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Dundr P, Machado-Lopez A, Mas A, Věcková Z, Mára M, Richtárová A, Matěj R, Stružinská I, Kendall Bártů M, Němejcová K, Dvořák J, Hojný J. Uterine leiomyoma with RAD51B::NUDT3 fusion: a report of 2 cases. Virchows Arch 2024; 484:1015-1022. [PMID: 37466765 PMCID: PMC11186871 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-023-03603-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Three main uterine leiomyoma molecular subtypes include tumors with MED12 mutation, molecular aberrations leading to HMGA2 overexpression, and biallelic loss of FH. These aberrations are mutually exclusive and can be found in approximately 80-90% of uterine leiomyoma, in which they seem to be a driver event. Approximately 10% of uterine leiomyoma, however, does not belong to any of these categories. Uterine leiomyoma with HMGA2 overexpression is the most common subtype in cellular and second most common category of usual leiomyoma. In some of these tumors, rearrangement of HMGA2 gene is present. The most common fusion partner of HMGA2 gene is RAD51B. Limited data suggests that RAD51B fusions with other genes may be present in uterine leiomyoma. In our study, we described two cases of uterine leiomyoma with RAD51B::NUDT3 fusion, which occur in one case of usual and one case of highly cellular leiomyoma. In both cases, no other driver molecular aberrations were found. The results of our study showed that RAD51::NUDT3 fusion can occur in both usual and cellular leiomyoma. RAD51B may be a fusion partner of multiple genes other than HMGA2 and HMGA1. In these cases, RAD51B fusion seems to be mutually exclusive with other driver aberrations defining molecular leiomyoma subtypes. RAD51B::NUDT3 fusion should be added to the spectrum of fusions which may occur in uterine leiomyoma, which can be of value especially in cellular leiomyoma in the context of differential diagnosis against endometrial stromal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Dundr
- Department of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 128 00, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Alba Machado-Lopez
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010, Valencia, Spain
| | - Aymara Mas
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, 46010, Valencia, Spain
| | - Zuzana Věcková
- Department of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 128 00, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Mára
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adéla Richtárová
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radoslav Matěj
- Department of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 128 00, Prague 2, Czech Republic
- Department of Pathology, Charles University, 3rd Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Thomayer University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ivana Stružinská
- Department of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 128 00, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Kendall Bártů
- Department of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 128 00, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Němejcová
- Department of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 128 00, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Dvořák
- Department of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 128 00, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Hojný
- Department of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 128 00, Prague 2, Czech Republic
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2
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Ramaiyer MS, Saad E, Kurt I, Borahay MA. Genetic Mechanisms Driving Uterine Leiomyoma Pathobiology, Epidemiology, and Treatment. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:558. [PMID: 38790186 PMCID: PMC11121260 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050558] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (ULs) are the most common benign tumor of the uterus. They can be associated with symptoms including abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, urinary frequency, and pregnancy complications. Despite the high prevalence of UL, its underlying pathophysiology mechanisms have historically been poorly understood. Several mechanisms of pathogenesis have been suggested, implicating various genes, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and microRNA aberrations. The purpose of this study is to summarize the current research on the relationship of genetics with UL. Specifically, we performed a literature review of published studies to identify how genetic aberrations drive pathophysiology, epidemiology, and therapeutic approaches of UL. With regards to pathophysiology, research has identified MED12 mutations, HMGA2 overexpression, fumarate hydratase deficiency, and cytogenetic abnormalities as contributors to the development of UL. Additionally, epigenetic modifications, such as histone acetylation and DNA methylation, have been identified as contributing to UL tumorigenesis. Specifically, UL stem cells have been found to contain a unique DNA methylation pattern compared to more differentiated UL cells, suggesting that DNA methylation has a role in tumorigenesis. On a population level, genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and epidemiologic analyses have identified 23 genetic loci associated with younger age at menarche and UL growth. Additionally, various GWASs have investigated genetic loci as potential drivers of racial disparities in UL incidence. For example, decreased expression of Cytohesin 4 in African Americans has been associated with increased UL risk. Recent studies have investigated various therapeutic options, including ten-eleven translocation proteins mediating DNA methylation, adenovirus vectors for drug delivery, and "suicide gene therapy" to induce apoptosis. Overall, improved understanding of the genetic and epigenetic drivers of UL on an individual and population level can propel the discovery of novel therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eslam Saad
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, 720 Rutland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (E.S.); (I.K.)
| | - Irem Kurt
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, 720 Rutland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (E.S.); (I.K.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Selcuk University, 42000 Konya, Turkey
| | - Mostafa A. Borahay
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, 720 Rutland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (E.S.); (I.K.)
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3
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Yin X, Wei X, Al Shamsi R, Ali FS, Al Kindi F, Zhang X, Liang J, Pan X, Al Masqari M, Zheng L, Zhou Q, Agaimy A, Chen N. Benign metastasizing fumarate hydratase (FH)-deficient uterine leiomyomas: clinicopathological and molecular study with first documentation of multi-organ metastases. Virchows Arch 2024:10.1007/s00428-024-03806-8. [PMID: 38642139 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-024-03806-8] [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: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Leiomyoma is the most prevalent benign tumor of the female reproductive system. Benign metastasizing leiomyoma (BML) is a rare phenomenon that presents at distant sites, typically the lungs, exhibiting histopathological features similar to the primary uterine tumor in the absence of malignancy features in both. Fumarate hydratase-deficient uterine leiomyoma (FH-d UL) is an uncommon subtype among uterine smooth muscle tumors (0.5-2%), showing distinctive histomorphology and FH inactivation. The majority of FH-d ULs are sporadic, caused by somatic FH inactivation, while a minority of cases occur in the context of the hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma (HLRCC) syndrome caused by germline FH inactivation. Metastasizing FH-d UL has not been well documented and might be under-reported. Here, we present two cases (21- and 34-year-old females) who presented with metastasizing FH-d UL after myomectomy/hysterectomy with histologically proven multiple lung metastases in both, in addition to multi-organ involvement in one case (cervical-thoracic lymph nodes, left kidney, perihepatic region, left zygomatic bone, and soft tissues). Pathological examination confirmed FH-d leiomyomas in the primary/recurrent uterine tumors, multiple lung lesions, and a renal mass. The minimal criteria for diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma were not fulfilled. Genetic testing revealed germline pathogenic FH variants in both cases (c.1256C > T; p.Ser419Leu in Case 1 and c.425A > G; p.Gln142Arg in Case 2). These novel cases highlight a rare but possibly under-recognized presentation of FH-d BML. Our study suggests that FH-d BML cases might be enriched for the HLRCC syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxue Yin
- Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoxia Wei
- Department of Pathology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruqaiya Al Shamsi
- Department of Pathology, The Royal Hospital, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Fatima S Ali
- Department of Pathology, The Royal Hospital, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Faiza Al Kindi
- Department of Radiology, The Royal Hospital, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Xingming Zhang
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiayu Liang
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiuyi Pan
- Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | | | - Linmao Zheng
- Laboratory of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiao Zhou
- Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Abbas Agaimy
- Institute of Pathology, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center, European Metropolitan Area Erlangen-Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Ni Chen
- Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
- Laboratory of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Pinto A. Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumors: An Overview. Adv Anat Pathol 2024:00125480-990000000-00103. [PMID: 38647238 DOI: 10.1097/pap.0000000000000446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Uterine smooth muscle tumors are a heterogeneous group of mesenchymal neoplasms with multiple histologic variants and distinct biological behaviors. Pathologic classification (benign, uncertain malignant potential, malignant) relies on the evaluation of mitotic index, necrosis, and degree of cytologic atypia, with different thresholds based on each subtype. Immunohistochemistry and other ancillary studies may be necessary to establish the diagnosis in a subset of cases, given the morphologic overlap with other mesenchymal neoplasms, including low-grade and high-grade endometrial stromal tumors, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors, and PEComa. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics have refined the classification of smooth muscle tumors, but most cases are diagnosed purely on histologic grounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Pinto
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
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Amal C, Fadwa A, Aicha G, Boufetal H, Mahdaoui S, Samouh N. Uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) ABOUT a CASE. Int J Surg Case Rep 2024; 117:109556. [PMID: 38518473 PMCID: PMC10972788 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2024.109556] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE Uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) is rare tumor, and regarded as sub-classification in uterine smooth muscle tumors between benign and malignant criteria. They represent a heterogeneous group of rare tumors. PRESENTATION OF CASE We report a case of a STUMP tumor in a fifty-three-year-old patient who underwent surgery for a hysterectomy. DISCUSSION STUMP often presents with nonspecific clinical manifestation the only confirmatory examination is anatomopathological and may be supported by immunohistochemistry, hysterectomy is currently considered the gold standard of treatment. CONCLUSION Uterine STUMP tumor represents a therapeutic dilemma. A multidisciplinary approach is mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherkaoui Amal
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University Hospital Ibn Rochd, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco.
| | - Atfi Fadwa
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University Hospital Ibn Rochd, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Gotni Aicha
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University Hospital Ibn Rochd, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Houssine Boufetal
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University Hospital Ibn Rochd, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Sakher Mahdaoui
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University Hospital Ibn Rochd, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Naima Samouh
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University Hospital Ibn Rochd, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco
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Zhu J, Li S, Zhuang Z, Chen H, Chen C, Zhu J. Fumarate hydratase mutation associated uterine leiomyomas: A case report and literature review. Clin Case Rep 2024; 12:e8526. [PMID: 38590329 PMCID: PMC10999564 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.8526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The patient was found to have multiple uterine myomas at the age of 19, underwent laparoscopic myomectomy at the age of 20, and underwent laparotomic myomectomy again at the age of 23 due to the recurrence of uterine myoma. At the age of 25, the patient reappeared with symptoms and recurrence, and was diagnosed with uterine leiomyomas (ULMs) of FH mutation and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL/CIN III) with gland involvement, after complete examination. Fumarate hydratase (FH) mutation screening is important when gynecologists encounter patients with early onset and multiple ULMs, it can give early diagnosis and treatment and fertility guidance. The patient had their uterus removed at the age of 26. FH mutation screening is important when gynecologists encounter patients with early onset and multiple ULMs, it can give early diagnosis and treatment and fertility guidance. It is also helpful for early diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Shanji Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Zhiguo Zhuang
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Pathology, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Chao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
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Cox JH, McCain RS, Tran E, Swaminathan S, Smith HH, Piroli GG, Shtutman M, Walla MD, Cotham WE, Frizzell N. Quantification of the immunometabolite protein modifications S-2-succinocysteine and 2,3-dicarboxypropylcysteine. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2024; 326:E407-E416. [PMID: 38324261 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00354.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
The tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle metabolite fumarate nonenzymatically reacts with the amino acid cysteine to form S-(2-succino)cysteine (2SC), referred to as protein succination. The immunometabolite itaconate accumulates during lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation of macrophages and microglia. Itaconate nonenzymatically reacts with cysteine residues to generate 2,3-dicarboxypropylcysteine (2,3-DCP), referred to as protein dicarboxypropylation. Since fumarate and itaconate levels dynamically change in activated immune cells, the levels of both 2SC and 2,3-DCP reflect the abundance of these metabolites and their capacity to modify protein thiols. We generated ethyl esters of 2SC and 2,3-DCP from protein hydrolysates and used stable isotope dilution mass spectrometry to determine the abundance of these in LPS-stimulated Highly Aggressively Proliferating Immortalized (HAPI) microglia. To quantify the stoichiometry of the succination and dicarboxypropylation, reduced cysteines were alkylated with iodoacetic acid to form S-carboxymethylcysteine (CMC), which was then esterified. Itaconate-derived 2,3-DCP, but not fumarate-derived 2SC, increased in LPS-treated HAPI microglia. Stoichiometric measurements demonstrated that 2,3-DCP increased from 1.57% to 9.07% of total cysteines upon LPS stimulation. This methodology to simultaneously distinguish and quantify both 2SC and 2,3-DCP will have broad applications in the physiology of metabolic diseases. In addition, we find that available anti-2SC antibodies also detect the structurally similar 2,3-DCP, therefore "succinate moiety" may better describe the antigen recognized.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Itaconate and fumarate have roles as immunometabolites modulating the macrophage response to inflammation. Both immunometabolites chemically modify protein cysteine residues to modulate the immune response. Itaconate and fumarate levels change dynamically, whereas their stable protein modifications can be quantified by mass spectrometry. This method distinguishes itaconate and fumarate-derived protein modifications and will allow researchers to quantify their contributions in isolated cell types and tissues across a range of metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Hunter Cox
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
| | - Richard S McCain
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
| | - Emery Tran
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
| | - Shoba Swaminathan
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
| | - Holland H Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
| | - Gerardo G Piroli
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
| | - Michael Shtutman
- Department of Drug Discovery & Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
| | - Michael D Walla
- Mass Spectrometry Center, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
| | - William E Cotham
- Mass Spectrometry Center, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
| | - Norma Frizzell
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States
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8
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Khan NH, McNally R, Kim JJ, Wei JJ. Racial disparity in uterine leiomyoma: new insights of genetic and environmental burden in myometrial cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2024; 30:gaae004. [PMID: 38290796 PMCID: PMC10904341 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaae004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyoma (LM), also known as uterine fibroids, are common gynecological tumors and can reach a prevalence of 70% among women by the age of 50 years. Notably, the LM burden is much higher in Black women with earlier onset, a greater tumor number, size, and severity compared to White women. Published knowledge shows that there are genetic, environmental, and lifestyle-based risk factors associated with racial disparity for LM. Significant strides have been made on genomic, epigenomic, and transcriptomic data levels in Black and White women to elucidate the underlying pathomolecular reasons of racial disparity in LM development. However, racial disparity of LM remains a major area of concern in gynecological research. This review highlights risk factors of LM and their role in different races. Furthermore, we discuss the genetics and uterine myometrial microenvironment in LM development. Comparative findings revealed that a major racial difference in the disease is linked to myometrial oxidative burden and altered ROS pathways which is relevant to the oxidized guanine in genomic DNA and MED12 mutations that drive the LM genesis. Considering the burden and morbidity of LM, we anticipate that this review on genetic risk and myometrial microenvironment will strengthen understanding and propel the growth of research to address the racial disparity of LM burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazeer H Khan
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ross McNally
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - J Julie Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jian-Jun Wei
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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9
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Laganà AS, Romano A, Vanhie A, Bafort C, Götte M, Aaltonen LA, Mas A, De Bruyn C, Van den Bosch T, Coosemans A, Guerriero S, Haimovich S, Tanos V, Bongers M, Barra F, Al-Hendy A, Chiantera V, Leone Roberti Maggiore U. Management of Uterine Fibroids and Sarcomas: The Palermo Position Paper. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2024; 89:73-86. [PMID: 38382486 DOI: 10.1159/000537730] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine fibroids are benign monoclonal tumors originating from the smooth muscle cells of the myometrium, constituting the most prevalent pathology within the female genital tract. Uterine sarcomas, although rare, still represent a diagnostic challenge and should be managed in centers with adequate expertise in gynecological oncology. OBJECTIVES This article is aimed to summarize and discuss cutting-edge elements about the diagnosis and management of uterine fibroids and sarcomas. METHODS This paper is a report of the lectures presented in an expert meeting about uterine fibroids and sarcomas held in Palermo in February 2023. OUTCOME Overall, the combination of novel molecular pathways may help combine biomarkers and expert ultrasound for the differential diagnosis of uterine fibroids and sarcomas. On the one hand, molecular and cellular maps of uterine fibroids and matched myometrium may enhance our understanding of tumor development compared to histologic analysis and whole tissue transcriptomics, and support the development of minimally invasive treatment strategies; on the other hand, ultrasound imaging allows in most of the cases a proper mapping the fibroids and to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, which need appropriate management. CONCLUSIONS AND OUTLOOK The choice of uterine fibroid management, including pharmacological approaches, surgical treatment, or other strategies, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), should be carefully considered, taking into account the characteristics of the patient and reproductive prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Simone Laganà
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Paolo Giaccone" Hospital, Palermo, Italy
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Romano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, GROW-School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Arne Vanhie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leuven University Fertility Center, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration - Woman and Child, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Celine Bafort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leuven University Fertility Center, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration - Woman and Child, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Martin Götte
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Munster, Germany
| | - Lauri A Aaltonen
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, Research Programs Unit, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Aymara Mas
- Carlos Simon Foundation - INCLIVA Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Christine De Bruyn
- Department of Development and Regeneration - Woman and Child, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Thierry Van den Bosch
- Department of Development and Regeneration - Woman and Child, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - An Coosemans
- Department of Oncology, Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefano Guerriero
- Centro Integrato di Procreazione Medicalmente Assistita (PMA) e Diagnostica Ostetrico-Ginecologica, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria-Policlinico Duilio Casula, Monserrato, Italy
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sergio Haimovich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laniado University Hospital, Netanya, Israel
- Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Vasilios Tanos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaeio Hospital, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Marlies Bongers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, GROW-School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Máxima Medical Centre, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Fabio Barra
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, P.O. "Ospedale del Tigullio" - ASL4, Metropolitan Area of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Vito Chiantera
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Unit of Gynecologic Oncology, National Cancer Institute - IRCCS - Fondazione "G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
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Amendola ILS, Spann M, Segars J, Singh B. The Mediator Complex Subunit 12 (MED-12) Gene and Uterine Fibroids: a Systematic Review. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:291-308. [PMID: 37516697 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01297-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are the most common tumor of reproductive-age women worldwide. Although benign, uterine fibroids cause significant morbidity and adversely impact the quality of life for affected women. Somatic mutations in the exon 2 of the mediator complex subunit 12 (MED-12) gene represent the most common single gene mutation associated with uterine leiomyomas. The objective of this review was to evaluate the current role of MED-12 mutation in the pathophysiology of uterine fibroids, to assess the prevalence of MED-12 mutation among different populations, and to identify the most common subtypes of MED-12 mutations found in uterine fibroids. A comprehensive search was conducted using Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, and the Web of Science. English-language publications that evaluated MED-12 mutation and uterine fibroids in humans, whether experimental or clinical, were considered. We identified 380 studies, of which 23 were included, comprising 1353 patients and 1872 fibroid tumors. Of the total number of tumors analyzed, 1045 (55.8%) harbored a MED-12 mutation. Among the 23 studies included, the frequency of MED-12 mutation varied from 31.1 to 80% in fibroid samples. The most common type of MED-12 mutation was a heterozygous missense mutation affecting codon 44 of exon 2, specifically the nucleotide 131. Studies reported that MED-12 mutation acts by increasing levels of AKT and disrupting the cyclin C-CDK8/19 kinase activity. The overall average prevalence of MED-12 mutation in uterine fibroids was found to be 55.8% across the global population, though the frequency varied greatly among different countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabela Landsteiner Sampaio Amendola
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Ross Research Building, Room 624, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Marcus Spann
- Informationist Services, Welch Medical Library, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - James Segars
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Ross Research Building, Room 624, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Bhuchitra Singh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Ross Research Building, Room 624, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Kuznetsova MV, Tonoyan NM, Trubnikova EV, Zelensky DV, Svirepova KA, Adamyan LV, Trofimov DY, Sukhikh GT. Novel Approaches to Possible Targeted Therapies and Prophylaxis of Uterine Fibroids. Diseases 2023; 11:156. [PMID: 37987267 PMCID: PMC10660464 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11040156] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors in women of childbearing age. They may lead to problems of conception or complications during the gestational period. The methods of treatment include surgical (myomectomy and hysterectomy, embolization of arteries) and therapeutic treatment (ulipristal acetate, leuprolide acetate, cetrorelix, goserelin, mifepristone). Both approaches are efficient but incompatible with pregnancy planning. Therefore, there is a call for medical practice to develop therapeutical means of preventing leiomyoma onset in patients planning on becoming pregnant. Based on the analysis of GWAS data on the search for mononucleotide polymorphisms associated with the risk of leiomyoma, in meta-transcriptomic and meta-methylomic studies, target proteins have been proposed. Prospective therapeutic treatments of leiomyoma may be based on chemical compounds, humanized recombinant antibodies, vaccines based on markers of the uterine leiomyoma cells that are absent in the adult organism, or DNA and RNA preparations. Three different nosological forms of the disease associated with driver mutations in the MED12, HMGA2, and FH genes should be considered when developing or prescribing drugs. For example, synthetic inhibitors and vaccines based on matrix metalloproteinases MMP11 and MMP16 are expected to be effective only for the prevention of the occurrence of MED12-dependent nodules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V. Kuznetsova
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.K.); (N.M.T.); (K.A.S.); (L.V.A.); (D.Y.T.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Narine M. Tonoyan
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.K.); (N.M.T.); (K.A.S.); (L.V.A.); (D.Y.T.); (G.T.S.)
| | | | | | - Ksenia A. Svirepova
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.K.); (N.M.T.); (K.A.S.); (L.V.A.); (D.Y.T.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Leila V. Adamyan
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.K.); (N.M.T.); (K.A.S.); (L.V.A.); (D.Y.T.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Dmitry Y. Trofimov
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.K.); (N.M.T.); (K.A.S.); (L.V.A.); (D.Y.T.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Gennady T. Sukhikh
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.K.); (N.M.T.); (K.A.S.); (L.V.A.); (D.Y.T.); (G.T.S.)
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12
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Rodriguez Pena MDC, Mubeen A, Harada S, Prieto Granada CN. An Unusual Benign Uterine Stromal Spindle Cell Tumor Harboring JAZF1::BCORL1. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2023; 42:319-324. [PMID: 35838627 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000000894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Uterine mesenchymal lesions demonstrate various underlying genomic alterations involving MED12 , JAZF1 , YWHAE , BCOR , and ALK genes, among others. Recent publications describe a subset of high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma lesions harboring BCORL1 gene aberrations including JAZF1::BCORL1 . Herein, we present an unusual benign endomyometrial spindle cell lesion that defies classificatory efforts by demonstrating mixed histomorphologic and immunohistochemical features of endometrial stromal nodule, leiomyoma, and uterine inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor while harboring a JAZF1::BCORL1 . The lesion was found in a 43-yr-old woman with pelvic pain and heavy menses as a 5.5 cm well-circumscribed ulcerated mass fungating from the cervical os. Microscopic examination revealed a polypoid, well-circumscribed, moderately cellular endomyometrial tumor composed by bland spindle cells haphazardly disposed within a slightly edematous stroma enriched by a delicate network of thin-walled vessels that were occasionally encircled by the tumor cells. Unequivocal evidence of tongue-like growth pattern into the myometrium, tumor-type necrosis or increased mitotic activity was not identified after sampling the entire lesion. The lesion showed patchy immunoreactivity for both smooth muscle actin-alpha and desmin while negative for CD10, HMB45, ALK (D5F3), and BCOR. An Archer FusionPlex panel assay demonstrated a fusion involving both exons 4 from the JAZF1 and BCORL1 genes. The JAZF1::BCORL1 has not, to the best of our knowledge, been previously reported in a benign/low-grade mesenchymal uterine lesion.
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Momeni-Boroujeni A, Yousefi E, Balakrishnan R, Riviere S, Kertowidjojo E, Hensley ML, Ladanyi M, Ellenson LH, Chiang S. Molecular-Based Immunohistochemical Algorithm for Uterine Leiomyosarcoma Diagnosis. Mod Pathol 2023; 36:100084. [PMID: 36788080 PMCID: PMC10191186 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2022.100084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The morphologic assessment of uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS) may be challenging, and diagnostic immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis is currently lacking. We evaluated the genomic landscape of 167 uterine LMS by targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) to identify common genomic alterations. IHC analyses corresponding to these genomic landmarks were applied to a test cohort of 16 uterine LMS, 6 smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP), and 6 leiomyomas with NGS data and a validation cohort of 8 uterine LMS, 12 STUMP, 21 leiomyomas and leiomyoma variants, 7 low-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas, and 2 diagnostically challenging uterine smooth muscle tumors. IHC results were individually interpreted by 3 pathologists blinded to NGS data. Overall, 94% of LMS showed ≥1 genomic alteration involving TP53, RB1, ATRX, PTEN, CDKN2A, or MDM2, with 80% showing alterations in ≥2 of these genes. In the test cohort, an initial panel of p53, Rb, PTEN, and ATRX was applied, followed by a panel of DAXX, MTAP, and MDM2 in cases without abnormalities. Abnormal p53, Rb, PTEN, and ATRX IHC expression was seen in 75%, 88%, 44%, and 38% of LMS, respectively, in the test cohort. Two or more abnormal IHC results among these markers were seen in 81% of LMS. STUMPs demonstrated only 1 IHC abnormality involving these markers. No IHC abnormalities were seen in leiomyomas. In the validation cohort, abnormal p53, Rb, and PTEN IHC results were seen in LMS, whereas rare STUMP or leiomyomas with bizarre nuclei showed IHC abnormalities involving only 1 of the markers. Abnormalities in ≥2 markers were present in both diagnostically challenging smooth muscle tumors, confirming LMS. Concordance was excellent among pathologists in the interpretation of IHC (κ = 0.97) and between IHC and NGS results (κ = 0.941). Uterine LMS exhibit genomic landmark alterations for which IHC surrogates exist, and a diagnostic algorithm involving molecular-based IHC may aid in the evaluation of unusual uterine smooth muscle tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Momeni-Boroujeni
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Elham Yousefi
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Ridin Balakrishnan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Stephanie Riviere
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Elizabeth Kertowidjojo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Martee L Hensley
- Department of Medicine, Gynecologic Medical Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Marc Ladanyi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Lora H Ellenson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Sarah Chiang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
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Aryal SC, Husain S, Zhang Z, Yuan L. Gastric glomus tumor on EUS-FNA-based cytology: clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical features of 4 cases, including 1 case with associated MIR143HG-NOTCH2 fusion gene. J Am Soc Cytopathol 2023:S2213-2945(23)00019-4. [PMID: 37072283 DOI: 10.1016/j.jasc.2023.03.004] [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: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gastric glomus tumor (GT) is a rare submucosal tumor for which the preoperative diagnosis can be challenging. We report the cytomorphologic and immunohistochemical features of 4 gastric GTs diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) cytology. MATERIALS AND METHODS Files were searched to identify gastric GTs diagnosed by EUS-FNA between 2018 and 2021. A total of 4 cases of gastric GTs (3 men and 1 women; mean age, 60 years) were included. RESULTS Three GTs were located in the gastric antrum and one in the gastric body. Their size ranged from 2 to 2.5 cm. Three patients presented with epigastric discomfort and one with chest wall discomfort. Rapid on-site evaluation was performed for 3 cases; the findings for all 3 were indeterminate. The smears were moderate to highly cellular and showed loose clusters of evenly distributed small- to medium-size bland tumor cells. The tumor cells had centrally located round to oval nuclei with inconspicuous nucleoli and scant to moderate amount of eosinophilic to clear cytoplasm. Examination of the cell blocks revealed branching small vessels surrounded by small- to medium-size cells. The neoplastic cells were positive for smooth muscle actin and synaptophysin and negative for AE1/AE3 and S-100. C-KIT and CD34 were variably positive. Ki-67 was <2% positive. In 1 case, the fusion panel-solid tumor (50 genes) revealed the MIR143HG-NOTCH2 fusion gene. CONCLUSIONS Smears and cell block preparation revealed angiocentric sheets of uniform, small round to oval tumor cells with pale to eosinophilic cytoplasm, intermingled with endothelial cells. The differential diagnosis of gastric GTs on rapid on-site evaluation includes neuroendocrine tumors and epithelioid or spindled cell neoplasms. Immunohistochemical and molecular studies can be helpful in the preoperative diagnosis of gastric GT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Chhetri Aryal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Sanam Husain
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Ziying Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Lisi Yuan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan.
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15
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A View on Uterine Leiomyoma Genesis through the Prism of Genetic, Epigenetic and Cellular Heterogeneity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065752. [PMID: 36982825 PMCID: PMC10056617 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (ULs), frequent benign tumours of the female reproductive tract, are associated with a range of symptoms and significant morbidity. Despite extensive research, there is no consensus on essential points of UL initiation and development. The main reason for this is a pronounced inter- and intratumoral heterogeneity resulting from diverse and complicated mechanisms underlying UL pathobiology. In this review, we comprehensively analyse risk and protective factors for UL development, UL cellular composition, hormonal and paracrine signalling, epigenetic regulation and genetic abnormalities. We conclude the need to carefully update the concept of UL genesis in light of the current data. Staying within the framework of the existing hypotheses, we introduce a possible timeline for UL development and the associated key events—from potential prerequisites to the beginning of UL formation and the onset of driver and passenger changes.
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16
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Chapel DB, Sharma A, Maccio L, Bragantini E, Zannoni GF, Yuan L, Quade BJ, Parra-Herran C, Nucci MR. Fumarate Hydratase and S-(2-Succinyl)-Cysteine Immunohistochemistry Shows Evidence of Fumarate Hydratase Deficiency in 2% of Uterine Leiomyosarcomas: A Cohort Study of 348 Tumors. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2023; 42:120-135. [PMID: 36729957 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000000918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 1% to 1.5% of uterine leiomyomas are fumarate hydratase (FH)-deficient (FHd). A subset of these are associated with germline FH mutations. However, the prevalence and clinicopathologic characteristics of FHd uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS) remain unknown. Clinicopathologic data were collected for 348 uLMS. Morphologic features associated with FH deficiency (staghorn-type vessels, alveolar-pattern edema, macronucleoli with perinucleolar clearing, eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusions, and chain-like nuclear arrangement) were documented. All 348 tumors were studied by FH immunohistochemistry. Eighty-nine were also studied by S-(2-succinyl)-cysteine (2SC) immunohistochemistry. Seven (2%) FHd uLMS were identified. Five showed uniformly negative FH and diffusely positive 2SC immunostaining; 1 showed variably negative to weak to strong FH and diffusely positive 2SC immunostaining; and 1 showed retained FH staining alongside positive 2SC confined to a morphologically distinct subclone. Three of 7 patients had extrauterine disease at presentation, and 3 of 6 had persistent disease or died from disease. Macronucleoli with perinucleolar clearing were significantly more common in FHd uLMS (7/7) than in uLMS with retained FH (182/341; P =0.017). Disease-specific survival, disease-free survival, and other morphologic features of FH deficiency did not differ significantly between FHd and FH-retained tumors. Our data emphasize that immunohistochemical FH deficiency does not preclude malignancy in uterine smooth muscle tumors. However, the biological significance and molecular basis of FH deficiency in uLMS, including any relationship to germline FH mutation, remain unknown, and a larger multi-institutional effort is necessary to gather sufficient FHd uLMS for more robustly powered clinicopathologic and for molecular characterization.
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17
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Pivotal Role of Ubiquitin Carboxyl-Terminal Hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) in Uterine Leiomyoma. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020193. [PMID: 36830563 PMCID: PMC9953523 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are smooth-muscle tumors originating in the myometrium and are the most common pelvic tumors in women of reproductive age. Symptomatic tumors may result in abnormal uterine bleeding, bladder dysfunction, pelvic discomfort, and reproductive issues, such as infertility and miscarriage. There are currently few non-invasive treatments for leiomyoma, but there are no practical early intervention or preventive methods. In this study, human uterine leiomyoma and myometrial tissues were used to detect the protein and mRNA expression levels of UCHL1. To explore the effects of UCHL1 knockdown and inhibition in leiomyoma and myometrial cells, we determined the mRNA expressions of COL1A1 and COL3A1. Collagen gel contraction and wound-healing assays were performed on myometrial and leiomyoma cells. We found that UCHL1 expression was considerably higher in uterine leiomyomas than in the myometrium. COL1A1 and COL3A1 expression levels were downregulated after inhibition of UCHL1 in human leiomyoma cells. Furthermore, the elimination of UCHL1 significantly decreased the migration and contractility of leiomyoma cells. In conclusion, these results indicate that UCHL1 is involved in the growth of leiomyoma in humans. For the treatment of uterine leiomyoma, targeting UCHL1 activity may be a unique and possible therapeutic strategy.
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Jokinen V, Mehine M, Reinikka S, Khamaiseh S, Ahvenainen T, Äyräväinen A, Härkki P, Bützow R, Pasanen A, Vahteristo P. 3'RNA and whole-genome sequencing of archival uterine leiomyomas reveal a tumor subtype with chromosomal rearrangements affecting either HMGA2, HMGA1, or PLAG1. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2023; 62:27-38. [PMID: 35822448 PMCID: PMC9804854 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.23088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas, or fibroids, are very common smooth muscle tumors that arise from the myometrium. They can be divided into distinct molecular subtypes. We have previously shown that 3'RNA-sequencing is highly effective in classifying archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) leiomyomas according to the underlying mutation. In this study, we performed 3'RNA-sequencing with 111 FFPE leiomyomas previously classified as negative for driver alterations in mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12), high mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2), and fumarate hydratase (FH) by Sanger sequencing and immunohistochemistry. This revealed 43 tumors that displayed expression features typically seen in HMGA2-positive tumors, including overexpression of PLAG1. We explored 12 such leiomyomas by whole-genome sequencing to identify their underlying genomic drivers and to evaluate the feasibility of detecting chromosomal driver alterations from FFPE material. Four tumors with significant HMGA2 overexpression at the protein-level served as controls. We identified chromosomal rearrangements targeting either HMGA2, HMGA1, or PLAG1 in all 16 tumors, demonstrating that it is possible to detect chromosomal driver alterations in archival leiomyoma specimens as old as 18 years. Furthermore, two tumors displayed biallelic loss of DEPDC5 and one tumor harbored a COL4A5-COL4A6 deletion. These observations suggest that instead of only HMGA2-positive leiomyomas, a distinct leiomyoma subtype is characterized by rearrangements targeting either HMGA2, HMGA1, or PLAG1. The results indicate that the frequency of HMGA2-positive leiomyomas may be higher than estimated in previous studies where immunohistochemistry has been used. This study also demonstrates the feasibility of detecting chromosomal driver alterations from archival FFPE material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vilja Jokinen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Medical and Clinical GeneticsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Miika Mehine
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Medical and Clinical GeneticsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Siiri Reinikka
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Medical and Clinical GeneticsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Sara Khamaiseh
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Medical and Clinical GeneticsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine FlagshipHelsinkiFinland
| | - Terhi Ahvenainen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Medical and Clinical GeneticsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine FlagshipHelsinkiFinland
| | - Anna Äyräväinen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Medical and Clinical GeneticsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Helsinki and Helsinki University HospitalHelsinkiFinland
| | - Päivi Härkki
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Helsinki and Helsinki University HospitalHelsinkiFinland
| | - Ralf Bützow
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of PathologyUniversity of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University HospitalHelsinkiFinland
| | - Annukka Pasanen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of PathologyUniversity of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University HospitalHelsinkiFinland
| | - Pia Vahteristo
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Medical and Clinical GeneticsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine FlagshipHelsinkiFinland
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19
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Vadasz B, Felicelli C, Feng Y, Yin P, Zhang Q, Bulun S, Wei JJ. Loss of dystrophin is common in uterine leiomyosarcoma: a potential biomarker for clinical application. Hum Pathol 2022; 134:85-91. [PMID: 36549601 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a deadly disease with high rates of recurrence and a poor prognosis. Its tumorigenesis remains largely unknown, and no specific biomarkers can be used for the differential diagnosis of LMS from other mimics. Recent whole-genome studies revealed a loss of dystrophin is common in LMS, especially in uterine LMS. To investigate the expression pattern of dystrophin expression across different types of uterine smooth muscle tumors, immunohistochemistry was performed, including usual-type leiomyoma, fumarate hydratase-deficient leiomyoma, leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei, conventional LMS, and normal myometrium for this study. To further evaluate the genomic change in dystrophin gene region, whole-genome sequencing in 10 LMS cases were analyzed. Dystrophin expression was detected in 94% (45/48) of myometrium, 97% (34/35) of usual-type leiomyoma, 84% (26/31) of fumarate hydratase-deficient leiomyoma, 60% (12/20) of leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei, and 18% (6/34) of LMS. Loss of dystrophin expression was significantly different between benign and malignant tumors (LMS cases counted as malignant only) (p < 0.01). Of note, copy number loss in the dystrophin genomic region was found in all 10 cases of LMS. Additionally, patients with dystrophin-positive LMS tend to have a better overall survival than patients with dystrophin-negative LMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Vadasz
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Christopher Felicelli
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Yue Feng
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ping Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 250012, China
| | - Serdar Bulun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jian-Jun Wei
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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20
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Guo E, Li C, Hu Y, Zhao K, Zheng Q, Wang L. Leiomyoma with Bizarre Nuclei: A Current Update. Int J Womens Health 2022; 14:1641-1656. [PMID: 36457718 PMCID: PMC9707388 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s388278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei (LBN), also known as symplastic leiomyoma, is a histological subtype of benign leiomyoma with bizarre cells and nuclear atypia. Differentiating LBN from other benign leiomyoma subtypes, uterine smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP), or leiomyosarcoma (LMS) can be diagnostically challenging owing to overlapping features in clinical presentation and pathologic morphological analysis. The difficulty of distinguishing LBN from other lesions, especially from LMS, and the potential of LBN for subsequent malignant transformation make LBN an important topic of research. Herein, we review the definition, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of LBN. Histopathological examination is essential for distinguishing LBN from other diseases. Pathology sampling and morphological examination remain the key to diagnosis. The newly established ancillary immunohistochemical (IHC) and molecular genetic analysis can be useful tools for differential diagnosis. Furthermore, serum biomarkers and imaging examination may also be useful diagnostic tools. Attention should be paid to the differentiation between LBN and LMS because morphological diagnosis may still be challenging in some cases. Some IHC markers of LBN have been identified, which may be helpful for differential diagnosis. Furthermore, the use of IHC panels as diagnostic markers may be advocated. Molecular genetic studies suggest that some genes can aid with the differential diagnosis between LBN and LMS. However, increasing evidence support the idea that LBN and LMS are molecularly related, indicating that LBN may represent a potentially malignant stage of precancerous progression. At present, conservative treatment is recommended for primary LBN, especially for patients desiring to retain fertility, but close follow-up with imaging examinations is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enhui Guo
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
- Qingdao Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chengqian Li
- Qingdao Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanjiao Hu
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kongyuan Zhao
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
- Qingdao Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingmei Zheng
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liming Wang
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China
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21
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Bosoteanu M, Deacu M, Voda RI, Orasanu CI, Aschie M, Vlad SE, Penciu RC, Chirila SI. Five-Year Retrospective Study of Uterine STUMP and Leiomyosarcoma. Clin Pract 2022; 12:897-907. [PMID: 36412673 PMCID: PMC9680293 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract12060094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Taking into account the unpredictable evolution of uterine STUMP and leiomyosarcomas, there are no clearly established therapeutic protocols to date, the only certified treatment being total hysterectomy. We performed a 5-year retrospective study including cases of malignant tumors and those with uncertain malignant potential originating in the smooth muscle tissue of the uterine body. The clinical data, pathological aspects, and the immunohistochemical results were statistically analyzed using SPSS Statistics Version 26. The main associations of the p53 gene were identified with age, atypia, and the occurrence of metastases. The average number of CD8+ T cells correlated with the hormonal status of the patients, the presence of diabetes, and alteration of thyroid function, but also with the severity of the atypia. The therapeutic method was represented by total hysterectomy, and 30% of the patients with leiomyosarcoma also benefited from adjuvant chemotherapy. The average period until death was 25.66 months. The present study showed that the mutant expression of p53 could have a role in assessing the clinical evolution of patients, given the association with exitus and metastasis. In addition, the average number of CD8+ T cells corresponded to severe atypia, indicating the possibility of applying targeted immunotherapies in these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madalina Bosoteanu
- Clinical Service of Pathology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, “Ovidius” University of Constanta, 900527 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mariana Deacu
- Clinical Service of Pathology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, “Ovidius” University of Constanta, 900527 Constanta, Romania
| | - Raluca Ioana Voda
- Clinical Service of Pathology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology-CEDMOG, “Ovidius” University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Cristian Ionut Orasanu
- Clinical Service of Pathology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology-CEDMOG, “Ovidius” University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mariana Aschie
- Clinical Service of Pathology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, “Ovidius” University of Constanta, 900527 Constanta, Romania
- Academy of Medical Sciences of Romania, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sabina Elena Vlad
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology-CEDMOG, “Ovidius” University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Roxana Cleopatra Penciu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, “Ovidius” University of Constanta, 900527 Constanta, Romania
| | - Sergiu Ioachim Chirila
- Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Ovidius University, 900527 Constanta, Romania
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22
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Uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential: A review of current knowledge. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 61:935-940. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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23
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Mehine M, Ahvenainen T, Khamaiseh S, Härkönen J, Reinikka S, Heikkinen T, Äyräväinen A, Pakarinen P, Härkki P, Pasanen A, Levonen AL, Bützow R, Vahteristo P. A novel uterine leiomyoma subtype exhibits NRF2 activation and mutations in genes associated with neddylation of the Cullin 3-RING E3 ligase. Oncogenesis 2022; 11:52. [PMID: 36068196 PMCID: PMC9448808 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-022-00425-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas, or fibroids, are the most common tumors in women of reproductive age. Uterine leiomyomas can be classified into at least three main molecular subtypes according to mutations affecting MED12, HMGA2, or FH. FH-deficient leiomyomas are characterized by activation of the NRF2 pathway, including upregulation of the NRF2 target gene AKR1B10. Here, we have identified a novel leiomyoma subtype showing AKR1B10 expression but no alterations in FH or other known driver genes. Whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing revealed biallelic mutations in key genes involved in neddylation of the Cullin 3-RING E3 ligase, including UBE2M, NEDD8, CUL3, and NAE1. 3′RNA sequencing confirmed a distinct molecular subtype with activation of the NRF2 pathway. Most tumors displayed cellular histopathology, perivascular hypercellularity, and characteristics typically seen in FH-deficient leiomyomas. These results suggest a novel leiomyoma subtype that is characterized by distinct morphological features, genetic alterations disrupting neddylation of the Cullin 3-RING E3 ligase, and oncogenic NRF2 activation. They also present defective neddylation as a novel mechanism leading to aberrant NRF2 signaling. Molecular characterization of uterine leiomyomas provides novel opportunities for targeted treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miika Mehine
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Terhi Ahvenainen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sara Khamaiseh
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jouni Härkönen
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Siiri Reinikka
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuomas Heikkinen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna Äyräväinen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Päivi Pakarinen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Päivi Härkki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Annukka Pasanen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna-Liisa Levonen
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ralf Bützow
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pia Vahteristo
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, Helsinki, Finland.
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24
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Immunohistochemical Expression of Vitamin D Receptor in Uterine Fibroids. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14163371. [PMID: 36014877 PMCID: PMC9415784 DOI: 10.3390/nu14163371] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the many factors involved in the development of uterine fibroids is vitamin D deficiency. One aspect of this deficiency is decreased serum concentration of calcidiol-25(OH)D, a metabolite of D3 vitamin. The active form of vitamin D3, which arises after numerous enzymatic reactions, is calcitriol-1,25(OH)2D3; this compound is transported to various body tissues. Vitamin D possesses extra-genomic effects due to its influence on various signaling pathways, i.e., through activating tyrosine kinases and by genomic effects via binding to a specific nuclear receptor, vitamin D receptor (VDR). The vitamin D/VDR complex regulates the expression of genes and is involved in the pathogenesis of fibroids. Numerous studies have shown that vitamin D supplementation reduces fibroid size. It has also been shown that the expression of VDR in myoma tissue is significantly lower than in the uterine muscle tissue at the tumor periphery. However, the expression of VDR in non-myoma uterine muscle has not previously been investigated. Our VDR expression studies were performed immunohistochemically with tissue microarrays (TMA) in three tissue groups: 98 uterine myoma tissues, 98 uterine tissues (tumor margin), and 12 tissues of normal uterine muscle (i.e., without fibroids). A statistical analysis showed significantly lower VDR expression in uterine muscle at the periphery of the fibroid than in healthy uterine muscle. Lower expression of VDR at the periphery of the myoma compared to that in normal uterine muscle may indicate potential for new myomas. This observation and the described reduction in the size of fibroids after vitamin D supplementation supports the hypothesis of causal development of uterine fibroids and may be useful for the prevention of re-development in the event of their excision from the uterus.
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25
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Griffin BB, Feng Y, Saini P, Lu X, Bulun S, Chakravarti D, Wei J. Histologic and Molecular Analysis of Cellular Leiomyoma with Sclerosis: Linked to HMGA2 Overexpression. Histopathology 2022; 81:587-599. [DOI: 10.1111/his.14732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brannan B. Griffin
- Department of Pathology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology Vanderbilt University Medical Center Nashville TN USA
| | - Yue Feng
- Department of Pathology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
| | - Priyanka Saini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
| | - Xinyan Lu
- Department of Pathology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
| | - Serdar Bulun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
| | - Debabrata Chakravarti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
| | - Jian‐Jun Wei
- Department of Pathology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
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26
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Xu X, Shen HR, Zhang JR, Li XL. The role of insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding proteins in female reproductive pathophysiology. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:89. [PMID: 35706003 PMCID: PMC9199150 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00960-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) mRNA binding proteins (IMPs) family belongs to a highly conserved family of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and is responsible for regulating RNA processing including localization, translation and stability. Mammalian IMPs (IMP1-3) take part in development, metabolism and tumorigenesis, where they are believed to play a major role in cell growth, metabolism, migration and invasion. IMPs have been identified that are expressed in ovary, placenta and embryo. The up-to-date evidence suggest that IMPs are involved in folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, embryogenesis, implantation, and placentation. The dysregulation of IMPs not only contributes to carcinogenesis but also disturbs the female reproduction, and may participate in the pathogenesis of reproductive diseases and obstetric syndromes, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), pre-eclampsia (PE), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and gynecological tumors. In this review, we summarize the role of IMPs in female reproductive pathophysiology, and hope to provide new insights into the identification of potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao-Ran Shen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Rong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xue-Lian Li
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
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27
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Dall GV, Hamilton A, Ratnayake G, Scott C, Barker H. Interrogating the Genomic Landscape of Uterine Leiomyosarcoma: A Potential for Patient Benefit. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061561. [PMID: 35326717 PMCID: PMC8946513 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS) is a rare and aggressive gynaecological malignancy. Surgical removal and chemotherapy are commonly used to treat uLMS, but recurrence rates are high. Over the last few decades, clarification of the genomic landscape of uLMS has revealed a number of recurring mutations, including TP53, RB1, ATRX, PTEN, and MED12. Such genomic aberrations are difficult to target therapeutically or are actively targeted in other malignancies, and their potential as targets for the treatment of uLMS remains largely unexplored. Recent identification of deficiencies in homologous recombination in a minority of these tumours, however, has provided a rationale for investigation of PARP inhibitors in this sub-set. Here, we review these mutations and the evidence for therapeutic avenues that may be applied in uLMS. We also provide a comprehensive background on diagnosis and current therapeutic strategies as well as reviewing preclinical models of uLMS, which may be employed not only in testing emerging therapies but also in understanding this challenging and deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve V. Dall
- Walter and Eliza Hall, Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (C.S.); (H.B.)
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Anne Hamilton
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
| | | | - Clare Scott
- Walter and Eliza Hall, Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (C.S.); (H.B.)
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
| | - Holly Barker
- Walter and Eliza Hall, Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (C.S.); (H.B.)
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
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28
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Lung metastases and subsequent malignant transformation of a fumarate hydratase -deficient uterine leiomyoma. Exp Mol Pathol 2022; 126:104760. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2022.104760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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29
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Włodarczyk M, Nowicka G, Ciebiera M, Ali M, Yang Q, Al-Hendy A. Epigenetic Regulation in Uterine Fibroids-The Role of Ten-Eleven Translocation Enzymes and Their Potential Therapeutic Application. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2720. [PMID: 35269864 PMCID: PMC8910916 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052720] [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: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are monoclonal, benign tumors that contain abnormal smooth muscle cells and the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Although benign, UFs are a major source of gynecologic and reproductive dysfunction, ranging from menorrhagia and pelvic pain to infertility, recurrent miscarriage, and preterm labor. Many risk factors are involved in the pathogenesis of UFs via genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. The latter involving DNA methylation and demethylation reactions provide specific DNA methylation patterns that regulate gene expression. Active DNA demethylation reactions mediated by ten-eleven translocation proteins (TETs) and elevated levels of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine have been suggested to be involved in UF formation. This review paper summarizes the main findings regarding the function of TET enzymes and their activity dysregulation that may trigger the development of UFs. Understanding the role that epigenetics plays in the pathogenesis of UFs may possibly lead to a new type of pharmacological fertility-sparing treatment method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Włodarczyk
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grażyna Nowicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Ciebiera
- The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (Q.Y.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (Q.Y.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (Q.Y.); (A.A.-H.)
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30
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Machado-Lopez A, Alonso R, Lago V, Jimenez-Almazan J, Garcia M, Monleon J, Lopez S, Barcelo F, Torroba A, Ortiz S, Domingo S, Simon C, Mas A. Integrative Genomic and Transcriptomic Profiling Reveals a Differential Molecular Signature in Uterine Leiomyoma versus Leiomyosarcoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042190. [PMID: 35216305 PMCID: PMC8877247 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The absence of standardized molecular profiling to differentiate uterine leiomyosarcomas versus leiomyomas represents a current diagnostic challenge. In this study, we aimed to search for a differential molecular signature for these myometrial tumors based on artificial intelligence. For this purpose, differential exome and transcriptome-wide research was performed on histologically confirmed leiomyomas (n = 52) and leiomyosarcomas (n = 44) to elucidate differences between and within these two entities. We identified a significantly higher tumor mutation burden in leiomyosarcomas vs. leiomyomas in terms of somatic single-nucleotide variants (171,863 vs. 81,152), indels (9491 vs. 4098), and copy number variants (8390 vs. 5376). Further, we discovered alterations in specific copy number variant regions that affect the expression of some tumor suppressor genes. A transcriptomic analysis revealed 489 differentially expressed genes between these two conditions, as well as structural rearrangements targeting ATRX and RAD51B. These results allowed us to develop a machine learning approach based on 19 differentially expressed genes that differentiate both tumor types with high sensitivity and specificity. Our findings provide a novel molecular signature for the diagnosis of leiomyoma and leiomyosarcoma, which could be helpful to complement the current morphological and immunohistochemical diagnosis and may lay the foundation for the future evaluation of malignancy risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Machado-Lopez
- Igenomix Foundation, INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46980 Valencia, Spain; (A.M.-L.); (R.A.)
| | - Roberto Alonso
- Igenomix Foundation, INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46980 Valencia, Spain; (A.M.-L.); (R.A.)
- Research and Development Department, Igenomix SL, 46980 Paterna, Spain; (J.J.-A.); (M.G.)
| | - Victor Lago
- Gynecologic Oncology Department, University Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (V.L.); (S.D.)
| | - Jorge Jimenez-Almazan
- Research and Development Department, Igenomix SL, 46980 Paterna, Spain; (J.J.-A.); (M.G.)
| | - Marta Garcia
- Research and Development Department, Igenomix SL, 46980 Paterna, Spain; (J.J.-A.); (M.G.)
| | - Javier Monleon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Universitario La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Susana Lopez
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Francisco Barcelo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Gynecology Oncology Unit, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, 30120 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Amparo Torroba
- Pathology Service, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, 30120 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Sebastian Ortiz
- Department of Pathology, Complejo Hospitalario de Cartagena, 30202 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Santiago Domingo
- Gynecologic Oncology Department, University Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (V.L.); (S.D.)
| | - Carlos Simon
- Igenomix Foundation, INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46980 Valencia, Spain; (A.M.-L.); (R.A.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, BIDMC, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Correspondence: (C.S.); (A.M.); Tel.: +34-963-90-53-10 (C.S. and A.M.)
| | - Aymara Mas
- Igenomix Foundation, INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46980 Valencia, Spain; (A.M.-L.); (R.A.)
- Correspondence: (C.S.); (A.M.); Tel.: +34-963-90-53-10 (C.S. and A.M.)
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31
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Wei JJ. Leiomyoma with nuclear atypia: Rare diseases that present a common diagnostic problem. Semin Diagn Pathol 2022; 39:187-200. [PMID: 35144823 PMCID: PMC9035108 DOI: 10.1053/j.semdp.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Leiomyoma with nuclear atypia describes a group of uterine smooth muscle tumors with a wide range of histologic and clinical presentations and remarkable nuclear atypia. These include fumarate hydratase-deficient leiomyoma (FH-LM), intravenous leiomyomatosis (IV-LM), and leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei (LM-BN). Other uterine mesenchymal tumors, such as perivascular epithelioid tumor (PEComa) and inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMFT) are the mimickers of leiomyoma with nuclear atypia. LM-BN is the primary tumor model with a long history in gynecologic pathology, but the histogenesis of LM-BN remains largely unknown. Differentiating LM-BN from other benign variants, tumors with uncertain malignant potential (STUMP), or fully malignant leiomyosarcoma (LMS) can be diagnostically challenging. Recent progress has improved the diagnosis of many types of leiomyoma with nuclear atypia based on their specific histology and molecular alterations. LM-BN is now a diagnosis of exclusion. In this article, I review the history of leiomyoma with nuclear atypia and compare the clinical, histologic, and molecular features of LM-BN with those of its mimics. In particular, I highlight the current progress made in molecular genetics and pitfalls in the diagnosis of different myogenic tumors with nuclear atypia.
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32
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Cytogenomic Profile of Uterine Leiomyoma: In Vivo vs. In Vitro Comparison. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121777. [PMID: 34944592 PMCID: PMC8698342 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121777] [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: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We performed a comparative cytogenomic analysis of cultured and uncultured uterine leiomyoma (UL) samples. The experimental approach included karyotyping, aCGH, verification of the detected chromosomal abnormalities by metaphase and interphase FISH, MED12 mutation analysis and telomere measurement by Q-FISH. An abnormal karyotype was detected in 12 out of 32 cultured UL samples. In five karyotypically abnormal ULs, MED12 mutations were found. The chromosomal abnormalities in ULs were present mostly by complex rearrangements, including chromothripsis. In both karyotypically normal and abnormal ULs, telomeres were ~40% shorter than in the corresponding myometrium, being possibly prerequisite to chromosomal rearrangements. The uncultured samples of six karyotypically abnormal ULs were checked for the detected chromosomal abnormalities through interphase FISH with individually designed DNA probe sets. All chromosomal abnormalities detected in cultured ULs were found in corresponding uncultured samples. In all tumors, clonal spectra were present by the karyotypically abnormal cell clone/clones which coexisted with karyotypically normal ones, suggesting that chromosomal abnormalities acted as drivers, rather than triggers, of the neoplastic process. In vitro propagation did not cause any changes in the spectrum of the cell clones, but altered their ratio compared to uncultured sample. The alterations were unique for every UL. Compared to its uncultured counterpart, the frequency of chromosomally abnormal cells in the cultured sample was higher in some ULs and lower in others. To summarize, ULs are characterized by both inter- and intratumor genetic heterogeneity. Regardless of its MED12 status, a tumor may be comprised of clones with and without chromosomal abnormalities. In contrast to the clonal spectrum, which is unique and constant for each UL, the clonal frequency demonstrates up or down shifts under in vitro conditions, most probably determined by the unequal ability of cells with different genetic aberrations to exist outside the body.
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Dundr P, Gregová M, Hojný J, Krkavcová E, Michálková R, Němejcová K, Bártů M, Hájková N, Laco J, Mára M, Richtárová A, Zima T, Stružinská I. Uterine cellular leiomyomas are characterized by common HMGA2 aberrations, followed by chromosome 1p deletion and MED12 mutation: morphological, molecular, and immunohistochemical study of 52 cases. Virchows Arch 2021; 480:281-291. [PMID: 34626221 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-021-03217-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cellular leiomyoma (CL) represents an uncommon variant of uterine leiomyoma with limited data concerning its immunohistochemical and molecular profile. We performed a comprehensive analysis of 52 CL cases all of which were analyzed immunohistochemically. Molecular analysis was possible in 32 cases with sufficient DNA, and 38 cases with sufficient RNA. The immunohistochemical results showed a high expression of smooth muscle markers (calponin (100%), desmin (100%), smooth muscle actin (98.1%), caldesmon (96.1%), transgelin (96.1%), smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (86.5%), and smoothelin (61.5%)). Concerning markers of endometrial stromal differentiation, the expression of CD10 was observed in 65.4% cases (42.2% with H-score > 50), and IFITM1 in 36.5% cases (1.9% with H-score > 50). 36.5% showed HMGA2 overexpression at the IHC level, associated with increased mRNA expression in 14/14 cases. The rearrangement of the HMGA2 gene was detected in 13.2%. Chromosome 1p deletion was found in 19.3%, while 9.4% of tumors showed a pathogenic mutation in the MED12 gene. In conclusion, CL is immunohistochemically characterized by a high expression of "smooth muscle" markers commonly associated with a co-expression of "endometrial stromal" markers, where IFITM1 shows superior performance compared to CD10 regarding its specificity for differentiation from endometrial stromal tumors. The sensitivity of smoothelin in CL seems rather low, but no data is available to assess its specificity. On a molecular level, the most common mutually exclusive aberration in CL affects HMGA2, followed by chromosome 1p deletions and MED12 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Dundr
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 12800, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Mária Gregová
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 12800, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Hojný
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 12800, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Krkavcová
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 12800, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Romana Michálková
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 12800, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Němejcová
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 12800, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Bártů
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 12800, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Nikola Hájková
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 12800, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Laco
- The Fingerland Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, University Hospital in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Mára
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adéla Richtárová
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Zima
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ivana Stružinská
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2, 12800, Prague 2, Czech Republic
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Ciarmela P, Delli Carpini G, Greco S, Zannotti A, Montik N, Giannella L, Giuliani L, Grelloni C, Panfoli F, Paolucci M, Pierucci G, Ragno F, Pellegrino P, Petraglia F, Ciavattini A. Uterine fibroid vascularization: from morphological evidence to clinical implications. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:281-294. [PMID: 34848152 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most common cause of solid pelvic tumours, occurring in 20-30% of fertile women and presenting clinical complications that seriously affect women's health. They commonly cause severe symptoms, such as heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding and anaemia. The study of microscopic and macroscopic vascular aspects of uterine fibroids is important for understanding the clinical manifestations of uterine fibroids, for predicting the effectiveness of alternative treatments to surgery, i.e. uterine artery embolization, for improving surgery outcomes and for carrying out a differential diagnosis with other benign conditions, e.g. adenomyosis, or malignancy, e.g. leiomyosarcoma, and to develop new therapeutic approaches. In this review, current knowledge of how the vascular network and angiogenesis are implied in the formation of uterine fibroids and in the pathogenesis of related symptoms is explored, and evidence on the role of ultrasound in evaluating fibroid vascularization is summarized. This review combines anatomical, morphological and biomolecular information related to angiogenic mechanisms with diagnostic and clinical information, highlighting the various interconnections. Uterine and fibroid vascularization need further investigation to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenetic elements that lead to the formation of uterine fibroids and their clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Delli Carpini
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Stefania Greco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zannotti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy; Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Nina Montik
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Luca Giannella
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Lucia Giuliani
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Camilla Grelloni
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Francesca Panfoli
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Michela Paolucci
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Gloria Pierucci
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Federica Ragno
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Pamela Pellegrino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Ciavattini
- Gynecologic Section, Department od Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona 60126, Italy
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Shtykalova SV, Egorova AA, Maretina MA, Freund SA, Baranov VS, Kiselev AV. Molecular Genetic Basis and Prospects of Gene Therapy of Uterine Leiomyoma. RUSS J GENET+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795421090118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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36
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Molecular and Cellular Insights into the Development of Uterine Fibroids. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168483. [PMID: 34445194 PMCID: PMC8395213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas represent the most common benign gynecologic tumor. These hormone-dependent smooth-muscle formations occur with an estimated prevalence of ~70% among women of reproductive age and cause symptoms including pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, and recurrent abortion. Despite the prevalence and public health impact of uterine leiomyomas, available treatments remain limited. Among the potential causes of leiomyomas, early hormonal exposure during periods of development may result in developmental reprogramming via epigenetic changes that persist in adulthood, leading to disease onset or progression. Recent developments in unbiased high-throughput sequencing technology enable powerful approaches to detect driver mutations, yielding new insights into the genomic instability of leiomyomas. Current data also suggest that each leiomyoma originates from the clonal expansion of a single transformed somatic stem cell of the myometrium. In this review, we propose an integrated cellular and molecular view of the origins of leiomyomas, as well as paradigm-shifting studies that will lead to better understanding and the future development of non-surgical treatments for these highly frequent tumors.
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Deficient H2A.Z deposition is associated with genesis of uterine leiomyoma. Nature 2021; 596:398-403. [PMID: 34349258 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03747-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
One in four women suffers from uterine leiomyomas (ULs)-benign tumours of the uterine wall, also known as uterine fibroids-at some point in premenopausal life. ULs can cause excessive bleeding, pain and infertility1, and are a common cause of hysterectomy2. They emerge through at least three distinct genetic drivers: mutations in MED12 or FH, or genomic rearrangement of HMGA23. Here we created genome-wide datasets, using DNA, RNA, assay for transposase-accessible chromatin (ATAC), chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and HiC chromatin immunoprecipitation (HiChIP) sequencing of primary tissues to profoundly understand the genesis of UL. We identified somatic mutations in genes encoding six members of the SRCAP histone-loading complex4, and found that germline mutations in the SRCAP members YEATS4 and ZNHIT1 predispose women to UL. Tumours bearing these mutations showed defective deposition of the histone variant H2A.Z. In ULs, H2A.Z occupancy correlated positively with chromatin accessibility and gene expression, and negatively with DNA methylation, but these correlations were weak in tumours bearing SRCAP complex mutations. In these tumours, open chromatin emerged at transcription start sites where H2A.Z was lost, which was associated with upregulation of genes. Furthermore, YEATS4 defects were associated with abnormal upregulation of bivalent embryonic stem cell genes, as previously shown in mice5. Our work describes a potential mechanism of tumorigenesis-epigenetic instability caused by deficient H2A.Z deposition-and suggests that ULs arise through an aberrant differentiation program driven by deranged chromatin, emanating from a small number of mutually exclusive driver mutations.
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Äyräväinen A, Pasanen A, Ahvenainen T, Heikkinen T, Pakarinen P, Härkki P, Vahteristo P. Systematic molecular and clinical analysis of uterine leiomyomas from fertile-aged women undergoing myomectomy. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:2237-2244. [PMID: 32829387 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the distributions and associated clinical characteristics of mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12), high mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2) and fumarate hydratase (FH) aberrations in uterine leiomyomas from fertile-aged myomectomy patients? SUMMARY ANSWER These driver mutations account for the majority (83%) of tumours in fertile-aged patients. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Alterations affecting MED12, HMGA2 and FH account for 80-90% of uterine leiomyomas from middle-aged hysterectomy patients, while the molecular background of tumours from young myomectomy patients has not been systematically studied. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A retrospective series of 361 archival uterine leiomyoma samples from 234 women aged ≤45 years undergoing myomectomy in 2009-2014 was examined. Associations between the molecular data and detailed clinical information of the patients and tumours were analysed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS DNA was extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples and MED12 exons 1 and 2 were sequenced to identify mutations. Level of HMGA2 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Biallelic FH inactivation was analysed with 2-succinylcysteine staining, which is an indirect method of assessing FH deficiency. All patients' medical histories were reviewed, and clinical information of patients and tumours was combined with molecular data. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The median age at operation was 34 years. The majority (58%) of patients were operated on for a single leiomyoma. Known driver mutations were identified in 83% of tumours (71% MED12; 9% HMGA2; 3% FH). In solitary leiomyomas, the MED12 mutation frequency was only 43%, and 29% were wild-type for all driver alterations. MED12 mutations were associated with multiple tumours, smaller tumour size and subserosal location. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although comprehensive, the study is retrospective in nature and all samples have been collected for routine diagnostic purposes. The use of paraffin-embedded samples and immunohistochemistry may have led to an underestimation of mutations. Due to the limited sample size and rarity of especially FH-deficient leiomyomas, the data are partly descriptive. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The contribution of driver mutations in leiomyomas from young myomectomy patients is comparable to tumours obtained from hysterectomies of mostly middle-aged women. Our results support the earlier findings that MED12 mutations are associated with multiple tumours, smaller tumour size and subserosal location. The study emphasizes the distinct molecular background of solitary leiomyomas, and more research is needed to clarify the underlying causes of the notable proportion of wild-type leiomyomas. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by the Academy of Finland (307773), the Sigrid Jusélius Foundation, the Cancer Foundation Finland and the iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship. The authors declare no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Äyräväinen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program and Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Pasanen
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Ahvenainen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program and Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Heikkinen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program and Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P Pakarinen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P Härkki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P Vahteristo
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program and Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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He C, Nelson W, Li H, Xu YD, Dai XJ, Wang YX, Ding YB, Li YP, Li T. Frequency of MED12 Mutation in Relation to Tumor and Patient's Clinical Characteristics: a Meta-analysis. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:357-365. [PMID: 33569750 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00473-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12) is the most frequently mutated gene in uterine leiomyomas (ULs)-with a frequency of up to 85%-suggesting that it plays key roles in the pathogenesis of ULs. However, there is no established relationship between genetic alteration and other risk factors of UL pathogenesis such as the patient's age, weight, and race. In this meta-analysis, we established an association between these risk factors and the frequency of MED12 mutation. We also established the relationship between MED12 mutation with the number and size of tumors in a patient. A systematic literature search was performed for studies published by May 2020 and performed a meta-analysis according to PRISMA guidelines. Twenty-five studies were included in the analysis, representing 3151 tissue samples. MED12 mutations were more common in Black (74.5%) as compared to White (65.8%) and Asian (53.2%) patients. There was no significant relationship between the patient's age and the frequency of mutations (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.41). MED12 mutations were common in patients barring small-sized (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.95) multiple (OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.92) tumors. For the patient's weight, studies were few and the outcome was not statistically significant. This meta-analysis provides valuable information on the relationship between the patient's clinical characteristics and frequency of MED12 mutation among patients barring ULs, which is relevant for understanding the pathogenesis of ULs.Protocol registration: The protocol was registered in PROSPERO with registration number CRD42019123439.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao He
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - William Nelson
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.,Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es salaam, Tanzania
| | - Hui Li
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.,Reproductive Department of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.,The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Ya-Dong Xu
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.,The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Xue-Jiao Dai
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.,The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Ping Li
- Reproductive Department of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.
| | - Tian Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China. .,The Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.
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Selenica P, Conlon N, Gonzalez C, Frosina D, Jungbluth AA, Beets-Tan RGH, Rao MK, Zhang Y, Benayed R, Ladanyi M, Solit DB, Chiang S, Hyman DM, Hensley ML, Soslow RA, Weigelt B, Murali R. Genomic Profiling Aids Classification of Diagnostically Challenging Uterine Mesenchymal Tumors With Myomelanocytic Differentiation. Am J Surg Pathol 2021; 45:77-92. [PMID: 32889887 PMCID: PMC8276853 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Although diagnosis of high-grade uterine mesenchymal tumors (UMTs) exhibiting classic morphologic features is straightforward, diagnosis is more challenging in tumors in which prototypical features are poorly developed, focal, and/or coexist with features seen in other neoplasms. Here, we sought to define the repertoire of somatic genetic alterations in diagnostically challenging UMTs with myomelanocytic differentiation, including some reported as perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas). In 17 samples from 15 women, the tumors were histologically heterogenous. Immunohistochemical expression of at least 1 melanocytic marker (HMB45, Melan-A, or MiTF) was identified in all tumors, and of myogenic markers (desmin or smooth muscle actin) in most tumors. Targeted massively parallel sequencing revealed several genetic alterations, most commonly in TP53 (41% mutation, 12% deletion), TSC2 (29% mutation, 6% deletion), RB1 (18% deletion), ATRX (24% mutation), MED12 (12% mutation), BRCA2 (12% deletion), CDKN2A (6% deletion) as well as FGFR3, NTRK1, and ERBB3 amplification (each 6%). Gene rearrangements (JAZF1-SUZ12; DNAJB6-PLAG1; and SFPQ-TFE3) were identified in 3 tumors. Integrating histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and genetic findings, tumors from 4 patients were consistent with malignant PEComa (1 TFE3-rearranged); 6 were classified as leiomyosarcomas; 3 showed overlapping features of PEComa and other sarcoma types (leiomyosarcoma or low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma); and 2 were classified as sarcoma, not otherwise specified. Our findings suggest that diagnostically challenging UMTs with myomelanocytic differentiation represent a heterogenous group of neoplasms which harbor a diverse repertoire of somatic genetic alterations; these genetic alterations can aid classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pier Selenica
- Departments of Pathology
- GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology
| | - Niamh Conlon
- Departments of Pathology
- Department of Pathology, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | | | | | | | - Regina G. H. Beets-Tan
- GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology
- Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | | | | | | | | | - David B. Solit
- Department of Radiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Medicine
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Mehine M, Khamaiseh S, Ahvenainen T, Heikkinen T, Äyräväinen A, Pakarinen P, Härkki P, Pasanen A, Bützow R, Vahteristo P. 3'RNA Sequencing Accurately Classifies Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded Uterine Leiomyomas. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123839. [PMID: 33352722 PMCID: PMC7766537 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Uterine leiomyomas are benign smooth muscle tumors affecting millions of women globally. On a molecular level, leiomyomas can be classified into three main subtypes, each characterized by mutations affecting either MED12, HMGA2, or FH. Leiomyomas are still widely regarded as a single entity, although early observations suggest that different subtypes behave differently, in terms of both clinical outcomes and therapeutic requirements. The majority of classification studies on leiomyomas have been performed using fresh frozen tissue. Archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue represents an invaluable source of biological material that can be studied retrospectively. Methods capable of generating high-quality data from FFPE material are in high demand. Here, we show that 3′RNA sequencing can accurately classify leiomyomas that have been stored as FFPE tissue in hospital archives for years. A targeted 3′RNA sequencing panel could provide researchers and clinicians with a cost-effective and scalable diagnostic tool for classifying smooth muscle tumors. Abstract Uterine leiomyomas are benign smooth muscle tumors occurring in 70% of women of reproductive age. The majority of leiomyomas harbor one of three well-established genetic changes: a hotspot mutation in MED12, overexpression of HMGA2, or biallelic loss of FH. The majority of studies have classified leiomyomas by complex and costly methods, such as whole-genome sequencing, or by combining multiple traditional methods, such as immunohistochemistry and Sanger sequencing. The type of specimens and the amount of resources available often determine the choice. A more universal, cost-effective, and scalable method for classifying leiomyomas is needed. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether RNA sequencing can accurately classify formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) leiomyomas. We performed 3′RNA sequencing with 44 leiomyoma and 5 myometrium FFPE samples, revealing that the samples clustered according to the mutation status of MED12, HMGA2, and FH. Furthermore, we confirmed each subtype in a publicly available fresh frozen dataset. These results indicate that a targeted 3′RNA sequencing panel could serve as a cost-effective and robust tool for stratifying both fresh frozen and FFPE leiomyomas. This study also highlights 3′RNA sequencing as a promising method for studying the abundance of unexploited tissue material that is routinely stored in hospital archives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miika Mehine
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.M.); (S.K.); (T.A.); (T.H.); (A.Ä.); (A.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sara Khamaiseh
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.M.); (S.K.); (T.A.); (T.H.); (A.Ä.); (A.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Terhi Ahvenainen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.M.); (S.K.); (T.A.); (T.H.); (A.Ä.); (A.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuomas Heikkinen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.M.); (S.K.); (T.A.); (T.H.); (A.Ä.); (A.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna Äyräväinen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.M.); (S.K.); (T.A.); (T.H.); (A.Ä.); (A.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, 00029 Helsinki, Finland; (P.P.); (P.H.)
| | - Päivi Pakarinen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, 00029 Helsinki, Finland; (P.P.); (P.H.)
| | - Päivi Härkki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, 00029 Helsinki, Finland; (P.P.); (P.H.)
| | - Annukka Pasanen
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.M.); (S.K.); (T.A.); (T.H.); (A.Ä.); (A.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, 00029 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ralf Bützow
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.M.); (S.K.); (T.A.); (T.H.); (A.Ä.); (A.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, 00029 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pia Vahteristo
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.M.); (S.K.); (T.A.); (T.H.); (A.Ä.); (A.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +358-2-94125600
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Straub J, Venigalla S, Newman JJ. Mediator's Kinase Module: A Modular Regulator of Cell Fate. Stem Cells Dev 2020; 29:1535-1551. [PMID: 33161841 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2020.0164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Selective gene expression is crucial in maintaining the self-renewing and multipotent properties of stem cells. Mediator is a large, evolutionarily conserved, multi-subunit protein complex that modulates gene expression by relaying signals from cell type-specific transcription factors to RNA polymerase II. In humans, this complex consists of 30 subunits arranged in four modules. One critical module of the Mediator complex is the kinase module consisting of four subunits: MED12, MED13, CDK8, and CCNC. The kinase module exists in variable association with the 26-subunit Mediator core and affects transcription through phosphorylation of transcription factors and by controlling Mediator structure and function. Many studies have shown the kinase module to be a key player in the maintenance of stem cells that is distinct from a general role in transcription. Genetic studies have revealed that dysregulation of this kinase subunit contributes to the development of many human diseases. In this review, we discuss the importance of the Mediator kinase module by examining how this module functions with the more recently identified transcriptional super-enhancers, how changes in the kinase module and its activity can lead to the development of human disease, and the role of this unique module in directing and maintaining cell state. As we look to use stem cells to understand human development and treat human disease through both cell-based therapies and tissue engineering, we need to remain aware of the on-going research and address critical gaps in knowledge related to the molecular mechanisms that control cell fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Straub
- School of Biological Sciences, Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, Louisiana, USA
| | - Sree Venigalla
- School of Biological Sciences, Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jamie J Newman
- School of Biological Sciences, Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, Louisiana, USA
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Kito M, Maeda D, Kudo-Asabe Y, Tamura D, Makino K, Sageshima M, Nanjo H, Terada Y, Goto A. Detection of MED12 mutations in mesenchymal components of uterine adenomyomas. Hum Pathol 2020; 109:31-36. [PMID: 33259844 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2020.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Adenomyoma of the uterus is a biphasic nodular lesion composed of a mesenchymal component with smooth muscle differentiation and a glandular epithelium. The neoplastic nature of uterine adenomyomas has been controversial because some are considered to be nodular adenomyosis. MED12 mutations are involved in the pathogenesis of uterine smooth muscle tumors (leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas) and biphasic tumors of the breast (fibroadenomas and phyllodes tumor). To investigate the histogenesis of uterine adenomyomas, we performed pathological and genetic analyses, including Sanger sequencing of MED12. In total, 15 cases of uterine adenomyomas were retrieved and assessed for clinicopathological factors. Immunohistochemistry for smooth muscle actin, desmin, and CD10 was performed. Exon 2 of MED12 was Sanger sequenced using DNA obtained by macrodissection of the adenomyomas. For cases that were positive for somatic MED12 mutations, we next performed microdissection of the mesenchymal and epithelial components. The DNA extracted from each component was further analyzed for MED12 mutations. MED12 mutations were detected in two adenomyomas (2/15, 13%), all in a known hot spot (codon 44). In both lesions, MED12 mutations were detected in multiple spots of the mesenchymal component. The epithelial component did not harbor MED12 mutations. The relatively low frequency of MED12 mutations suggests that not all adenomyomas are leiomyomas with entrapped glands. However, the results of our study suggest that a subset of uterine adenomyomas are true mesenchymal neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiko Kito
- Department of Cellular and Organ Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Akita University, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Akita, 010-8543, Japan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Akita University, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Daichi Maeda
- Department of Cellular and Organ Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Akita University, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Akita, 010-8543, Japan; Department of Clinical Genomics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Yukitsugu Kudo-Asabe
- Department of Cellular and Organ Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Akita University, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Daisuke Tamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Akita University, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Kenichi Makino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Akita University, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Masato Sageshima
- Department of Pathology, Akita City Hospital, 4-30 Kawamotomatsuokamachi, Akita, Akita, 010-0933, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nanjo
- Department of Pathology, Akita University Hospital, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Terada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Akita University, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Akiteru Goto
- Department of Cellular and Organ Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Akita University, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
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CYP24A1 expression analysis in uterine leiomyoma regarding MED12 mutation profile. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2020; 303:787-792. [PMID: 33025089 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05825-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uterine leiomyoma (ULM) is the most common gynecological tumor. Recent studies have revealed the role of hypovitaminosis D as a major risk factor in the disease development. CYP24A, a mitochondrial enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of 1,25(OH)2D3, is reported to be over-expressed in several human cancers. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression level of CYP24A1 in leiomyoma samples compared with the adjacent tissues regarding the MED12 mutation profile. MATERIALS AND METHODS In the present study, 61 ULMs and adjacent tissue samples were collected from 51 women undergoing hysterectomy and myomectomy. The samples were Sanger sequenced for MED12 mutation, and the expression level of CYP24A1 was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS The results demonstrated that CYP24A1 gene was ectopically expressed in 18% of uterine leiomyoma tissues, although this expression was independent of the MED12 mutation profile. CONCLUSION The findings of the present study support current evidence that dysregulation of vitamin D signaling and metabolic pathways may be involved in at least some subtypes of ULMs.
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Mas A, Simón C. Molecular differential diagnosis of uterine leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:1115-1123. [PMID: 30184111 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (LM) and leiomyosarcomas (LMS) are considered biologically unrelated tumors due to their cytogenetic and molecular disparity. Yet, these tumors share morphological and molecular characteristics that cannot be differentiated through current clinical diagnostic tests, and thus cannot be definitively classified as benign or malignant until surgery. Newer approaches are needed for the identification of these tumors, as has been done for other tissues. The application of next generation sequencing enables the detection of new mutations that, when coupled to machine learning bioinformatic tools, advances our understanding of chromosomal instability. These approaches in the context of LM and LMS could allow the discovery of genetic variants and possible genomic markers. Additionally, the potential clinical utility of circulating cell-free tumor DNA could revolutionize the noninvasive detection and monitoring of these tumors. Here, we seek to provide a perspective on the molecular background of LM and LMS, recognizing their distinct molecular features that may lead to improved diagnosis and personalized treatments, which would have a measurable impact on women's reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymara Mas
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain.,Igenomix Foundation/Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Clínico (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Simón
- Igenomix Foundation/Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Clínico (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain.,Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Li Y, Qiang W, Griffin BB, Gao T, Chakravarti D, Bulun S, Kim JJ, Wei JJ. HMGA2-mediated tumorigenesis through angiogenesis in leiomyoma. Fertil Steril 2020; 114:1085-1096. [PMID: 32868105 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the role of HMGA2 in promoting angiogenesis in uterine leiomyoma (LM). DESIGN This study involved evaluation of vessel density and angiogenic factors in leiomyomas with HMGA2 overexpression; examining angiogenic factor expression and AKT signaling in myometrial (MM) and leiomyoma cells by introducing HMGA2 overexpression in vitro; and exploring vessel formation induced by HMGA2 overexpression both in vitro and in vivo. SETTING University research laboratory. PATIENTS None. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The main outcome measures include vessel density in leiomyomas with HMGA2 (HMGA2-LM) or MED12 (MED12-LM) alteration; angiogenic factor expression in primary leiomyoma and in vitro cell line model; and vessel formation in leiomyoma cells with HMGA2 overexpression in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Angiogenic factors and receptors were significantly upregulated at mRNA and protein levels in HMGA2-LM. Specifically, HMGA2-LM exhibited increased expression of VEGFA, EGF, bFGF, TGFα, VEGFR1, and VEGFR2 compared to MED12-LM and myometrium. Overexpression of HMGA2 in MM and LM cell lines resulted in increased secretion of angiogenesis-associated factors. Secreted factors promoted human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) migration, tube formation, and wound healing. HMGA2 overexpression upregulated IGF2BP2 and pAKT, and silencing the IGF2BP2 gene reduced pAKT levels and reduced HUVEC migration. Myometrial cells with stable HMGA2 overexpression exhibited increased colony formation and cell growth in vitro and formed xenografts with increased blood vessels. CONCLUSIONS HMGA2-LM have a high vasculature density, which likely contributes to tumor growth and disease burden of this leiomyoma subtype. HMGA2 plays an important role in angiogenesis and the involvement of IGF2BP2-mediated pAKT activity in angiogenesis, which provides a potential novel target for therapy for this subtype of LM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinuo Li
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Wenan Qiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Brannan Brooks Griffin
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Tingting Gao
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Debabrata Chakravarti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Serdar Bulun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - J Julie Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jian-Jun Wei
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois.
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Zhao Z, Wang W, You Y, Zhu L, Feng F. Novel FH mutation associated with multiple uterine leiomyomas in Chinese siblings. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 8:e1068. [PMID: 31773923 PMCID: PMC6978397 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fumarate hydratase (FH) plays an important role in cell metabolism. Germline mutation of FH may cause hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer syndrome. The correlation between various mutations of FH gene and the phenotype is controversial and needs further study. Therefore, this article described a novel mutation in siblings with multiple uterine leiomyomas. Methods Whole‐exome sequencing was performed on the two patients and their family members using their peripheral blood. The function of the DNA variant was predicted in silico. Results Pathology results showed characteristics of leiomyoma. A novel missense mutation of FH gene (c.1214A>G, p.Leu405Ser) was identified in both patients and their father. This mutation was predicted to be probably pathogenic and deleterious. Conclusion This study indicated that the novel mutation may be responsible for the occurrence of multiple uterine leiomyomas. However, the risk of renal disease should not be ignored and regular screening was recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zichen Zhao
- Eight-year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenhui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan You
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengzhi Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Mas A, Alonso R, Garrido-Gómez T, Escorcia P, Montero B, Jiménez-Almazán J, Martín J, Pellicer N, Monleón J, Simón C. The differential diagnoses of uterine leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas using DNA and RNA sequencing. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2019; 221:320.e1-320.e23. [PMID: 31121144 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although uterine leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas are considered biologically unrelated tumors, they share morphologic and histologic characteristics that complicate their differential diagnosis. The long-term therapeutic option for leiomyoma is laparoscopic myomectomy with morcellation, particularly for patients who wish to preserve their fertility. However, because of the potential dissemination of undiagnosed or hidden leiomyosarcoma from morcellation, there is a need to develop a preoperative assessment of malignancy risk. OBJECTIVE Through an integrated comparative genomic and transcriptomic analysis, we aim to identify differential genetic targets in leiomyomas vs leiomyosarcomas using next-generation sequencing as the first step toward preoperative differential diagnosis. STUDY DESIGN Targeted sequencing of DNA and RNA coding regions for solid tumor-associated genes was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples from 13 leiomyomas and 13 leiomyosarcoma cases. DNA sequencing was used to identify copy number variations, single-nucleotide variants, and small insertions/deletions. RNA sequencing was used to identify gene fusions, splice variants, and/or differential gene expression profiles. RESULTS In leiomyosarcomas, tumor mutation burden was higher in terms of copy number variations, single nucleotide variants, small insertions/deletions, and gene fusions compared with leiomyomas. For copy number variations, 20 genes were affected by deletions in leiomyosarcomas, compared with 6 observed losses in leiomyomas. Gains (duplications) were identified in 19 genes in leiomyosarcomas, but only 3 genes in leiomyomas. The most common mutations (single-nucleotide variants and insertions/deletions) for leiomyosarcomas were identified in 105 genes of all analyzed leiomyosarcomas; 82 genes were affected in leiomyomas. Of note, 1 tumor previously diagnosed as leiomyosarcoma was established as inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor along this study with a novel ALK-TNS1 fusion. Finally, a differential transcriptomic profile was observed for 11 of 55 genes analyzed in leiomyosarcomas; 8.5% of initially diagnosed leiomyosarcomas showed high-confidence, novel gene fusions that were associated with these tumors. CONCLUSION Through integrated comparative genomic and transcriptomic analyses, we identified novel differential genetic targets that potentially differentiate leiomyosarcomas and leiomyomas. This provides a new insight into the differential diagnosis of these myometrial tumors.
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Gregová M, Hojný J, Němejcová K, Bártů M, Mára M, Boudová B, Laco J, Krbal L, Tichá I, Dundr P. Leiomyoma with Bizarre Nuclei: a Study of 108 Cases Focusing on Clinicopathological Features, Morphology, and Fumarate Hydratase Alterations. Pathol Oncol Res 2019; 26:1527-1537. [DOI: 10.1007/s12253-019-00739-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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50
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Mello JBH, Barros-Filho MC, Abreu FB, Cirilo PDR, Domingues MAC, Pontes A, Rogatto SR. MicroRNAs involved in the HMGA2 deregulation and its co-occurrence with MED12 mutation in uterine leiomyoma. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:556-563. [PMID: 30376129 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can the mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12) mutation and high mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2) overexpression co-occurrence be explained by the alternative mechanism of HMGA2 dysregulation in uterine leiomyomas (UL)? SUMMARY ANSWER The co-occurrence of MED12 mutation and HMGA2 overexpression, and a negative correlation of five validated or predicted microRNAs that target HMGA2 were reported. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The recent stratification of UL, according to recurrent and mutually exclusive genomic alterations affecting HMGA2, MED12, fumarate hydratase (FH) and collagen type IV alpha 5-alpha 6 (COL4A5-COL4A6) pointed out the involvement of distinct molecular pathways. However, the mechanisms of regulation involving these drivers are poorly explored. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 78 UL and 34 adjacent normal myometrium (NM) tissues was collected from 56 patients who underwent hysterectomies at a single institution. The patients were treated at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil, from October 1995 to February 2004. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Gene expression profiling was evaluated from fresh frozen tissues and compared with MED12 mutations at exon 2. In addition, RT-qPCR was applied to evaluate the expression levels of HMGA2 and their predictive miRNA regulators: hsa-let-7a, miR-26a, miR-26b, mir-93 and mir-106b. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE An unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis revealed two main clusters with one of them (26 of 42 UL) showing an enrichment of MED12 mutated cases (18 of 26 UL). Increased expression levels of HMGA2 were observed in both clusters, including cases with MED12 mutation (cluster 1:18 UL). A significant HMGA2 overexpression (P < 0.001) in UL in comparison with NM was found. Five miRNAs predicted to regulate HMGA2 were significantly downregulated (P < 0.001) and negatively correlated to HMGA2 expression levels (P < 0.05) in UL. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION An in vivo functional study was not performed to validate the microRNAs and HMGA2 interaction due to technical limitations. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS HMGA2 overexpression was detected in a significant number of MED12 mutated ULs, suggesting that these alterations coexist. Furthermore, five miRNAs were described as potential regulators of HMGA2 expression in UL. LARGE-SCALE DATA Data available in the Gene Expression Omnibus GSE42939. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by grants from Fundação de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (# 2008/58835-2) and Conselho Nacional de Pesquisa (# 485032/2007-4), Brazil. The authors declared having no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B H Mello
- CIPE-International Research Center-AC Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - M C Barros-Filho
- CIPE-International Research Center-AC Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - F B Abreu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - P D R Cirilo
- Hermes Pardini Institute, Research & Development Department, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M A C Domingues
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo State-UNESP, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - A Pontes
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo State-UNESP, Botucatu-SP, Brazil
| | - S R Rogatto
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Vejle Hospital, Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, DK, Denmark
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