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Das C, Bhattacharya A, Adhikari S, Mondal A, Mondal P, Adhikary S, Roy S, Ramos K, Yadav KK, Tainer JA, Pandita TK. A prismatic view of the epigenetic-metabolic regulatory axis in breast cancer therapy resistance. Oncogene 2024; 43:1727-1741. [PMID: 38719949 PMCID: PMC11161412 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03054-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation established during development to maintain patterns of transcriptional expression and silencing for metabolism and other fundamental cell processes can be reprogrammed in cancer, providing a molecular mechanism for persistent alterations in phenotype. Metabolic deregulation and reprogramming are thus an emerging hallmark of cancer with opportunities for molecular classification as a critical preliminary step for precision therapeutic intervention. Yet, acquisition of therapy resistance against most conventional treatment regimens coupled with tumor relapse, continue to pose unsolved problems for precision healthcare, as exemplified in breast cancer where existing data informs both cancer genotype and phenotype. Furthermore, epigenetic reprograming of the metabolic milieu of cancer cells is among the most crucial determinants of therapeutic resistance and cancer relapse. Importantly, subtype-specific epigenetic-metabolic interplay profoundly affects malignant transformation, resistance to chemotherapy, and response to targeted therapies. In this review, we therefore prismatically dissect interconnected epigenetic and metabolic regulatory pathways and then integrate them into an observable cancer metabolism-therapy-resistance axis that may inform clinical intervention. Optimally coupling genome-wide analysis with an understanding of metabolic elements, epigenetic reprogramming, and their integration by metabolic profiling may decode missing molecular mechanisms at the level of individual tumors. The proposed approach of linking metabolic biochemistry back to genotype, epigenetics, and phenotype for specific tumors and their microenvironment may thus enable successful mechanistic targeting of epigenetic modifiers and oncometabolites despite tumor metabolic heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandrima Das
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India.
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400094, India.
| | - Apoorva Bhattacharya
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
| | - Swagata Adhikari
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Atanu Mondal
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Payel Mondal
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Santanu Adhikary
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Siddhartha Roy
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Kenneth Ramos
- Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, Texas A&M University, School of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kamlesh K Yadav
- Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, Texas A&M University, School of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, School of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - John A Tainer
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Tej K Pandita
- Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, Texas A&M University, School of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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2
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Singh V, Nandi S, Ghosh A, Adhikary S, Mukherjee S, Roy S, Das C. Epigenetic reprogramming of T cells: unlocking new avenues for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:175-195. [PMID: 38233727 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10167-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
T cells, a key component of cancer immunotherapy, undergo a variety of histone modifications and DNA methylation changes since their bone marrow progenitor stages before developing into CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. These T cell types can be categorized into distinct subtypes based on their functionality and properties, such as cytotoxic T cells (Tc), helper T cells (Th), and regulatory T cells (Treg) as subtypes for CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Among these, the CD4+ CD25+ Tregs potentially contribute to cancer development and progression by lowering T effector (Teff) cell activity under the influence of the tumor microenvironment (TME). This contributes to the development of therapeutic resistance in patients with cancer. Subsequently, these individuals become resistant to monoclonal antibody therapy as well as clinically established immunotherapies. In this review, we delineate the different epigenetic mechanisms in cancer immune response and its involvement in therapeutic resistance. Furthermore, the possibility of epi-immunotherapeutic methods based on histone deacetylase inhibitors and histone methyltransferase inhibitors are under investigation. In this review we highlight EZH2 as the principal driver of cancer cell immunoediting and an immune escape regulator. We have addressed in detail how understanding T cell epigenetic regulation might bring unique inventive strategies to overcome drug resistance and increase the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipin Singh
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Sandhik Nandi
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Aritra Ghosh
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, India
| | - Santanu Adhikary
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Structural Biology & Bio-Informatics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4 Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Shravanti Mukherjee
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
| | - Siddhartha Roy
- Structural Biology & Bio-Informatics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4 Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Chandrima Das
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India.
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400094, India.
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3
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Xiong D, Zhang L, Sun ZJ. Targeting the epigenome to reinvigorate T cells for cancer immunotherapy. Mil Med Res 2023; 10:59. [PMID: 38044445 PMCID: PMC10694991 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-023-00496-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy using immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized the field of cancer treatment; however, ICI efficacy is constrained by progressive dysfunction of CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which is termed T cell exhaustion. This process is driven by diverse extrinsic factors across heterogeneous tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Simultaneously, tumorigenesis entails robust reshaping of the epigenetic landscape, potentially instigating T cell exhaustion. In this review, we summarize the epigenetic mechanisms governing tumor microenvironmental cues leading to T cell exhaustion, and discuss therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic regulators for immunotherapies. Finally, we outline conceptual and technical advances in developing potential treatment paradigms involving immunostimulatory agents and epigenetic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dian Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, School and and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
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4
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Goyal A, Bauer J, Hey J, Papageorgiou DN, Stepanova E, Daskalakis M, Scheid J, Dubbelaar M, Klimovich B, Schwarz D, Märklin M, Roerden M, Lin YY, Ma T, Mücke O, Rammensee HG, Lübbert M, Loayza-Puch F, Krijgsveld J, Walz JS, Plass C. DNMT and HDAC inhibition induces immunogenic neoantigens from human endogenous retroviral element-derived transcripts. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6731. [PMID: 37872136 PMCID: PMC10593957 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42417-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies targeting cancer-specific neoantigens have revolutionized the treatment of cancer patients. Recent evidence suggests that epigenetic therapies synergize with immunotherapies, mediated by the de-repression of endogenous retroviral element (ERV)-encoded promoters, and the initiation of transcription. Here, we use deep RNA sequencing from cancer cell lines treated with DNA methyltransferase inhibitor (DNMTi) and/or Histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), to assemble a de novo transcriptome and identify several thousand ERV-derived, treatment-induced novel polyadenylated transcripts (TINPATs). Using immunopeptidomics, we demonstrate the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) presentation of 45 spectra-validated treatment-induced neopeptides (t-neopeptides) arising from TINPATs. We illustrate the potential of the identified t-neopeptides to elicit a T-cell response to effectively target cancer cells. We further verify the presence of t-neopeptides in AML patient samples after in vivo treatment with the DNMT inhibitor Decitabine. Our findings highlight the potential of ERV-derived neoantigens in epigenetic and immune therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Goyal
- Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jens Bauer
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University of Tübingen and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Joschka Hey
- Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- German-Israeli Helmholtz Research School in Cancer Biology, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center for Lung Research, (DZL) partner site Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dimitris N Papageorgiou
- Division of Proteomics of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg University, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ekaterina Stepanova
- Translational Control and Metabolism, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Daskalakis
- Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Hematology and Central Hematology Laboratory, Inselspital, Bern, University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Scheid
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University of Tübingen and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Quantitative Biology Center (QBiC), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marissa Dubbelaar
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University of Tübingen and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Quantitative Biology Center (QBiC), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Boris Klimovich
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Dominic Schwarz
- Division of Proteomics of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Melanie Märklin
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Malte Roerden
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University of Tübingen and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Yu-Yu Lin
- Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tobias Ma
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Mücke
- Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans-Georg Rammensee
- Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Lübbert
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Fabricio Loayza-Puch
- Translational Control and Metabolism, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jeroen Krijgsveld
- Division of Proteomics of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg University, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Juliane S Walz
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University of Tübingen and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Christoph Plass
- Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- German Center for Lung Research, (DZL) partner site Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.
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5
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Xiao C, Fan T, Zheng Y, Tian H, Deng Z, Liu J, Li C, He J. H3K4 trimethylation regulates cancer immunity: a promising therapeutic target in combination with immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e005693. [PMID: 37553181 PMCID: PMC10414074 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
With the advances in cancer immunity regulation and immunotherapy, the effects of histone modifications on establishing antitumor immunological ability are constantly being uncovered. Developing combination therapies involving epigenetic drugs (epi-drugs) and immune checkpoint blockades or chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapies are promising to improve the benefits of immunotherapy. Histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) is a pivotal epigenetic modification in cancer immunity regulation, deeply involved in modulating tumor immunogenicity, reshaping tumor immune microenvironment, and regulating immune cell functions. However, how to integrate these theoretical foundations to create novel H3K4 trimethylation-based therapeutic strategies and optimize available therapies remains uncertain. In this review, we delineate the mechanisms by which H3K4me3 and its modifiers regulate antitumor immunity, and explore the therapeutic potential of the H3K4me3-related agents combined with immunotherapies. Understanding the role of H3K4me3 in cancer immunity will be instrumental in developing novel epigenetic therapies and advancing immunotherapy-based combination regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yujia Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - He Tian
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ziqin Deng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chunxiang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jie He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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6
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Farani MR, Sarlak M, Gholami A, Azaraian M, Binabaj MM, Kakavandi S, Tambuwala MM, Taheriazam A, Hashemi M, Ghasemi S. Epigenetic drugs as new emerging therapeutics: What is the scale's orientation of application and challenges? Pathol Res Pract 2023; 248:154688. [PMID: 37494800 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene expression or function without altering the DNA sequence. Important factors are part of epigenetic events, such as methylation, DNA histone rearrangements, nucleosome transposition, and non-coding RNAs. Dysregulated epigenetic mechanics are associated with various cancers' initiation, development, and metastasis. It is known that the occurrence and development of cancer can be controlled by regulating unexpected epigenetic events. Epi-drugs are used singly or in combination with chemotherapy and enhance antitumor activity, reduce drug resistance, and stimulate the host immune response. Despite these benefits, epigenetic therapy as a single therapy or in combination with other drugs leads to adverse effects. This review article introduces and compares the advantages, disadvantages, and side effects of using these drugs for the first time since their introduction. Also, this article describes the mechanism of action of various epigenetic drugs. Recommendations for future use of epigenetic drugs as cancer therapeutics are suggested as an overall conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Ramezani Farani
- Toxicology and Diseases Group (TDG), Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), the Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 1417614411 Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sarlak
- Department of Chemistry, Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Amir Gholami
- Student Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Maryam Azaraian
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin 10117, Germany; Department of Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maryam Moradi Binabaj
- Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, School of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Science, Sabzevar, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Sareh Kakavandi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Murtaza M Tambuwala
- Lincoln Medical School, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, 0United Kingdom
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sorayya Ghasemi
- Cancer Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
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7
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Kallingal A, Olszewski M, Maciejewska N, Brankiewicz W, Baginski M. Cancer immune escape: the role of antigen presentation machinery. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:8131-8141. [PMID: 37031434 PMCID: PMC10374767 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04737-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms of antigen processing and presentation play a crucial role in the recognition and targeting of cancer cells by the immune system. Cancer cells can evade the immune system by downregulating or losing the expression of the proteins recognized by the immune cells as antigens, creating an immunosuppressive microenvironment, and altering their ability to process and present antigens. This review focuses on the mechanisms of cancer immune evasion with a specific emphasis on the role of antigen presentation machinery. The study of the immunopeptidome, or peptidomics, has provided insights into the mechanisms of cancer immune evasion and has potential applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, manipulating the epigenetic landscape of cancer cells plays a critical role in suppressing the immune response against cancer. Targeting these mechanisms through the use of HDACis, DNMTis, and combination therapies has the potential to improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action and optimal use of these therapies in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anoop Kallingal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233, Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Mateusz Olszewski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Natalia Maciejewska
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Wioletta Brankiewicz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233, Gdansk, Poland
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maciej Baginski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233, Gdansk, Poland
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8
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Guo R, Li J, Hu J, Fu Q, Yan Y, Xu S, Wang X, Jiao F. Combination of epidrugs with immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer immunotherapy: From theory to therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 120:110417. [PMID: 37276826 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized treatment strategies in multiple types of cancer. However, the resistance and relapse as associated with the extreme complexity of cancer-immunity interactions remain a major challenge to be resolved. Owing to the epigenome plasticity of cancer and immune cells, a growing body of evidence has been presented indicating that epigenetic treatments have the potential to overcome current limitations of immunotherapy, thus providing a rationalefor the combination of ICIs with epigenetic agents (epidrugs). In this review, we first make an overview about the epigenetic regulations in tumor biology and immunodevelopment. Subsequently, a diverse array of inhibitory agents under investigations targeted epigenetic modulators (Azacitidine, Decitabine, Vorinostat, Romidepsin, Belinostat, Panobinostat, Tazemetostat, Enasidenib and Ivosidenib, etc.) and immune checkpoints (Atezolizmab, Avelumab, Cemiplimab, Durvalumb, Ipilimumab, Nivolumab and Pembrolizmab, etc.) to increase anticancer responses were described and the potential mechanisms were further discussed. Finally, we summarize the findings of clinical trials and provide a perspective for future clinical studies directed at investigating the combination of epidrugs with ICIs as a treatment for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Jixia Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Jinxia Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Qiang Fu
- School of Pharmacology, Institute of Aging Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Yunfei Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Sen Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory & Health Service Training, 970 Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Yantai 264002, PR China.
| | - Fei Jiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China.
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9
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Gorini F, Miceli M, de Antonellis P, Amente S, Zollo M, Ferrucci V. Epigenetics and immune cells in medulloblastoma. Front Genet 2023; 14:1135404. [PMID: 36968588 PMCID: PMC10036437 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1135404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a highly malignant childhood tumor of the cerebellum. Transcriptional and epigenetic signatures have classified MB into four molecular subgroups, further stratified into biologically different subtypes with distinct somatic copy-number aberrations, driver genes, epigenetic alterations, activated pathways, and clinical outcomes. The brain tumor microenvironment (BTME) is of importance to regulate a complex network of cells, including immune cells, involved in cancer progression in brain malignancies. MB was considered with a “cold” immunophenotype due to the low influx of immune cells across the blood brain barrier (BBB). Recently, this assumption has been reconsidered because of the identification of infiltrating immune cells showing immunosuppressive phenotypes in the BTME of MB tumors. Here, we are providing a comprehensive overview of the current status of epigenetics alterations occurring during cancer progression with a description of the genomic landscape of MB by focusing on immune cells within the BTME. We further describe how new immunotherapeutic approaches could influence concurring epigenetic mechanisms of the immunosuppressive cells in BTME. In conclusion, the modulation of these molecular genetic complexes in BTME during cancer progression might enhance the therapeutic benefit, thus firing new weapons to fight MB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gorini
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Miceli
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasqualino de Antonellis
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Amente
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Zollo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- DAI Medicina di Laboratorio e Trasfusionale, ‘AOU Federico II Policlinico, Naples, Italy
| | - Veronica Ferrucci
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Veronica Ferrucci,
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10
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Epigenetics: Promising journey so far but ways to go in head neck cancer. Oral Oncol 2022; 135:106194. [DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2022.106194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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11
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Zhou X, Ni Y, Liang X, Lin Y, An B, He X, Zhao X. Mechanisms of tumor resistance to immune checkpoint blockade and combination strategies to overcome resistance. Front Immunol 2022; 13:915094. [PMID: 36189283 PMCID: PMC9520263 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.915094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has rapidly transformed the treatment paradigm for various cancer types. Multiple single or combinations of ICB treatments have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, providing more options for patients with advanced cancer. However, most patients could not benefit from these immunotherapies due to primary and acquired drug resistance. Thus, a better understanding of the mechanisms of ICB resistance is urgently needed to improve clinical outcomes. Here, we focused on the changes in the biological functions of CD8+ T cells to elucidate the underlying resistance mechanisms of ICB therapies and summarized the advanced coping strategies to increase ICB efficacy. Combinational ICB approaches and individualized immunotherapies require further in-depth investigation to facilitate longer-lasting efficacy and a more excellent safety of ICB in a broader range of patients.
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12
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Sarvari P, Sarvari P, Ramírez-Díaz I, Mahjoubi F, Rubio K. Advances of Epigenetic Biomarkers and Epigenome Editing for Early Diagnosis in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179521. [PMID: 36076918 PMCID: PMC9455804 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications are known to regulate cell phenotype during cancer progression, including breast cancer. Unlike genetic alterations, changes in the epigenome are reversible, thus potentially reversed by epi-drugs. Breast cancer, the most common cause of cancer death worldwide in women, encompasses multiple histopathological and molecular subtypes. Several lines of evidence demonstrated distortion of the epigenetic landscape in breast cancer. Interestingly, mammary cells isolated from breast cancer patients and cultured ex vivo maintained the tumorigenic phenotype and exhibited aberrant epigenetic modifications. Recent studies indicated that the therapeutic efficiency for breast cancer regimens has increased over time, resulting in reduced mortality. Future medical treatment for breast cancer patients, however, will likely depend upon a better understanding of epigenetic modifications. The present review aims to outline different epigenetic mechanisms including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and ncRNAs with their impact on breast cancer, as well as to discuss studies highlighting the central role of epigenetic mechanisms in breast cancer pathogenesis. We propose new research areas that may facilitate locus-specific epigenome editing as breast cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pourya Sarvari
- Department of Clinical Genetics, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran P.O. Box 14965/161, Iran
| | - Pouya Sarvari
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico
| | - Ivonne Ramírez-Díaz
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico
- Facultad de Biotecnología, Campus Puebla, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla 72410, Mexico
| | - Frouzandeh Mahjoubi
- Department of Clinical Genetics, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran P.O. Box 14965/161, Iran
| | - Karla Rubio
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico
- Licenciatura en Médico Cirujano, Universidad de la Salud del Estado de Puebla (USEP), Puebla 72000, Mexico
- Correspondence:
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13
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Setlai BP, Mkhize-Kwitshana ZL, Mehrotra R, Mulaudzi TV, Dlamini Z. Microbiomes, Epigenomics, Immune Response, and Splicing Signatures Interplay: Potential Use of Combination of Regulatory Pathways as Targets for Malignant Mesothelioma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:8991. [PMID: 36012262 PMCID: PMC9409175 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant mesotheliomas (MM) are hard to treat malignancies with poor prognosis and high mortality rates. This cancer is highly misdiagnosed in Sub-Saharan African countries. According to literature, the incidence of MM is likely to increase particularly in low-middle-income countries (LMICs). The burden of asbestos-induced diseases was estimated to be about 231,000 per annum. Lack of awareness and implementation of regulatory frameworks to control exposure to asbestos fibers contributes to the expected increase. Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to cancer initiation by several mechanisms. Asbestos-induced epigenetic modifications of gene expression machinery and non-coding RNAs promote cancer initiation and progression. Furthermore, microbiome-epigenetic interactions control the innate and adaptive immunity causing exacerbation of cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. This review discusses epigenetic mechanisms with more focus on miRNAs and their interaction with the microbiome. The potential use of epigenetic alterations and microbiota as specific biomarkers to aid in the early detection and/or development of therapeutic targets is explored. The advancement of combinatorial therapies to prolong overall patient survival or possible eradication of MM especially if it is detected early is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Botle Precious Setlai
- Department of Surgery, Level 7, Bridge E, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0007, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences, Medical School Campus, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Zilungile Lynette Mkhize-Kwitshana
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences, Medical School Campus, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Ravi Mehrotra
- India Cancer Research Consortium (ICMR-DHR), Department of Health Research, Red Cross Road, New Delhi 110001, India
| | - Thanyani Victor Mulaudzi
- Department of Surgery, Level 7, Bridge E, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0007, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
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14
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Alseksek RK, Ramadan WS, Saleh E, El-Awady R. The Role of HDACs in the Response of Cancer Cells to Cellular Stress and the Potential for Therapeutic Intervention. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:8141. [PMID: 35897717 PMCID: PMC9331760 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Throughout the process of carcinogenesis, cancer cells develop intricate networks to adapt to a variety of stressful conditions including DNA damage, nutrient deprivation, and hypoxia. These molecular networks encounter genomic instability and mutations coupled with changes in the gene expression programs due to genetic and epigenetic alterations. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are important modulators of the epigenetic constitution of cancer cells. It has become increasingly known that HDACs have the capacity to regulate various cellular systems through the deacetylation of histone and bounteous nonhistone proteins that are rooted in complex pathways in cancer cells to evade death pathways and immune surveillance. Elucidation of the signaling pathways involved in the adaptive responses to cellular stress and the role of HDACs may lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents. In this article, we overview the dominant stress types including metabolic, oxidative, genotoxic, and proteotoxic stress imposed on cancer cells in the context of HDACs, which guide stress adaptation responses. Next, we expose a closer view on the therapeutic interventions and clinical trials that involve HDACs inhibitors, in addition to highlighting the impact of using HDAC inhibitors in combination with stress-inducing agents for the management of cancer and to overcome the resistance to current cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahma K. Alseksek
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates;
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Wafaa S. Ramadan
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ekram Saleh
- Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 12613, Egypt;
| | - Raafat El-Awady
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates;
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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15
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Chen X, Wu W, Wei W, Zou L. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:869488. [PMID: 35559250 PMCID: PMC9086454 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.869488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) are highly heterogeneous and present significant treatment challenges. Immune checkpoint therapies, such as PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors, have significantly changed the clinical management paradigm of tumors. The roles of immune checkpoints in PTCL and related agents have been actively explored over recent years. PD-1 and PD-L1 expression is detectable in both PTCL and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment and forms the basis for the exploration of antibodies targeting these proteins. Such antibodies are currently being investigated in clinical trials to guide individualized therapy. PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors alone and in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or targeted therapy have shown broad clinical efficacy and improved the survival of cancer patients. Studies of other immune checkpoint proteins, such as CTLA-4, TIM-3, LAG-3, and TIGIT, are likely to provide potential novel targets for immunotherapy. Here, we review the role of and recent advances in immune checkpoint blockade in common subtypes of PTCL, focusing on the anti-tumor immune responses to PD-1/PD-L1 blockers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Department of Radiotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanchun Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenwen Wei
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liqun Zou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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16
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Gatto L, Di Nunno V, Franceschi E, Tosoni A, Bartolini S, Brandes AA. Pharmacotherapeutic Treatment of Glioblastoma: Where Are We to Date? Drugs 2022; 82:491-510. [PMID: 35397073 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-022-01702-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The clinical management of glioblastoma (GBM) is still bereft of treatments able to significantly improve the poor prognosis of the disease. Despite the extreme clinical need for novel therapeutic drugs, only a small percentage of patients with GBM benefit from inclusion in a clinical trial. Moreover, often clinical studies do not lead to final interpretable conclusions. From the mistakes and negative results obtained in the last years, we are now able to plan a novel generation of clinical studies for patients with GBM, allowing the testing of multiple anticancer agents at the same time. This assumes critical importance, considering that, thanks to improved knowledge of altered molecular mechanisms related to the disease, we are now able to propose several potential effective compounds in patients with both newly diagnosed and recurrent GBM. Among the novel compounds assessed, the initially great enthusiasm toward trials employing immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) was disappointing due to the negative results that emerged in three randomized phase III trials. However, novel biological insights into the disease suggest that immunotherapy can be a convincing and effective treatment in GBM even if ICIs failed to prolong the survival of these patients. In this regard, the most promising approach consists of engineered immune cells such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T, CAR M, and CAR NK alone or in combination with other treatments. In this review, we discuss several issues related to systemic treatments in GBM patients. First, we assess critical issues toward the planning of clinical trials and the strategies employed to overcome these obstacles. We then move on to the most relevant interventional studies carried out on patients with previously untreated (newly diagnosed) GBM and those with recurrent and pretreated disease. Finally, we investigate novel immunotherapeutic approaches with special emphasis on preclinical and clinical data related to the administration of engineered immune cells in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Gatto
- Department of Oncology, AUSL Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Franceschi
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Via Altura 3, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Alicia Tosoni
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Via Altura 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Bartolini
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Via Altura 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alba Ariela Brandes
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Via Altura 3, Bologna, Italy
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17
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Epigenetic Factors in Eutopic Endometrium in Women with Endometriosis and Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073804. [PMID: 35409163 PMCID: PMC8998720 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Eutopic endometrium in patients with endometriosis is characterized by aberrant expression of essential genes during the implantation window. It predisposes to disturbance of endometrial receptivity. The pathomechanism of implantation failures in women with endometriosis remains unclear. This paper aims to summarize the knowledge on epigenetic mechanisms in eutopic endometrium in the group of patients with both endometriosis and infertility. The impaired DNA methylation patterns of gene promoter regions in eutopic tissue was established. The global profile of histone acetylation and methylation and the analysis of selected histone modifications showed significant differences in the endometrium of women with endometriosis. Aberrant expression of the proposed candidate genes may promote an unfavorable embryonic implantation environment of the endometrium due to an immunological dysfunction, inflammatory reaction, and apoptotic response in women with endometriosis. The role of the newly discovered proteins regulating gene expression, i.e., TET proteins, in endometrial pathology is not yet completely known. The cells of the eutopic endometrium in women with endometriosis contain a stable, impaired methylation pattern and a histone code. Medication targeting critical genes responsible for the aberrant gene expression pattern in eutopic endometrium may help treat infertility in women with endometriosis.
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18
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Kang S, El-Rayes BF, Akce M. Evolving Role of Immunotherapy in Advanced Biliary Tract Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1748. [PMID: 35406520 PMCID: PMC8996885 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Biliary tract cancers (BTC) comprise a rare and diverse group of malignancies that involve the gallbladder and biliary tree. These cancers typically present in later stages because they are aggressive in nature and affected patients are often asymptomatic in earlier stages of disease. Moreover, BTCs are generally refractory to cytotoxic chemotherapy, which further contributes to their associated poor survival outcomes. Novel therapy approaches are clearly needed. Molecular targeted agents have been developed based on our expanding knowledge of the genetic mutations underlying BTCs and represent a promising treatment strategy in molecularly selected subgroups of patients. In addition, the advent of immunotherapy over recent years has dramatically changed the bleak outcomes observed in malignancies such as melanoma. Our growing understanding of the complex tumor microenvironment in BTC has identified mechanisms of tumor immune evasion that could potentially be targeted with immunotherapy. As a result, different immunotherapeutic approaches including immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, and adoptive cell therapy, have been investigated. The use of immunotherapeutic agents is currently only approved for a small subset of treatment-refractory BTCs based on microsatellite instability (MSI) status and tumor mutational burden (TMB), but this will likely change with the potential approval of immunotherapy plus chemotherapy as a result of the TOPAZ-1 trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Kang
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
| | - Bassel F. El-Rayes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA;
| | - Mehmet Akce
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
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19
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Enhanced Cytotoxic Effects in Human Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells Treated with Combined Methyltransferase Inhibitors and Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040763. [PMID: 35453513 PMCID: PMC9029187 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Combined treatment of human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCCs) with DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTis), histone methyltransferase inhibitors (HMTis), and histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis), and the molecular mechanisms underlying their anticancer effects, have not been fully elucidated. Herein, we investigated the cytotoxic effects of combined DNMTis (5-Aza-deoxycytidine: 5-Aza-dC, RG108), HMTis (3-deazaneplanocin A: DZNep), and HDACis (trichostatin A: TSA) treatment on human OSCC cells and explored their molecular mechanisms. Combined 5-Aza-dC, or RG108, and TSA treatment significantly decreased HSC-2 and Ca9-22 cell viability. Combinatorial DZNep and TSA treatment also decreased Ca9-22 cell viability. Although caspase 3/7 activation was not observed in HSC-2 cells following combined treatment, caspase activity was significantly increased in Ca9-22 cells treated with DZNep and TSA. Moreover, combined treatment with 5-Aza-dC, RG108, and TSA increased the proportion of HSC-2 and Ca9-22 cells in the S and G2/M phases. Meanwhile, increased phosphorylation of the histone variant H2A.X, a marker of double-stranded DNA breaks, was observed in both cells after combination treatment. Hence, the decreased viability induced by combined treatment with epigenomic inhibitors results from apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in S and G2/M phases. Thus, epigenomic therapy comprising combined low concentrations of DNMTi, HMTi, and HDACi is effective against OSCC.
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20
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Nguyen TTT, Shang E, Schiffgens S, Torrini C, Shu C, Akman HO, Prabhu VV, Allen JE, Westhoff MA, Karpel-Massler G, Siegelin MD. Induction of Synthetic Lethality by Activation of Mitochondrial ClpP and Inhibition of HDAC1/2 in Glioblastoma. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:1881-1895. [PMID: 35417530 PMCID: PMC9118753 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-2857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Novel therapeutic targets are critical to unravel for the most common primary brain tumor in adults, glioblastoma (GBM). We have identified a novel synthetic lethal interaction between ClpP activation and HDAC1/2 inhibition that converges on GBM energy metabolism. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Transcriptome, metabolite, and U-13C-glucose tracing analyses were utilized in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of GBM. Orthotopic GBM models were used for in vivo studies. RESULTS We showed that activation of the mitochondrial ClpP protease by mutant ClpP (Y118A) or through utilization of second-generation imipridone compounds (ONC206 and ONC212) in combination with genetic interference of HDAC1 and HDAC2 as well as with global (panobinostat) or selective (romidepsin) HDAC inhibitors caused synergistic reduction of viability in GBM model systems, which was mediated by interference with tricarboxylic acid cycle activity and GBM cell respiration. This effect was partially mediated by activation of apoptosis along with activation of caspases regulated chiefly by Bcl-xL and Mcl-1. Knockdown of the ClpP protease or ectopic expression of a ClpP D190A mutant substantially rescued from the inhibition of oxidative energy metabolism as well as from the reduction of cellular viability by ClpP activators and the combination treatment, respectively. Finally, utilizing GBM PDX models, we demonstrated that the combination treatment of HDAC inhibitors and imipridones prolonged host survival more potently than single treatments or vehicle in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these observations suggest that the efficacy of HDAC inhibitors might be significantly enhanced through ClpP activators in model systems of human GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trang T T Nguyen
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Enyuan Shang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bronx Community College, City University of New York, Bronx, New York
| | - Salveena Schiffgens
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Consuelo Torrini
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Chang Shu
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Hasan Orhan Akman
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | | | | | - Mike-Andrew Westhoff
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Markus D Siegelin
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
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21
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Wang X, Zhang C, Zhang X, Wang J, Zhao L, Zhao D, Cheng M. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of 2-aminopyrimidine-based LSD1 inhibitors. Bioorg Chem 2022; 121:105699. [PMID: 35219044 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
AZD9291, with excellent pharmaceutical properties, has been reported to have certain LSD1 inhibitory activity. Therefore, we carried out structural optimization based on the AZD9291 skeleton to increase the LSD1 inhibitory potential of the compound. Then, a series of 2-aminopyrimidine derivatives were designed and synthesized as LSD1 inhibitors, and their structure-activity relationships were studied. The most promising compound, X43, with an IC50 of 0.89 μM showed remarkable LSD1 selectivity not only to EGFRwt (>100-fold) but also to MAO-A/B (>50-fold). Further studies showed that X43 inhibited LSD1 activity and induced the apoptosis of A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, compound X43 showed a superior ability to inhibit the proliferation of A549 and THP-1 cells, with IC50 values of 1.62 μM and 1.21 μM, respectively. Then, analyses of the stability of human liver microsomes, CYP inhibition and in vivo pharmacokinetics in rats showed that X43 had favorable profiles in vitro and in vivo and the potential for further study. Our findings suggested that a 2-aminopyrimidine-based LSD1 inhibitor deserves further investigation as a treatment for LSD1-overexpressing cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinran Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China; School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Chaoyang District, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Cai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China; Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Chaoyang District, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jiming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Liyu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Dongmei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China.
| | - Maosheng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
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Sharma R, Sharma S, Thakur A, Singh A, Singh J, Nepali K, Liou JP. The Role of Epigenetic Mechanisms in Autoimmune, Neurodegenerative, Cardiovascular, and Imprinting Disorders. Mini Rev Med Chem 2022; 22:1977-2011. [PMID: 35176978 DOI: 10.2174/1389557522666220217103441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic mutations like aberrant DNA methylation, histone modifications, or RNA silencing are found in a number of human diseases. This review article discusses the epigenetic mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular disorders, auto-immune disorder, and genomic imprinting disorders. In addition, emerging epigenetic therapeutic strategies for the treatment of such disorders are presented. Medicinal chemistry campaigns highlighting the efforts of the chemists invested towards the rational design of small molecule inhibitors have also been included. Pleasingly, several classes of epigenetic inhibitors, DNMT, HDAC, BET, HAT, and HMT inhibitors along with RNA based therapies have exhibited the potential to emerge as therapeutics in the longer run. It is quite hopeful that epigenetic modulator-based therapies will advance to clinical stage investigations by leaps and bounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sachin Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Amandeep Thakur
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Arshdeep Singh
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jagjeet Singh
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Pharmacy, Rayat-Bahara Group of Institutes, Hoshiarpur, India
| | - Kunal Nepali
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jing Ping Liou
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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HDAC Inhibition for Optimized Cellular Immunotherapy of NY-ESO-1-Positive Soft Tissue Sarcoma. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020373. [PMID: 35203582 PMCID: PMC8962361 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy with NY-ESO-1-specific T cells is a promising option for the treatment of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) but achieves only transient tumor control in the majority of cases. A strategy to optimize this cell therapeutic approach might be the modulation of the expression of the cancer-testis antigen NY-ESO-1 using histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis). In this study, the ex vivo effect of combining NY-ESO-1-specific T cells with the clinically approved pan HDACis panobinostat or vorionstat was investigated. Our data demonstrated that STS cells were sensitive to HDACis. Administration of HDACi prior to NY-ESO-1-specific T cells exerted enhanced lysis against the NY-ESO-1+ STS cell line SW982. This correlated with an increase in the NY-ESO-1 and HLA-ABC expression of SW982 cells, as well as increased CD25 expression on NY-ESO-1-specific T cells. Furthermore, the immune reactivity of NY-ESO-1-specific CD8+ T cells in terms of cytokine release was enhanced by HDACis. In summary, pretreatment with HDACis represents a potential means of enhancing the cytotoxic efficacy of NY-ESO-1-specific T cells against NY-ESO-1-positive STS.
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24
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do Amaral-Silva GK, Morais TMDL, Wagner VP, Martins MD, Fregnani ER, Soares FA, Rocha AC, Pontes HR, Santos-Silva AR, Vargas PA. Expression of DNMTs and H3K9ac in Ameloblastoma and Ameloblastic Carcinoma. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2022; 2:751162. [PMID: 35048062 PMCID: PMC8757744 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2021.751162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and the histone modification H3K9ac are epigenetic markers. This study aimed to describe the immunohistochemical expression of DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, and H3K9ac in the dental follicle (DF), ameloblastoma (AME), and ameloblastic carcinoma (AC), correlating these expressions with the recurrence and aggressive behavior in ameloblastoma. Study Design: Immunohistochemical reactions were performed in 10 human DFs, 38 ameloblastomas, and 6 AC samples. Another 59 ameloblastomas assembled in a tissue microarray were used to compare the immunoexpression with the clinical, radiographic, and histopathological characteristics and the presence of BRAFv600e mutation. Each slide was digitized as a high-resolution image and quantified by Aperio ScanScope Nuclear V9 software. All statistical analyzes were performed using GraphPad Prism statistical software. Results: DNMT3B expression was higher in ameloblastomas than in the DFs, while the AC overexpressed all proteins. The ameloblastomas with BRAFv600e mutation, vestibular/lingual, or vestibular/palatine bone cortical disruption and maxilla involvement showed DNMT1 overexpression, while recurrent cases had high DNMT3B levels. Conclusions: DNA methylation and histone modification might play a role in the development, clinical aggressiveness, and recurrence rates of ameloblastoma, such as the progression to AC. Further investigation about gene methylations in ameloblastomas is needed to better understand its relationship with aggressiveness and recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vivian Petersen Wagner
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Manoela Domingues Martins
- Department of Pathology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | | - André Caroli Rocha
- Medical School, Clinics Hospital, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Helder Rabelo Pontes
- Service of Buccal Pathology, João de Barros Barreto University Hospital, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Brazil
| | - Alan Roger Santos-Silva
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Pablo Agustin Vargas
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, Brazil
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25
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Hua C, Chen J, Li S, Zhou J, Fu J, Sun W, Wang W. KDM6 Demethylases and Their Roles in Human Cancers. Front Oncol 2021; 11:779918. [PMID: 34950587 PMCID: PMC8688854 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.779918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapy is moving beyond traditional chemotherapy to include epigenetic approaches. KDM6 demethylases are dynamic regulation of gene expression by histone demethylation in response to diverse stimuli, and thus their dysregulation has been observed in various cancers. In this review, we first briefly introduce structural features of KDM6 subfamily, and then discuss the regulation of KDM6, which involves the coordinated control between cellular metabolism (intrinsic regulators) and tumor microenvironment (extrinsic stimuli). We further describe the aberrant functions of KDM6 in human cancers, acting as either a tumor suppressor or an oncoprotein in a context-dependent manner. Finally, we propose potential therapy of KDM6 enzymes based on their structural features, epigenetics, and immunomodulatory mechanisms, providing novel insights for prevention and treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Hua
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | | | - Shuting Li
- Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | | | - Jiahong Fu
- Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Weijian Sun
- Department of Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenqian Wang
- Department of Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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26
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Dai E, Zhu Z, Wahed S, Qu Z, Storkus WJ, Guo ZS. Epigenetic modulation of antitumor immunity for improved cancer immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:171. [PMID: 34930302 PMCID: PMC8691037 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01464-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms play vital roles not only in cancer initiation and progression, but also in the activation, differentiation and effector function(s) of immune cells. In this review, we summarize current literature related to epigenomic dynamics in immune cells impacting immune cell fate and functionality, and the immunogenicity of cancer cells. Some important immune-associated genes, such as granzyme B, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-12, FoxP3 and STING, are regulated via epigenetic mechanisms in immune or/and cancer cells, as are immune checkpoint molecules (PD-1, CTLA-4, TIM-3, LAG-3, TIGIT) expressed by immune cells and tumor-associated stromal cells. Thus, therapeutic strategies implementing epigenetic modulating drugs are expected to significantly impact the tumor microenvironment (TME) by promoting transcriptional and metabolic reprogramming in local immune cell populations, resulting in inhibition of immunosuppressive cells (MDSCs and Treg) and the activation of anti-tumor T effector cells, professional antigen presenting cells (APC), as well as cancer cells which can serve as non-professional APC. In the latter instance, epigenetic modulating agents may coordinately promote tumor immunogenicity by inducing de novo expression of transcriptionally repressed tumor-associated antigens, increasing expression of neoantigens and MHC processing/presentation machinery, and activating tumor immunogenic cell death (ICD). ICD provides a rich source of immunogens for anti-tumor T cell cross-priming and sensitizing cancer cells to interventional immunotherapy. In this way, epigenetic modulators may be envisioned as effective components in combination immunotherapy approaches capable of mediating superior therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enyong Dai
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zhi Zhu
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Surgical Oncology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shudipto Wahed
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Zhaoxia Qu
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Walter J Storkus
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Departments of Dermatology, Immunology, Pathology and Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zong Sheng Guo
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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27
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Grunewald CM, Haist C, König C, Petzsch P, Bister A, Nößner E, Wiek C, Scheckenbach K, Köhrer K, Niegisch G, Hanenberg H, Hoffmann MJ. Epigenetic Priming of Bladder Cancer Cells With Decitabine Increases Cytotoxicity of Human EGFR and CD44v6 CAR Engineered T-Cells. Front Immunol 2021; 12:782448. [PMID: 34868059 PMCID: PMC8637820 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.782448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Treatment of B-cell malignancies with CD19-directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells marked a new era in immunotherapy, which yet has to be successfully adopted to solid cancers. Epigenetic inhibitors of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTi) and histone deacetylases (HDACi) can induce broad changes in gene expression of malignant cells, thus making these inhibitors interesting combination partners for immunotherapeutic approaches. Methods Urothelial carcinoma cell lines (UCC) and benign uroepithelial HBLAK cells pretreated with the DNMTi decitabine or the HDACi romidepsin were co-incubated with CAR T-cells directed against EGFR or CD44v6, and subsequent cytotoxicity assays were performed. Effects on T-cell cytotoxicity and surface antigen expression on UCC were determined by flow cytometry. We also performed next-generation mRNA sequencing of inhibitor-treated UCC and siRNA-mediated knockdown of potential regulators of CAR T-cell killing. Results Exposure to decitabine but not romidepsin enhanced CAR T-cell cytotoxicity towards all UCC lines, but not towards the benign HBLAK cells. Increased killing could neither be attributed to enhanced target antigen expression (EGFR and CD44v6) nor fully explained by changes in the T-cell ligands PD-L1, PD-L2, ICAM-1, or CD95. Instead, gene expression analysis suggested that regulators of cell survival and apoptosis were differentially induced by the treatment. Decitabine altered the balance between survival and apoptosis factors towards an apoptosis-sensitive state associated with increased CAR T-cell killing, while romidepsin, at least partially, tilted this balance in the opposite direction. Knockdown experiments with siRNA in UCC confirmed BID and BCL2L1/BCLX as two key factors for the altered susceptibility of the UCC. Conclusion Our data suggest that the combination of decitabine with CAR T-cell therapy is an attractive novel therapeutic approach to enhance tumor-specific killing of bladder cancer. Since BID and BCL2L1 are essential determinants for the susceptibility of a wide variety of malignant cells, their targeting might be additionally suitable for combination with immunotherapies, e.g., CAR T-cells or checkpoint inhibitors in other malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla M Grunewald
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Corinna Haist
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics III, University Children's Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Carolin König
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Patrick Petzsch
- Biological and Medical Research Center (BMFZ), Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Arthur Bister
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics III, University Children's Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Elfriede Nößner
- Immunoanalytics: Tissue Control of Immunocytes, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Constanze Wiek
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Kathrin Scheckenbach
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Karl Köhrer
- Biological and Medical Research Center (BMFZ), Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Günter Niegisch
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Helmut Hanenberg
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics III, University Children's Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Michèle J Hoffmann
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
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28
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Alterations of Chromatin Regulators in the Pathogenesis of Urinary Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13236040. [PMID: 34885146 PMCID: PMC8656749 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13236040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Urinary bladder cancer is one of the ten major cancers worldwide, with higher incidences in males, in smokers, and in highly industrialized countries. New therapies beyond cytotoxic chemotherapy are urgently needed to improve treatment of these tumors. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying their development may help in this regard. Recently, it was discovered that a group of proteins regulating the state of chromatin and thus gene expression is exceptionally and frequently affected by gene mutations in bladder cancers. Altered function of these mutated chromatin regulators must therefore be fundamental in their development, but how and why is poorly understood. Here we review the current knowledge on changes in chromatin regulators and discuss their possible consequences for bladder cancer development and options for new therapies. Abstract Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is the most frequent histological type of cancer in the urinary bladder. Genomic changes in UC activate MAPK and PI3K/AKT signal transduction pathways, which increase cell proliferation and survival, interfere with cell cycle and checkpoint control, and prevent senescence. A more recently discovered additional category of genetic changes in UC affects chromatin regulators, including histone-modifying enzymes (KMT2C, KMT2D, KDM6A, EZH2), transcription cofactors (CREBBP, EP300), and components of the chromatin remodeling complex SWI/SNF (ARID1A, SMARCA4). It is not yet well understood how these changes contribute to the development and progression of UC. Therefore, we review here the emerging knowledge on genomic and gene expression alterations of chromatin regulators and their consequences for cell differentiation, cellular plasticity, and clonal expansion during UC pathogenesis. Our analysis identifies additional relevant chromatin regulators and suggests a model for urothelial carcinogenesis as a basis for further mechanistic studies and targeted therapy development.
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29
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Gatto L, Franceschi E, Di Nunno V, Maggio I, Lodi R, Brandes AA. Engineered CAR-T and novel CAR-based therapies to fight the immune evasion of glioblastoma: gutta cavat lapidem. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2021; 21:1333-1353. [PMID: 34734551 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2021.1997599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The field of cancer immunotherapy has achieved great advancements through the application of genetically engineered T cells with chimeric antigen receptors (CAR), that have shown exciting success in eradicating hematologic malignancies and have proved to be safe with promising early signs of antitumoral activity in the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). AREAS COVERED We discuss the use of CAR T cells in GBM, focusing on limitations and obstacles to advancement, mostly related to toxicities, hostile tumor microenvironment, limited CAR T cells infiltration and persistence, target antigen loss/heterogeneity and inadequate trafficking. Furthermore, we introduce the refined strategies aimed at strengthening CAR T activity and offer insights in to novel immunotherapeutic approaches, such as the potential use of CAR NK or CAR M to optimize anti-tumor effects for GBM management. EXPERT OPINION With the progressive wide use of CAR T cell therapy, significant challenges in treating solid tumors, including central nervous system (CNS) tumors, are emerging, highlighting early disease relapse and cancer cell resistance issues, owing to hostile immunosuppressive microenvironment and tumor antigen heterogeneity. In addition to CAR T cells, there is great interest in utilizing other types of CAR-based therapies, such as CAR natural killer (CAR NK) or CAR macrophages (CAR M) cells for CNS tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Gatto
- Medical Oncology Department, Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy
| | - Enrico Franceschi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Oncologia Medica del Sistema Nervoso, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Maggio
- Medical Oncology Department, Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy
| | - Raffaele Lodi
- IrcssIstituto di Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alba Ariela Brandes
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Oncologia Medica del Sistema Nervoso, Bologna, Italy
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30
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Singh M, Thakur M, Mishra M, Yadav M, Vibhuti R, Menon AM, Nagda G, Dwivedi VP, Dakal TC, Yadav V. Gene regulation of intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1): A molecule with multiple functions. Immunol Lett 2021; 240:123-136. [PMID: 34715236 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2021.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) is one of the most extensively studied inducible cell adhesion molecules which is responsible for several immune functions like T cell activation, extravasation, inflammation, etc. The molecule is constitutively expressed over the cell surface and is regulated up / down in response to inflammatory mediators like cellular stress, proinflammatory cytokines, viral infection. These stimuli modulate the expression of ICAM-1 primarily through regulating the ICAM-1 gene transcription. On account of the presence of various binding sites for NF-κB, AP-1, SP-1, and many other transcription factors, the architecture of the ICAM-1 promoter become complex. Transcription factors in union with other transcription factors, coactivators, and suppressors promote their assembly in a stereospecific manner on ICAM-1 promoter which mediates ICAM-1 regulation in response to different stimuli. Along with transcriptional regulation, epigenetic modifications also play a pivotal role in controlling ICAM-1 expression on different cell types. In this review, we summarize the regulation of ICAM-1 expression both at the transcriptional as well as post-transcriptional level with an emphasis on transcription factors and signaling pathways involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067 India
| | - Mony Thakur
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, Haryana-123031 India
| | - Manish Mishra
- Division of Cell Biology and Immunology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research- Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh-160036 India
| | - Manisha Yadav
- Division of Cell Biology and Immunology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research- Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh-160036 India
| | - Rajkamal Vibhuti
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, Haryana-123031 India
| | - Athira M Menon
- Genome and computational Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001 India
| | - Girima Nagda
- Department of Zoology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan-313001 India
| | - Ved Prakash Dwivedi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, ICGEB Campus, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-110067 India
| | - Tikam Chand Dakal
- Genome and computational Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001 India
| | - Vinod Yadav
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, Haryana-123031 India
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31
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Xiao S, Guo S, Han J, Sun Y, Wang M, Chen Y, Fang X, Yang F, Mu Y, Zhang L, Ding Y, Zhang N, Jiang H, Chen K, Zhao K, Luo C, Chen S. High-Throughput-Methyl-Reading (HTMR) assay: a solution based on nucleotide methyl-binding proteins enables large-scale screening for DNA/RNA methyltransferases and demethylases. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 50:e9. [PMID: 34718755 PMCID: PMC8789064 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic therapy has significant potential for cancer treatment. However, few small potent molecules have been identified against DNA or RNA modification regulatory proteins. Current approaches for activity detection of DNA/RNA methyltransferases and demethylases are time-consuming and labor-intensive, making it difficult to subject them to high-throughput screening. Here, we developed a fluorescence polarization-based ‘High-Throughput Methyl Reading’ (HTMR) assay to implement large-scale compound screening for DNA/RNA methyltransferases and demethylases-DNMTs, TETs, ALKBH5 and METTL3/METTL14. This assay is simple to perform in a mix-and-read manner by adding the methyl-binding proteins MBD1 or YTHDF1. The proteins can be used to distinguish FAM-labelled substrates or product oligonucleotides with different methylation statuses catalyzed by enzymes. Therefore, the extent of the enzymatic reactions can be coupled with the variation of FP binding signals. Furthermore, this assay can be effectively used to conduct a cofactor competition study. Based on the assay, we identified two natural products as candidate compounds for DNMT1 and ALKBH5. In summary, this study outlines a powerful homogeneous approach for high-throughput screening and evaluating enzymatic activity for DNA/RNA methyltransferases and demethylases that is cheap, easy, quick, and highly sensitive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senhao Xiao
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Siqi Guo
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmacy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jie Han
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yanli Sun
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education; Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Mingchen Wang
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yantao Chen
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xueyu Fang
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Feng Yang
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yajuan Mu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yiluan Ding
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Naixia Zhang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hualiang Jiang
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kaixian Chen
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kehao Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education; Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Cheng Luo
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Shijie Chen
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
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Hazini A, Fisher K, Seymour L. Deregulation of HLA-I in cancer and its central importance for immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:e002899. [PMID: 34353849 PMCID: PMC8344275 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-002899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now well accepted that many tumors undergo a process of clonal selection which means that tumor antigens arising at various stages of tumor progression are likely to be represented in just a subset of tumor cells. This process is thought to be driven by constant immunosurveillance which applies selective pressure by eliminating tumor cells expressing antigens that are recognized by T cells. It is becoming increasingly clear that the same selective pressure may also select for tumor cells that evade immune detection by acquiring deficiencies in their human leucocyte antigen (HLA) presentation pathways, allowing important tumor antigens to persist within cells undetected by the immune system. Deficiencies in antigen presentation pathway can arise by a variety of mechanisms, including genetic and epigenetic changes, and functional antigen presentation is a hard phenomenon to assess using our standard analytical techniques. Nevertheless, it is likely to have profound clinical significance and could well define whether an individual patient will respond to a particular type of therapy or not. In this review we consider the mechanisms by which HLA function may be lost in clinical disease, we assess the implications for current immunotherapy approaches using checkpoint inhibitors and examine the prognostic impact of HLA loss demonstrated in clinical trials so far. Finally, we propose strategies that might be explored for possible patient stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Hazini
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Kerry Fisher
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Len Seymour
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
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33
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Trager MH, Sah B, Chen Z, Liu L. Control of Breast Cancer Pathogenesis by Histone Methylation and the Hairless Histone Demethylase. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6259332. [PMID: 33928351 PMCID: PMC8237996 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease, encompassing many subtypes that have distinct origins, behaviors, and prognoses. Although traditionally seen as a genetic disease, breast cancer is now also known to involve epigenetic abnormalities. Epigenetic regulators, such as DNA methyltransferases and histone-modifying enzymes, play essential roles in gene regulation and cancer development. Dysregulation of epigenetic regulator activity has been causally linked with breast cancer pathogenesis. Hairless (HR) encodes a 130-kDa transcription factor that is essential for development and tissue homeostasis. Its role in transcription regulation is partly mediated by its interaction with multiple nuclear receptors, including thyroid hormone receptor, retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptors, and vitamin D receptor. HR has been studied primarily in epidermal development and homeostasis. Hr-mutant mice are highly susceptible to ultraviolet- or carcinogen-induced skin tumors. Besides its putative tumor suppressor function in skin, loss of HR function has also been implicated in increased leukemia susceptibility and promotes the growth of melanoma and brain cancer cells. HR has also been demonstrated to function as a histone H3 lysine 9 demethylase. Recent genomics studies have identified HR mutations in a variety of human cancers, including breast cancer. The anticancer function and mechanism of action by HR in mammary tissue remains to be investigated. Here, we review the emerging role of HR, its histone demethylase activity and histone methylation in breast cancer development, and potential for epigenetic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan H Trager
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Bindeshwar Sah
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota 55912, USA
| | - Zhongming Chen
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota 55912, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55912, USA
| | - Liang Liu
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota 55912, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55912, USA
- Correspondence: Liang Liu, PhD, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, 55912, USA.
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34
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Fernandez A, O’Leary C, O’Byrne KJ, Burgess J, Richard DJ, Suraweera A. Epigenetic Mechanisms in DNA Double Strand Break Repair: A Clinical Review. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:685440. [PMID: 34307454 PMCID: PMC8292790 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.685440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Upon the induction of DNA damage, the chromatin structure unwinds to allow access to enzymes to catalyse the repair. The regulation of the winding and unwinding of chromatin occurs via epigenetic modifications, which can alter gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. Epigenetic mechanisms such as histone acetylation and DNA methylation are known to be reversible and have been indicated to play different roles in the repair of DNA. More importantly, the inhibition of such mechanisms has been reported to play a role in the repair of double strand breaks, the most detrimental type of DNA damage. This occurs by manipulating the chromatin structure and the expression of essential proteins that are critical for homologous recombination and non-homologous end joining repair pathways. Inhibitors of histone deacetylases and DNA methyltransferases have demonstrated efficacy in the clinic and represent a promising approach for cancer therapy. The aims of this review are to summarise the role of histone deacetylase and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors involved in DNA double strand break repair and explore their current and future independent use in combination with other DNA repair inhibitors or pre-existing therapies in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Fernandez
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, School of Biomedical Sciences and Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Connor O’Leary
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, School of Biomedical Sciences and Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Kenneth J O’Byrne
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, School of Biomedical Sciences and Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Joshua Burgess
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, School of Biomedical Sciences and Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Derek J Richard
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, School of Biomedical Sciences and Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Amila Suraweera
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, School of Biomedical Sciences and Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
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35
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Dos Santos ES, Wagner VP, Cabral Ramos J, Lambert DW, Castilho RM, Paes Leme AF. Epigenetic modulation of the tumor microenvironment in head and neck cancer: Challenges and opportunities. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 164:103397. [PMID: 34146679 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer is globally challenging due to the resistance to therapy and aggressive behavior leading to high rates of mortality. Recent findings show that the tumor microenvironment plays a role in the maintenance and progression of many solid tumors, including head and neck cancer. The mechanisms involved in the modulation and regulation of the tumor microenvironment remain poorly understood. Increasing evidence suggests that epigenetic events can modulate the crosstalk between neoplastic and non-neoplastic cells during tumor progression. In this review, we explore the current understanding of the involvement of epigenetic events in the modulation of the tumor microenvironment and its impact on head and neck cancer behavior. We also explore the latest therapeutic strategies that use epigenetic-modulating drugs to manage tumor growth and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vivian Petersen Wagner
- The University of Sheffield Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health, 152607, Sheffield, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Joab Cabral Ramos
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Daniel W Lambert
- The University of Sheffield Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health, 152607, Sheffield, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Rogerio Moraes Castilho
- Laboratory of Epithelial Biology, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, Division of Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Ann Arbor, 48109-1078, MI, USA; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 48109, MI, USA
| | - Adriana Franco Paes Leme
- The Brazilian Bioscience National Laboratory, Center for Research in Energy and Materials, Campinas, Brazil
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36
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Lee YJ, Lee JB, Ha SJ, Kim HR. Clinical Perspectives to Overcome Acquired Resistance to Anti-Programmed Death-1 and Anti-Programmed Death Ligand-1 Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Mol Cells 2021; 44:363-373. [PMID: 34001680 PMCID: PMC8175154 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2021.0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have changed the paradigm of treatment options for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Monoclonal antibodies targeting programmed death-1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) have gained wide attention for their application, which has been shown to result in prolonged survival. Nevertheless, only a limited subset of patients show partial or complete response to PD-1 therapy, and patients who show a response eventually develop resistance to immunotherapy. This article aims to provide an overview of the mechanisms of acquired resistance to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy from the perspective of tumor cells and the surrounding microenvironment. In addition, we address the potential therapeutic targets and ongoing clinical trials, focusing mainly on NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Jun Lee
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jii Bum Lee
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Korea
| | - Sang-Jun Ha
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science & Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Hye Ryun Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
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37
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Abedalthagafi M, Mobark N, Al-Rashed M, AlHarbi M. Epigenomics and immunotherapeutic advances in pediatric brain tumors. NPJ Precis Oncol 2021; 5:34. [PMID: 33931704 PMCID: PMC8087701 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-021-00173-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are the leading cause of childhood cancer-related deaths. Similar to adult brain tumors, pediatric brain tumors are classified based on histopathological evaluations. However, pediatric brain tumors are often histologically inconsistent with adult brain tumors. Recent research findings from molecular genetic analyses have revealed molecular and genetic changes in pediatric tumors that are necessary for appropriate classification to avoid misdiagnosis, the development of treatment modalities, and the clinical management of tumors. As many of the molecular-based therapies developed from clinical trials on adults are not always effective against pediatric brain tumors, recent advances have improved our understanding of the molecular profiles of pediatric brain tumors and have led to novel epigenetic and immunotherapeutic treatment approaches currently being evaluated in clinical trials. In this review, we focus on primary malignant brain tumors in children and genetic, epigenetic, and molecular characteristics that differentiate them from brain tumors in adults. The comparison of pediatric and adult brain tumors highlights the need for treatments designed specifically for pediatric brain tumors. We also discuss the advancements in novel molecularly targeted drugs and how they are being integrated with standard therapy to improve the classification and outcomes of pediatric brain tumors in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malak Abedalthagafi
- Genomics Research Department, Saudi Human Genome Project, King Fahad Medical City and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Nahla Mobark
- Department of Paediatric Oncology Comprehensive Cancer Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - May Al-Rashed
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Chair of Medical and Molecular Genetics Research, Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Musa AlHarbi
- Department of Paediatric Oncology Comprehensive Cancer Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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38
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Xu N, Tse B, Yang L, Tang TCY, Haber M, Micklethwaite K, Dolnikov A. Priming Leukemia with 5-Azacytidine Enhances CAR T Cell Therapy. Immunotargets Ther 2021; 10:123-140. [PMID: 33954150 PMCID: PMC8091475 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s296161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Despite the success of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells in clinical studies, a significant proportion of responding patients eventually relapsed, with the latter correlating with low CAR T cell expansion and persistence. Methods and Results Using patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models of CD19+ B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), we show that priming leukemia-bearing mice with 5-azacytidine (AZA) enhances CAR T cell therapy. AZA given 1 day prior to CAR T cell infusion delayed leukemia growth and promoted CAR T cell expansion and effector function. Priming leukemia cells with AZA increased CAR T cell/target cell conjugation and target cell killing, promoted CAR T cell divisions and expanded IFNγ+ effector T cells in co-cultures with CD19+ leukemia Nalm-6 and Raji cells. Transcriptome analysis revealed activation of diverse immune pathways in leukemia cells isolated from mice treated with AZA. We propose that epigenetic priming with AZA induces transcriptional changes that sensitize tumor cells to subsequent CAR T cell treatment. Among the candidate genes up-regulated by AZA is TNFSF4 which encodes OX40L, one of the strongest T cell co-stimulatory ligands. OX40L binds OX40, the TNF receptor superfamily member highly specific for activated T cells. TNFSF4 is heterogeneously expressed in a panel of pediatric PDXs, and high TNFSF4 expression correlated with increased CAR T cell numbers identified in co-cultures with individual PDXs. High OX40L expression in Nalm-6 cells increased their susceptibility to CAR T cell killing while OX40L blockade reduced leukemia cell killing. Conclusion We propose that treatment with AZA activates OX40L/OX40 co-stimulatory signaling in CAR T cells. Our data suggest that the clinical use of AZA before CAR T cells could be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Xu
- Children's Cancer Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Benjamin Tse
- Children's Cancer Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lu Yang
- Children's Cancer Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tiffany C Y Tang
- Children's Cancer Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle Haber
- Children's Cancer Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kenneth Micklethwaite
- Blood Transplant and Cell Therapies Program, Department of Hematology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Cellular Therapies Laboratory, NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alla Dolnikov
- Children's Cancer Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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39
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Ramaiah MJ, Tangutur AD, Manyam RR. Epigenetic modulation and understanding of HDAC inhibitors in cancer therapy. Life Sci 2021; 277:119504. [PMID: 33872660 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The role of genetic and epigenetic factors in tumor initiation and progression is well documented. Histone deacetylases (HDACs), histone methyl transferases (HMTs), and DNA methyl transferases. (DNMTs) are the main proteins that are involved in regulating the chromatin conformation. Among these, histone deacetylases (HDAC) deacetylate the histone and induce gene repression thereby leading to cancer. In contrast, histone acetyl transferases (HATs) that include GCN5, p300/CBP, PCAF, Tip 60 acetylate the histones. HDAC inhibitors are potent drug molecules that can induce acetylation of histones at lysine residues and induce open chromatin conformation at tumor suppressor gene loci and thus resulting in tumor suppression. The key processes regulated by HDAC inhibitors include cell-cycle arrest, chemo-sensitization, apoptosis induction, upregulation of tumor suppressors. Even though FDA approved drugs are confined mainly to haematological malignancies, the research on HDAC inhibitors in glioblastoma multiforme and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) are providing positive results. Thus, several combinations of HDAC inhibitors along with DNA methyl transferase inhibitors and histone methyl transferase inhibitors are in clinical trials. This review focuses on how HDAC inhibitors regulate the expression of coding and non-coding genes with specific emphasis on their anti-cancer potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Janaki Ramaiah
- Laboratory of Functional genomics and Disease Biology, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Anjana Devi Tangutur
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad 500 007, Telangana, India
| | - Rajasekhar Reddy Manyam
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, Andhra Pradesh, India
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40
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Wang Y, Li X, Chen Q, Jiao F, Shi C, Pei M, Wang L, Gong Z. Histone Deacetylase 6 Regulates the Activation of M1 Macrophages by the Glycolytic Pathway During Acute Liver Failure. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:1473-1485. [PMID: 33883923 PMCID: PMC8055295 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s302391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The glycolysis pathway of M1 macrophages is a key factor affecting the inflammatory response. The aim of this article is to investigate the role of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) in the M1 macrophage glycolysis pathway during acute liver failure (ALF). Methodology Targeted metabolomics for quantitative analysis of energy metabolites technology was used to detect the characteristics of energy metabolism for 8 ALF patients and 8 normal volunteers. The ALF mice model was intervened with HDAC6 inhibitor ACY-1215. iTRAQ/TMT quantitative proteomics was used to detect protein expression in livers in different mice groups. The liver function, energy metabolites, M1 macrophages, cytokines, and pathological structure, DDX3X, NLRP3 and DNMT1 in liver tissue were detected. The changes of the above molecules were verified in cell groups. Results ALF patients and mice have significant energy metabolism disorders, accompanied by activation of M1 macrophages. After the intervention of ACY-1215, the activated M1 macrophages and cytokines levels in the mouse liver were reduced. The levels of IDH1, MDH1, and ATP were significantly increased. The expression of DDX3X increased, while the expression of NLRP3 and DNMT1 decreased. ACY-1215 could reduce the model cell apoptosis level and inflammatory response, and improve energy metabolism. It could also promote the expression of DDX3X, and inhibit the expression of NLRP3 and DNMT1. Conclusion ACY-1215 could inhibit the activation of M1 macrophages by improving the glycolytic pathway through regulating DNMT1 and DDX3X/NLRP3 signals to alleviate ALF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Xun Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangzhou Jiao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunxia Shi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Maohua Pei
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Luwen Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Zuojiong Gong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
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41
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The Therapeutic Potential of Epigenome-Modifying Drugs in Cardiometabolic Disease. CURRENT GENETIC MEDICINE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40142-021-00198-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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42
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Lai J, Fu Y, Tian S, Huang S, Luo X, Lin L, Zhang X, Wang H, Lin Z, Zhao H, Lin S, Zhao J, Xu S, Li D, Cai S, Dong L, Qian J, Liang J, Li Q, Zhang Y, Fan J, Balderas R, Chen Q. Zebularine elevates STING expression and enhances cGAMP cancer immunotherapy in mice. Mol Ther 2021; 29:1758-1771. [PMID: 33571681 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation abnormality is closely related to tumor occurrence and development. Chemical inhibitors targeting DNA methyltransferase (DNMTis) have been used in treating cancer. However, the impact of DNMTis on antitumor immunity has not been well elucidated. In this study, we show that zebularine (a demethylating agent) treatment of cancer cells led to increased levels of interferon response in a cyclic guanosine monophosphate-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS)- and stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-dependent manner. This treatment also specifically sensitized the cGAS-STING pathway in response to DNA stimulation. Incorporation of zebularine into genomic DNA caused demethylation and elevated expression of a group of genes, including STING. Without causing DNA damage, zebularine led to accumulation of DNA species in the cytoplasm of treated cells. In syngeneic tumor models, administration of zebularine alone reduced tumor burden and extended mice survival. This effect synergized with cGAMP and immune checkpoint blockade therapy. The efficacy of zebularine was abolished in nude mice and in cGAS-/- or STING-/- mice, indicating its dependency on host immunity. Analysis of tumor cells indicates upregulation of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) following zebularine administration. Zebularine promoted infiltration of CD8 T cells and natural killer (NK) cells into tumor and therefore suppressed tumor growth. This study unveils the role of zebularine in sensitizing the cGAS-STING pathway to promote anti-tumor immunity and provides the foundation for further therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junzhong Lai
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China; The Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Yajuan Fu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shuoran Tian
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shanlu Huang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Xuan Luo
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Lili Lin
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Hanze Wang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Zhang Lin
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Heng Zhao
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shujin Lin
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Junhong Zhao
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shan Xu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Daliang Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Shaoli Cai
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Luna Dong
- BD Biosciences Shanghai, New Bund World Trade Center III, Building B, No. 11, Lane 221, Dongyu Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 200126, China
| | - Jing Qian
- BD Biosciences Shanghai, New Bund World Trade Center III, Building B, No. 11, Lane 221, Dongyu Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 200126, China
| | - Jiadi Liang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Qiumei Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | - Jiqiang Fan
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China
| | | | - Qi Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, China; Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350117, China.
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Fathi E, Farahzadi R, Montazersaheb S, Bagheri Y. Epigenetic Modifications in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: From Cellular Mechanisms to Therapeutics. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 21:60-71. [PMID: 33183201 DOI: 10.2174/1566523220999201111194554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic modification pattern is considered as a characteristic feature in blood malignancies. Modifications in the DNA methylation modulators are recurrent in lymphoma and leukemia, so that the distinct methylation pattern defines different types of leukemia. Generally, the role of epigenetics is less understood, and most investigations are focused on genetic abnormalities and cytogenic studies to develop novel treatments for patients with hematologic disorders. Recently, understanding the underlying mechanism of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), especially epigenetic alterations as a driving force in the development of ALL opens a new era of investigation for developing promising strategy, beyond available conventional therapy. OBJECTIVE This review will focus on a better understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms in cancer development and progression, with an emphasis on epigenetic alterations in ALL including, DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA alterations. Other topics that will be discussed include the use of epigenetic alterations as a promising therapeutic target in order to develop novel, well-suited approaches against ALL. CONCLUSION According to the literature review, leukemogenesis of ALL is extensively influenced by epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA hyper-methylation, histone modification, and miRNA alteration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezzatollah Fathi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Raheleh Farahzadi
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Soheila Montazersaheb
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yasin Bagheri
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
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HDAC inhibition prevents transgene expression downregulation and loss-of-function in T-cell-receptor-transduced T cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY-ONCOLYTICS 2021; 20:352-363. [PMID: 33614916 PMCID: PMC7878989 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
T cells that are gene-modified with tumor-specific T cell receptors are a promising treatment for metastatic melanoma patients. In a clinical trial, we treated seven metastatic melanoma patients with autologous T cells transduced to express a tyrosinase-reactive T cell receptor (TCR) (TIL 1383I) and a truncated CD34 molecule as a selection marker. We followed transgene expression in the TCR-transduced T cells after infusion and observed that both lentiviral- and retroviral-transduced T cells lost transgene expression over time, so that by 4 weeks post-transfer, few T cells expressed either lentiviral or retroviral transgenes. Transgene expression was reactivated by stimulation with anti-CD3/anti-CD28 beads and cytokines. TCR-transduced T cell lentiviral and retroviral transgene expression was also downregulated in vitro when T cells were cultured without cytokines. Transduced T cells cultured with interleukin (IL)-15 maintained transgene expression. Culturing gene-modified T cells in the presence of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors maintained transgene expression and functional TCR-transduced T cell responses to tumor. These results implicate epigenetic processes in the loss of transgene expression in lentiviral- and retroviral-transduced T cells.
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Low-dose decitabine priming endows CAR T cells with enhanced and persistent antitumour potential via epigenetic reprogramming. Nat Commun 2021; 12:409. [PMID: 33462245 PMCID: PMC7814040 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20696-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Insufficient eradication capacity and dysfunction are common occurrences in T cells that characterize cancer immunotherapy failure. De novo DNA methylation promotes T cell exhaustion, whereas methylation inhibition enhances T cell rejuvenation in vivo. Decitabine, a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor approved for clinical use, may provide a means of modifying exhaustion-associated DNA methylation programmes. Herein, anti-tumour activities, cytokine production, and proliferation are enhanced in decitabine-treated chimeric antigen receptor T (dCAR T) cells both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, dCAR T cells can eradicate bulky tumours at a low-dose and establish effective recall responses upon tumour rechallenge. Antigen-expressing tumour cells trigger higher expression levels of memory-, proliferation- and cytokine production-associated genes in dCAR T cells. Tumour-infiltrating dCAR T cells retain a relatively high expression of memory-related genes and low expression of exhaustion-related genes in vivo. In vitro administration of decitabine may represent an option for the generation of CAR T cells with improved anti-tumour properties.
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Histone Lysine-to-Methionine Mutation as Anticancer Drug Target. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1283:85-96. [PMID: 33155140 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-8104-5_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Histone modification stands for a vital genetic information form, which shows tight correlation with the modulation of normal physiological activities by genes. Abnormal regulation of histone methylation due to histone modification enzyme changes and histone mutations plays an important role in the development of cancer. Histone mutations, especially H3K27M and H3K36M, have been identified in various cancers such as pediatric DIPG (diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma) and chondroblastoma respectively. "K to M" mutation results overall downregulation of methylation on these lysine residues. Also, "K to M" mutant histones can inhibit the enzymatic activity of the responsible HMT (histone methyltransferase); for instance, SETD2 indicates H3K36 methylation, and Ezh2 represents H3K27 methylation. In-depth analysis of the mechanism of tumor formation triggered by the K to M mutation results in possible targeted therapies. This chapter is going to briefly introduce the mechanism of histone lysine-to-methionine mutation and review the recently identified targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Yan Z, Yao S, Liu Y, Zhang J, Li P, Wang H, Chu J, Zhao S, Yao Z. Durable Response to Sintilimab and Chidamide in a Patient With Pegaspargase- and Immunotherapy-Resistant NK/T-Cell Lymphoma: Case Report and Literature Review. Front Oncol 2020; 10:608304. [PMID: 33363038 PMCID: PMC7759664 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.608304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The prognosis of patients with relapsed/refractory NK/T-cell lymphoma (NKTCL) is dismal. Immunotherapy has showed encouraging anti-tumor activity in patients with asparaginase-resistant NKTCL; however, only a portion of patients benefit and the median response duration is rather short. Treatment strategies have not been identified for immunotherapy-resistant NKTCL. We describe a patient with primary cutaneous NKTCL experienced disease progression after pegaspargase-based chemotherapy and PD-1 inhibitor (sintilimab)-based immunotherapy. Following a combined treatment of sintilimab and the HDAC inhibitor chidamide, the patient achieved a durable complete molecular response with mild toxicity. This case indicates that the combination of PD-1 inhibitor and HDAC inhibitor might be a treatment choice for immunotherapy-resistant NKTCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Yan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuna Yao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jianbo Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Peng Li
- The PET-CT Center of Henan Province, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Haiying Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Junfeng Chu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuang Zhao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhihua Yao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
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Combinatorial Epigenetic and Immunotherapy in Breast Cancer Management: A Literature Review. EPIGENOMES 2020; 4:epigenomes4040027. [PMID: 34968306 PMCID: PMC8594694 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes4040027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among cancer patients worldwide. To date, there are several drugs that have been developed for breast cancer therapy. In the 21st century, immunotherapy is considered a pioneering method for improving the management of malignancies; however, breast cancer is an exception. According to the immunoediting model, many immunosuppressive cells contribute to immunological quiescence. Therefore, there is an urgent need to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of breast cancer treatments. In the last few years, numerous combinatorial therapies involving immune checkpoint blockade have been demonstrated that effectively improve clinical outcomes in breast cancer and combining these with methods of targeting epigenetic regulators is also an innovative strategy. Nevertheless, few studies have discussed the benefits of epi-drugs in non-cancerous cells. In this review, we give a brief overview of ongoing clinical trials involving combinatorial immunotherapy with epi-drugs in breast cancer and discuss the role of epi-drugs in the tumor microenvironment, including the results of recent research.
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Sepe P, Mennitto A, Corti F, Procopio G. Immunotherapeutic Targets and Therapy for Renal Cell Carcinoma. Immunotargets Ther 2020; 9:273-288. [PMID: 33224904 PMCID: PMC7671463 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s240889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last 20 years, different therapies have been considered as the mainstay for the treatment of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Since angiogenesis is a key mechanism in the pathogenesis of renal carcinoma, research is still focusing on the inhibition of new vessel growth through the development of novel and potent tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), such as cabozantinib. On the other hand, a new therapeutic scenario has opened up in the forefront with immunotherapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which already represent a standard treatment option in pretreated mRCC patients, are revolutionizing the frontline therapeutic armamentarium of mRCC. Upfront combination immunotherapy as well as combinations of immunotherapy with targeted agents showed to significantly improved outcomes of mRCC patients compared to single-agent TKIs. ICIs are associated with long-lasting responses. Nonetheless, several unmet needs remain, as a small proportion of patients shows primary refractoriness to immunotherapy. Multiple treatment strategies combining different mechanisms of action or targeting immune escape pathways are emerging with the aim to improve response rates and survival outcomes. This review summarizes current immunotherapeutic targets and therapies approved for mRCC, while examining mechanisms of resistance and future directions, with the aim to address novel treatment strategies and help in improving the management of this tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierangela Sepe
- Genitourinary Cancer Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Mennitto
- Genitourinary Cancer Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Corti
- Genitourinary Cancer Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Procopio
- Genitourinary Cancer Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Rausch M, Weiss A, Zoetemelk M, Piersma SR, Jimenez CR, van Beijnum JR, Nowak-Sliwinska P. Optimized Combination of HDACI and TKI Efficiently Inhibits Metabolic Activity in Renal Cell Carcinoma and Overcomes Sunitinib Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3172. [PMID: 33126775 PMCID: PMC7693411 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is characterized by high histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity triggering both cell motility and the development of metastasis. Therefore, there is an unmet need to establish innovative strategies to advance the use of HDAC inhibitors (HDACIs). We selected a set of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and HDACIs to test them in combination, using the validated therapeutically guided multidrug optimization (TGMO) technique based on experimental testing and in silico data modeling. We determined a synergistic low-dose three-drug combination decreasing the cell metabolic activity in metastatic ccRCC cells, Caki-1, by over 80%. This drug combination induced apoptosis and showed anti-angiogenic activity, both in original Caki-1 and in sunitinib-resistant Caki-1 cells. Through phosphoproteomic analysis, we revealed additional targets to improve the translation of this combination in 3-D (co-)culture systems. Cell-cell and cell-environment interactions increased, reverting the invasive and metastatic phenotype of Caki-1 cells. Our data suggest that our optimized low-dose drug combination is highly effective in complex in vitro settings and promotes the activity of HDACIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Rausch
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (M.R.); (A.W.); (M.Z.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Weiss
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (M.R.); (A.W.); (M.Z.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marloes Zoetemelk
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (M.R.); (A.W.); (M.Z.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sander R. Piersma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117 Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
- OncoProteomics Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1117 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Connie R. Jimenez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117 Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
- OncoProteomics Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1117 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judy R. van Beijnum
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC-Location VUmc, VU University Amsterdam, 1117 Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Patrycja Nowak-Sliwinska
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (M.R.); (A.W.); (M.Z.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
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