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Doll S, Schweizer L, Bollwein C, Steiger K, Pfarr N, Walker M, Wörtler K, Knebel C, von Eisenhart-Rothe R, Hartmann W, Weichert W, Mann M, Kuhn PH, Specht K. Proteomic Characterization of Undifferentiated Small Round Cell Sarcomas With EWSR1 and CIC::DUX4 Translocations Reveals Diverging Tumor Biology and Distinct Diagnostic Markers. Mod Pathol 2024; 37:100511. [PMID: 38705279 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2024.100511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Undifferentiated small round cell sarcomas (USRS) of bone and soft tissue are a group of tumors with heterogenic genomic alterations sharing similar morphology. In the present study, we performed a comparative large-scale proteomic analysis of USRS (n = 42) with diverse genomic translocations including classic Ewing sarcomas with EWSR1::FLI1 fusions (n = 24) or EWSR1::ERG fusions (n = 4), sarcomas with an EWSR1 rearrangement (n = 2), CIC::DUX4 fusion (n = 8), as well as tumors classified as USRS with no genetic data available (n = 4). Proteins extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded pretherapeutic biopsies were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively using shotgun mass spectrometry (MS). More than 8000 protein groups could be quantified using data-independent acquisition. Unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis based on proteomic data allowed stratification of the 42 cases into distinct groups reflecting the different molecular genotypes. Protein signatures that significantly correlated with the respective genomic translocations were identified and used to generate a heatmap of all 42 sarcomas with assignment of cases with unknown molecular genetic data to either the EWSR1- or CIC-rearranged groups. MS-based prediction of sarcoma subtypes was molecularly confirmed in 2 cases where next-generation sequencing was technically feasible. MS also detected proteins routinely used in the immunohistochemical approach for the differential diagnosis of USRS. BCL11B highly expressed in Ewing sarcomas, and BACH2 as well as ETS-1 highly expressed in CIC::DUX4-associated sarcomas, were among proteins identified by the present proteomic study, and were chosen for immunohistochemical confirmation of MS data in our study cohort. Differential expressions of these 3 markers in the 2 genetic groups were further validated in an independent cohort of n = 34 USRS. Finally, our proteomic results point toward diverging signaling pathways in the different USRS subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Doll
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Bavaria, Germany; OmicEra Diagnostics GmbH, Planegg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Lisa Schweizer
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Bavaria, Germany
| | | | - Katja Steiger
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nicole Pfarr
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Walker
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Klaus Wörtler
- Musculoskeletal Radiology Section, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Carolin Knebel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Wilko Weichert
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner-site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Mann
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Peer-Hendrik Kuhn
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katja Specht
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
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2
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Owen LA, Zhang C, Shirer K, Carroll L, Wood B, Szczotka K, Cornia C, Stubben C, Fung C, Yost CC, Katikaneni LD, DeAngelis MM, Comstock J. Placental Inflammation Significantly Correlates with Reduced Risk for Retinopathy of Prematurity. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1776-1788. [PMID: 36822266 PMCID: PMC10616712 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a blinding condition affecting preterm infants, is an interruption of retinal vascular maturation that is incomplete when born preterm. Although ROP demonstrates delayed onset following preterm birth, representing a window for therapeutic intervention, there are no curative or preventative measures available for this condition. The in utero environment, including placental function, is increasingly recognized for contributions to preterm infant disease risk. The current study identified a protective association between acute placental inflammation and preterm infant ROP development using logistic regression, with the most significant association found for infants without gestational exposure to maternal preeclampsia and those with earlier preterm birth. Expression analysis of proteins with described ROP risk associations demonstrated significantly decreased placental high temperature requirement A serine peptidase-1 (HTRA-1) and fatty acid binding protein 4 protein expression in infants with acute placental inflammation compared with those without. Within the postnatal peripheral circulation, HTRA-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A demonstrated inverse longitudinal trends for infants born in the presence of, compared with absence of, acute placental inflammation. An agnostic approach, including whole transcriptome and differential methylation placental analysis, further identify novel mediators and pathways that may underly protection. Taken together, these data build on emerging literature showing a protective association between acute placental inflammation and ROP development and identify novel mechanisms that may inform postnatal risk associations in preterm infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah A Owen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; Department of Ophthalmology, University at Buffalo/State University of New York, Buffalo, New York.
| | - Charles Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University at Buffalo/State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | - Kinsey Shirer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Lara Carroll
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Blair Wood
- Retina Associates of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kathryn Szczotka
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Colette Cornia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Christopher Stubben
- Department of Bioinformatics, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Camille Fung
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Christian C Yost
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Lakshmi D Katikaneni
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Margaret M DeAngelis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University at Buffalo/State University of New York, Buffalo, New York; Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo/State University of New York, Buffalo, New York; Department of Neuroscience, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo/State University of New York, Buffalo, New York; Department of Genetics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo/State University of New York, Buffalo, New York; Bioinformatics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo/State University of New York, Buffalo, New York.
| | - Jessica Comstock
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Nakamura H, Arihara Y, Takada K. Targeting STEAP1 as an anticancer strategy. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1285661. [PMID: 37909017 PMCID: PMC10613890 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1285661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 1 (STEAP1) was first identified in advanced prostate cancer, its overexpression is recognized in multiple types of cancer and associated with a poor prognosis. STEAP1 is now drawing attention as a promising therapeutic target because of its tumor specificity and membrane-bound localization. The clinical efficacy of an antibody-drug conjugate targeting STEAP1 in metastatic, castration-resistant, prostate cancer was demonstrated in a phase 1 trial. Furthermore, growing evidence suggests that STEAP1 is an attractive target for immunotherapies such as chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapy. In this review, we summarize the oncogenic functions of STEAP1 by cancer type. This review also provides new insights into the development of new anticancer strategies targeting STEAP1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kohichi Takada
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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Yasir M, Park J, Chun W. EWS/FLI1 Characterization, Activation, Repression, Target Genes and Therapeutic Opportunities in Ewing Sarcoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15173. [PMID: 37894854 PMCID: PMC10607184 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite their clonal origins, tumors eventually develop into complex communities made up of phenotypically different cell subpopulations, according to mounting evidence. Tumor cell-intrinsic programming and signals from geographically and temporally changing microenvironments both contribute to this variability. Furthermore, the mutational load is typically lacking in childhood malignancies of adult cancers, and they still exhibit high cellular heterogeneity levels largely mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. Ewing sarcomas represent highly aggressive malignancies affecting both bone and soft tissue, primarily afflicting adolescents. Unfortunately, the outlook for patients facing relapsed or metastatic disease is grim. These tumors are primarily fueled by a distinctive fusion event involving an FET protein and an ETS family transcription factor, with the most prevalent fusion being EWS/FLI1. Despite originating from a common driver mutation, Ewing sarcoma cells display significant variations in transcriptional activity, both within and among tumors. Recent research has pinpointed distinct fusion protein activities as a principal source of this heterogeneity, resulting in markedly diverse cellular phenotypes. In this review, we aim to characterize the role of the EWS/FLI fusion protein in Ewing sarcoma by exploring its general mechanism of activation and elucidating its implications for tumor heterogeneity. Additionally, we delve into potential therapeutic opportunities to target this aberrant fusion protein in the context of Ewing sarcoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wanjoo Chun
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (M.Y.); (J.P.)
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Tan K, Lu W, Chen F, Shi H, Ma Y, Chen Z, Wu W, Lv Z, Mo J. CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screening identifies KIAA1429 as an essential gene in Ewing sarcoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:250. [PMID: 37759224 PMCID: PMC10537923 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02828-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ewing sarcoma (ES) is an aggressive childhood bone and soft tissue cancer. KIAA1429 is one type of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) writer that plays a tumor-progressive role in various cancers, but the role of KIAA1429 in ES remains to be elucidated. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of KIAA1429 in ES. METHODS We performed a multi-omic screen including CRISPR-Cas9 functional genomic and transcriptomic approaches, and identified that KIAA1429 played a significant role in ES progression. Gene knockdown, quantitative real-time PCR (Q-RT-PCR), immunoblotting, CellTiter-Glo assays, clonogenic assays, a subcutaneous xenograft model and immunohistochemistry were used to assess the functional role of KIAA1429 in ES. We mainly conducted RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) in ES cells to analyze the downstream regulatory mechanism of KIAA1429. An integrative analysis of chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) and RNA-seq indicated the upstream regulatory mechanism of KIAA1429. RESULTS In vitro and in vivo CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screening identified KIAA1429 as an ES-dependent gene. Genetic suppression of KIAA1429 inhibited ES cell proliferation and tumorigenicity both in vitro and in vivo. Further studies revealed that KIAA1429 promotes ES tumorigenesis by regulating the ribosome-associated cell cycle and cancer-related inflammation. Interestingly, we found that STAT3 was a target of KIAA1429 and that a STAT3 inhibitor reduced KIAA1429 transcript levels, indicating positive feedback between KIAA1429 and STAT3. Finally, we found that NKX2-2 bound to the KIAA1429 promoter and transactivated KIAA1429. CONCLUSION Our study systematically analyzed ES-dependent epigenetic/transcriptional regulatory genes and identified KIAA1429 as a biomarker of tumor progression in ES, providing a potential therapeutic target for treating ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kezhe Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjie Lu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histoembryology, Genetics and Developmental Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingxuan Ma
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhou Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhibao Lv
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jialin Mo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histoembryology, Genetics and Developmental Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Gong H, Xue B, Ru J, Pei G, Li Y. Targeted Therapy for EWS-FLI1 in Ewing Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4035. [PMID: 37627063 PMCID: PMC10452796 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164035] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (EwS) is a rare and predominantly pediatric malignancy of bone and soft tissue in children and adolescents. Although international collaborations have greatly improved the prognosis of most EwS, the occurrence of macrometastases or relapse remains challenging. The prototypic oncogene EWS-FLI1 acts as an aberrant transcription factor that drives the cellular transformation of EwS. In addition to its involvement in RNA splicing and the DNA damage response, this chimeric protein directly binds to GGAA repeats, thereby modifying the transcriptional profile of EwS. Direct pharmacological targeting of EWS-FLI1 is difficult because of its intrinsically disordered structure. However, targeting the EWS-FLI1 protein complex or downstream pathways provides additional therapeutic options. This review describes the EWS-FLI1 protein partners and downstream pathways, as well as the related target therapies for the treatment of EwS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helong Gong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang 110004, China;
| | - Busheng Xue
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China;
| | - Jinlong Ru
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Centre Munich, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany;
| | - Guoqing Pei
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China;
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang 110004, China;
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Yu L, Davis IJ, Liu P. Regulation of EWSR1-FLI1 Function by Post-Transcriptional and Post-Translational Modifications. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:382. [PMID: 36672331 PMCID: PMC9857208 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is the second most common bone tumor in childhood and adolescence. Currently, first-line therapy includes multidrug chemotherapy with surgery and/or radiation. Although most patients initially respond to chemotherapy, recurrent tumors become treatment refractory. Pathologically, Ewing sarcoma consists of small round basophilic cells with prominent nuclei marked by expression of surface protein CD99. Genetically, Ewing sarcoma is driven by a fusion oncoprotein that results from one of a small number of chromosomal translocations composed of a FET gene and a gene encoding an ETS family transcription factor, with ~85% of tumors expressing the EWSR1::FLI1 fusion. EWSR1::FLI1 regulates transcription, splicing, genome instability and other cellular functions. Although a tumor-specific target, EWSR1::FLI1-targeted therapy has yet to be developed, largely due to insufficient understanding of EWSR1::FLI1 upstream and downstream signaling, and the challenges in targeting transcription factors with small molecules. In this review, we summarize the contemporary molecular understanding of Ewing sarcoma, and the post-transcriptional and post-translational regulatory mechanisms that control EWSR1::FLI1 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Yu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ian J. Davis
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Genetics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Pengda Liu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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8
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Orth MF, Surdez D, Faehling T, Ehlers AC, Marchetto A, Grossetête S, Volckmann R, Zwijnenburg DA, Gerke JS, Zaidi S, Alonso J, Sastre A, Baulande S, Sill M, Cidre-Aranaz F, Ohmura S, Kirchner T, Hauck SM, Reischl E, Gymrek M, Pfister SM, Strauch K, Koster J, Delattre O, Grünewald TGP. Systematic multi-omics cell line profiling uncovers principles of Ewing sarcoma fusion oncogene-mediated gene regulation. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111761. [PMID: 36476851 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (EwS) is characterized by EWSR1-ETS fusion transcription factors converting polymorphic GGAA microsatellites (mSats) into potent neo-enhancers. Although the paucity of additional mutations makes EwS a genuine model to study principles of cooperation between dominant fusion oncogenes and neo-enhancers, this is impeded by the limited number of well-characterized models. Here we present the Ewing Sarcoma Cell Line Atlas (ESCLA), comprising whole-genome, DNA methylation, transcriptome, proteome, and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) data of 18 cell lines with inducible EWSR1-ETS knockdown. The ESCLA shows hundreds of EWSR1-ETS-targets, the nature of EWSR1-ETS-preferred GGAA mSats, and putative indirect modes of EWSR1-ETS-mediated gene regulation, converging in the duality of a specific but plastic EwS signature. We identify heterogeneously regulated EWSR1-ETS-targets as potential prognostic EwS biomarkers. Our freely available ESCLA (http://r2platform.com/escla/) is a rich resource for EwS research and highlights the power of comprehensive datasets to unravel principles of heterogeneous gene regulation by chimeric transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin F Orth
- Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | - Didier Surdez
- INSERM Unit 830 "Genetics and Biology of Cancers," Institut Curie Research Center, 75005 Paris, France; Balgrist University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zürich, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Faehling
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna C Ehlers
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Aruna Marchetto
- Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | - Sandrine Grossetête
- INSERM Unit 830 "Genetics and Biology of Cancers," Institut Curie Research Center, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Richard Volckmann
- Department of Oncogenomics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (AUMC), 1105 Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Danny A Zwijnenburg
- Department of Oncogenomics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (AUMC), 1105 Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Julia S Gerke
- Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | - Sakina Zaidi
- INSERM Unit 830 "Genetics and Biology of Cancers," Institut Curie Research Center, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Javier Alonso
- Unidad de Tumores Sólidos Infantiles, Instituto de Investigación de Enfermedades Raras, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CB06/07/1009, CIBERER-ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Sastre
- Unidad Hemato-oncología Pediátrica, Hospital Infantil Universitario La Paz, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sylvain Baulande
- Institut Curie Genomics of Excellence (ICGex) Platform, Institut Curie Research Center, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Martin Sill
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Florencia Cidre-Aranaz
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Shunya Ohmura
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Kirchner
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie M Hauck
- Research Unit Protein Science and Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Eva Reischl
- Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Melissa Gymrek
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA; Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Stefan M Pfister
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Konstantin Strauch
- Institute of Medical Biometry, Epidemiology, and Informatics (IMBEI), University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany; Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany; Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry, and Epidemiology (IBE), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Jan Koster
- Department of Oncogenomics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (AUMC), 1105 Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Olivier Delattre
- INSERM Unit 830 "Genetics and Biology of Cancers," Institut Curie Research Center, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Thomas G P Grünewald
- Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany; Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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9
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Apfelbaum AA, Wrenn ED, Lawlor ER. The importance of fusion protein activity in Ewing sarcoma and the cell intrinsic and extrinsic factors that regulate it: A review. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1044707. [PMID: 36505823 PMCID: PMC9727305 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1044707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence shows that despite clonal origins tumors eventually become complex communities comprised of phenotypically distinct cell subpopulations. This heterogeneity arises from both tumor cell intrinsic programs and signals from spatially and temporally dynamic microenvironments. While pediatric cancers usually lack the mutational burden of adult cancers, they still exhibit high levels of cellular heterogeneity that are largely mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. Ewing sarcomas are aggressive bone and soft tissue malignancies with peak incidence in adolescence and the prognosis for patients with relapsed and metastatic disease is dismal. Ewing sarcomas are driven by a single pathognomonic fusion between a FET protein and an ETS family transcription factor, the most common of which is EWS::FLI1. Despite sharing a single driver mutation, Ewing sarcoma cells demonstrate a high degree of transcriptional heterogeneity both between and within tumors. Recent studies have identified differential fusion protein activity as a key source of this heterogeneity which leads to profoundly different cellular phenotypes. Paradoxically, increased invasive and metastatic potential is associated with lower EWS::FLI1 activity. Here, we review what is currently understood about EWS::FLI1 activity, the cell autonomous and tumor microenvironmental factors that regulate it, and the downstream consequences of these activity states on tumor progression. We specifically highlight how transcription factor regulation, signaling pathway modulation, and the extracellular matrix intersect to create a complex network of tumor cell phenotypes. We propose that elucidation of the mechanisms by which these essential elements interact will enable the development of novel therapeutic approaches that are designed to target this complexity and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elizabeth R. Lawlor
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute and Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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10
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Kitagawa T, Kobayashi D, Baron B, Okita H, Miyamoto T, Takai R, Paudel D, Ohta T, Asaoka Y, Tokunaga M, Nakagawa K, Furutani-Seiki M, Araki N, Kuramitsu Y, Kobayashi M. AT-hook DNA-binding motif-containing protein one knockdown downregulates EWS-FLI1 transcriptional activity in Ewing's sarcoma cells. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269077. [PMID: 36194562 PMCID: PMC9531837 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma is the second most common bone malignancy in children or young adults and is caused by an oncogenic transcription factor by a chromosomal translocation between the EWSR1 gene and the ETS transcription factor family. However, the transcriptional mechanism of EWS-ETS fusion proteins is still unclear. To identify the transcriptional complexes of EWS-ETS fusion transcription factors, we applied a proximal labeling system called BioID in Ewing's sarcoma cells. We identified AHDC1 as a proximal protein of EWS-ETS fusion proteins. AHDC1 knockdown showed a reduced cell growth and transcriptional activity of EWS-FLI1. AHDC1 knockdown also reduced BRD4 and BRG1 protein levels, both known as interacting proteins of EWS-FLI1. Our results suggest that AHDC1 supports cell growth through EWS-FLI1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takao Kitagawa
- Advanced Research Promotion Center, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Kanazawa, Ishikari-Tobetsu, Hokkaido, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Daiki Kobayashi
- Department of Omics and Systems Biology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
- Department of Tumor Genetics and Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto-Shi, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Byron Baron
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Biobanking, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Hajime Okita
- Division of Diagnostic Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinano, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Miyamoto
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Rie Takai
- Advanced Research Promotion Center, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Kanazawa, Ishikari-Tobetsu, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Durga Paudel
- Advanced Research Promotion Center, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Kanazawa, Ishikari-Tobetsu, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Tohru Ohta
- Advanced Research Promotion Center, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Kanazawa, Ishikari-Tobetsu, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Yoichi Asaoka
- Department of Systems Biochemistry in Pathology and Regeneration, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Masayuki Tokunaga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Koji Nakagawa
- Advanced Research Promotion Center, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Kanazawa, Ishikari-Tobetsu, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Makoto Furutani-Seiki
- Department of Systems Biochemistry in Pathology and Regeneration, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Norie Araki
- Department of Tumor Genetics and Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto-Shi, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Kuramitsu
- Advanced Research Promotion Center, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Kanazawa, Ishikari-Tobetsu, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Masanobu Kobayashi
- Advanced Research Promotion Center, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Kanazawa, Ishikari-Tobetsu, Hokkaido, Japan
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11
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Guo AW, Liu YS, Li H, Yuan Y, Li SX. Ewing sarcoma of the ileum with wide multiorgan metastases: A case report and review of literature. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2022; 14:1585-1593. [PMID: 36160753 PMCID: PMC9412928 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v14.i8.1585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ewing sarcoma (ES) is an aggressive small round cell tumor that usually occurs in younger children and young adults but rarely in older patients. Its occurrence in elderly individuals is rare. ES of the ileum with wide multiorgan metastases is rarely reported and difficult to distinguish radiologically from other gastrointestinal tract tumors.
CASE SUMMARY A 53-year-old man presented with right lower quadrant pain for 2 wk. Computed tomography results showed a heterogeneous mass within the ileum and widespread multiorgan metastases. This mass was biopsied, and pathological examination of the resected specimen revealed features consistent with an extraskeletal ES.
CONCLUSION This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing this rare presentation in the small intestine to broaden the differential diagnosis of adult intraabdominal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Wen Guo
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Radiology, Chengdu Women's and Children's Central Hospital, School of Medicine, Chengdu 611731, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yi-Sha Liu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Hang Li
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yi Yuan
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Si-Xun Li
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan Province, China
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12
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Lanzi C, Cassinelli G. Combinatorial strategies to potentiate the efficacy of HDAC inhibitors in fusion-positive sarcomas. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 198:114944. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.114944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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13
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Pisapia P, Pepe F, Sgariglia R, Nacchio M, Russo G, Gragnano G, Conticelli F, Salatiello M, De Luca C, Girolami I, Eccher A, Iaccarino A, Bellevicine C, Vigliar E, Malapelle U, Troncone G. Methods for actionable gene fusion detection in lung cancer: now and in the future. Pharmacogenomics 2021; 22:833-847. [PMID: 34525844 DOI: 10.2217/pgs-2021-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Although gene fusions occur rarely in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, they represent a relevant target in treatment decision algorithms. To date, immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization are the two principal methods used in clinical trials. However, using these methods in routine clinical practice is often impractical and time consuming because they can only analyze single genes and the quantity of tissue material is often insufficient. Thus, novel technologies, able to test multiple genes in a single run with minimal sample input, are being under investigation. Here, we discuss the utility of next-generation sequencing and nCounter technologies in detecting simultaneous gene fusions in NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Pisapia
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Pepe
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Sgariglia
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariantonia Nacchio
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluca Russo
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gragnano
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Floriana Conticelli
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Salatiello
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina De Luca
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria Girolami
- Division of Pathology, Central Hospital Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Albino Eccher
- Department of Pathology & Diagnostics, University & Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonino Iaccarino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Bellevicine
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Vigliar
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Umberto Malapelle
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Troncone
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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14
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Markey FB, Romero B, Parashar V, Batish M. Identification of a New Transcriptional Co-Regulator of STEAP1 in Ewing's Sarcoma. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061300. [PMID: 34073779 PMCID: PMC8225120 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing’s sarcoma (ES) is caused by a chromosomal translocation leading to the formation of the fused EWSFLI1 gene, which codes for an aberrant transcription factor EWSFLI1. The transcriptional targets of EWSFLI1 have been viewed as promising and novel drug targets in the treatment of ES. One such target is six transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate 1 (STEAP1), a transmembrane protein that is upregulated by EWSFLI1 in ES. STEAP1 is a hallmark of tumor invasiveness and an indicator of tumor responsiveness to therapy. EWSFLI1 binds to the STEAP1 promoter region, but the mechanism of action by which it upregulates STEAP1 expression in ES is not entirely understood. Upon analysis of the STEAP1 promoter, we predicted two binding sites for NKX2.2, another crucial transcription factor involved in ES pathogenesis. We confirmed the interaction of NKX2.2 with the STEAP1 promoter using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis. We used single-molecule RNA imaging, biochemical, and genetic studies to identify the novel role of NKX2.2 in regulating STEAP1 expression in ES. Our results show that NKX2.2 is a co-regulator of STEAP1 expression and functions by interacting with the STEAP1 promoter at sites proximal to the reported EWSFLI1 sites. The co-operative interaction of NKX2.2 with EWSFLI1 in regulating STEAP1 holds potential as a new target for therapeutic interventions for ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatu Badiane Markey
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07103, USA;
| | - Brigette Romero
- Department of Medical and Molecular Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA; (B.R.); (V.P.)
| | - Vijay Parashar
- Department of Medical and Molecular Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA; (B.R.); (V.P.)
| | - Mona Batish
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07103, USA;
- Department of Medical and Molecular Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA; (B.R.); (V.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-302-831-8591
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15
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Sundara Rajan S, Ludwig KR, Hall KL, Jones TL, Caplen NJ. Cancer biology functional genomics: From small RNAs to big dreams. Mol Carcinog 2020; 59:1343-1361. [PMID: 33043516 PMCID: PMC7702050 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The year 2021 marks the 20th anniversary of the first publications reporting the discovery of the gene silencing mechanism, RNA interference (RNAi) in mammalian cells. Along with the many studies that delineated the proteins and substrates that form the RNAi pathway, this finding changed our understanding of the posttranscriptional regulation of mammalian gene expression. Furthermore, the development of methods that exploited the RNAi pathway began the technological revolution that eventually enabled the interrogation of mammalian gene function-from a single gene to the whole genome-in only a few days. The needs of the cancer research community have driven much of this progress. In this perspective, we highlight milestones in the development and application of RNAi-based methods to study carcinogenesis. We discuss how RNAi-based functional genetic analysis of exemplar tumor suppressors and oncogenes furthered our understanding of cancer initiation and progression and explore how such studies formed the basis of genome-wide scale efforts to identify cancer or cancer-type specific vulnerabilities, including studies conducted in vivo. Furthermore, we examine how RNAi technologies have revealed new cancer-relevant molecular targets and the implications for cancer of the first RNAi-based drugs. Finally, we discuss the future of functional genetic analysis, highlighting the increasing availability of complementary approaches to analyze cancer gene function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Sundara Rajan
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Katelyn R. Ludwig
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Katherine L. Hall
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Tamara L. Jones
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Natasha J. Caplen
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics BranchCenter for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesdaMarylandUSA
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16
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Abate A, Rossini E, Bonini SA, Fragni M, Cosentini D, Tiberio GAM, Benetti D, Hantel C, Laganà M, Grisanti S, Terzolo M, Memo M, Berruti A, Sigala S. Cytotoxic Effect of Trabectedin In Human Adrenocortical Carcinoma Cell Lines and Primary Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040928. [PMID: 32283844 PMCID: PMC7226156 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitotane is the only drug approved for the treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). The regimen to be added to mitotane is a chemotherapy including etoposide, doxorubicin, and cisplatin. This pharmacological approach, however, has a limited efficacy and significant toxicity. Evidence indicates that ACC seems to be sensitive to alkylating agents. Trabectedin is an anti-tumor drug that acts as an alkylating agent with a complex mechanism of action. Here, we investigated whether trabectedin could exert a cytotoxic activity in in vitro cell models of ACC. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay on ACC cell lines and primary cell cultures. The gene expression was evaluated by q-RT-PCR, while protein expression and localization were studied by Western blot and immunocytochemistry. Combination experiments were performed to evaluate their interaction on ACC cell line viability. Trabectedin demonstrated high cytotoxicity at sub-nanomolar concentrations in ACC cell lines and patient-derived primary cell cultures. The drug was able to reduce /β catenin nuclear localization, although it is unclear whether this effect is involved in the observed cytotoxicity. Trabectedin/mitotane combination exerted a synergic cytotoxic effect in NCI-H295R cells. Trabectedin has antineoplastic activity in ACC cells. The synergistic cytotoxic activity of trabectedin with mitotane provides the rationale for testing this combination in a clinical study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Abate
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.A.); (E.R.); (S.A.B.); (M.F.); (M.M.)
| | - Elisa Rossini
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.A.); (E.R.); (S.A.B.); (M.F.); (M.M.)
| | - Sara Anna Bonini
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.A.); (E.R.); (S.A.B.); (M.F.); (M.M.)
| | - Martina Fragni
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.A.); (E.R.); (S.A.B.); (M.F.); (M.M.)
| | - Deborah Cosentini
- Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (D.C.); (M.L.); (S.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Guido Albero Massimo Tiberio
- Surgical Clinic, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Diego Benetti
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Constanze Hantel
- Klinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Klinische Ernährung, Universitätsspital Zürich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, 01307 City, Germany
| | - Marta Laganà
- Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (D.C.); (M.L.); (S.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Salvatore Grisanti
- Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (D.C.); (M.L.); (S.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Massimo Terzolo
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Internal Medicine 1, San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, 10043 Orbassano, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Memo
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.A.); (E.R.); (S.A.B.); (M.F.); (M.M.)
| | - Alfredo Berruti
- Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (D.C.); (M.L.); (S.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Sandra Sigala
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.A.); (E.R.); (S.A.B.); (M.F.); (M.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-030-371-7663
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17
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Precision medicine in Ewing sarcoma: a translational point of view. Clin Transl Oncol 2020; 22:1440-1454. [PMID: 32026343 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-020-02298-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is a rare tumor that arises in bones of children and teenagers but, in 15% of the patients it is presented as a primary soft tissue tumor. Balanced reciprocal chimeric translocation t(11;22)(q24;q12), which encodes an oncogenic protein fusion (EWSR1/FLI1), is the most generalized and characteristic molecular event. Using conventional treatments, (chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy) long-term overall survival rate is 30% for patients with disseminated disease and 65-75% for patients with localized tumors. Urgent new effective drug development is a challenge. This review summarizes the preclinical and clinical investigational knowledge about prognostic and targetable biomarkers in Ewing sarcoma, finally suggesting a workflow for precision medicine committees.
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18
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Romswinkel A, Infanger M, Dietz C, Strube F, Kraus A. The Role of C-X-C Chemokine Receptor Type 4 (CXCR4) in Cell Adherence and Spheroid Formation of Human Ewing's Sarcoma Cells under Simulated Microgravity. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20236073. [PMID: 31810195 PMCID: PMC6929163 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20236073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the behavior of Ewing's Sarcoma cells of the line A673 under simulated microgravity (s-µg). These cells express two prominent markers-the oncogene EWS/FLI1 and the chemokine receptor CXCR4, which is used as a target of treatment in several types of cancer. The cells were exposed to s-µg in a random-positioning machine (RPM) for 24 h in the absence and presence of the CXCR4 inhibitor AMD3100. Then, their morphology and cytoskeleton were examined. The expression of selected mutually interacting genes was measured by qRT-PCR and protein accumulation was determined by western blotting. After 24 h incubation on the RPM, a splitting of the A673 cell population in adherent and spheroid cells was observed. Compared to 1 g control cells, EWS/FLI1 was significantly upregulated in the adherent cells and in the spheroids, while CXCR4 and CD44 expression were significantly enhanced in spheroids only. Transcription of CAV-1 was upregulated and DKK2 and VEGF-A were down-regulated in both, adherent in spheroid cells, respectively. Regarding, protein accumulation EWS/FLI1 was enhanced in adherent cells only, but CD44 decreased in spheroids and adherent cells. Inhibition of CXCR4 did not change spheroid count, or structure. Under s-µg, the tumor marker EWS/FLI1 is intensified, while targeting CXCR4, which influences adhesion proteins, did not affect spheroid formation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Armin Kraus
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-391-67-15599; Fax: +49-391-67-15588
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19
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Eismann J, Heng YJ, Waldschmidt JM, Vlachos IS, Gray KP, Matulonis UA, Konstantinopoulos PA, Murphy CJ, Nabavi S, Wulf GM. Transcriptome analysis reveals overlap in fusion genes in a phase I clinical cohort of TNBC and HGSOC patients treated with buparlisib and olaparib. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2019; 146:503-514. [PMID: 31745703 PMCID: PMC6985087 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-019-03078-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fusion genes can be therapeutically relevant if they result in constitutive activation of oncogenes or repression of tumor suppressors. However, the prevalence and role of fusion genes in female cancers remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigate the fusion gene landscape in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), two subtypes of female cancers with high molecular similarity but limited treatment options at present. METHODS RNA-seq was utilized to identify fusion genes in a cohort of 18 TNBC and HGSOC patients treated with the PI3K inhibitor buparlisib and the PARP inhibitor olaparib in a phase I clinical trial (NCT01623349). Differential gene expression analysis was performed to assess the function of fusion genes in silico. Finally, these findings were correlated with the reported clinical outcomes. RESULTS A total of 156 fusion genes was detected, whereof 44/156 (28%) events occurred in more than one patient. Low recurrence across samples indicated that the majority of fusion genes were private passenger events. The long non-coding RNA MALAT1 was involved in 97/156 (62%) fusion genes, followed in prevalence by MUC16, FOXP1, WWOX and XIST. Gene expression of FOXP1 was significantly elevated in patients with vs. without FOXP1 fusion (P= 0.02). From a clinical perspective, FOXP1 fusions were associated with a favorable overall survival. CONCLUSIONS In summary, this study provides the first characterization of fusion genes in a cohort of TNBC and HGSOC patients. An improved mechanistic understanding of fusion genes will support the future identification of innovative therapeutic approaches for these challenging diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Eismann
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yujing J Heng
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Johannes M Waldschmidt
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ioannis S Vlachos
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kathryn P Gray
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Biostatic Core, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ursula A Matulonis
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Charles J Murphy
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sheida Nabavi
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Institute of System Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
| | - Gerburg M Wulf
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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20
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The Utility of NKX2.2 and TLE1 Immunohistochemistry in the Differentiation of Ewing Sarcoma and Synovial Sarcoma. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2019; 27:174-179. [DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000000573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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21
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Theisen ER, Miller KR, Showpnil IA, Taslim C, Pishas KI, Lessnick SL. Transcriptomic analysis functionally maps the intrinsically disordered domain of EWS/FLI and reveals novel transcriptional dependencies for oncogenesis. Genes Cancer 2019; 10:21-38. [PMID: 30899417 PMCID: PMC6420793 DOI: 10.18632/genesandcancer.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
EWS/FLI is the pathognomic fusion oncoprotein that drives Ewing sarcoma. The amino-terminal EWS portion coordinates transcriptional regulation and the carboxy-terminal FLI portion contains an ETS DNA-binding domain. EWS/FLI acts as an aberrant transcription factor, orchestrating a complex mix of gene activation and repression, from both high affinity ETS motifs and repetitive GGAA-microsatellites. Our overarching hypothesis is that executing multi-faceted transcriptional regulation requires EWS/FLI to use distinct molecular mechanisms at different loci. Many attempts have been made to map distinct functions to specific features of the EWS domain, but described deletion mutants are either fully active or completely "dead" and other approaches have been limited by the repetitive and disordered nature of the EWS domain. Here, we use transcriptomic approaches to show an EWS/FLI mutant, called DAF, previously thought to be nonfunctional, displays context-dependent and partial transcriptional activity but lacks transforming capacity. Using transcriptomic and phenotypic anchorage-independent growth profiles of other EWS/FLI mutants coupled with reported EWS/FLI localization data, we have mapped the critical structure-function requirements of the EWS domain for EWS/FLI-mediated oncogenesis. This approach defined unique classes of EWS/FLI response elements and revealed novel structure-function relationships required for EWS/FLI activation at these response elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Theisen
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kyle R Miller
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Iftekhar A Showpnil
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Cenny Taslim
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kathleen I Pishas
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Stephen L Lessnick
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Blood & Marrow Transplant, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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22
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Rizk VT, Walko CM, Brohl AS. Precision medicine approaches for the management of Ewing sarcoma: current perspectives. PHARMACOGENOMICS & PERSONALIZED MEDICINE 2019; 12:9-14. [PMID: 30697061 PMCID: PMC6340366 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s170612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Advancements in molecular and genetic techniques have significantly furthered our biological understanding of Ewing sarcoma (ES). ES is typified by a driving TET-ETS fusion with an otherwise relatively quiet genome. Detection of one of several characteristic fusions, most commonly EWSR1-FLI1, is the gold standard for diagnosis. We discuss the current role of precision medicine in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of ES. Continued efforts toward molecularly guided approaches are actively being pursued in ES to better refine prognosis, identify germline markers of disease susceptibility, influence therapeutic selection, effectively monitor disease activity in real time, and identify genetic and immunotherapeutic targets for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrew S Brohl
- Sarcoma Department, .,Chemical Biology and Molecular Medicine Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA,
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23
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Russell-Goldman E, Hornick JL, Qian X, Jo VY. NKX2.2 immunohistochemistry in the distinction of Ewing sarcoma from cytomorphologic mimics: Diagnostic utility and pitfalls. Cancer Cytopathol 2018; 126:942-949. [PMID: 30376220 DOI: 10.1002/cncy.22056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a round cell sarcoma that can be challenging to diagnose on cytologic material given its significant overlap with numerous mesenchymal, epithelial, and lymphoid cytomorphologic mimics. The objective of this study was to assess the utility of a novel marker, NKX2.2, in the diagnosis of ES in cytologic material and its ability to distinguish ES from its mimics. METHODS NKX2.2 immunohistochemistry was performed on cell blocks from 107 fine-needle aspirations, and nuclear expression was scored semiquantitatively for extent and intensity. The study cohort included ES (n = 10), well differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (n = 20), melanoma (n = 11), Merkel cell carcinoma (n = 10), small cell carcinoma (n = 10), alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 2), spindle cell/sclerosing rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 2), synovial sarcoma (n = 12), solitary fibrous tumor (n = 2), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (n = 10), lymphoblastic lymphoma (n = 11), adenoid cystic carcinoma (n = 6), and CIC-rearranged sarcoma (n = 1). RESULTS NKX2.2 had high sensitivity (100%) and moderate specificity (85%) for the diagnosis of ES in cytologic material. NKX2.2 expression also was present in a subset of mesenchymal and epithelial mimics, and staining was most commonly observed in small cell carcinoma (80%) and well differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (45%). Among mesenchymal mimics, 42% exhibited NKX2.2 expression. NKX2.2 staining was absent in melanoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, and lymphoproliferative neoplasms. CONCLUSIONS NKX2.2 is a highly sensitive but only moderately specific marker for ES. Neuroendocrine neoplasms exhibit variable NKX2.2 expression and remain a significant potential diagnostic pitfall. Thus, NKX2.2 expression should be interpreted in the context of an appropriate immunohistochemical panel (and often with confirmatory molecular testing) for the accurate diagnosis of ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Russell-Goldman
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jason L Hornick
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Xiaohua Qian
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Vickie Y Jo
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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24
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Chen H, Liu W, Zhong L, Liao D, Zhang R, Kang T, Wu Y. NKX2-2 Suppresses Osteosarcoma Metastasis and Proliferation by Downregulating Multiple Target Genes. J Cancer 2018; 9:3067-3077. [PMID: 30210629 PMCID: PMC6134811 DOI: 10.7150/jca.26382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant bone tumor. However, our understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying its pathogenesis is incomplete. Studies have shown that aberrant expression of NK homeobox (NKX) genes may be involved in the oncogenesis of various cancers. Here, through migration screening assay, we found that a series of NKX genes inhibit the migration of osteosarcoma cells. Among these genes, NKX2-2 is a bona fide tumor suppressor for osteosarcoma. Overexpression of NKX2-2 decreases the migration, invasion, proliferation and colony formation of osteosarcoma cells in vitro and suppresses tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Moreover, based on the results from both in vitro and in vivo studies, the transcriptional activation domain of NKX2-2 is important for its tumor suppressor function. Mechanistically, we revealed that NKX2-2 acts as a tumor suppressor partially by mediating the transcriptional downregulation of COL5A2, PLAU, SEMA7A and S1PR1 genes. In summary, our studies of NKX2-2 revealed new molecular mechanisms underlying osteosarcoma proliferation and metastasis and may provide a series of potential therapeutic targets for osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiming Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Wenqiang Liu
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Li Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Dan Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Ruhua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Tiebang Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yuanzhong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
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25
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Lee SY, Lim S, Cho DH. Personalized genomic analysis based on circulating tumor cells of extra-skeletal Ewing sarcoma of the uterus: A case report of a 16-year-old Korean female. Exp Ther Med 2018; 16:1343-1349. [PMID: 30116384 PMCID: PMC6090316 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A 16-year-old female with Ewing sarcoma, a very rare disease with poor prognosis in women, was admitted to the hospital with abdominal pain. Diagnostic laparotomy revealed the Ewing sarcoma originating from the extramural uterus. Histological examination yielded positive test results for CD99, vimentin, S-100, eosin 5-maleimide and periodic acid-Shiff. EWS-FLI1 type 1 translocation was confirmed. Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) 4 (c.1162G> A) and HRas proto-oncogene (HRAS; c.182A> G) mutations were also detected. At eight months following complete remission, pelvic lymph node metastasis was confirmed. Epithelial cell adhesion molecule-positive circulating tumor cells (CTCs) were detected in liquid biopsy. FGFR3 (c.1948A> G) and FGFR4 (c.1162G> A) mutations were found in the CTCs. FGFR4 (c.1162G> A) and HRAS (c.182A> G) mutations were confirmed in cell-free circulating tumor DNA. A sequence of EWSR1 gene was also confirmed in the CTCs. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of skeletal Ewing sarcoma being detected using multiple noninvasive diagnostic methods to observe genetic translocation and mutation in blood CTCs. It may be used to monitor the therapeutic effect of cancer or predict prognosis. Therefore, liquid biopsy is expected to serve a pivotal role in ultra-precise medicine in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Young Lee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chonbuk National University Hospital, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo 561-712, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Chonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Chonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo 561-712, Republic of Korea
| | - Sery Lim
- Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi 426-791, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hyu Cho
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Chonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Chonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo 561-712, Republic of Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chonbuk National University Hospital, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo 561-712, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence to: Professor Dong-Hyu Cho, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chonbuk National University Hospital, Chonbuk National University Medical School, 634-18 Keumam Dong, Dukjin, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo 561-712, Republic of Korea, E-mail:
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26
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The combination of epigenetic drugs SAHA and HCI-2509 synergistically inhibits EWS-FLI1 and tumor growth in Ewing sarcoma. Oncotarget 2018; 9:31397-31410. [PMID: 30140378 PMCID: PMC6101143 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Epigenetic regulation is crucial in mammalian development and maintenance of tissue-cell specific functions. Perturbation of epigenetic balance may lead to alterations in gene expression, resulting in cellular transformation and malignancy. Previous studies in Ewing sarcoma (ES) have shown that the Nucleosome Remodeling Deacetylase (NuRD) complex binds directly to EWS-FLI1 oncoprotein and modulates its transcriptional activity. The role of EWS-FLI1 as a driver of proliferation and transformation in ES is widely known, but the effect of epigenetic drugs on fusion activity remains poorly described. The present study evaluated the combination effects of the histone deacetylases inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) and Lysine-specific demethylase1 inhibitor (HCI-2509) on different biological functions in ES and in comparison to monotherapy treatments. Results The study of proliferation and cell viability showed a synergistic effect in most ES cell lines analyzed. An enhanced effect was also observed in the induction of apoptosis, together with accumulation of cells in G1 phase and a blockage of the migratory capacity of ES cell lines. Treatment, either in monotherapy or in combination, caused a significant decrease of EWS-FLI1 mRNA and protein levels and this effect is mediated in part by fusion gene promoter regulation. The anti-tumor effect of this combination was confirmed in patient-derived xenograft mouse models, in which only the combination treatment led to a statistically significant decrease in tumor volume. Conclusions The combination of SAHA and HCI-2509 is proposed as a novel treatment strategy for ES patients to inhibit the essential driver of this sarcoma and tumor growth.
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27
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McCuiston A, Bishop JA. Usefulness of NKX2.2 Immunohistochemistry for Distinguishing Ewing Sarcoma from Other Sinonasal Small Round Blue Cell Tumors. Head Neck Pathol 2018; 12:89-94. [PMID: 28616785 PMCID: PMC5873485 DOI: 10.1007/s12105-017-0830-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
NKX2.2 is a new immunohistochemical marker that has been reported to be sensitive and specific for Ewing sarcoma (ES). It has not, however, been investigated specifically in the sinonasal small round blue cell tumor (SRBCT) differential diagnosis which includes many tumors specific to that site. It has also not been investigated in the newly recognized "adamantinoma-like" variant of ES. Immunohistochemistry for NKX2.2 was performed on 170 poorly differentiated sinonasal neoplasms: 73 squamous cell carcinomas (67 poorly differentiated, non-keratinizing, or basaloid types and 6 nasopharyngeal carcinomas), 46 olfactory neuroblastomas, 8 sinonasal undifferentiated carcinomas (SNUCs), 6 melanomas, 7 Ewing sarcomas, 6 SMARCB1-deficient carcinomas, 6 teratocarcinosarcomas, 5 alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas, 4 solid adenoid cystic carcinomas, 4 NK/T cell lymphomas, 3 NUT carcinomas, and 2 small cell carcinomas. NKX2.2 was positive in 7 of 7 (100%) Ewing sarcomas, including 3 adamantinoma-like variant (all diffuse, 5 strong and 2 weak). It was also positive in 5 of 6 (83%) teratocarcinosarcomas (strong, but focal), 12 of 46 (26%) olfactory neuroblastomas (diffuse, 2 strong and 10 weak), 4 of 6 melanomas (2 diffuse, 2 focal, all weak), and 1 of 2 small cell carcinomas (diffuse and strong). All squamous cell carcinomas, NUT carcinomas, SMARCB1-deficient carcinomas, SNUCs, solid adenoid cystic carcinomas, NK/T cell lymphomas, and alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas were negative. In the sinonasal SRBCT differential diagnosis, NKX2.2 is a useful and very sensitive marker for Ewing sarcoma, including the treacherous adamantinoma-like variant. At the same time, it is not entirely specific, as it will be positive in a subset of other neuroendocrine/neuroectodermal tumors. As a result, NKX2.2 must be utilized as part of an immunohistochemical panel with other markers, especially cytokeratins, melanoma markers, and CD99.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin McCuiston
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Pathology Building, Room 401, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
| | - Justin A Bishop
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Pathology Building, Room 401, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
- Departments of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
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28
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Lagares-Tena L, García-Monclús S, López-Alemany R, Almacellas-Rabaiget O, Huertas-Martínez J, Sáinz-Jaspeado M, Mateo-Lozano S, Rodríguez-Galindo C, Rello-Varona S, Herrero-Martín D, Tirado OM. Caveolin-1 promotes Ewing sarcoma metastasis regulating MMP-9 expression through MAPK/ERK pathway. Oncotarget 2018; 7:56889-56903. [PMID: 27487136 PMCID: PMC5302960 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a bone and soft tissue sarcoma affecting mostly children and young adults. Caveolin-1 (CAV1) is a well-known target of EWS/FLI1, the main driver of ES, with an oncogenic role in ES. We have previously described how CAV1 is able to induce metastasis in ES via matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). In the present study we showed how CAV1 silencing in ES reduced MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Accordingly, chemical inhibition of MEK1/2 resulted in reduction in MMP-9 expression and activity that correlated with reduced migration and invasion. IQ Motif Containing GTPase Activating Protein 1 (IQGAP1) silencing reduced MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation and MMP-9 expression. Furthermore, IQGAP1 silenced cells showed a marked decrease in their migratory and invasive capacity. We demonstrated that CAV1 and IQGAP1 localize in close proximity at the cellular edge, thus IQGAP1 could be the connecting node between CAV1 and MEK/ERK in ES metastatic phenotype. Analysis of the phosphorylation profile of CAV1-silenced cells showed a decrease of p-ribosomal protein S6 (RPS6). RPS6 can be phosphorylated by p90 ribosomal S6 kinases (RSK) proteins. CAV1-silenced cells showed reduced levels of p-RSK1 and treatment with U0126 provoked the same effect. Despite not affecting ERK1/2 and RPS6 phosphorylation status neither MMP-9 expression nor activity, RSK1 silencing resulted in a reduced migratory and invasive capacity in vitro and reduced incidence of metastases in vivo in a novel orthotopic model. The present work provides new insights into CAV1-driven metastatic process in ES unveiling novel key nodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lagares-Tena
- Sarcoma Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia García-Monclús
- Sarcoma Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser López-Alemany
- Sarcoma Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Almacellas-Rabaiget
- Sarcoma Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Huertas-Martínez
- Sarcoma Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Sáinz-Jaspeado
- Sarcoma Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Mateo-Lozano
- Developmental Tumor Biology Laboratory, Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Rodríguez-Galindo
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Santiago Rello-Varona
- Sarcoma Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Herrero-Martín
- Sarcoma Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oscar M Tirado
- Sarcoma Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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Schram AM, Chang MT, Jonsson P, Drilon A. Fusions in solid tumours: diagnostic strategies, targeted therapy, and acquired resistance. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2017; 14:735-748. [PMID: 28857077 PMCID: PMC10452928 DOI: 10.1038/nrclinonc.2017.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Structural gene rearrangements resulting in gene fusions are frequent events in solid tumours. The identification of certain activating fusions can aid in the diagnosis and effective treatment of patients with tumours harbouring these alterations. Advances in the techniques used to identify fusions have enabled physicians to detect these alterations in the clinic. Targeted therapies directed at constitutively activated oncogenic tyrosine kinases have proven remarkably effective against cancers with fusions involving ALK, ROS1, or PDGFB, and the efficacy of this approach continues to be explored in malignancies with RET, NTRK1/2/3, FGFR1/2/3, and BRAF/CRAF fusions. Nevertheless, prolonged treatment with such tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs) leads to the development of acquired resistance to therapy. This resistance can be mediated by mutations that alter drug binding, or by the activation of bypass pathways. Second-generation and third-generation TKIs have been developed to overcome resistance, and have variable levels of activity against tumours harbouring individual mutations that confer resistance to first-generation TKIs. The rational sequential administration of different inhibitors is emerging as a new treatment paradigm for patients with tumours that retain continued dependency on the downstream kinase of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Schram
- Department of Medicine 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Matthew T Chang
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Philip Jonsson
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Alexander Drilon
- Department of Medicine 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA
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30
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Abstract
Bone cancer is a malignant primary tumour of the bone with different typing, such as, osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma and fibrosarcoma. Despite the clinical efficacy of conventional therapies of bone cancer, most patients eventually relapse and the disease remains incurable. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies are needed to improve patient outcome. In this review article, we have discussed the role of resveratrol in preventing bone and spinal cancers and therapeutics. Resveratrol (3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is a natural polyphenol, which has been widely reported as an anticancer molecule. Resveratrol exhibits multiple tumour-suppressing activities in bone cancer by affecting a series of critical events. It has the protective effects against oxidative injury, possesses antiproliferative activity and induces apoptosis in cancer cells. Resveratrol might be a good option for the treatment of different types of bone and spinal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Chen
- a Department of Spine , Xiangtan Central Hospital , Xiangtan , Hunan , P.R. China
| | - Hong Xia
- a Department of Spine , Xiangtan Central Hospital , Xiangtan , Hunan , P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Guo Zhang
- a Department of Spine , Xiangtan Central Hospital , Xiangtan , Hunan , P.R. China
| | - Hai-Liang Yu
- a Department of Spine , Xiangtan Central Hospital , Xiangtan , Hunan , P.R. China
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31
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Sechler M, Parrish JK, Birks DK, Jedlicka P. The histone demethylase KDM3A, and its downstream target MCAM, promote Ewing Sarcoma cell migration and metastasis. Oncogene 2017; 36:4150-4160. [PMID: 28319067 PMCID: PMC5519422 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Ewing Sarcoma is the second most common solid pediatric malignant neoplasm of bone and soft tissue. Driven by EWS/Ets, or rarely variant, oncogenic fusions, Ewing Sarcoma is a biologically and clinically aggressive disease with a high propensity for metastasis. However, the mechanisms underpinning Ewing Sarcoma metastasis are currently not well understood. In the present study, we identify and characterize a novel metastasis-promotional pathway in Ewing Sarcoma, involving the histone demethylase KDM3A, previously identified by our laboratory as a new cancer-promoting gene in this disease. Using global gene expression profiling, we show that KDM3A positively regulates genes and pathways implicated in cell migration and metastasis, and demonstrate, using functional assays, that KDM3A promotes migration in vitro and experimental, post-intravasation, metastasis in vivo. We further identify the melanoma cell adhesion molecule (MCAM) as a novel KDM3A target gene in Ewing Sarcoma, and an important effector of KDM3A pro-metastatic action. Specifically, we demonstrate that MCAM depletion, like KDM3A depletion, inhibits cell migration in vitro and experimental metastasis in vivo, and that MCAM partially rescues impaired migration due to KDM3A knock-down. Mechanistically, we show that KDM3A regulates MCAM expression both through a direct mechanism, involving modulation of H3K9 methylation at the MCAM promoter, and an indirect mechanism, via the Ets1 transcription factor. Finally, we identify an association between high MCAM levels in patient tumors and poor survival, in two different Ewing Sarcoma clinical cohorts. Taken together, our studies uncover a new metastasis-promoting pathway in Ewing Sarcoma, with therapeutically targetable components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marybeth Sechler
- Cancer Biology Graduate Training Program
- University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora CO
| | - Janet K. Parrish
- Department of Pathology
- University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora CO
| | - Diane K. Birks
- Department of Neurosurgery
- University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora CO
| | - Paul Jedlicka
- Cancer Biology Graduate Training Program
- Department of Pathology
- University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora CO
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32
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Theisen ER, Pishas KI, Saund RS, Lessnick SL. Therapeutic opportunities in Ewing sarcoma: EWS-FLI inhibition via LSD1 targeting. Oncotarget 2017; 7:17616-30. [PMID: 26848860 PMCID: PMC4951237 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive primary pediatric bone tumor, often diagnosed in adolescents and young adults. A pathognomonic reciprocal chromosomal translocation results in a fusion gene coding for a protein which derives its N-terminus from a FUS/EWS/TAF15 (FET) protein family member, commonly EWS, and C-terminus containing the DNA-binding domain of an ETS transcription factor, commonly FLI1. Nearly 85% of cases express the EWS-FLI protein which functions as a transcription factor and drives oncogenesis. As the primary genomic lesion and a protein which is not expressed in normal cells, disrupting EWS-FLI function is an attractive therapeutic strategy for Ewing sarcoma. However, transcription factors are notoriously difficult targets for the development of small molecules. Improved understanding of the oncogenic mechanisms employed by EWS-FLI to hijack normal cellular programming has uncovered potential novel approaches to pharmacologically block EWS-FLI function. In this review we examine targeting the chromatin regulatory enzymes recruited to conspire in oncogenesis with a focus on the histone lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1). LSD1 inhibitors are being aggressively investigated in acute myeloid leukemia and the results of early clinical trials will help inform the future use of LSD1 inhibitors in sarcoma. High LSD1 expression is observed in Ewing sarcoma patient samples and mechanistic and preclinical data suggest LSD1 inhibition globally disrupts the function of EWS-ETS proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Theisen
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kathleen I Pishas
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Cancer Therapeutics Laboratory, Centre for Personalized Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ranajeet S Saund
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Stephen L Lessnick
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Bone Marrow Transplant at The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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33
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Meier R, Graw S, Beyerlein P, Koestler D, Molina JR, Chien J. digit—a tool for detection and identification of genomic interchromosomal translocations. Nucleic Acids Res 2017; 45:e72. [PMID: 28132028 PMCID: PMC5435966 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Structural variations (SVs) in genomic DNA can have profound effects on the evolution of living organisms, on phenotypic variations and on disease processes. A critical step in discovering the full extent of structural variations is the development of tools to characterize these variations accurately in next generation sequencing data. Toward this goal, we developed a software pipeline named digit that implements a novel measure of mapping ambiguity to discover interchromosomal SVs from mate-pair and pair-end sequencing data. The workflow robustly handles the high numbers of artifacts present in mate-pair sequencing and reduces the false positive rate while maintaining sensitivity. In the simulated data set, our workflow recovered 96% of simulated SVs. It generates a self-updating library of common translocations and allows for the investigation of patient- or group-specific events, making it suitable for discovering and cataloging chromosomal translocations associated with specific groups, traits, diseases or population structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Meier
- Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau, 15745 Wildau, Germany
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Stefan Graw
- Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau, 15745 Wildau, Germany
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Peter Beyerlein
- Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau, 15745 Wildau, Germany
| | - Devin Koestler
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Julian R. Molina
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Jeremy Chien
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +1 913 945 8082; Fax: +1 913 945 6650;
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34
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van Maldegem AM, Bovée JVMG, Gelderblom H. Panobinostat-A Potential Treatment for Metastasized Ewing Sarcoma? A Case Report. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2016; 63:1840-3. [PMID: 27245095 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.26077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 04/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a form of primary bone cancer, with few treatment options for patients who develop relapse with an overall 5-year survival of 13%. New treatment options are needed and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors show encouraging results in preclinical studies. Our patient developed inoperable progressive lung metastases and was treated with the HDAC inhibitor panobinostat. During 18 months of treatment, no new lesions appeared; the treatment was stopped due to progression. This clinical observation warrants further evaluation of HDAC inhibitors in ES. Combination with chemotherapy and biomarker studies could improve the therapeutic index of these classes of compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Judith V M G Bovée
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Gelderblom
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Since its foundation by remarkably talented and insightful individuals, prominently including Pepper Dehner, pediatric soft tissue tumor pathology has developed at an immense rate. The morphologic classification of tumoral entities has extensively been corroborated, but has also evolved with refinement or realignment of these classifications, through accruing molecular data, with many derivative ancillary diagnostic assays now already well-established. Tumors of unclear histogenesis, classically morphologically undifferentiated, are prominent amongst pediatric sarcomas, however, the classes of undifferentiated round- or spindle-cell-tumors-not-otherwise-specified are being dismantled gradually with the identification of their molecular underpinnings. Within recent years, for example, numerous subcategories of 'Ewing-like' round cell sarcoma have emerged. Such advances have provided the basis for novel diagnostic and prognostic sub-classifications. Efforts at defining cell- or lineage-of-origin for several tumor types have produced interesting insights especially for rhabdomyosarcoma. The remarkably early onset of pediatric sarcomas defies the theory necessitating stochastic accumulation of several somatic mutations for cancer development and indeed, these tumors may be remarkably genomically stable, often belying their aggressive nature. Much is coming to light recently regarding the role of epigenetic modifications in the evolution of these sarcomas. Indeed the morphologic features of embryonal tumors generally (not just sarcomas) may be highly reminiscent of arrested differentiation, and given the tight epigenetic regulation of cell fate determination and cell identity maintenance, a theory of epigenetically-driven oncogenesis sits easily with these tumors. The age-delimited distinct biologies of 'pediatric' and adult GIST are intriguing, particularly, the SDH-deficient 'pediatric' form, driven by a metabolic defect, but resulting in epigenetic dysregulation with genome-wide DNA methylation changes. There is little doubt that many of the gaps in our understanding of pediatric sarcoma biology will be filled by a deeper appreciation of the role of dysregulated epigenetics including chromatin biology, perhaps best exemplified in malignant rhabdoid tumor. The field of pediatric soft tissue tumor pathology grows ever more interesting. Importantly though, it must be emphasized, that none of this progress could have occurred, or indeed continue, without the initial step of accurate diagnosis, founded solidly on morphology - thank you Pepper for your unparalleled contributions to this field! The opportunity to be your apprentice for five years has been a bigger and more positive influence than words can express.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen O'Sullivan
- National Children's Research Centre, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland; Our Lady's Children's Hospital Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland.
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36
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Lawlor ER, Sorensen PH. Twenty Years on: What Do We Really Know about Ewing Sarcoma and What Is the Path Forward? Crit Rev Oncog 2016; 20:155-71. [PMID: 26349414 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2015013553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a highly aggressive bone and soft-tissue tumor with peak incidence among adolescents and young adults. Despite advances in local control and systemic chemotherapy, metastatic relapse after an initial clinical remission remains a significant clinical problem. In addition, metastasis at the time of presentation or at relapse continues to be the leading cause of death for patients diagnosed with ES. Since the discovery of the pathognomonic EWS-FLI1 fusion gene more than 20 years ago, much about the molecular and cellular biology of ES pathogenesis has been learned. In addition, more recent exploitation of advances in stem cell and developmental biology has provided key insights into the cellular origins of ES and the role of epigenetic deregulation in tumor initiation and maintenance. Nevertheless, the mechanisms that drive tumor relapse and metastasis remain largely unknown. These gaps in our knowledge continue to hamper the development of novel therapeutic strategies that may improve outcomes for patients with relapsed and metastatic disease. In this article we review the current status of ES biology research, highlighting areas of investigation that we consider to have the greatest potential to yield findings that will translate into clinically significant advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R Lawlor
- Department of Pediatrics & Communicable Diseases and Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Poul H Sorensen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Kim SK, Park YK. Ewing sarcoma: a chronicle of molecular pathogenesis. Hum Pathol 2016; 55:91-100. [PMID: 27246176 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Sarcomas have traditionally been classified according to their chromosomal alterations regardless of whether they accompany simple or complex genetic changes. Ewing sarcoma, a classic small round cell bone tumor, is a well-known mesenchymal malignancy that results from simple sarcoma-specific genetic alterations. The genetic alterations are translocations between genes of the TET/FET family (TLS/FUS, EWSR1, and TAF15) and genes of the E26 transformation-specific (ETS) family. In this review, we intend to summarize a chronicle of molecular findings of Ewing sarcoma including recent advances and explain resultant molecular pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Kyum Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong-Koo Park
- Department of Pathology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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38
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Caropreso V, Darvishi E, Turbyville TJ, Ratnayake R, Grohar PJ, McMahon JB, Woldemichael GM. Englerin A Inhibits EWS-FLI1 DNA Binding in Ewing Sarcoma Cells. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:10058-66. [PMID: 26961871 PMCID: PMC4858959 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.701375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput screening of extracts from plants, marine, and micro-organisms led to the identification of the extract from the plant Phyllanthus engleri as the most potent inhibitor of EWS-FLI1 induced luciferase reporter expression. Testing of compounds isolated from this extract in turn led to the identification of Englerin A (EA) as the active constituent of the extract. EA induced both necrosis and apoptosis in Ewing cells subsequent to a G2M accumulation of cells in the cell cycle. It also impacted clonogenic survival and anchorage-independent proliferation while also decreasing the proportion of chemotherapy-resistant cells identified by high ALDH activity. EA also caused a sustained increase in cytosolic calcium levels. EA appears to exert its effect on Ewing cells through a decrease in phosphorylation of EWS-FLI1 and its ability to bind DNA. This effect is mediated, at least in part, through a decrease in the levels of the calcium-dependent protein kinase PKC-βI after a transient up-regulation.
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MESH Headings
- Aldehyde Dehydrogenase/genetics
- Aldehyde Dehydrogenase/metabolism
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Apoptosis/genetics
- Bone Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Bone Neoplasms/genetics
- Bone Neoplasms/metabolism
- Bone Neoplasms/pathology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- DNA, Neoplasm/genetics
- DNA, Neoplasm/metabolism
- Humans
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/metabolism
- Phosphorylation/drug effects
- Phosphorylation/genetics
- Protein Binding/drug effects
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/metabolism
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/genetics
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/metabolism
- Sarcoma, Ewing/drug therapy
- Sarcoma, Ewing/genetics
- Sarcoma, Ewing/metabolism
- Sarcoma, Ewing/pathology
- Sesquiterpenes, Guaiane/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Caropreso
- From the Molecular Targets Laboratory, NCI, National Institutes of Health
| | - Emad Darvishi
- From the Molecular Targets Laboratory, NCI, National Institutes of Health
| | - Thomas J Turbyville
- Optical Microscopy and Analysis Laboratory, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., and
| | - Ranjala Ratnayake
- From the Molecular Targets Laboratory, NCI, National Institutes of Health
| | - Patrick J Grohar
- Center for Cancer and Cell Biology, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503
| | - James B McMahon
- From the Molecular Targets Laboratory, NCI, National Institutes of Health
| | - Girma M Woldemichael
- Basic Science Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Molecular Targets Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory, Frederick, Maryland 21702,
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Vornicova O, Bar-Sela G. Investigational therapies for Ewing sarcoma: a search without a clear finding. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2016; 25:679-86. [PMID: 26988130 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2016.1168398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ewing sarcoma family tumors (ESFT) are a group of aggressive diseases, characterized histologically by small, round, blue cells and genetically by translocation involving EWS and ETS partner genes. The current treatment of localized Ewing sarcoma (ES) requires a multi-disciplinary approach, including multidrug chemotherapy, administrated before and after local treatment, surgery and radiation therapy. Unfortunately, the cure rate of metastatic or refractory/recurrent disease is still very poor. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors summarize the new types of therapy and strategies aimed to improve the prognosis or cure ES. Herein, the authors discuss several preclinical and phase I-II studies with new-targeted therapies. The most studied therapies are insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) inhibitors but have limited efficacy. Other strategies include Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) Inhibition, poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibition, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition, tyrosine kinase inhibitors and telomerase inhibitors, all with limited effectiveness. EXPERT OPINION Future treatment strategies should combine one or more targeted therapies with conventional chemotherapy. Some combined modality treatments are under clinical study. However, treatment breakthroughs are still needed to improve the relatively poor prognosis of recurrent/metastatic ESFT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Vornicova
- a Division of Oncology, Rambam Health Care Campus and Faculty of Medicine , Technion-Israel Institute of Technology , Haifa , Israel
| | - Gil Bar-Sela
- a Division of Oncology, Rambam Health Care Campus and Faculty of Medicine , Technion-Israel Institute of Technology , Haifa , Israel
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40
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High-throughput small molecule screen identifies inhibitors of aberrant chromatin accessibility. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:3018-23. [PMID: 26929321 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1521827113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in chromatin-modifying proteins and transcription factors are commonly associated with a wide variety of cancers. Through gain- or loss-of-function, these mutations may result in characteristic alterations of accessible chromatin, indicative of shifts in the landscape of regulatory elements genome-wide. The identification of compounds that reverse a specific chromatin signature could lead to chemical probes or potential therapies. To explore whether chromatin accessibility could serve as a platform for small molecule screening, we adapted formaldehyde-assisted isolation of regulatory elements (FAIRE), a chemical method to enrich for nucleosome-depleted genomic regions, as a high-throughput, automated assay. After demonstrating the validity and robustness of this approach, we applied this method to screen an epigenetically targeted small molecule library by evaluating regions of aberrant nucleosome depletion mediated by EWSR1-FLI1, the chimeric transcription factor critical for the bone and soft tissue tumor Ewing sarcoma. As a class, histone deacetylase inhibitors were greatly overrepresented among active compounds. These compounds resulted in diminished accessibility at targeted sites by disrupting transcription of EWSR1-FLI1. Capitalizing on precise differences in chromatin accessibility for drug discovery efforts offers significant advantages because it does not depend on the a priori selection of a single molecular target and may detect novel biologically relevant pathways.
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41
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Lim HJ, Yang JL. Regulatory roles and therapeutic potential of microRNA in sarcoma. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2016; 97:118-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
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42
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Minas TZ, Han J, Javaheri T, Hong SH, Schlederer M, Saygideğer-Kont Y, Çelik H, Mueller KM, Temel I, Özdemirli M, Kovar H, Erkizan HV, Toretsky J, Kenner L, Moriggl R, Üren A. YK-4-279 effectively antagonizes EWS-FLI1 induced leukemia in a transgenic mouse model. Oncotarget 2015; 6:37678-94. [PMID: 26462019 PMCID: PMC4741957 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive tumor of bone and soft tissue affecting predominantly children and young adults. Tumor-specific chromosomal translocations create EWS-FLI1 and similar aberrant ETS fusion proteins that drive sarcoma development in patients. ETS family fusion proteins and over-expressed ETS proteins are also found in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. Transgenic expression of EWS-FLI1 in mice promotes high penetrance erythroid leukemia with dense hepatic and splenic infiltrations. We identified a small molecule, YK-4-279, that directly binds to EWS-FLI1 and inhibits its oncogenic activity in Ewing sarcoma cell lines and xenograft mouse models. Herein, we tested in vivo therapeutic efficacy and potential side effects of YK-4-279 in the transgenic mouse model with EWS-FLI1 induced leukemia. A two-week course of treatment with YK-4-279 significantly reduced white blood cell count, nucleated erythroblasts in the peripheral blood, splenomegaly, and hepatomegaly of erythroleukemic mice. YK-4-279 inhibited EWS-FLI1 target gene expression in neoplastic cells. Treated animals showed significantly better overall survival compared to control mice that rapidly succumbed to leukemia. YK-4-279 treated mice did not show overt toxicity in liver, spleen, or bone marrow. In conclusion, this in vivo study highlights the efficacy of YK-4-279 to treat EWS-FLI1 expressing neoplasms and support its therapeutic potential for patients with Ewing sarcoma and other ETS-driven malignancies.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Chromatin Immunoprecipitation
- Disease Models, Animal
- Flow Cytometry
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Humans
- Immunoenzyme Techniques
- Indoles/pharmacology
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/etiology
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/administration & dosage
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/antagonists & inhibitors
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/toxicity
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/administration & dosage
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/toxicity
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/administration & dosage
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/antagonists & inhibitors
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/toxicity
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Surface Plasmon Resonance
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsion Zewdu Minas
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jenny Han
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Sung-Hyeok Hong
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michaela Schlederer
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
- Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Haydar Çelik
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kristina M. Mueller
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Idil Temel
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Metin Özdemirli
- Department of Pathology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Heinrich Kovar
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Jeffrey Toretsky
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lukas Kenner
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
- Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Unit of Pathology of Laboratory Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Moriggl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aykut Üren
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
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43
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Gordon DJ, Motwani M, Pellman D. Modeling the initiation of Ewing sarcoma tumorigenesis in differentiating human embryonic stem cells. Oncogene 2015; 35:3092-102. [PMID: 26455317 PMCID: PMC4829493 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Revised: 07/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic transformation in Ewing sarcoma tumors is driven by the fusion oncogene EWS-FLI1. However, despite the well-established role of EWS-FLI1 in tumor initiation, the development of models of Ewing sarcoma in human cells with defined genetic elements has been challenging. Here, we report a novel approach to model the initiation of Ewing sarcoma tumorigenesis that exploits the developmental and pluripotent potential of human embryonic stem cells. The inducible expression of EWS-FLI1 in embryoid bodies, or collections of differentiating stem cells, generates cells with properties of Ewing sarcoma tumors, including characteristics of transformation. These cell lines exhibit anchorage-independent growth, a lack of contact inhibition and a strong Ewing sarcoma gene expression signature. Furthermore, these cells also demonstrate a requirement for the persistent expression of EWS-FLI1 for cell survival and growth, which is a hallmark Ewing sarcoma tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Gordon
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Motwani
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - D Pellman
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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44
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An Omics Perspective on Molecular Biomarkers for Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Therapeutics of Cholangiocarcinoma. Int J Genomics 2015; 2015:179528. [PMID: 26421274 PMCID: PMC4572471 DOI: 10.1155/2015/179528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive biliary tract malignancy arising from the epithelial bile duct. The lack of early diagnostic biomarkers as well as therapeutic measures results in severe outcomes and poor prognosis. Thus, effective early diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers are required to improve the prognosis and prolong survival rates in CCA patients. Recent advancement in omics technologies combined with the integrative experimental and clinical validations has provided an insight into the underlying mechanism of CCA initiation and progression as well as clues towards novel biomarkers. This work highlights the discovery and validation of molecular markers in CCA identified through omics approaches. The possible roles of these molecules in various cellular pathways, which render CCA carcinogenesis and progression, will also be discussed. This paper can serve as a reference point for further investigations to yield deeper understanding in the complex feature of this disease, potentially leading to better approaches for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics.
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45
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Sand LGL, Szuhai K, Hogendoorn PCW. Sequencing Overview of Ewing Sarcoma: A Journey across Genomic, Epigenomic and Transcriptomic Landscapes. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:16176-215. [PMID: 26193259 PMCID: PMC4519945 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160716176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive neoplasm occurring predominantly in adolescent Caucasians. At the genome level, a pathognomonic EWSR1-ETS translocation is present. The resulting fusion protein acts as a molecular driver in the tumor development and interferes, amongst others, with endogenous transcription and splicing. The Ewing sarcoma cell shows a poorly differentiated, stem-cell like phenotype. Consequently, the cellular origin of Ewing sarcoma is still a hot discussed topic. To further characterize Ewing sarcoma and to further elucidate the role of EWSR1-ETS fusion protein multiple genome, epigenome and transcriptome level studies were performed. In this review, the data from these studies were combined into a comprehensive overview. Presently, classical morphological predictive markers are used in the clinic and the therapy is dominantly based on systemic chemotherapy in combination with surgical interventions. Using sequencing, novel predictive markers and candidates for immuno- and targeted therapy were identified which were summarized in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurens G L Sand
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands.
| | - Karoly Szuhai
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands.
| | - Pancras C W Hogendoorn
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands.
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Huang X, Park H, Greene J, Pao J, Mulvey E, Zhou SX, Albert CM, Moy F, Sachdev D, Yee D, Rader C, Hamby CV, Loeb DM, Cairo MS, Zhou X. IGF1R- and ROR1-Specific CAR T Cells as a Potential Therapy for High Risk Sarcomas. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0133152. [PMID: 26173023 PMCID: PMC4501840 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0133152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with metastatic or recurrent and refractory sarcomas have a dismal prognosis. Therefore, new targeted therapies are urgently needed. This study was designed to evaluate chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting the type I insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) or tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) molecules for their therapeutic potential against sarcomas. Here, we report that IGF1R (15/15) and ROR1 (11/15) were highly expressed in sarcoma cell lines including Ewing sarcoma, osteosarcoma, alveolar or embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, and fibrosarcoma. IGF1R and ROR1 CAR T cells derived from eight healthy donors using the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system were cytotoxic against sarcoma cells and produced high levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-13 in an antigen-specific manner. IGF1R and ROR1 CAR T cells generated from three sarcoma patients released significant amounts of IFN-γ in response to sarcoma stimulation. The adoptive transfer of IGF1R and ROR1 CAR T cells derived from a sarcoma patient significantly reduced tumor growth in pre-established, systemically disseminated and localized osteosarcoma xenograft models in NSG mice. Infusion of IGF1R and ROR1 CAR T cells also prolonged animal survival in a localized sarcoma model using NOD/scid mice. Our data indicate that both IGF1R and ROR1 can be effectively targeted by SB modified CAR T cells and that such CAR T cells may be useful in the treatment of high risk sarcoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
| | - Haein Park
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
| | - Joseph Greene
- University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - James Pao
- New York Medical College School of Medicine, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
| | - Erin Mulvey
- New York Medical College School of Medicine, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
| | - Sophia X. Zhou
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Catherine M. Albert
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Fred Moy
- Department of Pathology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
| | - Deepali Sachdev
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Douglas Yee
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Christoph Rader
- Department of Cancer Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Therapeutics, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, United States of America
| | - Carl V. Hamby
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
| | - David M. Loeb
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Mitchell S. Cairo
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
| | - Xianzheng Zhou
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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EWS/FLI utilizes NKX2-2 to repress mesenchymal features of Ewing sarcoma. Genes Cancer 2015; 6:129-43. [PMID: 26000096 PMCID: PMC4426950 DOI: 10.18632/genesandcancer.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In Ewing sarcoma, NKX2-2 is a critical activated target of the oncogenic transcription factor EWS/FLI that is required for transformation. However, its biological function in this malignancy is unknown. Here we provide evidence that NKX2-2 mediates the EWS/FLI-controlled block of mesenchymal features. Transcriptome-wide RNA sequencing revealed that NKX2-2 represses cell adhesion and extracellular matrix organization genes. NKX2-2-depleted cells form more focal adhesions and organized actin stress fibers, and spread over a wider area—hallmarks of mesenchymally derived cells. Furthermore, NKX2-2 represses the actin-stabilizing protein zyxin, suggesting that these morphological changes are attributable to zyxin de-repression. In addition, NKX2-2-knockdown cells display marked increases in migration and substrate adhesion. However, only part of the EWS/FLI phenotype is NKX2-2-dependent; consequently, NKX2-2 is insufficient to rescue EWS/FLI repression of mesenchymalization. Strikingly, we found that EWS/FLI-and NKX22-repressed genes are activated by ZEB2, which was previously shown to block Ewing sarcoma epithelialization. Together, these data support an emerging theme wherein Ewing sarcoma cells highly express transcription factors that maintain an undifferentiated state. Importantly, co-opting epithelial and mesenchymal traits by Ewing sarcoma cells may explain how the primary tumor grows rapidly while also “passively” metastasizing, without the need for transitions toward differentiated states, as in carcinomas.
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Le VH, Inai M, Williams RM, Kan T. Ecteinascidins. A review of the chemistry, biology and clinical utility of potent tetrahydroisoquinoline antitumor antibiotics. Nat Prod Rep 2015; 32:328-47. [PMID: 25273374 PMCID: PMC4806878 DOI: 10.1039/c4np00051j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The ecteinascidin family comprises a number of biologically active compounds, containing two to three tetrahydroisoquinoline subunits. Although isolated from marine tunicates, these compounds share a common pentacyclic core with several antimicrobial compounds found in terrestrial bacteria. Among the tetrahydroisoquinoline natural products, ecteinascidin 743 (Et-743) stands out as the most potent antitumor antibiotics that it is recently approved for treatment of a number of soft tissue sarcomas. In this article, we will review the backgrounds, the mechanism of action, the biosynthesis, and the synthetic studies of Et-743. Also, the development of Et-743 as an antitumor drug is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- V H Le
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, USA.
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49
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Chu QSC, Nielsen TO, Alcindor T, Gupta A, Endo M, Goytain A, Xu H, Verma S, Tozer R, Knowling M, Bramwell VB, Powers J, Seymour LK, Eisenhauer EA. A phase II study of SB939, a novel pan-histone deacetylase inhibitor, in patients with translocation-associated recurrent/metastatic sarcomas-NCIC-CTG IND 200†. Ann Oncol 2015; 26:973-981. [PMID: 25632070 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdv033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A subgroup of sarcomas is characterized by defining chromosomal translocations, creating fusion transcription factor oncogenes. Resultant fusion oncoproteins associate with chromatin-modifying complexes containing histone deacetylases (HDAC), and lead to epigenetic transcriptional dysregulation. HDAC inhibitors were shown to be effective in vitro, reversing gene repression by these complexes, restoring PTEN expression and apoptosis via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. PATIENTS AND METHODS SB939 is an oral inhibitor of classes 1 and 2 HDAC. Eligible patients with recurrent or metastatic translocation-associated sarcoma (TAS) by local pathology were treated with 60 mg/day every other day for 3 of 4 weeks. Central pathology review was conducted with fusion oncogenes characterized, and HDAC2 expression correlated with efficacy in pre-specified methods. RESULTS Twenty-two patients were treated with a median of 2 cycles. Fourteen patients were assessable for response with confirmed specific chromosomal translocations; 8 had a best response of stable disease (SD) (median duration 5.4 months) with no confirmed objective responses. The 3-month progression-free survival (PFS) rate was 49%. Among those with HDAC2 score ≥5, 7/10 had SD, versus 0/3 with HDAC2 score <5. SB939 was considered as well tolerated with <10% patients experienced ≥grade 3 toxicity. CONCLUSION This study was stopped prematurely due to prolonged unavailability of SB939. No objective responses were seen. Although the observed SD in HDAC2 high patients was interesting, due to the small sample size, no definitive conclusion can be drawn about the efficacy of SB939 in this patient population. CLINICAL TRIAL NCT01112384.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q S-C Chu
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton.
| | - T O Nielsen
- Department of Pathology, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver
| | - T Alcindor
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal
| | - A Gupta
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Mount Sinai Hospital/Princess Margaret Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - M Endo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - A Goytain
- Department of Pathology, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver
| | - H Xu
- Investigational New Drug Program, NCIC-Clinical Trials Group, Kingston
| | - S Verma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ottawa Cancer Centre, University of Ottawa, Ottawa
| | - R Tozer
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Jurvinski Cancer Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton
| | - M Knowling
- Department of Pathology, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver
| | - V B Bramwell
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - J Powers
- Investigational New Drug Program, NCIC-Clinical Trials Group, Kingston
| | - L K Seymour
- Investigational New Drug Program, NCIC-Clinical Trials Group, Kingston
| | - E A Eisenhauer
- Investigational New Drug Program, NCIC-Clinical Trials Group, Kingston
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50
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van Maldegem AM, Benson C, Rutkowski P, Blay JY, van den Berg H, Placzke J, Rasper M, Judson I, Juergens H, Dirksen U, Gelderblom H. Etoposide and carbo-or cisplatin combination therapy in refractory or relapsed Ewing sarcoma: a large retrospective study. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015; 62:40-4. [PMID: 25251256 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.25230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with Ewing sarcoma (EWS) who develop refractory or relapsed disease have limited treatment options. In some sarcoma centres in Europe the combination of etoposide with carbo- or cisplatin is being used for these patients, however, there are no published data available yet. Here we investigated the outcome of the combination treatment for patients with advanced Ewing sarcoma in progression after standard treatment. PROCEDURE All patients diagnosed with EWS between 1980 and 2012 in one of six major sarcoma centres in Europe and treated with either carboplatin and etoposide or cisplatin and etoposide were included and data were retrospectively collected for analysis. RESULTS A total of 107 patients enrolled in this study of which 61 received the combination of etoposide and carboplatin and 46 received etoposide and cisplatin. The median overall survival (OS) was 23 months for both patient groups and the 5-year OS was 24.5% for the patients who received carboplatin and etoposide and 20% for those who received cisplatin and etoposide. The progression free survival was better in patients treated with the combination of carboplatin and etoposide (14.5 vs. 6.3 months P = 0.023). CONCLUSION This is a retrospective study on the combination treatment of etoposide and carbo- or cisplatin in refractory Ewing sarcoma. The results justify exploring the combination in a prospective study with relapsed patients.
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