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Cheng K, Seita Y, Whelan EC, Yokomizo R, Hwang YS, Rotolo A, Krantz ID, Ginsberg JP, Kolon TF, Lal P, Luo X, Pierorazio PM, Linn RL, Ryeom S, Sasaki K. Defining the cellular origin of seminoma by transcriptional and epigenetic mapping to the normal human germline. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114323. [PMID: 38861385 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114323] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant male germline development can lead to the formation of seminoma, a testicular germ cell tumor. Seminomas are biologically similar to primordial germ cells (PGCs) and many bear an isochromosome 12p [i(12p)] with two additional copies of the short arm of chromosome 12. By mapping seminoma transcriptomes and open chromatin landscape onto a normal human male germline trajectory, we find that seminoma resembles premigratory/migratory PGCs; however, it exhibits enhanced germline and pluripotency programs and upregulation of genes involved in apoptosis, angiogenesis, and MAPK/ERK pathways. Using pluripotent stem cell-derived PGCs from Pallister-Killian syndrome patients mosaic for i(12p), we model seminoma and identify gene dosage effects that may contribute to transformation. As murine seminoma models do not exist, our analyses provide critical insights into genetic, cellular, and signaling programs driving seminoma transformation, and the in vitro platform developed herein permits evaluation of additional signals required for seminoma tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yasunari Seita
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Eoin C Whelan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ryo Yokomizo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Young Sun Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Antonia Rotolo
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ian D Krantz
- Division of Human Genetics, The Roberts Individualized Medical Genetics Center, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jill P Ginsberg
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Thomas F Kolon
- Division of Urology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Priti Lal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Xunda Luo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Presbyterian Medical Center, 51 North 39th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Phillip M Pierorazio
- Division of Urology, University of Pennsylvania Presbyterian Medical Center, 3737 Market St. 4th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rebecca L Linn
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sandra Ryeom
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, P&S 17-409, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Kotaro Sasaki
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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2
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Carrão Dantas EK, Ferreira CLS, da Cunha Goldstein A, da Silva Fernandes A, Anastacio Ferraz ER, Felzenszwalb I, Araújo-Lima CF. Marketable 1,3-dimethylamylamine and caffeine-based thermogenic supplements: Regulatory genotoxicity assessment through in vitro and in silico approaches. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2024; 87:245-265. [PMID: 38115604 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2023.2294925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
The consumption of dietary supplements to enhance physical performance has increased significantly in the last century, especially thermogenic pre-workout supplements. Nevertheless, this industry has faced criticism for inadequate safety measures surveillance in regulatory issues regarding their products. The aims of our study were to investigate two pre-workout supplements with respect to (1) mutagenicity utilizing Salmonella/microsome assay; (2) genotoxicity employing cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay protocols; and (3) hepatocytoxicity using WST cell proliferation, activities of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and alkaline phosphatase using human liver carcinoma (HepG2) and mouse fibroblast (F C3H) cells. Oxidative stress was determined through glutathione (GSH) measurement and in silico for predictions of pharmacokinetics and toxicity for the most abundant isolated substances present in these supplements. Both supplements induced mutagenicity in all examined bacterial strains, especially in the presence of exogenous metabolism. Further, tested supplements significantly elevated the formation of micronuclei (MN) as well as other cellular phenomena. Concentration- and time-dependent curves were observed for hepatotoxicity in both studied cell lines. In addition, both supplements decreased levels of intracellular and extracellular GSH. In silico predictions showed that the isolated individual compounds failed to induce the observed outcomes. Our findings provide contributions to the molecular mechanisms underlying two pre-workout supplement-induced toxicity and the need for surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Kennedy Carrão Dantas
- Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenicity, Department of Biophysics and Biometry, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Caroline Lopes Simões Ferreira
- Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenicity, Department of Biophysics and Biometry, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alana da Cunha Goldstein
- Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenicity, Department of Biophysics and Biometry, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Andreia da Silva Fernandes
- Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenicity, Department of Biophysics and Biometry, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Israel Felzenszwalb
- Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenicity, Department of Biophysics and Biometry, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carlos Fernando Araújo-Lima
- Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenicity, Department of Biophysics and Biometry, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro State, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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3
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Köberle B, Usanova S, Piee-Staffa A, Heinicke U, Clauss P, Brozovic A, Kaina B. Strong apoptotic response of testis tumor cells following cisplatin treatment. Int Urol Nephrol 2024; 56:1007-1017. [PMID: 37891379 PMCID: PMC10853295 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-023-03825-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Most solid metastatic cancers are resistant to chemotherapy. However, metastatic testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) are cured in over 80% of patients using cisplatin-based combination therapy. Published data suggest that TGCTs are sensitive to cisplatin due to limited DNA repair and presumably also to a propensity to undergo apoptosis. To further investigate this aspect, cisplatin-induced activation of apoptotic pathways was investigated in cisplatin-sensitive testis tumor cells (TTC) and compared to cisplatin-resistant bladder cancer cells. Apoptosis induction was investigated using flow cytometry, caspase activation and PARP-1 cleavage. Immunoblotting and RT-PCR were applied to investigate pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins. Transfections were performed to target p53- and Fas/FasL-mediated apoptotic signaling. Immunoblotting experiments revealed p53 to be induced in TTC, but not bladder cancer cells following cisplatin. Higher levels of pro-apoptotic Bax and Noxa were observed in TTC, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 was solely expressed in bladder cancer cells. Cisplatin led to translocation of Bax to the mitochondrial membrane in TTC, resulting in cytochrome C release. Cisplatin increased the expression of FasR mRNA and FasL protein in all tumor cell lines. Targeting the apoptotic pathway via siRNA-mediated knockdown of p53 and FAS reduced death receptor-mediated apoptosis and increased cisplatin resistance in TTC, indicating the involvement of FAS-mediated apoptosis in the cisplatin TTC response. In conclusion, both the death receptor and the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway become strongly activated in TTC following cisplatin treatment, explaining, together with attenuated DNA repair, their unique sensitivity toward platinum-based anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Köberle
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Svetlana Usanova
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Andrea Piee-Staffa
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ulrike Heinicke
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Philipp Clauss
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Anamaria Brozovic
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Bernd Kaina
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
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4
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Travis LB, Feldman DR, Fung C, Poynter JN, Lockley M, Frazier AL. Adolescent and Young Adult Germ Cell Tumors: Epidemiology, Genomics, Treatment, and Survivorship. J Clin Oncol 2024; 42:696-706. [PMID: 37820296 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.01099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Innovations in the care of adolescent and young adult (AYA) germ cell tumors (GCTs) are needed for one of the most common AYA cancers for which treatment has not significantly changed for several decades. Testicular GCTs (TGCTs) are the most common cancers in 15- to 39-year-old men, and ovarian GCTs (OvGCTs) are the leading gynecologic malignancies in women younger than 25 years. Excellent outcomes, even in widely metastatic disease using cisplatin-based chemotherapy, can be achieved since Einhorn and Donohue's landmark 1977 study in TGCT. However, as the severity of accompanying late effects (ototoxicity, neurotoxicity, cardiovascular disease, second malignant neoplasms, nephrotoxicity, and others) has emerged, efforts to deintensity treatment and find alternatives to cisplatin have taken on new urgency. Current innovations include the collaborative design of clinical trials that accrue GCTs across all ages and both sexes, including adolescents (previously on pediatric trials), and OvGCT (previously on gynecologic-only trials). Joint trials accrue larger sample sizes at a faster rate and therefore evaluate new approaches more rapidly. These joint trials also allow for biospecimen collection to further probe GCT etiology and underlying mechanisms of tumor growth, thus providing new therapeutic options. This AYA approach has been fostered by The Malignant Germ Cell International Consortium, which includes over 115 GCT disease experts from pediatric, gynecologic, and genitourinary oncologies in 16 countries. Trials in development incorporate, to our knowledge, for the first time, molecular risk stratification and precision oncology approaches on the basis of specific GCT biology. This collaborative AYA approach pioneering successfully in GCT could serve as a model for impactful research for other AYA cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lois B Travis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN
| | | | - Chunkit Fung
- J.P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Jenny N Poynter
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Michelle Lockley
- Centre for Cancer Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - A Lindsay Frazier
- Dana Farber-Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA
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5
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Mansur MB, deSouza NM, Natrajan R, Abegglen LM, Schiffman JD, Greaves M. Evolutionary determinants of curability in cancer. Nat Ecol Evol 2023; 7:1761-1770. [PMID: 37620552 DOI: 10.1038/s41559-023-02159-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of drug-resistant cells, most of which have a mutated TP53 gene, prevents curative treatment in most advanced and common metastatic cancers of adults. Yet, a few, rarer malignancies, all of which are TP53 wild type, have high cure rates. In this Perspective, we discuss how common features of curable cancers offer insights into the evolutionary and developmental determinants of drug resistance. Acquired loss of TP53 protein function is the most common genetic change in cancer. This probably reflects positive selection in the context of strong ecosystem pressures including microenvironmental hypoxia. Loss of TP53's functions results in multiple fitness benefits and enhanced evolvability of cancer cells. TP53-null cells survive apoptosis, and tolerate potent oncogenic signalling, DNA damage and genetic instability. In addition, critically, they provide an expanded pool of self-renewing, or stem, cells, the primary units of evolutionary selection in cancer, making subsequent adaptation to therapeutic challenge by drug resistance highly probable. The exceptional malignancies that are curable, including the common genetic subtype of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and testicular seminoma, differ from the common adult cancers in originating prenatally from embryonic or fetal cells that are developmentally primed for TP53-dependent apoptosis. Plus, they have other genetic and phenotypic features that enable dissemination without exposure to selective pressures for TP53 loss, retaining their intrinsic drug hypersensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nandita M deSouza
- Division of Radiotherapy and Imaging, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Department of Imaging, The Royal Marsden National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rachael Natrajan
- The Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, Division of Breast Cancer, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Lisa M Abegglen
- Department of Pediatrics and Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Joshua D Schiffman
- Department of Pediatrics and Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Peel Therapeutics, Inc., Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Mel Greaves
- Centre for Evolution and Cancer, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.
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6
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Chiantore MV, Iuliano M, Mongiovì RM, Luzi F, Mangino G, Grimaldi L, Accardi L, Fiorucci G, Romeo G, Di Bonito P. MicroRNAs Differentially Expressed in Actinic Keratosis and Healthy Skin Scrapings. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1719. [PMID: 37371814 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061719] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a carcinoma in situ precursor of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), the second most common cancer affecting the Caucasian population. AK is frequently present in the sun-exposed skin of the elderly population, UV radiation being the main cause of this cancer, and other risk factors contributing to AK incidence. The dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) observed in different cancers leads to an improper expression of miRNA targets involved in several cellular pathways. The TaqMan Array Human MicroRNA Card assay for miRNA expression profiling was performed in pooled AK compared to healthy skin scraping samples from the same patients. Forty-three miRNAs were modulated in the AK samples. The expression of miR-19b (p < 0.05), -31, -34a (p < 0.001), -126, -146a (p < 0.01), -193b, and -222 (p < 0.05) was validated by RT-qPCR. The MirPath tool was used for MiRNA target prediction and enriched pathways. The top DIANA-mirPath pathways regulated by the targets of the 43 miRNAs are TGF-beta signaling, Proteoglycans in cancer, Pathways in cancer, and Adherens junction (7.30 × 10-10 < p < 1.84 × 10-8). Selected genes regulating the KEGG pathways, i.e., TP53, MDM2, CDKN1A, CDK6, and CCND1, were analyzed. MiRNAs modulated in AK regulate different pathways involved in tumorigenesis, indicating miRNA regulation as a critical step in keratinocyte cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Iuliano
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome-Polo Pontino, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Roberta Maria Mongiovì
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome-Polo Pontino, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Fabiola Luzi
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, San Gallicano Dermatologic Institute IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Mangino
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome-Polo Pontino, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Grimaldi
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome-Polo Pontino, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Luisa Accardi
- EVOR Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianna Fiorucci
- EVOR Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, CNR, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Romeo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome-Polo Pontino, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Paola Di Bonito
- EVOR Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
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7
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Revisiting the Anti-Cancer Toxicity of Clinically Approved Platinating Derivatives. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315410. [PMID: 36499737 PMCID: PMC9793759 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin (CDDP), carboplatin (CP), and oxaliplatin (OXP) are three platinating agents clinically approved worldwide for use against a variety of cancers. They are canonically known as DNA damage inducers; however, that is only one of their mechanisms of cytotoxicity. CDDP mediates its effects through DNA damage-induced transcription inhibition and apoptotic signalling. In addition, CDDP targets the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to induce ER stress, the mitochondria via mitochondrial DNA damage leading to ROS production, and the plasma membrane and cytoskeletal components. CP acts in a similar fashion to CDDP by inducing DNA damage, mitochondrial damage, and ER stress. Additionally, CP is also able to upregulate micro-RNA activity, enhancing intrinsic apoptosis. OXP, on the other hand, at first induces damage to all the same targets as CDDP and CP, yet it is also capable of inducing immunogenic cell death via ER stress and can decrease ribosome biogenesis through its nucleolar effects. In this comprehensive review, we provide detailed mechanisms of action for the three platinating agents, going beyond their nuclear effects to include their cytoplasmic impact within cancer cells. In addition, we cover their current clinical use and limitations, including side effects and mechanisms of resistance.
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Bleve S, Cursano MC, Casadei C, Schepisi G, Menna C, Urbini M, Gianni C, De Padova S, Filograna A, Gallà V, Rosti G, Barone D, Chovanec M, Mego M, De Giorgi U. Inflammatory Biomarkers for Outcome Prediction in Patients With Metastatic Testicular Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:910087. [PMID: 35756636 PMCID: PMC9226315 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.910087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cell tumors are the most common malignant tumors in male young adults. Platinum-based chemotherapy has dramatically improved the outcome of metastatic germ cell tumor patients and overall cure rates now exceed 80%. The choice of medical treatment can be guided by the prognosis estimation which is an important step during the decision-making process. IGCCCG classification plays a pivotal role in the management of advanced disease. However, histological and clinical parameters are the available factors that condition the prognosis, but they do not reflect the tumor's molecular and pathological features and do not predict who will respond to chemotherapy. After first-line chemotherapy 20%-30% of patients relapse and for these patients, the issue of prognostic factors is far more complex. Validated biomarkers and a molecular selection of patients that reflect the pathogenesis are highly needed. The association between cancer-related systemic inflammation, tumorigenesis, and cancer progression has been demonstrated. In the last years, several studies have shown the prognostic utility of immune-inflammation indexes in different tumor types. This review analyzed the prognostic impact of inflammatory markers retrieved from routine blood draws in GCT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bleve
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Maria Concetta Cursano
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Chiara Casadei
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Schepisi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Cecilia Menna
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Milena Urbini
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Caterina Gianni
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Silvia De Padova
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Alessia Filograna
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Valentina Gallà
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Giovanni Rosti
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Domenico Barone
- Radiology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Michal Chovanec
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Michal Mego
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Ugo De Giorgi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
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9
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Országhová Z, Kalavska K, Mego M, Chovanec M. Overcoming Chemotherapy Resistance in Germ Cell Tumors. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10050972. [PMID: 35625709 PMCID: PMC9139090 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) are highly curable malignancies. Excellent survival rates in patients with metastatic disease can be attributed to the exceptional sensitivity of GCTs to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. This hypersensitivity is probably related to alterations in the DNA repair of cisplatin-induced DNA damage, and an excessive apoptotic response. However, chemotherapy fails due to the development of cisplatin resistance in a proportion of patients. The molecular basis of this resistance appears to be multifactorial. Tracking the mechanisms of cisplatin resistance in GCTs, multiple molecules have been identified as potential therapeutic targets. A variety of therapeutic agents have been evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies. These include different chemotherapeutics, targeted therapies, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors, PARP inhibitors, CDK inhibitors, and anti-CD30 therapy, as well as immune-checkpoint inhibitors, epigenetic therapy, and others. These therapeutics have been used as single agents or in combination with cisplatin. Some of them have shown promising in vitro activity in overcoming cisplatin resistance, but have not been effective in clinical trials in refractory GCT patients. This review provides a summary of current knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of cisplatin sensitivity and resistance in GCTs and outlines possible therapeutic approaches that seek to overcome this chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Országhová
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (Z.O.); (M.M.)
| | - Katarina Kalavska
- Translational Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia;
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy Sciences, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Michal Mego
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (Z.O.); (M.M.)
- Translational Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Michal Chovanec
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (Z.O.); (M.M.)
- Correspondence:
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10
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Timmerman DM, Eleveld TF, Gillis AJM, Friedrichs CC, Hillenius S, Remmers TL, Sriram S, Looijenga LHJ. The Role of TP53 in Cisplatin Resistance in Mediastinal and Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111774. [PMID: 34769213 PMCID: PMC8583723 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are considered to be highly curable; however, there are major differences in the outcomes related to histology and anatomical localization. GCTs originating from the testis are, overall, sensitive to platinum-based chemotherapy, whereas GCTs originating from the mediastinum show a worse response, which remains largely unexplained. Here, we address the differences among GCTs from two different anatomical locations (testicular versus mediastinal/extragonadal), with a specific focus on the role of the P53 pathway. It was recently shown that GCTs with TP53 mutations most often localize to the mediastinum. To elucidate the underlying mechanism, TP53 knock-out lines were generated in cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant clones of the representative 2102Ep cell line (wild-type TP53 testicular GCT) and NCCIT cell line (hemizygously mutated TP53, mutant TP53 mediastinal GCT). The full knock-out of TP53 in 2102Ep and resistant NCCIT resulted in an increase in cisplatin resistance, suggesting a contributing role for P53, even in NCCIT, in which P53 had been reported to be non-functional. In conclusion, these results suggest that TP53 mutations contribute to the cisplatin-resistant phenotype of mediastinal GCTs and, therefore, are a potential candidate for targeted treatment. This knowledge provides a novel model system to elucidate the underlying mechanism of clinical behavior and possible alternative treatment of the TP53 mutant and mediastinal GCTs.
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11
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Venditti M, Arcaniolo D, De Sio M, Minucci S. Preliminary Investigation on the Involvement of Cytoskeleton-Related Proteins, DAAM1 and PREP, in Human Testicular Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158094. [PMID: 34360857 PMCID: PMC8347498 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Herein, for the first time, the potential relationships between the cytoskeleton-associated proteins DAAM1 and PREP with different testicular disorders, such as classic seminoma (CS), Leydig cell tumor (LCT), and Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SOS), were evaluated. Six CS, two LCT, and two SOS tissue samples were obtained during inguinal exploration in patients with a suspect testis tumor based on clinical examination and ultrasonography. DAAM1 and PREP protein levels and immunofluorescent localization were analyzed. An increased DAAM1 protein level in CS and SOS as compared to non-pathological (NP) tissue was observed, while LCT showed no significant differences. Conversely, PREP protein level increased in LCT, while it decreased in CS and SOS compared to NP tissue. These results were strongly supported by the immunofluorescence staining, revealing an altered localization and signal intensity of DAAM1 and PREP in the analyzed samples, highlighting a perturbed cytoarchitecture. Interestingly, in LCT spermatogonia, a specific DAAM1 nuclear localization was found, probably due to an enhanced testosterone production, as confirmed by the increased protein levels of steroidogenic enzymes. Finally, although further studies are needed to verify the involvement of other formins and microtubule-associated proteins, this report raised the opportunity to indicate DAAM1 and PREP as new potential markers, supporting the cytoskeleton dynamics changes occurring during normal and/or pathological cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez, Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.V.); (S.M.)
| | - Davide Arcaniolo
- Dipartimento della Donna, del Bambino e di Chirurgia Generale e Specialistica, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luigi De Crecchio 2, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (D.A.); (M.D.S.)
| | - Marco De Sio
- Dipartimento della Donna, del Bambino e di Chirurgia Generale e Specialistica, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luigi De Crecchio 2, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (D.A.); (M.D.S.)
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez, Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.V.); (S.M.)
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12
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Ottaviano M, Giunta EF, Rescigno P, Pereira Mestre R, Marandino L, Tortora M, Riccio V, Parola S, Casula M, Paliogiannis P, Cossu A, Vogl UM, Bosso D, Rosanova M, Mazzola B, Daniele B, Palmieri G, Palmieri G. The Enigmatic Role of TP53 in Germ Cell Tumours: Are We Missing Something? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7160. [PMID: 34281219 PMCID: PMC8267694 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The cure rate of germ cell tumours (GCTs) has significantly increased from the late 1970s since the introduction of cisplatin-based therapy, which to date remains the milestone for GCTs treatment. The exquisite cisplatin sensitivity has been mainly explained by the over-expression in GCTs of wild-type TP53 protein and the lack of TP53 somatic mutations; however, several other mechanisms seem to be involved, many of which remain still elusive. The findings about the role of TP53 in platinum-sensitivity and resistance, as well as the reported evidence of second cancers (SCs) in GCT patients treated only with surgery, suggesting a spectrum of cancer predisposing syndromes, highlight the need for a deepened understanding of the role of TP53 in GCTs. In the following report we explore the complex role of TP53 in GCTs cisplatin-sensitivity and resistance mechanisms, passing through several recent genomic studies, as well as its role in GCT patients with SCs, going through our experience of Center of reference for both GCTs and cancer predisposing syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Ottaviano
- Oncology Unit, Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (D.B.); (M.R.); (B.D.)
- CRCTR Coordinating Rare Tumors Reference Center of Campania Region, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.)
- IOSI (Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland), Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland; (R.P.M.); (L.M.); (U.M.V.)
| | - Emilio Francesco Giunta
- Oncology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, Università Degli Studi Della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Pasquale Rescigno
- Interdisciplinary Group for Translational Research and Clinical Trials, Urological Cancers (GIRT-Uro), Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, 10160 Turin, Italy;
| | - Ricardo Pereira Mestre
- IOSI (Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland), Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland; (R.P.M.); (L.M.); (U.M.V.)
| | - Laura Marandino
- IOSI (Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland), Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland; (R.P.M.); (L.M.); (U.M.V.)
| | - Marianna Tortora
- CRCTR Coordinating Rare Tumors Reference Center of Campania Region, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.)
| | - Vittorio Riccio
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.R.); (S.P.)
| | - Sara Parola
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.R.); (S.P.)
| | - Milena Casula
- Institute of Genetics and Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), 07100 Sassari, Italy; (M.C.); (G.P.)
| | - Panagiotis Paliogiannis
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Medical, Surgical, Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (P.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Antonio Cossu
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Medical, Surgical, Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (P.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Ursula Maria Vogl
- IOSI (Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland), Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland; (R.P.M.); (L.M.); (U.M.V.)
| | - Davide Bosso
- Oncology Unit, Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (D.B.); (M.R.); (B.D.)
| | - Mario Rosanova
- Oncology Unit, Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (D.B.); (M.R.); (B.D.)
| | - Brunello Mazzola
- Department of Urology, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), 6600 Locarno, Switzerland;
| | - Bruno Daniele
- Oncology Unit, Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (D.B.); (M.R.); (B.D.)
| | - Giuseppe Palmieri
- Institute of Genetics and Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), 07100 Sassari, Italy; (M.C.); (G.P.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Medical, Surgical, Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (P.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Giovannella Palmieri
- CRCTR Coordinating Rare Tumors Reference Center of Campania Region, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.)
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13
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Timmerman DM, Remmers TL, Hillenius S, Looijenga LHJ. Mechanisms of TP53 Pathway Inactivation in Embryonic and Somatic Cells-Relevance for Understanding (Germ Cell) Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105377. [PMID: 34065345 PMCID: PMC8161298 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The P53 pathway is the most important cellular pathway to maintain genomic and cellular integrity, both in embryonic and non-embryonic cells. Stress signals induce its activation, initiating autophagy or cell cycle arrest to enable DNA repair. The persistence of these signals causes either senescence or apoptosis. Over 50% of all solid tumors harbor mutations in TP53 that inactivate the pathway. The remaining cancers are suggested to harbor mutations in genes that regulate the P53 pathway such as its inhibitors Mouse Double Minute 2 and 4 (MDM2 and MDM4, respectively). Many reviews have already been dedicated to P53, MDM2, and MDM4, while this review additionally focuses on the other factors that can deregulate P53 signaling. We discuss that P14ARF (ARF) functions as a negative regulator of MDM2, explaining the frequent loss of ARF detected in cancers. The long non-coding RNA Antisense Non-coding RNA in the INK4 Locus (ANRIL) is encoded on the same locus as ARF, inhibiting ARF expression, thus contributing to the process of tumorigenesis. Mutations in tripartite motif (TRIM) proteins deregulate P53 signaling through their ubiquitin ligase activity. Several microRNAs (miRNAs) inactivate the P53 pathway through inhibition of translation. CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) maintains an open chromatin structure at the TP53 locus, explaining its inactivation of CTCF during tumorigenesis. P21, a downstream effector of P53, has been found to be deregulated in different tumor types. This review provides a comprehensive overview of these factors that are known to deregulate the P53 pathway in both somatic and embryonic cells, as well as their malignant counterparts (i.e., somatic and germ cell tumors). It provides insights into which aspects still need to be unraveled to grasp their contribution to tumorigenesis, putatively leading to novel targets for effective cancer therapies.
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Wang Q, Hutt KJ. Evaluation of mitochondria in mouse oocytes following cisplatin exposure. J Ovarian Res 2021; 14:65. [PMID: 33971923 PMCID: PMC8111953 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-021-00817-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cisplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapeutic that damages genomic DNA leading to cell death. It also damages mitochondrial DNA and induces high levels of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS), further sensitising cells to apoptosis. Notably, immature oocytes are particularly vulnerable to cisplatin treatment, a common side effect of which is depletion of the primordial follicle reserve, leading to infertility and early menopause. Cisplatin is known to damage the DNA of oocytes, but the possibility that cisplatin also compromises oocyte survival and quality by damaging mitochondria, has not been investigated. To begin to address this question, neonatal mice were treated with saline or cisplatin (2 mg/kg or 4 mg/kg) and the short and long-term impacts on mitochondria in oocytes were characterised. RESULTS At 6 and 24 h after treatment, mitochondrial localisation, mass and ATP content in immature oocytes were similar between groups. However, TMRM staining intensity, a marker of mitochondrial membrane potential, was decreased in immature oocytes from cisplatin treated mice compared to saline treated controls, consistent with the induction of apoptosis. When mice were super ovulated 5 weeks after exposure, the number of mature oocytes harvested from cisplatin treated mice was significantly lower than controls. Mitochondrial localisation, mass, membrane potential and ATP levels showed no differences between groups. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction may contribute to the depletion of the ovarian reserve caused by cisplatin, but long-term impacts on mitochondria may be minimal as those immature oocytes that survive cisplatin treatment develop into mature oocytes with normal mitochondrial parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaochu Wang
- Ovarian Biology Laboratory, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Karla J Hutt
- Ovarian Biology Laboratory, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
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15
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Köberle B, Schoch S. Platinum Complexes in Colorectal Cancer and Other Solid Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092073. [PMID: 33922989 PMCID: PMC8123298 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cisplatin is successfully used for the treatment of various solid cancers. Unfortunately, it shows no activity in colorectal cancer. The resistance phenotype of colorectal cancer cells is mainly caused by alterations in p53-controlled DNA damage signaling and/or defects in the cellular mismatch repair pathway. Improvement of platinum-based chemotherapy in cisplatin-unresponsive cancers, such as colorectal cancer, might be achieved by newly designed cisplatin analogues, which retain activity in unresponsive tumor cells. Moreover, a combination of cisplatin with biochemical modulators of DNA damage signaling might sensitize cisplatin-resistant tumor cells to the drug, thus providing another strategy to improve cancer therapy. Abstract Cisplatin is one of the most commonly used drugs for the treatment of various solid neoplasms, including testicular, lung, ovarian, head and neck, and bladder cancers. Unfortunately, the therapeutic efficacy of cisplatin against colorectal cancer is poor. Various mechanisms appear to contribute to cisplatin resistance in cancer cells, including reduced drug accumulation, enhanced drug detoxification, modulation of DNA repair mechanisms, and finally alterations in cisplatin DNA damage signaling preventing apoptosis in cancer cells. Regarding colorectal cancer, defects in mismatch repair and altered p53-mediated DNA damage signaling are the main factors controlling the resistance phenotype. In particular, p53 inactivation appears to be associated with chemoresistance and poor prognosis. To overcome resistance in cancers, several strategies can be envisaged. Improved cisplatin analogues, which retain activity in resistant cancer, might be applied. Targeting p53-mediated DNA damage signaling provides another therapeutic strategy to circumvent cisplatin resistance. This review provides an overview on the DNA repair pathways involved in the processing of cisplatin damage and will describe signal transduction from cisplatin DNA lesions, with special attention given to colorectal cancer cells. Furthermore, examples for improved platinum compounds and biochemical modulators of cisplatin DNA damage signaling will be presented in the context of colon cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Köberle
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Adenauerring 20a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Sarah Schoch
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Scheelevägen 2, 223 81 Lund, Sweden
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16
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Between a Rock and a Hard Place: An Epigenetic-Centric View of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071506. [PMID: 33805941 PMCID: PMC8036638 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This minireview focuses on the role of epigenetics in testicular cancer. A working model is developed that postulates that epigenetic features that drive testicular cancer malignancy also enable these tumors to be cured at a high rate with chemotherapy. Chemoresistance may occur by epigenetic uncoupling of malignancy and chemosensitivity, a scenario that may be amenable to epigenetic-based therapies. Abstract Compared to many common solid tumors, the main genetic drivers of most testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are unknown. Decades of focus on genomic alterations in TGCTs including awareness of a near universal increase in copies of chromosome 12p have failed to uncover exceptional driver genes, especially in genes that can be targeted therapeutically. Thus far, TGCT patients have missed out on the benefits of targeted therapies available to treat most other malignancies. In the past decade there has been a greater appreciation that epigenetics may play an especially prominent role in TGCT etiology, progression, and hypersensitivity to conventional chemotherapy. While genetics undoubtedly plays a role in TGCT biology, this mini-review will focus on the epigenetic “states” or features of testicular cancer, with an emphasis on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and miRNAs associated with TGCT susceptibility, initiation, progression, and response to chemotherapy. In addition, we comment on the current status of epigenetic-based therapy and epigenetic biomarker development for TGCTs. Finally, we suggest a unifying “rock and a hard place” or “differentiate or die” model where the tumorigenicity and curability of TGCTs are both dependent on common but still ill-defined epigenetic states.
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17
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Yao L, Cong R, Ji C, Zhou X, Luan J, Meng X, Song N. RNA-Binding Proteins Play an Important Role in the Prognosis of Patients With Testicular Germ Cell Tumor. Front Genet 2021; 12:610291. [PMID: 33777092 PMCID: PMC7990889 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.610291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are common urological neoplasms in young adult males. The outcome of TGCT depends on pathologic type and tumor stage. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) influence numerous cancers via post-transcriptional regulation. The prognostic importance of RBPs in TGCT has not been fully investigated. In this study, we set up a prognostic risk model of TGCT using six significantly differentially expressed RBPs, namely, TRMT61A, POLR2J, DIS3L2, IFIH1, IGHMBP2, and NPM2. The expression profiles were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression datasets. We observed by performing least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses that in the training cohort, the expression of six RBPs was correlated with disease-free survival in patients with TGCT. We assessed the specificity and sensitivity of 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year survival status prediction using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and successfully validated using the test cohorts, the entire TCGA cohort, and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, and gene set enrichment analyses were carried out to seek the possible signaling pathways related with risk score. We also examined the association between the model based on six RBPs and different clinical characteristics. A nomogram was established for TGCT recurrence prediction. Consensus clustering analysis was carried out to identify the clusters of TGCT with different clinical outcomes. Ultimately, external validations of the six-gene risk score were performed by using the GSE3218 and GSE10783 datasets downloaded from the GEO database. In general, our study constructed a prognostic model based on six RBPs, which could serve as independent risk factor in TGCT, especially in seminoma, and might have brilliant clinical application value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangyu Yao
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rong Cong
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chengjian Ji
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiaochen Luan
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xianghu Meng
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ninghong Song
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Urology, The Affiliated Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Artux, China
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18
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Letkovska K, Babal P, Cierna Z, Schmidtova S, Liskova V, Kalavska K, Miskovska V, Horak S, Rejlekova K, Chovanec M, Mardiak J, Janega P, Mego M. Prognostic Value of Apoptosis-Inducing Factor (AIF) in Germ Cell Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040776. [PMID: 33668443 PMCID: PMC7917670 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are the most common solid malignancies in young men. GCTs are extraordinary sensitive to chemotherapy and represent a model of curable cancer. However, in a small proportion of patients the disease progresses or relapses despite administration of salvage chemotherapy. Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that occurs in multicellular organisms. It is well established that dysregulation of apoptosis plays an important role in pathogenesis of malignant diseases and may be associated with tumor progression and resistance to cytotoxic treatment. This study aimed to evaluate expression of apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) in GCTs. We observed lower AIF expression in GCTs compared to normal testicular tissue. We also showed prognostic significance of AIF in GCTs. AIF downregulation might represent one of the mechanisms of inhibition of apoptosis with subsequent facilitation of cell survival and metastatic dissemination of GCTs and perhaps could serve as a potential therapeutic target. Abstract Apoptosis is a strictly regulated process essential for preservation of tissue homeostasis. This study aimed to evaluate expression of apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) in testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) and to correlate expression patterns with clinicopathological variables. Formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded specimens of non-neoplastic testicular tissue and GCTs obtained from 216 patients were included in the study. AIF expression was detected by immunohistochemistry, scored by the multiplicative quickscore method (QS). Normal testicular tissue exhibits higher cytoplasmic granular expression of AIF compared to GCTs (mean QS = 12.77 vs. 4.80, p < 0.0001). Among invasive GCTs, mean QS was the highest in embryonal carcinoma, yolk sac tumor and seminoma, lower in teratoma and the lowest in choriocarcinoma. No nuclear translocation of AIF was observed. Nonpulmonary visceral metastases were associated with lower AIF expression. Metastatic GCTs patients with high AIF expression had better overall survival compared to patients with low AIF expression (HR = 0.26, 95% CI 0.11–0.62, p = 0.048). We observed significantly lower AIF expression in GCTs compared to normal testicular tissue, which is an uncommon finding in malignant tumors. AIF downregulation might represent one of the mechanisms of inhibition of apoptosis and promotion of cell survival in GCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Letkovska
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.L.); (P.B.); (Z.C.); (S.H.); (P.J.)
| | - Pavel Babal
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.L.); (P.B.); (Z.C.); (S.H.); (P.J.)
| | - Zuzana Cierna
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.L.); (P.B.); (Z.C.); (S.H.); (P.J.)
- Department of Pathology, Faculty Hospital, A. Zarnova, 917 75 Trnava, Slovakia
| | - Silvia Schmidtova
- Translational Research Unit, 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.S.); (K.K.)
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, 814 39 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Liskova
- Institute of Clinical and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Katarína Kalavska
- Translational Research Unit, 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.S.); (K.K.)
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, 814 39 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Vera Miskovska
- 1st Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, St. Elisabeth Cancer Institute, 812 50 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Samuel Horak
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.L.); (P.B.); (Z.C.); (S.H.); (P.J.)
| | - Katarina Rejlekova
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.R.); (M.C.); (J.M.)
| | - Michal Chovanec
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.R.); (M.C.); (J.M.)
| | - Jozef Mardiak
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.R.); (M.C.); (J.M.)
| | - Pavel Janega
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.L.); (P.B.); (Z.C.); (S.H.); (P.J.)
| | - Michal Mego
- Translational Research Unit, 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.S.); (K.K.)
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.R.); (M.C.); (J.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +421-2-59378366; Fax: +421-2-54774943
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19
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Kozakova K, Mego M, Cheng L, Chovanec M. Promising novel therapies for relapsed and refractory testicular germ cell tumors. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2020; 21:53-69. [PMID: 33138660 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2021.1838279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are the most common solid malignancies in young men. The overall cure rate of GCT patients in metastatic stage is excellent, however; patients with relapsed or refractory disease have poor prognosis. Attempts to treat refractory disease with novel effective treatment to improve prognosis have been historically dismal and the ability to predict prognosis and treatment response in GCTs did not sufficiently improve in the last three decades. AREAS COVERED We performed a comprehensive literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE to identify original and review articles (years 1964-2020) reporting on current improvement salvage treatment in GCTs and novel treatment options including molecularly targeted therapy and epigenetic approach. Review articles were further searched for additional original articles. EXPERT OPINION Despite multimodal treatment approaches the treatment of relapsed or platinum-refractory GCTs remains a challenge. High-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) regimens with autologous stem-cell transplant (ASCT) from peripheral blood showed promising results in larger retrospective studies. Promising results from in vitro studies raised high expectations in molecular targets. So far, the lacking efficacy in small and unselected trials do not shed a light on targeted therapy. Currently, wide inclusion of patients into clinical trials is highly advised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristyna Kozakova
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, National Cancer Institute , Bratislava, Slovakia.,2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute , Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Michal Mego
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute , Bratislava, Slovakia.,Division of Hematology Oncology, Indiana University Simon Cancer Center , Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Liang Cheng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Department of Urology, Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Michal Chovanec
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute , Bratislava, Slovakia.,Division of Hematology Oncology, Indiana University Simon Cancer Center , Indianapolis, IN, USA
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20
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Cisplatin Resistance in Testicular Germ Cell Tumors: Current Challenges from Various Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061601. [PMID: 32560427 PMCID: PMC7352163 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors share a marked sensitivity to cisplatin, contributing to their overall good prognosis. However, a subset of patients develop resistance to platinum-based treatments, by still-elusive mechanisms, experiencing poor quality of life due to multiple (often ineffective) interventions and, eventually, dying from disease. Currently, there is a lack of defined treatment opportunities for these patients that tackle the mechanism(s) underlying the emergence of resistance. Herein, we aim to provide a multifaceted overview of cisplatin resistance in testicular germ cell tumors, from the clinical perspective, to the pathobiology (including mechanisms contributing to induction of the resistant phenotype), to experimental models available for studying this occurrence. We provide a systematic summary of pre-target, on-target, post-target, and off-target mechanisms putatively involved in cisplatin resistance, providing data from preclinical studies and from those attempting validation in clinical samples, including those exploring specific alterations as therapeutic targets, some of them included in ongoing clinical trials. We briefly discuss the specificities of resistance related to teratoma (differentiated) phenotype, including the phenomena of growing teratoma syndrome and development of somatic-type malignancy. Cisplatin resistance is most likely multifactorial, and a combination of therapeutic strategies will most likely produce the best clinical benefit.
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Sakurai Y, Ichinoe M, Yoshida K, Nakazato Y, Saito S, Satoh M, Nakada N, Sanoyama I, Umezawa A, Numata Y, Shi-Xu J, Ichihara M, Takahashi M, Murakumo Y. Inactivation of REV7 enhances chemosensitivity and overcomes acquired chemoresistance in testicular germ cell tumors. Cancer Lett 2020; 489:100-110. [PMID: 32553781 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
REV7 is a multitasking protein involved in replication past DNA lesions, cell cycle regulation, and gene expression. REV7 is highly expressed in the adult testis and plays an essential role in primordial germ cell maintenance in mice. In this study, we analyzed whether REV7 can be a molecular target for the treatment of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs), in which acquired chemoresistance is a major cause of treatment failure. Strong expression of REV7 was detected in human TGCT tissues by immunohistochemistry. REV7 depletion in the TGCT cell lines suppressed cell proliferation and increased sensitivity to cisplatin and doxorubicin. cDNA microarray analysis revealed that REV7 depletion downregulated genes in the DNA repair gene set and upregulated genes in the apoptosis gene set. REV7 depletion-provoked chemosensitivity was associated with DNA double-strand break accumulation and apoptosis activation. In addition, inactivation of REV7 in cisplatin-resistant TGCT cells recovered chemosensitivity at almost equal levels as parental cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results indicate that inactivation of REV7 enhances chemosensitivity and overcomes chemoresistance in TGCT cells, suggesting REV7 as a potential therapeutic target in chemoresistant TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasutaka Sakurai
- Department of Pathology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Masaaki Ichinoe
- Department of Pathology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Kazuki Yoshida
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuka Nakazato
- Department of Pathology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Shoji Saito
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan; Department of Nephrology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masashi Satoh
- Department of Immunology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Norihiro Nakada
- Department of Pathology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Itaru Sanoyama
- Department of Pathology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Atsuko Umezawa
- Department of Pathology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Numata
- Department of Pathology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Jiang Shi-Xu
- Department of Pathology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ichihara
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Life and Health Sciences, Chubu University, Kasugai, Japan
| | - Masahide Takahashi
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Murakumo
- Department of Pathology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan.
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22
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de Vries G, Rosas-Plaza X, van Vugt MATM, Gietema JA, de Jong S. Testicular cancer: Determinants of cisplatin sensitivity and novel therapeutic opportunities. Cancer Treat Rev 2020; 88:102054. [PMID: 32593915 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2020.102054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Testicular cancer (TC) is the most common solid tumor among men aged between 15 and 40 years. TCs are highly aneuploid and the 12p isochromosome is the most frequent chromosomal abnormality. The mutation rate is of TC is low, with recurrent mutations in KIT and KRAS observed only at low frequency in seminomas. Overall cure rates are high, even in a metastatic setting, resulting from excellent cisplatin sensitivity of TCs. Factors contributing to the observed cisplatin sensitivity include defective DNA damage repair and a hypersensitive apoptotic response to DNA damage. Nonetheless, around 10-20% of TC patients with metastatic disease cannot be cured by cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Resistance mechanisms include downregulation of OCT4 and failure to induce PUMA and NOXA, elevated levels of MDM2, and hyperactivity of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Several pre-clinical approaches have proven successful in overcoming cisplatin resistance, including specific targeting of PARP, MDM2 or AKT/mTOR combined with cisplatin. Finally, patient-derived xenograft models hold potential for mechanistic studies and pre-clinical validation of novel therapeutic strategies in TC. While clinical trials investigating targeted drugs have been disappointing, pre-clinical successes with chemotherapy and targeted drug combinations fuel the need for further investigation in clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerda de Vries
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ximena Rosas-Plaza
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel A T M van Vugt
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jourik A Gietema
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Steven de Jong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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23
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Lobo J, Alzamora MA, Guimarães R, Cantante M, Lopes P, Braga I, Maurício J, Jerónimo C, Henrique R. p53 and MDM2 expression in primary and metastatic testicular germ cell tumors: Association with clinical outcome. Andrology 2020; 8:1233-1242. [PMID: 32384200 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are highly sensitive to platinum-based chemotherapy, and wild-type p53 seems to play a pivotal role in this susceptibility. On the other hand, overexpression of MDM2 seems to entail treatment resistance and unfavorable prognosis. OBJECTIVES We aimed to describe p53 and MDM2 immunoexpression in a well-characterized cohort of primary and metastatic TGCTs and evaluate associations with clinicopathological and prognostic variables, including survival. MATERIALS AND METHODS 237 primary tumor samples and 12 metastases were evaluated for p53 and MDM2 immunoexpression using digital image analysis. Clinical records of all patients were reviewed for baseline clinical/pathologic characteristics and follow-up. RESULTS A significant positive correlation between p53 and MDM2 H-scores was found (rs = 0.590, P < .0001). Non-seminomas showed significantly higher expression levels of both p53 and MDM2 (P = .0002, P < .0001), which peaked in embryonal carcinomas and choriocarcinomas. Percentage of immunoexpressing cells and H-score were significantly higher in chemo-treated metastases compared with chemo-naïve primary tumors for MDM2 (P ≤ .0001 for both), but not for p53 (P = .919 and P = .703, respectively). Cases with higher MDM2 immunoexpression showed a statistically significant trend for association with poorer prognosis (P = .043). Relapse/progression-free survival at 12 months post-diagnosis was lower in the "MDM2-high" (≥P50) vs. the "MDM2-low" (<P50) expression groups. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION In TGCTs, MDM2 overexpression may indicate a more aggressive tumor phenotype, with propensity for therapy resistance and recurrence. If validated in larger multi-institutional studies with precise quantification, it may be envisioned as a useful predictive biomarker of poor response to cisplatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Ana Alzamora
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Guimarães
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Cantante
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Lopes
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Isaac Braga
- Department of Urology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Joaquina Maurício
- Department of Medical Oncology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
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24
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Camacho-Moll ME, Macdonald J, Looijenga LHJ, Rimmer MP, Donat R, Marwick JA, Shukla CJ, Carragher N, Jørgensen A, Mitchell RT. The oncogene Gankyrin is expressed in testicular cancer and contributes to cisplatin sensitivity in embryonal carcinoma cells. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:1124. [PMID: 31744479 PMCID: PMC6862764 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-6340-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC) develops from pre-malignant germ neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) cells. GCNIS originates from fetal gonocytes (POU5F1+/MAGE-A4−), which fail to differentiate to pre-spermatogonia (POU5F1−/MAGE-A4+) and undergo malignant transformation. Gankyrin is an oncogene which has been shown to prevent POU5F1 degradation and specifically interact with MAGE-A4 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. We aimed to investigate the role of Gankyrin in progression from gonocyte to pre-invasive GCNIS and subsequent invasive TGCC. Methods We determined Gankyrin expression in human fetal testicular tissue (gestational weeks 9–20; n = 38), human adult testicular tissue with active spermatogenesis (n = 9), human testicular tissue with germ cell maturation delay (n = 4), testicular tissue from patients with pre-invasive GCNIS (n = 6), and invasive TGCC including seminoma (n = 6) and teratoma (n = 7). Functional analysis was performed in-vitro by siRNA knock-down of Gankyrin in the NTera2 cells (derived from embryonal carcinoma). Results Germ cell expression of Gankyrin was restricted to a sub-population of prespermatogonia in human fetal testes. Nuclear Gankyrin was also expressed in GCNIS cells of childhood and adult pre-invasive TGCC patients, and in GCNIS from seminoma and non-seminoma patients. Cytoplasmic expression was observed in seminoma tumour cells and NTera2 cells. Gankyrin knock-down in NTera2 cells resulted in an increase in apoptosis mediated via the TP53 pathway, whilst POU5F1 expression was unaffected. Furthermore, Gankyrin knock-down in NTera2 cells increased cisplatin sensitivity with an increase in cell death (13%, p < 0.05) following Gankyrin knock-down, when compared to cisplatin treatment alone, likely via BAX and FAS. Our results demonstrate that Gankyrin expression changes in germ cells during normal transition from gonocyte to prespermatogonia. In addition, changes in Gankyrin localisation are associated with progression of pre-invasive GCNIS to invasive TGCC. Furthermore, we found that Gankyrin is involved in the regulation of NTera2 cell survival and that a reduction in Gankyrin expression can modulate cisplatin sensitivity. Conclusions These results suggest that manipulation of Gankyrin expression may reduce the cisplatin dose required for the treatment of TGCC, with benefits in reducing dose-dependent side effects of chemotherapy. Further studies are required in order to assess the effects of modulating Gankyrin on GCNIS/TGCC using in vivo models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E Camacho-Moll
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Noreste, Delegación Nuevo León, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Calle 2 de abril 501, esq. San Luis Potosí, Col. Independencia, CP, 64720, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico.,Centro de Diagnóstico Molecular y Medicina Personalizada, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Monterrey, Av. Ignacio Morones Prieto 4500 Pte, N. L, 66238, San Pedro Garza García, Mexico
| | - Joni Macdonald
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - L H J Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus University, Medical Center, Cancer Center, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Wytemaweg 80, 3015, Rotterdam, CN, Netherlands.,Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584, CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Michael P Rimmer
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Roland Donat
- Department of Urology, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - John A Marwick
- The MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - C J Shukla
- Department of Urology, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Neil Carragher
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9 2100 KBH Ø, Copenhagen, UK
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH16 4TJ, UK.
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25
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Kleih M, Böpple K, Dong M, Gaißler A, Heine S, Olayioye MA, Aulitzky WE, Essmann F. Direct impact of cisplatin on mitochondria induces ROS production that dictates cell fate of ovarian cancer cells. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:851. [PMID: 31699970 PMCID: PMC6838053 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-2081-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 228] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC) frequently receive platinum-based chemotherapeutics, such as cisplatin. Cisplatin binds to DNA and induces DNA-damage culminating in mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Interestingly, mitochondrial DNA is critically affected by cisplatin but its relevance in cell death induction is scarcely investigated. We find that cisplatin sensitive HGSC cell lines contain higher mitochondrial content and higher levels of mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) than cells resistant to cisplatin induced cell death. In clonal sub-lines from OVCAR-3 mitochondrial content and basal oxygen consumption rate correlate with sensitivity to cisplatin induced apoptosis. Mitochondria are in two ways pivotal for cisplatin sensitivity because not only knock-down of BAX and BAK but also the ROS scavenger glutathione diminish cisplatin induced apoptosis. Mitochondrial ROS correlates with mitochondrial content and reduction of mitochondrial biogenesis by knock-down of transcription factors PGC1α or TFAM attenuates both mtROS induction and cisplatin induced apoptosis. Increasing mitochondrial ROS by inhibition or knock-down of the ROS-protective uncoupling protein UCP2 enhances cisplatin induced apoptosis. Similarly, enhancing ROS by high-dose ascorbic acid or H2O2 augments cisplatin induced apoptosis. In summary, mitochondrial content and the resulting mitochondrial capacity to produce ROS critically determine HGSC cell sensitivity to cisplatin induced apoptosis. In line with this observation, data from the human protein atlas (www.proteinatlas.org) indicates that high expression of mitochondrial marker proteins (TFAM and TIMM23) is a favorable prognostic factor in ovarian cancer patients. Thus, we propose mitochondrial content as a biomarker for the response to platinum-based therapies. Functionally, this might be exploited by increasing mitochondrial content or mitochondrial ROS production to enhance sensitivity to cisplatin based anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Kleih
- Dr. Margarete-Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and University of Tuebingen, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Kathrin Böpple
- Dr. Margarete-Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and University of Tuebingen, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Meng Dong
- Dr. Margarete-Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and University of Tuebingen, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Andrea Gaißler
- Dr. Margarete-Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and University of Tuebingen, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Simon Heine
- Dr. Margarete-Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and University of Tuebingen, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Monilola A Olayioye
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Walter E Aulitzky
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Robert-Bosch-Hospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Frank Essmann
- Dr. Margarete-Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and University of Tuebingen, Stuttgart, Germany.
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26
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De Giorgi U, Casadei C, Bergamini A, Attademo L, Cormio G, Lorusso D, Pignata S, Mangili G. Therapeutic Challenges for Cisplatin-Resistant Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101584. [PMID: 31627378 PMCID: PMC6826947 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of patients with advanced ovarian germ cell cancer are treated by cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Despite adequate first-line treatment, nearly one third of patients relapse and almost half develop cisplatin-resistant disease, which is often fatal. The treatment of cisplatin-resistant disease is challenging and prognosis remains poor. There are limited data on the efficacy of specific chemotherapeutic regimens, high-dose chemotherapy with autologous progenitor cell support and targeted therapies. The inclusion of patients in clinical trials is strongly recommended, especially in clinical trials on the most frequent male germ cell tumors, to offer wider therapeutic opportunities. Here, we provide an overview of current and potential new treatment options including combination chemotherapy, high-dose chemotherapy and molecular targeted therapies, for patients with cisplatin-resistant ovarian germ cell tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo De Giorgi
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, 47014 Meldola, Italy.
| | - Chiara Casadei
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, 47014 Meldola, Italy.
| | - Alice Bergamini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Laura Attademo
- Department of Urology and Gynecology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Oncologico Giovanni Paolo II, 70124 Bari, Italy.
| | - Domenica Lorusso
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, Department of Woman, Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Sandro Pignata
- Department of Urology and Gynecology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Giorgia Mangili
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
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27
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Singh R, Fazal Z, Freemantle SJ, Spinella MJ. Mechanisms of cisplatin sensitivity and resistance in testicular germ cell tumors. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2019; 2:580-594. [PMID: 31538140 PMCID: PMC6752046 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2019.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are a cancer pharmacology success story with a majority of patients cured even in the highly advanced and metastatic setting. Successful treatment of TGCTs is primarily due to the exquisite responsiveness of this solid tumor to cisplatin-based therapy. However, a significant percentage of patients are, or become, refractory to cisplatin and die from progressive disease. Mechanisms for both clinical hypersensitivity and resistance have largely remained a mystery despite the promise of applying lessons to the majority of solid tumors that are not curable in the metastatic setting. Recently, this promise has been heightened by the realization that distinct (and perhaps pharmacologically replicable) epigenetic states, rather than fixed genetic alterations, may play dominant roles in not only TGCT etiology and progression but also their curability with conventional chemotherapies. In this review, it discusses potential mechanisms of TGCT cisplatin sensitivity and resistance to conventional chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratnakar Singh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Zeeshan Fazal
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Sarah J Freemantle
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Michael J Spinella
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.,The Carle Illinois College of Medicine , University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.,The Cancer Center of Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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28
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Bloom JC, Loehr AR, Schimenti JC, Weiss RS. Germline genome protection: implications for gamete quality and germ cell tumorigenesis. Andrology 2019; 7:516-526. [PMID: 31119900 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Germ cells have a unique and critical role as the conduit for hereditary information and therefore employ multiple strategies to protect genomic integrity and avoid mutations. Unlike somatic cells, which often respond to DNA damage by arresting the cell cycle and conducting DNA repair, germ cells as well as long-lived pluripotent stem cells typically avoid the use of error-prone repair mechanisms and favor apoptosis, reducing the risk of genetic alterations. Testicular germ cell tumors, the most common cancers of young men, arise from pre-natal germ cells. OBJECTIVES To summarize the current understanding of DNA damage response mechanisms in pre-meiotic germ cells and to discuss how they impact both the origins of testicular germ cell tumors and their remarkable responsiveness to genotoxic chemotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a review of literature gathered from PubMed regarding the DNA damage response properties of testicular germ cell tumors and the germ cells from which they arise, as well as the influence of these mechanisms on therapeutic responses by testicular germ cell tumors. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of how the developmental origins of male germ cells and their inherent germ cell-like DNA damage response directly impact the development and therapeutic sensitivity of testicular germ cell tumors. CONCLUSIONS The DNA damage response of germ cells directly impacts the development and therapeutic sensitivity of testicular germ cell tumors. Recent advances in the study of primordial germ cells, post-natal mitotically dividing germ cells, and pluripotent stem cells will allow for new investigations into the initiation, progression, and treatment of testicular germ cell tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Bloom
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - A R Loehr
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - J C Schimenti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - R S Weiss
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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29
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Chantarawong W, Kuncharoen N, Tanasupawat S, Chanvorachote P. Lumichrome Inhibits Human Lung Cancer Cell Growth and Induces Apoptosis via a p53-Dependent Mechanism. Nutr Cancer 2019; 71:1390-1402. [PMID: 31074646 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2019.1610183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Lumichrome, a major derivative of riboflavin, may exhibit pharmacological activity against cancer cells. Riboflavin is a vitamin found in food, however, certain evidence has suggested its possible potentiating effects on cancer progression. Here, we have shown for the first time that unlike riboflavin, lumichrome can suppress lung cancer cell growth and reduce survival in both normal and anchorage-independent conditions. In addition, lumichrome induced apoptosis in lung cancer cells via a p53-dependent mitochondrial mechanism with substantial selectivity, shown by its lesser toxicity to the normal primary dermal papilla cells. The potency of lumichrome in killing lung cancer cells was found to be comparable to that of cisplatin, a standard chemotherapeutic drug for lung cancer treatment. With regard to the mechanism, lumichrome significantly upregulated p53 and decreased its downstream target BCL-2. Such a shift of BCL-2 family protein balance further activated caspase-9 and -3 and finally executed apoptosis. Furthermore, lumichrome potentially suppressed cancer stem cells (CSCs) in lung cancer by dramatically suppressing CSC markers together with the CSC-maintaining cell signaling namely protein kinase B (AKT) and β-catenin. To conclude, the present study has unraveled a novel role and mechanism of lumichrome against lung cancer that may benefit the development of the compound for management of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wipa Chantarawong
- Cell-based Drug and Health Products Development Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University , Bangkok , Thailand
| | - Nattakorn Kuncharoen
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University , Bangkok , Thailand
| | - Somboon Tanasupawat
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University , Bangkok , Thailand
| | - Pithi Chanvorachote
- Cell-based Drug and Health Products Development Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University , Bangkok , Thailand.,Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University , Bangkok , Thailand
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30
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Batool A, Karimi N, Wu XN, Chen SR, Liu YX. Testicular germ cell tumor: a comprehensive review. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:1713-1727. [PMID: 30671589 PMCID: PMC11105513 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03022-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Testicular tumors are the most common tumors in adolescent and young men and germ cell tumors (TGCTs) account for most of all testicular cancers. Increasing incidence of TGCTs among males provides strong motivation to understand its biological and genetic basis. Gains of chromosome arm 12p and aneuploidy are nearly universal in TGCTs, but TGCTs have low point mutation rate. It is thought that TGCTs develop from premalignant intratubular germ cell neoplasia that is believed to arise from the failure of normal maturation of gonocytes during fetal or postnatal development. Progression toward invasive TGCTs (seminoma and nonseminoma) then occurs after puberty. Both inherited genetic factors and environmental risk factors emerge as important contributors to TGCT susceptibility. Genome-wide association studies have so far identified more than 30 risk loci for TGCTs, suggesting that a polygenic model fits better with the genetic landscape of the disease. Despite high cure rates because of its particular sensitivity to platinum-based chemotherapy, exploration of mechanisms underlying the occurrence, progression, metastasis, recurrence, chemotherapeutic resistance, early diagnosis and optional clinical therapeutics without long-term side effects are urgently needed to reduce the cancer burden in this underserved age group. Herein, we present an up-to-date review on clinical challenges, origin and progression, risk factors, TGCT mouse models, serum diagnostic markers, resistance mechanisms, miRNA regulation, and database resources of TGCTs. We appeal that more attention should be paid to the basic research and clinical diagnosis and treatment of TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aalia Batool
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Najmeh Karimi
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiang-Nan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Su-Ren Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
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31
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Schmidtova S, Kalavska K, Kucerova L. Molecular Mechanisms of Cisplatin Chemoresistance and Its Circumventing in Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Curr Oncol Rep 2018; 20:88. [PMID: 30259297 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-018-0730-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) represent the most common solid tumors affecting young men. Majority of TGCTs respond well to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. However, patients with refractory disease have limited treatment modalities associated with poor prognosis. Here, we discuss the main molecular mechanisms associated with acquired cisplatin resistance in TGCTs and how their understanding might help in the development of new approaches to tackle this clinically relevant problem. We also discuss recent data on the strategies of circumventing the cisplatin resistance from different tumor types potentially efficient also in TGCTs. RECENT FINDINGS Recent data regarding deregulation of various signaling pathways as well as genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in cisplatin-resistant TGCTs have contributed to understanding of the mechanisms related to the resistance to cisplatin-based chemotherapy in these tumors. Understanding of these mechanisms enabled explaining why majority but not all TGCTs patients are curable with cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Moreover, it could lead to the development of more effective treatment of refractory TGCTs and potentially other solid tumors resistant to platinum-based chemotherapy. This review provides additional insights into mechanisms associated with cisplatin resistance in TGCTs, which is a complex phenomenon, and there is a need for novel modalities to overcome it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Schmidtova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Katarina Kalavska
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovakia
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, Klenová 1, 833 10, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Translational Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Klenová 1, Bratislava, 833 10, Slovakia
| | - Lucia Kucerova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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32
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Schultze E, Collares T, Lucas CG, Seixas FK. Synergistic and additive effects of ATRA in combination with different anti-tumor compounds. Chem Biol Interact 2018; 285:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2018.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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33
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Romano FJ, Rossetti S, Conteduca V, Schepisi G, Cavaliere C, Di Franco R, La Mantia E, Castaldo L, Nocerino F, Ametrano G, Cappuccio F, Malzone G, Montanari M, Vanacore D, Quagliariello V, Piscitelli R, Pepe MF, Berretta M, D'Aniello C, Perdonà S, Muto P, Botti G, Ciliberto G, Veneziani BM, De Falco F, Maiolino P, Caraglia M, Montella M, De Giorgi U, Facchini G. Role of DNA repair machinery and p53 in the testicular germ cell cancer: a review. Oncotarget 2018; 7:85641-85649. [PMID: 27821802 PMCID: PMC5356765 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.13063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Notwithstanding the peculiar sensitivity to cisplatin-based treatment, resulting in a very high percentage of cures even in advanced stages of the disease, still we do not know the biological mechanisms that make Testicular Germ Cell Tumor (TGCT) “unique” in the oncology scene. p53 and MDM2 seem to play a pivotal role, according to several in vitro observations, but no correlation has been found between their mutational or expression status in tissue samples and patients clinical outcome. Furthermore, other players seem to be on stage: DNA Damage Repair Machinery (DDR) , especially Homologous Recombination (HR) proteins, above all Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM), cooperates with p53 in response to DNA damage, activating apoptotic cascade and contributing to cell “fate”. Homologous Recombination deficiency has been assumed to be a Germ Cell Tumor characteristic underlying platinum-sensitivity, whereby Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), an enzyme involved in HR DNA repair, is an intriguing target: PARP inhibitors have already entered in clinical practice of other malignancies and trials are recruiting TGCT patients in order to validate their role in this disease. This paper aims to summarize evidence, trying to outline an overview of DDR implications not only in TGCT curability, but also in resistance to chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Jacopo Romano
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rossetti
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Uro-Gynaecological Oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori 'Fondazione G. Pascale', IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenza Conteduca
- Department of Medical Oncology, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Schepisi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Carla Cavaliere
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Department of Onco-Ematology Medical Oncology, S.G. Moscati Hospital of Taranto, Taranto, Italy
| | - Rossella Di Franco
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Radiation Oncology, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori 'Fondazione Giovanni Pascale', IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Elvira La Mantia
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale"-IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Castaldo
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Department of Uro-Gynaecological Oncology, Division of Urology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori 'Fondazione G. Pascale', IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia Nocerino
- Epidemiology Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori 'Fondazione Giovanni Pascale', IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Gianluca Ametrano
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Radiation Oncology, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori 'Fondazione Giovanni Pascale', IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesca Cappuccio
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Psicology Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori 'Fondazione Giovanni Pascale', IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Gabriella Malzone
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale"-IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Micaela Montanari
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Vanacore
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Quagliariello
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy
| | - Raffaele Piscitelli
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Pharmacy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Fondazione G. Pascale Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Filomena Pepe
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale"-IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Berretta
- Department of Medical Oncology, CRO Aviano, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, Italy
| | - Carmine D'Aniello
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.R.N. dei COLLI "Ospedali Monaldi-Cotugno-CTO", Napoli, Italy
| | - Sisto Perdonà
- Department of Uro-Gynaecological Oncology, Division of Urology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori 'Fondazione G. Pascale', IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Muto
- Radiation Oncology, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori 'Fondazione Giovanni Pascale', IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Gerardo Botti
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale"-IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Directorate, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori 'Fondazione Giovanni Pascale', IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Bianca Maria Veneziani
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco De Falco
- Psicology Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori 'Fondazione Giovanni Pascale', IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Piera Maiolino
- Pharmacy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Fondazione G. Pascale Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Montella
- Epidemiology Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori 'Fondazione Giovanni Pascale', IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Ugo De Giorgi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Gaetano Facchini
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per L'implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Uro-Gynaecological Oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori 'Fondazione G. Pascale', IRCCS, Naples, Italy
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34
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Rossi M, Colecchia D, Ilardi G, Acunzo M, Nigita G, Sasdelli F, Celetti A, Strambi A, Staibano S, Croce CM, Chiariello M. MAPK15 upregulation promotes cell proliferation and prevents DNA damage in male germ cell tumors. Oncotarget 2018; 7:20981-98. [PMID: 26988910 PMCID: PMC4991506 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cell tumors (GCT) are the most common malignancies in males between 15 and 35 years of age. Despite the high cure rate, achieved through chemotherapy and/or surgery, the molecular basis of GCT etiology is still largely obscure. Here, we show a positive correlation between MAPK15 (ERK8; ERK7) expression and specific GCT subtypes, with the highest levels found in the aggressive embryonal carcinomas (EC). Indeed, in corresponding cellular models for EC, MAPK15 enhanced tumorigenicity in vivo and promoted cell proliferation in vitro, supporting a role for this kinase in human GCT. At molecular level, we demonstrated that endogenous MAPK15 is necessary to sustain cell cycle progression of EC cells, by limiting p53 activation and preventing the triggering of p53-dependent mechanisms resulting in cell cycle arrest. To understand MAPK15-dependent mechanisms impinging on p53 activation, we demonstrate that this kinase efficiently protects cells from DNA damage. Moreover, we show that the ability of MAPK15 to control the autophagic process is necessary for basal management of DNA damage and for tumor formation controlled by the kinase. In conclusion, our findings suggest that MAPK15 overexpression may contribute to the malignant transformation of germ cells by controlling a “stress support” autophagic pathway, able to prevent DNA damage and the consequent activation of the p53 tumor suppressor. Moreover, in light of these results, MAPK15-specific inhibitors might represent new tools to enhance the therapeutic index of cytotoxic therapy in GCT treatment, and to increase the sensitivity to DNA-damaging drugs in other chemotherapy-resistant human tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Rossi
- Istituto Toscano Tumori (ITT), Core Research Laboratory (CRL), AOU Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - David Colecchia
- Istituto Toscano Tumori (ITT), Core Research Laboratory (CRL), AOU Senese, Siena, Italy.,Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Siena, Italy
| | - Gennaro Ilardi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Mario Acunzo
- Department of Molecular Virology, Immunology and Medical Genetics, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Department of Molecular Virology, Immunology and Medical Genetics, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Federica Sasdelli
- Istituto Toscano Tumori (ITT), Core Research Laboratory (CRL), AOU Senese, Siena, Italy.,Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Siena, Italy
| | - Angela Celetti
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela Strambi
- Istituto Toscano Tumori (ITT), Core Research Laboratory (CRL), AOU Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefania Staibano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Carlo Maria Croce
- Department of Molecular Virology, Immunology and Medical Genetics, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mario Chiariello
- Istituto Toscano Tumori (ITT), Core Research Laboratory (CRL), AOU Senese, Siena, Italy.,Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Siena, Italy
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35
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Fukawa T, Kanayama HO. Current knowledge of risk factors for testicular germ cell tumors. Int J Urol 2018; 25:337-344. [PMID: 29345008 DOI: 10.1111/iju.13519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The development of the human gonads is tightly regulated by the correct sequential expression of many genes and hormonal activity. Disturbance of this regulation does not only prevent proper development of the gonads, but it also contributes to the development of testicular germ cell tumors. Recent genetic studies, especially genome-wide association studies, have made great progress in understanding genetic susceptibility. Although there is strong evidence of inherited risks, many environmental factors also contribute to the development of testicular germ cell tumors. Histopathological studies have shown that most testicular germ cell tumors arise from germ cell neoplasia in situ, which is thought to be arrested and transformed primordial germ cells. Seminoma has features identical to germ cell neoplasia in situ or primordial germ cells, whereas non-seminoma shows varied differentiation. Seminomas and embryonic cell carcinomas have the feature of pluripotency, which is thought to be the cause of histological heterogeneity and mixed pathology in testicular germ cell tumors. Testicular germ cell tumors show high sensitivity to chemotherapies, but 20-30% of patients show resistance to standard chemotherapy. In the present review, the current knowledge of the epidemiological and genomic factors for the development of testicular germ cell tumors is reviewed, and the mechanisms of resistance to chemotherapies are briefly mentioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Fukawa
- Department of Urology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hiro-Omi Kanayama
- Department of Urology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
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36
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Facchini G, Rossetti S, Cavaliere C, D'Aniello C, Di Franco R, Iovane G, Grimaldi G, Piscitelli R, Muto P, Botti G, Perdonà S, Veneziani BM, Berretta M, Montanari M. Exploring the molecular aspects associated with testicular germ cell tumors: a review. Oncotarget 2017; 9:1365-1379. [PMID: 29416701 PMCID: PMC5787445 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.22373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) represent the most common solid tumors affecting young men. They constitute a distinct entity because of their embryonic origin and their unique biological behavior. Recent preclinical data regarding biological signaling machinery as well as genetic and epigenetic mechanisms associated with molecular patterns of tumors have contribute to explain the pathogenesis and the differentiation of TGCTs and to understand the mechanisms responsible for the development of resistance to treatment. In this review, we discuss the main genetic and epigenetic events associated with TGCTs development in order to better define their role in the pathogenesis of these tumors and in cisplatin-acquired resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Facchini
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per l'Implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,S.S.D Oncologia Clinica Sperimentale Uro-Andrologica, Dipartimento Corp-S Assistenziale dei Percorsi Oncologici Uro-Genitale, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rossetti
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per l'Implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,S.S.D Oncologia Clinica Sperimentale Uro-Andrologica, Dipartimento Corp-S Assistenziale dei Percorsi Oncologici Uro-Genitale, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Carla Cavaliere
- Medical Oncology Unit, ASL NA 3 SUD, Ospedali Riuniti Area Nolana, Nola, Italy
| | - Carmine D'Aniello
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.R.N. dei COLLI "Ospedali Monaldi-Cotugno-CTO", Naples, Italy
| | - Rossella Di Franco
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per l'Implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Radiation Oncology, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione Giovanni Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Gelsomina Iovane
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per l'Implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,S.S.D Oncologia Clinica Sperimentale Uro-Andrologica, Dipartimento Corp-S Assistenziale dei Percorsi Oncologici Uro-Genitale, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Grimaldi
- Division of Urology, Department of Uro-Gynaecological Oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Piscitelli
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per l'Implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy
| | - Paolo Muto
- Radiation Oncology, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione Giovanni Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Gerardo Botti
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy.,Scientific Management, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Sisto Perdonà
- Division of Urology, Department of Uro-Gynaecological Oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Bianca Maria Veneziani
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Berretta
- Department of Medical Oncology, CRO Aviano, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, Italy
| | - Micaela Montanari
- Progetto ONCONET2.0, Linea Progettuale 14 per l'Implementazione della Prevenzione e Diagnosi Precoce del Tumore alla Prostata e Testicolo, Regione Campania, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.,Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, USA
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37
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Napoletano F, Gibert B, Yacobi-Sharon K, Vincent S, Favrot C, Mehlen P, Girard V, Teil M, Chatelain G, Walter L, Arama E, Mollereau B. p53-dependent programmed necrosis controls germ cell homeostasis during spermatogenesis. PLoS Genet 2017; 13:e1007024. [PMID: 28945745 PMCID: PMC5629030 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The importance of regulated necrosis in pathologies such as cerebral stroke and myocardial infarction is now fully recognized. However, the physiological relevance of regulated necrosis remains unclear. Here, we report a conserved role for p53 in regulating necrosis in Drosophila and mammalian spermatogenesis. We found that Drosophila p53 is required for the programmed necrosis that occurs spontaneously in mitotic germ cells during spermatogenesis. This form of necrosis involved an atypical function of the initiator caspase Dronc/Caspase 9, independent of its catalytic activity. Prevention of p53-dependent necrosis resulted in testicular hyperplasia, which was reversed by restoring necrosis in spermatogonia. In mouse testes, p53 was required for heat-induced germ cell necrosis, indicating that regulation of necrosis is a primordial function of p53 conserved from invertebrates to vertebrates. Drosophila and mouse spermatogenesis will thus be useful models to identify inducers of necrosis to treat cancers that are refractory to apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Napoletano
- Laboratory of Biology and Modelling of the Cell, UMR5239 CNRS/Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, INSERM U1210, UMS 3444 Biosciences Lyon Gerland, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Benjamin Gibert
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée ‘La Ligue’, LabEx DEVweCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Keren Yacobi-Sharon
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Stéphane Vincent
- Laboratory of Biology and Modelling of the Cell, UMR5239 CNRS/Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, INSERM U1210, UMS 3444 Biosciences Lyon Gerland, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Clémentine Favrot
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée ‘La Ligue’, LabEx DEVweCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Patrick Mehlen
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée ‘La Ligue’, LabEx DEVweCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Victor Girard
- Laboratory of Biology and Modelling of the Cell, UMR5239 CNRS/Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, INSERM U1210, UMS 3444 Biosciences Lyon Gerland, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Margaux Teil
- Laboratory of Biology and Modelling of the Cell, UMR5239 CNRS/Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, INSERM U1210, UMS 3444 Biosciences Lyon Gerland, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Gilles Chatelain
- Laboratory of Biology and Modelling of the Cell, UMR5239 CNRS/Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, INSERM U1210, UMS 3444 Biosciences Lyon Gerland, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Ludivine Walter
- Laboratory of Biology and Modelling of the Cell, UMR5239 CNRS/Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, INSERM U1210, UMS 3444 Biosciences Lyon Gerland, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Eli Arama
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Bertrand Mollereau
- Laboratory of Biology and Modelling of the Cell, UMR5239 CNRS/Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, INSERM U1210, UMS 3444 Biosciences Lyon Gerland, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
- * E-mail:
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Rudolph C, Melau C, Nielsen JE, Vile Jensen K, Liu D, Pena-Diaz J, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Rasmussen LJ, Jørgensen A. Involvement of the DNA mismatch repair system in cisplatin sensitivity of testicular germ cell tumours. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2017; 40:341-355. [PMID: 28536927 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-017-0326-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCT) are highly sensitive to cisplatin-based chemotherapy, but patients with tumours containing differentiated teratoma components are less responsive to this treatment. The cisplatin sensitivity in TGCT has previously been linked to the embryonic phenotype in the majority of tumours, although the underlying mechanism largely remains to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system in the cisplatin sensitivity of TGCT. METHODS The expression pattern of key MMR proteins, including MSH2, MSH6, MLH1 and PMS2, were investigated during testis development and in the pathogenesis of TGCT, including germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS). The TGCT-derived cell line NTera2 was differentiated using retinoic acid (10 μM, 6 days) after which MMR protein expression and activity, as well as cisplatin sensitivity, were investigated in both undifferentiated and differentiated cells. Finally, the expression of MSH2 was knocked down by siRNA in NTera2 cells after which the effect on cisplatin sensitivity was examined. RESULTS MMR proteins were expressed in proliferating cells in the testes, while in malignant germ cells MMR protein expression was found to coincide with the expression of the pluripotency factor OCT4, with no or low expression in the more differentiated yolk sac tumours, choriocarcinomas and teratomas. In differentiated NTera2 cells we found a significantly (p < 0.05) lower expression of the MMR and pluripotency factors, as well as a reduced MMR activity and cisplatin sensitivity, compared to undifferentiated NTera2 cells. Also, we found that partial knockdown of MSH2 expression in undifferentiated NTera2 cells resulted in a significantly (p < 0.001) reduced cisplatin sensitivity. CONCLUSION This study reports, for the first time, expression of the MMR system in fetal gonocytes, from which GCNIS cells are derived. Our findings in primary TGCT specimens and TGCT-derived cells suggest that a reduced sensitivity to cisplatin in differentiated TGCT components could result from a reduced expression of MMR proteins, in particular MSH2 and MLH1, which are involved in the recognition of cisplatin adducts and in activation of the DNA damage response pathway to initiate apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Rudolph
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction (Rigshospitalet), Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cecilie Melau
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction (Rigshospitalet), Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John E Nielsen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction (Rigshospitalet), Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristina Vile Jensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction (Rigshospitalet), Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dekang Liu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Javier Pena-Diaz
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction (Rigshospitalet), Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lene Juel Rasmussen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction (Rigshospitalet), Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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39
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The genomic landscape of testicular germ cell tumours: from susceptibility to treatment. Nat Rev Urol 2016; 13:409-19. [PMID: 27296647 DOI: 10.1038/nrurol.2016.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The genomic landscape of testicular germ cell tumour (TGCT) can be summarized using four overarching hypotheses. Firstly, TGCT risk is dominated by inherited genetic factors, which determine nearly half of all disease risk and are highly polygenic in nature. Secondly KIT-KITLG signalling is currently the major pathway that is implicated in TGCT formation, both as a predisposition risk factor and a somatic driver event. Results from genome-wide association studies have also consistently suggested that other closely related pathways involved in male germ cell development and sex determination are associated with TGCT risk. Thirdly, the method of disease formation is unique, with tumours universally stemming from a noninvasive precursor lesion, probably of fetal origin, which lies dormant through childhood into adolescence and then eventually begins malignant growth in early adulthood. Formation of a 12p isochromosome, a hallmark of TGCT observed in nearly all tumours, is likely to be a key triggering event for malignant transformation. Finally, TGCT have been shown to have a distinctive somatic mutational profile, with a low rate of point mutations contrasted with frequent large-scale chromosomal gains. These four hypotheses by no means constitute a complete model that explains TGCT tumorigenesis, but advances in genomic technologies have enabled considerable progress in describing and understanding the disease. Further advancing our understanding of the genomic basis of TGCT offers a clear opportunity for clinical benefit in terms of preventing invasive cancer arising in young men, decreasing the burden of chemotherapy-related survivorship issues and reducing mortality in the minority of patients who have treatment-refractory disease.
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40
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Boublikova L, Bakardjieva-Mihaylova V, Skvarova Kramarzova K, Kuzilkova D, Dobiasova A, Fiser K, Stuchly J, Kotrova M, Buchler T, Dusek P, Grega M, Rosova B, Vernerova Z, Klezl P, Pesl M, Zachoval R, Krolupper M, Kubecova M, Stahalova V, Abrahamova J, Babjuk M, Kodet R, Trka J. Wilms tumor gene 1 (WT1), TP53, RAS/BRAF and KIT aberrations in testicular germ cell tumors. Cancer Lett 2016; 376:367-76. [PMID: 27085458 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Wilms tumor gene 1 (WT1), a zinc-finger transcription factor essential for testis development and function, along with other genes, was investigated for their role in the pathogenesis of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT). METHODS In total, 284 TGCT and 100 control samples were investigated, including qPCR for WT1 expression and BRAF mutation, p53 immunohistochemistry detection, and massively parallel amplicon sequencing. RESULTS WT1 was significantly (p < 0.0001) under-expressed in TGCT, with an increased ratio of exon 5-lacking isoforms, reaching low levels in chemo-naïve relapsed TGCT patients vs. high levels in chemotherapy-pretreated relapsed patients. BRAF V600E mutation was identified in 1% of patients only. p53 protein was lowly expressed in TGCT metastases compared to the matched primary tumors. Of 9 selected TGCT-linked genes, RAS/BRAF and WT1 mutations were frequent while significant TP53 and KIT variants were not detected (p = 0.0003). CONCLUSIONS WT1 has been identified as a novel factor involved in TGCT pathogenesis, with a potential prognostic impact. Distinct biologic nature of the two types of relapses occurring in TGCT has been demonstrated. Differential mutation rate of the key TGCT-related genes has been documented.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Boublikova
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - V Bakardjieva-Mihaylova
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - K Skvarova Kramarzova
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - D Kuzilkova
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - A Dobiasova
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - K Fiser
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - J Stuchly
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - M Kotrova
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - T Buchler
- Department of Oncology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Thomayer Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - P Dusek
- Department of Urology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - M Grega
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - B Rosova
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Thomayer Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Z Vernerova
- Department of Pathology, 3rd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - P Klezl
- Department of Urology, 3rd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - M Pesl
- Department of Urology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - R Zachoval
- Department of Urology, Thomayer Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - M Krolupper
- Department of Urology, Na Bulovce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - M Kubecova
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, 3rd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - V Stahalova
- Institute of Radiotherapy and Oncology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Na Bulovce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - J Abrahamova
- Department of Oncology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Thomayer Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - M Babjuk
- Department of Urology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - R Kodet
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - J Trka
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
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Abstract
Our understanding of cancer biology has been radically transformed over recent years with a more realistic grasp of its multilayered cellular and genetic complexity. These advances are being translated into more selective and effective treatment of cancers and, although there are still considerable challenges, particularly with drug resistance and metastatic disease, many patients with otherwise lethal malignancies now enjoy protracted remissions or cure. One largely unheralded theme of this story is the extent to which new biological insights and novel clinical applications have their origins with leukaemia and related blood cell cancers, including lymphoma. In this Timeline article, I review the remarkable and ground-breaking role that studies in leukaemia have had at the forefront of this progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mel Greaves
- Centre for Evolution and Cancer, The Institute of Cancer Research, Brookes Lawley Building, 15 Cotswold Road, Sutton SM2 5NG, UK
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42
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Molecular biology of testicular germ cell tumors. Clin Transl Oncol 2015; 18:550-6. [PMID: 26482724 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-015-1423-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most common solid tumors in young adult men. They constitute a unique pathology because of their embryonic and germ origin and their special behavior. Genetic predisposition, environmental factors involved in their development and genetic aberrations have been under study in many works throughout the last years trying to explain the susceptibility and the transformation mechanism of TGCTs. Despite the high rate of cure in this type of tumors because its particular sensitivity to cisplatin, there are tumors resistant to chemotherapy for which it is needed to find new therapies. In the present work, it has been carried out a literature review on the most important molecular aspects involved in the onset and development of such tumors, as well as a review of the major developments regarding prognostic factors, new prognostic biomarkers and the possibility of new targeted therapies.
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GAN YU, YANG JIANFU, WANG YONG, TAN ZHENGYU, JIANG XIANZHEN, TANG YUXIN. In vitro study on shRNA-mediated reduction of testis developmental related gene 1 expression and its effects on the proliferation, invasion and apoptosis of NTERA-2 cells. Oncol Lett 2015; 10:61-66. [PMID: 26170977 PMCID: PMC4486812 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2015.3219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Testis developmental related gene 1 (TDRG1) is a novel human testis-specific gene. TDRG1 is differentially expressed in cancerous tissue compared with normal testicular tissue and demonstrates a unique expression pattern in normal testes; therefore, this gene may be involved in the occurrence and development of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT). In the present study, the expression level of TDRG1 was downregulated in human TGCT NTERA-2 cells by RNA interference (RNAi) in order to investigate the association between TDRG1 and TGCT. The TDRG1 mRNA and protein expression levels in NTERA-2 cells were significantly inhibited following transfection with specific RNAi plasmids. The ability to proliferate (inhibited by 15.4% at day 3 and 26.1% at day 5; P<0.001) and invade (reduced by 49.1%; P=0.01) in vitro was suppressed in cells in which the expression level of TDRG1 was reduced, and a corresponding increase in the apoptotic potential was observed (the early apoptotic potential and total apoptotic potential were increased by 75%; P=0.019 and 54.8%; P=0.009, respectively). The results of the present study indicated that the biological behavior of NTERA-2 cells is associated with TDRG1 expression levels, and that this gene may be a novel target candidate in the treatment of TGCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- YU GAN
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - JIANFU YANG
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - YONG WANG
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - ZHENGYU TAN
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - XIANZHEN JIANG
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - YUXIN TANG
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
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Jacobsen C, Honecker F. Cisplatin resistance in germ cell tumours: models and mechanisms. Andrology 2014; 3:111-21. [PMID: 25546083 DOI: 10.1111/andr.299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have led to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying cisplatin response and resistance in germ cell tumours (GCT), and several promising targets have been identified. Two main mechanisms of the responsiveness to DNA damaging agents have been postulated. Firstly, GCT readily activate a DNA damage response, but show deficits in several damage repair pathways. In particular, they have been found to have defects in interstrand crosslink repair and in homologous recombination (HR). Secondly, GCT, especially embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells, show a hypersensitive apoptotic response to DNA damage, which activates p53, and leads to up-regulation of the pro-apoptotic factors Noxa, Puma and Fas in non-resistant EC. These cells fail to activate p21 which induces a G1/S arrest, but accumulate in G2/M phase. In the absence of functional p53, family members like p73 and GTAp63 might be important in initiating this response. Mechanisms involved in cisplatin resistance are as follows: down-regulation of Oct4 (e.g. as a result of hypoxia, treatment with retinoic acid or exposure to cisplatin) and failure to induce Puma and Noxa; changes in the expression levels of micro-RNAs such as miR-17/-106b, miR-302a, or miR-371 to -373; elevated levels of MDM2 and cytoplasmic translocation of p21 by phosphorylation; and activation of the PDGFRβ/PI3K/pAKT pathway. Several approaches to overcome resistance have been successfully examined in vitro and in vivo, including PARP inhibitors, especially in cells showing deficient HR-repair; stabilization of p53 using nutlin-3; inhibition of several components of the PI3K/pAKT pathway using small molecules; and DNA demethylation by 5-azacytidine or 5-aza-deoxy-cytidine, among others. Many of these substances deserve further exploration, alone or in combination with DNA damaging agents, and the most promising approaches should be taken forward to clinical testing. Targeted therapy based on mechanistic insights holds the promise to turn cisplatin-resistant GCT into a curable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Jacobsen
- Department of Oncology, Haematology, Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pulmology, Hubertus Wald Tumor Center, Hamburg University Medical Center, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Selle F, Gligorov J, Richard S, Khalil A, Alexandre I, Avenin D, Provent S, Soares DG, Lotz JP. Intensive chemotherapy as salvage treatment for solid tumors: focus on germ cell cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 48:13-24. [PMID: 25493378 PMCID: PMC4288488 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20144214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Germ cell tumors present contrasting biological and molecular features compared to many solid tumors, which may partially explain their unusual sensitivity to chemotherapy. Reduced DNA repair capacity and enhanced induction of apoptosis appear to be key factors in the sensitivity of germ cell tumors to cisplatin. Despite substantial cure rates, some patients relapse and subsequently die of their disease. Intensive doses of chemotherapy are used to counter mechanisms of drug resistance. So far, high-dose chemotherapy with hematopoietic stem cell support for solid tumors is used only in the setting of testicular germ cell tumors. In that indication, high-dose chemotherapy is given as the first or late salvage treatment for patients with either relapsed or progressive tumors after initial conventional salvage chemotherapy. High-dose chemotherapy is usually given as two or three sequential cycles using carboplatin and etoposide with or without ifosfamide. The administration of intensive therapy carries significant side effects and can only be efficiently and safely conducted in specialized referral centers to assure optimum patient care outcomes. In breast and ovarian cancer, most studies have demonstrated improvement in progression-free survival (PFS), but overall survival remained unchanged. Therefore, most of these approaches have been dropped. In germ cell tumors, clinical trials are currently investigating novel therapeutic combinations and active treatments. In particular, the integration of targeted therapies constitutes an important area of research for patients with a poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Selle
- Medical Oncology and Cellular Therapy Department, Hospital Tenon, Public Assistance Hospitals of Paris, Alliance for Cancer Research (APREC), Paris, France
| | - J Gligorov
- Medical Oncology and Cellular Therapy Department, Hospital Tenon, Public Assistance Hospitals of Paris, Alliance for Cancer Research (APREC), Paris, France
| | - S Richard
- Medical Oncology and Cellular Therapy Department, Hospital Tenon, Public Assistance Hospitals of Paris, Alliance for Cancer Research (APREC), Paris, France
| | - A Khalil
- Medical Oncology and Cellular Therapy Department, Hospital Tenon, Public Assistance Hospitals of Paris, Alliance for Cancer Research (APREC), Paris, France
| | - I Alexandre
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Centre of Bligny, Briis-sous-Forges, France
| | - D Avenin
- Medical Oncology and Cellular Therapy Department, Hospital Tenon, Public Assistance Hospitals of Paris, Alliance for Cancer Research (APREC), Paris, France
| | - S Provent
- Medical Oncology and Cellular Therapy Department, Hospital Tenon, Public Assistance Hospitals of Paris, Alliance for Cancer Research (APREC), Paris, France
| | - D G Soares
- Medical Oncology and Cellular Therapy Department, Hospital Tenon, Public Assistance Hospitals of Paris, Alliance for Cancer Research (APREC), Paris, France
| | - J P Lotz
- Medical Oncology and Cellular Therapy Department, Hospital Tenon, Public Assistance Hospitals of Paris, Alliance for Cancer Research (APREC), Paris, France
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Rijlaarsdam MA, Looijenga LHJ. An oncofetal and developmental perspective on testicular germ cell cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2014; 29:59-74. [PMID: 25066859 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2014.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Germ cell tumors (GCTs) represent a diverse group of tumors presumably originating from (early fetal) developing germ cells. Most frequent are the testicular germ cell cancers (TGCC). Overall, TGCC is the most frequent malignancy in Caucasian males (20-40 years) and remains an important cause of (treatment related) mortality in these young men. The strong association between the phenotype of TGCC stem cell components and their totipotent ancestor (fetal primordial germ cell or gonocyte) makes these tumors highly relevant from an onco-fetal point of view. This review subsequently discusses the evidence for the early embryonic origin of TGCCs, followed by an overview of the crucial association between TGCC pathogenesis, genetics, environmental exposure and the (fetal) testicular micro-environment (genvironment). This culminates in an evaluation of three genvironmentally modulated hallmarks of TGCC directly related to the oncofetal pathogenesis of TGCC: (1) maintenance of pluripotency, (2) cell cycle control/cisplatin sensitivity and (3) regulation of proliferation/migration/apoptosis by KIT-KITL mediated receptor tyrosine kinase signaling. Briefly, TGCC exhibit identifiable stem cell components (seminoma and embryonal carcinoma) and progenitors that show large and consistent similarities to primordial/embryonic germ cells, their presumed totipotent cells of origin. TGCC pathogenesis depends crucially on a complex interaction of genetic and (micro-)environmental, i.e. genvironmental risk factors that have only been partly elucidated despite significant effort. TGCC stem cell components also show a high degree of similarity with embryonic stem/germ cells (ES) in the regulation of pluripotency and cell cycle control, directly related to their exquisite sensitivity to DNA damaging agents (e.g. cisplatin). Of note, (ES specific) micro-RNAs play a pivotal role in the crossover between cell cycle control, pluripotency and chemosensitivity. Moreover, multiple consistent observations reported TGCC to be associated with KIT-KITL mediated receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, a pathway crucially implicated in proliferation, migration and survival during embryogenesis including germ cell development. In conclusion, TGCCs are a fascinating model for onco-fetal developmental processes especially with regard to studying cell cycle control, pluripotency maintenance and KIT-KITL signaling. The knowledge presented here contributes to better understanding of the molecular characteristics of TGCC pathogenesis, translating to identification of at risk individuals and enhanced quality of care for TGCC patients (diagnosis, treatment and follow-up).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin A Rijlaarsdam
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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RITA can induce cell death in p53-defective cells independently of p53 function via activation of JNK/SAPK and p38. Cell Death Dis 2014; 5:e1318. [PMID: 25010984 PMCID: PMC4123078 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2014.284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Revised: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Significant advances have been made in the development of small molecules blocking the p53/MDM2 interaction. The Mdm2 inhibitor Nutlin-3 is restricted to tumors carrying wtp53. In contrast, RITA, a compound that binds p53, has recently been shown also to restore transcriptional functions of mtp53. As more than 50% of solid tumors carry p53 mutations, RITA promises to be a more effective therapeutic strategy than Nutlin-3. We investigated effects of RITA on apoptosis, cell cycle and induction of 45 p53 target genes in a panel of 14 cell lines from different tumor entities with different p53 status as well as primary lymphocytes and fibroblasts. Nine cell strains expressed wtp53, four harbored mtp53, and three were characterized by the loss of p53 protein. A significant induction of cell death upon RITA was observed in 7 of 16 cell lines. The nonmalignant cells in our panel were substantially less sensitive. We found that in contrast to Nultin-3, RITA is capable to induce cell death not only in tumor cells harboring wtp53 and mtp53 but also in p53-null cells. Importantly, whereas p53 has a central role for RITA-mediated effects in wtp53 cells, neither p53 nor p63 or p73 were essential for the RITA response in mtp53 or p53-null cells in our panel demonstrating that besides the known p53-dependent action of RITA in wtp53 cells, RITA can induce cell death also independently of p53 in cells harboring defective p53. We identified an important role of both p38 and JNK/SAPK for sensitivity to RITA in these cells leading to a typical caspase- and BAX/BAK-dependent mitochondrial apoptosis. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that RITA can induce apoptosis through p38 and JNK/SAPK not only in tumor cells harboring wtp53 and mtp53 but also in p53-null cells, making RITA an interesting tumor-selective drug.
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48
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Khoo KH, Hoe KK, Verma CS, Lane DP. Drugging the p53 pathway: understanding the route to clinical efficacy. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2014; 13:217-36. [PMID: 24577402 DOI: 10.1038/nrd4236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 555] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The tumour suppressor p53 is the most frequently mutated gene in human cancer, with more than half of all human tumours carrying mutations in this particular gene. Intense efforts to develop drugs that could activate or restore the p53 pathway have now reached clinical trials. The first clinical results with inhibitors of MDM2, a negative regulator of p53, have shown efficacy but hint at on-target toxicities. Here, we describe the current state of the development of p53 pathway modulators and new pathway targets that have emerged. The challenge of targeting protein-protein interactions and a fragile mutant transcription factor has stimulated many exciting new approaches to drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Khoo Kian Hoe
- p53 Laboratory (p53Lab), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, #06-06, Immunos, 138648 Singapore
| | - Chandra S Verma
- 1] Bioinformatics Institute, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 30 Biopolis Street #07-01, Matrix, 138671 Singapore. [2] School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551 Singapore. [3] Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543 Singapore
| | - David P Lane
- p53 Laboratory (p53Lab), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, #06-06, Immunos, 138648 Singapore
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49
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The chemosensitivity of testicular germ cell tumors. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2014; 37:79-94. [PMID: 24692098 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-014-0168-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although rare cancers overall, testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most common type of cancer in young males below 40 years of age. Both subtypes of TGCTs, i.e., seminomas and non-seminomas, are highly curable and the majority of even metastatic patients may expect to be cured. These high cure rates are not due to the indolent nature of these cancers, but rather to their sensitivity to chemotherapy (and for seminomas to radiotherapy). The delineation of the cause of chemosensitivity at the molecular level is of paramount importance, because it may provide insights into the minority of TGCTs that are chemo-resistant and, thereby, provide opportunities for specific therapeutic interventions aimed at reverting them to chemosensitivity. In addition, delineation of the molecular basis of TGCT chemo-sensitivity may be informative for the cause of chemo-resistance of other more common types of cancer and, thus, may create new therapeutic leads. p53, a frequently mutated tumor suppressor in cancers in general, is not mutated in TGCTs, a fact that has implications for their chemo-sensitivity. Oct4, an embryonic transcription factor, is uniformly expressed in the seminoma and embryonic carcinoma components of non-seminomas, and its interplay with p53 may be important in the chemotherapy response of these tumors. This interplay, together with other features of TGCTs such as the gain of genetic material from the short arm of chromosome 12 and the association with disorders of testicular development, will be discussed in this paper and integrated in a unifying hypothesis that may explain their chemo-sensitivity.
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50
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Liu L, Lian J, Zhang H, Tian H, Liang M, Yin M, Sun F. MicroRNA-302a sensitizes testicular embryonal carcinoma cells to cisplatin-induced cell death. J Cell Physiol 2014; 228:2294-304. [PMID: 23625774 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cisplatin is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of several human malignancies, such as testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT). The toxic effects persist and those that are present long after chemotherapy affect the overall quality of life of patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the responses of cancer cells to chemotherapy and have been shown to modulate cell sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs. However, the relationship between miRNA expression and cisplatin sensitivity of TGCT has not been fully explored. In this study, the effects of miR-302a on cisplatin cytotoxicity in TGCT-derived cell line NTERA-2 (NT2) were evaluated. We found that expression levels of miR-302a were increased in cisplatin-treated NT2 cells. Up-regulation of miR-302a significantly increased the sensitivity of NT2 cells to cisplatin by enhancing cisplatin-induced G2/M phase arrest and the subsequent progression to apoptosis. MiR-302a also increased the killing effects of cisplatin by lowering the apoptotic threshold; the same result was also observed in another TGCT-derived cell line, NCCIT. Furthermore, miR-302a-enhanced cisplatin sensitivity was partially mediated through the down-regulation of p21 in NT2 cells. MiR-302a induced apoptosis was further enhanced by silencing of p53 in NT2 cells. p53 levels were inversely associated with the expression of Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog in response to cisplatin. Thus, targeting miR-302a may offer new therapeutic interventions in TGCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, P.R. China
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