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de Traux de Wardin H, Dermawan JK, Merlin MS, Wexler LH, Orbach D, Vanoli F, Schleiermacher G, Geoerger B, Ballet S, Guillemot D, Frouin E, Cyrille S, Delattre O, Pierron G, Antonescu CR. Sequential genomic analysis using a multisample/multiplatform approach to better define rhabdomyosarcoma progression and relapse. NPJ Precis Oncol 2023; 7:96. [PMID: 37730754 PMCID: PMC10511463 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-023-00445-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The genomic spectrum of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) progression from primary to relapse is not fully understood. In this pilot study, we explore the sensitivity of various targeted and whole-genome NGS platforms in order to assess the best genomic approach of using liquid biopsy in future prospective clinical trials. Moreover, we investigate 35 paired primary/relapsed RMS from two contributing institutions, 18 fusion-positive (FP-RMS) and 17 fusion-negative RMS (FN-RMS) by either targeted DNA or whole exome sequencing (WES). In 10 cases, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from multiple timepoints through clinical care and progression was analyzed for feasibility of liquid biopsy in monitoring treatment response/relapse. ctDNA alterations were evaluated using a targeted 36-gene custom RMS panel at high coverage for single-nucleotide variation and fusion detection, and a shallow whole-genome sequencing for copy number variation. FP-RMS have a stable genome with relapse, with common secondary alterations CDKN2A/B, MYCN, and CDK4 present at diagnosis and impacting survival. FP-RMS lacking major secondary events at baseline acquire recurrent MYCN and AKT1 alterations. FN-RMS acquire a higher number of new alterations, most commonly SMARCA2 missense mutations. ctDNA analyses detect pathognomonic variants in all RMS patients within our collection at diagnosis, regardless of type of alterations, and confirmed at relapse in 86% of FP-RMS and 100% FN-RMS. Moreover, a higher number of fusion reads is detected with increased disease burden and at relapse in patients following a fatal outcome. These results underscore patterns of tumor progression and provide rationale for using liquid biopsy to monitor treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry de Traux de Wardin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Unit of Somatic Genetics, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Josephine K Dermawan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marie-Sophie Merlin
- University of Lorraine, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire (CHRU), Childrens' Hospital, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Leonard H Wexler
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Orbach
- SIREDO Oncology Center (Care, Innovation and Research for Children, Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer), PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Fabio Vanoli
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gudrun Schleiermacher
- SIREDO Oncology Center (Care, Innovation and Research for Children, Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer), PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
- U830 INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Birgit Geoerger
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, 94805, France
| | - Stelly Ballet
- Unit of Somatic Genetics, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Stacy Cyrille
- Department of Biometrics, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Delattre
- SIREDO Oncology Center (Care, Innovation and Research for Children, Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer), PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
- U830 INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Gaelle Pierron
- Unit of Somatic Genetics, Institut Curie, Paris, France.
| | - Cristina R Antonescu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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2
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Shulman DS, Merriam P, Choy E, Guenther LM, Cavanaugh KL, Kao P, Posner A, Bhushan K, Fairchild G, Barker E, Klega K, Stegmaier K, Crompton BD, London WB, DuBois SG. Phase 2 trial of palbociclib and ganitumab in patients with relapsed Ewing sarcoma. Cancer Med 2023; 12:15207-15216. [PMID: 37306107 PMCID: PMC10417097 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ewing sarcoma (EWS) is an aggressive sarcoma with few treatment options for patients with relapsed disease. Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) is a genomic vulnerability in EWS that is synergistic with IGF-1R inhibition in preclinical studies. We present the results of a phase 2 study combining palbociclib (CDK4/6 inhibitor) with ganitumab (IGF-1R monoclonal antibody) for patients with relapsed EWS. PATIENTS AND METHODS This open-label, non-randomized, phase 2 trial enrolled patients ≥12 years with relapsed EWS. All patients had molecular confirmation of EWS and RECIST measurable disease. Patients initially received palbociclib 125 mg orally on Days 1-21 and ganitumab 18 mg/kg intravenously on Days 1 and 15 of a 28-day cycle. The primary endpoints were objective response (complete or partial) per RECIST and toxicity by CTCAE. An exact one-stage design required ≥4 responders out of 15 to evaluate an alternative hypothesis of 40% response rate against a null of 10%. The study was closed following enrollment of the 10th patient due to discontinuation of ganitumab supply. RESULTS Ten evaluable patients enrolled [median age 25.7 years (range 12.3-40.1)]. The median duration of therapy was 2.5 months (range 0.9-10.8). There were no complete or partial responders. Three of 10 patients had stable disease for >4 cycles and 2 had stable disease at completion of planned therapy or study closure. Six-month progression-free survival was 30% (95% CI 1.6%-58.4%). Two patients had cycle 1 hematologic dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) triggering palbociclib dose reduction to 100 mg daily for 21 days. Two subsequent patients had cycle 1 hematologic DLTs at the reduced dose. Eighty percent of patients had grade 3/4 AEs, including neutropenia (n = 8), white blood cell decreased (n = 7), and thrombocytopenia (n = 5). Serum total IGF-1 significantly increased (p = 0.013) and ctDNA decreased during the first cycle. CONCLUSIONS This combination lacks adequate therapeutic activity for further study, though a subset of patients had prolonged stable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S. Shulman
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Priscilla Merriam
- Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Edwin Choy
- Massachusetts General HospitalMassachusetts General Hospital Cancer CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Kerri L. Cavanaugh
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Pei‐Chi Kao
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Andrew Posner
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Ketki Bhushan
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Grace Fairchild
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Emma Barker
- Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Kelly Klega
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Kimberly Stegmaier
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Brian D. Crompton
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Wendy B. London
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Steven G. DuBois
- Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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3
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Hovsepyan S, Giani C, Pasquali S, Di Giannatale A, Chiaravalli S, Colombo C, Orbach D, Bergamaschi L, Vennarini S, Gatz SA, Gasparini P, Berlanga P, Casanova M, Ferrari A. Desmoplastic small round cell tumor: from state of the art to future clinical prospects. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2023; 23:471-484. [PMID: 37017324 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2023.2200171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is an extremely rare and highly aggressive soft tissue sarcoma, presenting mainly in male adolescents and young adults with multiple nodules disseminated within the abdominopelvic cavity. Despite a multimodal approach including aggressive cytoreductive surgery, intensive multi-agent chemotherapy, and postoperative whole abdominopelvic radiotherapy, the prognosis for DSRCT remains dismal. Median progression-free survival ranges between 4 and 21 months, and overall survival between 17 and 60 months, with the 5-year overall survival rate in the range of 10-20%. AREA COVERED This review discusses the treatment strategies used for DSRCT over the years, the state of the art of current treatments, and future clinical prospects. EXPERT OPINION The unsatisfactory outcomes for patients with DSRCT warrant investigations into innovative treatment combinations. An international multidisciplinary and multi-stakeholder collaboration, involving both pediatric and adult sarcoma communities, is needed to propel preclinical model generation and drug development, and innovative clinical trial designs to enable the timely testing of treatments involving novel agents guided by biology to boost the chances of survival for patients with this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shushan Hovsepyan
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Pediatric Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Armenia, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Claudia Giani
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Pasquali
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Applied Research and Technological Development, Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
- Sarcoma Service, Department of Surgery, Department of Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Di Giannatale
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Hematology/Oncology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Stefano Chiaravalli
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Colombo
- Sarcoma Service, Department of Surgery, Department of Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniel Orbach
- SIREDO Oncology Center, Institut Curie, PSL University, Paris, France
| | - Luca Bergamaschi
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Applied Research and Technological Development, Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Sabina Vennarini
- Pediatric Radiotherapy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Susanne Andrea Gatz
- Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Patrizia Gasparini
- Tumor Genomics Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Pablo Berlanga
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave-Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Michela Casanova
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Ferrari
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
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Anderson P, Ghisoli M, Crompton BD, Klega KS, Wexler LH, Slotkin EK, Stanbery L, Manning L, Wallraven G, Manley M, Horvath S, Bognar E, Nemunaitis J. Pilot Study of Recurrent Ewing's Sarcoma Management with Vigil/Temozolomide/Irinotecan and Assessment of Circulating Tumor (ct) DNA. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:1689-1697. [PMID: 36780200 PMCID: PMC10150239 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-22-2292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Treatment options for recurrent or refractory Ewing's sarcoma (ES) are limited. Vigil is a novel autologous tumor cell therapy expressing bi-shRNA furin/GMCSF plasmid, which previously demonstrated monotherapy activity in advanced ES. Herein we report safety and evidence of benefit to Vigil for ES as potential treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this pilot trial, eligible patients with recurrent or refractory ES who failed initial standard-of-care therapy received treatment with temozolomide (TEM) 100 mg/m2/day oral and irinotecan (IRI) 50 mg/m2/day oral, Days 1 to 5, in combination with Vigil (1 × 106-107 cells/mL/day intradermal, Day 15), every 21 days (Vigil/TEM/IRI). Objective response rate (ORR) by RECIST v1.1, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were assessed. Circulating tumor (ct) DNA analysis was done by patient-specific droplet digital PCR on baseline and serially collected on-treatment samples. RESULTS Eight of 10 enrolled patients were evaluable for safety and efficacy (mean age 24.6; 12.6-46.1 years old); 2 did not receive Vigil. Seven of 8 patients previously received TEM/IRI. No Vigil-related adverse events were reported. Common ≥Grade 3 chemotherapy-related toxicity included neutropenia (50%) and thrombocytopenia (38%). We observed two partial response patients by RECIST; both showed histologic complete response without additional cancer therapy. Median PFS was 8.2 months (95% confidence interval, 4.3-NA). Five patients showed stable disease or better for ≥6 months. Patient-specific EWS/FLI1 ctDNA was detectable in all 8 evaluable patients at baseline. Changes in ctDNA levels corresponded to changes in disease burden. CONCLUSIONS Results demonstrated safety of combination Vigil/TEM/IRI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Leonard H. Wexler
- MSK KIDS, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Emily K. Slotkin
- MSK KIDS, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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Chellini L, Palombo R, Riccioni V, Paronetto MP. Oncogenic Dysregulation of Circulating Noncoding RNAs: Novel Challenges and Opportunities in Sarcoma Diagnosis and Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194677. [PMID: 36230599 PMCID: PMC9562196 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194677] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Body fluids contain different classes of RNA molecules such as protein-coding messenger RNAs (mRNA) and noncoding RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs). These circulating RNAs can travel naked or packed into extracellular vesicles and display valuable potential as non-invasive biomarkers of sarcoma malignancy. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the possible functions of these circulating RNAs and discuss their possible exploitation as novel markers to improve sarcoma diagnosis and prognosis. Despite the recent advance in technological tools have improved protocols for the extraction and detection of circulating RNA, many aspects related to the biology of these molecules remain to be elucidated. In particular, the lack of standardization in the assessment of these markers makes difficult their adoption into clinical practice. Abstract Sarcomas comprise a heterogeneous group of rare mesenchymal malignancies. Sarcomas can be grouped into two categories characterized by different prognosis and treatment approaches: soft tissue sarcoma and primary bone sarcoma. In the last years, research on novel diagnostic, prognostic or predictive biomarkers in sarcoma management has been focused on circulating tumor-derived molecules as valuable tools. Liquid biopsies that measure various tumor components, including circulating cell-free DNA and RNA, circulating tumor cells, tumor extracellular vesicles and exosomes, are gaining attention as methods for molecular screening and early diagnosis. Compared with traditional tissue biopsies, liquid biopsies are minimally invasive and blood samples can be collected serially over time to monitor cancer progression. This review will focus on circulating noncoding RNA molecules from liquid biopsies that are dysregulated in sarcoma malignancies and discuss advantages and current limitations of their employment as biomarkers in the management of sarcomas. It will also explore their utility in the evaluation of the clinical response to treatments and of disease relapse. Moreover, it will explore state-of-the-art techniques that allow for the early detection of these circulating biomarkers. Despite the huge potential, current reports highlight poor sensitivity, specificity, and survival benefit of these methods, that are therefore still insufficient for routine screening purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Chellini
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Ramona Palombo
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00143 Rome, Italy
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Roma “Foro Italico”, Piazza Lauro de Bosis, 15, 00135 Rome, Italy
| | - Veronica Riccioni
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Paronetto
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00143 Rome, Italy
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Roma “Foro Italico”, Piazza Lauro de Bosis, 15, 00135 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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An international working group consensus report for the prioritization of molecular biomarkers for Ewing sarcoma. NPJ Precis Oncol 2022; 6:65. [PMID: 36115869 PMCID: PMC9482616 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-022-00307-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The advent of dose intensified interval compressed therapy has improved event-free survival for patients with localized Ewing sarcoma (EwS) to 78% at 5 years. However, nearly a quarter of patients with localized tumors and 60–80% of patients with metastatic tumors suffer relapse and die of disease. In addition, those who survive are often left with debilitating late effects. Clinical features aside from stage have proven inadequate to meaningfully classify patients for risk-stratified therapy. Therefore, there is a critical need to develop approaches to risk stratify patients with EwS based on molecular features. Over the past decade, new technology has enabled the study of multiple molecular biomarkers in EwS. Preliminary evidence requiring validation supports copy number changes, and loss of function mutations in tumor suppressor genes as biomarkers of outcome in EwS. Initial studies of circulating tumor DNA demonstrated that diagnostic ctDNA burden and ctDNA clearance during induction are also associated with outcome. In addition, fusion partner should be a pre-requisite for enrollment on EwS clinical trials, and the fusion type and structure require further study to determine prognostic impact. These emerging biomarkers represent a new horizon in our understanding of disease risk and will enable future efforts to develop risk-adapted treatment.
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7
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Stegmaier S, Sparber-Sauer M, Aakcha-Rudel E, Münch P, Reeh T, Feuchtgruber S, Hallmen E, Blattmann C, Bielack S, Klingebiel T, Koscielniak E. Fusion transcripts as liquid biopsy markers in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma and synovial sarcoma: A report of the Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe (CWS). Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29652. [PMID: 35338758 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The possible application of gene fusion transcripts as tumor-specific noninvasive liquid biopsy biomarkers was investigated in blood plasma from patients with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) and synovial sarcoma (SS). METHODS Patients entered in the CWS Soft-Tissue Sarcoma Registry (SoTiSaR) with tumors positive for fusion genes and available blood/plasma samples were included in our analysis. Cell-free exosomal RNA was extracted and used to detect PAX-FOXO1 or SYT-SSX fusion transcripts by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). RESULTS The analysis included 112 ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid blood samples from 80 patients (65 with ARMS, 15 with SS; 34 with localized, 46 with metastatic disease). For patients with metastatic ARMS, 62% (n = 18) of initial liquid biopsies were positive, and 16 (89%) of them showed initial bone marrow (BM) metastases. For all patients with primary localized ARMS, liquid biopsy was negative at diagnosis. Of the 48 plasma samples collected during therapy and follow-up, five were positive. None of the liquid biopsies from patients with SS were positive. CONCLUSIONS This liquid biopsy assay based on the detection of fusion transcripts in cell-free RNA from blood exosomes is suitable for analysis of patients with ARMS. Results showed good correlation with the initial tumor status; liquid biopsy was positive in 94% of patients with metastatic ARMS and initial BM involvement, whereas biopsies from all patients with localized tumors were negative. Prospective validation and optimization of the assay, as well as its application for other markers in diagnostics and monitoring of soft-tissue sarcoma, are ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Stegmaier
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Monika Sparber-Sauer
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany.,University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Esther Aakcha-Rudel
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Petra Münch
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Theresa Reeh
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Simone Feuchtgruber
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Erika Hallmen
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Claudia Blattmann
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Stefan Bielack
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany.,Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Thomas Klingebiel
- Department for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Frankfurt/M, Germany
| | - Ewa Koscielniak
- Olgahospital, Zentrum für Kinder- Jugend und Frauenmedizin, Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology), Stuttgart, Germany.,University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
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8
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Seidel MG, Kashofer K, Moser T, Thueringer A, Liegl-Atzwanger B, Leithner A, Szkandera J, Benesch M, El-Heliebi A, Heitzer E. Clinical implementation of plasma cell-free circulating tumor DNA quantification by digital droplet PCR for the monitoring of Ewing sarcoma in children and adolescents. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:926405. [PMID: 36046479 PMCID: PMC9420963 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.926405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment stratification and response assessment in pediatric sarcomas has relied on imaging studies and surgical/histopathological evidence of vital tumor cells. Such studies and evidence collection processes often involve radiation and/or general anesthesia in children. Cell-free circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) detection in blood plasma is one available method of so-called liquid biopsies that has been shown to correlate qualitatively and quantitatively with the existence of vital tumor cells in the body. Our clinical observational study focused on the utility and feasibility of ctDNA detection in pediatric Ewing sarcoma (EWS) as a marker of minimal residual disease (MRD). PATIENTS AND METHODS We performed whole genome sequencing (WGS) to identify the exact breakpoints in tumors known to carry the EWS-FLI1 fusion gene. Patient-specific fusion breakpoints were tracked in peripheral blood plasma using digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) before, during, and after therapy in six children and young adults with EWS. Presence and levels of fusion breakpoints were correlated with clinical disease courses. RESULTS We show that the detection of ctDNA in the peripheral blood of EWS patients (i) is feasible in the clinical routine and (ii) allows for the longitudinal real-time monitoring of MRD activity in children and young adults. Although changing ctDNA levels correlated well with clinical outcome within patients, between patients, a high variability was observed (inter-individually). CONCLUSION ctDNA detection by ddPCR is a highly sensitive, specific, feasible, and highly accurate method that can be applied in EWS for follow-up assessments as an additional surrogate parameter for clinical MRD monitoring and, potentially, also for treatment stratification in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus G Seidel
- Division for Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Karl Kashofer
- Diagnostic and Research Center for Molecular BioMedicine, Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Tina Moser
- Diagnostic and Research Center for Molecular BioMedicine, Diagnostic and Research Institute of Human Genetics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Liquid Biopsies for Early Detection of Cancer, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Andrea Thueringer
- Diagnostic and Research Center for Molecular BioMedicine, Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Bernadette Liegl-Atzwanger
- Diagnostic and Research Center for Molecular BioMedicine, Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Leithner
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Joanna Szkandera
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Martin Benesch
- Division for Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Amin El-Heliebi
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.,Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Center for Biomarker Research in Medicine (CBmed), Graz, Austria
| | - Ellen Heitzer
- Diagnostic and Research Center for Molecular BioMedicine, Diagnostic and Research Institute of Human Genetics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Liquid Biopsies for Early Detection of Cancer, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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9
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van der Laan P, van Houdt WJ, van den Broek D, Steeghs N, van der Graaf WTA. Liquid Biopsies in Sarcoma Clinical Practice: Where Do We Stand? Biomedicines 2021; 9:1315. [PMID: 34680432 PMCID: PMC8533081 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are rare tumors of bone and soft tissue with a mesenchymal origin. This uncommon type of cancer is marked by a high heterogeneity, consisting of over 70 subtypes. Because of this broad spectrum, their treatment requires a subtype-specific therapeutic approach. Tissue biopsy is currently the golden standard for sarcoma diagnosis, but it has its limitations. Over the recent years, methods to detect, characterize, and monitor cancer through liquid biopsy have evolved rapidly. The analysis of circulating biomarkers in peripheral blood, such as circulating tumor cells (CTC) or circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), could provide real-time information on tumor genetics, disease state, and resistance mechanisms. Furthermore, it traces tumor evolution and can assess tumor heterogeneity. Although the first results in sarcomas are encouraging, there are technical challenges that need to be addressed for implementation in clinical practice. Here, we summarize current knowledge about liquid biopsies in sarcomas and elaborate on different strategies to integrate liquid biopsy into sarcoma clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia van der Laan
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (P.v.d.L.); (W.J.v.H.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Winan J. van Houdt
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (P.v.d.L.); (W.J.v.H.)
| | - Daan van den Broek
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Neeltje Steeghs
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Winette T. A. van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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10
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Kothari P, Sauerhaft T, Bouvier N, Rodriguez-Sanchez MI, Shia J, Price A, Morjaria S, Gerstle JT, Shukla NN, Ortiz MV. Identification of a TP53 Deletion in an Undifferentiated Embryonal Sarcoma of the Liver Provides Clinically Relevant Longitudinal Detection of Circulating Tumor DNA. JCO Precis Oncol 2021; 5:PO.21.00102. [PMID: 34527851 PMCID: PMC8437221 DOI: 10.1200/po.21.00102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Prachi Kothari
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Talia Sauerhaft
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Nancy Bouvier
- Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | | | - Jinru Shia
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Anita Price
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Sejal Morjaria
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - J Theodore Gerstle
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Neerav N Shukla
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Michael V Ortiz
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
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11
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Peneder P, Stütz AM, Surdez D, Krumbholz M, Semper S, Chicard M, Sheffield NC, Pierron G, Lapouble E, Tötzl M, Ergüner B, Barreca D, Rendeiro AF, Agaimy A, Boztug H, Engstler G, Dworzak M, Bernkopf M, Taschner-Mandl S, Ambros IM, Myklebost O, Marec-Bérard P, Burchill SA, Brennan B, Strauss SJ, Whelan J, Schleiermacher G, Schaefer C, Dirksen U, Hutter C, Boye K, Ambros PF, Delattre O, Metzler M, Bock C, Tomazou EM. Multimodal analysis of cell-free DNA whole-genome sequencing for pediatric cancers with low mutational burden. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3230. [PMID: 34050156 PMCID: PMC8163828 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23445-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sequencing of cell-free DNA in the blood of cancer patients (liquid biopsy) provides attractive opportunities for early diagnosis, assessment of treatment response, and minimally invasive disease monitoring. To unlock liquid biopsy analysis for pediatric tumors with few genetic aberrations, we introduce an integrated genetic/epigenetic analysis method and demonstrate its utility on 241 deep whole-genome sequencing profiles of 95 patients with Ewing sarcoma and 31 patients with other pediatric sarcomas. Our method achieves sensitive detection and classification of circulating tumor DNA in peripheral blood independent of any genetic alterations. Moreover, we benchmark different metrics for cell-free DNA fragmentation analysis, and we introduce the LIQUORICE algorithm for detecting circulating tumor DNA based on cancer-specific chromatin signatures. Finally, we combine several fragmentation-based metrics into an integrated machine learning classifier for liquid biopsy analysis that exploits widespread epigenetic deregulation and is tailored to cancers with low mutation rates. Clinical associations highlight the potential value of cfDNA fragmentation patterns as prognostic biomarkers in Ewing sarcoma. In summary, our study provides a comprehensive analysis of circulating tumor DNA beyond recurrent genetic aberrations, and it renders the benefits of liquid biopsy more readily accessible for childhood cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Peneder
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Adrian M Stütz
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Didier Surdez
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie Research Centre, Paris, France
- Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Krumbholz
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sabine Semper
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Mathieu Chicard
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie Research Centre, Paris, France
| | - Nathan C Sheffield
- Center for Public Health Genomics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Gaelle Pierron
- Unité de Génétique Somatique, Service d'oncogénétique, Institut Curie, Centre Hospitalier, Paris, France
| | - Eve Lapouble
- Unité de Génétique Somatique, Service d'oncogénétique, Institut Curie, Centre Hospitalier, Paris, France
| | - Marcus Tötzl
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Bekir Ergüner
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniele Barreca
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - André F Rendeiro
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Abbas Agaimy
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Heidrun Boztug
- St. Anna Kinderspital, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gernot Engstler
- St. Anna Kinderspital, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Dworzak
- St. Anna Kinderspital, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marie Bernkopf
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Inge M Ambros
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Ola Myklebost
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Perrine Marec-Bérard
- Pediatric Department, Hematology and Oncology Pediatric Institute, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Susan Ann Burchill
- Children's Cancer Research Group, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Bernadette Brennan
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Sandra J Strauss
- Department of Oncology, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
- Department of Oncology, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jeremy Whelan
- Department of Oncology, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Gudrun Schleiermacher
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie Research Centre, Paris, France
| | - Christiane Schaefer
- University Hospital Essen, Pediatrics III, West German Cancer Centre, Essen, Germany
| | - Uta Dirksen
- University Hospital Essen, Pediatrics III, West German Cancer Centre, Essen, Germany
| | - Caroline Hutter
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
- St. Anna Kinderspital, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kjetil Boye
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Peter F Ambros
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Olivier Delattre
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie Research Centre, Paris, France
- Unité de Génétique Somatique, Service d'oncogénétique, Institut Curie, Centre Hospitalier, Paris, France
| | - Markus Metzler
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Bock
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria.
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Eleni M Tomazou
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria.
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12
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Zöllner SK, Amatruda JF, Bauer S, Collaud S, de Álava E, DuBois SG, Hardes J, Hartmann W, Kovar H, Metzler M, Shulman DS, Streitbürger A, Timmermann B, Toretsky JA, Uhlenbruch Y, Vieth V, Grünewald TGP, Dirksen U. Ewing Sarcoma-Diagnosis, Treatment, Clinical Challenges and Future Perspectives. J Clin Med 2021; 10:1685. [PMID: 33919988 PMCID: PMC8071040 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma, a highly aggressive bone and soft-tissue cancer, is considered a prime example of the paradigms of a translocation-positive sarcoma: a genetically rather simple disease with a specific and neomorphic-potential therapeutic target, whose oncogenic role was irrefutably defined decades ago. This is a disease that by definition has micrometastatic disease at diagnosis and a dismal prognosis for patients with macrometastatic or recurrent disease. International collaborations have defined the current standard of care in prospective studies, delivering multiple cycles of systemic therapy combined with local treatment; both are associated with significant morbidity that may result in strong psychological and physical burden for survivors. Nevertheless, the combination of non-directed chemotherapeutics and ever-evolving local modalities nowadays achieve a realistic chance of cure for the majority of patients with Ewing sarcoma. In this review, we focus on the current standard of diagnosis and treatment while attempting to answer some of the most pressing questions in clinical practice. In addition, this review provides scientific answers to clinical phenomena and occasionally defines the resulting translational studies needed to overcome the hurdle of treatment-associated morbidities and, most importantly, non-survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan K. Zöllner
- Pediatrics III, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany;
- West German Cancer Center (WTZ), University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (S.B.); (S.C.); (J.H.); (A.S.); (B.T.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Essen/Düsseldorf, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - James F. Amatruda
- Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA;
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- West German Cancer Center (WTZ), University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (S.B.); (S.C.); (J.H.); (A.S.); (B.T.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Essen/Düsseldorf, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sarcoma Center, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Stéphane Collaud
- West German Cancer Center (WTZ), University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (S.B.); (S.C.); (J.H.); (A.S.); (B.T.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Essen/Düsseldorf, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruhrlandklinik, University of Essen-Duisburg, 45239 Essen, Germany
| | - Enrique de Álava
- Institute of Biomedicine of Sevilla (IbiS), Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, CSIC, University of Sevilla, CIBERONC, 41013 Seville, Spain;
- Department of Normal and Pathological Cytology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain
| | - Steven G. DuBois
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (S.G.D.); (D.S.S.)
| | - Jendrik Hardes
- West German Cancer Center (WTZ), University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (S.B.); (S.C.); (J.H.); (A.S.); (B.T.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Essen/Düsseldorf, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
- Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Sarcoma Center, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hartmann
- Division of Translational Pathology, Gerhard-Domagk Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany;
- West German Cancer Center (WTZ), Network Partner Site, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Heinrich Kovar
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute and Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Markus Metzler
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany;
| | - David S. Shulman
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (S.G.D.); (D.S.S.)
| | - Arne Streitbürger
- West German Cancer Center (WTZ), University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (S.B.); (S.C.); (J.H.); (A.S.); (B.T.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Essen/Düsseldorf, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
- Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Sarcoma Center, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Beate Timmermann
- West German Cancer Center (WTZ), University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (S.B.); (S.C.); (J.H.); (A.S.); (B.T.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Essen/Düsseldorf, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
- Department of Particle Therapy, University Hospital Essen, West German Proton Therapy Centre, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Jeffrey A. Toretsky
- Departments of Oncology and Pediatrics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA;
| | - Yasmin Uhlenbruch
- St. Josefs Hospital Bochum, University Hospital, 44791 Bochum, Germany;
| | - Volker Vieth
- Department of Radiology, Klinikum Ibbenbüren, 49477 Ibbenbühren, Germany;
| | - Thomas G. P. Grünewald
- Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, Hopp-Children’s Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Core Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Uta Dirksen
- Pediatrics III, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany;
- West German Cancer Center (WTZ), University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (S.B.); (S.C.); (J.H.); (A.S.); (B.T.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Essen/Düsseldorf, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
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13
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Clanchy FIL. Rationale for Early Detection of EWSR1 Translocation-Associated Sarcoma Biomarkers in Liquid Biopsy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:824. [PMID: 33669307 PMCID: PMC7920076 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are mesenchymal tumours that often arise and develop as a result of chromosomal translocations, and for several forms of sarcoma the EWSR1 gene is a frequent translocation partner. Sarcomas are a rare form of malignancy, which arguably have a proportionally greater societal burden that their prevalence would suggest, as they are more common in young people, with survivors prone to lifelong disability. For most forms of sarcoma, histological diagnosis is confirmed by molecular techniques such as FISH or RT-PCR. Surveillance after surgical excision, or ablation by radiation or chemotherapy, has remained relatively unchanged for decades, but recent developments in molecular biology have accelerated the progress towards routine analysis of liquid biopsies of peripheral blood. The potential to detect evidence of residual disease or metastasis in the blood has been demonstrated by several groups but remains unrealized as a routine diagnostic for relapse during remission, for disease monitoring during treatment, and for the detection of occult, residual disease at the end of therapy. An update is provided on research relevant to the improvement of the early detection of relapse in sarcomas with EWSR1-associated translocations, in the contexts of biology, diagnosis, and liquid biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix I. L. Clanchy
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK;
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK
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14
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Mc Connell L, Gazdova J, Beck K, Srivastava S, Harewood L, Stewart JP, Hübschmann D, Stenzinger A, Glimm H, Heilig CE, Fröhling S, Gonzalez D. Detection of Structural Variants in Circulating Cell-Free DNA from Sarcoma Patients Using Next Generation Sequencing. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3627. [PMID: 33287361 PMCID: PMC7761870 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123627] [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: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) analysis using next generation sequencing (NGS) is being implemented in clinical practice for treatment stratification and disease monitoring. However, using ctDNA to detect structural variants, a common occurrence in sarcoma, can be challenging. Here, we use a sarcoma-specific targeted NGS panel to identify translocations and copy number variants in a cohort of 12 tissue specimens and matched circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from soft tissue sarcoma patients, including alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 2), Ewing's Sarcoma (n = 2), synovial sarcoma (n = 2), extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma (n = 1), clear cell sarcoma (n = 1), undifferentiated round cell sarcoma (n = 1), myxoid liposarcoma (n = 1), alveolar soft part cell sarcoma (n = 1) and dedifferentiated liposarcoma (n = 1). Structural variants were detected in 11/12 (91.6%) and 6/12 (50%) of tissue and plasma samples, respectively. Structural variants were detected in cfDNA at variant allele frequencies >0.2% with an average sequencing depth of 1026×. The results from this cohort show clinical potential for using NGS in ctDNA to aid in the diagnosis and clinical monitoring of sarcomas and warrant additional studies in larger cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Mc Connell
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK; (L.M.C.); (J.G.); (S.S.); (L.H.); (J.S.)
| | - Jana Gazdova
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK; (L.M.C.); (J.G.); (S.S.); (L.H.); (J.S.)
| | - Katja Beck
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (K.B.); (C.E.H.); (S.F.)
- German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Shambhavi Srivastava
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK; (L.M.C.); (J.G.); (S.S.); (L.H.); (J.S.)
| | - Louise Harewood
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK; (L.M.C.); (J.G.); (S.S.); (L.H.); (J.S.)
| | - JP Stewart
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK; (L.M.C.); (J.G.); (S.S.); (L.H.); (J.S.)
| | - Daniel Hübschmann
- Computational Oncology, Molecular Diagnostics Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and DKFZ, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Albrecht Stenzinger
- German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hanno Glimm
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 01307 Dresden, Germany;
- Center for Personalized Oncology, National Center for Tumour Diseases (NCT) Dresden and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden at TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Translational Functional Cancer Genomics, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Christoph E. Heilig
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (K.B.); (C.E.H.); (S.F.)
- German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Stefan Fröhling
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (K.B.); (C.E.H.); (S.F.)
- German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - David Gonzalez
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK; (L.M.C.); (J.G.); (S.S.); (L.H.); (J.S.)
- Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, Belfast BT9 7AB, UK
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15
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Marass F, Stephens D, Ptashkin R, Zehir A, Berger MF, Solit DB, Diaz LA, Tsui DWY. Fragment Size Analysis May Distinguish Clonal Hematopoiesis from Tumor-Derived Mutations in Cell-Free DNA. Clin Chem 2020; 66:616-618. [PMID: 32191320 DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/hvaa026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Marass
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland.,Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dennis Stephens
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
| | - Ryan Ptashkin
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
| | - Ahmet Zehir
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
| | - Michael F Berger
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065.,Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10065
| | - David B Solit
- Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065.,Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center New York, NY 10065.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Department of Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10065
| | - Luis A Diaz
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
| | - Dana W Y Tsui
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065.,Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10065
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16
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Wei J, Liu X, Li T, Xing P, Zhang C, Yang J. The new horizon of liquid biopsy in sarcoma: the potential utility of circulating tumor nucleic acids. J Cancer 2020; 11:5293-5308. [PMID: 32742476 PMCID: PMC7391194 DOI: 10.7150/jca.42816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of sarcoma are mainly dependent on tissue biopsy, which is limited in its ability to provide a panoramic view into the dynamics of tumor progression. In addition, effective biomarkers to monitor the progression and therapeutic response of sarcoma are lacking. Liquid biopsy, a recent technological breakthrough, has gained great attention in the last few decades. Nucleic acids (such as DNA, mRNAs, microRNAs, and long non-coding RNAs) that are released from tumors circulate in the blood of cancer patients and can be evaluated through liquid biopsy. Circulating tumor nucleic acids reflect the intertumoral and intratumoral heterogeneity, and thus liquid biopsy provides a noninvasive strategy to examine these molecules compared with traditional tissue biopsy. Over the past decade, a great deal of information on the potential utilization of circulating tumor nucleic acids in sarcoma screening, prognosis and therapy efficacy monitoring has emerged. Several specific gene mutations in sarcoma can be detected in peripheral blood samples from patients and can be found in circulating tumor DNA to monitor sarcoma. In addition, circulating tumor non-coding RNA may also be a promising biomarker in sarcoma. In this review, we discuss the clinical application of circulating tumor nucleic acids as blood-borne biomarkers in sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqiang Wei
- Department of bone and soft tissue tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical College, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Xinyue Liu
- Department of bone and soft tissue tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of bone and soft tissue tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Peipei Xing
- Department of bone and soft tissue tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of bone and soft tissue tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Jilong Yang
- Department of bone and soft tissue tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
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17
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McConnell L, Houghton O, Stewart P, Gazdova J, Srivastava S, Kim C, Catherwood M, Strobl A, Flanagan AM, Oniscu A, Kroeze LI, Groenen P, Taniere P, Salto-Tellez M, Gonzalez D. A novel next generation sequencing approach to improve sarcoma diagnosis. Mod Pathol 2020; 33:1350-1359. [PMID: 32047232 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-020-0488-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Sarcoma is a rare disease affecting both bone and connective tissue and with over 100 pathologic entities, differential diagnosis can be difficult. Complementing immune-histological diagnosis with current ancillary diagnostic techniques, including FISH and RT-PCR, can lead to inconclusive results in a significant number of cases. We describe here the design and validation of a novel sequencing tool to improve sarcoma diagnosis. A NGS DNA capture panel containing probes for 87 fusion genes and 7 genes with frequent copy number changes was designed and optimized. A cohort of 113 DNA samples extracted from soft-tissue and bone sarcoma FFPE material with clinical FISH and/or RT-PCR results positive for either a translocation or gene amplification was used for validation of the NGS method. Sarcoma-specific translocations or gene amplifications were confirmed in 110 out of 113 cases using FISH and/or RT-PCR as gold-standard. MDM2/CDK4 amplification and a total of 25 distinct fusion genes were identified in this cohort of patients using the NGS approach. Overall, the sensitivity of the NGS panel is 97% with a specificity of 100 and 0% failure rate. Targeted NGS appears to be a feasible and cost-effective approach to improve sarcoma subtype diagnosis with the ability to screen for a wide range of genetic aberrations in one test.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oisín Houghton
- Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, Belfast, BT9 7AB, UK
| | - Peter Stewart
- CCRCB, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7AE, UK
| | - Jana Gazdova
- CCRCB, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7AE, UK
| | | | - Chang Kim
- CCRCB, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7AE, UK
| | | | - Anna Strobl
- Royal National Orthopedic Hospital Stanmore, Middlesex, HA7 4LP, UK
- UCL Cancer Institute, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Adrienne M Flanagan
- Royal National Orthopedic Hospital Stanmore, Middlesex, HA7 4LP, UK
- UCL Cancer Institute, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Anca Oniscu
- Pathology Department at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4SA, UK
| | - Leonie I Kroeze
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Patricia Groenen
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Philippe Taniere
- Pathology Department at Queen's Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TH, UK
| | - Manuel Salto-Tellez
- CCRCB, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7AE, UK
- Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, Belfast, BT9 7AB, UK
| | - David Gonzalez
- CCRCB, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7AE, UK.
- Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, Belfast, BT9 7AB, UK.
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18
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Breakthrough Technologies Reshape the Ewing Sarcoma Molecular Landscape. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040804. [PMID: 32225029 PMCID: PMC7226764 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is a highly aggressive round cell mesenchymal neoplasm, most often occurring in children and young adults. At the molecular level, it is characterized by the presence of recurrent chromosomal translocations. In the last years, next-generation technologies have contributed to a more accurate diagnosis and a refined classification. Moreover, the application of these novel technologies has highlighted the relevance of intertumoral and intratumoral molecular heterogeneity and secondary genetic alterations. Furthermore, they have shown evidence that genomic features can change as the tumor disseminates and are influenced by treatment as well. Similarly, next-generation technologies applied to liquid biopsies will significantly impact patient management by allowing the early detection of relapse and monitoring response to treatment. Finally, the use of these novel technologies has provided data of great value in order to discover new druggable pathways. Thus, this review provides concise updates on the latest progress of these breakthrough technologies, underscoring their importance in the generation of key knowledge, prognosis, and potential treatment of Ewing Sarcoma.
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19
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Loktev A, Shipley JM. Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT): emerging therapeutic targets and future directions for potential therapies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:281-285. [PMID: 32125905 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1738392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Loktev
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Janet M Shipley
- Sarcoma Molecular Pathology Team, Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
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20
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The pitfalls and promise of liquid biopsies for diagnosing and treating solid tumors in children: a review. Eur J Pediatr 2020; 179:191-202. [PMID: 31897843 PMCID: PMC6971142 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-019-03545-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cell-free DNA profiling using patient blood is emerging as a non-invasive complementary technique for cancer genomic characterization. Since these liquid biopsies will soon be integrated into clinical trial protocols for pediatric cancer treatment, clinicians should be informed about potential applications and advantages but also weaknesses and potential pitfalls. Small retrospective studies comparing genetic alterations detected in liquid biopsies with tumor biopsies for pediatric solid tumor types are encouraging. Molecular detection of tumor markers in cell-free DNA could be used for earlier therapy response monitoring and residual disease detection as well as enabling detection of pathognomonic and therapeutically relevant genomic alterations.Conclusion: Existing analyses of liquid biopsies from children with solid tumors increasingly suggest a potential relevance for molecular diagnostics, prognostic assessment, and therapeutic decision-making. Gaps remain in the types of tumors studied and value of detection methods applied. Here we review the current stand of liquid biopsy studies for pediatric solid tumors with a dedicated focus on cell-free DNA analysis. There is legitimate hope that integrating fully validated liquid biopsy-based innovations into the standard of care will advance patient monitoring and personalized treatment of children battling solid cancers.What is Known:• Liquid biopsies are finding their way into routine oncological screening, diagnosis, and disease monitoring in adult cancer types fast.• The most widely adopted source for liquid biopsies is blood although other easily accessible body fluids, such as saliva, pleural effusions, urine, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can also serve as sources for liquid biopsiesWhat is New:• Retrospective proof-of-concept studies in small cohorts illustrate that liquid biopsies in pediatric solid tumors yield tremendous potential to be used in diagnostics, for therapy response monitoring and in residual disease detection.• Liquid biopsy diagnostics could tackle some long-standing issues in the pediatric oncology field; they can enable accurate genetic diagnostics in previously unbiopsied tumor types like renal tumors or brain stem tumors leading to better treatment strategies.
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21
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Lee JC, Villanueva-Meyer JE, Ferris SP, Cham EM, Zucker J, Cooney T, Gilani A, Kleinschmidt-DeMasters BK, Trembath D, Mafra M, Chiang J, Ellison DW, Cho SJ, Horvai AE, Van Ziffle J, Onodera C, Devine P, Grenert JP, de Voijs CMA, van Blokland WTM, de Leng WWJ, Ploegmakers MJ, Flucke U, Pekmezci M, Bollen AW, Tihan T, Koelsche C, von Deimling A, Wesseling P, Solomon DA, Perry A. Clinicopathologic and molecular features of intracranial desmoplastic small round cell tumors. Brain Pathol 2019; 30:213-225. [PMID: 31837177 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCTs) are highly aggressive sarcomas that most commonly occur intra-abdominally, and are defined by EWSR1-WT1 gene fusion. Intracranial DSRCTs are exceptionally rare with only seven previously reported fusion-positive cases. Herein, we evaluate the clinical, morphologic, immunohistochemical and molecular features of five additional examples. All patients were male (age range 6-25 years; median 11 years), with four tumors located supratentorially and one within the posterior fossa. The histologic features were highly variable including small cell, embryonal, clear cell, rhabdoid, anaplastic and glioma-like appearances. A prominent desmoplastic stroma was seen in only two cases. The mitotic index ranged from <1 to 12/10 HPF (median 5). While all tumors showed strong desmin positivity, epithelial markers such as EMA, CAM 5.2 and other keratins were strongly positive in only one, focally positive in two and negative in two cases. EWSR1-WT1 gene fusion was present in all cases, with accompanying mutations in the TERT promoter or STAG2 gene in individual cases. Given the significant histologic diversity, in the absence of genetic evaluation these cases could easily be misinterpreted as other entities. Desmin immunostaining is a useful initial screening method for consideration of a DSRCT diagnosis, prompting confirmatory molecular testing. Demonstrating the presence of an EWSR1-WT1 fusion provides a definitive diagnosis of DSRCT. Genome-wide methylation profiles of intracranial DSRCTs matched those of extracranial DSRCTs. Thus, despite the occasionally unusual histologic features and immunoprofile, intracranial DSRCTs likely represent a similar, if not the same, entity as their soft tissue counterpart based on the shared fusion and methylation profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieann C Lee
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Sean P Ferris
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Elaine M Cham
- Department of Pathology, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, CA
| | - Jacob Zucker
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Renown Children's Hospital, Reno, NV
| | - Tabitha Cooney
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, CA
| | - Ahmed Gilani
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Denver, CO
| | | | - Dimitri Trembath
- Department of Pathology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Manuela Mafra
- Department of Pathology, The Portuguese Institute of Oncology, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jason Chiang
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - David W Ellison
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Soo-Jin Cho
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Andrew E Horvai
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jessica Van Ziffle
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Clinical Cancer Genomics Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Courtney Onodera
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Clinical Cancer Genomics Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Patrick Devine
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Clinical Cancer Genomics Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - James P Grenert
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Clinical Cancer Genomics Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Carmen M A de Voijs
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Wendy W J de Leng
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marieke J Ploegmakers
- Department of Radiology, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Uta Flucke
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Melike Pekmezci
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Andrew W Bollen
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Tarik Tihan
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Christian Koelsche
- Department of General Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas von Deimling
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuropathology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pieter Wesseling
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, and Amsterdam University Medical Centers/VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - David A Solomon
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Clinical Cancer Genomics Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Arie Perry
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
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22
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Tran LS, Pham HAT, Tran VU, Tran TT, Dang ATH, Le DT, Nguyen SL, Nguyen NV, Nguyen TV, Vo BT, Dao HTT, Nguyen NH, Tran TH, Nguyen CV, Pham PC, Dang-Mai AT, Dinh-Nguyen TK, Phan VH, Do TTT, Truong Dinh K, Do HN, Phan MD, Giang H, Nguyen HN. Ultra-deep massively parallel sequencing with unique molecular identifier tagging achieves comparable performance to droplet digital PCR for detection and quantification of circulating tumor DNA from lung cancer patients. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226193. [PMID: 31841547 PMCID: PMC6913927 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification and quantification of actionable mutations are of critical importance for effective genotype-directed therapies, prognosis and drug response monitoring in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although tumor tissue biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis of NSCLC, the analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in plasma, known as liquid biopsy, has recently emerged as an alternative and noninvasive approach for exploring tumor genetic constitution. In this study, we developed a protocol for liquid biopsy using ultra-deep massively parallel sequencing (MPS) with unique molecular identifier tagging and evaluated its performance for the identification and quantification of tumor-derived mutations from plasma of patients with advanced NSCLC. Paired plasma and tumor tissue samples were used to evaluate mutation profiles detected by ultra-deep MPS, which showed 87.5% concordance. Cross-platform comparison with droplet digital PCR demonstrated comparable detection performance (91.4% concordance, Cohen’s kappa coefficient of 0.85 with 95% CI = 0.72–0.97) and great reliability in quantification of mutation allele frequency (Intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.96 with 95% CI = 0.90–0.98). Our results highlight the potential application of liquid biopsy using ultra-deep MPS as a routine assay in clinical practice for both detection and quantification of actionable mutation landscape in NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Son Tran
- Gene Solutions, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Medical Genetics Institute, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- * E-mail: (LST); (HG); (HNN)
| | - Hong-Anh Thi Pham
- Gene Solutions, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Graduate program of Genetics, Ho Chi Minh city University of Science, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
| | - Vu-Uyen Tran
- Gene Solutions, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Graduate program of Genetics, Ho Chi Minh city University of Science, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
| | - Thanh-Truong Tran
- Gene Solutions, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Graduate program of Genetics, Ho Chi Minh city University of Science, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Binh Thanh Vo
- Gene Solutions, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Graduate program of Genetics, Ho Chi Minh city University of Science, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
| | - Hong-Thuy Thi Dao
- Gene Solutions, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Graduate program of Genetics, Ho Chi Minh city University of Science, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
| | | | - Tam Huu Tran
- Center for Standardization and QC in Medical Lab of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | | | | | | | | | - Van Hieu Phan
- Center for Forensic Science, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | | | | | | | - Minh-Duy Phan
- Gene Solutions, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Hoa Giang
- Gene Solutions, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Medical Genetics Institute, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- * E-mail: (LST); (HG); (HNN)
| | - Hoai-Nghia Nguyen
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
- * E-mail: (LST); (HG); (HNN)
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23
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Cell-free DNA in blood as a noninvasive insight into the sarcoma genome. Mol Aspects Med 2019; 72:100827. [PMID: 31703948 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2019.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Sarcomas are malignant tumors of mesenchymal origin that arise mainly from connective and supportive tissue. Sarcomas include a wide range of histological subtypes, showing a large diversity at the molecular level, from simple to highly complex karyotypes but with few recurrent somatic changes. Therapeutic decisions increasingly rely on the molecular characteristics of the individual tumor. Circulating cell-free DNA (ctDNA) is released into peripheral blood and can be used for the genomic analysis of sarcomas. However, the diversity and heterogeneity of somatic changes observed in sarcomas pose a challenge when choosing an adequate assay for the detection of ctDNA in body fluids. In this review, we provide an overview of different studies on ctDNA from blood in bone and soft tissue sarcomas, including gastrointestinal stromal tumors. We will specifically address the technological challenges that must be considered to achieve the sensitive detection of ctDNA and discuss the clinical applications of ctDNA in the management and treatment of sarcomas.
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24
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Abbou SD, Shulman DS, DuBois SG, Crompton BD. Assessment of circulating tumor DNA in pediatric solid tumors: The promise of liquid biopsies. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2019; 66:e27595. [PMID: 30614191 PMCID: PMC6550461 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Circulating tumor DNA can be detected in the blood and body fluids of patients using ultrasensitive technologies, which have the potential to improve cancer diagnosis, risk stratification, noninvasive tumor profiling, and tracking of treatment response and disease recurrence. As we begin to apply "liquid biopsy" strategies in children with cancer, it is important to tailor our efforts to the unique genomic features of these tumors and address the technical and logistical challenges of integrating biomarker testing. This article reviews the literature demonstrating the feasibility of applying liquid biopsy to pediatric solid malignancies and suggests new directions for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D. Abbou
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Oncology for Children and Adolescents, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - David S. Shulman
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Steven G. DuBois
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian D. Crompton
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA, USA,Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
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25
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Carmagnani Pestana R, Groisberg R, Roszik J, Subbiah V. Precision Oncology in Sarcomas: Divide and Conquer. JCO Precis Oncol 2019; 3:PO.18.00247. [PMID: 32914012 PMCID: PMC7446356 DOI: 10.1200/po.18.00247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are a heterogeneous group of rare malignancies that exhibit remarkable heterogeneity, with more than 50 subtypes recognized. Advances in next-generation sequencing technology have resulted in the discovery of genetic events in these mesenchymal tumors, which in addition to enhancing understanding of the biology, have opened up avenues for molecularly targeted therapy and immunotherapy. This review focuses on how incorporation of next-generation sequencing has affected drug development in sarcomas and strategies for optimizing precision oncology for these rare cancers. In a significant percentage of soft tissue sarcomas, which represent up to 40% of all sarcomas, specific driver molecular abnormalities have been identified. The challenge to evaluate these mutations across rare cancer subtypes requires the careful characterization of these genetic alterations to further define compelling drivers with therapeutic implications. Novel models of clinical trial design also are needed. This shift would entail sustained efforts by the sarcoma community to move from one-size-fits-all trials, in which all sarcomas are treated similarly, to divide-and-conquer subtype-specific strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roman Groisberg
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Jason Roszik
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Vivek Subbiah
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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26
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Slotkin EK, Diolaiti D, Shukla NN, Dela Cruz FS, Clark JJ, Gundem G, Yellapantula VD, Levine MF, You D, Ma P, Pachhal S, Ibanez Sanchez G, Benayed R, Jungbluth AA, Smyth LM, Mauguen A, Gushterova I, Ding H, Spraggon L, Darnell R, Califano A, Ladanyi M, Papaemmanuil E, Kung AL, Hyman DM, Roberts SS. Patient-Driven Discovery, Therapeutic Targeting, and Post-Clinical Validation of a Novel AKT1 Fusion-Driven Cancer. Cancer Discov 2019; 9:605-616. [PMID: 30877085 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-18-0953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite the important role of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis in the pathogenesis of cancer, to date there have been few functional oncogenic fusions identified involving the AKT genes. A 12-year-old female with a histopathologically indeterminate epithelioid neoplasm was found to harbor a novel fusion between the LAMTOR1 and AKT1 genes. Through expanded use access, she became the first pediatric patient to be treated with the oral ATP-competitive pan-AKT inhibitor ipatasertib. Treatment resulted in dramatic tumor regression, demonstrating through patient-driven discovery that the fusion resulted in activation of AKT1, was an oncogenic driver, and could be therapeutically targeted with clinical benefit. Post-clinical validation using patient-derived model systems corroborated these findings, confirmed a membrane-bound and constitutively active fusion protein, and identified potential mechanisms of resistance to single-agent treatment with ipatasertib. SIGNIFICANCE: This study describes the patient-driven discovery of the first AKT1 fusion-driven cancer and its treatment with the AKT inhibitor ipatasertib. Patient-derived in vitro and in vivo model systems are used to confirm the LAMTOR1-AKT1 fusion as a tumorigenic driver and identify potential mechanisms of resistance to AKT inhibition.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 565.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily K Slotkin
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
| | - Daniel Diolaiti
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Neerav N Shukla
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Filemon S Dela Cruz
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Gunes Gundem
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Venkata D Yellapantula
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Max F Levine
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Daoqi You
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Peilin Ma
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Sagarika Pachhal
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Ryma Benayed
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Achim A Jungbluth
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Lillian M Smyth
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Audrey Mauguen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Hongxu Ding
- Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | | | | | | | - Marc Ladanyi
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Elli Papaemmanuil
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Andrew L Kung
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - David M Hyman
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Stephen S Roberts
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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27
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Rizk VT, Walko CM, Brohl AS. Precision medicine approaches for the management of Ewing sarcoma: current perspectives. PHARMACOGENOMICS & PERSONALIZED MEDICINE 2019; 12:9-14. [PMID: 30697061 PMCID: PMC6340366 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s170612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Advancements in molecular and genetic techniques have significantly furthered our biological understanding of Ewing sarcoma (ES). ES is typified by a driving TET-ETS fusion with an otherwise relatively quiet genome. Detection of one of several characteristic fusions, most commonly EWSR1-FLI1, is the gold standard for diagnosis. We discuss the current role of precision medicine in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of ES. Continued efforts toward molecularly guided approaches are actively being pursued in ES to better refine prognosis, identify germline markers of disease susceptibility, influence therapeutic selection, effectively monitor disease activity in real time, and identify genetic and immunotherapeutic targets for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrew S Brohl
- Sarcoma Department, .,Chemical Biology and Molecular Medicine Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA,
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Detection of circulating tumour DNA is associated with inferior outcomes in Ewing sarcoma and osteosarcoma: a report from the Children's Oncology Group. Br J Cancer 2018; 119:615-621. [PMID: 30131550 PMCID: PMC6162271 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-018-0212-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND New prognostic markers are needed to identify patients with Ewing sarcoma (EWS) and osteosarcoma unlikely to benefit from standard therapy. We describe the incidence and association with outcome of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) using next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays. METHODS A NGS hybrid capture assay and an ultra-low-pass whole-genome sequencing assay were used to detect ctDNA in banked plasma from patients with EWS and osteosarcoma, respectively. Patients were coded as positive or negative for ctDNA and tested for association with clinical features and outcome. RESULTS The analytic cohort included 94 patients with EWS (82% from initial diagnosis) and 72 patients with primary localised osteosarcoma (100% from initial diagnosis). ctDNA was detectable in 53% and 57% of newly diagnosed patients with EWS and osteosarcoma, respectively. Among patients with newly diagnosed localised EWS, detectable ctDNA was associated with inferior 3-year event-free survival (48.6% vs. 82.1%; p = 0.006) and overall survival (79.8% vs. 92.6%; p = 0.01). In both EWS and osteosarcoma, risk of event and death increased with ctDNA levels. CONCLUSIONS NGS assays agnostic of primary tumour sequencing results detect ctDNA in half of the plasma samples from patients with newly diagnosed EWS and osteosarcoma. Detectable ctDNA is associated with inferior outcomes.
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Klega K, Imamovic-Tuco A, Ha G, Clapp AN, Meyer S, Ward A, Clinton C, Nag A, Van Allen E, Mullen E, DuBois SG, Janeway K, Meyerson M, Thorner AR, Crompton BD. Detection of Somatic Structural Variants Enables Quantification and Characterization of Circulating Tumor DNA in Children With Solid Tumors. JCO Precis Oncol 2018; 2018. [PMID: 30027144 DOI: 10.1200/po.17.00285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Liquid biopsies are being rapidly used in adult cancers as new biomarkers of disease. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) levels have been reported to be proportional to disease burden, correlate with treatment response, and predict relapse. However, little is known about how frequently ctDNA is detectable in pediatric patients with solid tumors. Therefore, we developed a next-generation sequencing approach to detect and quantify ctDNA in the blood of patients with the most common pediatric solid tumors. Methods Detection of ctDNA requires assays sensitive to somatic events typically observed in the cancer type being studied. In pediatric solid tumors, structural variants are more common than recurrent point mutations. We adapted an ultralow passage whole-genome sequencing approach to capture copy number variants and a hybrid capture sequencing assay to detect translocations in liquid biopsy samples from pediatric patients. Results Copy number changes seen by ultralow passage whole-genome sequencing enabled detection of ctDNA in patients with osteosarcoma, neuroblastoma, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, and Wilms tumor. In Ewing sarcoma, detection of the EWSR1 translocation was a more sensitive approach. For patients with samples collected at multiple time points, changes in ctDNA levels corresponded to treatment response. We also found that disease-specific genomic biomarkers of prognosis were detectable in ctDNA. Conclusion This study demonstrates that liquid biopsy approaches that detect somatic structural variants are well suited to pediatric solid tumors. We show that children with the most common solid tumor malignancies have detectable levels of ctDNA, which may be used to track disease response and identify genomic subclassifiers of disease. Efforts to profile larger collections of clinically annotated specimens are under way to validate the clinical use of these assays.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gavin Ha
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston
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