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Laganà M, Cremaschi V, Alberti A, Vodopivec Kuri DM, Cosentini D, Berruti A. The Evolving Treatment Landscape of Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2023; 24:1815-1832. [PMID: 37979019 PMCID: PMC10781862 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-023-01145-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Genetic assessment is crucial to address the correct treatment for advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Multi tyrosine kinase inhibitors (mTKIs) cabozantinib and vandetanib are good first line options, even vandetanib prescription is currently limited to RET mutated patients. Selective RET inhibitors such as pralsetinib could be a preferred upfront treatment in case of RET mutated MTC presenting common or gatekeeper RET mutations (e.g. M918T; V804L/M). Selpercatinib, otherwise, can be prescribed as the second line after disease progression to mTKIs. The best option for subsequent lines is to consider inclusion in clinical trials or alternatively other mTKIs such as sunitinib, sorafenib, lenvatinib, or pazopanib could be evaluated. New perspectives include next-generation RET inhibitors able to overcome resistance mechanisms responsible for disease progression to standard mTKIs and RET inhibitors, and immunotherapy for MTC presenting with high tumor mutational burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Laganà
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Valentina Cremaschi
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Alberti
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Danica M Vodopivec Kuri
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University Of Alabama, 619 19Th St S, Birmingham, AL, 35249, USA
| | - Deborah Cosentini
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alfredo Berruti
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy
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Wu SS, Lamarre ED, Scharpf J, Prendes B, Ku JA, Silver N, Burkey B, Woody N, Campbell SR, Yilmaz E, Koyfman SA, Geiger J. Survival Outcomes of Advanced Thyroid Cancer Enriched in Brain Metastases Following Treatment With Small Molecule Inhibitors. Endocr Pract 2023; 29:881-889. [PMID: 37597577 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) are targeted therapies increasingly used in advanced thyroid carcinomas. This study aimed to evaluate the survival outcomes of thyroid cancer on SMI treatment, including in patients with brain metastases. METHODS This retrospective study included patients with thyroid carcinomas who received at least one SMI between 2008 and 2022 at a tertiary level, academic institution. SMI included lenvatinib, sorafenib, dabrafenib-trametinib, selpercatinib, and cabozantinib. Patients were grouped by the presence of brain metastasis. Kaplan-Meier and log-rank tests modeled the overall survival (OS), defined from detection of first metastasis. RESULTS In total, 116 patients (49.1% female, median age 61.1 years [IQR, 51.1-71.0]) were included. Thyroid cancer subtypes were: 57 (49.6%) papillary, 23 (19.8%) anaplastic, 23 (19.8%) medullary, and 13 (11.2%) follicular. There were 18 (15.5%) patients with brain metastases, and 98 (84.5%) with visceral metastases. Age, sex, thyroid subtype, SMI, and time to recurrence were not different between cohorts. OS was shorter in the brain metastasis cohort (31.7 vs 42.2 months, P =.44) and was not different after excluding anaplastic thyroid cancer (29.1 vs 62.3 months, P =.21). In the case of papillary thyroid cancer, patients with brain metastases trended toward worse OS (22.0 vs 59.9 months, P =.13). Nonanaplastic histology, total thyroidectomy (OR, 40.0; P <.001), number of unique therapies (OR, 10.9; P =.047), and mutation-directed therapy (OR, 24.7; P =.003) were associated with improved OS. CONCLUSION This single-institutional analysis reports survival outcomes of 116 patients with advanced thyroid cancer on targeted therapies, including 18 patients with brain metastases. Mutation-directed therapy for BRAFV600E mutations, RET mutations, RET fusions, and NTRK fusions had superior survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon S Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California; Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Eric D Lamarre
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Joseph Scharpf
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Brandon Prendes
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Jamie A Ku
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Natalie Silver
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Brian Burkey
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Vero Beach, Florida
| | - Neil Woody
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Shauna R Campbell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Emrullah Yilmaz
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Shlomo A Koyfman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Jessica Geiger
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.
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Abdellateif MS, Bayoumi AK, Mohammed MA. c-Kit Receptors as a Therapeutic Target in Cancer: Current Insights. Onco Targets Ther 2023; 16:785-799. [PMID: 37790582 PMCID: PMC10544070 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s404648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
c-Kit is a type III receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) that has an essential role in various biological functions including gametogenesis, melanogenesis, hematopoiesis, cell survival, and apoptosis. c-KIT aberrations, either overexpression or loss-of-function mutations, have been implicated in the pathogenesis and development of many cancers, including gastrointestinal stromal tumors, mastocytosis, acute myeloid leukemia, breast, thyroid, and colorectal cancer, making c-KIT an attractive molecular target for the treatment of cancers. Therefore, a lot of effort has been put into investigating the utility of tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the management of c-KIT mutated tumors. This review of the literature illustrates the role of c-KIT mutations in many cancers, aiming to provide insights into the role of TKIs as a therapeutic option for cancer patients with c-KIT aberrations. In conclusion, c-KIT is implicated in different types of cancer, and it could be a successful molecular target; however, proper detection of the underlying mutation type is required before starting the appropriate personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona S Abdellateif
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, 11796, Egypt
| | - Ahmed K Bayoumi
- Paediatric Oncology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, 11796, Egypt
- Children’s Cancer Hospital 57357, Cairo, 11617, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Aly Mohammed
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, 11796, Egypt
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4
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Martins RS, Jesus TT, Cardoso L, Soares P, Vinagre J. Personalized Medicine in Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Broad Review of Emerging Treatments. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1132. [PMID: 37511745 PMCID: PMC10381735 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13071132] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) arises from parafollicular cells in the thyroid gland, and although rare, it represents an aggressive type of thyroid cancer. MTC is recognized for its low mutational burden, with point mutations in RET or RAS genes being the most common oncogenic events. MTC can be resistant to cytotoxic chemotherapy, and multitarget kinase inhibitors (MKIs) have been considered a treatment option. They act by inhibiting the activities of specific tyrosine kinase receptors involved in tumor growth and angiogenesis. Several tyrosine kinase inhibitors are approved in the treatment of advanced MTC, including vandetanib and cabozantinib. However, due to the significant number of adverse events, debatable efficiency and resistance, there is a need for novel RET-specific TKIs. Newer RET-specific TKIs are expected to overcome previous limitations and improve patient outcomes. Herein, we aim to review MTC signaling pathways, the most recent options for treatment and the applications for personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Sousa Martins
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade do Porto (FCUP), 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Tito Teles Jesus
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo do Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula Soares
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Vinagre
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
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Su J, Lu J, Zhang J, Wang M, Yan J, Lin S. A meta-analysis of the efficacy and toxicity of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in treating patients with different types of thyroid cancer: how to choose drugs appropriately? Curr Opin Oncol 2023; 35:132-144. [PMID: 36721897 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000000924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Because the high risk of death and poor prognosis of patients with refractory thyroid cancer (TC), studies related to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in treating different types of refractory TC have gradually attracted attention. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis of published randomized controlled trials and single-arm trials to evaluate tyrosine kinase inhibitors' efficacy and safety profile treatment in TC patients. RECENT FINDINGS The studies of 29 in 287 met the criteria, 9 were randomized controlled trials and 20 were single-arm trials, involving 11 TKIs (Apatinib, Anlotinib, Cabozantinib, Imatinib, Lenvatinib, Motesanib, Pazopanib, Sorafenib, Sunitinib, Vandetanib, Vemurafenib). Treatment with TKIs significantly improved progression-free survival [hazard ratio [HR] 0.34 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.24, 0.48), P < 0.00001] and overall survival [OS] [HR 0.76, (95% CI: 0.64, 0.91), P = 0.003] in randomized controlled trials, but adverse events (AEs) were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.00001). The result of the objective response rate (ORR) in single-arm trials was statistically significant [odds ratio [OR] 0.49 (95% CI: 0.32, 0.75), P = 0.001]. SUMMARY TKIs significantly prolonged progression-free survival and OS or improved ORR in patients with different types of TC (P < 0.01). Our recommendation is to select appropriate TKIs to treat different types of TC patients, and to prevent and manage drug-related AEs after using TKIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyang Su
- Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University
| | - Jialin Zhang
- Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University
| | - Menglei Wang
- Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University
| | - Jiang Yan
- Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University
| | - Shengyou Lin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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Saltiki K, Simeakis G, Karapanou O, Alevizaki M. MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Medullary thyroid cancer: from molecular biology and therapeutic pitfalls to future targeted treatment perspectives. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 187:R53-R63. [PMID: 35895692 DOI: 10.1530/eje-22-0312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
During the last decades, knowledge of the molecular biology in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) and specifically on the role of rearranged during transfection (RET)-activating mutations in tumorigenesis has led to the evolution of novel targeted therapies, mainly tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Vandetanib and cabozantinib have been approved for the management of metastatic progressive MTC. Two novel, highly selective RET inhibitors, selpercatinib and pralsetinib, have recently been approved for the treatment of RET-mutant MTCs and RET-fusion differentiated thyroid cancer. The administration of targeted therapies in MTC patients has changed the therapeutic strategies; however, in the majority of cases, there are no real data showing an improvement of prognosis by TKIs in MTC. Drug resistance remains the main reason for treatment failure. Thus, the understanding of the molecular landscape of tumorigenesis and the mechanisms underlying resistance to targeted therapies is of paramount importance for the further development of more efficient therapies for MTC. The present review focuses on the molecular pathways implicated in MTC tumorigenesis, the approved targeted therapies, the tumoral escape mechanisms, as well as the future perspectives for targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Saltiki
- Thyroid Neoplasia Unit, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - George Simeakis
- Department of Endocrinology, 401 Military Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Olga Karapanou
- Department of Endocrinology, 401 Military Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Alevizaki
- Thyroid Neoplasia Unit, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
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Haddad RI, Bischoff L, Ball D, Bernet V, Blomain E, Busaidy NL, Campbell M, Dickson P, Duh QY, Ehya H, Goldner WS, Guo T, Haymart M, Holt S, Hunt JP, Iagaru A, Kandeel F, Lamonica DM, Mandel S, Markovina S, McIver B, Raeburn CD, Rezaee R, Ridge JA, Roth MY, Scheri RP, Shah JP, Sipos JA, Sippel R, Sturgeon C, Wang TN, Wirth LJ, Wong RJ, Yeh M, Cassara CJ, Darlow S. Thyroid Carcinoma, Version 2.2022, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2022; 20:925-951. [PMID: 35948029 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2022.0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Differentiated thyroid carcinomas is associated with an excellent prognosis. The treatment of choice for differentiated thyroid carcinoma is surgery, followed by radioactive iodine ablation (iodine-131) in select patients and thyroxine therapy in most patients. Surgery is also the main treatment for medullary thyroid carcinoma, and kinase inhibitors may be appropriate for select patients with recurrent or persistent disease that is not resectable. Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is almost uniformly lethal, and iodine-131 imaging and radioactive iodine cannot be used. When systemic therapy is indicated, targeted therapy options are preferred. This article describes NCCN recommendations regarding management of medullary thyroid carcinoma and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, and surgical management of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (papillary, follicular, Hürthle cell carcinoma).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Douglas Ball
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins
| | | | | | | | | | - Paxton Dickson
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital/The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
| | - Quan-Yang Duh
- UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | | | | | | | | | - Shelby Holt
- UT Southwestern Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Jason P Hunt
- Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah
| | | | | | | | - Susan Mandel
- Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania
| | - Stephanie Markovina
- Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine
| | | | | | - Rod Rezaee
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center/University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center and Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute
| | | | - Mara Y Roth
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center/Seattle Cancer Care Alliance
| | | | | | - Jennifer A Sipos
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute
| | | | - Cord Sturgeon
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University
| | | | | | | | - Michael Yeh
- UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center; and
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Angelousi A, Hayes AR, Chatzellis E, Kaltsas GA, Grossman AB. Metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma: a new way forward. Endocr Relat Cancer 2022; 29:R85-R103. [PMID: 35521769 PMCID: PMC9175549 DOI: 10.1530/erc-21-0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare malignancy comprising 1-2% of all thyroid cancers in the United States. Approximately 20% of cases are familial, secondary to a germline RET mutation, while the remaining 80% are sporadic and also harbour a somatic RET mutation in more than half of all cases. Up to 15-20% of patients will present with distant metastatic disease, and retrospective series report a 10-year survival of 10-40% from time of first metastasis. Historically, systemic therapies for metastatic MTC have been limited, and cytotoxic chemotherapy has demonstrated poor objective response rates. However, in the last decade, targeted therapies, particularly multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have demonstrated prolonged progression-free survival in advanced and progressive MTC. Both cabozantinib and vandetanib have been approved as first-line treatment options in many countries; nevertheless, their use is limited by high toxicity rates and dose reductions are often necessary. New generation TKIs, such as selpercatinib or pralsetinib, that exhibit selective activity against RET, have recently been approved as a second-line treatment option, and they exhibit a more favourable side-effect profile. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy or immune checkpoint inhibitors may also constitute potential therapeutic options in specific clinical settings. In this review, we aim to present all current therapeutic options available for patients with progressive MTC, as well as new or as yet experimental treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Angelousi
- Unit of Endocrinology, First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Angelousi or A B Grossman: or
| | - Aimee R Hayes
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Eleftherios Chatzellis
- Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism Department, 251 Hellenic Air Force and VA General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Gregory A Kaltsas
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Laiko Hospital, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ashley B Grossman
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
- Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine, London, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Angelousi or A B Grossman: or
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Ragusa F, Ferrari SM, Elia G, Paparo SR, Balestri E, Botrini C, Patrizio A, Mazzi V, Guglielmi G, Foddis R, Spinelli C, Ulisse S, Antonelli A, Fallahi P. Combination Strategies Involving Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Tyrosine Kinase or BRAF Inhibitors in Aggressive Thyroid Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105731. [PMID: 35628540 PMCID: PMC9144613 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most common (~90%) type of endocrine-system tumor, accounting for 70% of the deaths from endocrine cancers. In the last years, the high-throughput genomics has been able to identify pathways/molecular targets involved in survival and tumor progression. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy individually have many limitations. Regarding the first one, although it greatly reduces the size of the cancer, clinical responses are generally transient and often lead to cancer relapse after initial treatment. For the second one, although it induces longer-lasting responses in cancer patients than targeted therapy, its response rate is lower. The individual limitations of these two different types of therapies can be overcome by combining them. Here, we discuss MAPK pathway inhibitors, i.e., BRAF and MEK inhibitors, combined with checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4. Several mutations make tumors resistant to treatments. Therefore, more studies are needed to investigate the patient's individual tumor mutation burden in order to overcome the problem of resistance to therapy and to develop new combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ragusa
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.R.); (G.E.); (S.R.P.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (V.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Silvia Martina Ferrari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Giusy Elia
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.R.); (G.E.); (S.R.P.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (V.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Sabrina Rosaria Paparo
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.R.); (G.E.); (S.R.P.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (V.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Eugenia Balestri
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.R.); (G.E.); (S.R.P.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (V.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Chiara Botrini
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.R.); (G.E.); (S.R.P.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (V.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Armando Patrizio
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Valeria Mazzi
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.R.); (G.E.); (S.R.P.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (V.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Giovanni Guglielmi
- U.O. Medicina Preventiva Del Lavoro, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Rudy Foddis
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (P.F.)
| | - Claudio Spinelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.R.); (G.E.); (S.R.P.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (V.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Salvatore Ulisse
- Department of Surgical Sciences, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.R.); (G.E.); (S.R.P.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (V.M.); (C.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-992318
| | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (P.F.)
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Liu Q, Sun W, Zhang H. Roles and new Insights of Macrophages in the Tumor Microenvironment of Thyroid Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875384. [PMID: 35479325 PMCID: PMC9035491 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although most thyroid cancers have a good and predictable prognosis, the anaplastic, medullary, and refractory thyroid cancers still prone to recurrence and metastasis, resulting in poor prognosis. Although a number of newly developed targeted therapies have begun to be indicated for the above types of thyroid cancer in recent years, their ability to improve overall survival remain hindered by low efficacy. As the largest component of immune cells in tumor microenvironment, tumor-associated macrophages play a key role in the invasion and metastasis of thyroid cancer. There is much evidence that the immune system, tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cell interactions may revolutionize traditional therapeutic directions. Tumor-associated macrophages have been extensively studied in a variety of tumors, however, research on the relationship between thyroid cancer and macrophages is still insufficient. In this review, we summarize the functions of tumor-associated macrophages in different types of thyroid cancer, their cytokines or chemokines effect on thyroid cancer and the mechanisms that promote tumor proliferation and migration. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms by which tumor-associated macrophages maintain the stemness of thyroid cancer and potential strategies for targeting tumor-associated macrophages to treat thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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11
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Matrone A, Gambale C, Prete A, Elisei R. Sporadic Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: Towards a Precision Medicine. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:864253. [PMID: 35422765 PMCID: PMC9004483 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.864253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a neuroendocrine malignant tumor originating from parafollicular C-cells producing calcitonin. Most of cases (75%) are sporadic while the remaining (25%) are hereditary. In these latter cases medullary thyroid carcinoma can be associated (multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIA and IIB) or not (familial medullary thyroid carcinoma), with other endocrine diseases such as pheochromocytoma and/or hyperparathyroidism. RET gene point mutation is the main molecular alteration involved in MTC tumorigenesis, both in sporadic and in hereditary cases. Total thyroidectomy with prophylactic/therapeutic central compartment lymph nodes dissection is the initial treatment of choice. Further treatments are needed according to tumor burden and rate of progression. Surgical treatments and local therapies are advocated in the case of single or few local or distant metastasis and slow rate of progression. Conversely, systemic treatments should be initiated in cases with large metastatic and rapidly progressive disease. In this review, we discuss the details of systemic treatments in advanced and metastatic sporadic MTC, focusing on multikinase inhibitors, both those already used in clinical practice and under investigation, and on emerging treatments such as highly selective RET inhibitors and radionuclide therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rossella Elisei
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Endocrine Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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12
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Systemic Therapy in Thyroid Cancer. Indian J Surg Oncol 2022; 13:68-80. [PMID: 35462658 PMCID: PMC8986938 DOI: 10.1007/s13193-021-01398-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy. While surgery remains the mainstay of the treatment of all different histologies, for differentiated thyroid cancers, radioactive iodine also plays an important role in management. Once tumor becomes radio-iodine refractory, it needs systemic therapy. Earlier, these tumors had very dismal prognosis. However, with the advancement of technology and research, it has become clear now that thyroid cancer cells are driven by various mutations. Targeting these oncogenic drivers by various molecules have proven to be effective therapeutic strategy in thyroid cancer. Besides, as in other solid tumors, immunotherapy is also being evaluated in thyroid cancer. While these new therapeutic approaches have revolutionized the treatment on advanced/metastatic thyroid cancer, there are definite challenges which limit their use in common clinical practice. These challenges include higher treatment cost and lack of testing to identify the driver mutations. Moreover, there is still need for further research in thyroid cancers to identify oncogenic targets and agent to act upon them.
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13
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Qu N, Hui Z, Shen Z, Kan C, Hou N, Sun X, Han F. Thyroid Cancer and COVID-19: Prospects for Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Development. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:873027. [PMID: 35600591 PMCID: PMC9114699 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.873027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most prevalent endocrine malignancy and the reported incidence of thyroid cancer has continued to increase in recent years. Since 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been spreading worldwide in a global pandemic. COVID-19 aggravates primary illnesses and affects disease management; relevant changes include delayed diagnosis and treatment. The thyroid is an endocrine organ that is susceptible to autoimmune attack; thus, thyroid cancer after COVID-19 has gradually attracted attention. Whether COVID-19 affects the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer has also attracted the attention of many researchers. This review examines the literature regarding the influence of COVID-19 on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of thyroid cancer; it also focuses on drug therapies to promote research into strategies for improving therapy and management in thyroid cancer patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Qu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Zongguang Hui
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Zhixin Shen
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Chengxia Kan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Ningning Hou
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- *Correspondence: Fang Han, ; Xiaodong Sun,
| | - Fang Han
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- *Correspondence: Fang Han, ; Xiaodong Sun,
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14
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Puliafito I, Esposito F, Prestifilippo A, Marchisotta S, Sciacca D, Vitale MP, Giuffrida D. Target Therapy in Thyroid Cancer: Current Challenge in Clinical Use of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and Management of Side Effects. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:860671. [PMID: 35872981 PMCID: PMC9304687 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.860671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common endocrine malignancy. TC is classified as differentiated TC (DTC), which includes papillary and follicular subtypes and Hürthle cell variants, medullary TC (MTC), anaplastic TC (ATC), and poorly differentiated TC (PDTC). The standard of care in DTC consists of surgery together with radioactive iodine (131I) therapy and thyroid hormone, but patients with MTC do not benefit from 131I therapy. Patients with advanced TC resistant to 131I treatment (RAI-R) have no chance of cure, as well as patients affected by ATC and progressive MTC, in which conventional therapy plays only a palliative role, representing, until a few years ago, an urgent unmet need. In the last decade, a better understanding of molecular pathways involved in the tumorigenesis of specific histopathological subtypes of TC has led to develop tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). TKIs represent a valid treatment in progressive advanced disease and were tested in all subtypes of TC, highlighting the need to improve progression-free survival. However, treatments using these novel therapeutics are often accompanied by side effects that required optimal management to minimize their toxicities and thereby enable patients who show benefit to continue treatment and obtain maximal clinical efficacy. The goal of this overview is to provide an update on the current use of the main drugs recently studied for advanced TC and the management of the adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Puliafito
- Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo SpA, Viagrande, Italy
| | - Francesca Esposito
- IOM Ricerca Srl, Viagrande, Italy
- *Correspondence: Francesca Esposito, ; Dario Giuffrida,
| | - Angela Prestifilippo
- Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo SpA, Viagrande, Italy
| | | | - Dorotea Sciacca
- Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo SpA, Viagrande, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Vitale
- Hospital Pharmacy Unit, Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo SpA, Viagrande, Italy
| | - Dario Giuffrida
- Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo SpA, Viagrande, Italy
- *Correspondence: Francesca Esposito, ; Dario Giuffrida,
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15
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Nervo A, Retta F, Ragni A, Piovesan A, Mella A, Biancone L, Manganaro M, Gallo M, Arvat E. Nephrotoxicity in advanced thyroid cancer treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors: An update. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 168:103533. [PMID: 34801702 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the prognosis of advanced thyroid cancer (TC) patients has dramatically improved thanks to the introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Despite their effectiveness, these drugs are burdened with several side effects that can negatively affect quality of life and compromise therapy continuation. Among renal adverse events (RAEs), proteinuria is the most frequently reported in clinical trials and real-life experiences, especially during treatment with lenvatinib or cabozantinib. This peculiar toxicity is commonly associated with targeted therapies with anti-angiogenic activity, even if the mechanisms underlying its onset and progression are not entirely clear. RAEs should be early recognized and properly managed to avoid renal function worsening and life-threatening consequences. Aiming at providing a comprehensive summary that can help clinicians to identify and manage TKIs-related RAEs in TC patients, we reviewed the current evidence about this topic, from pathogenesis and potential risk factors to diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Nervo
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Francesca Retta
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Alberto Ragni
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, AO SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo Hospital, Alessandria, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Piovesan
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Alberto Mella
- Division of Nephrology Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Medical Sciences, Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Luigi Biancone
- Division of Nephrology Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Medical Sciences, Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Marco Manganaro
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, AO SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo Hospital, Alessandria, Italy.
| | - Marco Gallo
- Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, AO SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo Hospital, Alessandria, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Arvat
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
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16
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Krajewska J, Kukulska A, Oczko-Wojciechowska M, Jarzab B. Recent advances in precision medicine for the treatment of medullary thyroid cancer. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2021.1964952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta Krajewska
- Nuclear Medicine and Endocrine Oncology Department, M. Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology Gliwice Branch, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Kukulska
- Nuclear Medicine and Endocrine Oncology Department, M. Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology Gliwice Branch, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Oczko-Wojciechowska
- Department of Tumor Genetics and Molecular Diagnostics, M. Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology Gliwice Branch, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Barbara Jarzab
- Nuclear Medicine and Endocrine Oncology Department, M. Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology Gliwice Branch, Gliwice, Poland
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17
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Melaccio A, Sgaramella LI, Pasculli A, Di Meo G, Gurrado A, Prete FP, Vacca A, Ria R, Testini M. Prognostic and Therapeutic Role of Angiogenic Microenvironment in Thyroid Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112775. [PMID: 34204889 PMCID: PMC8199761 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Angiogenesis is an essential event for the progression of solid tumors and is promoted by angiogenic cytokines released in the tumor microenvironment by neoplastic and stromal cells. Over the last 20 years, the role of the microenvironment and the implication of several angiogenic factors in tumorigenesis of solid and hematological neoplasms have been widely studied. The tumor microenvironment has also been well-defined for thyroid cancer, clarifying the importance of angiogenesis in cancer progression, spread, and metastasis. Furthermore, recent studies have evaluated the association of circulating angiogenic factors with the clinical outcomes of differentiated thyroid cancer, potentially providing noninvasive, low-cost, and safe tests that can be used in screening, diagnosis, and follow-up. In this review, we highlight the mechanisms of action of these proangiogenic factors and their different molecular pathways, as well as their applications in the treatment and prognosis of thyroid cancer. Abstract Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy, with a typically favorable prognosis following standard treatments, such as surgical resection and radioiodine therapy. A subset of thyroid cancers progress to refractory/metastatic disease. Understanding how the tumor microenvironment is transformed into an angiogenic microenvironment has a role of primary importance in the aggressive behavior of these neoplasms. During tumor growth and progression, angiogenesis represents a deregulated biological process, and the angiogenic switch, characterized by the formation of new vessels, induces tumor cell proliferation, local invasion, and hematogenous metastases. This evidence has propelled the scientific community’s effort to study a number of molecular pathways (proliferation, cell cycle control, and angiogenic processes), identifying mediators that may represent viable targets for new anticancer treatments. Herein, we sought to review angiogenesis in thyroid cancer and the potential role of proangiogenic cytokines for risk stratification of patients. We also present the current status of treatment of advanced differentiated, medullary, and poorly differentiated thyroid cancers with multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitors, based on the rationale of angiogenesis as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assunta Melaccio
- Operative Unit of Internal Medicine “G. Baccelli”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.); (A.V.); (R.R.)
| | - Lucia Ilaria Sgaramella
- Academic General Surgery Unit “V. Bonomo”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (L.I.S.); (A.P.); (G.D.M.); (A.G.); (F.P.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pasculli
- Academic General Surgery Unit “V. Bonomo”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (L.I.S.); (A.P.); (G.D.M.); (A.G.); (F.P.P.)
| | - Giovanna Di Meo
- Academic General Surgery Unit “V. Bonomo”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (L.I.S.); (A.P.); (G.D.M.); (A.G.); (F.P.P.)
| | - Angela Gurrado
- Academic General Surgery Unit “V. Bonomo”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (L.I.S.); (A.P.); (G.D.M.); (A.G.); (F.P.P.)
| | - Francesco Paolo Prete
- Academic General Surgery Unit “V. Bonomo”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (L.I.S.); (A.P.); (G.D.M.); (A.G.); (F.P.P.)
| | - Angelo Vacca
- Operative Unit of Internal Medicine “G. Baccelli”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.); (A.V.); (R.R.)
| | - Roberto Ria
- Operative Unit of Internal Medicine “G. Baccelli”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.); (A.V.); (R.R.)
| | - Mario Testini
- Academic General Surgery Unit “V. Bonomo”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (L.I.S.); (A.P.); (G.D.M.); (A.G.); (F.P.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3355370914
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18
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Salvatore D, Santoro M, Schlumberger M. The importance of the RET gene in thyroid cancer and therapeutic implications. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2021; 17:296-306. [PMID: 33603219 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-021-00470-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the discovery of the RET receptor tyrosine kinase in 1985, alterations of this protein have been found in diverse thyroid cancer subtypes. RET gene rearrangements are observed in papillary thyroid carcinoma, which result in RET fusion products. By contrast, single amino acid substitutions and small insertions and/or deletions are typical of hereditary and sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma. RET rearrangements and mutations of extracellular cysteines facilitate dimerization and kinase activation, whereas mutations in the RET kinase coding domain drive dimerization-independent kinase activation. Thus, RET kinase inhibition is an attractive therapeutic target in patients with RET alterations. This approach was initially achieved using multikinase inhibitors, which affect multiple deregulated pathways that include RET kinase. In clinical practice, use of multikinase inhibitors in patients with advanced thyroid cancer resulted in therapeutic efficacy, which was associated with frequent and sometimes severe adverse effects. However, remarkable progress has been achieved with the identification of novel potent and selective RET kinase inhibitors for the treatment of advanced thyroid cancer. Although expanded clinical validation in future trials is needed, the sustained antitumoural activity and the improved safety profile of these novel compounds is opening a new exciting era in precision oncology for RET-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Salvatore
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Santoro
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Martin Schlumberger
- Département de Médecine Nucléaire et Cancérologie Endocrinienne, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France.
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19
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Li D, Chi Y, Chen X, Ge M, Zhang Y, Guo Z, Wang J, Chen J, Zhang J, Cheng Y, Li Z, Liu H, Qin J, Zhu J, Cheng R, Xu Z, Zheng X, Tang P, Gao M. Anlotinib in Locally Advanced or Metastatic Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Randomized, Double-Blind Phase IIB Trial. Clin Cancer Res 2021; 27:3567-3575. [PMID: 33832949 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-2950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) accounts for about 2% of all thyroid cancer, but has a relatively poor prognosis compared with differentiated thyroid cancer. Anlotinib is a novel multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting VEGFR, PDGFR, FGFR, and c-Kit. This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase IIB study (ALTER 01031 and NCT02586350) was conducted to investigate the efficacy and safety of anlotinib in MTC. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with histopathologically confirmed, unresectable locally advanced or metastatic MTC were enrolled and randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to receive anlotinib (12 mg once daily from day 1 to 14 every 3 weeks) or placebo. Patients in placebo group were allowed to receive open-label anlotinib after disease progression. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS); secondary endpoints included objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and overall survival (OS). RESULTS Ninety-one patients were enrolled. At data cutoff date, the median PFS was significantly prolonged in the anlotinib group than in the placebo group (20.7 months vs. 11.1 months, P = 0.029; HR, 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.30-0.95). The ORR of anlotinib treatment was 48.4%. The incidence of treatment-related adverse events (TRAE) was 100% and 89.7% in the anlotinib and placebo groups, respectively. The most common TRAEs of all grades in the anlotinib group were palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (62.9%), proteinuria (61.3%), and hypertriglyceridemia (48.4%). CONCLUSIONS Anlotinib demonstrates its efficacy and safety in this phase IIB trial for the treatment of MTC and may become a new choice for this rare disease, especially for Chinese patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dapeng Li
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Yihebali Chi
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohong Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University/Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Ministry of Education, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
| | - Minghua Ge
- Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine (ICBM), Chinese Academy of Sciences; Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Head and Neck Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital; People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Head and Neck Surgery (Department), Jiangsu Cancer Hospital (Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital), Nanjing, China
| | - Zhuming Guo
- Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Head and Neck Surgery, Gansu Provincial Cancer Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Head and Neck Surgery Department I, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Jiewu Zhang
- Thyroid Surgery Ward, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Zhendong Li
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, Tumor Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Tumor Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Head and Neck Surgery, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianwu Qin
- Thyroid & Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University; Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingqiang Zhu
- Thyroid Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruochuan Cheng
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhengang Xu
- Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangqian Zheng
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Pingzhang Tang
- Department for VIP, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Ming Gao
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China. .,Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, China
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20
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Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2: A reveiw. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 79:163-179. [PMID: 33812987 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Multiple endocrine neoplasias are rare hereditary syndromes some of them with malignant potential. Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2) is an autosomal dominant hereditary cancer syndrome due to germline variants in the REarranged during Transfection (RET) proto-oncogene. There are two distinct clinical entities: MEN 2A and MEN 2B. MEN 2A is associated with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), phaeochromocytoma, primary hyperparathyroidism, cutaneous lichen amyloidosis and Hirschprung's disease and MEN 2B with MTC, phaeochromocytoma, ganglioneuromatosis of the aerodigestive tract, musculoskeletal and ophthalmologic abnormalities. Germline RET variants causing MEN 2 result in gain-of-function; since the discovery of the genetic variants a thorough search for genotype-phenotype associations began in order to understand the high variability both between families and within family members. These studies have successfully led to improved risk classification of prognosis in relation to the genotype, thus improving the management of the patients by thorough genetic counseling. The present review summarizes the recent developments in the knowledge of these hereditary syndromes as well as the impact on clinical management, including genetic counseling, of both individual patients and families. It furthermore points to future directions of research for better clarification of timing of treatments of the various manifestations of the syndromes in order to improve survival and morbidity in these patients.
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21
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Efstathiadou ZA, Tsentidis C, Bargiota A, Daraki V, Kotsa K, Ntali G, Papanastasiou L, Tigas S, Toulis K, Pazaitou-Panayiotou K, Alevizaki M. Benefits and Limitations of TKIs in Patients with Medullary Thyroid Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Eur Thyroid J 2021; 10:125-139. [PMID: 33981617 PMCID: PMC8077374 DOI: 10.1159/000509457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been used in patients with advanced medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC); however, data on their effectiveness and safety are limited. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to document clinical response and toxicities of TKIs in advanced MTC. METHODS We systematically searched major databases for articles or abstracts on TKI use in MTC patients until May 2018. Objective response (OR), defined as the sum of complete + partial response, expressed as percentage, was our primary endpoint, while disease stability, disease progression (DP), median progression-free survival (PFS), and drug discontinuation rate due to adverse events (AEs) were secondary endpoints. Pooled percentages, PFS time, and 95% CIs were reported. RESULTS Thirty-three publications were finally included in the analysis: 1 phase IV, 2 phase III trials evaluating vandetanib and cabozantinib, respectively, 20 phase I or II studies, and the remaining 10 studies of retrospective-observational nature. OR was documented in 28.6% (95% CI 25.9-31.9) of patients. Stable disease was recorded in 46.2% (95% CI 43.3-49.1). Overall, DP was observed in 22.9% (95% CI 20.4-27.6). Grade 3 or more AEs occurred in 48.5% (95% CI 45.5-51.5) of patients, and drug discontinuation was reported in 44.7% (95% CI 41.7-47.6). In general, use of TKIs conferred a PFS of 23.3 months (95% CI 21.07-25.5). In particular, vandetanib induced an OR in 33.8% (95% CI 29.6-38.0) of patients and cabozantinib in 27.7% (95% CI 22.05-33.4). DP occurred in 23.7% (95% CI 19.9-27.6) with vandetanib use and in 22.6% (95% CI 17.4-27.9) in cabozantinib-treated patients. Sorafenib, the third most frequently studied drug, showed intermediate efficacy, but higher discontinuation rates. CONCLUSION Treatment with TKIs in MTC patients with progressive disease is associated with a moderate therapeutic benefit, with achievement of either disease stability or partial response in 73%. The toxicity of these drugs is not negligible, but it is, nonetheless, manageable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe A. Efstathiadou
- Department of Endocrinology, “Hippokration” General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- *Zoe A. Efstathiadou, Department of Endocrinology, “Hippokration” General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Konstantinoupoleos 49, GR–54642 Thessaloniki (Greece),
| | - Charalambos Tsentidis
- Department of Endocrinology, General Hospital of Nikaia “Agios Panteleimon”, Piraeus, Greece
| | | | - Vasiliki Daraki
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Kotsa
- Department of Endocrinology, “Ahepa” Hospital, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgia Ntali
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, “Evangelismos” Hospital Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Labrini Papanastasiou
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, Athens General Hospital “G. Gennimatas”, Athens, Greece
| | - Stelios Tigas
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | | | | | - Maria Alevizaki
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medical Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Improvement of Overall Survival Using TKIs as Salvage Therapy in Advanced Thyroid Carcinoma: Real-Life Data on a Single Center Experience. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030384. [PMID: 33498404 PMCID: PMC7864191 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have improved progression-free survival in patients with advanced thyroid cancer. So far, few studies have investigated the efficacy of TKIs in a second-line setting. The purpose of our study was to explore the salvage therapy efficacy in patients with advanced thyroid cancer. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 63 patients with progressive advanced thyroid carcinoma treated with TKIs divided into a Study group (23 patients) treated with salvage therapy, and a Control group (40 patients) treated with only one TKI. Results: Similar clinical benefits (stable disease + partial response) and progression free survival between the first and the second line TKI were observed in the Study group (p > 0.99 and p = 0.5, respectively). Median overall survival (OS) was 67.7 months in the Study group and 22.6 months in the Control group (HR 2.46; 95% CI 1.34–4.52, p = 0.004). After stratifying the whole population by age (<65 and ≥65 years), OS was significantly different (p < 0.001) with the best survival curve in younger patients, treated with salvage therapy and the worst in older subjects, treated with only one TKI. Conclusions: Salvage therapy showed a significant improvement of OS in patients with advanced thyroid cancer who experienced disease progression during prior TKI therapies.
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Fullmer T, Cabanillas ME, Zafereo M. Novel Therapeutics in Radioactive Iodine-Resistant Thyroid Cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:720723. [PMID: 34335481 PMCID: PMC8321684 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.720723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Iodine-resistant cancers account for the vast majority of thyroid related mortality and, until recently, there were limited therapeutic options. However, over the last decade our understanding of the molecular foundation of thyroid function and carcinogenesis has driven the development of many novel therapeutics. These include FDA approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors and small molecular inhibitors of VEGFR, BRAF, MEK, NTRK and RET, which collectively have significantly changed the prognostic outlook for this patient population. Some therapeutics can re-sensitize de-differentiated cancers to iodine, allowing for radioactive iodine treatment and improved disease control. Remarkably, there is now an FDA approved treatment for BRAF-mutated patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer, previously considered invariably and rapidly fatal. The treatment landscape for iodine-resistant thyroid cancer is changing rapidly with many new targets, therapeutics, clinical trials, and approved treatments. We provide an up-to-date review of novel therapeutic options in the treatment of iodine-resistant thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanner Fullmer
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Maria E. Cabanillas
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mark Zafereo
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Mark Zafereo,
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Hernando J, Ros J, Arroyo A, Capdevila J. Clinical and Translational Challenges in Thyroid Cancer. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:4806-4822. [PMID: 32056516 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666200214125712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy and it accounts for 1% of all newly diagnosed tumors. Approximately 10% of patients with differentiated thyroid carcinomas (DTC) and 30% with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) could not be cured with locoregional treatment and could develop metastatic disease. In addition, one of the most aggressive solid tumors can arise from the thyroid gland, the anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, with a median overall survival of less than 6 months. Currently, only four drugs are approved for the treatment of DTC and MTC and several unmet needs are focusing the scientific discussions, including the resistant setting, the off-target side effects that may reduce the efficacy and the molecular knowledge-based combinations. In this review, we aimed to discuss the current molecular landscape and treatment of thyroid cancers, and the ongoing clinical and translational research lines focusing on new drugs and drug combinations to improve the inhibition of driver mutations, such as BRAF and RET, and how systemic therapies that improved outcomes of other cancer types, like immunotherapy and peptide receptor radionuclide therapy, may play a role in the future management of advanced thyroid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Hernando
- Medical Oncology Department, Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumor Unit, Vall d´Hebron University Hospital, Vall Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Pg Vall d´Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Ros
- Medical Oncology Department, Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumor Unit, Vall d´Hebron University Hospital, Vall Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Pg Vall d´Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alvaro Arroyo
- Medical Oncology Department, Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumor Unit, Vall d´Hebron University Hospital, Vall Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Pg Vall d´Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Capdevila
- Medical Oncology Department, Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumor Unit, Vall d´Hebron University Hospital, Vall Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Pg Vall d´Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
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25
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Kachko VA, Platonova NM, Vanushko VE, Shifman BM. [The role of molecular testing in thyroid tumors]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 66:33-46. [PMID: 33351337 DOI: 10.14341/probl12491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
¹I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia; ²Endocrinology Research Centre, Moscow, Russia Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine gland cancer. In the last few decades, the molecular diagnostics for thyroid tumors have been widely researched. It is one of the few cancers whose incidence has increased in recent years from microcarcinomas to common, large forms, in all age groups, from children to the elder people. Most researches focus on the genetic basis, since our current knowledge of the genetic background of various forms of thyroid cancer is far from being complete. Molecular and genetic research has several main directions: firstly, differential diagnosis of thyroid tumors, secondly, the prognostic value of detected mutations in thyroid cancer, and thirdly, targeted therapy for aggressive or radioactive iodine-resistant forms of thyroid cancer. In this review, we wanted to update our understanding and describe the prevailing advances in molecular genetics of thyroid cancer, focusing on the main genes associated with the pathology and their potential application in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera A Kachko
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
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Abstract
The diagnostic modalities, stratification tools, and treatment options for patients with thyroid cancer have rapidly evolved since the development of the American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines in 2015. This review compiles newer concepts in diagnosis, stratification tools and treatment options for patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) and anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). Newer developments apply precision medicine in thyroid cancer patients to avoid over-treatment in low risk disease and under-treatment in high risk disease. Among novel patient-tailored therapies are selective RET inhibitors that have shown efficacy in the treatment of MTC with limited systemic toxicity compared with non-specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The combination of BRAF and MEK inhibitors have revolutionized management of BRAF V600E mutant ATC. Several immunotherapeutic agents are being actively investigated in the treatment of all forms of thyroid cancer. In this review, we describe the recent advances in the diagnosis and management of DTC, MTC, and ATC, with an emphasis on novel treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A. Araque
- Endocrinology Department, Pacific Neuroscience Institute, John Wayne Cancer Institute, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - Sriram Gubbi
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Joanna Klubo-Gwiezdzinska
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
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27
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Ilanchezhian M, Khan S, Okafor C, Glod J, Del Rivero J. Update on the Treatment of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma in Patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2. Horm Metab Res 2020; 52:588-597. [PMID: 32299110 DOI: 10.1055/a-1145-8479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine cancer that accounts for 1-2% of thyroid cancers in the United States (U.S.). While most cases are sporadic, 25% of MTC cases are hereditary. These hereditary cases occur in the setting of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2A (MEN2A) or 2B (MEN2B) driven by mutations in the Rearranged during Transfection RET proto-oncogene. This article discusses hereditary MTC in the setting of MEN2 and the treatment options available for it. The first line treatment for this disease is typically a total thyroidectomy and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Two tyrosine kinase inhibitors, vandetanib and cabozantinib, have been approved for treatment of advanced MTC, but options beyond those are limited. However, several promising treatments are being studied, which are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maran Ilanchezhian
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sophia Khan
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Christian Okafor
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - John Glod
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jaydira Del Rivero
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
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28
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Al-Jundi M, Thakur S, Gubbi S, Klubo-Gwiezdzinska J. Novel Targeted Therapies for Metastatic Thyroid Cancer-A Comprehensive Review. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2104. [PMID: 32751138 PMCID: PMC7463725 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The knowledge on thyroid cancer biology has grown over the past decade. Thus, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to manage thyroid cancer are rapidly evolving. With new insights into tumor biology and cancer genetics, several novel therapies have been approved for the treatment of thyroid cancer. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), such as lenvatinib and sorafenib, have been successfully utilized for the treatment of radioactive iodine (RAI)-refractory metastatic differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). In addition, pretreatment with mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors (trametinib and selumetinib) has been shown to restore RAI avidity in previously RAI-refractory DTCs. Local therapies, such as external beam radiation and radiofrequency/ethanol ablation, have also been employed for treatment of DTC. Vandetanib and cabozantinib are the two TKIs currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Other novel therapies, such as peptide receptor radionuclide therapy and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) vaccine, have also been utilized in treating MTC. Ongoing trials on selective rearranged-during-transfection (RET) protooncogene inhibitors, such as LOXO-292 and BLU-667, have demonstrated promising results in the treatment of metastatic MTC resistant to non-selective TKIs. The FDA-approved BRAF/MEK inhibitor combination of dabrafenib and trametinib has revolutionized treatment of BRAFV600E mutation positive anaplastic thyroid cancer. Several other emerging classes of medications, such as gene fusion inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors, are being actively investigated in several clinical trials. In this review, we describe the molecular landscape of thyroid cancer and novel targeted therapies and treatment combinations available for the treatment of metastatic thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Joanna Klubo-Gwiezdzinska
- Thyroid Tumors and Functional Thyroid Disorders Section, Metabolic Disease Branch, National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA; (M.A.-J.); (S.T.); (S.G.)
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29
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San Román Gil M, Pozas J, Molina-Cerrillo J, Gómez J, Pian H, Pozas M, Carrato A, Grande E, Alonso-Gordoa T. Current and Future Role of Tyrosine Kinases Inhibition in Thyroid Cancer: From Biology to Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4951. [PMID: 32668761 PMCID: PMC7403957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer represents a heterogenous disease whose incidence has increased in the last decades. Although three main different subtypes have been described, molecular characterization is progressively being included in the diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm of these patients. In fact, thyroid cancer is a landmark in the oncological approach to solid tumors as it harbors key genetic alterations driving tumor progression that have been demonstrated to be potential actionable targets. Within this promising and rapid changing scenario, current efforts are directed to improve tumor characterization for an accurate guidance in the therapeutic management. In this sense, it is strongly recommended to perform tissue genotyping to patients that are going to be considered for systemic therapy in order to select the adequate treatment, according to recent clinical trials data. Overall, the aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive review on the molecular biology of thyroid cancer focusing on the key role of tyrosine kinases. Additionally, from a clinical point of view, we provide a thorough perspective, current and future, in the treatment landscape of this tumor.
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MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/enzymology
- Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/genetics
- Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/therapy
- Adenoma, Oxyphilic/enzymology
- Adenoma, Oxyphilic/genetics
- Adenoma, Oxyphilic/therapy
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/therapeutic use
- Carcinoma, Medullary/enzymology
- Carcinoma, Medullary/genetics
- Carcinoma, Medullary/therapy
- Carcinoma, Papillary/enzymology
- Carcinoma, Papillary/genetics
- Carcinoma, Papillary/therapy
- Clinical Trials as Topic
- Combined Modality Therapy
- Disease Management
- Forecasting
- Genes, Neoplasm
- Humans
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Immunoconjugates/therapeutic use
- Immunotherapy
- Iodine Radioisotopes/therapeutic use
- Molecular Targeted Therapy
- Multicenter Studies as Topic
- Neoplasm Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/antagonists & inhibitors
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/genetics
- Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
- Thyroid Neoplasms/enzymology
- Thyroid Neoplasms/genetics
- Thyroid Neoplasms/therapy
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- María San Román Gil
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
| | - Javier Pozas
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
| | - Javier Molina-Cerrillo
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
- The Ramon y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), CIBERONC, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
| | - Joaquín Gómez
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
- General Surgery Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Héctor Pian
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Pozas
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
| | - Alfredo Carrato
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
- The Ramon y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), CIBERONC, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
| | - Enrique Grande
- Medical Oncology Department, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 28033 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Teresa Alonso-Gordoa
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
- The Ramon y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), CIBERONC, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
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Dabelić N, Jukić T, Fröbe A. Medullary Thyroid Cancer - Feature Review and Update on Systemic Treatment. Acta Clin Croat 2020; 59:50-59. [PMID: 34219884 PMCID: PMC8212605 DOI: 10.20471/acc.2020.59.s1.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare malignancy that originates from parafollicular (C cells) of the thyroid and accounts for 2-4% of all thyroid malignancies. MTC may be sporadic or inherited, the latter as part of the MEN 2 syndromes. Germline mutations in the RET proto-oncogene (REarranged during Transfection) are driver mutations in hereditary MTC, whereas somatic RET mutations and, less frequently, RAS mutations, have been described in tumor tissues of sporadic MTC. Genetic screening for germline mutations in RET proto-oncogene identifies gene carriers of germline mutations. That enables primary prevention (the avoidance of disease onset by total prophylactic thyroidectomy), or at least secondary prevention (early detection) of the disease. Radical surgery with complete tumor resection is still pivotal in attaining cure for MTC. Despite recent advances, the treatment of advanced, metastatic, and progressive MTC remains challenging. Metastatic MTC can have an indolent clinical course; therefore, it is necessary to assess which patient to cure and when to initiate the treatment. Multidisciplinary boards of various specialists involved in the diagnostics and therapy of the patients with MTC in highly specialized centers with a high volume of patients provide optimal patient management. Multikinase inhibitors (MKI) vandetanib and cabozantinib were approved for the treatment of progressive or symptomatic metastatic/unresectable MTC. Although these treatments have been shown to improve progression-free survival (PFS) with higher overall response rates (ORR) compared with placebo, no MKI has been shown to increase the overall survival (OS) yet, except in the subgroup of patients with RETM918T-mutations on cabozantinib therapy. As these drugs are nonselective, significant off-target toxicities may occur. Recently, next-generation small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been developed. These highly selective RET-inhibitors are specifically designed for highly potent and selective targeting of oncogenic RET alterations, making them promising drugs for the treatment of advanced MTC. The selective RET-inhibitor selpercatinib has been very recently registered for the treatment of RET-mutated thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tomislav Jukić
- 1Department of Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 2University of Zagreb, School of Medicine; 3University of Zagreb, School of Dental Medicine
| | - Ana Fröbe
- 1Department of Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia; 2University of Zagreb, School of Medicine; 3University of Zagreb, School of Dental Medicine
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Cabanillas ME, Ryder M, Jimenez C. Targeted Therapy for Advanced Thyroid Cancer: Kinase Inhibitors and Beyond. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:1573-1604. [PMID: 31322645 PMCID: PMC7341904 DOI: 10.1210/er.2019-00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of advanced thyroid cancer has undergone rapid evolution in the last decade, with multiple kinase inhibitor drug approvals for each subtype of thyroid cancer and a number of other commercially available drugs that have been studied for this indication. Although most of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs are antiangiogenic multikinase inhibitors-vandetanib, cabozantinib, sorafenib, lenvatinib-there are two FDA indications that are mutation specific-dabrafenib/trametinib for BRAF-mutated anaplastic thyroid cancer and larotrectinib for NTRK-fusion thyroid cancer. Furthermore, other mutation-specific drugs, immunotherapies, and novel strategies for advanced thyroid cancer are under investigation. Understanding the molecular basis of thyroid cancer, the drugs of interest for treatment of advanced thyroid cancer, and how these drugs can be administered safely and in the appropriate clinical scenario are the topics of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E Cabanillas
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Mabel Ryder
- Department of Endocrinology and Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Camilo Jimenez
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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32
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Jin Y, Liu M, Sa R, Fu H, Cheng L, Chen L. Mouse models of thyroid cancer: Bridging pathogenesis and novel therapeutics. Cancer Lett 2019; 469:35-53. [PMID: 31589905 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Due to a global increase in the incidence of thyroid cancer, numerous novel mouse models were established to reveal thyroid cancer pathogenesis and test promising therapeutic strategies, necessitating a comprehensive review of translational medicine that covers (i) the role of mouse models in the research of thyroid cancer pathogenesis, and (ii) preclinical testing of potential anti-thyroid cancer therapeutics. The present review article aims to: (i) describe the current approaches for mouse modeling of thyroid cancer, (ii) provide insight into the biology and genetics of thyroid cancers, and (iii) offer guidance on the use of mouse models for testing potential therapeutics in preclinical settings. Based on research with mouse models of thyroid cancer pathogenesis involving the RTK, RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, SRC, and JAK-STAT signaling pathways, inhibitors of VEGFR, MEK, mTOR, SRC, and STAT3 have been developed as anti-thyroid cancer drugs for "bench-to-bedside" translation. In the future, mouse models of thyroid cancer will be designed to be ''humanized" and "patient-like," offering opportunities to: (i) investigate the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer through target screening based on the CRISPR/Cas system, (ii) test drugs based on new mouse models, and (iii) explore the underlying mechanisms based on multi-omics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Jin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China; Department of Nuclear Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Rd, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Ri Sa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hao Fu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lin Cheng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
| | - Libo Chen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
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Molecular Alterations in Thyroid Cancer: From Bench to Clinical Practice. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10090709. [PMID: 31540307 PMCID: PMC6771012 DOI: 10.3390/genes10090709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer comprises different clinical and histological entities. Whereas differentiated (DTCs) malignancies are sensitive to radioiodine therapy, anaplastic (ATCs) and medullary (MTCs) tumors do not uptake radioactive iodine and display aggressive features associated with a poor prognosis. Moreover, in a majority of DTCs, disease evolution leads to the progressive loss of iodine sensitivity. Hence, iodine-refractory DTCs, along with ATCs and MTCs, require alternative treatments reflective of their different tumor biology. In the last decade, the molecular mechanisms promoting thyroid cancer development and progression have been extensively studied. This has led to a better understanding of the genomic landscape, displayed by thyroid malignancies, and to the identification of novel therapeutic targets. Indeed, several pharmacological compounds have been developed for iodine-refractory tumors, with four multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitors already available for DTCs (sorafenib and lenvatinib) and MTCs (cabozantib and vandetanib), and a plethora of drugs currently being evaluated in clinical trials. In this review, we will describe the genomic alterations and biological processes intertwined with thyroid cancer development, also providing a thorough overview of targeted drugs already tested or under investigation for these tumors. Furthermore, given the existing preclinical evidence, we will briefly discuss the potential role of immunotherapy as an additional therapeutic strategy for the treatment of thyroid cancer.
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Kurzrock R, Ball DW, Zahurak ML, Nelkin BD, Subbiah V, Ahmed S, O'Connor A, Karunsena E, Parkinson RM, Bishop JA, Ha Y, Sharma R, Gocke CD, Zinner R, Rudek MA, Sherman SI, Azad NS. A Phase I Trial of the VEGF Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Pazopanib in Combination with the MEK Inhibitor Trametinib in Advanced Solid Tumors and Differentiated Thyroid Cancers. Clin Cancer Res 2019; 25:5475-5484. [PMID: 31186313 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-18-1881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) responds to VEGF receptor inhibitors. VEGF signals through RAS/RAF/MEK signaling. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of the VEGF receptor inhibitor pazopanib and MEK inhibitor trametinib in advanced solid tumors and DTC. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with advanced solid tumors were enrolled in a phase I, multicenter trial with a DTC expansion cohort. Patients received pazopanib 400-800 mg and trametinib 1-2 mg daily. Efficacy in the expansion cohort was assessed with objective response (OR) at 6 months of treatment. RESULTS Twenty-six patients were enrolled in five dose levels. MTD was not reached; the recommended phase II dose was pazopanib 800 mg orally and trametinib 2 mg orally every day. There was one dose-limiting toxicity on dose level 1 with grade 3 fatigue and muscle weakness. Common grade 3 adverse events were elevated transaminases (19%), diarrhea (15%), hypertension (12%), and fatigue (8%). Thirteen patients were enrolled in the DTC cohort; OR was 33% (95% confidence interval, 9.9, 65.1%) and median progression-free survival was 10.7 months. The cohort was terminated after planned interim analysis suggested insufficiently increased activity against the historical control of pazopanib alone. Reduction in tumor diameter negatively correlated with p-ERK change in tumor (Spearman ρ = -0.71; P = 0.05). NRAS mutation was associated with response (Fisher exact P = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS Pazopanib + trametinib was tolerable at full single-agent doses with clinical activity in DTC but did not achieve the prespecified response rate target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razelle Kurzrock
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Douglas W Ball
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.,Division of Diabetes Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore Maryland
| | - Marianna L Zahurak
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Barry D Nelkin
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Vivek Subbiah
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Shabina Ahmed
- Division of Diabetes Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore Maryland
| | - Ashley O'Connor
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Enusha Karunsena
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Rose M Parkinson
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Justin A Bishop
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yoonji Ha
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Rajni Sharma
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Christopher D Gocke
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ralph Zinner
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Michelle A Rudek
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Steven I Sherman
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Nilofer S Azad
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.
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Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is rare but aggressive. It can be cured only if intrathyroid at diagnosis. MTC can be sporadic (75%) or familial (25%) and the 2 forms are distinguished by RET mutations analysis. Calcitonin is the specific serum marker; its doubling time is the most important prognostic factor for survival and progression; 30% of MTC patients have distant metastases at diagnosis and, when progressing, systemic therapy with vandetanib or cabozantinib should be considered. Before starting this treatment, the possibility of using a local treatment should be evaluated to delay systemic therapy. A multidisciplinary team should care for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Viola
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Paradisa 2, Pisa 56124, Italy
| | - Rossella Elisei
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Paradisa 2, Pisa 56124, Italy.
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Jayarangaiah A, Sidhu G, Brown J, Barrett-Campbell O, Bahtiyar G, Youssef I, Arora S, Skwiersky S, McFarlane SI. Therapeutic options for advanced thyroid cancer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGY AND METABOLISM 2019; 5:26-34. [PMID: 31709422 PMCID: PMC6839707 DOI: 10.17352/ijcem.000040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid cancer can be largely classified as well-differentiated, poorly differentiated, medullary and anaplastic. Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) includes follicular and papillary subtypes, with the incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) on the rise. The mainstay of treatment for DTC includes a combination of surgery, radioactive iodine (RAI) and levothyroxine suppression. DTC portends a favorable prognosis, even in the presence of distant metastases, with a 50% rate of 5-year survival largely due to tumor cell's sensitivity to RAI therapy influencing disease outcome. In radioactive iodine refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RAI-refractory DTC) there is a lower survival rate prompting the use of other therapeutic options available. RAI refractoriness is more common in older patients (age >40), large metastases and lesions that are fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) avid on position emission tomography (PET). Over the past decade, Identification of genetic mutations in the signaling pathway involved in thyroid tumorigenesis has led to the approval of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs); Sorafenib and Lenvatinib in RAI-refractory DTC. Similarly, metastatic medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) implies an unfavorable 10-year survival rate of only 20% as the principal treatment options focuses on loco regional control via surgical and/or non-surgical options. The approval of TKIs such as Cabozantinib and Vandetanib has introduced an encouraging, novel, systemic therapeutic option for metastatic MTC. Lastly, anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) carries the worst prognosis with high recurrence rates. Treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy and external beam radiation. The FDA recently approved Dabrafenib plus trametinib for BRAF V600E mutated ATC. Considering the modality of chemotherapy and the expanding field of targeted therapies, the role of the oncologist and interaction with endocrinologist in the management of thyroid cancer needs further clarification aiming at collaborative management plans more than ever. This review summarizes the key phase III trials that led to the approval of TKIs in the treatment of DTC and metastatic MTC. Additionally, the review aims to clarify the patient selection criteria for initiation of TKIs and examine the implications, considerations and adverse effects prior to utilizing targeted therapy. Clinical trials are ongoing with promising results and may contribute to the addition of several targeted molecules and immune check point inhibitors to the therapeutic armamentarium for RAI-refractory DTC, medullary and anaplastic thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apoorva Jayarangaiah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Albert Einstein School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Gurinder Sidhu
- Divisions of Endocrinology and Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Jordonna Brown
- Divisions of Endocrinology and Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Odeth Barrett-Campbell
- Divisions of Endocrinology and Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Gul Bahtiyar
- Department of Surgery, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Irini Youssef
- Department of Surgery, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Shalini Arora
- Department of Surgery, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Samara Skwiersky
- Divisions of Endocrinology and Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Samy I McFarlane
- Divisions of Endocrinology and Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA,Corresponding author: Samy I McFarlane, MD, MPH, MBA, FACP, Distinguished Teaching Professor and Associate Dean, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Internal Medicine Residency Program Director, State University of New York-Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Avenue, Box 50, Brooklyn, New York, 11203, USA, Tel: 718-270-3711; Fax: 718-270-6358;
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Saini S, Tulla K, Maker AV, Burman KD, Prabhakar BS. Therapeutic advances in anaplastic thyroid cancer: a current perspective. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:154. [PMID: 30352606 PMCID: PMC6198524 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0903-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer incidence is increasing at an alarming rate, almost tripling every decade. In 2017, it was the fifth most common cancer in women. Although the majority of thyroid tumors are curable, about 2-3% of thyroid cancers are refractory to standard treatments. These undifferentiated, highly aggressive and mostly chemo-resistant tumors are phenotypically-termed anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). ATCs are resistant to standard therapies and are extremely difficult to manage. In this review, we provide the information related to current and recently emerged first-line systemic therapy (Dabrafenib and Trametinib) along with promising therapeutics which are in clinical trials and may be incorporated into clinical practice in the future. Different categories of promising therapeutics such as Aurora kinase inhibitors, multi-kinase inhibitors, epigenetic modulators, gene therapy using oncolytic viruses, apoptosis-inducing agents, and immunotherapy are reviewed. Combination treatment options that showed synergistic and antagonistic effects are also discussed. We highlight ongoing clinical trials in ATC and discuss how personalized medicine is crucial to design the second line of treatment. Besides using conventional combination therapy, embracing a personalized approach based on advanced genomics and proteomics assessment will be crucial to developing a tailored treatment plan to improve the chances of clinical success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikha Saini
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois-College of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Kiara Tulla
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Illinois-College of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Ajay V. Maker
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois-College of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Illinois-College of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA
| | | | - Bellur S. Prabhakar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois-College of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL USA
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Pazopanib, Cabozantinib, and Vandetanib in the Treatment of Progressive Medullary Thyroid Cancer with a Special Focus on the Adverse Effects on Hypertension. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19103258. [PMID: 30347815 PMCID: PMC6214082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a rare malignancy with a poor prognosis. First line therapy is surgery, which is the only curative method of the disease. However, in non-operable cases or with tumor progression and metastases, a systemic treatment is necessary. This form of cancer is often insensitive to conventional chemotherapy, but the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), such as pazopanib, cabozantinib, and vandetanib, has shown promising results with an increase in progression-free survival and prolonged lifetime. Therefore, we focused on the pharmacological characteristics of TKIs, their mechanism of action, their application as a secondary treatment option for MTC, their efficacy as a cancer drug treatment, and reviewed the ongoing clinical trials. TKIs also act systemically causing various adverse events (AEs). One common AE of this treatment is hypertension, known to be associated with cardiovascular disease and can therefore potentially worsen the well-being of the treated patients. The available treatment strategies of drug-induced hypertension were discussed. The mechanism behind the development of hypertension is still unclear. Therefore, the treatment of this AE remains symptomatic. Thus, future studies are necessary to investigate the link between tumor growth inhibition and hypertension. In addition, optimized, individual treatment strategies should be implemented.
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Faggiano A, Modica R, Severino R, Camera L, Fonti R, Del Prete M, Chiofalo MG, Aria M, Ferolla P, Vitale G, Pezzullo L, Colao A. The antiproliferative effect of pasireotide LAR alone and in combination with everolimus in patients with medullary thyroid cancer: a single-center, open-label, phase II, proof-of-concept study. Endocrine 2018; 62:46-56. [PMID: 29572709 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-018-1583-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a neuroendocrine tumour of the thyroid C cells. Pasireotide, a multi-receptor targeted somatostatin analogue, and everolimus, an inhibitor of mTOR, showed antitumour properties in neuroendocrine tumours. Aim of this study was to evaluate pasireotide alone and in combination with everolimus in patients with MTC. METHODS Patients with progressive metastatic or persistent postoperative MTC received pasireotide LAR 60 mg/m for at least 6 months. Patients exhibiting progressive disease received everolimus 10 mg/d as combination therapy. Primary endpoint was progression free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included, overall survival, objective response rates, change in circulating markers, safety. Study registration no. NCT01625520. RESULTS Nineteen consecutive patients were enrolled. Median follow-up was 31 months. Median PFS with pasireotide was 36 months (95% CI: 19.5-52.5). Nine patients (47%) had tumour progression: seven of them started everolimus in combination with pasireotide, achieving a median PFS of 9.0 months (95% CI: 0-21.83). Five of them (71%) had further tumour progression, one objective response (14.3%), one stopped treatment because of pulmonary embolism. Pasireotide alone and with everolimus was safe and required withdrawal only in one case. Diarrhoea and hyperglycaemia were the most frequent adverse events with pasireotide (grade 3 in 5.3% each). Hyperglycaemia was the most frequent grade 3 toxicity with the combination therapy (28.6%). CONCLUSIONS Pasireotide therapy shows antiproliferative effects in persistent postoperative MTC suggesting further investigation on larger series of patients. In progressive MTC lesions, the combination pasireotide plus everolimus may be of benefit. Both schemes were safe and well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antongiulio Faggiano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
| | - Roberta Modica
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Severino
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Radiology, Section of Diagnostic Imaging, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Camera
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Radiology, Section of Diagnostic Imaging, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Fonti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimages - National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Del Prete
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, and Cancer Research Center, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
- Department of Medical Imaging, and Oncology Branch of Research Center, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, 11 côte du Palais, Quebec City (QC), G1R 2J6, Canada
| | - Maria Grazia Chiofalo
- Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo studio e la cura dei tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Aria
- Department of Economics and Statistics, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Piero Ferolla
- Department of Medical Oncology, Multidisciplinary NET Group, Umbria Regional Cancer Network and University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Luciano Pezzullo
- Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo studio e la cura dei tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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Tasoulas J, Tsourouflis G, Theocharis S. Neovascularization: an attractive but tricky target in thyroid cancer. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2018; 22:799-810. [DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2018.1513494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Tasoulas
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Tsourouflis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Grillo F, Florio T, Ferraù F, Kara E, Fanciulli G, Faggiano A, Colao A. Emerging multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment of neuroendocrine neoplasms. Endocr Relat Cancer 2018; 25:R453-R466. [PMID: 29769293 DOI: 10.1530/erc-17-0531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In the last few years, the therapeutic approach for neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) has changed dramatically following the approval of several novel targeted treatments. The multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitor (MTKI), sunitinib malate, has been approved by Regulatory Agencies in pancreatic NENs. The MTKI class, however, includes several other molecules (approved for other conditions), which are currently being studied in NENs. An in-depth review on the studies published on the MTKIs in neuroendocrine tumors such as axitinib, cabozantinib, famitinib, lenvatinib, nintedanib, pazopanib, sorafenib and sulfatinib was performed. Furthermore, we extensively searched on the Clinical Trial Registries databases worldwide, in order to collect information on the ongoing clinical trials related to this topic. Our systematic analysis on emerging MTKIs in the treatment of gastroenteropancreatic and lung NENs identifies in vitro and in vivo studies, which demonstrate anti-tumor activity of diverse MTKIs on neuroendocrine cells and tumors. Moreover, for the first time in the literature, we report an updated view concerning the upcoming clinical trials in this field: presently, phase I, II and III clinical trials are ongoing and will include, overall, a staggering 1667 patients. This fervid activity underlines the increasing interest of the scientific community in the use of emerging MTKIs in NEN treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Grillo
- Pathology UnitDepartment of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCSGenova, Italy
| | - Tullio Florio
- Pharmacology UnitDepartment of Internal Medicine (DIMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferraù
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and ChildhoodUniversity of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Elda Kara
- Unit of EndocrinologyMetabolism, Diabetology and Nutrition, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Fanciulli
- Neuroendocrine Tumours UnitDepartment of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Sassari - AOU Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Antongiulio Faggiano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and SurgeryUniversity 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and SurgeryUniversity 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
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Sanidas E, Papadopoulos DP, Velliou M, Tsioufis K, Mantzourani M, Iliopoulos D, Perrea D, Barbetseas J, Papademetriou V. The Role of Angiogenesis Inhibitors in Hypertension: Following "Ariadne's Thread". Am J Hypertens 2018; 31:961-969. [PMID: 29788148 DOI: 10.1093/ajh/hpy087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Arterial hypertension (HT) is one of the most frequently recorded comorbidities among patients under antiangiogenic therapy. Inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors are most commonly involved in new onset or exacerbation of pre-existing controlled HT. From the pathophysiology point of view, data support that reduced nitric oxide release and sodium and fluid retention, microvascular rarefaction, elevated vasoconstrictor levels, and globular injury might contribute to HT. The purpose of this review was to present recent evidence regarding the incidence of HT induced by antiangiogenic agents, to analyze the pathophysiological mechanisms, and to summarize current recommendations for the management of elevated blood pressure in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Sanidas
- Hypertension Excellence Centre—ESH, Department of Cardiology, LAIKO General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris P Papadopoulos
- Hypertension Excellence Centre—ESH, Department of Cardiology, LAIKO General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Velliou
- Hypertension Excellence Centre—ESH, Department of Cardiology, LAIKO General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas Tsioufis
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration Hospital, University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Marina Mantzourani
- First Department of Internal Medicine, LAIKO General Hospital, University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Iliopoulos
- Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research N.S.Christeas, University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Despoina Perrea
- Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research N.S.Christeas, University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - John Barbetseas
- Hypertension Excellence Centre—ESH, Department of Cardiology, LAIKO General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasilios Papademetriou
- Hypertension and Cardiovascular Research Clinic, Veterans Affairs and Georgetown University Medical Centers, Washington DC, USA
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Rajabi S, Hedayati M. Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Clinical Characteristics and New Insights into Therapeutic Strategies Targeting Tyrosine Kinases. Mol Diagn Ther 2018; 21:607-620. [PMID: 28698976 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-017-0289-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a hyperplasia of thyroid C-cells, accounting for 5-10% of all thyroid cancers. MTCs may appear as sporadic or hereditary forms, and several molecules and signaling pathways have been found to function defectively in MTC cells. Tyrosine kinases are the most well-studied molecules that have abnormal function in these tumor cells. Due to their limited response, chemotherapeutic agents and radiation therapy are not effective in treating patients with advanced metastatic MTC. In the past decade, significant attention has been given to the utilization of multikinase inhibitors as targeted therapeutic agents for treating MTC patients, with the most promising results arising from the study of tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which generally bind to the ATP binding sites of these kinases. Two drugs-vandetanib and cabozantinib-are approved for the treatment of aggressive advanced MTC; however, the potential for toxicities and adverse effects of these agents on patient quality of life need to be considered against any therapeutic gain. According to recent data, it appears that inhibition of only one receptor or molecule in a pathway is not as effective as simultaneous inhibition of different pathways, indicating the need to use combination therapy. The main purpose of this review is to describe the clinical characteristics, molecular mechanisms, and current molecular and targeted therapeutic strategies active in clinical trials for advanced MTC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Rajabi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Hedayati
- Cellular and Molecular Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Brose MS, Bible KC, Chow LQM, Gilbert J, Grande C, Worden F, Haddad R. Management of treatment-related toxicities in advanced medullary thyroid cancer. Cancer Treat Rev 2018; 66:64-73. [PMID: 29704768 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Progress in the treatment of advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) has resulted from the approval of 2 drugs within the past 5 years, vandetanib and cabozantinib. These multikinase inhibitors (MKIs) possess overlapping specificities for multiple kinase targets implicated in the progression of MTC. Both drugs are associated with toxicities, including hypertension, hemorrhage/perforation, diarrhea and other gastrointestinal events, several dermatologic events, and hypothyroidism. In addition, vandetanib is uniquely associated with QTc prolongation through interaction with myocardial potassium channels, and cabozantinib is uniquely associated with hand-foot skin reaction. Treatment-related toxicities occur frequently and can be severe or life-threatening, and patients undergoing long-term treatment will likely experience adverse events (AEs). Here we offer specific practical recommendations for managing AEs commonly occurring with vandetanib and cabozantinib. The recommended approach relies on early recognition and palliation of symptoms, dose interruption, and dose reduction as necessary in order for the patient to maintain the highest tolerable dose for as long as possible and optimal quality of life. Treatment guidelines do not specify a recommended sequence for treating with vandetanib and cabozantinib; however, most patients will receive both drugs during their lifetime. The choice for first-line therapy is individualized after a risk-benefit assessment and depends on physician preference and patient-related factors, such as comorbid conditions. Because most generalist practices may not be familiar with the intricacies of agents such as vandetanib and cabozantinib, we commend that patients with advanced MTC be managed and treated by a thyroid cancer specialist with coordination of care within a multidisciplinary team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia S Brose
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and the Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, United States
| | | | | | | | - Carolyn Grande
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and the Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, United States
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Redaelli S, Plaza-Menacho I, Mologni L. Novel targeted therapeutics for MEN2. Endocr Relat Cancer 2018; 25:T53-T68. [PMID: 29348306 DOI: 10.1530/erc-17-0297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The rearranged during transfection (RET) proto-oncogene was recognized as the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) causing gene in 1993. Since then, much effort has been put into a clear understanding of its oncogenic signaling, its biochemical function and ways to block its aberrant activation in MEN2 and related cancers. Several small molecules have been designed, developed or redirected as RET inhibitors for the treatment of MEN2 and sporadic MTC. However, current drugs are mostly active against several other kinases, as they were not originally developed for RET. This limits efficacy and poses safety issues. Therefore, there is still much to do to improve targeted MEN2 treatments. New, more potent and selective molecules, or combinatorial strategies may lead to more effective therapies in the near future. Here, we review the rationale for RET targeting in MEN2, the use of currently available drugs and novel preclinical and clinical RET inhibitor candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Redaelli
- School of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Luca Mologni
- School of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
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Chellappan DK, Chellian J, Ng ZY, Sim YJ, Theng CW, Ling J, Wong M, Foo JH, Yang GJ, Hang LY, Nathan S, Singh Y, Gupta G. The role of pazopanib on tumour angiogenesis and in the management of cancers: A review. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 96:768-781. [PMID: 29054093 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.10.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pazopanib is a relatively new compound to be introduced into the chemotherapy field. It is thought to have decent anti-angiogenic properties, which gives an additional hope for the treatment of certain types of cancers. A systematic review solely discussing about pazopanib and its anti-angiogenic effect is yet to be published to date, despite several relevant clinical trials being conducted over the recent years. In this review, we aim to investigate the mechanism of pazopanib's anti-angiogenic effect and its effectiveness in treating several cancers. We have included, in this study, findings from electronically searchable data from randomized clinical trials, clinical studies, cohort studies and other relevant articles. A total of 352 studies were included in this review. From the studies, the effect of pazopanib in various cancers or models was observed and recorded. Study quality is indefinite, with a few decent quality articles. The most elaborately studied cancers include renal cell carcinoma, solid tumors, advanced solid tumors, soft tissue sarcoma, breast cancer and gynecological cancers. In addition, several less commonly studied cancers are included in the studies as well. Pazopanib had demonstrated its anti-angiogenic effect based on favorable results observed in cancers, which are caused by angiogenesis-related mechanisms, such as renal cell carcinoma, solid tumors, advanced solid tumors and soft tissue sarcoma. This review was conducted to study, analyze and review the anti-angiogenic properties of pazopanib in various cancers. The results obtained can provide a decent reference when considering treatment options for angiogenesis-related malignancies. Furthermore, the definite observations of the anti-angiogenic effects of pazopanib could provide newer insights leading to the future development of drugs of the same mechanism with increased efficiency and reduced adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Kumar Chellappan
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Jestin Chellian
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Zhao Yin Ng
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jagatpura, Jaipur, 302017, India
| | - Yan Jinn Sim
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Chiu Wei Theng
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Joyce Ling
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Mei Wong
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Jia Hui Foo
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Goh Jun Yang
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Li Yu Hang
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Saranyah Nathan
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Yogendra Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jagatpura, Jaipur, 302017, India
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jagatpura, Jaipur, 302017, India.
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Mingard C, Paech F, Bouitbir J, Krähenbühl S. Mechanisms of toxicity associated with six tyrosine kinase inhibitors in human hepatocyte cell lines. J Appl Toxicol 2017; 38:418-431. [PMID: 29072336 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of certain cancers. They are usually well tolerated, but can cause adverse reactions including liver injury. Currently, mechanisms of hepatotoxicity associated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors are only partially clarified. We therefore aimed at investigating the toxicity of regorafenib, sorafenib, ponatinib, crizotinib, dasatinib and pazopanib on HepG2 and partially on HepaRG cells. Regorafenib and sorafenib strongly inhibited oxidative metabolism (measured by the Seahorse-XF24 analyzer) and glycolysis, decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential and induced apoptosis and/or necrosis of HepG2 cells at concentrations similar to steady-state plasma concentrations in humans. In HepaRG cells, pretreatment with rifampicin decreased membrane toxicity (measured as adenylate kinase release) and dissipation of adenosine triphosphate stores, indicating that toxicity was associated mainly with the parent drugs. Ponatinib strongly impaired oxidative metabolism but only weakly glycolysis, and induced apoptosis of HepG2 cells at concentrations higher than steady-state plasma concentrations in humans. Crizotinib and dasatinib did not significantly affect mitochondrial functions and inhibited glycolysis only weakly, but induced apoptosis of HepG2 cells. Pazopanib was associated with a weak increase in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species accumulation and inhibition of glycolysis without being cytotoxic. In conclusion, regorafenib and sorafenib are strong mitochondrial toxicants and inhibitors of glycolysis at clinically relevant concentrations. Ponatinib affects mitochondria and glycolysis at higher concentrations than reached in plasma (but possibly in liver), whereas crizotinib, dasatinib and pazopanib showed no relevant toxicity. Mitochondrial toxicity and inhibition of glycolysis most likely explain hepatotoxicity associated with regorafenib, sorafenib and possibly pazopanib, but not for the other compounds investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Mingard
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Franziska Paech
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jamal Bouitbir
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Switzerland.,Swiss Centre of Applied Human Toxicology, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Krähenbühl
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Switzerland.,Swiss Centre of Applied Human Toxicology, Switzerland
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Priya SR, Dravid CS, Digumarti R, Dandekar M. Targeted Therapy for Medullary Thyroid Cancer: A Review. Front Oncol 2017; 7:238. [PMID: 29057215 PMCID: PMC5635342 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2017.00238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancers (MTCs) constitute between 2 and 5% of all thyroid cancers. The 10-year overall survival (OS) rate of patients with localized disease is around 95% while that of patients with regional stage disease is about 75%. Only 20% of patients with distant metastases at diagnosis survive 10 years which is significantly lower than for differentiated thyroid cancers. Cases with regional metastases at presentation have high recurrence rates. Adjuvant external radiation confers local control but not improved OS. The management of residual, recurrent, or metastatic disease till a few years ago was re-surgery with local measures such as radiation. Chemotherapy was used with marginal benefit. The development of targeted therapy has brought in a major advantage in management of such patients. Two drugs—vandetanib and cabozantinib—have been approved for use in progressive or metastatic MTC. In addition, several drugs acting on other steps of the molecular pathway are being investigated with promising results. Targeted radionuclide therapy also provides an effective treatment option with good quality of life. This review covers the rationale of targeted therapy for MTC, present treatment options, drugs and methods under investigation, as well as an outline of the adverse effects and their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Priya
- Head Neck Surgery, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Visakhapatnam, India.,Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Chandra Shekhar Dravid
- Head Neck Surgery, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Visakhapatnam, India.,Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Raghunadharao Digumarti
- Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India.,Medical Oncology, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Visakhapatnam, India
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Dai J, Belum VR, Wu S, Sibaud V, Lacouture ME. Pigmentary changes in patients treated with targeted anticancer agents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2017; 77:902-910.e2. [PMID: 28918974 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.06.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The discovery of signaling networks that drive oncogenic processes has led to the development of targeted anticancer agents. The burden of pigmentary adverse events from these drugs is unknown. OBJECTIVE To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of published clinical trials and determine the incidence and risk of development of targeted therapy-induced pigmentary changes. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted to identify studies reporting targeted therapy-induced pigmentary changes. The incidence and relative risk were calculated. Case reports and series were reviewed to understand clinical characteristics. RESULTS A total of 8052 patients from 36 clinical trials were included. The calculated overall incidences of targeted cancer therapy-induced all-grade pigmentary changes in the skin and hair were 17.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 11.9-25.4) and 21.5% (95% CI, 14.9-30.1), respectively. The relative risk of all-grade pigmentary changes of skin and hair were 93.7 (95% CI, 5.86-1497.164) and 20.1 (95% CI, 8.35-48.248). Across 53 case reports/series (N = 75 patients), epidermal growth factor receptor and breakpoint cluster region-abelson inhibitors were the most common offending agents. LIMITATIONS Potential under-reporting and variability in oncologists reporting these events. CONCLUSION There is a significant risk of development of pigmentary changes during treatment with targeted anticancer therapies. Appropriate counseling and management are critical to minimize psychosocial impairment and deterioration in quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Dai
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Dermatology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Viswanath R Belum
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Shenhong Wu
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Stony Brook, New York; Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northport Veterans Administration Medical Center, Northport, New York
| | - Vincent Sibaud
- Department of Dermatology, Institut Claudius Regaud-Institut Universitaire du Cancer, Toulouse Oncopole, France
| | - Mario E Lacouture
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
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Krajewska J, Gawlik T, Jarzab B. Advances in small molecule therapy for treating metastatic thyroid cancer. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2017; 18:1049-1060. [PMID: 28602103 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2017.1340939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multi kinase inhibitors (MKIs) are new drugs, which show activity against receptors of different growth factors leading to the inhibition of tumor cells growth and proliferation. This review summarizes a 10-year experience with the use of MKIs in thyroid cancer (TC). It focuses not only on sorafenib, lenvatinib, vandetanib and cabozantinib, already approved in TC, but also presents an overview of the results of different trials with distinct MKIs so far carried out in TC. Areas covered: Published results of phase I, II and III studies and other reports evaluated the efficacy of different targeted drugs in TC. Expert opinion: Despite numerous clinical trials with distinct MKIs, only four of them unequivocally demonstrated a beneficial effect on progression free survival in radioiodine refractory differentiated or medullary TC. In contrast to other solid tumors, we are still lacking in convincing evidences of their impact on overall survival. We still do not have any strong proof fulfilling evidence-based medicine criteria, when to start MKIs and which drug to use. The questions whether we really have to wait for disease progression in patients with a large tumor burden and/or aggressive types TC or when to stop MKIs treatment remain open.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta Krajewska
- a Nuclear Medicine and Endocrine Oncology Department , Maria Skłodowska-Curie Memorial Institute and Cancer Center , Gliwice Branch, Gliwice , Poland
| | - Tomasz Gawlik
- a Nuclear Medicine and Endocrine Oncology Department , Maria Skłodowska-Curie Memorial Institute and Cancer Center , Gliwice Branch, Gliwice , Poland
| | - Barbara Jarzab
- a Nuclear Medicine and Endocrine Oncology Department , Maria Skłodowska-Curie Memorial Institute and Cancer Center , Gliwice Branch, Gliwice , Poland
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