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Macheroni C, Leite GGF, Souza DS, Vicente CM, Lacerda JT, Moraes MN, Juliano MA, Porto CS. Activation of estrogen receptor induces differential proteomic responses mainly involving migration, invasion, and tumor development pathways in human testicular embryonal carcinoma NT2/D1 cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 237:106443. [PMID: 38092129 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106443] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The aims of the present study were to investigate the global changes on proteome of human testicular embryonal carcinoma NT2/D1 cells treated with 17β-estradiol (E2), and the effects of this hormone on migration, invasion, and colony formation of these cells. A quantitative proteomic analysis identified the presence of 1230 proteins in both E2-treated and control cells. The analysis revealed 75 differentially abundant proteins (DAPs), out of which 43 proteins displayed a higher abundance and, 30 proteins showed a lower abundance in E2-treated NT2/D1 cancer cells. Functional analysis using IPA highlighted some activation processes such as migration, invasion, metastasis, and tumor growth. Interestingly, the treatment with E2 and ERβ-selective agonist DPN increased the migration of NT2/D1 cells. On the other hand, ERα-selective agonist PPT did not modify cell migration, indicating that ERβ is the upstream receptor involved in this process. The activation of ERβ increased the invasion and anchorage‑independent growth of NT2/D1 cells more intensely than ERα. ERα and ERβ may play overlapping roles on invasion and colony formation of these cells. Further studies are required to clarify the mechanism underlying these effects. The molecular mechanisms revealed by proteomic and functional studies might also guide the development of potential targets for a better understanding of the biology of these cells and novel treatments for non-seminoma in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Macheroni
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Giuseppe Gianini Figueirêdo Leite
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Deborah Simão Souza
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Carolina Meloni Vicente
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04039-032, Brazil
| | - José Thalles Lacerda
- Department of Physiology, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão 277, Butantã, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Maria Nathália Moraes
- Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Av. Conceição 515, Diadema, São Paulo, SP, 09920-000, Brazil
| | - Maria Aparecida Juliano
- Department of Biophysics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Três de Maio, 100, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04044-020, Brazil
| | - Catarina Segreti Porto
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04039-032, Brazil.
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Burlibasa L, Nicu AT, Chifiriuc MC, Medar C, Petrescu A, Jinga V, Stoica I. H3 histone methylation landscape in male urogenital cancers: from molecular mechanisms to epigenetic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1181764. [PMID: 37228649 PMCID: PMC10203431 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1181764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last decades, male urogenital cancers (including prostate, renal, bladder and testicular cancers) have become one of the most frequently encountered malignancies affecting all ages. While their great variety has promoted the development of various diagnosis, treatment and monitoring strategies, some aspects such as the common involvement of epigenetic mechanisms are still not elucidated. Epigenetic processes have come into the spotlight in the past years as important players in the initiation and progression of tumors, leading to a plethora of studies highlighting their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis, staging, prognosis, and even as therapeutic targets. Thus, fostering research on the various epigenetic mechanisms and their roles in cancer remains a priority for the scientific community. This review focuses on one of the main epigenetic mechanisms, namely, the methylation of the histone H3 at various sites and its involvement in male urogenital cancers. This histone modification presents a great interest due to its modulatory effect on gene expression, leading either to activation (e.g., H3K4me3, H3K36me3) or repression (e.g., H3K27me3, H3K9me3). In the last few years, growing evidence has demonstrated the aberrant expression of enzymes that methylate/demethylate histone H3 in cancer and inflammatory diseases, that might contribute to the initiation and progression of such disorders. We highlight how these particular epigenetic modifications are emerging as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers or targets for the treatment of urogenital cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
- Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cosmin Medar
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Bucharest, Romania
- Clinical Hospital “Prof. dr Theodor Burghele”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Amelia Petrescu
- Clinical Hospital “Prof. dr Theodor Burghele”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Viorel Jinga
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Bucharest, Romania
- Clinical Hospital “Prof. dr Theodor Burghele”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ileana Stoica
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
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Radhakrishnan K, Luu M, Iaria J, Sutherland JM, McLaughlin EA, Zhu HJ, Loveland KL. Activin and BMP Signalling in Human Testicular Cancer Cell Lines, and a Role for the Nucleocytoplasmic Transport Protein Importin-5 in their Crosstalk. Cells 2023; 12:cells12071000. [PMID: 37048077 PMCID: PMC10093041 DOI: 10.3390/cells12071000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the most common malignancy in young men. Originating from foetal testicular germ cells that fail to differentiate correctly, TGCTs appear after puberty as germ cell neoplasia in situ cells that transform through unknown mechanisms into distinct seminoma and non-seminoma tumour types. A balance between activin and BMP signalling may influence TGCT emergence and progression, and we investigated this using human cell line models of seminoma (TCam-2) and non-seminoma (NT2/D1). Activin A- and BMP4-regulated transcripts measured at 6 h post-treatment by RNA-sequencing revealed fewer altered transcripts in TCam-2 cells but a greater responsiveness to activin A, while BMP4 altered more transcripts in NT2/D1 cells. Activin significantly elevated transcripts linked to pluripotency, cancer, TGF-β, Notch, p53, and Hippo signalling in both lines, whereas BMP4 altered TGF-β, pluripotency, Hippo and Wnt signalling components. Dose-dependent antagonism of BMP4 signalling by activin A in TCam-2 cells demonstrated signalling crosstalk between these two TGF-β superfamily arms. Levels of the nuclear transport protein, IPO5, implicated in BMP4 and WNT signalling, are highly regulated in the foetal mouse germline. IPO5 knockdown in TCam-2 cells using siRNA blunted BMP4-induced transcript changes, indicating that IPO5 levels could determine TGF-β signalling pathway outcomes in TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthika Radhakrishnan
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Kanooka Grove, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Correspondence: (K.R.); (K.L.L.)
| | - Michael Luu
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Kanooka Grove, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Josie Iaria
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia
| | - Jessie M. Sutherland
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2305, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Eileen A. McLaughlin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2305, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Gwynneville, NSW 2500, Australia
| | - Hong-Jian Zhu
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia
| | - Kate L. Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Kanooka Grove, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Correspondence: (K.R.); (K.L.L.)
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Schulz B, Schumacher V, Ngezahayo A, Maier-Begandt D, Schadzek N, Wilhelm J, Weidner W, Pilatz A, Fietz D, Kliesch S, Schnepel N, Hambruch N, Rode K, Langeheine M, Brehm R. Analysis of connexin 43, connexin 45 and N-cadherin in the human sertoli cell line FS1 and the human seminoma-like cell line TCam-2 in comparison with human testicular biopsies. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:232. [PMID: 36899312 PMCID: PMC10007848 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-10696-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Germ cell tumors are relatively common in young men. They derive from a non-invasive precursor, called germ cell neoplasia in situ, but the exact pathogenesis is still unknown. Thus, further understanding provides the basis for diagnostics, prognostics and therapy and is therefore paramount. A recently developed cell culture model consisting of human FS1 Sertoli cells and human TCam-2 seminoma-like cells offers new opportunities for research on seminoma. Since junctional proteins within the seminiferous epithelium are involved in cell organization, differentiation and proliferation, they represent interesting candidates for investigations on intercellular adhesion and communication in context with neoplastic progression. METHODS FS1 and TCam-2 cells were characterized regarding gap-junction-related connexin 43 (Cx43) and connexin 45 (Cx45), and adherens-junction-related N-cadherin using microarray, PCR, Western blot, immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence. Results were compared to human testicular biopsies at different stages of seminoma development via immunohistochemistry to confirm the cell lines' representativeness. Furthermore, dye-transfer measurements were performed to investigate functional cell coupling. RESULTS Cx43, Cx45 and N-cadherin mRNA and protein were generally detectable in both cell lines via qualitative RT-PCR and Western blot. Immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence revealed a mainly membrane-associated expression of N-cadherin in both cell lines, but gene expression values were higher in FS1 cells. Cx43 expression was also membrane-associated in FS1 cells but barely detectable in TCam-2 cells. Accordingly, a high gene expression value of Cx43 was measured for FS1 and a low value for TCam-2 cells. Cx45 was primary located in the cytoplasm of FS1 and TCam-2 cells and revealed similar low to medium gene expression values in both cell lines. Overall, results were comparable with corresponding biopsies. Additionally, both FS1 and TCam-2 cells showed dye diffusion into neighboring cells. CONCLUSION The junctional proteins Cx43, Cx45 and N-cadherin are expressed in FS1 and TCam-2 cells at mRNA and/or protein level in different amounts and localizations, and cells of both lines are functionally coupled among each other. Concerning the expression of these junctional proteins, FS1 and TCam-2 cells are largely representative for Sertoli and seminoma cells, respectively. Thus, these results provide the basis for further coculture experiments evaluating the role of junctional proteins in context with seminoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birte Schulz
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Valérie Schumacher
- Department of Urology and Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Surgery and Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anaclet Ngezahayo
- Department of Cell Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany.,Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Daniela Maier-Begandt
- Department of Cell Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nadine Schadzek
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jochen Wilhelm
- Institute for Lung Health, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,The Cardiopulmonary Institute, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Weidner
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Daniela Fietz
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Nadine Schnepel
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nina Hambruch
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kristina Rode
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marion Langeheine
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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von Eyben FE, Kristiansen K, Kapp DS, Hu R, Preda O, Nogales FF. Epigenetic Regulation of Driver Genes in Testicular Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044148. [PMID: 36835562 PMCID: PMC9966837 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044148] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In testicular germ cell tumor type II (TGCT), a seminoma subtype expresses an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) panel with four upregulated genes, OCT4/POU5F1, SOX17, KLF4, and MYC, and embryonal carcinoma (EC) has four upregulated genes, OCT4/POU5F1, SOX2, LIN28, and NANOG. The EC panel can reprogram cells into iPSC, and both iPSC and EC can differentiate into teratoma. This review summarizes the literature on epigenetic regulation of the genes. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as methylations of cytosines on the DNA string and methylations and acetylations of histone 3 lysines, regulate expression of these driver genes between the TGCT subtypes. In TGCT, the driver genes contribute to well-known clinical characteristics and the driver genes are also important for aggressive subtypes of many other malignancies. In conclusion, epigenetic regulation of the driver genes are important for TGCT and for oncology in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Finn E. von Eyben
- Center for Tobacco Control Research, Birkevej 17, 5230 Odense, Denmark
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-66145862
| | - Karsten Kristiansen
- Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biomedicine, August Krogh Building Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 13, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- BGI-Research, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518120, China
- Institute of Metagenomics, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao 166555, China
| | - Daniel S. Kapp
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Rong Hu
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI 53792, USA
| | - Ovidiu Preda
- Department of Pathology, San Cecilio University Hospital, 18071 Granada, CP, Spain
| | - Francisco F. Nogales
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University Granada, 18071 Granada, CP, Spain
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Barrachina F, de la Iglesia A, Jodar M, Soler-Ventura A, Mallofré C, Rodriguez-Carunchio L, Goudarzi A, Corral JM, Ballescà JL, Castillo J, Oliva R. Histone H4 acetylation is dysregulated in active seminiferous tubules adjacent to testicular tumours. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1712-1726. [PMID: 35678707 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac130] [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] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is histone H4 acetylation (H4ac) altered in the seminiferous tubules of patients affected by testicular tumours? SUMMARY ANSWER A considerable dysregulation of H4ac was detected in the cells of the seminiferous tubules adjacent to testicular tumours of different aetiology and prior to any treatment, while no comparable alterations were observed in patients with disrupted spermatogenesis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Altered H4ac levels have been associated with a variety of testicular pathological conditions. However, no information has been available regarding potential alterations in the spermatogenic cells adjacent to the neoplasia in testicular tumour patients. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A retrospective analysis using testicular sections from 33 men aged between 21 and 74 years old was performed. Three study groups were defined and subjected to double-blind evaluation: a control group with normal spermatogenesis (n = 6), patients with testicular tumours (n = 18) and patients with spermatogenic impairments (n = 8). One additional sample with normal spermatogenesis was used as a technical internal control in all evaluations. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Immunohistochemistry against H4ac and, when needed, Placental-like alkaline phosphatase and CD117, was performed on testicular sections. The H4ac H-score, based on the percentage of detection and signal intensity, was used as the scoring method for statistical analyses. Protein expression data from the Human Protein Atlas were used to compare the expression levels of predicted secreted proteins from testicular tumours with those present in the normal tissue. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We revealed, for the first time, a dramatic disruption of the spermatogenic H4ac pattern in unaffected seminiferous tubule cells from different testicular tumour patients prior to any antineoplastic treatment, as compared to controls (P < 0.05). Since no similar alterations were associated with spermatogenic impairments and the in silico analysis revealed proteins potentially secreted by the tumour to the testicular stroma, we propose a potential paracrine effect of the neoplasia as a mechanistic hypothesis for this dysregulation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Statistical analyses were not performed on the hypospermatogenesis and Leydig cell tumour groups due to limited availability of samples. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing an epigenetic alteration in cells from active seminiferous tubules adjacent to tumour cells in testicular tumour patients. Our results suggest that, despite presenting spermatogenic activity, the global epigenetic dysregulation found in the testicular tumour patients could lead to molecular alterations of the male germ cells. Since testicular tumours are normally diagnosed in men at reproductive age, H4ac alterations might have an impact when these testicular tumour patients express a desire for fatherhood. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the European Union Marie Curie European Training Network actions and by grants to R.O. from the 'Ministerio de Economía y Competividad (Spain)' (fondos FEDER 'una manera de hacer Europa', PI13/00699, PI16/00346 and PI20/00936) and from EU-FP7-PEOPLE-2011-ITN289880. J.C. was supported by the Sara Borrell Postdoctoral Fellowship, Acción Estratégica en Salud, CD17/00109. J.C. is a Serra Húnter fellow (Universitat de Barcelona, Generalitat de Catalunya). F.B. has received grants from the Ministerio de Educación, Cultura y Deporte para la Formación de Profesorado Universitario (Spain) (FPU15/02306). A.d.l.I. is supported by a fellowship of the Ministerio de Economía, Industria y Competitividad (Spain) (PFIS, FI17/00224). M.J. is supported by the Government of Catalonia (Generalitat de Catalunya, pla estratègic de recerca i innovació en salut, PERIS 2016-2020, SLT002/16/00337). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferran Barrachina
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto de la Iglesia
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Jodar
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ada Soler-Ventura
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carme Mallofré
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Leonardo Rodriguez-Carunchio
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Afsaneh Goudarzi
- CNRS UMR 5309, INSERM U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
| | - Juan Manuel Corral
- Department of Urology, IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Lluís Ballescà
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judit Castillo
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
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7
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Zhang R, Zhang D, Yang X, Zhang D, Li Q, Wang C, Yang X, Guo H, Xiong Y. CpG methylation of the GPX3 promoter in patients with Kashin-Beck Disease potentially promotes chondrocyte apoptosis. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2022; 71:126943. [PMID: 35176576 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.126943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the methylation levels of CpGs in the GPX3 promoter region and explore their potential effects on the apoptosis of chondrocytes. METHODS Blood specimens were collected from 32 participants; 16 KBD patients and 16 healthy subjects. Twenty-five CpGs in the promoter region of GPX3 were identified and detected by MALDI-TOF-MS. Methylation levels of CpGs were compared between KBD patients and healthy subjects as well as among the KBD patients with different degrees. C28/I2 human chondrocytes were treated with tBHP and Na2SeO3. Apoptosis in chondrocytes was examined under a fluorescence microscope. RESULTS The methylation levels of GPX3-1_CpG_11 and GPX3-1_CpG_16 in KBD patients were significantly higher than those of healthy subjects (P < 0.05). The methylation levels of the other CpGs were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). The methylation level of GPX3-1_CpG_24 in KBD patients was significantly higher than those of healthy subjects (P < 0.05). MSP-PCR analysis indicated that the methylation rate of KBD group (9.41%) was significantly higher than that of healthy subjects (1.18%), and that GPX3 DNA methylation increased the risk of acquiring KBD 8 fold (OR = 8.000, 95% CI: 1.023-62.580); The mRNA expression of GPX3 in whole blood of KBD patients was lower than that of healthy subjects (P<0.05); Compared with the control group, GPX3, GPX1 and GPX4 mRNA level of the tertbutyl hydroperoxide injury group decreased significantly (P < 0.05), after supplementation with Na2SeO3. The rate of chondrocytes apoptosis was decreased with the increasing of GPX3 and GPX4 mRNA levels (P<0.05) and GPX3 mRNA showed a similar trend without statistically significant (P>0.05). CONCLUSION The methylation patterns of CpGs in GPX3 varied in KBD patients. The experiments indicated that the increased methylation of CpGs within the GPX3 promoter may down-regulate the expression of GPX3, thereby reducing the antioxidant function of GPX3 and promoting chondrocyte apoptosis, both of which accelerates the occurrence of KBD. We therefore propose a new understanding of GPX3's potential epigenetic and genetic mechanisms that contribute to KBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongqiang Zhang
- School of Public Health, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China; Institute of Endemic Diseases and Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Institute of Endemic Diseases and Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Xiaoli Yang
- Institute of Endemic Diseases and Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Institute of Endemic Diseases and Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Institute of Endemic Diseases and Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Institute of Endemic Diseases and Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Xuena Yang
- Institute of Endemic Diseases and Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Hao Guo
- Institute of Endemic Diseases and Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Yongmin Xiong
- Institute of Endemic Diseases and Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.
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8
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Goebel H, Koeditz B, Huerta M, Kameri E, Nestler T, Kamphausen T, Friemann J, Hamdorf M, Ohrmann T, Koehler P, Cornely OA, Montesinos-Rongen M, Nicol D, Schorle H, Boor P, Quaas A, Pallasch C, Heidenreich A, von Brandenstein M. COVID-19 Infection Induce miR-371a-3p Upregulation Resulting in Influence on Male Fertility. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040858. [PMID: 35453608 PMCID: PMC9033010 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, the first case of COVID-19 was reported and since then several groups have already published that the virus can be present in the testis. To study the influence of SARS-CoV-2 which cause a dysregulation of the androgen receptor (AR) level, thereby leading to fertility problems and inducing germ cell testicular changes in patients after the infection. Formalin-Fixed-Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) testicular samples from patients who died with or as a result of COVID-19 (n = 32) with controls (n = 6), inflammatory changes (n = 9), seminoma with/without metastasis (n = 11) compared with healthy biopsy samples (n = 3) were analyzed and compared via qRT-PCR for the expression of miR-371a-3p. An immunohistochemical analysis (IHC) and ELISA were performed in order to highlight the miR-371a-3p targeting the AR. Serum samples of patients with mild or severe COVID-19 symptoms (n = 34) were analyzed for miR-371a-3p expression. In 70% of the analyzed postmortem testicular tissue samples, a significant upregulation of the miR-371a-3p was detected, and 75% of the samples showed a reduced spermatogenesis. In serum samples, the upregulation of the miR-371a-3p was also detectable. The upregulation of the miR-371a-3p is responsible for the downregulation of the AR in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients, resulting in decreased spermatogenesis. Since the dysregulation of the AR is associated with infertility, further studies have to confirm if the identified dysregulation is regressive after a declining infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heike Goebel
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (H.G.); (A.Q.)
| | - Barbara Koeditz
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Manuel Huerta
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Ersen Kameri
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Tim Nestler
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Thomas Kamphausen
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Melatengürtel 60/62, 50823 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Johannes Friemann
- Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Paulmannshöher Straße 14, 58515 Lüdenscheid, Germany;
| | - Matthias Hamdorf
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany;
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
| | - Timo Ohrmann
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Philipp Koehler
- Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (P.K.); (O.A.C.); (C.P.)
- Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Chair Translational Research, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Oliver A. Cornely
- Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (P.K.); (O.A.C.); (C.P.)
- Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Chair Translational Research, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Köln), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50935 Cologne, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Montesinos-Rongen
- Department of Neuropathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany;
| | - David Nicol
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6JJ, UK;
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Bonn Clinics, University of Bonn, 53113 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Peter Boor
- Department of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52062 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Alexander Quaas
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (H.G.); (A.Q.)
| | - Christian Pallasch
- Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (P.K.); (O.A.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Axel Heidenreich
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
- Department of Urology, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Melanie von Brandenstein
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
- Correspondence:
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9
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Francolini G, Trodella LE, Marvaso G, Matrone F, Nicosia L, Timon G, Ognibene L, Vinciguerra A, Franzese C, Borghetti P, Arcangeli S. Radiotherapy role in non-seminomatous germ cell tumors, radiobiological and technical issues of an unexplored scenario. Int J Clin Oncol 2021; 26:1777-1783. [PMID: 34273014 DOI: 10.1007/s10147-021-01989-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Historically, non-seminomatous germ cell tumor (NSGCT) has been considered a radio-resistant disease, excluding radiotherapy (RT) from curative strategies. However, case series exploring the use of radiation treatment in this setting are often outdated, and prospective ongoing studies testing new radiotherapeutic approaches in NSGCT are lacking. Considering that tremendous advances in radiotherapy technology have enabled improved precision in RT delivery as well as dose escalation while decreasing treatment-related morbidity, we overviewed the currently available literature to explore the radiobiological basis, the technical issues, and potential strategies for implementation of RT in the management of this clinical entity. The purpose of the present overview is to provide insight for future research in this unexplored scenario. In summary, the biological rationale for RT use and potential implementation with systemic therapies exist, especially considering the advantage of new technologies, which were unavailable in the era of early literature reports. The NSGCT radioresistance paradigm could be based only on the fact that effective treatment schedules were simply undeliverable with older RT techniques due to toxicity issues, but the availability of actual techniques may prompt further exploration to offer treatment alternatives to these patients. Ongoing trials on this issue are lacking, but potential areas of research are platinum-refractory disease and consolidation therapy for residual masses after PST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Francolini
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Viale Morgagni 85, 50134, Florence, Italy.
| | - Luca Eolo Trodella
- Radiation Oncology, Campus Bio-Medico University, Via A. del Portillo, 21, 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Marvaso
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Matrone
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano CRO-IRCCS, Aviano, Pordenone, Italy
| | - Luca Nicosia
- Advanced Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Care Center, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, via Don Sempreboni 5, 37034, Verona, Negrar, Italy
| | - Giorgia Timon
- Radioterapia Oncologica, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Lucia Ognibene
- Radiotherapy Unit, San Gaetano Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Annamaria Vinciguerra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, "SS Annunziata" Hospital, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Via dei Vestini, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Ciro Franzese
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Radiotherapy and Radiosurgery Department -Humanitas Research Hospital IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Borghetti
- Radiation Oncology Department, University and Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Arcangeli
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine and Surgery-University of Milan Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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10
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Epithelium-specific ETS transcription factor-1 regulates NANOG expression and inhibits NANOG-induced proliferation of human embryonic carcinoma cells. Biochimie 2021; 186:33-42. [PMID: 33865902 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The epithelium-specific ETS transcription factor-1 (ESE-1) plays multiple roles in pathogenesis and normal development of epithelial tissues. NANOG, a key mediator of stem cell self-renewal and pluripotency, is also expressed in various cancers and pluripotent cells. In this study, we investigated how ESE-1 influences NANOG expression and NANOG-induced proliferation in human germ cell-derived embryonic carcinoma NCCIT cells. Endogenous ESE-1 expression in NCCIT cells significantly increased during differentiation, whereas NANOG expression decreased. In addition, NANOG expression was downregulated by exogenous overexpression of ESE-1, and increased by shRNA-mediated knockdown of ESE-1. NANOG transcriptional activity was reduced by dose-dependent ESE-1 overexpression and a putative ESE-1 binding site (EBS) was mapped within conserved region 2. Site-directed mutagenesis of the putative EBS abrogated the repressive effect of ESE-1 on NANOG promoter activity. ESE-1 directly interacted with the putative EBS to regulate transcriptional activity of NANOG. Furthermore, NANOG-induced proliferation and colony formation of NCCIT cells were inhibited by ESE-1 overexpression and stimulated by ESE-1 shRNA-mediated knockdown. Altogether, our results suggest that ESE-1 exerts an anti-proliferative effect on NCCIT cells by acting as a novel transcriptional repressor of NANOG.
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11
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Lobo J, Constâncio V, Leite-Silva P, Guimarães R, Cantante M, Braga I, Maurício J, Looijenga LHJ, Henrique R, Jerónimo C. Differential methylation EPIC analysis discloses cisplatin-resistance related hypermethylation and tumor-specific heterogeneity within matched primary and metastatic testicular germ cell tumor patient tissue samples. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:70. [PMID: 33823933 PMCID: PMC8025580 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01048-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are among the most common solid malignancies in young-adult men, and currently most mortality is due to metastatic disease and emergence of resistance to cisplatin. There is some evidence that increased methylation is one mechanism behind this resistance, stemming from individual studies, but approaches based on matched primary and metastatic patient samples are lacking. Herein, we provide an EPIC array-based study of matched primary and metastatic TGCT samples. Histology was the major determinant of overall methylation pattern, but some clustering of samples related to response to cisplatin was observed. Further differential analysis of patients with the same histological subtype (embryonal carcinoma) disclosed a remarkable increase in net methylation levels (at both promoter and CpG site level) in the patient with cisplatin-resistant disease and poor outcome compared to the patient with complete response to chemotherapy. This further confirms the recent results of another study performed on isogenic clones of sensitive and resistant TGCT cell lines. Differentially methylated promoters among groups of samples were mostly not shared, disclosing heterogeneity in patient tissue samples. Finally, gene ontology analysis of cisplatin-resistant samples indicated enrichment of differentially hypermethylated promoters on pathways related to regulation of immune microenvironment, and enrichment of differentially hypomethylated promoters on pathways related to DNA/chromatin binding and regulation. This data supports not only the use of hypomethylating agents for targeting cisplatin-resistant disease, but also their use in combination with immunotherapies and chromatin remodelers.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513, Porto, Portugal.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Vera Constâncio
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Leite-Silva
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Guimarães
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Cantante
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Isaac Braga
- Department of Urology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joaquina Maurício
- Department of Medical Oncology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal. .,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal. .,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal. .,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513, Porto, Portugal.
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12
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In Search of TGCT Biomarkers: A Comprehensive In Silico and Histopathological Analysis. DISEASE MARKERS 2020; 2020:8841880. [PMID: 33224314 PMCID: PMC7666710 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8841880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are ever more affecting the young male population. Germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) is the origin of TGCTs, namely, seminomas (SE) and a heterogeneous group of nonseminomas (NS) comprising embryonal carcinoma, teratoma, yolk sac tumor, and choriocarcinoma. Response to the treatment and prognosis, especially of NS, depend on precise diagnosis with a necessity for discovery of new biomarkers. We aimed to perform comprehensive in silico analysis at the DNA, RNA, and protein levels of six prospective (HOXA9, MGMT, CFC1, PRSS21, RASSF1A, and MAGEC2) and six known TGCT biomarkers (OCT4, SOX17, SOX2, SALL4, NANOG, and KIT) and assess its congruence with histopathological analysis in all forms of TGCTs. Cancer Hallmarks Analytics Tool, the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database, and UALCAN, an interactive web resource for analyzing cancer OMICS data, were used. In 108 TGCT and 48 tumor-free testicular samples, the immunoreactivity score (IRS) was calculated. SE showed higher frequency in DNA alteration, while DNA methylation was significantly higher for all prospective biomarkers in NS. In GCNIS, we assessed the clinical positivity of RASSF1 and PRSS21 in 52% and 62% of samples, respectively, in contrast to low or nil positivity in healthy seminiferous tubules, TGTCs as a group, SE, NS, or all NS components. Although present in approximately 80% of healthy seminiferous tubules (HT) and GCNIS, HOXA9 was diagnostically positive in 64% of TGCTs, while it was positive in 82% of NS versus 29% of SE. Results at the DNA, mRNA, and protein levels on putative and already known biomarkers were included in the suggested panels that may prove to be important for better diagnostics of various forms of TGCTs.
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13
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Kozakova K, Mego M, Cheng L, Chovanec M. Promising novel therapies for relapsed and refractory testicular germ cell tumors. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2020; 21:53-69. [PMID: 33138660 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2021.1838279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are the most common solid malignancies in young men. The overall cure rate of GCT patients in metastatic stage is excellent, however; patients with relapsed or refractory disease have poor prognosis. Attempts to treat refractory disease with novel effective treatment to improve prognosis have been historically dismal and the ability to predict prognosis and treatment response in GCTs did not sufficiently improve in the last three decades. AREAS COVERED We performed a comprehensive literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE to identify original and review articles (years 1964-2020) reporting on current improvement salvage treatment in GCTs and novel treatment options including molecularly targeted therapy and epigenetic approach. Review articles were further searched for additional original articles. EXPERT OPINION Despite multimodal treatment approaches the treatment of relapsed or platinum-refractory GCTs remains a challenge. High-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) regimens with autologous stem-cell transplant (ASCT) from peripheral blood showed promising results in larger retrospective studies. Promising results from in vitro studies raised high expectations in molecular targets. So far, the lacking efficacy in small and unselected trials do not shed a light on targeted therapy. Currently, wide inclusion of patients into clinical trials is highly advised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristyna Kozakova
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, National Cancer Institute , Bratislava, Slovakia.,2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute , Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Michal Mego
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute , Bratislava, Slovakia.,Division of Hematology Oncology, Indiana University Simon Cancer Center , Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Liang Cheng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Department of Urology, Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Michal Chovanec
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute , Bratislava, Slovakia.,Division of Hematology Oncology, Indiana University Simon Cancer Center , Indianapolis, IN, USA
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14
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Albany C, Fazal Z, Singh R, Bikorimana E, Adra N, Hanna NH, Einhorn LH, Perkins SM, Sandusky GE, Christensen BC, Keer H, Fang F, Nephew KP, Spinella MJ. A phase 1 study of combined guadecitabine and cisplatin in platinum refractory germ cell cancer. Cancer Med 2020; 10:156-163. [PMID: 33135391 PMCID: PMC7826483 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are cured with therapy based on cisplatin, although a clinically significant number of patients are refractory and die of progressive disease. Based on preclinical studies indicating that refractory testicular GCTs are hypersensitive to hypomethylating agents (HMAs), we conducted a phase I trial combining the next‐generation HMA guadecitabine (SGI‐110) with cisplatin in recurrent, cisplatin‐resistant GCT patients. Methods Patients with metastatic GCTs were treated for five consecutive days with guadecitabine followed by cisplatin on day 8, for a 28‐day cycle for up to six cycles. The primary endpoint was safety and toxicity including dose‐limiting toxicity (DLT) and maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Results The number of patients enrolled was 14. The majority of patients were heavily pretreated. MTD was determined to be 30 mg/m2 guadecitabine followed by 100 mg/m2 cisplatin. The major DLTs were neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Three patients had partial responses by RECIST criteria, two of these patients, including one with primary mediastinal disease, completed the study and qualified as complete responses by serum tumor marker criteria with sustained remissions of 5 and 13 months and survival of 16 and 26 months, respectively. The overall response rate was 23%. Three patients also had stable disease indicating a clinical benefit rate of 46%. Conclusions The combination of guadecitabine and cisplatin was tolerable and demonstrated activity in patients with platinum refractory germ cell cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costantine Albany
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Zeeshan Fazal
- Department of Comparative Biosciences and the Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Ratnakar Singh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences and the Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Emmanuel Bikorimana
- Department of Comparative Biosciences and the Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Nabil Adra
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Nasser H Hanna
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lawrence H Einhorn
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Susan M Perkins
- Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - George E Sandusky
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Brock C Christensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Harold Keer
- Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Pleasanton, CA, USA
| | - Fang Fang
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Kenneth P Nephew
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Michael J Spinella
- Department of Comparative Biosciences and the Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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15
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Fazal Z, Singh R, Fang F, Bikorimana E, Baldwin H, Corbet A, Tomlin M, Yerby C, Adra N, Albany C, Lee S, Freemantle SJ, Nephew KP, Christensen BC, Spinella MJ. Hypermethylation and global remodelling of DNA methylation is associated with acquired cisplatin resistance in testicular germ cell tumours. Epigenetics 2020; 16:1071-1084. [PMID: 33126827 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2020.1834926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) respond well to cisplatin-based therapy. However, cisplatin resistance and poor outcomes do occur. It has been suggested that a shift towards DNA hypermethylation mediates cisplatin resistance in TGCT cells, although there is little direct evidence to support this claim. Here we utilized a series of isogenic cisplatin-resistant cell models and observed a strong association between cisplatin resistance in TGCT cells and a net increase in global CpG and non-CpG DNA methylation spanning regulatory, intergenic, genic and repeat elements. Hypermethylated loci were significantly enriched for repressive DNA segments, CTCF and RAD21 sites and lamina associated domains, suggesting that global nuclear reorganization of chromatin structure occurred in resistant cells. Hypomethylated CpG loci were significantly enriched for EZH2 and SUZ12 binding and H3K27me3 sites. Integrative transcriptome and methylome analyses showed a strong negative correlation between gene promoter and CpG island methylation and gene expression in resistant cells and a weaker positive correlation between gene body methylation and gene expression. A bidirectional shift between gene promoter and gene body DNA methylation occurred within multiple genes that was associated with upregulation of polycomb targets and downregulation of tumour suppressor genes. These data support the hypothesis that global remodelling of DNA methylation is a key factor in mediating cisplatin hypersensitivity and chemoresistance of TGCTs and furthers the rationale for hypomethylation therapy for refractory TGCT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeeshan Fazal
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Ratnakar Singh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Fang Fang
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Emmanuel Bikorimana
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Hannah Baldwin
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Andrea Corbet
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Megan Tomlin
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Cliff Yerby
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Nabil Adra
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Costantine Albany
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Sarah Lee
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Sarah J Freemantle
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Kenneth P Nephew
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Brock C Christensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Michael J Spinella
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.,Carle Illinois College of Medicine and Cancer Center of Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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16
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Jostes SV, Fellermeyer M, Arévalo L, Merges GE, Kristiansen G, Nettersheim D, Schorle H. Unique and redundant roles of SOX2 and SOX17 in regulating the germ cell tumor fate. Int J Cancer 2020; 146:1592-1605. [PMID: 31583686 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Embryonal carcinomas (ECs) and seminomas are testicular germ cell tumors. ECs display expression of SOX2, while seminomas display expression of SOX17. In somatic differentiation, SOX17 drives endodermal cell fate. However, seminomas lack expression of endoderm markers, but show features of pluripotency. Here, we use chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing to report and compare the binding pattern of SOX17 in seminoma-like TCam-2 cells to SOX17 in somatic cells and SOX2 in EC-like 2102EP cells. In seminoma-like cells, SOX17 was detected at canonical (SOX2/OCT4), compressed (SOX17/OCT4) and noncomposite SOX motifs. SOX17 regulates TFAP2C, PRDM1 and PRDM14, thereby maintaining latent pluripotency and suppressing somatic differentiation. In contrast, in somatic cells canonical motifs are rarely bound by SOX17. In sum, only 12% of SOX17-binding sites overlap in seminoma-like and somatic cells. This illustrates that binding site choice is highly dynamic and cell type specific. Deletion of SOX17 in seminoma-like cells resulted in loss of pluripotency, marked by a reduction of OCT4 protein level and loss of alkaline phosphatase activity. Furthermore, we found that in EC-like cells SOX2 regulates pluripotency-associated genes, most likely by partnering with OCT4. In conclusion, SOX17 (in seminomas) functionally replaces SOX2 (in ECs) to maintain expression of the pluripotency cluster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina V Jostes
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Martin Fellermeyer
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lena Arévalo
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gina E Merges
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Glen Kristiansen
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Urological Research Laboratory, Department of Urology, Translational Urooncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
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17
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Singh R, Fazal Z, Freemantle SJ, Spinella MJ. Mechanisms of cisplatin sensitivity and resistance in testicular germ cell tumors. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2019; 2:580-594. [PMID: 31538140 PMCID: PMC6752046 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2019.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are a cancer pharmacology success story with a majority of patients cured even in the highly advanced and metastatic setting. Successful treatment of TGCTs is primarily due to the exquisite responsiveness of this solid tumor to cisplatin-based therapy. However, a significant percentage of patients are, or become, refractory to cisplatin and die from progressive disease. Mechanisms for both clinical hypersensitivity and resistance have largely remained a mystery despite the promise of applying lessons to the majority of solid tumors that are not curable in the metastatic setting. Recently, this promise has been heightened by the realization that distinct (and perhaps pharmacologically replicable) epigenetic states, rather than fixed genetic alterations, may play dominant roles in not only TGCT etiology and progression but also their curability with conventional chemotherapies. In this review, it discusses potential mechanisms of TGCT cisplatin sensitivity and resistance to conventional chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratnakar Singh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Zeeshan Fazal
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Sarah J Freemantle
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Michael J Spinella
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.,The Carle Illinois College of Medicine , University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.,The Cancer Center of Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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18
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Proteomic Comparison of Malignant Human Germ Cell Tumor Cell Lines. DISEASE MARKERS 2019; 2019:8298524. [PMID: 31565104 PMCID: PMC6745167 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8298524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Malignant germ cell tumors (GCT) are the most common malignant tumors in young men between 18 and 40 years. The correct identification of histological subtypes, in difficult cases supported by immunohistochemistry, is essential for therapeutic management. Furthermore, biomarkers may help to understand pathophysiological processes in these tumor types. Two GCT cell lines, TCam-2 with seminoma-like characteristics, and NTERA-2, an embryonal carcinoma-like cell line, were compared by a quantitative proteomic approach using high-resolution mass spectrometry (MS) in combination with stable isotope labelling by amino acid in cell culture (SILAC). We were able to identify 4856 proteins and quantify the expression of 3936. 347 were significantly differentially expressed between the two cell lines. For further validation, CD81, CBX-3, PHF6, and ENSA were analyzed by western blot analysis. The results confirmed the MS results. Immunohistochemical analysis on 59 formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) normal and GCT tissue samples (normal testis, GCNIS, seminomas, and embryonal carcinomas) of these proteins demonstrated the ability to distinguish different GCT subtypes, especially seminomas and embryonal carcinomas. In addition, siRNA-mediated knockdown of these proteins resulted in an antiproliferative effect in TCam-2, NTERA-2, and an additional embryonal carcinoma-like cell line, NCCIT. In summary, this study represents a proteomic resource for the discrimination of malignant germ cell tumor subtypes and the observed antiproliferative effect after knockdown of selected proteins paves the way for the identification of new potential drug targets.
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19
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Oing C, Skowron MA, Bokemeyer C, Nettersheim D. Epigenetic treatment combinations to effectively target cisplatin-resistant germ cell tumors: past, present, and future considerations. Andrology 2019; 7:487-497. [PMID: 30924611 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type II germ cell tumors represent the most common solid malignancy in men aged 15-45 years. Despite high cure rates of >90% over all stages, 10-15% of advanced patients develop treatment resistance and potentially succumb to their disease. Treatment of refractory germ cell tumors remains unsatisfactory, and new approaches are needed to further improve outcomes. OBJECTIVES With this narrative review, we highlight epigenetic mechanisms related to resistance to standard systemic treatment, which may act as promising targets for novel combined epigenetic treatment approaches. MATERIALS AND METHODS A comprehensive literature search of PubMed and MEDLINE was conducted to identify original and review articles on resistance mechanisms and/or epigenetic treatment of germ cell tumors in vitro and in vivo. Review articles were hand-searched to identify additional articles. RESULTS Distinct epigenetic phenomena have been linked to chemotherapy resistance in germ cell tumors, among which DNA hypermethylation, histone acetylation, and bromodomain proteins appear as promising targets for therapeutic exploitation. Inhibitors of key regulators, for example DNA methyltransferases (e.g. decitabine, guadecitabine), histone deacetylases (e.g. romidepsin), and bromodomain proteins (e.g. JQ1) decreased cell viability, triggered apoptosis, and growth arrest. Additionally, these epigenetic drugs induced differentiation and led to loss of pluripotency and re-sensitization towards cisplatin in cell lines and animal models. DISCUSSION Epigenetic treatments hold promise to (i) reduce the treatment burden of and (ii) overcome resistance to standard cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Combined approaches may enhance activity, while the ideal target and treatment combination of epigenetic drugs, either with another epigenetic agent or conventional cytotoxic agents need to be defined. CONCLUSION Epigenetic (combination) treatment for germ cell tumors should be further explored in pre-clinical and clinical research for its potential to further improve germ cell tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Oing
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Division of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Laboratory of Radiobiology and Experimental Radiooncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - M A Skowron
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational Urooncology, University Medical School Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - C Bokemeyer
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Division of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - D Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational Urooncology, University Medical School Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
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20
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Nettersheim D, Berger D, Jostes S, Kristiansen G, Lochnit G, Schorle H. N6-Methyladenosine detected in RNA of testicular germ cell tumors is controlled by METTL3, ALKBH5, YTHDC1/F1/F2, and HNRNPC as writers, erasers, and readers. Andrology 2019; 7:498-506. [PMID: 30903744 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type II testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) arise from a common precursor lesion (germ cell neoplasia in situ) and are stratified into seminomas and non-seminomas, which differ considerably in morphology, gene expression, and epigenetic landscape. The N6-methyladenosine (6mA) epigenetic modification is the most abundant modification in mRNA and is also detectable in eukaryotic DNA. The functional role of 6mA is not fully understood, but 6mA residues may influence transcription by affecting splicing, miRNA processing, and mRNA stability. Additionally, the methyl group of 6mA destabilizes Watson-Crick base-pairing affecting RNA structure and protein binding. OBJECTIVES Here, we analyzed the presence of the 6mA epigenetic modification in germ cells and GCT tissues and cell lines. MATERIALS AND METHODS We screened for the presence of 6mA in DNA and RNA by immunohistochemistry, mass spectrometry or ELISA-based quantification assays. Additionally, expression of 6mA writer-, eraser- and reader-factors was analyzed by microarrays, qRT-PCR, western blotting and screening of public databases. RESULTS We demonstrate that 6mA is detectable in RNA, but not DNA, of GCT cell lines and tissues, fibroblasts, and Sertoli cells as well as germ cells of different developmental stages. Based on expression analyses, our results suggest METTL3, ALKBH5, YTHDC1, YTHDF1, YTHDF2 and HNRNPC as main writers, erasers, and readers of the 6mA modification in GCTs. DISCUSSION Owing to the lack of 6mA in DNA of GCTs, a functional role in regulating DNA transcription can be excluded. Interestingly, expression levels of 6mA regulators are comparable between tumor and normal tissues/cells, suggesting a similar mechanism of 6mA regulation in RNA. Finally, we demonstrate that 6mA levels in RNA increase upon differentiation of GCT cell lines, suggesting a role of 6mA in cell fate decisions. CONCLUSION In summary, our data provide the starting point for further experiments deciphering the role of 6mA in the RNA of GCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational Urooncology, University Medical School Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - D Berger
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Bonn University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - S Jostes
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Bonn University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - G Kristiansen
- Institute of Pathology, Bonn University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - G Lochnit
- Institute of Biochemistry, Protein Analytics, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - H Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Bonn University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
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21
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Lobo J, Gillis AJM, Jerónimo C, Henrique R, Looijenga LHJ. Human Germ Cell Tumors are Developmental Cancers: Impact of Epigenetics on Pathobiology and Clinic. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E258. [PMID: 30634670 PMCID: PMC6359418 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20020258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Current (high throughput omics-based) data support the model that human (malignant) germ cell tumors are not initiated by somatic mutations, but, instead through a defined locked epigenetic status, representative of their cell of origin. This elegantly explains the role of both genetic susceptibility as well as environmental factors in the pathogenesis, referred to as 'genvironment'. Moreover, it could also explain various epidemiological findings, including the rising incidence of this type of cancer in Western societies. In addition, it allows for identification of clinically relevant and informative biomarkers both for diagnosis and follow-up of individual patients. The current status of these findings will be discussed, including the use of high throughput DNA methylation profiling for determination of differentially methylated regions (DMRs) as well as chromosomal copy number variation (CNV). Finally, the potential value of methylation-specific tumor DNA fragments (i.e., XIST promotor) as well as embryonic microRNAs as molecular biomarkers for cancer detection in liquid biopsies will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (GEBC CI-IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal;.
| | - Ad J M Gillis
- Laboratory of Experimental Patho-Oncology (LEPO), Josephine Nefkens Building, Erasmus MC, Department of Pathology, University Medical Center, Cancer Institute, Be-432A, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (GEBC CI-IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal;.
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (GEBC CI-IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal;.
| | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Laboratory of Experimental Patho-Oncology (LEPO), Josephine Nefkens Building, Erasmus MC, Department of Pathology, University Medical Center, Cancer Institute, Be-432A, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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22
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5-Azacitidine Exerts Prolonged Pro-Apoptotic Effects and Overcomes Cisplatin-Resistance in Non-Seminomatous Germ Cell Tumor Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 20:ijms20010021. [PMID: 30577584 PMCID: PMC6337423 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite high cure rates, about 20% of patients with advanced germ cell tumors (GCTs) fail cisplatin-based chemotherapy. High levels of DNA methylation have been identified in GCTs and linked to cisplatin resistance. Here, we examined the effects of DNA hypomethylating 5-azacitidine (5-aza) on two embryonal carcinoma cell lines (NCCIT, 2102Ep) and their cisplatin-resistant isogenic derivatives. Effects on cell viability and cisplatin sensitivity were assessed by the trypan blue exclusion method. Western blotting was used to examine induction of apoptosis 5-aza and results were validated by flow cytometry. Single agent treatment with 5-aza strongly impacted viability and induced apoptosis at low nanomolar concentrations, both in cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant cell lines. 5-aza exerted an immediate apoptotic response, followed by a prolonged inhibitory effect on cell viability and cell-cycle progression. Sequential treatment with 5-aza and cisplatin reduced cellular survival of the cisplatin-resistant sublines already at nanomolar concentrations, suggesting a partial restoration of cisplatin sensitivity by the compound. 5-aza demonstrated anti-tumor activity as a single agent at low nanomolar concentrations in GCT cells, irrespective of cisplatin-sensitivity. 5-aza may also have the potential at least to partially restore cisplatin-sensitivity in non-seminoma cells, supporting the hypothesis that combining DNA demethylating agents with cisplatin-based chemotherapy may be a valid therapeutic approach in patients with refractory GCTs.
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23
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular germ cell tumor such as seminoma is strongly associated with male reproductive problems commonly associated with the alteration of sperm parameters as described in testicular dysgenesis syndrome. Interestingly, numerous studies have reported that the precursor of germ cell cancer, germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS), present similarities to fetal gonocytes, specifically characterized by global DNA hypomethylation particularly on imprinting sequences. These disorders may have a common origin derived from perturbations of embryonal programming during fetal development. Presently, there is no available information concerning the sperm DNA methylation patterns of testicular cancer patients. For the first time, we evaluated the sperm imprinting of seminoma patients. A total of 92 cryopreserved sperm samples were included, 31 before seminoma treatment (S): 23 normozoospermic (SN) and 8 oligozoospermic (SO) and 61 sperm controls samples: 31 normozoospermic (N) and 30 oligozoospermic (O). DNA methylation levels of seven differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of imprinted genes [H19/IGF2: IG-DMR (CTCF3 and CTCF6 of H19 gene); IGF2-DMRs (DMR0 and DMR2); MEG3/DLK1:IG-DMR; SNURF:TSS-DMR; KCNQ1OT1:TSS-DMR] were assessed by pyrosequencing. All comparative analyses were adjusted for age. RESULTS Comparisons of sperm DNA methylation levels between seminoma (S) and normozoospermic (N) samples showed a significant difference for the SNURF sequence (p = 0.017), but after taking into account the sperm parameters, no difference was observed. However, we confirmed a significant association between oligozoospermia (O) and imprinting defects for H19/IGF2-CTCF6 (p = 0.001), MEG3/DLK1 (p = 0.017), IGF2-DMR2 (p = 0.022), and SNURF (p = 0.032) in comparison with control groups (N). CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the high risk of sperm imprinting defects in cases of oligozoospermia and shows for the first time that seminoma patients with normal spermatogenesis present sperm imprinting integrity. These data suggest a low probability of the involvement of a common imprinting defect in fetal cells leading to both TGCT and subfertility.
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24
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Park SW, Do HJ, Han MH, Choi W, Kim JH. The expression of the embryonic gene Cripto-1 is regulated by OCT4 in human embryonal carcinoma NCCIT cells. FEBS Lett 2017; 592:24-35. [PMID: 29223130 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Cripto-1 and OCT4, expressed in stem cells and cancers, play important roles in tumorigenesis. Here, we demonstrate that Cripto-1 expression is regulated by OCT4 in human embryonic carcinoma NCCIT cells. The endogenous expression of Cripto-1 and OCT4 is significantly reduced during differentiation. Cripto-1 expression is increased by OCT4 overexpression, but decreased by shRNA-mediated OCT4 knockdown. OCT4 overexpression significantly activates Cripto-1 transcriptional activity. A 5'-upstream minimal promoter sequence in the gene-encoding Cripto-1 is significantly activated by OCT4 overexpression. Mutation of the putative OCT4-binding site abolishes OCT4-mediated activation of the Cripto-1 promoter. The OCT4 transactivation domains mediate transcriptional activity of the Cripto-1 minimal promoter through direct interaction. Taken together, OCT4 plays an important role as a transcriptional activator of Cripto-1 expression in NCCIT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Won Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, Korea
| | - Hyun-Jin Do
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, Korea
| | - Mi-Hee Han
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, Korea
| | - Wonbin Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, Korea
| | - Jae-Hwan Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, Korea
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25
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Sonnenburg D, Spinella MJ, Albany C. Epigenetic Targeting of Platinum Resistant Testicular Cancer. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2017; 16:789-795. [PMID: 26694252 DOI: 10.2174/1568009616666151222150359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Revised: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The involvement of epigenetic aberrations in the development and progression of tumors is now well established. However, little is known of the epigenetic alterations in testicular cancer and particularly in platinum refractory germ cell tumors. Germ cell derived testicular cancers, as compared to somatic tumors, appear to have a unique epigenetic profile that features more extensive DNA hypomethylation. Emerging data from clinical specimens suggest that epigenetic aberrations, especially DNA hypermethylation, can contribute to chemotherapy resistance and poor clinical outcomes in testicular germ cell tumors. Recent data indicate that testicular cancer cells, even those resistant to platinum, are highly sensitive to low doses of demethylating agents. Based on these promising preclinical studies, we suggest that DNA methylation inhibitors in combination with chemotherapeutic agents may offer a path to overcome acquired drug resistance in testicular cancer, laying the foundation and rationale for testing this class of epigenetic drugs in the clinical setting. In this mini-review we provide a brief overview of the promise of DNA methylation therapy to treat patients with refractory cancer of the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Costantine Albany
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, 535 Barnhull Drive RT-473, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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26
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Pérez-Ramírez M, Hernández-Jiménez AJ, Guerrero-Guerrero A, Siordia-Reyes AG, Hernández-Caballero ME, García-Méndez A, Chico-Ponce de León F, Salamanca-Gómez FA, García-Hernández N. Pediatric pineal germinomas: Epigenetic and genomic approach. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2016; 152:45-51. [PMID: 27889662 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2016.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We identify and correlate chromosomal alterations, methylation patterns and gene expression in pediatric pineal germinomas. METHODS CGH microarray, methylation and gene expression were performed through the Agilent platform. The results were analyzed with MatLab software, MapViewer, DAVID, GeneCards and Hippie. RESULTS Amplifications were found in 1q24.2, 1q31.3, 2p11.2, 3p22.2, 7p13, 7p15.2, 8p22, 12p13.2, 14q24.3 y 22q12; and deletions were found in 1q21.2, 9p24.1, 10q11.22, 11q11, 15q11.2 and 17q21.31. In the methylation analysis, we observed 10,428 CpG Islands with a modified methylation status that may affect 11,726 genes. We identified 1260 overexpressed genes and 470 underexpressed genes. The genes RUNDC3A, CDC247, CDCA7L, ASAH1, TRA2A, LPL and NPC2 were altered among the three levels. CONCLUSIONS We identified the 1q24.2 and 1q31.3 amplified regions and the 1q21.3 and 11q11 deleted regions as the most important aims. The genes NPC2 and ASAH1 may play an important role in the development, progression and tumor maintenance. The ASAH1 gene is an ideal candidate to identify drug responses. These genomic and epigenetic studies may help to characterize the formation of pineal germ cell tumors to determine prognostic markers and also to identify shared characteristics in gonadal and extragonadal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monserrat Pérez-Ramírez
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Genética Humana, Hospital de Pediatría "Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freud", Centro Médico Nacional "Siglo XXI", IMSS, Av. Cuauhtémoc 330, Col. Doctores, 06720, Del. Cuauhtémoc, México D.F., Mexico; Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Ciudad Universitaria 3000, 04360, Coyoacán, México D.F., Mexico
| | - Alejo Justino Hernández-Jiménez
- Servicio de Neurocirugía Pediátrica, Hospital General "Dr. Gaudencio González Garza", Centro Médico Nacional "La Raza", IMSS, Calzada Vallejo y Jacarandas S/N, 02980, Col. La Raza, Del. Azcapotzalco, México D.F., Mexico
| | - Armando Guerrero-Guerrero
- Servicio de Neurocirugía Pediátrica, Hospital General "Dr. Gaudencio González Garza", Centro Médico Nacional "La Raza", IMSS, Calzada Vallejo y Jacarandas S/N, 02980, Col. La Raza, Del. Azcapotzalco, México D.F., Mexico
| | - Alicia Georgina Siordia-Reyes
- Servicio de Patología, Hospital de Pediatría "Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freud", Centro Médico Nacional "Siglo XXI", IMSS, Av. Cuauhtémoc 330, Col. Doctores, 06720, Del. Cuauhtémoc, México D.F., Mexico
| | | | - Antonio García-Méndez
- Servicio de Neurocirugía Pediátrica, Hospital General "Dr. Gaudencio González Garza", Centro Médico Nacional "La Raza", IMSS, Calzada Vallejo y Jacarandas S/N, 02980, Col. La Raza, Del. Azcapotzalco, México D.F., Mexico
| | - Fernando Chico-Ponce de León
- Departamento de Neurocirugía, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Dr. Márquez 162, Col. Doctores, 06720, Del. Cuauhtémoc, México D.F., Mexico
| | - Fabio Abdel Salamanca-Gómez
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Genética Humana, Hospital de Pediatría "Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freud", Centro Médico Nacional "Siglo XXI", IMSS, Av. Cuauhtémoc 330, Col. Doctores, 06720, Del. Cuauhtémoc, México D.F., Mexico
| | - Normand García-Hernández
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Genética Humana, Hospital de Pediatría "Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freud", Centro Médico Nacional "Siglo XXI", IMSS, Av. Cuauhtémoc 330, Col. Doctores, 06720, Del. Cuauhtémoc, México D.F., Mexico.
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Noor DAM, Jeyapalan JN, Alhazmi S, Carr M, Squibb B, Wallace C, Tan C, Cusack M, Hughes J, Reader T, Shipley J, Sheer D, Scotting PJ. Genome-wide methylation analysis identifies genes silenced in non-seminoma cell lines. NPJ Genom Med 2016; 1:15009. [PMID: 29263807 PMCID: PMC5685295 DOI: 10.1038/npjgenmed.2015.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Silencing of genes by DNA methylation is a common phenomenon in many types of cancer. However, the genome-wide effect of DNA methylation on gene expression has been analysed in relatively few cancers. Germ cell tumours (GCTs) are a complex group of malignancies. They are unique in developing from a pluripotent progenitor cell. Previous analyses have suggested that non-seminomas exhibit much higher levels of DNA methylation than seminomas. The genomic targets that are methylated, the extent to which this results in gene silencing and the identity of the silenced genes most likely to play a role in the tumours’ biology have not yet been established. In this study, genome-wide methylation and expression analysis of GCT cell lines was combined with gene expression data from primary tumours to address this question. Genome methylation was analysed using the Illumina infinium HumanMethylome450 bead chip system and gene expression was analysed using Affymetrix GeneChip Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 arrays. Regulation by methylation was confirmed by demethylation using 5-aza-2-deoxycytidine and reverse transcription–quantitative PCR. Large differences in the level of methylation of the CpG islands of individual genes between tumour cell lines correlated well with differential gene expression. Treatment of non-seminoma cells with 5-aza-2-deoxycytidine verified that methylation of all genes tested played a role in their silencing in yolk sac tumour cells and many of these genes were also differentially expressed in primary tumours. Genes silenced by methylation in the various GCT cell lines were identified. Several pluripotency-associated genes were identified as a major functional group of silenced genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dzul Azri Mohamed Noor
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Jennie N Jeyapalan
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK
| | - Safiah Alhazmi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Matthew Carr
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Benjamin Squibb
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Claire Wallace
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Christopher Tan
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Martin Cusack
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jaime Hughes
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Tom Reader
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Janet Shipley
- Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Denise Sheer
- The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK
| | - Paul J Scotting
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Rijlaarsdam MA, Tax DMJ, Gillis AJM, Dorssers LCJ, Koestler DC, de Ridder J, Looijenga LHJ. Genome wide DNA methylation profiles provide clues to the origin and pathogenesis of germ cell tumors. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122146. [PMID: 25859847 PMCID: PMC4479500 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 02/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cell of origin of the five subtypes (I-V) of germ cell tumors (GCTs) are assumed to be germ cells from different maturation stages. This is (potentially) reflected in their methylation status as fetal maturing primordial germ cells are globally demethylated during migration from the yolk sac to the gonad. Imprinted regions are erased in the gonad and later become uniparentally imprinted according to fetal sex. Here, 91 GCTs (type I-IV) and four cell lines were profiled (Illumina’s HumanMethylation450BeadChip). Data was pre-processed controlling for cross hybridization, SNPs, detection rate, probe-type bias and batch effects. The annotation was extended, covering snRNAs/microRNAs, repeat elements and imprinted regions. A Hidden Markov Model-based genome segmentation was devised to identify differentially methylated genomic regions. Methylation profiles allowed for separation of clusters of non-seminomas (type II), seminomas/dysgerminomas (type II), spermatocytic seminomas (type III) and teratomas/dermoid cysts (type I/IV). The seminomas, dysgerminomas and spermatocytic seminomas were globally hypomethylated, in line with previous reports and their demethylated precursor. Differential methylation and imprinting status between subtypes reflected their presumed cell of origin. Ovarian type I teratomas and dermoid cysts showed (partial) sex specific uniparental maternal imprinting. The spermatocytic seminomas showed uniparental paternal imprinting while testicular teratomas exhibited partial imprinting erasure. Somatic imprinting in type II GCTs might indicate a cell of origin after global demethylation but before imprinting erasure. This is earlier than previously described, but agrees with the totipotent/embryonic stem cell like potential of type II GCTs and their rare extra-gonadal localization. The results support the common origin of the type I teratomas and show strong similarity between ovarian type I teratomas and dermoid cysts. In conclusion, we identified specific and global methylation differences between GCT subtypes, providing insight into their developmental timing and underlying developmental biology. Data and extended annotation are deposited at GEO (GSE58538 and GPL18809).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin A. Rijlaarsdam
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute—University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David M. J. Tax
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science Intelligent Systems—Delft Bioinformatics Lab, Technical University of Delft, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Ad J. M. Gillis
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute—University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lambert C. J. Dorssers
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute—University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Devin C. Koestler
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Jeroen de Ridder
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science Intelligent Systems—Delft Bioinformatics Lab, Technical University of Delft, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert H. J. Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute—University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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29
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Rijlaarsdam MA, Looijenga LHJ. An oncofetal and developmental perspective on testicular germ cell cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2014; 29:59-74. [PMID: 25066859 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2014.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Germ cell tumors (GCTs) represent a diverse group of tumors presumably originating from (early fetal) developing germ cells. Most frequent are the testicular germ cell cancers (TGCC). Overall, TGCC is the most frequent malignancy in Caucasian males (20-40 years) and remains an important cause of (treatment related) mortality in these young men. The strong association between the phenotype of TGCC stem cell components and their totipotent ancestor (fetal primordial germ cell or gonocyte) makes these tumors highly relevant from an onco-fetal point of view. This review subsequently discusses the evidence for the early embryonic origin of TGCCs, followed by an overview of the crucial association between TGCC pathogenesis, genetics, environmental exposure and the (fetal) testicular micro-environment (genvironment). This culminates in an evaluation of three genvironmentally modulated hallmarks of TGCC directly related to the oncofetal pathogenesis of TGCC: (1) maintenance of pluripotency, (2) cell cycle control/cisplatin sensitivity and (3) regulation of proliferation/migration/apoptosis by KIT-KITL mediated receptor tyrosine kinase signaling. Briefly, TGCC exhibit identifiable stem cell components (seminoma and embryonal carcinoma) and progenitors that show large and consistent similarities to primordial/embryonic germ cells, their presumed totipotent cells of origin. TGCC pathogenesis depends crucially on a complex interaction of genetic and (micro-)environmental, i.e. genvironmental risk factors that have only been partly elucidated despite significant effort. TGCC stem cell components also show a high degree of similarity with embryonic stem/germ cells (ES) in the regulation of pluripotency and cell cycle control, directly related to their exquisite sensitivity to DNA damaging agents (e.g. cisplatin). Of note, (ES specific) micro-RNAs play a pivotal role in the crossover between cell cycle control, pluripotency and chemosensitivity. Moreover, multiple consistent observations reported TGCC to be associated with KIT-KITL mediated receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, a pathway crucially implicated in proliferation, migration and survival during embryogenesis including germ cell development. In conclusion, TGCCs are a fascinating model for onco-fetal developmental processes especially with regard to studying cell cycle control, pluripotency maintenance and KIT-KITL signaling. The knowledge presented here contributes to better understanding of the molecular characteristics of TGCC pathogenesis, translating to identification of at risk individuals and enhanced quality of care for TGCC patients (diagnosis, treatment and follow-up).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin A Rijlaarsdam
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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30
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Rijlaarsdam MA, van der Zwan YG, Dorssers LCJ, Looijenga LHJ. DMRforPairs: identifying differentially methylated regions between unique samples using array based methylation profiles. BMC Bioinformatics 2014; 15:141. [PMID: 24884391 PMCID: PMC4046028 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2105-15-141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Array based methylation profiling is a cost-effective solution to study the association between genome methylation and human disease & development. Available tools to analyze the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip focus on comparing methylation levels per locus. Other tools combine multiple probes into a range, identifying differential methylated regions (DMRs). These tools all require groups of samples to compare. However, comparison of unique, individual samples is essential in situations where larger sample sizes are not possible. Results DMRforPairs was designed to compare regional methylation status between unique samples. It identifies probe dense genomic regions and quantifies/tests their (difference in) methylation level between the samples. As a proof of concept, DMRforPairs is applied to public data from four human cell lines: two lymphoblastoid cell lines from healthy individuals and the cancer cell lines A431 and MCF7 (including 2 technical replicates each). DMRforPairs identified an increasing number of DMRs related to the sample phenotype when biological similarity of the samples decreased. DMRs identified by DMRforPairs were related to the biological origin of the cell lines. Conclusion To our knowledge, DMRforPairs is the first tool to identify and visualize relevant and significant differentially methylated regions between unique samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory for Experimental Patho-Oncology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center Rotterdam, Be-432, P,O, Box 2040, Rotterdam 3000 CA, Netherlands.
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