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Turner N, Hamidi S, Ouni R, Rico R, Henderson YC, Puche M, Alekseev S, Colunga-Minutti JG, Zafereo ME, Lai SY, Kim ST, Cabanillas ME, Nurieva R. Emerging therapeutic options for follicular-derived thyroid cancer in the era of immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1369780. [PMID: 38868771 PMCID: PMC11167082 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1369780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Although most follicular-derived thyroid cancers are well differentiated and have an overall excellent prognosis following treatment with surgery and radioiodine, management of advanced thyroid cancers, including iodine refractory disease and poorly differentiated/undifferentiated subtypes, is more challenging. Over the past decade, better understanding of the genetic drivers and immune milieu of advanced thyroid cancers has led to significant progress in the management of these patients. Numerous targeted kinase inhibitors are now approved by the U.S Food and Drug administration (FDA) for the treatment of advanced, radioiodine refractory differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC) as well as anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). Immunotherapy has also been thoroughly studied and has shown promise in selected cases. In this review, we summarize the progress in the understanding of the genetic landscape and the cellular and molecular basis of radioiodine refractory-DTC and ATC, as well as discuss the current treatment options and future therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naimah Turner
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sarah Hamidi
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Rim Ouni
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Rene Rico
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ying C. Henderson
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Maria Puche
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Engineering, Houston Christian University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sayan Alekseev
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Program of Biology, College of Sciences, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jocelynn G. Colunga-Minutti
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Program of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS), Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mark E. Zafereo
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Stephen Y. Lai
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sang T. Kim
- Department of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Maria E. Cabanillas
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Roza Nurieva
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Program of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS), Houston, TX, United States
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Li C, Weng J, Yang L, Gong H, Liu Z. Development of an anoikis-related gene signature and prognostic model for predicting the tumor microenvironment and response to immunotherapy in colorectal cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1378305. [PMID: 38779664 PMCID: PMC11109372 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1378305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The effect of anoikis-related genes (ARGs) on clinicopathological characteristics and tumor microenvironment remains unclear. We comprehensively analyzed anoikis-associated gene signatures of 1057 colorectal cancer (CRC) samples based on 18 ARGs. Anoikis-related molecular subtypes and gene features were identified through consensus clustering analysis. The biological functions and immune cell infiltration were assessed using the GSVA and ssGSEA algorithms. Prognostic risk score was constructed using multivariate Cox regression analysis. The immunological features of high-risk and low-risk groups were compared. Finally, DAPK2-overexpressing plasmid was transfected to measure its effect on tumor proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. We identified 18 prognostic ARGs. Three different subtypes of anoikis were identified and demonstrated to be linked to distinct biological processes and prognosis. Then, a risk score model was constructed and identified as an independent prognostic factor. Compared to the high-risk group, patients in the low-risk group exhibited longer survival, higher enrichment of checkpoint function, increased expression of CTLA4 and PD-L1, higher IPS scores, and a higher proportion of MSI-H. The results of RT-PCR indicated that the expression of DAPK2 mRNA was significantly downregulated in CRC tissues compared to normal tissues. Increased DAPK2 expression significantly suppressed cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis, and inhibited migration and invasion. The nude mice xenograft tumor model confirmed that high expression of DAPK2 inhibited tumor growth. Collectively, we discovered an innovative anoikis-related gene signature associated with prognosis and TME. Besides, our study indicated that DAPK2 can serve as a promising therapeutic target for inhibiting the growth and metastasis of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanchang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junyong Weng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Le Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hangjun Gong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaolong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Yin H, Tang Q, Xia H, Bi F. Targeting RAF dimers in RAS mutant tumors: From biology to clinic. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:1895-1923. [PMID: 38799634 PMCID: PMC11120325 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.02.018] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
RAS mutations occur in approximately 30% of tumors worldwide and have a poor prognosis due to limited therapies. Covalent targeting of KRAS G12C has achieved significant success in recent years, but there is still a lack of efficient therapeutic approaches for tumors with non-G12C KRAS mutations. A highly promising approach is to target the MAPK pathway downstream of RAS, with a particular focus on RAF kinases. First-generation RAF inhibitors have been authorized to treat BRAF mutant tumors for over a decade. However, their use in RAS-mutated tumors is not recommended due to the paradoxical ERK activation mainly caused by RAF dimerization. To address the issue of RAF dimerization, type II RAF inhibitors have emerged as leading candidates. Recent clinical studies have shown the initial effectiveness of these agents against RAS mutant tumors. Promisingly, type II RAF inhibitors in combination with MEK or ERK inhibitors have demonstrated impressive efficacy in RAS mutant tumors. This review aims to clarify the importance of RAF dimerization in cellular signaling and resistance to treatment in tumors with RAS mutations, as well as recent progress in therapeutic approaches to address the problem of RAF dimerization in RAS mutant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Yin
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiulin Tang
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hongwei Xia
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Feng Bi
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Bhamidipati D, Pellatt A, Subbiah V. Targeting All BRAF Alterations: The (Re)-Search Continues. JCO Precis Oncol 2024; 8:e2300670. [PMID: 38380848 PMCID: PMC10896466 DOI: 10.1200/po.23.00670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
VivekSubbiah & colleagues delve into the @ASCO #TAPURStudy, shedding light on the importance of targeting ALL #BRAFAlterations, beyond V600E. (Re)-search continues, urging us to push the boundaries and unlock new possibilities in #PrecisionMedicine. #CancerResearch #JCOPO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Bhamidipati
- Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Andrew Pellatt
- Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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Bahar ME, Kim HJ, Kim DR. Targeting the RAS/RAF/MAPK pathway for cancer therapy: from mechanism to clinical studies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:455. [PMID: 38105263 PMCID: PMC10725898 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01705-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic dissemination of solid tumors, a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, underscores the urgent need for enhanced insights into the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying metastasis, chemoresistance, and the mechanistic backgrounds of individuals whose cancers are prone to migration. The most prevalent signaling cascade governed by multi-kinase inhibitors is the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, encompassing the RAS-RAF-MAPK kinase (MEK)-extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) pathway. RAF kinase is a primary mediator of the MAPK pathway, responsible for the sequential activation of downstream targets, such as MEK and the transcription factor ERK, which control numerous cellular and physiological processes, including organism development, cell cycle control, cell proliferation and differentiation, cell survival, and death. Defects in this signaling cascade are associated with diseases such as cancer. RAF inhibitors (RAFi) combined with MEK blockers represent an FDA-approved therapeutic strategy for numerous RAF-mutant cancers, including melanoma, non-small cell lung carcinoma, and thyroid cancer. However, the development of therapy resistance by cancer cells remains an important barrier. Autophagy, an intracellular lysosome-dependent catabolic recycling process, plays a critical role in the development of RAFi resistance in cancer. Thus, targeting RAF and autophagy could be novel treatment strategies for RAF-mutant cancers. In this review, we delve deeper into the mechanistic insights surrounding RAF kinase signaling in tumorigenesis and RAFi-resistance. Furthermore, we explore and discuss the ongoing development of next-generation RAF inhibitors with enhanced therapeutic profiles. Additionally, this review sheds light on the functional interplay between RAF-targeted therapies and autophagy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Entaz Bahar
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Sciences and Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea
| | - Hyun Joon Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Sciences and Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea
| | - Deok Ryong Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Sciences and Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea.
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Vasta JD, Michaud A, Zimprich CA, Beck MT, Swiatnicki MR, Zegzouti H, Thomas MR, Wilkinson J, Crapster JA, Robers MB. Protomer selectivity of type II RAF inhibitors within the RAS/RAF complex. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1354-1365.e6. [PMID: 37643616 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.07.019] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
RAF dimer inhibitors offer therapeutic potential in RAF- and RAS-driven cancers. The utility of such drugs is predicated on their capacity to occupy both RAF protomers in the RAS-RAF signaling complex. Here we describe a method to conditionally quantify drug-target occupancy at selected RAF protomers within an active RAS-RAF complex in cells. RAF target engagement can be measured in the presence or absence of any mutant KRAS allele, enabling the high-affinity state of RAF dimer inhibitors to be quantified in the cellular milieu. The intracellular protomer selectivity of clinical-stage type II RAF inhibitors revealed that ARAF protomer engagement, but not engagement of BRAF or CRAF, is commensurate with inhibition of MAPK signaling in various mutant RAS cell lines. Our results support a fundamental role for ARAF in mutant RAS signaling and reveal poor ARAF protomer vulnerability for a cohort of RAF inhibitors undergoing clinical evaluation.
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7
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Singh A, Sonawane P, Kumar A, Singh H, Naumovich V, Pathak P, Grishina M, Khalilullah H, Jaremko M, Emwas AH, Verma A, Kumar P. Challenges and Opportunities in the Crusade of BRAF Inhibitors: From 2002 to 2022. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:27819-27844. [PMID: 37576670 PMCID: PMC10413849 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c00332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Serine/threonine-protein kinase B-Raf (BRAF; RAF = rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma) plays an important role in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling cascade. Somatic mutations in the BRAF gene were first discovered in 2002 by Davies et al., which was a major breakthrough in cancer research. Subsequently, three different classes of BRAF mutants have been discovered. This class includes class I monomeric mutants (BRAFV600), class II BRAF homodimer mutants (non-V600), and class III BRAF heterodimers (non-V600). Cancers caused by these include melanoma, thyroid cancer, ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, nonsmall cell lung cancer, and others. In this study, we have highlighted the major binding pockets in BRAF protein, their active and inactive conformations with inhibitors, and BRAF dimerization and its importance in paradoxical activation and BRAF mutation. We have discussed the first-, second-, and third-generation drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration and drugs under clinical trials with all four different binding approaches with DFG-IN/OUT and αC-IN/OUT for BRAF protein. We have investigated particular aspects and difficulties with all three generations of inhibitors. Finally, this study has also covered recent developments in synthetic BRAF inhibitors (from their discovery in 2002 to 2022), their unique properties, and importance in inhibiting BRAF mutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit
Kumar Singh
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Pankaj Sonawane
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Adarsh Kumar
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Harshwardhan Singh
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Vladislav Naumovich
- Laboratory
of Computational Modeling of Drugs, Higher Medical and Biological
School, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk 454008, Russia
| | - Prateek Pathak
- Laboratory
of Computational Modeling of Drugs, Higher Medical and Biological
School, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk 454008, Russia
| | - Maria Grishina
- Laboratory
of Computational Modeling of Drugs, Higher Medical and Biological
School, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk 454008, Russia
| | - Habibullah Khalilullah
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Unaizah College of
Pharmacy, Qassim University, Unayzah 51911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariusz Jaremko
- Smart-Health
Initiative and Red Sea Research Center, Division of Biological and
Environmental Sciences and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul-Hamid Emwas
- Core
Laboratories, King Abdullah University of
Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi
Arabia
| | - Amita Verma
- Bioorganic
and Medicinal Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of
Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
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8
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Żołek T, Mazurek A, Grudzinski IP. In Silico Studies of Novel Vemurafenib Derivatives as BRAF Kinase Inhibitors. Molecules 2023; 28:5273. [PMID: 37446932 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28135273] [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: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BRAF inhibitors have improved the treatment of advanced or metastatic melanoma in patients that harbor a BRAFT1799A mutation. Because of new insights into the role of aberrant glycosylation in drug resistance, we designed and studied three novel vemurafenib derivatives possessing pentose-associated aliphatic ligands-methyl-, ethyl-, and isopropyl-ketopentose moieties-as potent BRAFV600E kinase inhibitors. The geometries of these derivatives were optimized using the density functional theory method. Molecular dynamic simulations were performed to find interactions between the ligands and BRAFV600E kinase. Virtual screening was performed to assess the fate of derivatives and their systemic toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity. The computational mapping of the studied ligand-BRAFV600E complexes indicated that the central pyrrole and pyridine rings of derivatives were located within the hydrophobic ATP-binding site of the BRAFV600E protein kinase, while the pentose ring and alkyl chains were mainly included in hydrogen bonding interactions. The isopropyl-ketopentose derivative was found to bind the BRAFV600E oncoprotein with more favorable energy interaction than vemurafenib. ADME-TOX in silico studies showed that the derivatives possessed some desirable pharmacokinetic and toxicologic properties. The present results open a new avenue to study the carbohydrate derivatives of vemurafenib as potent BRAFV600E kinase inhibitors to treat melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Żołek
- Department of Organic and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02 097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adam Mazurek
- Department of Toxicology and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02 097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ireneusz P Grudzinski
- Department of Toxicology and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02 097 Warsaw, Poland
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Cipri S, Del Baldo G, Fabozzi F, Boccuto L, Carai A, Mastronuzzi A. Unlocking the power of precision medicine for pediatric low-grade gliomas: molecular characterization for targeted therapies with enhanced safety and efficacy. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1204829. [PMID: 37397394 PMCID: PMC10311254 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1204829] [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: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In the past decade significant advancements have been made in the discovery of targetable lesions in pediatric low-grade gliomas (pLGGs). These tumors account for 30-50% of all pediatric brain tumors with generally a favorable prognosis. The latest 2021 WHO classification of pLGGs places a strong emphasis on molecular characterization for significant implications on prognosis, diagnosis, management, and the potential target treatment. With the technological advances and new applications in molecular diagnostics, the molecular characterization of pLGGs has revealed that tumors that appear similar under a microscope can have different genetic and molecular characteristics. Therefore, the new classification system divides pLGGs into several distinct subtypes based on these characteristics, enabling a more accurate strategy for diagnosis and personalized therapy based on the specific genetic and molecular abnormalities present in each tumor. This approach holds great promise for improving outcomes for patients with pLGGs, highlighting the importance of the recent breakthroughs in the discovery of targetable lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selene Cipri
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Cell Therapy, Gene Therapies and Hemopoietic Transplant, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giada Del Baldo
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Cell Therapy, Gene Therapies and Hemopoietic Transplant, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Fabozzi
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Cell Therapy, Gene Therapies and Hemopoietic Transplant, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Boccuto
- Healthcare Genetics Program, School of Nursing, College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
| | - Andrea Carai
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurosurgery Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Mastronuzzi
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Cell Therapy, Gene Therapies and Hemopoietic Transplant, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Fröhlich F, Gerosa L, Muhlich J, Sorger PK. Mechanistic model of MAPK signaling reveals how allostery and rewiring contribute to drug resistance. Mol Syst Biol 2023; 19:e10988. [PMID: 36700386 PMCID: PMC9912026 DOI: 10.15252/msb.202210988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BRAF is prototypical of oncogenes that can be targeted therapeutically and the treatment of BRAFV600E melanomas with RAF and MEK inhibitors results in rapid tumor regression. However, drug-induced rewiring generates a drug adapted state thought to be involved in acquired resistance and disease recurrence. In this article, we study mechanisms of adaptive rewiring in BRAFV600E melanoma cells using an energy-based implementation of ordinary differential equation (ODE) modeling in combination with proteomic, transcriptomic and imaging data. We develop a method for causal tracing of ODE models and identify two parallel MAPK reaction channels that are differentially sensitive to RAF and MEK inhibitors due to differences in protein oligomerization and drug binding. We describe how these channels, and timescale separation between immediate-early signaling and transcriptional feedback, create a state in which the RAS-regulated MAPK channel can be activated by growth factors under conditions in which the BRAFV600E -driven channel is fully inhibited. Further development of the approaches in this article is expected to yield a unified model of adaptive drug resistance in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Fröhlich
- Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology, Department of Systems BiologyHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Luca Gerosa
- Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology, Department of Systems BiologyHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA,Present address:
Genentech, Inc.South San FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Jeremy Muhlich
- Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology, Department of Systems BiologyHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Peter K Sorger
- Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology, Department of Systems BiologyHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
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11
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Treatment of Metastatic Melanoma with a Combination of Immunotherapies and Molecularly Targeted Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153779. [PMID: 35954441 PMCID: PMC9367420 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Immunotherapies and molecularly targeted therapies have drastically changed the therapeutic approach for unresectable advanced or metastatic melanoma. The majority of melanoma patients have benefitted from these therapies; however, some patients acquire resistance to them. Novel combinations of immunotherapies and molecularly targeted therapies may be more efficient in treating these patients. In this review, we discuss various combination therapies under pre-clinical and clinical development which can reduce toxicity, enhance efficacy, and prevent recurrences in patients with metastatic melanoma. Abstract Melanoma possesses invasive metastatic growth patterns and is one of the most aggressive types of skin cancer. In 2021, it is estimated that 7180 deaths were attributed to melanoma in the United States alone. Once melanoma metastasizes, traditional therapies are no longer effective. Instead, immunotherapies, such as ipilimumab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab, are the treatment options for malignant melanoma. Several biomarkers involved in tumorigenesis have been identified as potential targets for molecularly targeted melanoma therapy, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Unfortunately, melanoma quickly acquires resistance to these molecularly targeted therapies. To bypass resistance, combination treatment with immunotherapies and single or multiple TKIs have been employed and have been shown to improve the prognosis of melanoma patients compared to monotherapy. This review discusses several combination therapies that target melanoma biomarkers, such as BRAF, MEK, RAS, c-KIT, VEGFR, c-MET and PI3K. Several of these regimens are already FDA-approved for treating metastatic melanoma, while others are still in clinical trials. Continued research into the causes of resistance and factors influencing the efficacy of these combination treatments, such as specific mutations in oncogenic proteins, may further improve the effectiveness of combination therapies, providing a better prognosis for melanoma patients.
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12
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Green BL, Grant RR, Richie CT, Chatterjee B, De Melo MS, Barr FG, Pacak K, Agarwal SK, Nilubol N. Novel GLCCI1-BRAF fusion drives kinase signaling in a case of pheochromocytomatosis. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 187:185-196. [PMID: 35861986 PMCID: PMC9347184 DOI: 10.1530/eje-21-0797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recurrent and metastatic pheochromocytoma (PCC) are rare advanced endocrine neoplasms with limited treatment options. Insight into the pathogenic molecular alterations in patients with advanced PCC can provide therapeutic options for precisely targeting dysregulated pathways. OBJECTIVE We report the discovery and characterization of a novel BRAF-containing fusion transcript and its downstream molecular alterations in a patient with recurrent PCC with peritoneal seeding (pheochromocytomatosis). METHODS We reviewed the medical record of a patient with pheochromocytomatosis. A comprehensive pan-cancer molecular profiling using next-generation sequencing (NGS) as well as confirmatory real-time-quantitative PCR were performed on surgical specimens. BRAF rearrangement and downstream molecular changes were assayed using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC), respectively. Western blot was used to assess the in vitro activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway and the EMT markers in transfected HEK-293 cells. RESULTS The NGS analysis of a specimen from a 72-year-old female patient with pheochromocytomatosis showed an in-frame fusion of exon 3 of Glucocorticoid Induced 1 (GLCCI1) to exon 9 of BRAF. The upstream auto-inhibitory domain of BRAF was excluded from the GLCCI1-BRAF fusion; however, the downstream BRAF kinase domain was intact. A BRAF rearrangement was confirmed via a BRAF-specific break-apart FISH assay. Four separate tumor foci harbored GLCCI1-BRAF fusion. IHC demonstrated increased phosphorylated MEK. HEK-293 cells transfected with the GLCCI1-BRAF fusion demonstrated increased phosphorylated MEK as well as higher expression of EMT markers SNAI1 and ZEB1 in vitro. CONCLUSION We demonstrate a novel pathogenic gene fusion of GLCCI1 with the oncogenic kinase domain of BRAF, resulting in an activation of the MAPK signaling pathway and EMT markers. Thus, this patient may benefit from clinically available MEK and/or BRAF inhibitors when systemic therapy is indicated. SUMMARY STATEMENT This report is the first of GLCCI1 fused to BRAF in a human neoplasm and only the second BRAF-containing fusion transcript in PCC. Detailed molecular characterization of PCC can be a valuable tool in managing patients with recurrent PCC and pheochromocytomatosis that represents a significant clinical challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin L. Green
- Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Robert R.C. Grant
- Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Christopher T. Richie
- Genetic Engineering and Viral Vector Core, Intramural Research Program, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Suite 200, 251 Bayview Blvd, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Bishwanath Chatterjee
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Michelly Sampaio De Melo
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Frederic G. Barr
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Karel Pacak
- Section on Medical Neuroendocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Bldg. 10, Room 1E-3140, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Sunita K. Agarwal
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Naris Nilubol
- Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Lin C, Ma M, Zhang Y, Li L, Long F, Xie C, Xiao H, Liu T, Tian B, Yang K, Guo Y, Chen M, Chou J, Gong N, Li X, Hu G. The N 6-methyladenosine modification of circALG1 promotes the metastasis of colorectal cancer mediated by the miR-342-5p/PGF signalling pathway. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:80. [PMID: 35305647 PMCID: PMC8933979 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01560-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have shown that the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification enhances the binding ability of mRNAs/long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) to microRNAs (miRNAs), but the impact of this modification on the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) function of circular RNAs (circRNAs) is unclear. METHODS We used a human circRNA microarray to detect the expression profiles of circRNAs in 3 pairs of cancer and paracancerous tissues from patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and 3 pairs of peripheral blood specimens from patients with CRC and healthy individuals. The circRNAs highly expressed in both peripheral blood and tumour tissues of patients with CRC, including circALG1, were screened. A quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis of an expanded sample size was performed to detect the expression level of circALG1 in peripheral blood and tumour tissues of patients with CRC and determine its correlation with clinicopathological features, and circRNA loop-forming validation and stability assays were then conducted. Transwell assays and a nude mouse cancer metastasis model were used to study the function of circALG1 in CRC and the role of altered m6A modification levels on the regulation of circALG1 function. qRT-PCR, western blot (WB), Transwell, RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP), RNA antisense purification (RAP), and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were performed to analyse the ceRNA mechanism of circALG1 and the effect of the m6A modification of circALG1 on the ceRNA function of this circRNA. RESULTS CircALG1 was highly expressed in both the peripheral blood and tumour tissues of patients with CRC and was closely associated with CRC metastasis. CircALG1 overexpression promoted the migration and invasion of CRC cells, and circALG1 silencing and reduction of the circALG1 m6A modification level inhibited CRC cell migration and invasion. In vivo experiments further confirmed the prometastatic role of circALG1 in CRC. Further mechanistic studies showed that circALG1 upregulated the expression of placental growth factor (PGF) by binding to miR-342-5p and that m6A modification enhanced the binding of circALG1 to miR-342-5p and promoted its ceRNA function. CONCLUSION M6A modification enhances the binding ability of circALG1 to miR-342-5p to promote the ceRNA function of circALG1, and circALG1 could be a potential therapeutic target in and a prognostic marker for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changwei Lin
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Min Ma
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Yi Zhang
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Liang Li
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Fei Long
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Canbin Xie
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Hua Xiao
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Department of Hepatobiliary and Intestinal Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Teng Liu
- Hunan Chest Hospital, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Buning Tian
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Kaiyan Yang
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Yihang Guo
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Miao Chen
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Jin Chou
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Ni Gong
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Xiaorong Li
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Gui Hu
- grid.431010.7Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013 China
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Next-Generation Sequencing Targeted Panel in Routine Care for Metastatic Colon Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225750. [PMID: 34830904 PMCID: PMC8616114 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The place of Next-Generation-Sequencing (NGS) targeted panel in routine practice in digestive oncology should be addressed. The aim of our retrospective study was to assess the results and impact of NGS panel for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients. In total, 210 patients with mCRC were included. Based on our findings, a major advantage of the NGS panel over single gene techniques is that, beyond the classical hotspots, it allows for an exhaustive search for molecular abnormalities in routinely recommended genes. In addition, routine NGS is a way to detect amplifications associated with resistance to anti-EGFR therapies and low-prevalence mutations in actionable genes, providing patients with the opportunity to access innovative targeted therapies. In conclusion, NGS targeted panel in mCRC is feasible in routine practice. Nevertheless, panels need to be regularly updated and in-depth studies are needed to better analyse the prognostic factors. Abstract In digestive oncology, the clinical impact of targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) in routine practice should be addressed. In this work, we studied the impact of a 22-gene NGS amplicon-based panel with Ion Torrent Proton Sequencing, prospectively performed in routine practice. We analyzed the results of extended molecular testing, beyond RAS and BRAF, in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients in a single-center, retrospective, observational study of consecutive mCRC patients followed up at the Georges Pompidou European Hospital between January 2016 and December 2018. Overall, 210 patients with mCRC were included. Median follow-up was 25.4 months (IQR: 14.9–39.5). The three most frequently mutated genes were: TP53 (63%), KRAS (41%) and PIK3CA (19%). A positive association was found between overall survival and performance status (PS) ≥ 2 (HR: 4.91 (1.84–13.1); p = 0.001) and differentiation (HR: 4.70 (1.51–14.6); p = 0.007) in multivariate analysis. The NGS panel enabled five patients to access a targeted therapy not currently registered for CRC. In conclusion, targeted NGS panels in mCRC are feasible in routine practice, but need to be regularly updated and in-depth studies are needed to better analyze the prognostic factors.
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Development and Validation of Targeted Gene Sequencing Panel Based Companion Diagnostic for Korean Patients with Solid Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205112. [PMID: 34680263 PMCID: PMC8534153 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205112] [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: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary We have developed and analytically validated the Korean Pan-cancer Companion Diagnostic (CDX) Panel to apply targeted anticancer drugs to Korean patients based on the molecular characteristics of tumors using tumor samples without matched patient normal samples. The panel included 31 genes with reported single nucleotide variants, 9 genes with reported copy number variations, and 15 genes with predictive responses to targeted drugs under clinical testing, enabling the panel to be analyzed for the targets of 30 targeted anticancer drugs. It is cost-effective and optimized for cancer type-specific therapy in Korean cancer patients across solid cancer types while minimizing the limitations of existing approaches. This gene screening method is expected to reduce test turnaround time and cost, making it a balanced approach to investigate solid cancer-related gene regions. Abstract Recently, several panels using two representative targeting methods have been developed but they do not reflect racial specificity, especially for Asians. We have developed and analytically validated the Korean Pan-cancer Companion Diagnostic (CDX) Panel to apply targeted anticancer drugs to Korean patients based on the molecular characteristics of tumors using tumor samples without matched patient normal samples. The panel included 31 genes with reported single nucleotide variants, 9 genes with reported copy number variations, and 15 genes with predictive responses to targeted drugs under clinical testing, enabling the panel to be analyzed for the targets of 30 targeted anticancer drugs. It is cost-effective and optimized for cancer type-specific therapy in Korean cancer patients across solid cancer types while minimizing the limitations of existing approaches. In addition, the optimized filtering protocol for somatic variants from tumor-only samples enables researchers to use this panel without matched normal samples. To verify the panel, 241 frozen tumor tissues and 71 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples from several institutes were registered. This gene screening method is expected to reduce test turnaround time and cost, making it a balanced approach to investigate solid cancer-related gene regions.
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Xu L, Huang G, Zhu Z, Tian S, Wei Y, Hong H, Lu X, Li Y, Liu F, Zhao H. LFZ-4-46, a tetrahydroisoquinoline derivative, induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via induction of DNA damage and activation of MAPKs pathway in cancer cells. Anticancer Drugs 2021; 32:842-854. [PMID: 33929988 PMCID: PMC8366768 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000001077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
LFZ-4-46, that is [2-hydroxy-1-phenyl-1,5,6,10b-tetrahydropyrazolo(5,1-a) isoquinolin-3(2H)-yl](phenyl) methanone, a tetrahydroisoquinoline derivative with a pyrazolidine moiety, was synthetically prepared. The anti-cancer mechanism of the compound has not been clarified yet. In this study, the anticancer effects and potential mechanisms of LFZ-4-46 on human breast and prostate cancer cells were explored. (a) 3-(4,5-Dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazoliumbromide assay was first performed to detect the effects of LFZ-4-46 on the viability of human cancer cells. (b) Comet assay was utilized to evaluate DNA damage. (c) Cell cycle, apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane potential were detected by flow cytometry. (d) The expression of relative proteins was detected by western blotting assay. LFZ-4-46 significantly inhibited the viability of cancer cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner and had no obviously inhibitory effect on the viability of mammary epithelial MCF-10A cells. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that LFZ-4-46-induced cell apoptosis and cycle arrest were mediated by DNA damage. It caused DNA damage through activating γ-H2AX and breaking DNA strands. Further studies showed that mitogen-activated protein kinasess pathway was involved in these activated several key molecular events. Finally, LFZ-4-46 showed a potent antitumor effect in vivo. These results suggest that LFZ-4-46 may be a potential lead compound for the treatment of breast and prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou
| | - Guozheng Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou
- Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xinjiang
| | - Zhihui Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou
| | - Shasha Tian
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou
| | - Yingying Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou
| | - Huanwu Hong
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou
| | - Xiaowei Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou
| | - Ying Li
- Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xinjiang
| | - Feize Liu
- Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xinjiang
| | - Huajun Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou
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Meijles DN, Cull JJ, Cooper ST, Markou T, Hardyman MA, Fuller SJ, Alharbi HO, Haines ZH, Alcantara-Alonso V, Glennon PE, Sheppard MN, Sugden PH, Clerk A. The anti-cancer drug dabrafenib is not cardiotoxic and inhibits cardiac remodelling and fibrosis in a murine model of hypertension. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:1631-1647. [PMID: 34296750 PMCID: PMC8302807 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Raf kinases signal via extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) to drive cell division. Since activating mutations in BRAF (B-Raf proto-oncogene, serine/threonine kinase) are highly oncogenic, BRAF inhibitors including dabrafenib have been developed for cancer. Inhibitors of ERK1/2 signalling used for cancer are cardiotoxic in some patients, raising the question of whether dabrafenib is cardiotoxic. In the heart, ERK1/2 signalling promotes not only cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and is cardioprotective but also promotes fibrosis. Our hypothesis is that ERK1/2 signalling is not required in a non-stressed heart but is required for cardiac remodelling. Thus, dabrafenib may affect the heart in the context of, for example, hypertension. In experiments with cardiomyocytes, cardiac fibroblasts and perfused rat hearts, dabrafenib inhibited ERK1/2 signalling. We assessed the effects of dabrafenib (3 mg/kg/d) on male C57BL/6J mouse hearts in vivo. Dabrafenib alone had no overt effects on cardiac function/dimensions (assessed by echocardiography) or cardiac architecture. In mice treated with 0.8 mg/kg/d angiotensin II (AngII) to induce hypertension, dabrafenib inhibited ERK1/2 signalling and suppressed cardiac hypertrophy in both acute (up to 7 d) and chronic (28 d) settings, preserving ejection fraction. At the cellular level, dabrafenib inhibited AngII-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, reduced expression of hypertrophic gene markers and almost completely eliminated the increase in cardiac fibrosis both in interstitial and perivascular regions. Dabrafenib is not overtly cardiotoxic. Moreover, it inhibits maladaptive hypertrophy resulting from AngII-induced hypertension. Thus, Raf is a potential therapeutic target for hypertensive heart disease and drugs such as dabrafenib, developed for cancer, may be used for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel N. Meijles
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 2AS, U.K
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, U.K
| | - Joshua J. Cull
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 2AS, U.K
| | - Susanna T.E. Cooper
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, U.K
| | - Thomais Markou
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 2AS, U.K
| | | | - Stephen J. Fuller
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 2AS, U.K
| | - Hajed O. Alharbi
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 2AS, U.K
| | - Zoe H.R. Haines
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, U.K
| | | | - Peter E. Glennon
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, University Hospital Cardiology Department, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, U.K
| | - Mary N. Sheppard
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, U.K
- CRY Cardiovascular Pathology Department, St. George's University of London, London, U.K
- St. George’s Healthcare NHS Trust, London, U.K
| | - Peter H. Sugden
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 2AS, U.K
| | - Angela Clerk
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 2AS, U.K
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Abstract
Colorectal cancers (CRC) with B-RAF mutation carry a particularly poor prognosis. In this context, the value of first-line intensified chemotherapy associated with an anti-VEGF (Vascular endothelial growth factor) to treat metastatic CRC has recently been called into question. In patients with mutated B-RAF, the efficacy of first-line anti-EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) associated with chemotherapy for treatment of metastatic CRC is uncertain while that of anti-VEGF has been shown to be effective. The therapeutic pathways involving inhibition of B-RAF activity, although ineffective as monotherapy, have received marketing authorization when used in association with anti-EGFR for second-line treatment of metastatic CRC. Immunotherapy has provided very encouraging results in a recent phase III study in patients with microsatellite instability, irrespective of their B-RAF status. Finally, new therapies, targeting other RAF proteins and other specific receptors are currently under development. Surgery for liver metastases in patients with the B-RAF mutation should be considered whenever possible, after a complete search for peritoneal carcinomatosis and distant metastases, similarly to workup for patients without the B-RAF mutation.
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Targeting KRAS in Cancer: Promising Therapeutic Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13061204. [PMID: 33801965 PMCID: PMC7999304 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Since the Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) is mutated in about 25% of all human cancers and is at the center of pathways involved in tumorigenesis, it is necessary to compile and highlight the novel therapeutic strategies behind targeting this oncoprotein in cancer. Over the years, many have studied various methods to directly target KRAS with no success. Fortunately, there has been more success in targeting other proteins along the RAS pathway to yield a therapeutic response. However, some recent findings show promising results indicating that we are one step closer to developing an effective inhibitor that directly targets KRAS. The review presented here summarizes these recent findings and emphasizes the need to continue the search for the most optimal KRAS inhibitor that can be used to treat and potentially even cure certain tumor types. Abstract The Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) is mutated in approximately 25% of all human cancers and is known to be a major player promoting and maintaining tumorigenesis through the RAS/MAPK pathway. Over the years, a large number of studies have identified strategies at different regulatory levels to tackle this ‘difficult-to-target’ oncoprotein. Yet, the most ideal strategy to overcome KRAS and its downstream effects has yet to be uncovered. This review summarizes the role of KRAS activating mutations in multiple cancer types as well as the key findings for potential strategies inhibiting its oncogenic behavior. A comprehensive analysis of the different pathways and mechanisms associated with KRAS activity in tumors will ultimately pave the way for promising future work that will identify optimum therapeutic strategies.
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Resistance to Molecularly Targeted Therapies in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051115. [PMID: 33807778 PMCID: PMC7961479 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer with invasive growth patterns. In 2021, 106,110 patients are projected to be diagnosed with melanoma, out of which 7180 are expected to die. Traditional methods like surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are not effective in the treatment of metastatic and advanced melanoma. Recent approaches to treat melanoma have focused on biomarkers that play significant roles in cell growth, proliferation, migration, and survival. Several FDA-approved molecular targeted therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been developed against genetic biomarkers whose overexpression is implicated in tumorigenesis. The use of targeted therapies as an alternative or supplement to immunotherapy has revolutionized the management of metastatic melanoma. Although this treatment strategy is more efficacious and less toxic in comparison to traditional therapies, targeted therapies are less effective after prolonged treatment due to acquired resistance caused by mutations and activation of alternative mechanisms in melanoma tumors. Recent studies focus on understanding the mechanisms of acquired resistance to these current therapies. Further research is needed for the development of better approaches to improve prognosis in melanoma patients. In this article, various melanoma biomarkers including BRAF, MEK, RAS, c-KIT, VEGFR, c-MET and PI3K are described, and their potential mechanisms for drug resistance are discussed.
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21
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Cook FA, Cook SJ. Inhibition of RAF dimers: it takes two to tango. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:237-251. [PMID: 33367512 PMCID: PMC7924995 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The RAS-regulated RAF-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 pathway promotes cell proliferation and survival and RAS and BRAF proteins are commonly mutated in cancer. This has fuelled the development of small molecule kinase inhibitors including ATP-competitive RAF inhibitors. Type I and type I½ ATP-competitive RAF inhibitors are effective in BRAFV600E/K-mutant cancer cells. However, in RAS-mutant cells these compounds instead promote RAS-dependent dimerisation and paradoxical activation of wild-type RAF proteins. RAF dimerisation is mediated by two key regions within each RAF protein; the RKTR motif of the αC-helix and the NtA-region of the dimer partner. Dimer formation requires the adoption of a closed, active kinase conformation which can be induced by RAS-dependent activation of RAF or by the binding of type I and I½ RAF inhibitors. Binding of type I or I½ RAF inhibitors to one dimer partner reduces the binding affinity of the other, thereby leaving a single dimer partner uninhibited and able to activate MEK. To overcome this paradox two classes of drug are currently under development; type II pan-RAF inhibitors that induce RAF dimer formation but bind both dimer partners thus allowing effective inhibition of both wild-type RAF dimer partners and monomeric active class I mutant RAF, and the recently developed "paradox breakers" which interrupt BRAF dimerisation through disruption of the αC-helix. Here we review the regulation of RAF proteins, including RAF dimers, and the progress towards effective targeting of the wild-type RAF proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frazer A. Cook
- Signalling Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, U.K
| | - Simon J. Cook
- Signalling Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, U.K
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22
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Tan JY, Wijesinghe IVS, Alfarizal Kamarudin MN, Parhar I. Paediatric Gliomas: BRAF and Histone H3 as Biomarkers, Therapy and Perspective of Liquid Biopsies. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040607. [PMID: 33557011 PMCID: PMC7913734 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Gliomas are major causes of worldwide cancer-associated deaths in children. Generally, paediatric gliomas can be classified into low-grade and high-grade gliomas. They differ significantly from adult gliomas in terms of prevalence, molecular alterations, molecular mechanisms and predominant histological types. The aims of this review article are: (i) to discuss the current updates of biomarkers in paediatric low-grade and high-grade gliomas including their diagnostic and prognostic values, and (ii) to discuss potential targeted therapies in treating paediatric low-grade and high-grade gliomas. Our findings revealed that liquid biopsy is less invasive than tissue biopsy in obtaining the samples for biomarker detections in children. In addition, future clinical trials should consider blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration of therapeutic drugs in paediatric population. Abstract Paediatric gliomas categorised as low- or high-grade vary markedly from their adult counterparts, and denoted as the second most prevalent childhood cancers after leukaemia. As compared to adult gliomas, the studies of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as the development of therapy in paediatric gliomas, are still in their infancy. A body of evidence demonstrates that B-Raf Proto-Oncogene or V-Raf Murine Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog B (BRAF) and histone H3 mutations are valuable biomarkers for paediatric low-grade gliomas (pLGGs) and high-grade gliomas (pHGGs). Various diagnostic methods involving fluorescence in situ hybridisation, whole-genomic sequencing, PCR, next-generation sequencing and NanoString are currently used for detecting BRAF and histone H3 mutations. Additionally, liquid biopsies are gaining popularity as an alternative to tumour materials in detecting these biomarkers, but still, they cannot fully replace solid biopsies due to several limitations. Although histone H3 mutations are reliable prognosis biomarkers in pHGGs, children with these mutations have a dismal prognosis. Conversely, the role of BRAF alterations as prognostic biomarkers in pLGGs is still in doubt due to contradictory findings. The BRAF V600E mutation is seen in the majority of pLGGs (as seen in pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma and gangliomas). By contrast, the H3K27M mutation is found in the majority of paediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma and other midline gliomas in pHGGs. pLGG patients with a BRAF V600E mutation often have a lower progression-free survival rate in comparison to wild-type pLGGs when treated with conventional therapies. BRAF inhibitors (Dabrafenib and Vemurafenib), however, show higher overall survival and tumour response in BRAF V600E mutated pLGGs than conventional therapies in some studies. To date, targeted therapy and precision medicine are promising avenues for paediatric gliomas with BRAF V600E and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma with the H3K27M mutations. Given these shortcomings in the current treatments of paediatric gliomas, there is a dire need for novel therapies that yield a better therapeutic response. The present review discusses the diagnostic tools and the perspective of liquid biopsies in the detection of BRAF V600E and H3K27M mutations. An in-depth understanding of these biomarkers and the therapeutics associated with the respective challenges will bridge the gap between paediatric glioma patients and the development of effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ishwar Parhar
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +603-5514-6304; Fax: +603-5515-6341
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23
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Koumaki K, Kontogianni G, Kosmidou V, Pahitsa F, Kritsi E, Zervou M, Chatziioannou A, Souliotis VL, Papadodima O, Pintzas A. BRAF paradox breakers PLX8394, PLX7904 are more effective against BRAFV600Ε CRC cells compared with the BRAF inhibitor PLX4720 and shown by detailed pathway analysis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1867:166061. [PMID: 33385518 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.166061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PLX7904 and PLX8394 are novel BRAFV600E inhibitors-BRAFi that are designed to evade the paradoxical MAPK activation, a trait for the name "paradox breakers"-PB. Current FDA approved inhibitors (Vemurafenib, Dabrafenib, Encorafenib) although improved progression-free survival of mtBRAF melanoma patients suffer from this treatment related side effect. mtBRAF Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is resistant to the approved BRAF inhibitors, although combinatorial treatment co-targeting BRAF and EGFR/MEK is offering a promising prospect. In an effort to explore the potential of the novel BRAF inhibitors-PB to impede CRC cell proliferation, they were tested on RKO, HT29 and Colo-205 cells, bearing the BRAFV600E mutation. This study shows that the BRAF paradox breakers PLX7904 and PLX8394 cause a more prolonged MAPK pathway inhibition and achieve a stronger blockage of proliferation and reduced viability than PLX4720, the sister compound of Vemurafenib. In some treatment conditions, cells can undergo apoptosis. Genomic analysis on the more resistant RKO cells treated with PLX7904, PLX8394 and PLX4720 showed similar gene expression pattern, but the alterations imposed by the PB were more intense. Bioinformatic analysis resulted in a short list of genes representing potential master regulators of the cellular response to BRAF inhibitors' treatments. From our results, it is clear that the BRAF paradox breakers present a notable differential regulation of major pathways, like MAPK signalling, apoptosis, cell cycle, or developmental signalling pathways. Combinatorial treatments of BRAFi with Mcl-1 and Notch modulators show a better effect than mono-treatments. Additional pathways could be further exploited in novel efficient combinatorial treatment protocols with BRAFi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassandra Koumaki
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Kontogianni
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Vivian Kosmidou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Fani Pahitsa
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Eftichia Kritsi
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Zervou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Vassilis L Souliotis
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Olga Papadodima
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexander Pintzas
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece.
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24
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Simnica D, Ittrich H, Bockemeyer C, Stein A, Binder M. Targeting the Mutational Landscape of Bystander Cells: Drug-Promoted Blood Cancer From High-Prevalence Pre-neoplasias in Patients on BRAF Inhibitors. Front Oncol 2020; 10:540030. [PMID: 33042833 PMCID: PMC7517330 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.540030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug-promoted cancers are increasingly recognized as a serious clinical problem in patients receiving BRAF inhibitory treatment. Here we report on a patient with BRAF mutant hairy cell leukemia and monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL), who responded durably to BRAF/MEK inhibitors (BRAFi/MEKi) but experienced transformation of a RAS mutant MBL to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with accelerated nodal progression. Hypothesizing that BRAFi triggered excessive MEK-ERK signaling in the MBL/CLL clone via the CRAF/RAS complex as previously described for BRAFi-induced cancers, BRAFi was discontinued inducing a rapid remission of the CLL on MEKi alone. Liquid biopsy monitoring showed a continuous increase of the MBL/CLL clone from the start of BRAFi/MEKi treatment followed by a rapid decline upon BRAFi withdrawal. Next-generation sequencing of a cohort of patients with MBL and monoclonal gammopathy of unclear significance (MGUS) revealed that almost one third of these cases harbored RAS mutations. In view of the population frequency of lymphatic pre-malignant conditions and the prevalence of RAS mutations in such cases, vigilant surveillance remains critical in patients treated with BRAF inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donjete Simnica
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Oncology/Hematology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany.,Department of Oncology and Hematology, BMT with section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum/UCCH, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Harald Ittrich
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carsten Bockemeyer
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, BMT with section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum/UCCH, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Stein
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, BMT with section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum/UCCH, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Hematology-Oncology Practice Hamburg (HOPE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mascha Binder
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Oncology/Hematology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany.,Department of Oncology and Hematology, BMT with section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald Tumorzentrum/UCCH, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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25
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Yuan J, Dong X, Yap J, Hu J. The MAPK and AMPK signalings: interplay and implication in targeted cancer therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:113. [PMID: 32807225 PMCID: PMC7433213 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00949-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is characterized as a complex disease caused by coordinated alterations of multiple signaling pathways. The Ras/RAF/MEK/ERK (MAPK) signaling is one of the best-defined pathways in cancer biology, and its hyperactivation is responsible for over 40% human cancer cases. To drive carcinogenesis, this signaling promotes cellular overgrowth by turning on proliferative genes, and simultaneously enables cells to overcome metabolic stress by inhibiting AMPK signaling, a key singular node of cellular metabolism. Recent studies have shown that AMPK signaling can also reversibly regulate hyperactive MAPK signaling in cancer cells by phosphorylating its key components, RAF/KSR family kinases, which affects not only carcinogenesis but also the outcomes of targeted cancer therapies against the MAPK signaling. In this review, we will summarize the current proceedings of how MAPK-AMPK signalings interplay with each other in cancer biology, as well as its implications in clinic cancer treatment with MAPK inhibition and AMPK modulators, and discuss the exploitation of combinatory therapies targeting both MAPK and AMPK as a novel therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimin Yuan
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, China.
- Geriatric Department, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xiaoduo Dong
- Shenzhen People's Hospital, 1017 Dongmen North Road, Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Jiajun Yap
- Cancer and Stem Cell Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Jiancheng Hu
- Cancer and Stem Cell Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore.
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26
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A CRAF/glutathione-S-transferase P1 complex sustains autocrine growth of cancers with KRAS and BRAF mutations. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:19435-19445. [PMID: 32719131 PMCID: PMC7430992 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2000361117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A strategy to overcome therapeutic obstacles of mKRAS and mBRAF cancers is devised based on the finding, here, that the RAF/MEK/ERK cascade is by-passed by an autocrine signal loop established by interaction of CRAF with GSTP1. The interaction evokes stabilization of CRAF from proteosomal degradation and facilitation of RAF-dimer formation. Thus, blocking CRAF/GSTP1 interactions should generate additive antiproliferative effects. The Ras/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway is an essential signaling cascade for various refractory cancers, such as those with mutant KRAS (mKRAS) and BRAF (mBRAF). However, there are unsolved ambiguities underlying mechanisms for this growth signaling thereby creating therapeutic complications. This study shows that a vital component of the pathway CRAF is directly impacted by an end product of the cascade, glutathione transferases (GST) P1 (GSTP1), driving a previously unrecognized autocrine cycle that sustains proliferation of mKRAS and mBRAF cancer cells, independent of oncogenic stimuli. The CRAF interaction with GSTP1 occurs at its N-terminal regulatory domain, CR1 motif, resulting in its stabilization, enhanced dimerization, and augmented catalytic activity. Consistent with the autocrine cycle scheme, silencing GSTP1 brought about significant suppression of proliferation of mKRAS and mBRAF cells in vitro and suppressed tumorigenesis of the xenografted mKRAS tumor in vivo. GSTP1 knockout mice showed significantly impaired carcinogenesis of mKRAS colon cancer. Consequently, hindering the autocrine loop by targeting CRAF/GSTP1 interactions should provide innovative therapeutic modalities for these cancers.
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27
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Frisone D, Friedlaender A, Malapelle U, Banna G, Addeo A. A BRAF new world. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 152:103008. [PMID: 32485528 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BRAF is a rare targetable mutation in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Emerging evidence underlines that, rather than a single point mutation, BRAF genes present with a wide array of mutations, essentially in lung adenocarcinoma. Different BRAF mutations have divergent clinical and therapeutic implications, with a particular distinction between V600E and non-V600E mutations. The latter are at least as frequent in NSCLC as V600E, but lack any proven targeted therapy. In this paper, we briefly review the current literature and provide an update of scientific knowledge about different types of BRAF mutations in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Frisone
- IOSI - Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Switzerland
| | | | - Umberto Malapelle
- Department of Public Health, University Federico II of Naples (Naples), Italy
| | - Giuseppe Banna
- Department of Oncology, United Lincolnshire Hospital Trust, UK
| | - Alfredo Addeo
- Department of Oncology, Geneva University Hospital, Switzerland.
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28
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Nunes L, Aasebø K, Mathot L, Ljungström V, Edqvist PH, Sundström M, Dragomir A, Pfeiffer P, Ameur A, Ponten F, Mezheyeuski A, Sorbye H, Sjöblom T, Glimelius B. Molecular characterization of a large unselected cohort of metastatic colorectal cancers in relation to primary tumor location, rare metastatic sites and prognosis. Acta Oncol 2020; 59:417-426. [PMID: 31924107 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2019.1711169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: We have reported that BRAF V600E mutations and microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) are more prevalent in a population-based cohort of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients than has been reported from clinical trials or hospital-based patient groups. The aim was to explore if other mutations in mCRC differ in prevalence between these cohorts in relation to mismatch repair status and primary tumor location and if presence of bone or brain metastases is associated with any mutations.Material and methods: A population-based cohort of 798 mCRC patients from three regions in Scandinavia was used. Forty-four cancer related genes were investigated in a custom designed Ampliseq hotspot panel. Differences in survival were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier estimator and the Cox regression analysis.Results: Determination of mutations was possible in 449/501 patients for 40/44 genes. Besides BRAF V600E, seen in 19% of the tumors, none of the other mutations appeared more prevalent than in trial cohorts. BRAF V600E and MSI-H, seen in 8%, were associated with poor prognosis as was right-sided primary tumor location (39%) when compared to left-sided and rectum together; however, in a multivariable regression, only the BRAF mutation retained its statistical significance. No other mutations were associated with poor prognosis. ERBB2 alterations were more common if bone metastases were present at diagnosis (17% vs. 4%, p = .011). No association was found for brain metastases. Fifty-two percent had an alteration that is treatable with an FDA-approved targeted therapy, chiefly by EGFR-inhibitor for RAS wild-type and a check-point inhibitor for MSI-H tumors.Conclusions: Right-sided tumor location, BRAF V600E mutations, but no other investigated mutation, and MSI-H are more commonly seen in an unselected cohort than is reported from clinical patient cohorts, likely because they indicate poor prognosis. Half of the patients have a tumor that is treatable with an already FDA-approved targeted drug for mCRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Nunes
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kristine Aasebø
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Viktor Ljungström
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per-Henrik Edqvist
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Magnus Sundström
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anca Dragomir
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Pathology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per Pfeiffer
- Department of Oncology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Adam Ameur
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Ponten
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Artur Mezheyeuski
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Halfdan Sorbye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Oncology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Tobias Sjöblom
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Bengt Glimelius
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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29
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Ryall S, Tabori U, Hawkins C. Pediatric low-grade glioma in the era of molecular diagnostics. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2020; 8:30. [PMID: 32164789 PMCID: PMC7066826 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-020-00902-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Low grade gliomas are the most frequent brain tumors in children and encompass a spectrum of histologic entities which are currently assigned World Health Organisation grades I and II. They differ substantially from their adult counterparts in both their underlying genetic alterations and in the infrequency with which they transform to higher grade tumors. Nonetheless, children with low grade glioma are a therapeutic challenge due to the heterogeneity in their clinical behavior – in particular, those with incomplete surgical resection often suffer repeat progressions with resultant morbidity and, in some cases, mortality. The identification of up-regulation of the RAS–mitogen-activated protein kinase (RAS/MAPK) pathway as a near universal feature of these tumors has led to the development of targeted therapeutics aimed at improving responses while mitigating patient morbidity. Here, we review how molecular information can help to further define the entities which fall under the umbrella of pediatric-type low-grade glioma. In doing so we discuss the specific molecular drivers of pediatric low grade glioma and how to effectively test for them, review the newest therapeutic agents and their utility in treating this disease, and propose a risk-based stratification system that considers both clinical and molecular parameters to aid clinicians in making treatment decisions.
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30
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Degirmenci U, Wang M, Hu J. Targeting Aberrant RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK Signaling for Cancer Therapy. Cells 2020; 9:E198. [PMID: 31941155 PMCID: PMC7017232 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 291] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK (MAPK) signaling cascade is essential for cell inter- and intra-cellular communication, which regulates fundamental cell functions such as growth, survival, and differentiation. The MAPK pathway also integrates signals from complex intracellular networks in performing cellular functions. Despite the initial discovery of the core elements of the MAPK pathways nearly four decades ago, additional findings continue to make a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of this pathway challenging. Considerable effort has been focused on the regulation of RAF, especially after the discovery of drug resistance and paradoxical activation upon inhibitor binding to the kinase. RAF activity is regulated by phosphorylation and conformation-dependent regulation, including auto-inhibition and dimerization. In this review, we summarize the recent major findings in the study of the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling cascade, particularly with respect to the impact on clinical cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ufuk Degirmenci
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore 169610, Singapore
| | - Mei Wang
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Jiancheng Hu
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore 169610, Singapore
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
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31
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High Proportion of Potential Candidates for Immunotherapy in a Chilean Cohort of Gastric Cancer Patients: Results of the FORCE1 Study. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11091275. [PMID: 31480291 PMCID: PMC6770659 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a heterogeneous disease. This heterogeneity applies not only to morphological and phenotypic features but also to geographical variations in incidence and mortality rates. As Chile has one of the highest mortality rates within South America, we sought to define a molecular profile of Chilean GCs (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03158571/(FORCE1)). Solid tumor samples and clinical data were obtained from 224 patients, with subsets analyzed by tissue microarray (TMA; n = 90) and next generation sequencing (NGS; n = 101). Most demographic and clinical data were in line with previous reports. TMA data indicated that 60% of patients displayed potentially actionable alterations. Furthermore, 20.5% were categorized as having a high tumor mutational burden, and 13% possessed micro-satellite instability (MSI). Results also confirmed previous studies reporting high Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) positivity (13%) in Chilean-derived GC samples suggesting a high proportion of patients could benefit from immunotherapy. As expected, TP53 and PIK3CA were the most frequently altered genes. However, NGS demonstrated the presence of TP53, NRAS, and BRAF variants previously unreported in current GC databases. Finally, using the Kendall method, we report a significant correlation between EBV+ status and programmed death ligand-1 (PDL1)+ and an inverse correlation between p53 mutational status and MSI. Our results suggest that in this Chilean cohort, a high proportion of patients are potential candidates for immunotherapy treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first in South America to assess the prevalence of actionable targets and to examine a molecular profile of GC patients.
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32
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Rafoxanide, an organohalogen drug, triggers apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in multiple myeloma by enhancing DNA damage responses and suppressing the p38 MAPK pathway. Cancer Lett 2018; 444:45-59. [PMID: 30583070 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Rafoxanide is used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of fascioliasis. We previously repositioned the drug as the inhibitor of B-Raf V600E, but its anti-tumor effect in human cancer has never been reported. In this study, we investigated the effects of rafoxanide in multiple myeloma (MM) in vitro and in vivo. We found that rafoxanide inhibited cell proliferation and overcame the protective effect of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment on MM cells. Rafoxanide induced cell apoptosis by reducing mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and regulating the caspase pathway, while having no apparent toxic effect on normal cells. Rafoxanide also inhibited DNA synthesis and caused cell cycle arrest by regulating the cdc25A-degradation pathway. In addition, rafoxanide enhanced the DNA damage response by up-regulating the expression of γ-H2AX, and suppressed activation of the p38 MAPK pathway by down-regulating p38 MAPK phosphorylation and Stat1 phosphorylation. Rafoxanide treatment inhibited tumor growth, with no significant side effects, in an MM mouse xenograft model. Combination of rafoxanide with bortezomib or lenalidomide significantly induced synergistic cytotoxicity in MM cells. Finally, rafoxanide had anti-proliferation effect on both wild type and B-Raf V600E mutated MM cells. And the weaker anti-MM activity of rafoxanide than vemurafenib may indicate other potential mechanisms besides targeting B-Raf V600E mutation. Collectively, our results provide a rationale for use of this drug in MM treatment.
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33
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Pan JH, Zhou H, Zhu SB, Huang JL, Zhao XX, Ding H, Pan YL. Development of small-molecule therapeutics and strategies for targeting RAF kinase in BRAF-mutant colorectal cancer. Cancer Manag Res 2018; 10:2289-2301. [PMID: 30122982 PMCID: PMC6078078 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s170105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
RAF kinase is crucially involved in cell proliferation and survival in colorectal cancer (CRC). Patients with metastatic CRC (mCRC) harboring BRAF mutations (BRAFms) not only experience a poor prognosis but also benefit less from therapeutics targeting ERK signaling. With advances in RAF inhibitors and second-generation inhibitors including encorafenib and vemurafenib, which have been approved for treating BRAF-V600E malignancies, the combinatorial therapeutic strategies of RAF inhibitors elicit remarkable responses in patients with BRAF-V600E mCRC. However, the therapeutic efficacy is restricted by resistance, which might be due to RAF dimerization and reactivation of the MAPK pathway. In addition, the next-generation RAF inhibitors, which are characterized by varying structural and biochemical properties, have achieved preclinical and clinical advances. Herein, we summarize the existing mechanism of RAF kinases in CRC, including MAPK feedback reactivation of resistance to RAF inhibitors. We additionally summarize the development of three generations of RAF inhibitors and different therapeutic strategies including the combination of EGFR, BRAF, and PI3K inhibitors for BRAFm CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Hua Pan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China,
| | - Hong Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Sheng-Bin Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China,
| | - Jin-Lian Huang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China,
| | - Xiao-Xu Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China,
| | - Hui Ding
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China,
| | - Yun-Long Pan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China,
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34
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Grasso M, Estrada MA, Berrios KN, Winkler JD, Marmorstein R. N-(7-Cyano-6-(4-fluoro-3-(2-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)acetamido)phenoxy)benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)cyclopropanecarboxamide (TAK632) Promotes Inhibition of BRAF through the Induction of Inhibited Dimers. J Med Chem 2018; 61:5034-5046. [PMID: 29727562 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b00499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BRAFV600E is the most common activating mutation in melanoma and patients treated with BRAFV600E inhibitors all develop resistance within one year. A significant resistance pathway is paradoxical activation (transactivation) involving BRAF dimers, whereby an inhibitor bound protein subunit allosterically activates the other subunit. We recently reported on dimeric BRAFV600E -selective vemurafenib inhibitors that stabilize an inactive αC-out/αC-out homodimeric conformation with improved inhibitor potency and selectivity in vitro. We set out to extend this strategy to target RAF homo- and heterodimers with the pan-RAF inhibitor TAK632 in dimeric configuration. Surprisingly, we find that monomeric TAK632 induces an active αC-in/αC-in BRAF dimer conformation, while dimeric TAK inhibitors cannot promote BRAF dimers and have significantly compromised potency in vitro. These studies uncover the intimate connection between BRAF dimerization and TAK632 mode of inhibition and highlight the importance of understanding the impact of BRAF inhibitors on kinase dimerization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Grasso
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics and the Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine , University of Pennsylvania , 421 Curie Boulevard , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19104 , United States.,Department of Chemistry , University of Pennsylvania , 231 South 34th Street , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19104 , United States
| | - Michelle A Estrada
- Department of Chemistry , University of Pennsylvania , 231 South 34th Street , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19104 , United States
| | - Kiara N Berrios
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics and the Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine , University of Pennsylvania , 421 Curie Boulevard , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19104 , United States
| | - Jeffrey D Winkler
- Department of Chemistry , University of Pennsylvania , 231 South 34th Street , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19104 , United States
| | - Ronen Marmorstein
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics and the Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine , University of Pennsylvania , 421 Curie Boulevard , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19104 , United States.,Department of Chemistry , University of Pennsylvania , 231 South 34th Street , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19104 , United States
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35
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Lai E, Pretta A, Impera V, Mariani S, Giampieri R, Casula L, Pusceddu V, Coni P, Fanni D, Puzzoni M, Demurtas L, Ziranu P, Faa G, Scartozzi M. BRAF-mutant colorectal cancer, a different breed evolving. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2018; 18:499-512. [DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2018.1470928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Lai
- Medical Oncology, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Pretta
- Medical Oncology, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valentino Impera
- Medical Oncology, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Mariani
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Riccardo Giampieri
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Laura Casula
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valeria Pusceddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Coni
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Division of Pathology, University of Cagliari, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniela Fanni
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Division of Pathology, University of Cagliari, Ancona, Italy
| | - Marco Puzzoni
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Demurtas
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Pina Ziranu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gavino Faa
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Division of Pathology, University of Cagliari, Ancona, Italy
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Porru M, Pompili L, Caruso C, Biroccio A, Leonetti C. Targeting KRAS in metastatic colorectal cancer: current strategies and emerging opportunities. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2018. [PMID: 29534749 PMCID: PMC5850913 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-018-0719-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Developing drugs that target KRAS, the most frequently mutated oncogene in cancer, has not been successful despite much concerted efforts dedicated towards it in the last thirty years. Considering the key role this driver oncogene plays, the pharmacological drugging of KRAS remains a key challenge for cancer research. In this review, we highlight the emerging experimental strategies for blocking KRAS function and signaling and its direct targeting. We also report on the results in this field of research produced by our group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Porru
- UOSD SAFU, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Pompili
- UOSD SAFU, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.,University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | | | - Annamaria Biroccio
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.
| | - Carlo Leonetti
- UOSD SAFU, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
Purpose of review Recent findings Summary
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Montor WR, Salas AROSE, Melo FHMD. Receptor tyrosine kinases and downstream pathways as druggable targets for cancer treatment: the current arsenal of inhibitors. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:55. [PMID: 29455659 PMCID: PMC5817866 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0792-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Searching for targets that allow pharmacological inhibition of cell proliferation in over-proliferative states, such as cancer, leads us to finely understand the complex mechanisms orchestrating the perfect control of mitosis number, frequency and pace as well as the molecular arrangements that induce cells to enter functional quiescence and brings them back to cycling in specific conditions. Although the mechanisms regulating cell proliferation have been described several years ago, never before has so much light been shed over this machinery as during the last decade when therapy targets have been explored and molecules, either synthetic or in the form of antibodies with the potential of becoming cancer drugs were produced and adjusted for specific binding and function. Proteins containing tyrosine kinase domains, either membrane receptors or cytoplasmic molecules, plus the ones activated by those in downstream pathways, having tyrosine kinase domains or not, such as RAS which is a GTPase and serine/threonine kinases such as RAF, play crucial role in conducting proliferation information from cell surroundings to the nucleus where gene expression takes place. Tyrosine kinases phosphorylate tyrosine residues in an activating mode and are found in important growth factor receptors, such as for ligands from families collectively known as VEGF, PDGF and EGF, to name a few and in intracellular downstream molecules. They all play important roles in normal physiology and are commonly found mutated or overexpressed in neoplastic states. Our objective here is to present such kinases as druggable targets for cancer therapy, highlighting the ones for which the pharmacological arsenal is available, discussing specificity, resistance mechanisms and treatment alternatives in cases of resistance, plus listing potential targets that have not been successfully worked yet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wagner Ricardo Montor
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Matos P, Jordan P. Targeting Colon Cancers with Mutated BRAF and Microsatellite Instability. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1110:7-21. [PMID: 30623363 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-02771-1_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The subgroup of colon cancer (CRC) characterized by mutation in the BRAF gene and high mutation rate in the genomic DNA sequence, known as the microsatellite instability (MSI) phenotype, accounts for roughly 10% of the patients and derives from polyps with a serrated morphology. In this review, both features are discussed with regard to therapeutic opportunities. The most prevalent cancer-associated BRAF mutation is BRAF V600E that causes constitutive activation of the pro-proliferative MAPK pathway. Unfortunately, the available BRAF-specific inhibitors had little clinical benefit for metastatic CRC patients due to adaptive MAPK reactivation. Recent contributions for the development of new combination therapy approaches to pathway inhibition will be highlighted. In addition, we review the promising role of the recently developed immune checkpoint therapy for the treatment of this CRC subtype. The MSI phenotype of this subgroup results from an inactivated DNA mismatch repair system and leads to frameshift mutations with translation of new amino acid stretches and the generation of neo-antigens. This most likely explains the observed high degree of infiltration by tumour-associated lymphocytes. As cytotoxic lymphocytes are already part of the tumour environment, their activation by immune checkpoint therapy approaches is highly promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Matos
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.,BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Human Genetics, National Health Institute 'Dr. Ricardo Jorge', Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Peter Jordan
- BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal. .,Department of Human Genetics, National Health Institute 'Dr. Ricardo Jorge', Lisbon, Portugal.
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Shaterian A, Bota D, Leis A. Expression of the BRAF L597Q mutation in sporadic neurofibromas of the upper extremity. Exp Mol Pathol 2017; 103:276-278. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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