1
|
Ruglioni M, Crucitta S, Luculli GI, Tancredi G, Del Giudice ML, Mechelli S, Galimberti S, Danesi R, Del Re M. Understanding mechanisms of resistance to FLT3 inhibitors in adult FLT3-mutated acute myeloid leukemia to guide treatment strategy. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 201:104424. [PMID: 38917943 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104424] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The presence of FLT3 mutations, including the most common FLT3-ITD (internal tandem duplications) and FLT3-TKD (tyrosine kinase domain), is associated with an unfavorable prognosis in patients affected by acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In this setting, in recent years, new FLT3 inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy in improving survival and treatment response. Nevertheless, the development of primary and secondary mechanisms of resistance poses a significant obstacle to their efficacy. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing novel therapeutic approaches to overcome resistance and improve the outcomes of patients. In this context, the use of novel FLT3 inhibitors and the combination of different targeted therapies have been studied. This review provides an update on the molecular alterations involved in the resistance to FLT3 inhibitors, and describes how the molecular monitoring may be used to guide treatment strategy in FLT3-mutated AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Ruglioni
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefania Crucitta
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanna Irene Luculli
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Gaspare Tancredi
- Unit of Hematology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Livia Del Giudice
- Unit of Hematology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Sandra Mechelli
- Unit of Internal Medicine 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Galimberti
- Unit of Hematology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Romano Danesi
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Italy.
| | - Marzia Del Re
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Urrutia S, Takahashi K. Precision medicine in AML: overcoming resistance. Int J Hematol 2024:10.1007/s12185-024-03827-8. [PMID: 39085680 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-024-03827-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The development of molecularly targeted therapy for acute myeloid leukemia is progressing at an accelerated pace. Therapies targeting FLT3, IDH1, IDH2, and BCL2 have been approved in the last 5 years. As we exploit these biological vulnerabilities, various mechanisms of resistance arise. Emergence of competing clones with different genetic drivers and acquisition of constitutional mutations in the target renders therapies ineffective, and enzymatic isoform changes can lead to reappearance of the disease phenotype. Understanding the timing and circumstances of resistance origination will allow clinicians to develop combinatorial and sequential therapeutic approaches to deepen responses and improve survival. The objective of this review is to illustrate the biological underpinnings of each therapy and the landscape of resistance mechanisms and discuss strategies to overcome on- and off-target resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Urrutia
- Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1901 East Road, 4SCR6.2085, Houston, TX, 77030-4009, USA
| | - Koichi Takahashi
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mohebbi A, Shahriyary F, Farrokhi V, Bandar B, Saki N. A systematic review of second-generation FLT3 inhibitors for treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia. Leuk Res 2024; 141:107505. [PMID: 38692232 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2024.107505] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a complex disease with diverse mutations, including prevalent mutations in the FMS-like receptor tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) gene that lead to poor prognosis. Recent advancements have introduced FLT3 inhibitors that have improved outcomes for FLT3-mutated AML patients, however, questions remain on their application in complex conditions such as relapsed/refractory (R/R) disease. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of second-generation FLT3 inhibitors in treating patients with R/R AML. METHODS A systematic literature search of PubMed, MEDLINE, SCOPUS and Google Scholar databases was made to identify relevant studies up to January 30, 2024. This study was conducted following the guidelines of the PRISMA. RESULTS The ADMIRAL trial revealed significantly improved overall survival and complete remission rates with gilteritinib compared to salvage chemotherapy, with manageable adverse effects. Ongoing research explores its potential in combination therapies, showing synergistic effects with venetoclax and promising outcomes in various clinical trials. The QuANTUM-R trial suggested longer overall survival with quizartinib compared to standard chemotherapy, although concerns were raised regarding trial design and cardiotoxicity. Ongoing research explores combination therapies involving quizartinib, such as doublet or triplet regimens with venetoclax, showing promising outcomes in FLT3-mutated AML patients. CONCLUSION These targeted therapies offer promise for managing this subgroup of AML patients, but further research is needed to optimize their use. This study underscores the importance of personalized treatment based on genetic mutations in AML, paving the way for more effective and tailored approaches to combat the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Mohebbi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Shahriyary
- Department of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vida Farrokhi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bita Bandar
- Department of Medical Laboratory, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathy Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Najmaldin Saki
- Department of Medical Laboratory, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathy Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kennedy VE, Smith CC. FLT3 targeting in the modern era: from clonal selection to combination therapies. Int J Hematol 2023:10.1007/s12185-023-03681-0. [PMID: 38112995 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-023-03681-0] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) is the most frequently mutated gene in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Modern targeting of FLT3 with inhibitors has improved clinical outcomes and FLT3 inhibitors have been incorporated into the treatment of AML in all phases of the disease, including the upfront, relapsed/refractory and maintenance settings. This review will discuss the current understanding of FLT3 biology, the clinical use of FLT3 inhibitors, resistance mechanisms and emerging combination treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa E Kennedy
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Ave, Box 1270, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Catherine C Smith
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Ave, Box 1270, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
- Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhao MN, Su L, Song F, Wei ZF, Qin TX, Zhang YW, Li W, Gao SJ. Shikonin Exerts an Antileukemia Effect against FLT3-ITD Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells via Targeting FLT3 and Its Downstream Pathways. Acta Haematol 2023; 147:310-324. [PMID: 37926079 PMCID: PMC11251672 DOI: 10.1159/000534101] [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: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutations in Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) has an unfavorable prognosis. Recently, using newly emerging inhibitors of FLT3 has led to improved outcomes of patients with FLT3-ITD mutations. However, drug resistance and relapse continue to be significant challenges in the treatment of patients with FLT3-ITD mutations. This study aimed to evaluate the antileukemic effects of shikonin (SHK) and its mechanisms of action against AML cells with FLT3-ITD mutations in vitro and in vivo. METHODS The CCK-8 assay was used to analyze cell viability, and flow cytometry was used to detect cell apoptosis and differentiation. Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to examine the expression of certain proteins and genes. Leukemia mouse model was created to evaluate the antileukemia effect of SHK against FLT3-ITD mutated leukemia in vivo. RESULTS After screening a series of leukemia cell lines, those with FLT3-ITD mutations were found to be more sensitive to SHK in terms of proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction than those without FLT3-ITD mutation. SHK suppresses the expression and phosphorylation of FLT3 receptors and their downstream molecules. Inhibition of the NF-κB/miR-155 pathway is an important mechanism through which SHK kills FLT3-AML cells. Moreover, a low concentration of SHK promotes the differentiation of AML cells with FLT3-ITD mutations. Finally, SHK could significantly inhibit the growth of MV4-11 cells in leukemia bearing mice. CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate that SHK may be a promising drug for the treatment of FLT3-ITD mutated AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Nan Zhao
- Department of Cancer, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Long Su
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Fei Song
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhi-Feng Wei
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tian-Xue Qin
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yun-Wei Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Cancer, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Su-Jun Gao
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Milnerowicz S, Maszewska J, Skowera P, Stelmach M, Lejman M. AML under the Scope: Current Strategies and Treatment Involving FLT3 Inhibitors and Venetoclax-Based Regimens. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15849. [PMID: 37958832 PMCID: PMC10647248 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115849] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a disease that mainly affects elderly patients who are more often unfit for intensive chemotherapy (median age of diagnosis is 68). The regimens, including venetoclax, a highly specific BCL-2 (B-cell lymphoma-2) inhibitor, are a common alternative because of their safer profile and fewer side effects. However, the resistance phenomenon of leukemic cells necessitates the search for drugs that would help to overcome the resistance and improve treatment outcomes. One of the resistance mechanisms takes place through the upregulation of MCL-1 and BCL-XL, preventing BAX/BAK-driven MOMP (mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization), thus stopping the apoptosis process. Possible partners for BCL-2 inhibitors may include inhibitors from the FLT3i (FMS-like tyrosine kinase-3 inhibitor) group. They resensitize cancer cells through the downregulation of MCL-1 expression in the FLT3 mutated cells, resulting in the stronger efficacy of BCL-2 inhibitors. Also, they provide an additional pathway for targeting the clonal cell. Both preclinical and clinical data suggest that the combination might show a synergistic effect and improve patients' outcomes. The aim of this review is to determine whether the combination of venetoclax and FLT3 inhibitors can impact the therapeutic approaches and what other agents they can be combined with.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Szymon Milnerowicz
- Student Scientific Society, Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (S.M.); (J.M.)
| | - Julia Maszewska
- Student Scientific Society, Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (S.M.); (J.M.)
| | - Paulina Skowera
- Independent Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Magdalena Stelmach
- Independent Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Monika Lejman
- Independent Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.S.); (M.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lang TJL, Damm F, Bullinger L, Frick M. Mechanisms of Resistance to Small Molecules in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4573. [PMID: 37760544 PMCID: PMC10526197 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184573] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, great progress has been made in the therapy of AML by targeting cellular processes associated with specific molecular features of the disease. Various small molecules inhibiting FLT3, IDH1/IDH2, and BCL2 have already gained approval from the respective authorities and are essential parts of personalized therapeutic regimens in modern therapy of AML. Unfortunately, primary and secondary resistance to these inhibitors is a frequent problem. Here, we comprehensively review the current state of knowledge regarding molecular processes involved in primary and secondary resistance to these agents, covering both genetic and nongenetic mechanisms. In addition, we introduce concepts and strategies for how these resistance mechanisms might be overcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tonio Johannes Lukas Lang
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Frederik Damm
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lars Bullinger
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mareike Frick
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Park MN. The Therapeutic Potential of a Strategy to Prevent Acute Myeloid Leukemia Stem Cell Reprogramming in Older Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12037. [PMID: 37569414 PMCID: PMC10418941 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512037] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common and incurable leukemia subtype. Despite extensive research into the disease's intricate molecular mechanisms, effective treatments or expanded diagnostic or prognostic markers for AML have not yet been identified. The morphological, immunophenotypic, cytogenetic, biomolecular, and clinical characteristics of AML patients are extensive and complex. Leukemia stem cells (LSCs) consist of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and cancer cells transformed by a complex, finely-tuned interaction that causes the complexity of AML. Microenvironmental regulation of LSCs dormancy and the diagnostic and therapeutic implications for identifying and targeting LSCs due to their significance in the pathogenesis of AML are discussed in this review. It is essential to perceive the relationship between the niche for LSCs and HSCs, which together cause the progression of AML. Notably, methylation is a well-known epigenetic change that is significant in AML, and our data also reveal that microRNAs are a unique factor for LSCs. Multiple-targeted approaches to reduce the risk of epigenetic factors, such as the administration of natural compounds for the elimination of local LSCs, may prevent potentially fatal relapses. Furthermore, the survival analysis of overlapping genes revealed that specific targets had significant effects on the survival and prognosis of patients. We predict that the multiple-targeted effects of herbal products on epigenetic modification are governed by different mechanisms in AML and could prevent potentially fatal relapses. Thus, these strategies can facilitate the incorporation of herbal medicine and natural compounds into the advanced drug discovery and development processes achievable with Network Pharmacology research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moon Nyeo Park
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegidong Dongdaemungu, Seoul 05253, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Perrone S, Ottone T, Zhdanovskaya N, Molica M. How acute myeloid leukemia (AML) escapes from FMS-related tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) inhibitors? Still an overrated complication? CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:223-238. [PMID: 37457126 PMCID: PMC10344728 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2022.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
FMS-related tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) mutations, present in about 25%-30% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients, constitute one of the most frequently detected mutations in these patients. The binding of FLT3L to FLT3 activates the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and RAS pathways, producing increased cell proliferation and the inhibition of apoptosis. Two types of FLT3 mutations exist: FLT3-ITD and FLT3-TKD (point mutations in D835 and I836 or deletion of codon I836). A class of drugs, tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKI), targeting mutated FLT3, is already available with 1st and 2nd generation molecules, but only midostaurin and gilteritinib are currently approved. However, the emergence of resistance or the selection of clones not responding to FLT3 inhibitors has become an important clinical dilemma, as the duration of clinical responses is generally limited to a few months. This review analyzes the insights into mechanisms of resistance to TKI and poses a particular view on the clinical relevance of this phenomenon. Has resistance been overlooked? Indeed, FLT3 inhibitors have significantly contributed to reducing the negative impact of FLT3 mutations on the prognosis of AML patients who are no longer considered at high risk by the European LeukemiaNet (ELN) 2022. Finally, several ongoing efforts to overcome resistance to FLT3-inhibitors will be presented: new generation FLT3 inhibitors in monotherapy or combined with standard chemotherapy, hypomethylating drugs, or IDH1/2 inhibitors, Bcl2 inhibitors; novel anti-human FLT3 monoclonal antibodies (e.g., FLT3/CD3 bispecific antibodies); FLT3-CAR T-cells; CDK4/6 kinase inhibitor (e.g., palbociclib).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Perrone
- Hematology, Polo Universitario Pontino, S.M. Goretti Hospital, Latina 04100, Italy
| | - Tiziana Ottone
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, the University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome 00100 Italy
- Neuro-Oncohematology, Santa Lucia Foundation, I.R.C.C.S., Rome 00100, Italy
| | - Nadezda Zhdanovskaya
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Matteo Molica
- Hematology Unit, S. Eugenio Hospital, ASL Roma 2, Rome 00144, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Fedorov K, Maiti A, Konopleva M. Targeting FLT3 Mutation in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Current Strategies and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082312. [PMID: 37190240 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
FLT3 mutations are present in 30% of newly diagnosed patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Two broad categories of FLT3 mutations are ITD and TKD, with the former having substantial clinical significance. Patients with FLT3-ITD mutation present with a higher disease burden and have inferior overall survival, due to high relapse rates after achieving remission. The development of targeted therapies with FLT3 inhibitors over the past decade has substantially improved clinical outcomes. Currently, two FLT3 inhibitors are approved for use in patients with acute myeloid leukemia: midostaurin in the frontline setting, in combination with intensive chemotherapy; and gilteritinib as monotherapy in the relapsed refractory setting. The addition of FLT3 inhibitors to hypomethylating agents and venetoclax offers superior responses in several completed and ongoing studies, with encouraging preliminary data. However, responses to FLT3 inhibitors are of limited duration due to the emergence of resistance. A protective environment within the bone marrow makes eradication of FLT3mut leukemic cells difficult, while prior exposure to FLT3 inhibitors leads to the development of alternative FLT3 mutations as well as activating mutations in downstream signaling, promoting resistance to currently available therapies. Multiple novel therapeutic strategies are under investigation, including BCL-2, menin, and MERTK inhibitors, as well as FLT3-directed BiTEs and CAR-T therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kateryna Fedorov
- Department of Oncology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
| | - Abhishek Maiti
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Oncology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ghiaur G, Valkenburg KC, Esteb C, Ambinder A, Imus PH, Pienta KJ, Jones RJ. Bone marrow niche chemoprotection of metastatic solid tumors mediated by CYP3A4. Cancer 2023; 129:1744-1751. [PMID: 36840972 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The bone/bone marrow is one of the most common sites for metastatic solid tumors. Moreover, the tumor microenvironment is an essential part of cancer homeostasis. Previously, it was shown that cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) are present in the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment, particularly in the mesenchymal stroma cells, at levels comparable to those of hepatocytes. It was found that the CYPs play important roles in nurturing and maintaining normal hematopoietic stem cells as well as multiple myeloma and leukemia cells, including protecting them from toxic insults. It was hypothesized that the CYPs in the BM microenvironment might play a similar role in solid tumors metastatic to bone. METHODS The interaction between the BM microenvironment and malignant cells that routinely metastasize to the bone (lung, breast, and prostate cancer) was modeled. Via genetic engineering and pharmacological approaches, the role of stromal cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) in drug resistance promoted by the BM microenvironment in niche-cancer models in vitro and in vivo was interrogated. RESULTS BM stroma protected prostate, breast, and lung cancer cells from cytotoxic chemotherapy. Stromal CYP3A4 was at least partially responsible for this protection in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, inhibiting CYP3A4 with clarithromycin overcame the stroma-mediated chemoresistance toward prostate, breast, and lung cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that, similar to observations from hematologic malignancies, the BM microenvironment, through expression of CYPs, creates a sanctuary site from chemotherapy for metastatic solid tumors. Targeting these sanctuaries holds promise for eradicating bone metastasis in solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Ghiaur
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kenneth C Valkenburg
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Christopher Esteb
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Alexander Ambinder
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Philip H Imus
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kenneth J Pienta
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Richard J Jones
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mecklenbrauck R, Heuser M. Resistance to targeted therapies in acute myeloid leukemia. Clin Exp Metastasis 2023; 40:33-44. [PMID: 36318439 PMCID: PMC9898349 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-022-10189-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The introduction of new targeted therapies to the treatment algorithm of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) offers new opportunities, but also presents new challenges. Patients diagnosed with AML receiving targeted therapies as part of lower intensity regimens will relapse inevitably due to primary or secondary resistance mechanisms. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the main mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies in AML. Resistance to FLT3 inhibitors is mainly mediated by on target mutations and dysregulation of downstream pathways. Switching the FLT3 inhibitor has a potential therapeutic benefit. During treatment with IDH inhibitors resistance can develop due to aberrant cell metabolism or secondary site IDH mutations. As a unique resistance mechanism the mutated IDH isotype may switch from IDH1 to IDH2 or vice versa. Resistance to gemtuzumab-ozogamicin is determined by the CD33 isotype and the degradation of the cytotoxin. The main mechanisms of resistance to venetoclax are the dysregulation of alternative pathways especially the upregulation of the BCL-2-analogues MCL-1 and BCL-XL or the induction of an aberrant cell metabolism. The introduction of therapies targeting immune processes will lead to new forms of therapy resistance. Knowing those mechanisms will help to develop strategies that can overcome resistance to treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rabea Mecklenbrauck
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Heuser
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gökçe F, Kaestli A, Lohasz C, de Geus M, Kaltenbach HM, Renggli K, Bornhauser B, Hierlemann A, Modena M. Microphysiological Drug-Testing Platform for Identifying Responses to Prodrug Treatment in Primary Leukemia. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2202506. [PMID: 36651229 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202202506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Despite increasing survival rates of pediatric leukemia patients over the past decades, the outcome of some leukemia subtypes has remained dismal. Drug sensitivity and resistance testing on patient-derived leukemia samples provide important information to tailor treatments for high-risk patients. However, currently used well-based drug screening platforms have limitations in predicting the effects of prodrugs, a class of therapeutics that require metabolic activation to become effective. To address this issue, a microphysiological drug-testing platform is developed that enables co-culturing of patient-derived leukemia cells, human bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells, and human liver microtissues within the same microfluidic platform. This platform also enables to control the physical interaction between the diverse cell types. Herein, it is made possible to recapitulate hepatic prodrug activation of ifosfamide in their platform, which is very difficult in traditional well-based assays. By testing the susceptibility of primary patient-derived leukemia samples to the prodrug ifosfamide, sample-specific sensitivities to ifosfamide in primary leukemia samples are identified. The microfluidic platform is found to enable the recapitulation of physiologically relevant conditions and the testing of prodrugs including short-lived and unstable metabolites. The platform holds great potential for clinical translation and precision chemotherapy selection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Furkan Gökçe
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, BS, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Alicia Kaestli
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, BS, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Christian Lohasz
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, BS, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Martina de Geus
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, BS, 4058, Switzerland
| | | | - Kasper Renggli
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, BS, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Beat Bornhauser
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, ZH, 8008, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Hierlemann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, BS, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Mario Modena
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, BS, 4058, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yu S, Ye J, Wang Y, Lu T, Liu Y, Liu N, Zhang J, Lu F, Ma D, Gale RP, Ji C. DNA damage to bone marrow stromal cells by antileukemia drugs induces chemoresistance in acute myeloid leukemia via paracrine FGF10-FGFR2 signaling. J Biol Chem 2022; 299:102787. [PMID: 36509141 PMCID: PMC9860495 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102787] [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: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance remains a major challenge in the current treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) plays a complex role in protecting leukemia cells from chemotherapeutics, and the mechanisms involved are not fully understood. Antileukemia drugs kill AML cells directly but also damage the BMM. Here, we determined antileukemia drugs induce DNA damage in bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), resulting in resistance of AML cell lines to adriamycin and idarubicin killing. Damaged BMSCs induced an inflammatory microenvironment through NF-κB; suppressing NF-κB with small molecule inhibitor Bay11-7082 attenuated the prosurvival effects of BMSCs on AML cell lines. Furthermore, we used an ex vivo functional screen of 507 chemokines and cytokines to identify 44 proteins secreted from damaged BMSCs. Fibroblast growth factor-10 (FGF10) was most strongly associated with chemoresistance in AML cell lines. Additionally, expression of FGF10 and its receptors, FGFR1 and FGFR2, was increased in AML patients after chemotherapy. FGFR1 and FGFR2 were also widely expressed by AML cell lines. FGF10-induced FGFR2 activation in AML cell lines operates by increasing P38 MAPK, AKT, ERK1/2, and STAT3 phosphorylation. FGFR2 inhibition with small molecules or gene silencing of FGFR2 inhibited proliferation and reverses drug resistance of AML cells by inhibiting P38 MAPK, AKT, and ERK1/2 signaling pathways. Finally, release of FGF10 was mediated by β-catenin signaling in damaged BMSCs. Our data indicate FGF10-FGFR2 signaling acts as an effector of damaged BMSC-mediated chemoresistance in AML cells, and FGFR2 inhibition can reverse stromal protection and AML cell chemoresistance in the BMM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Yu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingjing Ye
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingqiao Wang
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ting Lu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingru Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Fei Lu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Daoxin Ma
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Robert Peter Gale
- Haematology Section, Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chunyan Ji
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunohematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China,For correspondence: Chunyan Ji
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tecik M, Adan A. Therapeutic Targeting of FLT3 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Current Status and Novel Approaches. Onco Targets Ther 2022; 15:1449-1478. [PMID: 36474506 PMCID: PMC9719701 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s384293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) is mutated in approximately 30% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. The presence of FLT3-ITD (internal tandem duplication, 20-25%) mutation and, to a lesser extent, FLT3-TKD (tyrosine kinase domain, 5-10%) mutation is associated with poorer diagnosis and therapy response since the leukemic cells become hyperproliferative and resistant to apoptosis after continuous activation of FLT3 signaling. Targeting FLT3 has been the focus of many pre-clinical and clinical studies. Hence, many small-molecule FLT3 inhibitors (FLT3is) have been developed, some of which are approved such as midostaurin and gilteritinib to be used in different clinical settings, either in combination with chemotherapy or alone. However, many questions regarding the best treatment strategy remain to be answered. On the other hand, various FLT3-dependent and -independent resistance mechanisms could be evolved during FLT3i therapy which limit their clinical impact. Therefore, identifying molecular mechanisms of resistance and developing novel strategies to overcome this obstacle is a current interest in the field. In this review, recent studies of approved FLT3i and knowledge about major resistance mechanisms of clinically approved FLT3i's will be discussed together with novel treatment approaches such as designing novel FLT3i and dual FLT3i and combination strategies including approved FLT3i plus small-molecule agents targeting altered molecules in the resistant cells to abrogate resistance. Moreover, how to choose an appropriate FLT3i for the patients will be summarized based on what is currently known from available clinical data. In addition, strategies beyond FLT3i's including immunotherapeutics, small-molecule FLT3 degraders, and flavonoids will be summarized to highlight potential alternatives in FLT3-mutated AML therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melisa Tecik
- Bioengineering Program, Graduate School of Engineering and Science, Abdullah Gul University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Aysun Adan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences, Abdullah Gul University, Kayseri, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Park HJ, Gregory MA, Zaberezhnyy V, Goodspeed A, Jordan CT, Kieft JS, DeGregori J. Therapeutic resistance in acute myeloid leukemia cells is mediated by a novel ATM/mTOR pathway regulating oxidative phosphorylation. eLife 2022; 11:e79940. [PMID: 36259537 PMCID: PMC9645811 DOI: 10.7554/elife.79940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
While leukemic cells are susceptible to various therapeutic insults, residence in the bone marrow microenvironment typically confers protection from a wide range of drugs. Thus, understanding the unique molecular changes elicited by the marrow is of critical importance toward improving therapeutic outcomes. In this study, we demonstrate that aberrant activation of oxidative phosphorylation serves to induce therapeutic resistance in FLT3 mutant human AML cells challenged with FLT3 inhibitor drugs. Importantly, our findings show that AML cells are protected from apoptosis following FLT3 inhibition due to marrow-mediated activation of ATM, which in turn upregulates oxidative phosphorylation via mTOR signaling. mTOR is required for the bone marrow stroma-dependent maintenance of protein translation, with selective polysome enrichment of oxidative phosphorylation transcripts, despite FLT3 inhibition. To investigate the therapeutic significance of this finding, we tested the mTOR inhibitor everolimus in combination with the FLT3 inhibitor quizartinib in primary human AML xenograft models. While marrow resident AML cells were highly resistant to quizartinib alone, the addition of everolimus induced profound reduction in tumor burden and prevented relapse. Taken together, these data provide a novel mechanistic understanding of marrow-based therapeutic resistance and a promising strategy for improved treatment of FLT3 mutant AML patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hae J Park
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
| | - Mark A Gregory
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
| | - Vadym Zaberezhnyy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
| | - Andrew Goodspeed
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
- University of Colorado Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
| | - Craig T Jordan
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
| | - Jeffrey S Kieft
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
| | - James DeGregori
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
- University of Colorado Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ge SS, Liu SB, Xue SL. Developments and challenges of FLT3 inhibitors in acute myeloid leukemia. Front Oncol 2022; 12:996438. [PMID: 36185253 PMCID: PMC9515417 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.996438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
FLT3 mutations are one of the most common genetic alterations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and are identified in approximately one-third of newly diagnosed patients. Aberrant FLT3 receptor signaling has important implications for the biology and clinical management of AML. In recent years, targeting FLT3 has been a part of every course of treatment in FLT3-ITD/TKD-mutated AML and contributes to substantially prolonged survival. At the same time, wide application of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has revealed a series of non-canonical FLT3 mutations, including point mutations and small insertions/deletions. Some of these mutations may be able to influence downstream phosphorylation and sensitivity to FLT3 inhibitors, while the correlation with clinical outcomes remains unclear. Exploration of FLT3-targeted therapy has made substantial progress, but resistance to FLT3 inhibitors has become a pressing issue. The mechanisms underlying FLT3 inhibitor tolerance can be roughly divided into primary resistance and secondary resistance. Primary resistance is related to abnormalities in signaling factors, such as FL, CXCL12, and FGF2, and secondary resistance mainly involves on-target mutations and off-target aberrations. To overcome this problem, novel agents such as FF-10101 have shown promising potential. Multitarget strategies directed at FLT3 and anomalous signaling factors simultaneously are in active clinical development and show promising results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuai-Shuai Ge
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Song-Bai Liu
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Suzhou Vocational Health College, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Song-Bai Liu, ; Sheng-Li Xue,
| | - Sheng-Li Xue
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Song-Bai Liu, ; Sheng-Li Xue,
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
“FLipping” the Story: FLT3-Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia and the Evolving Role of FLT3 Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143398. [PMID: 35884458 PMCID: PMC9315611 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) may have a number of different mutations. Those with mutations in the FLT3 gene have a higher risk of relapse and death than those lacking these mutations. FLT3 is a key receptor on the surface of AML cells, which drives cell survival and growth. Although activation of this receptor is normally tightly controlled, in AML, FLT3 mutations allow it to activate itself, independent of external control. Over the past 5 years, a number of new drugs have been developed to specifically target these mutations. In this article, we discuss these drugs and their uses, as well as the mechanisms by which AML cells may gain resistance to them and how that resistance can be overcome. Abstract The treatment of many types of cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML), has been revolutionized by the development of therapeutics targeted at crucial molecular drivers of oncogenesis. In contrast to broad, relatively indiscriminate conventional chemotherapy, these targeted agents precisely disrupt key pathways within cancer cells. FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3)—encoding a critical regulator of hematopoiesis—is the most frequently mutated gene in patients with AML, and these mutations herald reduced survival and increased relapse in these patients. Approximately 30% of newly diagnosed AML carries an FLT3 mutation; of these, approximately three-quarters are internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutations, and the remainder are tyrosine kinase domain (TKD) mutations. In contrast to its usual, tightly controlled expression, FLT3-ITD mutants allow constitutive, “run-away” activation of a large number of key downstream pathways which promote cellular proliferation and survival. Targeted inhibition of FLT3 is, therefore, a promising therapeutic avenue. In April 2017, midostaurin became both the first FLT3 inhibitor and the first targeted therapy of any kind in AML to be approved by the US FDA. The use of FLT3 inhibitors has continued to grow as clinical trials continue to demonstrate the efficacy of this class of agents, with an expanding number available for use as both experimental standard-of-care usage. This review examines the biology of FLT3 and its downstream pathways, the mechanism of FLT3 inhibition, the development of the FLT3 inhibitors as a class and uses of the agents currently available clinically, and the mechanisms by which resistance to FLT3 inhibition may both develop and be overcome.
Collapse
|
19
|
Kasarla SS, Garikapati V, Kumar Y, Dodoala S. Interplay of Vitamin D and CYP3A4 Polymorphisms in Endocrine Disorders and Cancer. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2022; 37:392-407. [PMID: 35654576 PMCID: PMC9262690 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2021.1349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D has received considerable optimistic attention as a potentially important factor in many pathological states over the past few decades. However, the proportion of the active form of vitamin D metabolites responsible for biological activity is highly questionable in disease states due to flexible alterations in the enzymes responsible for their metabolism. For instance, CYP3A4 plays a crucial role in the biotransformation of vitamin D and other drug substances. Food-drug and/or drug-drug interactions, the disease state, genetic polymorphism, age, sex, diet, and environmental factors all influence CYP3A4 activity. Genetic polymorphisms in CYP450-encoding genes have received considerable attention in the past few decades due to their extensive impact on the pharmacokinetic and dynamic properties of drugs and endogenous substances. In this review, we focused on CYP3A4 polymorphisms and their interplay with vitamin D metabolism and summarized the role of vitamin D in calcium homeostasis, bone diseases, diabetes, cancer, other diseases, and drug substances. We also reviewed clinical observations pertaining to CYP3A4 polymorphisms among the aforementioned disease conditions. In addition, we highlighted the future perspectives of studying the pharmacogenetics of CYP3A4, which may have potential clinical significance for developing novel diagnostic genetic markers that will ascertain disease risk and progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siva Swapna Kasarla
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Vannuruswamy Garikapati
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Yashwant Kumar
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Sujatha Dodoala
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women’s University), Tirupati, India
- Corresponding author: Sujatha Dodoala Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women’s Univeristy), Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517502, India Tel: +91-0877-2284531, Fax: +91-0877-2284531, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
FLT3-targeted treatment for acute myeloid leukemia. Int J Hematol 2022; 116:351-363. [DOI: 10.1007/s12185-022-03374-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
21
|
Lee P, Yim R, Fung SH, Miu KK, Wang Z, Wu KC, Au L, Leung GMK, Lee VHF, Gill H. Single-Nucleotide Variations, Insertions/Deletions and Copy Number Variations in Myelodysplastic Syndrome during Disease Progression Revealed by a Single-Cell DNA Sequencing Platform. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:4647. [PMID: 35563039 PMCID: PMC9100947 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a clonal myeloid neoplasm characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, cytopenia, dysplasia, and clonal instability, leading to leukemic transformation. Hypomethylating agents are the mainstay of treatment in higher-risk MDS. However, treatment resistance and disease transformation into acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is observed in the majority of patients and is indicative of a dismal outcome. The residual cell clones resistant to therapy or cell clones acquiring new genetic aberrations are two of the key events responsible for drug resistance. Bulk tumor sequencing often fails to detect these rare subclones that confer resistance to therapy. In this study, we employed a single-cell DNA (sc-DNA) sequencing approach to study the clonal heterogeneity and clonal evolution in two MDS patients refractory to HMA. In both patients, different single nucleotide variations (SNVs) or insertions and deletions (INDELs) were detected with bulk tumor sequencing. Rare cell clones with mutations that are undetectable by bulk tumor sequencing were detected by sc-DNA sequencing. In addition to SNVs and short INDELs, this study also revealed the presence of a clonal copy number loss of DNMT3A, TET2, and GATA2 as standalone events or in association with the small SNVs or INDELs detected during HMA resistance and disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Lee
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (P.L.); (R.Y.); (L.A.); (G.M.-K.L.)
| | - Rita Yim
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (P.L.); (R.Y.); (L.A.); (G.M.-K.L.)
| | - Sin-Hang Fung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.-H.F.); (K.-K.M.); (Z.W.)
| | - Kai-Kei Miu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.-H.F.); (K.-K.M.); (Z.W.)
| | - Zhangting Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.-H.F.); (K.-K.M.); (Z.W.)
| | - Ka-Chun Wu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (K.-C.W.); (V.H.-F.L.)
| | - Lester Au
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (P.L.); (R.Y.); (L.A.); (G.M.-K.L.)
| | - Garret Man-Kit Leung
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (P.L.); (R.Y.); (L.A.); (G.M.-K.L.)
| | - Victor Ho-Fun Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (K.-C.W.); (V.H.-F.L.)
| | - Harinder Gill
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (P.L.); (R.Y.); (L.A.); (G.M.-K.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Zhao JC, Agarwal S, Ahmad H, Amin K, Bewersdorf JP, Zeidan AM. A review of FLT3 inhibitors in acute myeloid leukemia. Blood Rev 2022; 52:100905. [PMID: 34774343 PMCID: PMC9846716 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2021.100905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
FLT3 mutations are the most common genetic aberrations found in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and associated with poor prognosis. Since the discovery of FLT3 mutations and their prognostic implications, multiple FLT3-targeted molecules have been evaluated. Midostaurin is approved in the U.S. and Europe for newly diagnosed FLT3 mutated AML in combination with standard induction and consolidation chemotherapy based on data from the RATIFY study. Gilteritinib is approved for relapsed or refractory FLT3 mutated AML as monotherapy based on the ADMIRAL study. Although significant progress has been made in the treatment of AML with FLT3-targeting, many challenges remain. Several drug resistance mechanisms have been identified, including clonal selection, stromal protection, FLT3-associated mutations, and off-target mutations. The benefit of FLT3 inhibitor maintenance therapy, either post-chemotherapy or post-transplant, remains controversial, although several studies are ongoing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sonal Agarwal
- Department of Pharmacy, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hiba Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacy, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kejal Amin
- Department of Pharmacy, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amer M Zeidan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Role of Biomarkers in FLT3 AML. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051164. [PMID: 35267471 PMCID: PMC8909069 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Genetically heterogeneous disorder acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is marked by recurring mutations in FLT3. Current FLT3 inhibitors and other emerging inhibitors have helped in the improvement of the quality of standard of care therapies; however, the overall survival of the patients remains static. This is due to numerous mutations in FLT3, which causes resistance against these FLT3 inhibitors. For effective treatment of AML patients, alternative approaches are required to overcome this resistance. Here, we will summarize the biomarkers for FLT3 inhibitors in AML, as well as the alternative measures to overcome resistance to the current therapies. Abstract Acute myeloid leukemia is a disease characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of clonal myeloid blast cells that are incapable of maturation to leukocytes. AML is the most common leukemia in adults and remains a highly fatal disease with a five-year survival rate of 24%. More than 50% of AML patients have mutations in the FLT3 gene, rendering FLT3 an attractive target for small-molecule inhibition. Currently, there are several FLT3 inhibitors in the clinic, and others remain in clinical trials. However, these inhibitors face challenges due to lack of efficacy against several FLT3 mutants. Therefore, the identification of biomarkers is vital to stratify AML patients and target AML patient population with a particular FLT3 mutation. Additionally, there is an unmet need to identify alternative approaches to combat the resistance to FLT3 inhibitors. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the utilization of diagnostic, prognostic, predictive, and pharmacodynamic biomarkers for FLT3-mutated AML. The resistance mechanisms to various FLT3 inhibitors and alternative approaches to combat this resistance are also discussed and presented.
Collapse
|
24
|
Karantanos T, Teodorescu P, Perkins B, Christodoulou I, Esteb C, Varadhan R, Helmenstine E, Rajkhowa T, Paun BC, Bonifant C, Dalton WB, Gondek LP, Moliterno AR, Levis MJ, Ghiaur G, Jones RJ. The role of the atypical chemokine receptor CCRL2 in myelodysplastic syndrome and secondary acute myeloid leukemia. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabl8952. [PMID: 35179961 PMCID: PMC8856621 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abl8952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The identification of new pathways supporting the myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) primitive cells growth is required to develop targeted therapies. Within myeloid malignancies, men have worse outcomes than women, suggesting male sex hormone-driven effects in malignant hematopoiesis. Androgen receptor promotes the expression of five granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor-regulated genes. Among them, CCRL2 encodes an atypical chemokine receptor regulating cytokine signaling in granulocytes, but its role in myeloid malignancies is unknown. Our study revealed that CCRL2 is up-regulated in primitive cells from patients with MDS and secondary acute myeloid leukemia (sAML). CCRL2 knockdown suppressed MDS92 and MDS-L cell growth and clonogenicity in vitro and in vivo and decreased JAK2/STAT3/STAT5 phosphorylation. CCRL2 coprecipitated with JAK2 and potentiated JAK2-STAT interaction. Erythroleukemia cells expressing JAK2V617F showed less effect of CCRL2 knockdown, whereas fedratinib potentiated the CCRL2 knockdown effect. Conclusively, our results implicate CCRL2 as an MDS/sAML cell growth mediator, partially through JAK2/STAT signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theodoros Karantanos
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Patric Teodorescu
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Brandy Perkins
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ilias Christodoulou
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christopher Esteb
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ravi Varadhan
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Johns Hopkins/Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Eric Helmenstine
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Trivikram Rajkhowa
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bogdan C. Paun
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Challice Bonifant
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - W. Brian Dalton
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lukasz P. Gondek
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alison R. Moliterno
- Division of Adult Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Mark J. Levis
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gabriel Ghiaur
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Richard J. Jones
- Division of Hematological Malignancies, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ayyadurai VAS, Deonikar P, McLure KG, Sakamoto KM. Molecular Systems Architecture of Interactome in the Acute Myeloid Leukemia Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:756. [PMID: 35159023 PMCID: PMC8833542 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A molecular systems architecture is presented for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) to provide a framework for organizing the complexity of biomolecular interactions. AML is a multifactorial disease resulting from impaired differentiation and increased proliferation of hematopoietic precursor cells involving genetic mutations, signaling pathways related to the cancer cell genetics, and molecular interactions between the cancer cell and the tumor microenvironment, including endothelial cells, fibroblasts, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, bone marrow stromal cells, and immune cells (e.g., T-regs, T-helper 1 cells, T-helper 17 cells, T-effector cells, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells). This molecular systems architecture provides a layered understanding of intra- and inter-cellular interactions in the AML cancer cell and the cells in the stromal microenvironment. The molecular systems architecture may be utilized for target identification and the discovery of single and combination therapeutics and strategies to treat AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V. A. Shiva Ayyadurai
- Systems Biology Group, International Center for Integrative Systems, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA;
| | - Prabhakar Deonikar
- Systems Biology Group, International Center for Integrative Systems, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA;
| | | | - Kathleen M. Sakamoto
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Eisenmann ED, Fu Q, Muhowski EM, Jin Y, Uddin ME, Garrison DA, Weber RH, Woyach JA, Byrd JC, Sparreboom A, Baker SD. Intentional Modulation of Ibrutinib Pharmacokinetics through CYP3A Inhibition. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2021; 1:79-89. [PMID: 34950932 PMCID: PMC8691714 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-21-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Ibrutinib (Imbruvica; PCI-32765) is an orally administered inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosine kinase that has transformed the treatment of B-cell malignancies. However, ibrutinib has very low oral bioavailability that contributes to significant variability in systemic exposure between patients, and this has the potential to affect both efficacy and toxicity. We hypothesized that the oral bioavailability of ibrutinib is limited by CYP3A isoform-mediated metabolism, and that this pathway can be inhibited to improve the pharmacokinetic properties of ibrutinib. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed in wild-type mice and mice genetically engineered to lack all CYP3A isoforms [CYP3A(-/-)] that received ibrutinib alone or in combination with CYP3A inhibitors cobicistat or ketoconazole. Computational modeling was performed to derive doses of ibrutinib that, when given after a CYP3A inhibitor, results in therapeutically-relevant drug levels. Deficiency of CYP3A in mice was associated with a ~10-fold increase in the area under the curve of ibrutinib. This result could be phenocopied by administration of cobicistat before ibrutinib in wild-type mice, but cobicistat did not influence levels of ibrutinib in CYP3A(-/-) mice. Population pharmacokinetic and prospectively validated physiologically-based pharmacokinetic models established preclinical and clinical doses of ibrutinib that could be given safely in combination with cobicistat without negatively affecting anti-leukemic properties. These findings signify a dominant role for CYP3A-mediated metabolism in the elimination of ibrutinib, and suggest a role for pharmacological inhibitors of this pathway to intentionally modulate the plasma levels and improve the therapeutic use of this clinically important agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric D. Eisenmann
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Qiang Fu
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Elizabeth M. Muhowski
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Yan Jin
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Muhammad Erfan Uddin
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Dominique A. Garrison
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Robert H. Weber
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jennifer A. Woyach
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - John C. Byrd
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Alex Sparreboom
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Sharyn D. Baker
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Corresponding Author: Sharyn D. Baker, Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 500 W. 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
He X, Sun H, Jiang Q, Chai Y, Li X, Wang Z, Zhu B, You S, Li B, Hao J, Xin S. Hsa-miR-4277 Decelerates the Metabolism or Clearance of Sorafenib in HCC Cells and Enhances the Sensitivity of HCC Cells to Sorafenib by Targeting cyp3a4. Front Oncol 2021; 11:735447. [PMID: 34381736 PMCID: PMC8350395 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.735447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence has shown that the metabolism and clearance of molecular targeted agents, such as sorafenib, plays an important role in mediating the resistance of HCC cells to these agents. Metabolism of sorafenib is performed by oxidative metabolism, which is initially mediated by CYP3A4. Thus, targeting CYP3A4 is a promising approach to enhance the sensitivity of HCC cells to chemotherapeutic agents. In the present work, we examined the association between CYP3A4 and the prognosis of HCC patients receiving sorafenib. Using the online tool miRDB, we predicted that has-microRNA-4277 (miR-4277), an online miRNA targets the 3’UTR of the transcript of cyp3a4. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-4277 in HCC cells repressed the expression of CYP3A4 and reduced the elimination of sorafenib in HCC cells. Moreover, miR-4277 enhanced the sensitivity of HCC cells to sorafenib in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, our results not only expand our understanding of CYP3A4 regulation in HCC, but also provide evidence for the use of miR-4277 as a potential therapeutic in advanced HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi He
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Department of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huiwei Sun
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyu Jiang
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yantao Chai
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhijie Wang
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Zhu
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Department of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shaoli You
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Department of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Boan Li
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Junfeng Hao
- Department of Nephrology, Jin Qiu Hospital of Liaoning Province/Geriatric Hospital of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Shaojie Xin
- Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Beijing, China.,Department of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Pugliese GM, Latini S, Massacci G, Perfetto L, Sacco F. Combining Mass Spectrometry-Based Phosphoproteomics with a Network-Based Approach to Reveal FLT3-Dependent Mechanisms of Chemoresistance. Proteomes 2021; 9:19. [PMID: 33925552 PMCID: PMC8167576 DOI: 10.3390/proteomes9020019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
FLT3 mutations are the most frequently identified genetic alterations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and are associated with poor clinical outcome, relapse and chemotherapeutic resistance. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying FLT3-dependent pathogenesis and drug resistance is a crucial goal of biomedical research. Given the complexity and intricacy of protein signaling networks, deciphering the molecular basis of FLT3-driven drug resistance requires a systems approach. Here we discuss how the recent advances in mass spectrometry (MS)-based (phospho) proteomics and multiparametric analysis accompanied by emerging computational approaches offer a platform to obtain and systematically analyze cell-specific signaling networks and to identify new potential therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giusj Monia Pugliese
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via delle Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (G.M.P.); (S.L.); (G.M.)
| | - Sara Latini
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via delle Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (G.M.P.); (S.L.); (G.M.)
| | - Giorgia Massacci
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via delle Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (G.M.P.); (S.L.); (G.M.)
| | - Livia Perfetto
- Fondazione Human Technopole, Department of Biology, Via Cristina Belgioioso 171, 20157 Milan, Italy;
| | - Francesca Sacco
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via delle Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (G.M.P.); (S.L.); (G.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Lee L, Hizukuri Y, Severson P, Powell B, Zhang C, Ma Y, Narahara M, Sumi H, Hernandez D, Rajkhowa T, Bollag G, Levis M. A novel combination regimen of BET and FLT3 inhibition for FLT3-ITD acute myeloid leukemia. Haematologica 2021; 106:1022-1033. [PMID: 33504139 PMCID: PMC8017818 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2020.247346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with FLT3-ITD mutations have a high risk of relapse and death. FLT3 tyrosine kinase inhibitors improve overall survival, but their efficacy is limited and most patients who relapse will ultimately die of the disease. Even with potent FLT3 inhibition, the disease persists within the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment, mainly due to BM stroma activating parallel signaling pathways that maintain pro-survival factors. BET inhibitors suppress pro-survival factors such as MYC and BCL2, but these drugs thus far have shown only limited single-agent clinical potential. We demonstrate here, using pre-clinical and clinical correlative studies, that the novel 4-azaindole derivative, PLX51107, has BET-inhibitory activity in vitro and in vivo. The combination of BET and FLT3 inhibition induces a synergistic anti-leukemic effect in a murine xenograft model of FLT3- ITD AML, and against primary FLT3-ITD AML cells co-cultured with BM stroma. Using suppression of MYC as a surrogate for BET inhibition, we demonstrate BET inhibition in human patients. The short plasma half-life of PLX51107 results in intermittent target inhibition to promote tolerability while overcoming the protective effect of the microenvironment. Mechanistically, the synergistic cytotoxicity is associated with suppression of key survival genes such as MYC. These data provide the scientific rationale for a clinical trial of a BET plus FLT3 inhibitor for the treatment of relapsed/refractory FLT3-ITD AML. A clinical trial of PLX51107 as monotherapy in patients with different malignancies is underway and will be reported separately.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Lee
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | | | | | | | | | - Yan Ma
- Plexxikon Inc., Berkeley, CA
| | | | | | - Daniela Hernandez
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Trivikram Rajkhowa
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Mark Levis
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Wang Z, Cai J, Cheng J, Yang W, Zhu Y, Li H, Lu T, Chen Y, Lu S. FLT3 Inhibitors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Challenges and Recent Developments in Overcoming Resistance. J Med Chem 2021; 64:2878-2900. [PMID: 33719439 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) gene are often present in newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with an incidence rate of approximately 30%. Recently, many FLT3 inhibitors have been developed and exhibit positive preclinical and clinical effects against AML. However, patients develop resistance soon after undergoing FLT3 inhibitor treatment, resulting in short durable responses and poor clinical effects. This review will discuss the main mechanisms of resistance to clinical FLT3 inhibitors and summarize the emerging strategies that are utilized to overcome drug resistance. Basically, medicinal chemistry efforts to develop new small-molecule FLT3 inhibitors offer a direct solution to this problem. Other potential strategies include the combination of FLT3 inhibitors with other therapies and the development of multitarget inhibitors. It is hoped that this review will provide inspiring insights into the discovery of new AML therapies that can eventually overcome the resistance to current FLT3 inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhijie Wang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, P.R. China
| | - Jiongheng Cai
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, P.R. China
| | - Jie Cheng
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, P.R. China
| | - Wenqianzi Yang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, P.R. China
| | - Yifan Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Hongmei Li
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, P.R. China
| | - Tao Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Yadong Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Design and Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Lu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Yuan B, El Dana F, Ly S, Yan Y, Ruvolo V, Shpall EJ, Konopleva M, Andreeff M, Battula VL. Bone marrow stromal cells induce an ALDH+ stem cell-like phenotype and enhance therapy resistance in AML through a TGF-β-p38-ALDH2 pathway. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242809. [PMID: 33253299 PMCID: PMC7703975 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The bone marrow microenvironment (BME) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) consists of various cell types that support the growth of AML cells and protect them from chemotherapy. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in the BME have been shown to contribute immensely to leukemogenesis and chemotherapy resistance in AML cells. However, the mechanism of stroma-induced chemotherapy resistance is not known. Here, we hypothesized that stromal cells promote a stem-like phenotype in AML cells, thereby inducing tumorigenecity and therapy resistance. To test our hypothesis, we co-cultured AML cell lines and patient samples with BM-derived MSCs and determined aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity and performed gene expression profiling by RNA sequencing. We found that the percentage of ALDH+ cells increased dramatically when AML cells were co-cultured with MSCs. However, among the 19 ALDH isoforms, ALDH2 and ALDH1L2 were the only two that were significantly upregulated in AML cells co-cultured with stromal cells compared to cells cultured alone. Mechanistic studies revealed that the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-regulated gene signature is activated in AML cells co-cultured with MSCs. Knockdown of TGF-β1 in BM-MSCs inhibited stroma-induced ALDH activity and ALDH2 expression in AML cells, whereas treatment with recombinant TGF-β1 induced the ALDH+ phenotype in AML cells. We also found that TGF-β1-induced ALDH2 expression in AML cells is mediated by the non-canonical pathway through the activation of p38. Interestingly, inhibition of ALDH2 with diadzin and CVT-10216 significantly inhibited MSC-induced ALDH activity in AML cells and sensitized them to chemotherapy, even in the presence of MSCs. Collectively, BM stroma induces ALDH2 activity in AML cells through the non-canonical TGF-β pathway. Inhibition of ALDH2 sensitizes AML cells to chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Yuan
- Department of Leukemia, Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Fouad El Dana
- Department of Leukemia, Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Stanley Ly
- Department of Leukemia, Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Yuanqing Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Vivian Ruvolo
- Department of Leukemia, Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth J. Shpall
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Leukemia, Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Michael Andreeff
- Department of Leukemia, Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Venkata Lokesh Battula
- Department of Leukemia, Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Gebru MT, Wang HG. Therapeutic targeting of FLT3 and associated drug resistance in acute myeloid leukemia. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:155. [PMID: 33213500 PMCID: PMC7678146 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00992-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease caused by several gene mutations and cytogenetic abnormalities affecting differentiation and proliferation of myeloid lineage cells. FLT3 is a receptor tyrosine kinase commonly overexpressed or mutated, and its mutations are associated with poor prognosis in AML. Although aggressive chemotherapy often followed by hematopoietic stem cell transplant is the current standard of care, the recent approval of FLT3-targeted drugs is revolutionizing AML treatment that had remained unchanged since the 1970s. However, despite the dramatic clinical response to targeted agents, such as FLT3 inhibitors, remission is almost invariably short-lived and ensued by relapse and drug resistance. Hence, there is an urgent need to understand the molecular mechanisms driving drug resistance in order to prevent relapse. In this review, we discuss FLT3 as a target and highlight current understanding of FLT3 inhibitor resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melat T Gebru
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Hong-Gang Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA. .,Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA. .,Penn State College of Medicine, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Molecular Mechanisms of Resistance to FLT3 Inhibitors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Ongoing Challenges and Future Treatments. Cells 2020; 9:cells9112493. [PMID: 33212779 PMCID: PMC7697863 DOI: 10.3390/cells9112493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3)-internal tandem duplication (ITD)-positive acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains a challenge despite the development of novel FLT3-directed tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI); the relapse rate is still high even after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. In the era of next-generation FLT3-inhibitors, such as midostaurin and gilteritinib, we still observe primary and secondary resistance to TKI both in monotherapy and in combination with chemotherapy. Moreover, remissions are frequently short-lived even in the presence of continuous treatment with next-generation FLT3 inhibitors. In this comprehensive review, we focus on molecular mechanisms underlying the development of resistance to relevant FLT3 inhibitors and elucidate how this knowledge might help to develop new concepts for improving the response to FLT3-inhibitors and reducing the development of resistance in AML. Tailored treatment approaches that address additional molecular targets beyond FLT3 could overcome resistance and facilitate molecular responses in AML.
Collapse
|
34
|
Kaweme NM, Zhou S, Changwe GJ, Zhou F. The significant role of redox system in myeloid leukemia: from pathogenesis to therapeutic applications. Biomark Res 2020; 8:63. [PMID: 33292641 PMCID: PMC7661181 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-020-00242-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the presence of a defective antioxidant system can induce cellular damage and disrupt normal physiological functions. Several studies have revealed the unfavorable role of ROS in promoting the growth, proliferation, migration, and survival of leukemia cells. In this review study, we summarize the mechanisms of ROS production and its role in leukemogenesis, counteractive effects of antioxidants, and implicate the current ROS-dependent anticancer therapies in acute myeloid leukemia. BODY: The dysregulation of the redox system is known to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of leukemia. Leukemia cells generate high levels of ROS, which further increases the levels through extra pathways, including mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic mutation, leukemic oncogene activation, increased nicotinamide adenine phosphate hydrogen (NADPH), and cytochrome P450 activities. Aforementioned pathways once activated have shown to promote genomic instability, induce drug resistance to leukemia medical therapy, disease relapse and reduce survival period. The current standard of treatment with chemotherapy employs the pro-oxidant approach to induce apoptosis and promote tumor regression. However, this approach retains several deleterious effects on the subject resulting in degradation of the quality of life. Nevertheless, the addition of an antioxidant as an adjuvant drug to chemotherapy alleviates treatment-related toxicity, increases chemotherapeutic efficacy, and improves survival rates of a patient. CONCLUSION Acute myeloid leukemia remains a daunting challenge to clinicians. The desire to achieve the maximum benefit of chemotherapy but also improve patient outcomes is investigated. ROS generated through several pathways promotes leukemogenesis, drug resistance, and disease relapse. Chemotherapy, the mainstay of treatment, further upregulates ROS levels. Therefore, the addition of an antioxidant to leukemia medical therapy alleviates toxicity and improves patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Mupeta Kaweme
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital affiliated to Wuhan University, No. 169 Donghu road, 430071, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Shu Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital affiliated to Wuhan University, No. 169 Donghu road, 430071, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Geoffrey Joseph Changwe
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 44, Wenhua West Road, Jinan, 250012, P.R. China
| | - Fuling Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital affiliated to Wuhan University, No. 169 Donghu road, 430071, Wuhan, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Novel Approaches to Target Mutant FLT3 Leukaemia. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102806. [PMID: 33003568 PMCID: PMC7600363 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a haematologic disease in which oncogenic mutations in the receptor tyrosine kinase FLT3 frequently lead to leukaemic development. Potent treatment of AML patients is still hampered by inefficient targeting of leukemic stem cells expressing constitutive active FLT3 mutants. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the regulation of FLT3 activity at cellular level and discusses therapeutical options to affect the tumor cells and the microenvironment to impair the haematological aberrations. Abstract Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) is a member of the class III receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) and is involved in cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation of haematopoietic progenitors of lymphoid and myeloid lineages. Oncogenic mutations in the FLT3 gene resulting in constitutively active FLT3 variants are frequently found in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) patients and correlate with patient’s poor survival. Targeting FLT3 mutant leukaemic stem cells (LSC) is a key to efficient treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory AML. It is therefore essential to understand how LSC escape current therapies in order to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on mechanisms of FLT3 activity regulation and its cellular consequences. Furthermore, we discuss how aberrant FLT3 signalling cooperates with other oncogenic lesions and the microenvironment to drive haematopoietic malignancies and how this can be harnessed for therapeutical purposes.
Collapse
|
36
|
Eguchi M, Minami Y, Kuzume A, Chi S. Mechanisms Underlying Resistance to FLT3 Inhibitors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8080245. [PMID: 32722298 PMCID: PMC7459983 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8080245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
FLT3-ITD and FLT3-TKD mutations were observed in approximately 20 and 10% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cases, respectively. FLT3 inhibitors such as midostaurin, gilteritinib and quizartinib show excellent response rates in patients with FLT3-mutated AML, but its duration of response may not be sufficient yet. The majority of cases gain secondary resistance either by on-target and off-target abnormalities. On-target mutations (i.e., FLT3-TKD) such as D835Y keep the TK domain in its active form, abrogating pharmacodynamics of type II FLT3 inhibitors (e.g., midostaurin and quizartinib). Second generation type I inhibitors such as gilteritinib are consistently active against FLT3-TKD as well as FLT3-ITD. However, a “gatekeeper” mutation F691L shows universal resistance to all currently available FLT3 inhibitors. Off-target abnormalities are consisted with a variety of somatic mutations such as NRAS, AXL and PIM1 that bypass or reinforce FLT3 signaling. Off-target mutations can occur just in the primary FLT3-mutated clone or be gained by the evolution of other clones. A small number of cases show primary resistance by an FL-dependent, FGF2-dependent, and stromal CYP3A4-mediated manner. To overcome these mechanisms, the development of novel agents such as covalently-coupling FLT3 inhibitor FF-10101 and the investigation of combination therapy with different class agents are now ongoing. Along with novel agents, gene sequencing may improve clinical approaches by detecting additional targetable mutations and determining individual patterns of clonal evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Motoki Eguchi
- Department of Hematology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa 277-8577, Japan; (M.E.); (A.K.); (S.C.)
| | - Yosuke Minami
- Department of Hematology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa 277-8577, Japan; (M.E.); (A.K.); (S.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-4-7133-1111; Fax: +81-7133-6502
| | - Ayumi Kuzume
- Department of Hematology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa 277-8577, Japan; (M.E.); (A.K.); (S.C.)
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kameda Medical Center, Kamogawa 296-8602, Japan
| | - SungGi Chi
- Department of Hematology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa 277-8577, Japan; (M.E.); (A.K.); (S.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Kazianka L, Staber PB. The Bone's Role in Myeloid Neoplasia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4712. [PMID: 32630305 PMCID: PMC7369750 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21134712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The interaction of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells with their direct neighboring cells in the bone marrow (the so called hematopoietic niche) evolves as a key principle for understanding physiological and malignant hematopoiesis. Significant progress in this matter has recently been achieved making use of emerging high-throughput techniques that allow characterization of the bone marrow microenvironment at single cell resolution. This review aims to discuss these single cell findings in the light of other conventional niche studies that together define the current notion of the niche's implication in i) normal hematopoiesis, ii) myeloid neoplasms and iii) disease-driving pathways that can be exploited to establish novel therapeutic strategies in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Philipp B Staber
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Stemler J, Koehler P, Maurer C, Müller C, Cornely OA. Antifungal prophylaxis and novel drugs in acute myeloid leukemia: the midostaurin and posaconazole dilemma. Ann Hematol 2020; 99:1429-1440. [PMID: 32514626 PMCID: PMC7316674 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-020-04107-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
With the advent of new targeted drugs in hematology and oncology patient prognosis is improved. Combination with antifungal prophylaxis challenges clinicians due to pharmacological profiles prone to drug–drug interactions (DDI). Midostaurin is a novel agent for FLT3-TKD/-ITDmut-acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and metabolized via cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Posaconazole is a standard of care antifungal agent used for prophylaxis during induction treatment of AML and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Concomitant administration of both drugs leads to elevated midostaurin exposure. Both drugs improve overall survival at low numbers needed to treat. The impact of CYP3A4-related DDI remains to be determined. Severe adverse events have been observed; however, it remains unclear if they can be directly linked to DDI. The lack of prospective clinical studies assessing incidence of invasive fungal infections and clinical impact of DDI contributes to neglecting live-saving antifungal prophylaxis. Management strategies to combine both drugs have been proposed, but evidence on which approach to use is scarce. In this review, we discuss several approaches in the specific clinical setting of concomitant administration of midostaurin and posaconazole and give examples from everyday clinical practice. Therapeutic drug monitoring will become increasingly important to individualize and personalize antineoplastic concomitant and antifungal treatment in the context of DDI. Pharmaceutical companies addressing the issue in clinical trials may take a pioneer role in this field. Other recently developed and approved drugs for the treatment of AML likely inhere potential of DDI marking a foreseeable issue in future treatment of this life-threatening disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jannik Stemler
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Philipp Koehler
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christian Maurer
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Carsten Müller
- Centre of Pharmacology, Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, Faculty of Medicine, Cologne, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Oliver A Cornely
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany. .,Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany. .,German Centre for Infection Research, Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany. .,Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Köln), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Inbar T, Sobeh Khalil S, Ram R, Ganzel C, Ofran Y. Low risk for viral reactivation during induction for acute myeloid leukemia in patients with resolved hepatitis B infection. Leuk Lymphoma 2020; 61:1260-1262. [DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2019.1702187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tsofia Inbar
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Ron Ram
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Chezi Ganzel
- Department of Hematology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yishai Ofran
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Technion, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Lam SS, Leung AY. Overcoming Resistance to FLT3 Inhibitors in the Treatment of FLT3-Mutated AML. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1537. [PMID: 32102366 PMCID: PMC7073218 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) carrying internal tandem duplication (ITD) of Fms-Like Tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) gene is associated with high risk of relapse and poor clinical outcome upon treatment with conventional chemotherapy. FLT3 inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of this AML subtype but leukaemia relapse remains to be a major cause of treatment failure. Mechanisms of drug resistance have been proposed, including evolution of resistant leukaemic clones; adaptive cellular mechanisms and a protective leukaemic microenvironment. These models have provided important leads that may inform design of clinical trials. Clinically, FLT3 inhibitors in combination with conventional chemotherapy as induction treatment for fit patients; with low-intensity treatment as salvage treatment or induction for unfit patients as well as maintenance treatment with FLT3 inhibitors post HSCT hold promise to improve survival in this AML subtype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anskar Y.H. Leung
- Division of Haematology, Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Gurnari C, Voso MT, Maciejewski JP, Visconte V. From Bench to Bedside and Beyond: Therapeutic Scenario in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12020357. [PMID: 32033196 PMCID: PMC7072629 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12020357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous group of clonal disorders characterized by abnormal proliferation of undifferentiated myeloid progenitors, impaired hematopoiesis, and variable response to therapy. To date, only about 30% of adult patients with AML become long-term survivors and relapse and/or disease refractoriness are the major cause of treatment failure. Thus, this is an urgent unmet clinical need and new drugs are envisaged in order to ameliorate disease survival outcomes. Here, we review the latest therapeutic approaches (investigational and approved agents) for AML treatment. A specific focus will be given to molecularly targeted therapies for AML as a representation of possible agents for precision medicine. We will discuss experimental and preclinical data for FLT3, IDH1, BCL-2, Hedgehog pathway inhibitors, and epitherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Gurnari
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (C.G.); (J.P.M.)
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Teresa Voso
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- Neuro-Oncohematology Unit, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.), 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Jaroslaw P. Maciejewski
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (C.G.); (J.P.M.)
| | - Valeria Visconte
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (C.G.); (J.P.M.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Kiyoi H, Kawashima N, Ishikawa Y. FLT3 mutations in acute myeloid leukemia: Therapeutic paradigm beyond inhibitor development. Cancer Sci 2019; 111:312-322. [PMID: 31821677 PMCID: PMC7004512 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) is a type III receptor tyrosine kinase that plays an important role in hematopoietic cell survival, proliferation and differentiation. The most clinically important point is that mutation of the FLT3 gene is the most frequent genetic alteration and a poor prognostic factor in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. There are two major types of FLT3 mutations: internal tandem duplication mutations in the juxtamembrane domain (FLT3-ITD) and point mutations or deletion in the tyrosine kinase domain (FLT3-TKD). Both mutant FLT3 molecules are activated through ligand-independent dimerization and trans-phosphorylation. Mutant FLT3 induces the activation of multiple intracellular signaling pathways, mainly STAT5, MAPK and AKT signals, leading to cell proliferation and anti-apoptosis. Because high-dose chemotherapy and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation cannot sufficiently improve the prognosis, clinical development of FLT3 kinase inhibitors expected. Although several FLT3 inhibitors have been developed, it takes more than 20 years from the first identification of FLT3 mutations until FLT3 inhibitors become clinically available for AML patients with FLT3 mutations. To date, three FLT3 inhibitors have been clinically approved as monotherapy or combination therapy with conventional chemotherapeutic agents in Japan and/or Europe and United states. However, several mechanisms of resistance to FLT3 inhibitors have already become apparent during their clinical trials. The resistance mechanisms are complex and emerging resistant clones are heterogenous. Further basic and clinical studies are required to establish the best therapeutic strategy for AML patients with FLT3 mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Kiyoi
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Naomi Kawashima
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuichi Ishikawa
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Not Only Mutations Matter: Molecular Picture of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Emerging from Transcriptome Studies. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2019; 2019:7239206. [PMID: 31467542 PMCID: PMC6699387 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7239206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The last two decades of genome-scale research revealed a complex molecular picture of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). On the one hand, a number of mutations were discovered and associated with AML diagnosis and prognosis; some of them were introduced into diagnostic tests. On the other hand, transcriptome studies, which preceded AML exome and genome sequencing, remained poorly translated into clinics. Nevertheless, gene expression studies significantly contributed to the elucidation of AML pathogenesis and indicated potential therapeutic directions. The power of transcriptomic approach lies in its comprehensiveness; we can observe how genome manifests its function in a particular type of cells and follow many genes in one test. Moreover, gene expression measurement can be combined with mutation detection, as high-impact mutations are often present in transcripts. This review sums up 20 years of transcriptome research devoted to AML. Gene expression profiling (GEP) revealed signatures distinctive for selected AML subtypes and uncovered the additional within-subtype heterogeneity. The results were particularly valuable in the case of AML with normal karyotype which concerns up to 50% of AML cases. With the use of GEP, new classes of the disease were identified and prognostic predictors were proposed. A plenty of genes were detected as overexpressed in AML when compared to healthy control, including KIT, BAALC, ERG, MN1, CDX2, WT1, PRAME, and HOX genes. High expression of these genes constitutes usually an unfavorable prognostic factor. Upregulation of FLT3 and NPM1 genes, independent on their mutation status, was also reported in AML and correlated with poor outcome. However, transcriptome is not limited to the protein-coding genes; other types of RNA molecules exist in a cell and regulate genome function. It was shown that microRNA (miRNA) profiles differentiated AML groups and predicted outcome not worse than protein-coding gene profiles. For example, upregulation of miR-10a, miR-10b, and miR-196b and downregulation of miR-192 were found as typical of AML with NPM1 mutation whereas overexpression of miR-155 was associated with FLT3-internal tandem duplication (FLT3-ITD). Development of high-throughput technologies and microarray replacement by next generation sequencing (RNA-seq) enabled uncovering a real variety of leukemic cell transcriptomes, reflected by gene fusions, chimeric RNAs, alternatively spliced transcripts, miRNAs, piRNAs, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and their special type, circular RNAs. Many of them can be considered as AML biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. The relations between particular RNA puzzles and other components of leukemic cells and their microenvironment, such as exosomes, are now under investigation. Hopefully, the results of this research will shed the light on these aspects of AML pathogenesis which are still not completely understood.
Collapse
|
44
|
Milan T, Canaj H, Villeneuve C, Ghosh A, Barabé F, Cellot S, Wilhelm BT. Pediatric leukemia: Moving toward more accurate models. Exp Hematol 2019; 74:1-12. [PMID: 31154068 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Leukemia is a complex genetic disease caused by errors in differentiation, growth, and apoptosis of hematopoietic cells in either lymphoid or myeloid lineages. Large-scale genomic characterization of thousands of leukemia patients has produced a tremendous amount of data that have enabled a better understanding of the differences between adult and pediatric patients. For instance, although phenotypically similar, pediatric and adult myeloid leukemia patients differ in their mutational profiles, typically involving either chromosomal translocations or recurrent single-base-pair mutations, respectively. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the biology of this cancer, continual efforts have been made to develop more contextually and biologically relevant experimental models. Leukemic cell lines, for example, provide an inexpensive and tractable model but often fail to recapitulate critical aspects of tumor biology. Likewise, murine leukemia models of leukemia have been highly informative but also do not entirely reproduce the human disease. More recent advances in the development of patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) or human models of leukemias are poised to provide a more comprehensive, and biologically relevant, approach to directly assess the impact of the in vivo environment on human samples. In this review, the advantages and limitations of the various current models used to functionally define the genetic requirements of leukemogenesis are discussed.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Animals
- Cell Differentiation
- Child
- Child, Preschool
- Female
- Heterografts
- Humans
- Infant
- Infant, Newborn
- Leukemia, Myeloid/genetics
- Leukemia, Myeloid/pathology
- Leukemia, Myeloid/therapy
- Male
- Mice
- Neoplasm Transplantation
- Neoplasms, Experimental/genetics
- Neoplasms, Experimental/metabolism
- Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Neoplasms, Experimental/therapy
- Translocation, Genetic
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Milan
- Laboratory for High Throughput Biology, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Hera Canaj
- Laboratory for High Throughput Biology, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Chloe Villeneuve
- Laboratory for High Throughput Biology, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Aditi Ghosh
- Laboratory for High Throughput Biology, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Frédéric Barabé
- Centre de recherche en infectiologie du CHUL, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Quebec City, QC, Canada; CHU de Québec Hôpital Enfant-Jésus, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Sonia Cellot
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Ste-Justine Hospital, Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Brian T Wilhelm
- Laboratory for High Throughput Biology, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|