2, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3J1, Canada
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3T2, Canada
| | - Josie Ursini-Siegel
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QCH3T 1E2, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3J1, Canada
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3T2, Canada
| | - Jerry Pelletier
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3J1, Canada
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QCH4A 3T2, Canada
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7
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Fathy A, Abdelrazek MA, Attallah AM, Abouzid A, El-Far M. Hepatitis C virus may accelerate breast cancer progression by increasing mutant p53 and c-Myc oncoproteins circulating levels. Breast Cancer 2024; 31:116-123. [PMID: 37973687 PMCID: PMC10764473 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-023-01519-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) was reported to relate to polymorphous and frequent extrahepatic manifestation. Despite the limited studies, HCV viral oncoproteins may be implicated in breast cancer (BC) tumor aggressiveness. In a trial to elucidate a mechanistic link, this study aimed to investigate a mutant p53 and c-Myc oncoprotein expression levels in BC patients with and without HCV infection. METHODS A total of 215 BC patients (119 infected and 96 non-infected with HCV) were collected. ELISA was used for detection of anti-HCV antibodies, mutant p53, c-Myc, HCV-NS4, CEA, CA 125, and CA-15.3. RESULTS HCV infection was related to BC late stages, lymph-node invasion, distant metastasis, high grades, and large size. HCV-infected patients had a significantly (P < 0.05) higher WBCs, ALT and AST activity, bilirubin CEA, CA125 and CA15.3 levels, and reduced hemoglobin, albumin, and RBCs count. Regardless of tumor severity, HCV infection was associated with significant elevated levels of mutant p53 (22.5 ± 3.5 µg/mL; 1.9-fold increase) and c-Myc (21.4 ± 1.8 µg/mL; 1.5-fold increase). Among HCV-infected patients, elevated levels of p53 and c-Myc were significantly correlated with elevated tumor markers (CEA, CA 125, and CA15.3) and HCV-NS4 levels. CONCLUSIONS This study concluded that HCV infection may be accompanied with BC severity behavior and this may be owing to elevated expression of mutant p53 and c-Myc oncoproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Fathy
- Research and Development Department, Biotechnology Research Center, New Damietta, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Abdelrazek
- Research and Development Department, Biotechnology Research Center, New Damietta, Egypt.
| | | | - Amr Abouzid
- Surgical Oncology Department, Mansoura Oncology Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El-Far
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
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8
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Wedam R, Greer YE, Wisniewski DJ, Weltz S, Kundu M, Voeller D, Lipkowitz S. Targeting Mitochondria with ClpP Agonists as a Novel Therapeutic Opportunity in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15071936. [PMID: 37046596 PMCID: PMC10093243 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15071936] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy worldwide and the leading cause of cancer mortality in women. Despite the recent development of new therapeutics including targeted therapies and immunotherapy, triple-negative breast cancer remains an aggressive form of breast cancer, and thus improved treatments are needed. In recent decades, it has become increasingly clear that breast cancers harbor metabolic plasticity that is controlled by mitochondria. A myriad of studies provide evidence that mitochondria are essential to breast cancer progression. Mitochondria in breast cancers are widely reprogrammed to enhance energy production and biosynthesis of macromolecules required for tumor growth. In this review, we will discuss the current understanding of mitochondrial roles in breast cancers and elucidate why mitochondria are a rational therapeutic target. We will then outline the status of the use of mitochondria-targeting drugs in breast cancers, and highlight ClpP agonists as emerging mitochondria-targeting drugs with a unique mechanism of action. We also illustrate possible drug combination strategies and challenges in the future breast cancer clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Wedam
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Yoshimi Endo Greer
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - David J Wisniewski
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sarah Weltz
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Manjari Kundu
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Donna Voeller
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Stanley Lipkowitz
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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9
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Beaulieu ME, Martínez-Martín S, Kaur J, Castillo Cano V, Massó-Vallés D, Foradada Felip L, López-Estévez S, Serrano del Pozo E, Thabussot H, Soucek L. Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Omomyc Shows Lasting Structural Integrity and Long Terminal Half-Life in Tumor Tissue. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030826. [PMID: 36765784 PMCID: PMC9913332 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
MYC is an oncoprotein causally involved in the majority of human cancers and a most wanted target for cancer treatment. Omomyc is the best-characterized MYC dominant negative to date. In the last years, it has been developed into a therapeutic miniprotein for solid tumor treatment and recently reached clinical stage. However, since the in vivo stability of therapeutic proteins, especially within the tumor vicinity, can be affected by proteolytic degradation, the perception of Omomyc as a valid therapeutic agent has been often questioned. In this study, we used a mass spectrometry approach to evaluate the stability of Omomyc in tumor biopsies from murine xenografts following its intravenous administration. Our data strongly support that the integrity of the functional domains of Omomyc (DNA binding and dimerization region) remains preserved in the tumor tissue for at least 72 hours following administration and that the protein shows superior pharmacokinetics in the tumor compartment compared with blood serum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Eve Beaulieu
- Peptomyc S.L., Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.-E.B.); (L.S.)
| | | | - Jastrinjan Kaur
- Preclinical & Translational Research Program, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Daniel Massó-Vallés
- Peptomyc S.L., Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Foradada Felip
- Peptomyc S.L., Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Erika Serrano del Pozo
- Preclinical & Translational Research Program, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hugo Thabussot
- Peptomyc S.L., Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Soucek
- Peptomyc S.L., Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Preclinical & Translational Research Program, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.-E.B.); (L.S.)
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