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D'Aniello A, Del Bene A, Mottola S, Mazzarella V, Cutolo R, Campagna E, Di Maro S, Messere A. The bright side of chemistry: Exploring synthetic peptide-based anticancer vaccines. J Pept Sci 2024; 30:e3596. [PMID: 38571326 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3596] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The present review focuses on synthetic peptide-based vaccine strategies in the context of anticancer intervention, paying attention to critical aspects such as peptide epitope selection, adjuvant integration, and nuanced classification of synthetic peptide cancer vaccines. Within this discussion, we delve into the diverse array of synthetic peptide-based anticancer vaccines, each derived from tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), including melanoma antigen recognized by T cells 1 (Melan-A or MART-1), mucin 1 (MUC1), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2), tumor protein 53 (p53), human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), survivin, folate receptor (FR), cancer-testis antigen 1 (NY-ESO-1), and prostate-specific antigen (PSA). We also describe the synthetic peptide-based vaccines developed for cancers triggered by oncovirus, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Additionally, the potential synergy of peptide-based vaccines with common therapeutics in cancer was considered. The last part of our discussion deals with the realm of the peptide-based vaccines delivery, highlighting its role in translating the most promising candidates into effective clinical strategies. Although this discussion does not cover all the ongoing peptide vaccine investigations, it aims at offering valuable insights into the chemical modifications and the structural complexities of anticancer peptide-based vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia D'Aniello
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Del Bene
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mazzarella
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Roberto Cutolo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Erica Campagna
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
- Interuniversity Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPEB), Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Messere
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
- Interuniversity Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPEB), Naples, Italy
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2
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Boidin L, Moinard M, Moussaron A, Merlier M, Moralès O, Grolez GP, Baydoun M, Mohd-Gazzali A, Tazizi MHDM, Allah HHA, Kerbage Y, Arnoux P, Acherar S, Frochot C, Delhem N. Targeted Photodynamic Therapy using a Vectorized Photosensitizer coupled to Folic Acid Analog induces Ovarian Tumor Cell Death and inhibits IL-6-mediated Inflammation. J Control Release 2024; 371:351-370. [PMID: 38789088 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.05.033] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most lethal cancers among women. Frequent recurrence in the peritoneum due to the presence of microscopic tumor residues justifies the development of new therapies. Indeed, our main objective is to develop a targeted photodynamic therapy (PDT) treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis from OC to improve the life expectancy of cancer patients. Herein, we propose a targeted-PDT using a vectorized photosensitizer (PS) coupled with a newly folic acid analog (FAA), named PSFAA, in order to target folate receptor alpha (FRα) overexpressed on peritoneal metastasis. This PSFAA was the result of the coupling of pyropheophorbide-a (Pyro-a), as the PS, to a newly synthesized FAA via a polyethylene glycol (PEG) spacer. The selectivity and the PDT efficacy of PSFAA was evaluated on two human OC cell lines overexpressing FRα compared to fibrosarcoma cells underexpressing FRα. Final PSFAA, including the synthesis of a newly FAA and its conjugation to Pyro-a, was obtained after 10 synthesis steps, with an overall yield of 19%. Photophysical properties of PSFAA in EtOH were performed and showed similarity with those of free Pyro-a, such as the fluorescence and singlet oxygen quantum yields (Φf = 0.39 and ΦΔ = 0.53 for free Pyro-a, and Φf = 0.26 and ΦΔ = 0.41 for PSFAA). Any toxicity of PSFAA was noticed. After light illumination, a dose-dependent effect on PS concentration and light dose was shown. Furthermore, a PDT efficacy of PSFAA on OC cell secretome was detected inducing a decrease of a pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (IL-6). This new PSFAA has shown promising biological properties highlighting the selectivity of the therapy opening new perspectives in the treatment of a cancer in a therapeutic impasse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léa Boidin
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189-ONCOTHAI-Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Morgane Moinard
- Univ. Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7274 - LRGP- Laboratoire des Réactions et Génie des Procédés, Nancy F-54000, France
| | - Albert Moussaron
- Univ. Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7274 - LRGP- Laboratoire des Réactions et Génie des Procédés, Nancy F-54000, France; Univ. Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7375 - LCPM - Laboratoire de Chimie-Physique Macromoléculaire, Nancy F-54000, France
| | - Margaux Merlier
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189-ONCOTHAI-Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Olivier Moralès
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189-ONCOTHAI-Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille F-59000, France; Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER - Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Guillaume Paul Grolez
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189-ONCOTHAI-Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Martha Baydoun
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189-ONCOTHAI-Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Amirah Mohd-Gazzali
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | | | - Hassan Hadi Abd Allah
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Yohan Kerbage
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189-ONCOTHAI-Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Philippe Arnoux
- Univ. Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7274 - LRGP- Laboratoire des Réactions et Génie des Procédés, Nancy F-54000, France
| | - Samir Acherar
- Univ. Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7375 - LCPM - Laboratoire de Chimie-Physique Macromoléculaire, Nancy F-54000, France.
| | - Céline Frochot
- Univ. Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7274 - LRGP- Laboratoire des Réactions et Génie des Procédés, Nancy F-54000, France.
| | - Nadira Delhem
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1189-ONCOTHAI-Assisted Laser Therapy and Immunotherapy for Oncology, Lille F-59000, France.
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Yazaki S, Chiba Y, Kojima Y, Yoshida H, Takamizawa S, Kitadai R, Saito A, Kita S, Yamamoto K, Sumiyoshi-Okuma H, Nishikawa T, Sudo K, Shimoi T, Noguchi E, Uno M, Ishikawa M, Kato T, Fujiwara Y, Yonemori K. Folate Receptor Alpha Expression and the Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Patients with Cervical Cancer. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2024:00004347-990000000-00174. [PMID: 38914017 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000001051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Folate receptor α (FRα) is a cell-surface protein and an attractive target for cancer treatment. We investigated the association between FRα expression and the tumor immune microenvironment in patients with cervical cancer. We examined whole tumor sections of 123 patients with cervical cancer: 67 and 56 sections of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and non-SCC, respectively. FRα expression was assessed using immunohistochemical staining with the anti-FRα monoclonal antibody clone 26B3. Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression was assessed using a combined positive score (CPS). The intratumoral CD3 and CD8 cell densities were calculated as the average number of positive cells in five independent areas. FRα-positivity was identified in 72.4% of the patients, and it differed by histology (SCC vs. non-SCC; 55.2% vs. 92.9%, P<0.001). PD-L1 status was positive (CPS ≥1) in 75.6% and was more commonly expressed in patients with SCC (SCC vs. non-SCC; 83.5% vs. 66.1%, P=0.02). FRα expression had a weak correlation with PD-L1 expression (r=-0.22, P<0.001) and CD8-positive cells (r=-0.19, P=0.03). FRα-positivity was more frequently observed in the PD-L1 CPS <10 group than in the PD-L1 CPS ≥10 group (81% vs. 64%, P=0.03). FRα-high was significantly associated with poor prognosis, especially in the PD-L1 CPS ≥10 groups (hazard ratio: 4.10, 95% confidence interval: 1.39-12.06, P=0.01). In conclusion, FRα expression was higher in patients with cervical cancer and PD-L1 CPS <10 than in those with CPS ≥10. Targeting FRα expression may be a potential therapeutic strategy for cervical cancer patients with low or negative PD-L1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Yazaki
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yohei Chiba
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Kojima
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yoshida
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Rui Kitadai
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Saito
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shousuke Kita
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kasumi Yamamoto
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Tadaaki Nishikawa
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sudo
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsunori Shimoi
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emi Noguchi
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaya Uno
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuya Ishikawa
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Kato
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Fujiwara
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kan Yonemori
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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Lawson BC, Marques-Piubelli ML, Westin SN, Malpica A. Folate Receptor Immunohistochemical Staining and Gynecologic Tumors: Initial Experience With 216 Cases. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2024:00004347-990000000-00173. [PMID: 38914019 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000001053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Folate receptor alpha has been shown to have possible mechanisms of tumorigenesis in malignancies, becoming a potential target for therapy. Mirvetuximab soravtansine is an antifolate receptor alpha monoclonal antibody, with an approved FOLR1-2.1 immunohistochemical biomarker. After IRB approval, a retrospective review of gynecologic pathology cases was performed to identify cases in which FOLR1 immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed at our institution over a period of 9 months as part of clinical care for therapy eligibility. Clinical data collected included patients' age, tumor histotype, tumor grade, primary tumor site, FIGO stage, dates of recurrence/progression, and use of mirvetuximab therapy. FOLR1 IHC data were recorded, including the date specimen obtained, date IHC was performed, site tested, case type, percentage tumor staining, and intensity. Cases were deemed positive or negative according to current recommendations (75%, 2-3+intensity). Two hundred sixteen cases were identified. Patient ages ranged from 25 to 83 years old (median: 59 yr). Staining intensity was reported as 0 in 15 (6.9%) cases, weak (1+) in 8 (3.7%), moderate (2+) in 27 (12.5%), strong (3+) in 27 (12.5%), weak-to-moderate (1-2+) in 15 (6.9%), and moderate-to-strong (2-3+) in 99 (45.8%); intensity was not provided in 25 (11.6%). Percentage of tumor staining ranged from 0 to 100, with a median of 60. The IHC was overall deemed positive in 98 (45.4%) cases and negative in 118 (54.6%). By histotype, 5 of 17 (29.4%) low-grade serous carcinomas, 88 of 162 (54.3%) high-grade serous carcinomas, 3 of 5 (60%) of carcinosarcomas, and 2 of 6 (33.3%) of mixed carcinomas were positive. No case of clear cell CA, endometrioid CA, Mullerian CA NOS, serous borderline, mucinous CA, or granulosa cell tumor was positive. The primary site of disease was tubo-ovarian in 192 (88.9%) cases, peritoneal in 8 (3.7%) cases, uterine in 3 (1.4%) cases, and unknown in 13 (6%) cases. By site on which immunohistochemical stain was performed: primary site positive in 53 of 96 (55.2%) cases, metastatic site at time of diagnosis/debulking positive in 23 of 41 (52.1%) cases, and metastatic/recurrent cases positive in 22 of 79 (27.8%) cases. There was a statistically significant correlation when comparing the positivity rates between these sites (P = 0.0004). Survival data were examined with high-grade serous carcinoma, with no statistically significant difference between positive and negative cases in overall survival (P = 0.622) or progression-free survival (P = 0.711). Biopsy specimens were positive in 17 (25%) cases, while negative in 51 (75%), whereas resection specimens were positive in 81 (54.7%) and negative in 67 (45.3%), a statistically significant difference (P < 0.0001). Cases that were <19 months old had 38 (36.2%) positive and 67 (63.8%) negative, compared with cases ≥19 months old that had 60 (54.1%) positive and 51 (45.9%) negative, a statistically significant difference (P = 0.0084). Significant differences in FOLR1 staining were noted between histotypes, age of the specimen, type of case tested, and site of disease tested. Further testing is needed to help determine the best tissue to be utilized for this new biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barrett C Lawson
- Departments of Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, Texas
| | - Mario L Marques-Piubelli
- Departments of Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, Texas
| | - Shannon N Westin
- Departments of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, Texas
| | - Anais Malpica
- Departments of Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, Texas
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5
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Cutri-French C, Nasioudis D, George E, Tanyi JL. CAR-T Cell Therapy in Ovarian Cancer: Where Are We Now? Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:819. [PMID: 38667465 PMCID: PMC11049291 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14080819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The success of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies in the treatment of hematologic malignancies has led to the investigation of their potential in the treatment of solid tumors, including ovarian cancer. While the immunosuppressive microenvironment of ovarian cancer has been a barrier in their implementation, several early phase clinical trials are currently evaluating CAR-T cell therapies targeting mesothelin, folate receptor a, HER2, MUC16, and B7H3. Ongoing challenges include cytokine-associated and "on-target, off-tumor" toxicities, while most common adverse events include cytokine release syndrome, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis/macrophage activation-like syndrome (HLH/MAS), and neurotoxicity. In the present review, we summarize the current status of CAR-T therapy in ovarian cancer and discuss future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Cutri-French
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Dimitrios Nasioudis
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Erin George
- Moffitt Cancer Center, Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Outpatient Center at McKinley Campus, 10920 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Janos L. Tanyi
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Farook MR, Croxford Z, Morgan S, Horlock AD, Holt AK, Rees A, Jenkins BJ, Tse C, Stanton E, Davies DM, Thornton CA, Jones N, Sheldon IM, Vincent EE, Cronin JG. Loss of mitochondrial pyruvate carrier 1 supports proline-dependent proliferation and collagen biosynthesis in ovarian cancer. Mol Metab 2024; 81:101900. [PMID: 38354856 PMCID: PMC10885617 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2024.101900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The pyruvate transporter MPC1 (mitochondrial pyruvate carrier 1) acts as a tumour-suppressor, loss of which correlates with a pro-tumorigenic phenotype and poor survival in several tumour types. In high-grade serous ovarian cancers (HGSOC), patients display copy number loss of MPC1 in around 78% of cases and reduced MPC1 mRNA expression. To explore the metabolic effect of reduced expression, we demonstrate that depleting MPC1 in HGSOC cell lines drives expression of key proline biosynthetic genes; PYCR1, PYCR2 and PYCR3, and biosynthesis of proline. We show that altered proline metabolism underpins cancer cell proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and type I and type VI collagen formation in ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, exploring The Cancer Genome Atlas, we discovered the PYCR3 isozyme to be highly expressed in a third of HGSOC patients, which was associated with more aggressive disease and diagnosis at a younger age. Taken together, our study highlights that targeting proline metabolism is a potential therapeutic avenue for the treatment of HGSOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rufaik Farook
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Zack Croxford
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Steffan Morgan
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony D Horlock
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Amy K Holt
- School of Translational Health Sciences, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS1 3NY, UK
| | - April Rees
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin J Jenkins
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Carmen Tse
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Stanton
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - D Mark Davies
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom; Department of Oncology, South-West Wales Cancer Centre, Singleton Hospital, Swansea SA2 8QA, UK
| | - Catherine A Thornton
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Jones
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - I Martin Sheldon
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Emma E Vincent
- School of Translational Health Sciences, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS1 3NY, UK
| | - James G Cronin
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom.
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Qu Y, Zhang X, Qiao R, Di F, Song Y, Wang J, Ji L, Zhang J, Gu W, Fang Y, Han B, Yang R, Dai L, Ouyang S. Blood FOLR3 methylation dysregulations and heterogeneity in non-small lung cancer highlight its strong associations with lung squamous carcinoma. Respir Res 2024; 25:59. [PMID: 38273401 PMCID: PMC10809478 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-024-02691-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for the vast majority of lung cancers. Early detection is crucial to reduce lung cancer-related mortality. Aberrant DNA methylation occurs early during carcinogenesis and can be detected in blood. It is essential to investigate the dysregulated blood methylation markers for early diagnosis of NSCLC. METHODS NSCLC-associated methylation gene folate receptor gamma (FOLR3) was selected from an Illumina 850K array analysis of peripheral blood samples. Mass spectrometry was used for validation in two independent case-control studies (validation I: n = 2548; validation II: n = 3866). Patients with lung squamous carcinoma (LUSC) or lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), normal controls (NCs) and benign pulmonary nodule (BPN) cases were included. FOLR3 methylations were compared among different populations. Their associations with NSCLC clinical features were investigated. Receiver operating characteristic analyses, Kruskal-Wallis test, Wilcoxon test, logistics regression analysis and nomogram analysis were performed. RESULTS Two CpG sites (CpG_1 and CpG_2) of FOLR3 was significantly lower methylated in NSCLC patients than NCs in the discovery round. In the two validations, both LUSC and LUAD patients presented significant FOLR3 hypomethylations. LUSC patients were highlighted to have significantly lower methylation levels of CpG_1 and CpG_2 than BPN cases and LUAD patients. Both in the two validations, CpG_1 methylation and CpG_2 methylation could discriminate LUSC from NCs well, with areas under the curve (AUCs) of 0.818 and 0.832 in validation I, and 0.789 and 0.780 in validation II. They could also differentiate LUAD from NCs, but with lower efficiency. CpG_1 and CpG_2 methylations could also discriminate LUSC from BPNs well individually in the two validations. With the combined dataset of two validations, the independent associations of age, gender, and FOLR3 methylation with LUSC and LUAD risk were shown and the age-gender-CpG_1 signature could discriminate LUSC and LUAD from NCs and BPNs, with higher efficiency for LUSC. CONCLUSIONS Blood-based FOLR3 hypomethylation was shown in LUSC and LUAD. FOLR3 methylation heterogeneity between LUSC and LUAD highlighted its stronger associations with LUSC. FOLR3 methylation and the age-gender-CpG_1 signature might be novel diagnostic markers for the early detection of NSCLC, especially for LUSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhui Qu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University and the Key Clinical Laboratory of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xiuzhi Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 4500001, China
| | - Rong Qiao
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Feifei Di
- Nanjing TANTICA Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Yakang Song
- Nanjing TANTICA Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Nanjing TANTICA Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Longtao Ji
- Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Henan Key Medical Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biomarkers, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Wanjian Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Yifei Fang
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Baohui Han
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Rongxi Yang
- Nanjing TANTICA Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Nanjing, 210000, China.
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China.
| | - Liping Dai
- Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Henan Key Medical Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biomarkers, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Songyun Ouyang
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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8
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Cao B, Liu L, Zhang R, Dong H, Shen J. Sensitivity and specificity of folate receptor α-positive circulating tumour cells in gastric cancer. Postgrad Med J 2024; 100:112-119. [PMID: 37973392 DOI: 10.1093/postmj/qgad111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to investigate whether folate receptor α (FRα)-positive circulating tumour cells (CTCs) could be used as a noninvasive liquid biopsy approach in gastric cancer (GC). METHODS Tissue microarray and bioinformatic analyses were used to evaluate FRα expression in GC. Patients with FRα-positive CTC examinations at our institute between July 2021 and May 2022 were retrospectively evaluated. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of FRα-positive CTCs in GC. RESULTS FRα was highly expressed and associated with poor prognosis in GC based on public database. Data for 163 patients (20 with benign disease and 143 with GC) were retrospectively collected. FRα-positive CTC levels were significantly higher in the GC group than in the benign disease group (12.15 ± 1.47 FU/3 ml vs. 10.47 ± 1.63 FU/3 ml, P < 0.01). FRα-positive CTC levels were also elevated in GC patients with vessel/neuron invasion or extra-nodal tumour deposits (12.31 ± 1.47 FU/3 ml vs. 11.77 ± 1.38 FU/3 ml, P = 0.037). Areas under the curve of FRα-positive CTC levels for GC and early GC were 0.774 (P < 0.001) and 0.736 (P = 0.005). With a cut-off value of 10.95 FU/3 ml, the Youden indexes for GC and early GC were 0.502 (sensitivity = 85.2% and specificity = 65.0%) and 0.450 (sensitivity = 80.0% and specificity = 65.0%), respectively. CONCLUSION FRα-positive CTC detection by noninvasive liquid biopsy is a useful and effective approach for screening of patients with GC. KEY MESSAGES
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Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Cao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
- Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Hongliang Dong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
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9
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Gonzalez T, Muminovic M, Nano O, Vulfovich M. Folate Receptor Alpha-A Novel Approach to Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1046. [PMID: 38256120 PMCID: PMC11154542 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021046] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Folate receptor α (FR) was discovered many decades ago, along with drugs that target intracellular folate metabolism, such as pemetrexed and methotrexate. Folate is taken up by the cell via this receptor, which also targeted by many cancer agents due to the over-expression of the receptor by cancer cells. FR is a membrane-bound glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor glycoprotein encoded by the folate receptor 1 (FOLR1) gene. FR plays a significant role in DNA synthesis, cell proliferation, DNA repair, and intracellular signaling, all of which are essential for tumorigenesis. FR is more prevalent in cancer cells compared to normal tissues, which makes it an excellent target for oncologic therapeutics. FRα is found in many cancer types, including ovarian cancer, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and colon cancer. FR is widely used in antibody drug conjugates, small-molecule-drug conjugates, and chimeric antigen-receptor T cells. Current oncolytic therapeutics include mirvetuximab soravtansine, and ongoing clinical trials are underway to investigate chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells) and vaccines. Additionally, FRα has been used in a myriad of other applications, including as a tool in the identification of tumor types, and as a prognostic marker, as a surrogate of chemotherapy resistance. As such, FRα identification has become an essential part of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresita Gonzalez
- Memorial Cancer Institute, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028, USA; (M.M.); (O.N.); (M.V.)
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10
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Shrestha B, Tallila M, Matilainen O. Folate receptor overexpression induces toxicity in a diet-dependent manner in C. elegans. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1066. [PMID: 38212621 PMCID: PMC10784478 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51700-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Folate receptor (FR) alpha (FOLR1) and beta (FOLR2) are membrane-anchored folate transporters that are expressed at low levels in normal tissues, while their expression is strongly increased in several cancers. Intriguingly, although the function of these receptors in, for example, development and cancer has been studied intensively, their role in aging is still unknown. To address this, we utilized Caenorhabditis elegans, in which FOLR-1 is the sole ortholog of folate receptors. We found that the loss of FOLR-1 does not affect reproduction, physical condition, proteostasis or lifespan, indicating that it is not required for folate transport to maintain health. Interestingly, we found that FOLR-1 is detectably expressed only in uterine-vulval cells, and that the histone-binding protein LIN-53 inhibits its expression in other tissues. Furthermore, whereas knockdown of lin-53 is known to shorten lifespan, we found that the loss of FOLR-1 partially rescues this phenotype, suggesting that elevated folr-1 expression is detrimental for health. Indeed, our data demonstrate that overexpression of folr-1 is toxic, and that this phenotype is dependent on diet. Altogether, this work could serve as a basis for further studies to elucidate the organismal effects of abnormal FR expression in diseases such as cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bideep Shrestha
- The Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Milla Tallila
- The Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Matilainen
- The Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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11
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Saito A, Nishikawa T, Yoshida H, Mizoguchi C, Kitadai R, Yamamoto K, Yazaki S, Kojima Y, Ishikawa M, Kato T, Yonemori K. Folate receptor alpha is widely expressed and a potential therapeutic target in uterine and ovarian carcinosarcoma. Gynecol Oncol 2023; 176:115-121. [PMID: 37506533 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2023.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Folate receptor alpha (FRα), which is expressed in various cancers, is a potential therapeutic target. However, its expression and clinical significance in uterine (UCS) and ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) remain to be elucidated. METHODS This retrospective study included patients with gynecologic carcinosarcoma who underwent primary surgery between 1997 and 2019 at our institution. Immunohistochemical staining of surgical FFPE specimens was performed for FRα and HER2. FRα was evaluated using the H-score and the 4-tired scoring system (0 to 3+). Subsequently, FRα expression (≥5% of tumor cells with ≥1+ intensity) and FRα-high (score 2+ and 3+) were evaluated. HER2 was scored according to the modified ASCO/CAP criteria. The association between FRα-high and clinicopathological features, HER2 expression, and survival was assessed in UCS. RESULTS A total of 120 patients with UCS and nine patients with OCS were included. In UCS, FRα expression was observed in all patients, whereas FRα-high status was present in 20% of patients. Among HER2-negative UCS, 34% exhibited FRα-high. No significant association was observed between clinicopathological characteristics and FRα status. During the follow-up period (median 34.5 mo), FRα-high was not strongly associated with progression, free survival, and overall survival. All the OCS tumor specimens showed FRα-high expression. CONCLUSIONS FRα expression was observed in all the UCS and OCS specimens, including HER2-negative UCS patients. This widespread FRα expression suggests that FRα-targeted therapies may hold promise for the treatment for gynecologic carcinosarcoma. However, in uterine carcinosarcoma, no significant relationship was observed between FRα expression and clinicopathological features or prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Saito
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadaaki Nishikawa
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yoshida
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chiharu Mizoguchi
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rui Kitadai
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kasumi Yamamoto
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shu Yazaki
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Kojima
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuya Ishikawa
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Kato
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kan Yonemori
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
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12
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Mai J, Wu L, Yang L, Sun T, Liu X, Yin R, Jiang Y, Li J, Li Q. Therapeutic strategies targeting folate receptor α for ovarian cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1254532. [PMID: 37711615 PMCID: PMC10499382 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1254532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the deadliest gynecological cancer, and presents a major clinical challenge due to limited treatment options. Folate receptor alpha (FRα), encoded by the FOLR1 gene, is an attractive therapeutically target due to its prevalent and high expression in EOC cells. Recent basic and translational studies have explored several modalities, such as antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), monoclonal antibodies, small molecules, and folate-drug conjugate, to exploit FRα for EOC treatment. In this review, we summarize the function of FRα, and clinical efficacies of various FRα-based therapeutics. We highlight mirvetuximab soravtansine (MIRV), or Elahere (ImmunoGen), the first FRα-targeting ADC approved by the FDA to treat platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. We discuss potential mechanisms and management of ocular adverse events associated with MIRV administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Mai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Growth, Metabolism and Aging, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Limei Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Growth, Metabolism and Aging, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ling Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Growth, Metabolism and Aging, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ting Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The first Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaojuan Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Growth, Metabolism and Aging, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Rutie Yin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Growth, Metabolism and Aging, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yongmei Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Growth, Metabolism and Aging, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinke Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Growth, Metabolism and Aging, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qintong Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Growth, Metabolism and Aging, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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13
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Xu K, Wang T, Pan S, He J. The efficacy and toxicity of mirvetuximab soravtansine, a novel antibody-drug conjugate, in the treatment of advanced or recurrent ovarian cancer: a meta-analysis. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2023; 16:1141-1152. [PMID: 37771164 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2023.2262673] [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: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This meta-analysis aims to systematically analyze the efficacy and toxicity of mirvetuximab soravtansine (MIRV) as second-line and above treatment for advanced or recurrent ovarian cancer. METHODS Candidate studies were identified in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, and Wanfang databases up to 1 May 2023. Objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), the incidence of adverse events (AEs), and incidence of grade ≥ 3 AEs were extracted and calculated by meta-analysis of merging ratios or mean to describe the efficacy and toxicity of MIRV. RESULTS Seven eligible prospective studies were included in this meta-analysis, including 605 patients with advanced ovarian cancer who received second-line or higher therapy. ORR of MIRV was 34.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 25.0-43.5), and PFS was 5.82 months (95%CI 4.47-7.18). The overall incidence of AEs was 87.4% (95%CI 52.9-100.0) and the incidence of grade ≥ 3 AEs was 27.1% (95%CI 18.9-36.1). The most common AEs were vision blurring, nausea, and diarrhea, with incidence of 46.7% (39.6-53.8), 41.8% (34.0-49.9), and 41.3% (30.4-52.5), respectively. CONCLUSIONS MIRV has definite efficacy and good safety as a novel choice for second-line and above treatment of advanced or recurrent FRα positive ovarian cancer. This may have promising application in patients with platinum-resistant diseases. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42023428599.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Xu
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tianlei Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shenbin Pan
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jie He
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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14
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Puris E, Fricker G, Gynther M. The Role of Solute Carrier Transporters in Efficient Anticancer Drug Delivery and Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020364. [PMID: 36839686 PMCID: PMC9966068 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Transporter-mediated drug resistance is a major obstacle in anticancer drug delivery and a key reason for cancer drug therapy failure. Membrane solute carrier (SLC) transporters play a crucial role in the cellular uptake of drugs. The expression and function of the SLC transporters can be down-regulated in cancer cells, which limits the uptake of drugs into the tumor cells, resulting in the inefficiency of the drug therapy. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of low-SLC-transporter-expression-mediated drug resistance in different types of cancers. Recent advances in SLC-transporter-targeting strategies include the development of transporter-utilizing prodrugs and nanocarriers and the modulation of SLC transporter expression in cancer cells. These strategies will play an important role in the future development of anticancer drug therapies by enabling the efficient delivery of drugs into cancer cells.
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15
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Banerjee S, Michalarea V, Ang JE, Ingles Garces A, Biondo A, Funingana IG, Little M, Ruddle R, Raynaud F, Riisnaes R, Gurel B, Chua S, Tunariu N, Porter JC, Prout T, Parmar M, Zachariou A, Turner A, Jenkins B, McIntosh S, Ainscow E, Minchom A, Lopez J, de Bono J, Jones R, Hall E, Cook N, Basu B, Banerji U. A Phase I Trial of CT900, a Novel α-Folate Receptor-Mediated Thymidylate Synthase Inhibitor, in Patients with Solid Tumors with Expansion Cohorts in Patients with High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:4634-4641. [PMID: 35984704 PMCID: PMC9623233 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-22-1268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE CT900 is a novel small molecule thymidylate synthase inhibitor that binds to α-folate receptor (α-FR) and thus is selectively taken up by α-FR-overexpressing tumors. PATIENTS AND METHODS A 3+3 dose escalation design was used. During dose escalation, CT900 doses of 1-6 mg/m2 weekly and 2-12 mg/m2 every 2 weeks (q2Wk) intravenously were evaluated. Patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer were enrolled in the expansion cohorts. RESULTS 109 patients were enrolled: 42 patients in the dose escalation and 67 patients in the expansion cohorts. At the dose/schedule of 12 mg/m2/q2Wk (with and without dexamethasone, n = 40), the most common treatment-related adverse events were fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, cough, anemia, and pneumonitis, which were predominantly grade 1 and grade 2. Levels of CT900 more than 600 nmol/L needed for growth inhibition in preclinical models were achieved for >65 hours at a dose of 12 mg/m2. In the expansion cohorts, the overall response rate (ORR), was 14/64 (21.9%). Thirty-eight response-evaluable patients in the expansion cohorts receiving 12 mg/m2/q2Wk had tumor evaluable for quantification of α-FR. Patients with high or medium expression had an objective response rate of 9/25 (36%) compared with 1/13 (7.7%) in patients with negative/very low or low expression of α-FR. CONCLUSIONS The dose of 12 mg/m2/q2Wk was declared the recommended phase II dose/schedule. At this dose/schedule, CT900 exhibited an acceptable side effect profile with clinical benefit in patients with high/medium α-FR expression and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Banerjee
- Division of Clinical Studies, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
- Gynaecology Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vasiliki Michalarea
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joo Ern Ang
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alvaro Ingles Garces
- Gynaecology Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Biondo
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ionut-Gabriel Funingana
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Little
- Experimental Cancer Medicine Team, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Ruddle
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Florence Raynaud
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Riisnaes
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bora Gurel
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sue Chua
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nina Tunariu
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna C. Porter
- UCL Respiratory, University College London and Interstitial Lung Disease Service, University College London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Toby Prout
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mona Parmar
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Zachariou
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Turner
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Jenkins
- Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Anna Minchom
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Juanita Lopez
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Johann de Bono
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Jones
- Cardiff University, School of Medicine, Velindre University NHS Trust, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Hall
- Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Cook
- Experimental Cancer Medicine Team, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Division of Cancer Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Bristi Basu
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Udai Banerji
- Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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16
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Yazaki S, Kojima Y, Yoshida H, Takamizawa S, Kitadai R, Nishikawa T, Shimoi T, Sudo K, Saito A, Okuma HS, Tanioka M, Noguchi E, Uno M, Ishikawa M, Kato T, Fujiwara Y, Ohe Y, Yonemori K. High expression of folate receptor alpha is associated with poor prognosis in patients with cervical cancer. J Gynecol Oncol 2022; 33:e82. [PMID: 36245230 PMCID: PMC9634091 DOI: 10.3802/jgo.2022.33.e82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Folate receptor α (FRα) is a membrane protein expressed in various solid tumors but has limited expression in normal cells. Therefore, FRα is an attractive target for cancer treatment. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between FRα expression and the clinicopathological characteristics and survivals of cervical cancer. METHODS This retrospective study included patients with cervical cancer who underwent primary surgery between 2000 and 2020 at our institution. Immunohistochemical staining of FRα was performed using an anti-folate-binding protein/FBP antibody. FRα-positive staining was defined as ≥5% of tumor staining and FRα-high as ≥50% tumor staining with ≥2+ intensity. The association between FRα expression and survival was assessed using multivariate Cox regression analysis, adjusting for established prognostic factors. RESULTS Overall, 123 patients were identified, and 140 tumor samples, including 17 paired primary and metastatic samples, were evaluated. As histological types, 67 patients had squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and 56 patients had non-SCC. All primary tumors were FRα-positive. High FRα expression was observed in 25% of the cases and differed according to histology (SCC vs. non-SCC, 14.9% vs. 37.5%, p=0.004). FRα expression was significantly higher in metastatic tumors than in primary (170 [IQR, 140-205] vs. 125 [IQR, 110-150], p=0.0006). High FRα expression was significantly associated with worse overall survival (hazard ratio, 6.73; 95% confidence interval, 2.21-20.53; p=0.001). CONCLUSION In cervical cancer, FRα expression was elevated in metastatic tumors and high expression was associated with a worse prognosis. Our study supports the development of FRα-targeted therapy for advanced cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Yazaki
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Cancer Medicine, Jikei University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Kojima
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yoshida
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Rui Kitadai
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadaaki Nishikawa
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsunori Shimoi
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sudo
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Saito
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Maki Tanioka
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emi Noguchi
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaya Uno
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuya Ishikawa
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Kato
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Fujiwara
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Ohe
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Jikei University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kan Yonemori
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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17
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Gupta R, Jit BP, Kumar S, Mittan S, Tanwer P, Ray MD, Mathur S, Perumal V, Kumar L, Rath GK, Sharma A. Leveraging epigenetics to enhance the efficacy of cancer-testis antigen: a potential candidate for immunotherapy. Epigenomics 2022; 14:865-886. [DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy in women. The phenotype is characterized by delayed diagnosis, recurrence and drug resistance. Inherent immunogenicity potential, oncogenic function and expression of cancer-testis/germline antigen (CTA) in ovarian cancer render them a potential candidate for immunotherapy. Revolutionary clinical findings indicate that tumor antigen-mediated T-cell and dendritic cell-based immunotherapeutic approaches provide an excellent strategy for targeting tumors. Currently, dendritic cell vaccination for the treatment of B-cell lymphoma and CTA-based T-cell receptor transduced T-cell therapy involving MAGE-A4 and NY-ESO-1 are well documented and shown to be effective. This review highlighted the mechanical aspects of epigenetic drugs that can elicit a CTA-based humoral and cellular immune response and implicate T-cell and dendritic cell-based immunotherapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashmi Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, National Cancer Institute – India, Jhajjar Campus, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Bimal Prasad Jit
- Department of Biochemistry, National Cancer Institute – India, Jhajjar Campus, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry, National Cancer Institute – India, Jhajjar Campus, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Sandeep Mittan
- Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, NY 10467, USA
| | - Pranay Tanwer
- Laboratory Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - M D Ray
- Department of Surgical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Sandeep Mathur
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Vanamail Perumal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Lalit Kumar
- Department of Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - G K Rath
- Department of Radiotherapy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Ashok Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, National Cancer Institute – India, Jhajjar Campus, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
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18
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Nawaz FZ, Kipreos ET. Emerging roles for folate receptor FOLR1 in signaling and cancer. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2022; 33:159-174. [PMID: 35094917 PMCID: PMC8923831 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Folates are B vitamins that function in one-carbon metabolism. Folate receptors are one of three major types of folate transporters. The folate receptors FOLR1 and FOLR2 are overexpressed in multiple cancers. The overexpression of FOLR1 is often associated with increased cancer progression and poor patient prognosis. There is emerging evidence that FOLR1 is involved in signaling pathways that are independent of one-carbon metabolism. Recent publications implicate a direct role of FOLR1 in three signaling pathways: JAK-STAT3, ERK1/2, and as a transcription factor. Six other signaling pathways have been proposed to include FOLR1, but these currently lack sufficient data to infer a direct signaling role for FOLR1. We discuss the data that support noncanonical roles for FOLR1, and its limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fathima Zahra Nawaz
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Edward T Kipreos
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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19
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Chilimoniuk Z, Rocka A, Stefaniak M, Tomczyk Ż, Jasielska F, Madras D, Filip A. Molecular methods for increasing the effectiveness of ovarian cancer treatment: a systematic review. Future Oncol 2022; 18:1627-1650. [PMID: 35129396 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2021-0565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The aim of the current study is to analyze and summarize the latest research on improving therapy in ovarian cancer. Materials & methods: Data analysis was based on a review of publications from 2011 to 2021 in the PubMed database with use of the search terms including 'EGFR ovarian cancer', 'folate receptor inhibitors ovarian cancer', 'VEGF ovarian cancer', 'PDGF ovarian cancer' and 'CTLA-4 ovarian cancer'. Results: 6643 articles were found; 238 clinical trials and randomized control trials were analyzed; 122 studies were rejected due to inconsistency with the topic of the work. Conclusion: Extensive research on the treatment of ovarian cancer increases the chance of developing the most effective therapy suited to the individual needs of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzanna Chilimoniuk
- Students' Scientific Association at the Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetics Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Radziwiłłowska 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Agata Rocka
- Students' Scientific Association at the Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetics Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Radziwiłłowska 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Martyna Stefaniak
- Students' Scientific Association at the Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetics Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Radziwiłłowska 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Żaklina Tomczyk
- Students' Scientific Association at the Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetics Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Radziwiłłowska 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Faustyna Jasielska
- Students' Scientific Association at the Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetics Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Radziwiłłowska 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Dominika Madras
- Students' Scientific Association at the Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetics Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Radziwiłłowska 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Agata Filip
- Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetics Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Radziwiłłowska 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
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20
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Ceci C, Lacal PM, Graziani G. Antibody-drug conjugates: Resurgent anticancer agents with multi-targeted therapeutic potential. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 236:108106. [PMID: 34990642 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.108106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) constitute a relatively new group of anticancer agents, whose first appearance took place about two decades ago, but a renewed interest occurred in recent years, following the success of anti-cancer immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies. Indeed, an ADC combines the selectivity of a monoclonal antibody with the cell killing properties of a chemotherapeutic agent (payload), joined together through an appropriate linker. The antibody moiety targets a specific cell surface antigen expressed by tumor cells and/or cells of the tumor microenvironment and acts as a carrier that delivers the cytotoxic payload within the tumor mass. Despite advantages in terms of selectivity and potency, the development of ADCs is not devoid of challenges, due to: i) low tumor selectivity when the target antigens are not exclusively expressed by cancer cells; ii) premature release of the cytotoxic drug into the bloodstream as a consequence of linker instability; iii) development of tumor resistance mechanisms to the payload. All these factors may result in lack of efficacy and/or in no safety improvement compared to unconjugated cytotoxic agents. Nevertheless, the development of antibodies engineered to remain inert until activated in the tumor (e.g., antibodies activated proteolytically after internalization or by the acidic conditions of the tumor microenvironment) together with the discovery of innovative targets and cytotoxic or immunomodulatory payloads, have allowed the design of next-generation ADCs that are expected to possess improved therapeutic properties. This review provides an overview of approved ADCs, with related advantages and limitations, and of novel targets exploited by ADCs that are presently under clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ceci
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; IDI-IRCCS, Via Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy.
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21
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Choubey P, Kaur H, Bansal K. Modulation of DNA/RNA Methylation Signaling Mediating Metabolic Homeostasis in Cancer. Subcell Biochem 2022; 100:201-237. [PMID: 36301496 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-07634-3_7] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid methylation is a fundamental epigenetic mechanism that impinges upon several cellular attributes, including metabolism and energy production. The dysregulation of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)/ribonucleic acid (RNA) methylation can lead to metabolic rewiring in the cell, which in turn facilitates tumor development. Here, we review the current knowledge on the interplay between DNA/RNA methylation and metabolic programs in cancer cells. We also discuss the mechanistic role of these pathways in tumor development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallawi Choubey
- Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit (MBGU), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Jakkur, Bangalore, India
| | - Harshdeep Kaur
- Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit (MBGU), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Jakkur, Bangalore, India
| | - Kushagra Bansal
- Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit (MBGU), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Jakkur, Bangalore, India.
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22
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Folate Transport and One-Carbon Metabolism in Targeted Therapies of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010191. [PMID: 35008360 PMCID: PMC8750473 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010191] [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: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
New therapies are urgently needed for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), the most lethal gynecologic malignancy. To identify new approaches for targeting EOC, metabolic vulnerabilities must be discovered and strategies for the selective delivery of therapeutic agents must be established. Folate receptor (FR) α and the proton-coupled folate transporter (PCFT) are expressed in the majority of EOCs. FRβ is expressed on tumor-associated macrophages, a major infiltrating immune population in EOC. One-carbon (C1) metabolism is partitioned between the cytosol and mitochondria and is important for the synthesis of nucleotides, amino acids, glutathione, and other critical metabolites. Novel inhibitors are being developed with the potential for therapeutic targeting of tumors via FRs and the PCFT, as well as for inhibiting C1 metabolism. In this review, we summarize these exciting new developments in targeted therapies for both tumors and the tumor microenvironment in EOC.
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23
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Bartoletti M, Musacchio L, Giannone G, Tuninetti V, Bergamini A, Scambia G, Lorusso D, Valabrega G, Mangili G, Puglisi F, Pignata S. Emerging molecular alterations leading to histology-specific targeted therapies in ovarian cancer beyond PARP inhibitors. Cancer Treat Rev 2021; 101:102298. [PMID: 34634660 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2021.102298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
After more than 30 years of a one-size-fits-all approach in the management of advanced ovarian cancer, in 2018 the SOLO1 trial results have introduced a new era of personalized medicine. A deeper knowledge of ovarian cancer biology and the development of new drugs targeting specific molecular pathways have led to biomarker-driven phase 3 trials with practice changing results. Thereafter, platinum-based combinations are no longer the only therapeutic options available in first line setting and poly-ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors maintenance therapy has become the mainstay in patients with tumor harboring a homologous recombination defect. However, most of the recent therapeutic breakthroughs regard high grade serous carcinoma, the most frequent ovarian cancer subtype, and only few improvements have occurred in the management of less common histotypes. Moving towards the next challenges, we aimed to investigate and review new potential molecular targets in ovarian cancer, according to histotype, starting from promising molecular drivers and matched drugs that have been investigated in early and late-stage clinical trials or conceptualized in preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bartoletti
- Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy; Unit of Medical Oncology and Cancer Prevention, Department of Medical Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, Aviano (PN), Italy
| | - L Musacchio
- Department of Women and Child Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - G Giannone
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO- IRCCS, Candiolo (TO), Italy; Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Torino, Piemonte, Italy
| | - V Tuninetti
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO- IRCCS, Candiolo (TO), Italy; Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Torino, Piemonte, Italy
| | - A Bergamini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - G Scambia
- Department of Women and Child Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Department of Life Science and Public Health, Catholic University of Sacred Heart Largo Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - D Lorusso
- Department of Women and Child Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Department of Life Science and Public Health, Catholic University of Sacred Heart Largo Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - G Valabrega
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO- IRCCS, Candiolo (TO), Italy; Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Torino, Piemonte, Italy
| | - G Mangili
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - F Puglisi
- Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy; Unit of Medical Oncology and Cancer Prevention, Department of Medical Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, Aviano (PN), Italy
| | - S Pignata
- Department of Urology and Gynecology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy.
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24
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Onodera R, Sakai A, Tokuda A, Higashi T, Motoyama K. The effect of folate-appended methyl-β-cyclodextrin increases on survival rates in a peritoneal dissemination mouse models of human ovarian cancer. J INCL PHENOM MACRO 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10847-021-01109-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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25
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Ning F, Cole CB, Annunziata CM. Driving Immune Responses in the Ovarian Tumor Microenvironment. Front Oncol 2021; 10:604084. [PMID: 33520713 PMCID: PMC7843421 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.604084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death among gynecological neoplasms, with an estimated 14,000 deaths in 2019. First-line treatment options center around a taxane and platinum-based chemotherapy regimen. However, many patients often have recurrence due to late stage diagnoses and acquired chemo-resistance. Recent approvals for bevacizumab and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors have improved treatment options but effective treatments are still limited in the recurrent setting. Immunotherapy has seen significant success in hematological and solid malignancies. However, effectiveness has been limited in ovarian cancer. This may be due to a highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and a lack of tumor-specific antigens. Certain immune cell subsets, such as regulatory T cells and tumor-associated macrophages, have been implicated in ovarian cancer. Consequently, therapies augmenting the immune response, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and dendritic cell vaccines, may be unable to properly enact their effector functions. A better understanding of the various interactions among immune cell subsets in the peritoneal microenvironment is necessary to develop efficacious therapies. This review will discuss various cell subsets in the ovarian tumor microenvironment, current immunotherapy modalities to target or augment these immune subsets, and treatment challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franklin Ning
- Translational Genomics Section, Women's Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Christopher B Cole
- Translational Genomics Section, Women's Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Christina M Annunziata
- Translational Genomics Section, Women's Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
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26
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Impact of extracellular folic acid levels on oviductal gene expression. Theriogenology 2020; 154:161-170. [PMID: 32622196 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Folate plays a specific role as methyl donor for nucleotide synthesis and genomic methylation patterns, which in turn are important epigenetic determinants in gene expression. Previous studies have revealed the presence of folate in bovine oviductal fluid as well as the existence of a fine-tuned regulation of the gene expression of folate receptors and transporters in bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOECs). However, the functional implications of folate in the oviduct remain unknown. The present study aimed to assess the effect of folic acid (FA) on expression levels of selected genes that potentially respond to the folate status in in vitro BOECs. To obtain an insight into the optimization of a culture system for assays, gene expression of folate receptors and transporters was compared between BOECs grown in monolayers and in suspension. The results showed that BOECs from isthmus and ampulla in suspension culture better preserved the region-dependent gene expression profile than in monolayers. Subsequently, BOECs from both anatomical regions were separately cultured in suspension for 24 h assaying different FA concentrations: I) TCM-199 (control); II) TCM-199 + 1 μM FA (similar to the oviduct concentration); III) TCM-199 + 10 μM FA and IV) TCM-199 + 100 μM FA. Expression analysis of genes related to important cellular processes including folate transport, DNA methylation, cell-cell interaction, antioxidant activity and signaling pathways was performed in BOECs using RT-qPCR. Our data demonstrated that addition of 1 μM FA did not affect mRNA levels of most genes analyzed. In contrast, BOECs cultured with 10 μM FA exhibited increased mRNA expression levels of genes involved in folate intake, DNA methylation and antioxidant protection. It is worth noting that at 100 μM FA, transcriptional response in BOECs mainly resulted in decreased mRNA levels of the majority of the genes assayed. Interestingly, cytotoxicity analysis showed a similar LDH activity in the culture media of the experimental groups, indicating that cell integrity was not affected by the FA concentrations assayed. In conclusion, our findings suggest that folate can affect BOECs, promoting changes in gene activity in a framework of functional readjustments in response to environmental conditions.
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27
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Zagorac I, Lončar B, Dmitrović B, Kralik K, Kovačević A. Correlation of folate receptor alpha expression with clinicopathological parameters and outcome in triple negative breast cancer. Ann Diagn Pathol 2020; 48:151596. [PMID: 32829070 DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2020.151596] [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] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Folate receptor alpha (FRα) is a membrane-bound protein with a high affinity for folate, which is necessary for the biosynthesis of amino acids and nucleotide bases. It has been shown to be a potential prognostic and therapeutic target, primarily in lung and ovarian cancer, as well as in breast cancer. The aim of this study was to examine FRα expression in a cohort of patients with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), in correlation with clinicopathological parameters and prognostic factors. By using polyclonal FRα antibody on archival paraffin blocks immunohistochemistry was performed. To evaluate the expression of FRα, H-score was used, which marks both the proportion of stained cells and the intensity of staining. Statistical analysis correlating FRα expression with clinicopathologic parameters and clinical outcome were performed. FRα was expressed in most of the patients (85%). Significant correlation of expression and histologic grade (Mann Whitney U test, P = 0,03) and type of tumor (P = 0,02), was found. It was noticed that with higher Ki-67 proliferation index values, H-score has lower values (r = -0,284, P = 0,006). Multivariant regression analysis (Cox regression, Stepwise method) showed H-score as a significant predictor for the risk of disease recurrence (OR = 1,005, P = 0,04). No correlation between FRα expression and overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) was found. In conclusion, FRα is highly expressed in TNBC, and, given the correlation with clinicopathological parameters, subpopulation of patients could be identified that could be potential targets for new therapeutic perspectives in the treatment of this breast cancer subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Zagorac
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Osijek University Hospital, Josipa Huttlera 4, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia.
| | - Branka Lončar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia; Department of Clinical Cytology, Osijek University Hospital, Josipa Huttlera 4, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Branko Dmitrović
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Osijek University Hospital, Josipa Huttlera 4, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia; Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, University of Osijek, Crkvena 21, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Kristina Kralik
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Andrej Kovačević
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Osijek University Hospital, Josipa Huttlera 4, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia
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28
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Borlan R, Tatar AS, Soritau O, Maniu D, Marc G, Florea A, Focsan M, Astilean S. Design of fluorophore-loaded human serum albumin nanoparticles for specific targeting of NIH:OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 31:315102. [PMID: 32315999 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ab8b90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, extensive research is being carried out to find innovative solutions for the development of stable, reproductible, and highly efficient fluorescent contrast agents with the ability of targeting specific cells, which can be further implemented for fluorescent-guided surgery in a real clinical setting. The present study is focused on the development of fluorescent dye-loaded protein nanoparticles (NPs) to overcome the drawbacks of the standard administration of free organic fluorophores, such as cytotoxicity, aqueousinstability, and rapid photo-degradation. Precisely, human serum albumin (HSA) NPs loaded with two different FDA approved dyes, namely indocyanine green (ICG) and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), with a fluorescence response in the near-infrared and visible spectral domains, respectively, have been successfully designed. Even though the diameter of fluorescent HSA NPs is around 30 nm as proven by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy investigations, they present good loading efficiencies of almost 50% for ICG, and over 30% for FITC and a high particle yield of over 75%. Molecular docking simulations of ICG and FITC within the structure of HSA confirmed that the dyes were loaded inside the NPs, and docked in Site I (subdomain IIA) of the HSA molecule. After the confirmation of their high fluorescence photostability, the NPs were covalently conjugated with folic acid (HSA-FA NPs) in order to bind specifically to the folate receptor alpha (FRα) protein overexpressed on NIH:OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells. Finally, fluorescence microscopy imaging investigations validate the improved internalization of folate targeted HSA&FITC NPs compared to cells treated with untargeted ones. Furthermore, TEM examinations of the distribution of HSA NPs into the NIH:OVCAR3 cells revealed anincreased number of NP-containing vesicles for the cells treated with HSA-FA NPs, compared to the cells exposed to untargeted HAS NPs, upholding the enhanced cellular uptake through FRα-mediated potocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raluca Borlan
- Biomolecular Physics Department, Faculty of Physics, Babeş-Bolyai University, 1 Kogălniceanu Street, Cluj-Napoca 400084, Romania. Nanobiophotonics and Laser Microspectroscopy Centre, Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babeş-Bolyai University, 42 Treboniu Laurean Street, Cluj-Napoca 400271, Romania
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29
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Scaranti M, Cojocaru E, Banerjee S, Banerji U. Exploiting the folate receptor α in oncology. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2020; 17:349-359. [PMID: 32152484 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-020-0339-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Folate receptor α (FRα) came into focus as an anticancer target many decades after the successful development of drugs targeting intracellular folate metabolism, such as methotrexate and pemetrexed. Binding to FRα is one of several methods by which folate is taken up by cells; however, this receptor is an attractive anticancer drug target owing to the overexpression of FRα in a range of solid tumours, including ovarian, lung and breast cancers. Furthermore, using FRα to better localize effective anticancer therapies to their target tumours using platforms such as antibody-drug conjugates, small-molecule drug conjugates, radioimmunoconjugates and, more recently, chimeric antigen receptor T cells could further improve the outcomes of patients with FRα-overexpressing cancers. FRα can also be harnessed for predictive biomarker research. Moreover, imaging FRα radiologically or in real time during surgery can lead to improved functional imaging and surgical outcomes, respectively. In this Review, we describe the current status of research into FRα in cancer, including data from several late-phase clinical trials involving FRα-targeted therapies, and the use of new technologies to develop FRα-targeted agents with improved therapeutic indices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Scaranti
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Elena Cojocaru
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Susana Banerjee
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Udai Banerji
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
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30
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Kok DE, O'Flanagan CH, Coleman MF, Ashkavand Z, Hursting SD, Krupenko SA. Effects of folic acid withdrawal on transcriptomic profiles in murine triple-negative breast cancer cell lines. Biochimie 2020; 173:114-122. [PMID: 32304770 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2020.04.005] [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: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We have previously shown that withdrawal of folic acid led to metabolic reprogramming and a less aggressive phenotype in a mouse cell model of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Herein, we evaluate the effects of folic acid withdrawal on transcriptomic profiles in these cells. Murine cell lines were originally derived from a pool of spontaneous mammary tumors grown in MMTV-Wnt1 transgenic mice. Based on their differential molecular characteristics and metastatic potential, these cell lines were previously characterized as non-metastatic epithelial (E-Wnt), non-metastatic mesenchymal (M-Wnt) and metastatic mesenchymal (metM-Wntliver) cells. Using custom two-color 180K Agilent microarrays, we have determined gene expression profiles for three biological replicates of each subtype kept on standard medium (2.2 μM folic acid) or folic acid-free medium for 72 h. The analyses revealed that more genes were differentially expressed upon folic acid withdrawal in M-Wnt cells (1884 genes; Benjamini-Hochberg-adjusted P-value <0.05) compared to E-Wnt and metM-Wntliver cells (108 and 222 genes, respectively). Pathway analysis has identified that type I interferon signaling was strongly affected by folic acid withdrawal, with interferon-responsive genes consistently being upregulated upon folic acid withdrawal in M-Wnt cells. Of note, repressed interferon signaling has been established as one of the characteristics of aggressive human TNBC, and hence reactivation of this pathway may be a promising therapeutic approach. Overall, while our study indicates that the response to folic acid withdrawal varies by molecular subtype and cellular phenotype, it also underscores the necessity to further investigate one-carbon metabolism as a potential therapeutic means in the treatment of advanced TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieuwertje E Kok
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University & Research, the Netherlands.
| | - Ciara H O'Flanagan
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA.
| | - Michael F Coleman
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, USA.
| | - Zahra Ashkavand
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, USA.
| | - Stephen D Hursting
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA.
| | - Sergey A Krupenko
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA; Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, USA.
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Abstract
Vaccines have had a profound impact on the management and prevention of infectious disease. In addition, the development of vaccines against chronic diseases has attracted considerable interest as an approach to prevent, rather than treat, conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and others. Subunit vaccines consist of nongenetic components of the infectious agent or disease-related epitope. In this Review, we discuss peptide-based vaccines and their potential in three therapeutic areas: infectious disease, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. We discuss factors that contribute to vaccine efficacy and how these parameters may potentially be modulated by design. We examine both clinically tested vaccines as well as nascent approaches and explore current challenges and potential remedies. While peptide vaccines hold substantial promise in the prevention of human disease, many obstacles remain that have hampered their clinical use; thus, continued research efforts to address these challenges are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J. Malonis
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Michael F. Price Center for Translational Research, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461
| | - Jonathan R. Lai
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Michael F. Price Center for Translational Research, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461
| | - Olivia Vergnolle
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Michael F. Price Center for Translational Research, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461
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32
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Norton N, Youssef B, Hillman DW, Nassar A, Geiger XJ, Necela BM, Liu H, Ruddy KJ, Polley MYC, Ingle JN, Couch FJ, Perez EA, Liu MC, Carter JM, Leon-Ferre RA, Boughey JC, Somers EB, Kalari KR, Visscher DW, Goetz MP, Knutson KL. Folate receptor alpha expression associates with improved disease-free survival in triple negative breast cancer patients. NPJ Breast Cancer 2020; 6:4. [PMID: 32047850 PMCID: PMC7000381 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-020-0147-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) comprises 15-20% of all invasive breast cancer and is associated with a poor prognosis. As therapy options are limited for this subtype, there is a significant need to identify new targeted approaches for TNBC patient management. The expression of the folate receptor alpha (FRα) is significantly increased in patients with TNBC and is therefore a potential biomarker and therapeutic target. We optimized and validated a FRα immunohistochemistry method, specific to TNBC, to measure FRα expression in a centrally confirmed cohort of 384 patients with TNBC in order to determine if expression of the protein is associated with invasive disease-free survival (IDFS) and overall survival (OS). The FRα IHC demonstrated exceptional performance characteristics with low intra- and interassay variability as well as minimal lot-to-lot variation. FRα expression, which varied widely from sample to sample, was detected in 274 (71%) of the TNBC lesions. In a multivariable model adjusted for baseline characteristics, FRα expression was associated with improved IDFS (HR = 0.63, p = 0.01) but not with OS. The results demonstrate the potential of targeting the FRα in the majority of TNBC patients and suggest that variable expression may point to a need to stratify on FRα expression in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Norton
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224 USA
| | | | - David W. Hillman
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | - Aziza Nassar
- Department of Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224 USA
| | | | - Brian M. Necela
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224 USA
| | - Heshan Liu
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | | | - Mei-Yin C. Polley
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | - James N. Ingle
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | - Fergus J. Couch
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | - Edith A. Perez
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224 USA
| | - Minetta C. Liu
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | - Jodi M. Carter
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | | | | | | | - Krishna R. Kalari
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | - Daniel W. Visscher
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | - Matthew P. Goetz
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
- Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905 USA
| | - Keith L. Knutson
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32246 USA
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Wang Q, Zhang Q, Gan Z, Li H, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Zhao X. Screening for reproductive biomarkers in Bactrian camel via iTRAQ analysis of proteomes. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:189-199. [PMID: 31840896 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Bactrian camel is an ancient and precious species of livestock; that is, unique resources exist in the desert and have important economic and scientific value. In recent years, the number of Bactrian camels has declined sharply. Due to its long reproductive cycle and seasonal oestrus, the mechanism of oestrus is unknown. To identify candidate biomarkers of reproduction, we performed a comprehensive proteomic analysis of serum from Bactrian camel in oestrus and non-oestrus, using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. We identified 359 proteins, of which 32 were differentially expressed: 11 were up-regulated and 21 were down-regulated in samples from camels in oestrus. We validated the differential expression of a subset of these proteins using qPCR and Western blot. Gene ontology annotation identified that the differentially expressed proteins function in cellular processes, metabolic processes and immune system processes. Notably, five of the differentially expressed proteins, PCGF5, histone H1.2, RBP4, FOLR1 and ANTXR2, are involved in reproductive regulatory processes in other animals. KEGG enrichment analysis demonstrated significant enrichment in several cardiac-related pathways, such as 'dilated cardiomyopathy', 'hypertrophic cardiomyopathy', 'cardiac muscle contraction' and 'adrenergic signalling in cardiomyopathy'. Our results suggest that candidate biomarker (PCGF5, histone H1.2, RBP4, FOLR1 and ANTXR2) discovery can aid in understanding reproduction in Bactrian camels. We conclude that the profiling of serum proteomes, followed by the measurement of selected proteins using more targeted methods, offers a promising approach for studying mechanisms of oestrus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Quanwei Zhang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ze Gan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Haijiang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yang Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China.,College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xingxu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China.,College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
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Cancer of Reproductive System: Receptors and Targeting Strategies. TARGETED INTRACELLULAR DRUG DELIVERY BY RECEPTOR MEDIATED ENDOCYTOSIS 2019. [PMCID: PMC7122620 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-29168-6_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Carcinogenesis in the different organs of the reproductive system, particularly, prostate, ovarian, and cervical tissues, involves aberrant expression of various physiological receptors belonging to different superfamilies. This chapter provides insights into the physiological receptors that are associated with the genesis, progression, metastasis, management, as well as the prognosis of the cancers of the male and female reproductive systems. It also highlights the structural and binding characteristics of the highly predominant receptors, namely, androgen, estrogen, progesterone, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors, which are overexpressed in these cancers and discusses various strategies to target them.
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35
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Lebreton S, Zurzolo C, Paladino S. Organization of GPI-anchored proteins at the cell surface and its physiopathological relevance. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 53:403-419. [PMID: 30040489 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2018.1485627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins (GPI-APs) are a class of proteins attached to the extracellular leaflet of the plasma membrane via a post-translational modification, the glycolipid anchor. The presence of both glycolipid anchor and protein portion confers them unique features. GPI-APs are expressed in all eukaryotes, from fungi to plants and animals. They display very diverse functions ranging from enzymatic activity, signaling, cell adhesion, cell wall metabolism, neuritogenesis, and immune response. Likewise other plasma membrane proteins, the spatio-temporal organization of GPI-APs is critical for their biological activities in physiological conditions. In this review, we will summarize the latest findings on plasma membrane organization of GPI-APs and the mechanism of its regulation in different cell types. We will also examine the involvement of specific GPI-APs namely the prion protein PrPC, the Folate Receptor alpha and the urokinase plasminogen activator receptor in human diseases focusing on neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Lebreton
- a Unité de Trafic Membranaire et Pathogénèse, Institut Pasteur , Paris , France
| | - Chiara Zurzolo
- a Unité de Trafic Membranaire et Pathogénèse, Institut Pasteur , Paris , France
| | - Simona Paladino
- b Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II , Napoli , Italy.,c CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate , Napoli , Italy
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36
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One-Carbon Metabolism: Biological Players in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19072092. [PMID: 30029471 PMCID: PMC6073728 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19072092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolism is deeply involved in cell behavior and homeostasis maintenance, with metabolites acting as molecular intermediates to modulate cellular functions. In particular, one-carbon metabolism is a key biochemical pathway necessary to provide carbon units required for critical processes, including nucleotide biosynthesis, epigenetic methylation, and cell redox-status regulation. It is, therefore, not surprising that alterations in this pathway may acquire fundamental importance in cancer onset and progression. Two of the major actors in one-carbon metabolism, folate and choline, play a key role in the pathobiology of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), the deadliest gynecological malignancy. EOC is characterized by a cholinic phenotype sustained via increased activity of choline kinase alpha, and via membrane overexpression of the alpha isoform of the folate receptor (FRα), both of which are known to contribute to generating regulatory signals that support EOC cell aggressiveness and proliferation. Here, we describe in detail the main biological processes associated with one-carbon metabolism, and the current knowledge about its role in EOC. Moreover, since the cholinic phenotype and FRα overexpression are unique properties of tumor cells, but not of normal cells, they can be considered attractive targets for the development of therapeutic approaches.
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37
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Kim M, Pyo S, Kang CH, Lee CO, Lee HK, Choi SU, Park CH. Folate receptor 1 (FOLR1) targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells for the treatment of gastric cancer. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198347. [PMID: 29874279 PMCID: PMC5991383 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is a malignancy that has a high mortality rate. Although progress has been made in the treatment of gastric cancer, many patients experience cancer recurrence and metastasis. Folate receptor 1 (FOLR1) is overexpressed on the cell surface in over one-third of gastric cancer patients, but rarely is expressed in normal tissue. This makes FOLR1 a potential target for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapy, although the function of FOLR1 has not been elucidated. CAR are engineered fusion receptor composed of an antigen recognition region and signaling domains. T cells expressing CAR have specific activation and cytotoxic effects against cancer cells containing the target antigen. In this study, we generated a CAR that targets FOLR1 composed of a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) of FOLR1 antibody and signaling domains consisting of CD28 and CD3ζ. Both FOLR1-CAR KHYG-1, a natural killer cell line, and FOLR1-CAR T cells recognized FOLR1-positive gastric cancer cells in a MHC-independent manner and induced secretion of various cytokines and caused cell death. Conclusively, this is the first study to demonstrate that CAR KHYG-1/T cells targeting FOLR1 are effective against FOLR1-positive gastric cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minsung Kim
- Bio & Drug Discovery Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon City, Kyunggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Suhkneung Pyo
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon City, Kyunggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Chung Hyo Kang
- Bio & Drug Discovery Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Chong Ock Lee
- Bio & Drug Discovery Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Heung Kyoung Lee
- Bio & Drug Discovery Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Un Choi
- Bio & Drug Discovery Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (SUC); (CHP)
| | - Chi Hoon Park
- Bio & Drug Discovery Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacology, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (SUC); (CHP)
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Jindal V, Arora E, Gupta S, Lal A, Masab M, Potdar R. Prospects of chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy in ovarian cancer. Med Oncol 2018; 35:70. [PMID: 29651744 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-018-1131-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite advances in various chemotherapy regimens, current therapeutic options are limited for ovarian cancer patients. Immunotherapy provides a promising and novel treatment option for ovarian cancer. Recently, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has shown promising results in hematological tumors and current research is going on in various solid tumors like ovarian cancer. CAR T cells are genetically engineered T cells with major histocompatibility complex-independent, tumor-specific, immune-mediated cytolytic actions against cancer cells. Initial studies of CAR T cell therapy have shown promising results in ovarian cancer, but there are some obstacles like impaired T cell trafficking, lack of antigenic targets, cytokine release syndrome and most important immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Optimization of design, improving tumor microenvironment and combinations with other therapies may help us in improving CAR T cell efficacy. In this review article, we highlight the current knowledge regarding CAR T cell therapy in ovarian cancer. We have discussed basic functioning of CAR T cells, their rationale and clinical outcome in ovarian cancer with limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Jindal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Vincent Hospital, 123 Summer Street, Worcester, 01608, USA.
| | - Ena Arora
- Department of Internal Medicine, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sorab Gupta
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Amos Lal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Vincent Hospital, 123 Summer Street, Worcester, 01608, USA
| | - Muhammad Masab
- Department of Internal Medicine, Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Rashmika Potdar
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, USA
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39
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Bonilla L, Oza A, Lheureux S. Emerging growth factor receptor antagonists for ovarian cancer treatment. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2018. [PMID: 29528256 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2018.1446942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy. EOC outcomes remain unsatisfactory despite aggressive surgical approach, disease chemo-sensitivity and recent introduction of agents targeting angiogenesis and tumour genome instability. Advances in EOC research have allowed for a tailored treatment approach and accelerated development of novel treatments strategies from bench to bed side, anticipated to improve patient outcomes. Areas covered: Comprehensive review of growth factor receptor antagonists for EOC treatment currently in different stages of development was performed. English peer-reviewed articles and abstracts were searched in MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase and major conferences. We focused on agents that antagonize growth factors promoting sustained proliferative signaling, angiogenesis and evasion of immune destruction blocking the receptor or its stimulating factors. Expert opinion: Receptor signaling has been well characterized for most cancer generating pathways. Growth receptor antagonists are represented by both high receptor affinity monoclonal antibodies as well as tyrosine kinase inhibitors; both are especially effective when a related predictive biomarker of response is identified. Therefore, along with the promising development of novel receptor antagonists or modulators in EOC treatment, targeting essential growth pathways in the tumour and associated microenvironment, is fundamental for biomarker discovery and towards achieving significant improvements in response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Bonilla
- a Princess Margaret Cancer Centre , Toronto , Canada
| | - Amit Oza
- a Princess Margaret Cancer Centre , Toronto , Canada
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40
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Folate receptor α is associated with poor clinicopathological perspectives in breast carcinoma. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2018; 25:71-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pathophys.2018.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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41
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Huang MJ, Zhang W, Wang Q, Yang ZJ, Liao SB, Li L. FOLR1 increases sensitivity to cisplatin treatment in ovarian cancer cells. J Ovarian Res 2018. [PMID: 29433550 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0387-y]+[] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether there is a mechanistic link between FOLR1 and response to cisplatin has not been extensively examined. In this study, we determine the expression of FOLR1 in ovarian cancer and examine if FOLR1 levels influence response to cisplatin. RESULTS (1) FOLR1 protein expression was lowest in normal ovarian tissue, higher in benign ovarian tumors, and highest in malignant tumors (P < 0.01). (2) FOLR1 expression was decreased in platinum drug-resistant ovarian tumors compared to sensitive tumors (P < 0.01). Consistent with this, FOLR1 expression in tumors progressing following cisplatin treatment was lower than levels in tumors in remission (P < 0.01). (3) FOLR1 was successfully overexpressed at both the mRNA and protein levels following transfection in SKOV3 cells. (4) SKOV3 cells with FOLR1 overexpression were the most sensitive to cisplatin treatment (IC50 = 3.60 μg/ml) and exhibited the highest inhibition rates in the presence of the drug (P < 0.05). (5) The rate of apoptosis of SKOV3 cells increased with cisplatin treatment in a dose- and time-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Cisplatin also induced S phase arrest in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Apoptosis and S phase proportion were significantly altered by FOLR1 overexpression (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION FOLR1 may be a useful biomarker for ovarian cancer, and it may be useful as a therapeutic application to improve sensitivity to cisplatin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Ju Huang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.,Department of Gynecology, Chongqing Three Gorges Central Hospital, Wanzhou District of Chongqing, 404000, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Yang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Sheng-Bin Liao
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
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42
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Huang MJ, Zhang W, Wang Q, Yang ZJ, Liao SB, Li L. FOLR1 increases sensitivity to cisplatin treatment in ovarian cancer cells. J Ovarian Res 2018. [PMID: 29433550 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0387-y] [] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether there is a mechanistic link between FOLR1 and response to cisplatin has not been extensively examined. In this study, we determine the expression of FOLR1 in ovarian cancer and examine if FOLR1 levels influence response to cisplatin. RESULTS (1) FOLR1 protein expression was lowest in normal ovarian tissue, higher in benign ovarian tumors, and highest in malignant tumors (P < 0.01). (2) FOLR1 expression was decreased in platinum drug-resistant ovarian tumors compared to sensitive tumors (P < 0.01). Consistent with this, FOLR1 expression in tumors progressing following cisplatin treatment was lower than levels in tumors in remission (P < 0.01). (3) FOLR1 was successfully overexpressed at both the mRNA and protein levels following transfection in SKOV3 cells. (4) SKOV3 cells with FOLR1 overexpression were the most sensitive to cisplatin treatment (IC50 = 3.60 μg/ml) and exhibited the highest inhibition rates in the presence of the drug (P < 0.05). (5) The rate of apoptosis of SKOV3 cells increased with cisplatin treatment in a dose- and time-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Cisplatin also induced S phase arrest in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Apoptosis and S phase proportion were significantly altered by FOLR1 overexpression (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION FOLR1 may be a useful biomarker for ovarian cancer, and it may be useful as a therapeutic application to improve sensitivity to cisplatin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Ju Huang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.,Department of Gynecology, Chongqing Three Gorges Central Hospital, Wanzhou District of Chongqing, 404000, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Yang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Sheng-Bin Liao
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
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43
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Huang MJ, Zhang W, Wang Q, Yang ZJ, Liao SB, Li L. FOLR1 increases sensitivity to cisplatin treatment in ovarian cancer cells. J Ovarian Res 2018; 11:15. [PMID: 29433550 PMCID: PMC5809985 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0387-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Whether there is a mechanistic link between FOLR1 and response to cisplatin has not been extensively examined. In this study, we determine the expression of FOLR1 in ovarian cancer and examine if FOLR1 levels influence response to cisplatin. Results (1) FOLR1 protein expression was lowest in normal ovarian tissue, higher in benign ovarian tumors, and highest in malignant tumors (P < 0.01). (2) FOLR1 expression was decreased in platinum drug-resistant ovarian tumors compared to sensitive tumors (P < 0.01). Consistent with this, FOLR1 expression in tumors progressing following cisplatin treatment was lower than levels in tumors in remission (P < 0.01). (3) FOLR1 was successfully overexpressed at both the mRNA and protein levels following transfection in SKOV3 cells. (4) SKOV3 cells with FOLR1 overexpression were the most sensitive to cisplatin treatment (IC50 = 3.60 μg/ml) and exhibited the highest inhibition rates in the presence of the drug (P < 0.05). (5) The rate of apoptosis of SKOV3 cells increased with cisplatin treatment in a dose- and time-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Cisplatin also induced S phase arrest in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Apoptosis and S phase proportion were significantly altered by FOLR1 overexpression (P < 0.05). Conclusion FOLR1 may be a useful biomarker for ovarian cancer, and it may be useful as a therapeutic application to improve sensitivity to cisplatin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Ju Huang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.,Department of Gynecology, Chongqing Three Gorges Central Hospital, Wanzhou District of Chongqing, 404000, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Yang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Sheng-Bin Liao
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
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44
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Cheung A, Bax HJ, Josephs DH, Ilieva KM, Pellizzari G, Opzoomer J, Bloomfield J, Fittall M, Grigoriadis A, Figini M, Canevari S, Spicer JF, Tutt AN, Karagiannis SN. Targeting folate receptor alpha for cancer treatment. Oncotarget 2018; 7:52553-52574. [PMID: 27248175 PMCID: PMC5239573 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 271] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Promising targeted treatments and immunotherapy strategies in oncology and advancements in our understanding of molecular pathways that underpin cancer development have reignited interest in the tumor-associated antigen Folate Receptor alpha (FRα). FRα is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored membrane protein. Its overexpression in tumors such as ovarian, breast and lung cancers, low and restricted distribution in normal tissues, alongside emerging insights into tumor-promoting functions and association of expression with patient prognosis, together render FRα an attractive therapeutic target. In this review, we summarize the role of FRα in cancer development, we consider FRα as a potential diagnostic and prognostic tool, and we discuss different targeted treatment approaches with a specific focus on monoclonal antibodies. Renewed attention to FRα may point to novel individualized treatment approaches to improve the clinical management of patient groups that do not adequately benefit from current conventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Cheung
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Division of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospitals and King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Heather J Bax
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Division of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospitals and King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Division of Cancer Studies, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Debra H Josephs
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Division of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospitals and King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Division of Cancer Studies, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kristina M Ilieva
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Division of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospitals and King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Pellizzari
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Division of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospitals and King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - James Opzoomer
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Division of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospitals and King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jacinta Bloomfield
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Division of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospitals and King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Fittall
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Division of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospitals and King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anita Grigoriadis
- Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mariangela Figini
- Unit of Molecular Therapies, Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvana Canevari
- Unit of Molecular Therapies, Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - James F Spicer
- Division of Cancer Studies, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew N Tutt
- Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sophia N Karagiannis
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Division of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospitals and King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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45
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Liang X, Luo M, Wei XW, Ma CC, Yang YH, Shao B, Liu YT, Liu T, Ren J, Liu L, He ZY, Wei YQ. A folate receptor-targeted lipoplex delivering interleukin-15 gene for colon cancer immunotherapy. Oncotarget 2018; 7:52207-52217. [PMID: 27438147 PMCID: PMC5239545 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15 has been implicated as a promising cytokine for cancer immunotherapy, while folate receptor α (FRα) has been shown to be a potentially useful target for colon cancer therapy. Herein, we developed F-PLP/pIL15, a FRα-targeted lipoplex loading recombinant interleukin-15 plasmid (pIL15) and studied its antitumor effects in vivo using a CT26 colon cancer mouse model. Compared with control (normal saline) treatment, F-PLP/pIL15 significantly suppressed tumor growth in regard to tumor weight (P < 0.001) and reduced tumor nodule formation (P < 0.001). Moreover, when compared to other lipoplex-treated mice, F-PLP/pIL15-treated mice showed higher levels of IL15 secreted in the serum (P < 0.001) and ascites (P < 0.01). These results suggested that the targeted delivery of IL15 gene might be associated with its in vivo antitumor effects, which include inducing tumor cell apoptosis, inhibiting tumor proliferation and promoting the activation of immune cells such as T cells and natural killer cells. Furthermore, hematoxylin and eosin staining of vital organs following F-PLP/pIL15 treatment showed no detectable toxicity, thus indicating that intraperitoneal administration may be a viable route of delivery. Overall, these results suggest that F-PLP/pIL15 may serve as a potential targeting preparation for colon cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Min Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xia-Wei Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Cui-Cui Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yu-Han Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Bin Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yan-Tong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Ting Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Jun Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Zhi-Yao He
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yu-Quan Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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46
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Ginter PS, McIntire PJ, Cui X, Irshaid L, Liu Y, Chen Z, Shin SJ. Folate Receptor Alpha Expression Is Associated With Increased Risk of Recurrence in Triple-negative Breast Cancer. Clin Breast Cancer 2017; 17:544-549. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2017.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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47
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Ashkavand Z, O'Flanagan C, Hennig M, Du X, Hursting SD, Krupenko SA. Metabolic Reprogramming by Folate Restriction Leads to a Less Aggressive Cancer Phenotype. Mol Cancer Res 2017; 15:189-200. [PMID: 28108628 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-16-0317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 10/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Folate coenzymes are involved in biochemical reactions of one-carbon transfer, and deficiency of this vitamin impairs cellular proliferation, migration, and survival in many cell types. Here, the effect of folate restriction on mammary cancer was evaluated using three distinct breast cancer subtypes differing in their aggressiveness and metastatic potential: noninvasive basal-like (E-Wnt), invasive but minimally metastatic claudin-low (M-Wnt), and highly metastatic claudin-low (metM-Wntliver) cell lines, each derived from the same pool of MMTV-Wnt-1 transgenic mouse mammary tumors. NMR-based metabolomics was used to quantitate 41 major metabolites in cells grown in folate-free medium versus standard medium. Each cell line demonstrated metabolic reprogramming when grown in folate-free medium. In E-Wnt, M-Wnt, and metM-Wntliver cells, 12, 29, and 25 metabolites, respectively, were significantly different (P < 0.05 and at least 1.5-fold change). The levels of eight metabolites (aspartate, ATP, creatine, creatine phosphate, formate, serine, taurine and β-alanine) were changed in each folate-restricted cell line. Increased glucose, decreased lactate, and inhibition of glycolysis, cellular proliferation, migration, and invasion occurred in M-Wnt and metM-Wntliver cells (but not E-Wnt cells) grown in folate-free versus standard medium. These effects were accompanied by altered levels of several folate-metabolizing enzymes, indicating that the observed metabolic reprogramming may result from both decreased folate availability and altered folate metabolism. These findings reveal that folate restriction results in metabolic and bioenergetic changes and a less aggressive cancer cell phenotype. IMPLICATIONS Metabolic reprogramming driven by folate restriction represents a therapeutic target for reducing the burden of breast cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 15(2); 189-200. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Ashkavand
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina
| | - Ciara O'Flanagan
- The Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Mirko Hennig
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina.,The Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Xiuxia Du
- The Department of Bioinformatics & Genomics, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Stephen D Hursting
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina.,The Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Sergey A Krupenko
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina. .,The Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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48
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Heterologous expression of Homo sapiens alpha-folate receptors in E. coli by fusion with a trigger factor for enhanced solubilization. Protein Expr Purif 2017; 142:75-80. [PMID: 28988145 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The role of Alpha folate receptors (FRα) in folate metabolism and cancer development has been extensively studied. The reason for this is not only associated to its direct relation to disease development but also to its potential use as a highly sensitive and specific biomarker for cancers therapies. Over the recent years, the crystal structures of human FRα complexed with different ligands were described relying on an expensive and time-consuming production process. Here, we constructed an efficient system for the expression and purification of a human FRα in E. coli. Unlike a conventional expression method we used a specific protein fusion expressing the target protein together with a trigger factor (TF). This factor is a chaperone from E. coli that assists the correct folding of newly synthesized polypeptide chains. The activity of rTFFRα was comparable to glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchored proteins extracted from HeLa tumor cells. Our work demonstrates a straightforward and versatile approach for the production of active human FRα by heterologous expression; this approach further enhances the development of inhibition studies and biotechnological applications. The purified product was then conjugated to liposomes, obtaining a 35% higher signal from densitometry measurement on the immunoblotting assay in the contruct containing the Ni-NTA tag, as a mimesis of an exosome, which is of vital importance to nanotherapeutic techniques associated to treatment and diagnosis of tumors.
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49
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Is macrocytosis a potential biomarker of the efficacy of dose-dense paclitaxel–carboplatin combination therapy in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer? Anticancer Drugs 2017; 28:922-927. [DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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50
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Chaudhari SN, Mukherjee M, Vagasi AS, Bi G, Rahman MM, Nguyen CQ, Paul L, Selhub J, Kipreos ET. Bacterial Folates Provide an Exogenous Signal for C. elegans Germline Stem Cell Proliferation. Dev Cell 2017; 38:33-46. [PMID: 27404357 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2016.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Here we describe an in vitro primary culture system for Caenorhabditis elegans germline stem cells. This culture system was used to identify a bacterial folate as a positive regulator of germ cell proliferation. Folates are a family of B-complex vitamins that function in one-carbon metabolism to allow the de novo synthesis of amino acids and nucleosides. We show that germ cell proliferation is stimulated by the folate 10-formyl-tetrahydrofolate-Glun both in vitro and in animals. Other folates that can act as vitamins to rescue folate deficiency lack this germ cell stimulatory activity. The bacterial folate precursor dihydropteroate also promotes germ cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo, despite its inability to promote one-carbon metabolism. The folate receptor homolog FOLR-1 is required for the stimulation of germ cells by 10-formyl-tetrahydrofolate-Glun and dihydropteroate. This work defines a folate and folate-related compound as exogenous signals to modulate germ cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snehal N Chaudhari
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | | | - Alexandra S Vagasi
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Gaofeng Bi
- Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Mohammad M Rahman
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Christine Q Nguyen
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Ligi Paul
- Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Jacob Selhub
- Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Edward T Kipreos
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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