1
|
Riley NM, Wen RM, Bertozzi CR, Brooks JD, Pitteri SJ. Measuring the multifaceted roles of mucin-domain glycoproteins in cancer. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 157:83-121. [PMID: 36725114 PMCID: PMC10582998 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Mucin-domain glycoproteins are highly O-glycosylated cell surface and secreted proteins that serve as both biochemical and biophysical modulators. Aberrant expression and glycosylation of mucins are known hallmarks in numerous malignancies, yet mucin-domain glycoproteins remain enigmatic in the broad landscape of cancer glycobiology. Here we review the multifaceted roles of mucins in cancer through the lens of the analytical and biochemical methods used to study them. We also describe a collection of emerging tools that are specifically equipped to characterize mucin-domain glycoproteins in complex biological backgrounds. These approaches are poised to further elucidate how mucin biology can be understood and subsequently targeted for the next generation of cancer therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas M Riley
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.
| | - Ru M Wen
- Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Carolyn R Bertozzi
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - James D Brooks
- Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States; Department of Radiology, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Sharon J Pitteri
- Department of Radiology, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
McCloskey CW, Rodriguez GM, Galpin KJC, Vanderhyden BC. Ovarian Cancer Immunotherapy: Preclinical Models and Emerging Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10080244. [PMID: 30049987 PMCID: PMC6115831 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10080244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most promising approaches for ovarian cancer treatment. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a key factor to consider when stimulating antitumoral responses as it consists largely of tumor promoting immunosuppressive cell types that attenuate antitumor immunity. As our understanding of the determinants of the TME composition grows, we have begun to appreciate the need to address both inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity, mutation/neoantigen burden, immune landscape, and stromal cell contributions. The majority of immunotherapy studies in ovarian cancer have been performed using the well-characterized murine ID8 ovarian carcinoma model. Numerous other animal models of ovarian cancer exist, but have been underutilized because of their narrow initial characterizations in this context. Here, we describe animal models that may be untapped resources for the immunotherapy field because of their shared genomic alterations and histopathology with human ovarian cancer. We also shed light on the strengths and limitations of these models, and the knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to enhance the utility of preclinical models for testing novel immunotherapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Curtis W McCloskey
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada.
| | - Galaxia M Rodriguez
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada.
| | - Kristianne J C Galpin
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada.
| | - Barbara C Vanderhyden
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Santos do Carmo F, Ricci-Junior E, Cerqueira-Coutinho C, Albernaz MDS, Bernardes ES, Missailidis S, Santos-Oliveira R. Anti-MUC1 nano-aptamers for triple-negative breast cancer imaging by single-photon emission computed tomography in inducted animals: initial considerations. Int J Nanomedicine 2016; 12:53-60. [PMID: 28053523 PMCID: PMC5191850 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s118482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The early and specific detection of tumors remains a barrier in oncology, especially in cases such as the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). To address this gap, aptamers have found an important application in the recognition of tumor biomarkers such as mucin 1 (MUC1). However, there are still some difficulties in the use of aptamer, as their rapid biological clearance makes their use as drugs limited. In this study, the anti-MUC1 aptamer was used as a drug delivery system (DDS) for a radioactive polymeric nanoparticle (NP) in the imaging of TNBCs. Thus, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) NPs loaded with the anti-MUC1 aptamer and labeled with technetium-99m were used for a biodistribution study and imaging of TNBC. The results confirmed that the NP was successfully obtained, with a mean size of 262 nm, according to the dynamic light scattering data. The biodistribution assay in induced animal models with TNBC showed that although there was a high capture by intestine (>30%), the DDS developed had a high tumor uptake (5%) and with great in vivo imaging properties, corroborating the possibility of use of this DDS as an imaging drug for TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fagner Santos do Carmo
- Rio de Janeiro State University, Biology Institute Roberto Alcantara Gomes; Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission, Nuclear Engineering Institute
| | | | | | - Marta de Souza Albernaz
- Rio de Janeiro State University, Biology Institute Roberto Alcantara Gomes; University Hospital Clementino Fraga Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro
| | | | - Sotiris Missailidis
- Institute of Technology in Immunobiologics Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Vymetalkova V, Pardini B, Rosa F, Jiraskova K, Di Gaetano C, Bendova P, Levy M, Veskrnova V, Buchler T, Vodickova L, Naccarati A, Vodicka P. Polymorphisms in microRNA binding sites of mucin genes as predictors of clinical outcome in colorectal cancer patients. Carcinogenesis 2016; 38:28-39. [PMID: 27803053 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgw114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polymorphisms in microRNA (miRNA) binding sites may affect miRNA/target gene interaction, resulting in differential mRNA/protein expression and susceptibility to common diseases. Mucins have been identified as markers of adverse prognosis. We hypothesized that genetic variations in miRNA binding sites located in mucin genes may modulate signaling response and the maintenance of genomic stability ultimately affecting cancer susceptibility, efficacy of chemotherapy and survival. In this study, we analyzed the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in predicted miRNA target sites (miRSNPs) of mucin genes with colorectal cancer (CRC) risk and clinical outcome. Thirteen miRSNPs in 9 genes were assessed in 1111 cases and 1469 controls. No strongly significant associations were observed in the case-control study. Patients carrying the CC genotype of rs886403 in MUC21 displayed a shorter survival and higher recurrence risk when compared with TT carriers [overall survival (OS): hazard ratios (HR) 1.69; 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.13-2.46; P = 0.01 and event-free survival (EFS): HR 1.99; 95% CI 1.38-2.84; P = 0.0002, respectively]. The observed associations were more striking after stratification for tumor site (in patients with colon cancer, OS: HR 2.63; 95% CI 1.69-4.10; P < 0.0001 and EFS: HR 2.65; 95% CI 1.72-4.07; P < 0.0001). In contrast, rectal cancer cases carrying the CC genotype of rs4729655 in MUC17 displayed a longer survival (OS: HR 0.27; 95% CI 0.14-0.54; P = 0.0002) than those with the most common genotype. To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating miRSNPs potentially affecting miRNA binding to mucin genes and revealing their impact on CRC susceptibility or patient's survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Vymetalkova
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic, .,Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 11000 Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Fabio Rosa
- Human Genetics Foundation, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Katerina Jiraskova
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic.,Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 11000 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Cornelia Di Gaetano
- Human Genetics Foundation, 10126 Turin, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Petra Bendova
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic.,Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 11000 Prague, Czech Republic.,Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University in Prague, 30605 Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Miloslav Levy
- Department of Surgery, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Thomayer University Hospital, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic and
| | - Veronika Veskrnova
- Department of Oncology, Thomayer Hospital and First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 11000 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Buchler
- Department of Oncology, Thomayer Hospital and First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 11000 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ludmila Vodickova
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic.,Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 11000 Prague, Czech Republic.,Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University in Prague, 30605 Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Alessio Naccarati
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic.,Human Genetics Foundation, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Pavel Vodicka
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic.,Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 11000 Prague, Czech Republic.,Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University in Prague, 30605 Pilsen, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Beatty PL, van der Geest R, Hashash JG, Kimura T, Gutkin D, Brand RE, Finn OJ. Immunobiology and immunosurveillance in patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs), premalignant precursors of pancreatic adenocarcinomas. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2016; 65:771-8. [PMID: 27106024 PMCID: PMC11028509 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-016-1838-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Premalignant lesions for many cancers have been identified, and efforts are currently directed toward identification of antigens expressed on these lesions that would provide suitable targets for vaccines for cancer prevention. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are premalignant pancreatic cysts of which a subset has the potential to progress to cancer. Currently, there are no validated predictive markers for progression to malignancy. We hypothesized that the presence or absence of immune surveillance of these lesions would be one such factor. Here we show that the tumor antigen MUC1, which is abnormally expressed on pancreatic cancer and is a target for cancer immunosurveillance, is also abnormally expressed on premalignant IPMN. We show that some IPMN patients make MUC1-specific IgG. Moreover, we show evidence of CD4 and CD8 T cell infiltration into IPMN areas of high dysplasia suggesting an ongoing immune response within the lesions. We also found, however, increased levels of circulating myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in some IPMN patients as well as evidence of T cell exhaustion. Further studies correlating immunosurveillance or immunosuppression with IPMN progression to malignancy will help define the immune response as a biomarker of risk, leading potentially to a vaccine to boost spontaneous immunity and prevent progression to cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela L Beatty
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 200 Lothrop Street, E1040 BST, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Rick van der Geest
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 200 Lothrop Street, E1040 BST, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Jana G Hashash
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Takashi Kimura
- Department of Regenerative Surgery, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Dmitriy Gutkin
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Randall E Brand
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Olivera J Finn
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 200 Lothrop Street, E1040 BST, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yang CW, Chang CYY, Lai MT, Chang HW, Lu CC, Chen Y, Chen CM, Lee SC, Tsai PW, Yang SH, Lin CH, Sheu JJC, Tsai FJ. Genetic variations of MUC17 are associated with endometriosis development and related infertility. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2015; 16:60. [PMID: 26285705 PMCID: PMC4593232 DOI: 10.1186/s12881-015-0209-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic alterations of mucin genes, such as MUC2 and MUC4, were previously identified to be associated with endometriosis and related infertility. Additionally, gene expression profiling has confirmed MUC17 to be overexpressed in mucinous ovarian carcinoma; however, its associated risk for endometriosis remains unclear. This study was focused on the potential impact of genetic variations in MUC17 on endometriosis development and associated clinical features. METHODS The study subjects included 189 female Taiwanese patients with pathology-proven endometriosis and 191 healthy Taiwanese women as controls. Five single-nucleotide polymorphisms (rs4729645, rs10953316, rs74974199, rs4729655, and rs4729656) within the MUC17 gene were selected and genotyped using the Taqman genotyping assay to examine the allele frequency and genotype distributions of MUC17 polymorphisms. RESULTS Genotyping revealed that the A allele at rs10953316 in MUC17 was a protective genetic factor in endometriosis development (p = 0.008; OR = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.36-0.79). Genetic variation of rs4729655 protected patients against endometriosis-induced infertility, but was associated with a higher cancer antigen 125 (CA125) level. Base-pairing analysis, called MaxExpect, predicted an additional loop in the mRNA structure caused by rs10953316 polymorphism, possibly influencing ribosome sliding and translation efficiency. Such predictions were confirmed by immunohistochemistry that patients with AA genotype at rs10953316 showed low MUC17 levels in their endometrium, patients with GA genotype showed moderate levels, and strong staining could be found in patients with GG genotype. CONCLUSIONS MUC17 polymorphisms are involved in endometriosis development and the associated infertility in the Taiwanese population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Wen Yang
- The Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan. .,Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Cherry Yin-Yi Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan. .,Institute of Environmental Health, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Ming-Tsung Lai
- Department of Pathology, Taichung Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Hui-Wen Chang
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Cheng-Chan Lu
- The Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan. .,Department of Pathology, Medical College, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Yi Chen
- Human Genetic Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Chih-Mei Chen
- Human Genetic Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Shan-Chih Lee
- Collage of Medical Science and Technology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Wen Tsai
- Human Genetic Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Su-Han Yang
- Human Genetic Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Chih-Hung Lin
- Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Jim Jinn-Chyuan Sheu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. .,Human Genetic Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan. .,School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan. .,Department of Health and Nutrition Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Fuu-Jen Tsai
- Human Genetic Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan. .,School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Králíčková M, Vetvicka V. Immunological aspects of endometriosis: a review. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2015; 3:153. [PMID: 26244140 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2305-5839.2015.06.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common and serious illness affecting women in their reproductive years. Despite the ongoing interest and intensive research of this crippling disease, the cause remains unknown since its first description over 150 years ago. The origins and genesis of endometriosis, despite numerous hypotheses, are still unclear. One of the possible causes of the development of endometriosis might be the immune system, despite the fact that endometriosis is generally considered to be a steroid-sensitive disease. Numerous aspects of the immune system has been found changed, from the different number of activated macrophages to different subtypes of lymphocytes and their activities, suggesting involvement of immunity. On the other hand, it is possible that immunological changes around the endometriotic lesion are only secondary to the establishment of endometriosis. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge of immunological reactions in endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milena Králíčková
- 1 Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Karlovarska 48, Plzen 301 00, Czech Republic ; 2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Alej Svobody 80, Plzen 301 66, Czech Republic ; 3 Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Plzen, Charles University, Plzen, Czech Republic ; 4 Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, 511 S. Floyd, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Vaclav Vetvicka
- 1 Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Karlovarska 48, Plzen 301 00, Czech Republic ; 2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Alej Svobody 80, Plzen 301 66, Czech Republic ; 3 Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Plzen, Charles University, Plzen, Czech Republic ; 4 Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, 511 S. Floyd, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Florea A, Ravalli A, Cristea C, Săndulescu R, Marrazza G. An Optimized Bioassay for Mucin1 Detection in Serum Samples. ELECTROANAL 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/elan.201400689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
9
|
Dharmaraj N, Chapela PJ, Morgado M, Hawkins SM, Lessey BA, Young SL, Carson DD. Expression of the transmembrane mucins, MUC1, MUC4 and MUC16, in normal endometrium and in endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1730-8. [PMID: 24939955 PMCID: PMC4093996 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are the transmembrane mucins, MUC1, MUC4 and MUC16, differentially expressed in endometriosis compared with normal endometrium? SUMMARY ANSWER This study revealed that transmembrane mucin expression does not vary significantly in normal endometrium during the menstrual cycle and is not altered in endometriosis relative to the epithelial marker, cytokeratin-18 (KRT18). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Increased serum levels of the transmembrane mucin fragments MUC1, MUC4 and MUC16 that normally dominate the apical surface of simple epithelia are found in several pathological conditions, including endometriosis. Altered mucin expression in gynecologic diseases may promote infertility or endometrial pathologies. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a laboratory-based study of samples from 12 endometriosis patients as well as non-endometriosis control samples obtained from 31 patients. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Total RNA was isolated from endometrial biopsies of ectopic and eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis and control patients from different stages of the menstrual cycle. Quantitative (q)-RT-PCR analyses were performed for the mucins, MUC1, MUC4 and MUC16, relative to the epithelial marker, cytokeratin-18 (KRT18), or β-actin (ACTB). Frozen sections from endometrial biopsies of proliferative and mid-secretory stage women with endometriosis were immunostained for MUC1, MUC4 and MUC16. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE qRT-PCR analyses of MUC1 and MUC16 mRNA revealed that these mucins do not vary significantly during the menstrual cycle nor are they altered in women with endometriosis relative to the epithelial marker, KRT18. MUC4 mRNA is expressed at very low levels relative to MUC1 and MUC16 under all conditions. There was little difference in MUC1 and MUC16 expression between eutopic endometrial and ectopic endometriotic tissues. MUC4 expression also was not significantly higher in the ectopic endometriotic tissues. Immunostaining for all three mucins reveals robust expression of MUC1 and MUC16 at the apical surfaces of endometrial epithelia, but little to no staining for MUC4. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION qRT-PCR analysis was the main method used for mucin detection. Additional studies with stage III-IV endometriotic tissue would be useful to determine if changes in MUC1 and MUC16 expression occur, or if MUC4 expression increases, at later stages of endometriosis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We report a comprehensive comparative profile of the major transmembrane mucins, MUC1, MUC4 and MUC16, relative to the epithelial marker, KRT18, in normal cycling endometrium and in endometriosis, and indicate constitutive expression. Previous studies have profiled the expression of individual mucins relative to β-actin and indicate accumulation in the luteal phase. Thus, these differences in interpretation appear to reflect the increased epithelial content of endometrium during the luteal phase. STUDY FUNDING This study was supported by: NIH R01HD29963 to D.D.C.; NIH U54HD007495 to S.M.H.; and NIH R01HD067721 to S.L.Y. and B.A.L. The authors have no competing interests to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Dharmaraj
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University, Houston, TX 77251, USA
| | - P J Chapela
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University, Houston, TX 77251, USA
| | - M Morgado
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University, Houston, TX 77251, USA
| | - S M Hawkins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - B A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Greenville Health System, Greenville, SC 29650, USA
| | - S L Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - D D Carson
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University, Houston, TX 77251, USA Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Diaconu I, Cristea C, Hârceagă V, Marrazza G, Berindan-Neagoe I, Săndulescu R. Electrochemical immunosensors in breast and ovarian cancer. Clin Chim Acta 2013; 425:128-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2013.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2013] [Revised: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 07/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
11
|
Uekuri C, Shigetomi H, Ono S, Sasaki Y, Matsuura M, Kobayashi H. Toward an understanding of the pathophysiology of clear cell carcinoma of the ovary (Review). Oncol Lett 2013; 6:1163-1173. [PMID: 24179489 PMCID: PMC3813717 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2013.1550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis-associated ovarian cancers demonstrate substantial morphological and genetic diversity. The transcription factor, hepatocyte nuclear factor (HNF)-1β, may be one of several key genes involved in the identity of ovarian clear cell carcinoma (CCC). The present study reviews a considerably expanded set of HNF-1β-associated genes and proteins that determine the pathophysiology of CCC. The current literature was reviewed by searching MEDLINE/PubMed. Functional interpretations of gene expression profiling in CCC are provided. Several important CCC-related genes overlap with those known to be regulated by the upregulation of HNF-1β expression, along with a lack of estrogen receptor (ER) expression. Furthermore, the genetic expression pattern in CCC resembles that of the Arias-Stella reaction, decidualization and placentation. HNF-1β regulates a subset of progesterone target genes. HNF-1β may also act as a modulator of female reproduction, playing a role in endometrial regeneration, differentiation, decidualization, glycogen synthesis, detoxification, cell cycle regulation, implantation, uterine receptivity and a successful pregnancy. In conclusion, the present study focused on reviewing the aberrant expression of CCC-specific genes and provided an update on the pathological implications and molecular functions of well-characterized CCC-specific genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiharu Uekuri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara 634-8522, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Beatty PL, Finn OJ. Preventing cancer by targeting abnormally expressed self-antigens: MUC1 vaccines for prevention of epithelial adenocarcinomas. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2013; 1284:52-6. [PMID: 23651193 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.12108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Prophylactic vaccines based on tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) have elicited concerns due to their potential toxicity. Because TAAs are considered self-antigens, the prediction is that such vaccines will induce autoimmunity. While this has been observed in melanoma, where an antitumor immune response leads to vitiligo, autoimmunity has almost never been seen following vaccination with numerous other TAAs. We hypothesized that antigen choice determines outcome and have been working to identify TAAs whose expression differs between normal and tumor tissue, and thus could elicit antitumor immunity without autoimmunity. Studies on the epithelial TAA MUC1 have revealed that, compared to MUC1 on normal cells, tumors, premalignant lesions, and noncancerous pathologies affecting epithelial cells express abnormal MUC1, which is not a self-antigen but rather an abnormal disease-associated antigen (DAA). This distinction, which can be made for many known TAAs, has broad implications for the design and acceptance of preventative cancer vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela L Beatty
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xiao X, Wang L, Wei P, Chi Y, Li D, Wang Q, Ni S, Tan C, Sheng W, Sun M, Zhou X, Du X. Role of MUC20 overexpression as a predictor of recurrence and poor outcome in colorectal cancer. J Transl Med 2013; 11:151. [PMID: 23787019 PMCID: PMC3702436 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-11-151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2013] [Accepted: 06/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most common cancers worldwide. We observed that MUC20 was significantly up-regulated in CRC patients with poor prognosis based on the microarray analysis. However, little is known about the role of MUC20 in CRC. Methods Microarray experiments were performed on the Affymetrix U133 plus 2.0 GeneChip Array. The protein and mRNA levels of MUC20 were examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Real-Time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) in CRC tissues and adjacent noncancerous tissues (ANCT). ShRNA and overexpression plasmids were used to regulate MUC20 expression in CRC cell lines in vitro; wound healing, Transwell migration assays, and Western blotting were used to detect migration and invasion changes. Results MUC20 was one of the up-regulated genes in CRC patients with poor prognosis by microarray. Using IHC and RT-qPCR, we showed that MUC20 expression was significantly higher in CRC tissues than in ANCT (P < 0.05). We further showed that MUC20 overexpression was correlated with recurrence and poor outcome (P < 0.05). The Kaplan-Meier survival curves indicated that disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were significantly worse in CRC patients with MUC20 overexpression. The Cox multivariate analysis revealed that MUC20 overexpression and TNM stage were independent prognostic factors. Elevated expression of MUC20 in cells promoted migration and invasion, whereas ShRNA-mediated knockdown inhibited these processes. In addition, Western blotting demonstrated that MUC20-induced invasion was associated with MMP-2, MMP-3, and E-cadherin. Conclusions Cumulatively, MUC20 may serve as an important predictor of recurrence and poor outcome for CRC patients. MUC20 overexpression could enhance migration and invasion abilities of CRC cells. Translation of its roles into clinical practice will need further investigation and additional test validation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuying Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Budiu RA, Elishaev E, Brozick J, Lee M, Edwards RP, Kalinski P, Vlad AM. Immunobiology of human mucin 1 in a preclinical ovarian tumor model. Oncogene 2012; 32:3664-75. [PMID: 22964632 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2012.397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 07/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer is an aggressive malignancy, with a low 5-year median survival. Continued improvement on the development of more effective therapies depends in part on the availability of adequate preclinical models for in vivo testing of treatment efficacy. Mucin 1 (MUC1) glycoprotein is a tumor-associated antigen overexpressed in ovarian cancer cells, making it a potential target for immune therapy. To create a preclinical mouse model for MUC1-positive ovarian tumors, we generated triple transgenic (Tg) mice that heterozygously express human MUC1(+/-) as a transgene, and carry the conditional K-rasG12D oncoallele (loxP-Stop-loxP-K-ras(G12D/+)) and the floxed Pten gene (Pten/(loxP/loxP)). Injection of Cre recombinase-encoding adenovirus (AdCre) in the ovarian bursa of triple (MUC1KrasPten) Tg mice triggers ovarian tumors that, in analogy to human ovarian cancer, express strongly elevated MUC1 levels. The tumors metastasize loco-regionally and are accompanied by high serum MUC1, closely mimicking the human disease. Compared with the KrasPten mice with tumors, the MUC1KrasPten mice show increased loco-regional metastasis and augmented accumulation of CD4+Foxp3+ immune-suppressive regulatory T cells. Vaccination of MUC1KrasPten mice with type 1 polarized dendritic cells (DC1) loaded with a MUC1 peptide (DC1-MUC1) can circumvent tumor-mediated immune suppression in the host, activate multiple immune effector genes and effectively prolong survival. Our studies report the first human MUC1-expressing, orthotopic ovarian tumor model, reveal novel MUC1 functions in ovarian cancer biology and demonstrate its suitability as a target for immune-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R A Budiu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chang CYY, Chen Y, Lin WC, Chen CM, Chen CP, Lee SC, Sheu JJC, Tsai FJ. MUC2 polymorphisms are associated with endometriosis development and infertility: a case-control study. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2012; 13:15. [PMID: 22417007 PMCID: PMC3338096 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2350-13-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mucins are highly glycosylated proteins protecting and lubricating epithelial surface of respiratory, gastrointestinal and reproductive tracts. Members of the mucin protein family have been suggested to play an important role in development of endometriosis and infertility. This study investigates genetic association of mucin2 (MUC2) with the risk of endometriosis and endometriosis-related infertility. METHODS This case-control study was conducted at China Medical University Hospital, with 195 endometriosis patients and 196 healthy controls enrolled. Genotyping of six SNPs (rs2856111, rs11245936, rs10794288, rs10902088, rs7103978 and rs11245954) within MUC2 gene were performed by using Taqman genotyping assay; individual SNP and haplotype associations with endometriosis and endometriosis-related infertility were assessed by χ² test. RESULTS Endometriosis patients exhibit significantly lower frequency of the rs10794288 C allele, the rs10902088 T allele and the rs7103978 G allele (P = 0.030, 0.013 and 0.040, respectively). In addition, the rs10794288 C allele and the rs10902088 T allele were also less abundant in patients with infertility versus fertile ones (P = 0.015 and 0.024, respectively). Haplotype analysis of the endometriosis associated SNPs in MUC2 also showed significantly association between the most common haplotypes and endometriosis or endometriosis-related infertility. CONCLUSIONS MUC2 polymorphisms, especially rs10794288 and rs10902088, are associated with endometriosis as well as endometriosis-related infertility. Our data present MUC2 as a new candidate involved in development of endometriosis and related infertility in Taiwanese Han women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cherry Yin-Yi Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, 2 Yude Road, 40402 Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Patankar MS, Gubbels JAA, Felder M, Connor JP. The immunomodulating roles of glycoproteins in epithelial ovarian cancer. Front Biosci (Elite Ed) 2012; 4:631-50. [PMID: 22201900 DOI: 10.2741/405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The complexity of the immune system demands an intricate defense mechanism by tumors. Ovarian and other tumors employ specific glycoproteins and the associated glycan sequences to modulate immune responses. Glycoproteins enable tumor cells that express or secrete these molecules to evade immune cell attack and induce the immune system to promote tumor growth. This review focuses first on the immune environment in ovarian cancer, and the mechanisms of activation and inhibition that immune cells undergo in order to either attack or ignore a target cell. Next we illustrate the immunomodulatory roles of ovarian cancer-associated glycans and glycoproteins in 1. preventing immune synapse formation, 2. serving as ligands of immune cell receptors, 3. scavenging cytokines and chemokines, and 4. participating in the formation of autoantibodies against the tumor. The importance of these immunomodulating strategies from the view points of understanding the tumor immunology of ovarian tumors, potential origin of such mechanisms, and specific strategies to circumvent the glycoconjugate-mediated suppression of immune responses is discussed in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manish S Patankar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI 53792-6188, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Luborsky JL, Yu Y, Edassery SL, Jaffar J, Yip YY, Liu P, Hellstrom KE, Hellstrom I. Autoantibodies to mesothelin in infertility. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2011; 20:1970-8. [PMID: 21846819 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-11-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to extensive epidemiologic data, infertility is associated with increased ovarian cancer risk. Previous studies showed that both women with infertility and those with ovarian cancer have autoantibodies to ovarian antigens. The objective was to determine if women with infertility have antibodies to mesothelin, a well-characterized ovarian cancer antigen. METHODS Sera were obtained from women with infertility (n = 109), ovarian cancer (n = 28), benign ovarian tumors or cysts (n = 24), and from healthy women (n = 152). Infertility included those with a risk for ovarian cancer; endometriosis (n = 23), ovulatory dysfunction (n = 17), premature ovarian failure (POF; n = 25) and unexplained infertility (n = 44). Sera were assayed for mesothelin antibodies and for circulating mesothelin antigen by immunoassay and compared with assay control sera (n = 16) to determine a positive result. RESULTS Mesothelin antibodies were significantly more frequent in women with prematurely reduced ovarian function including ovulatory dysfunction (59%), ovarian failure (44%) and unexplained infertility (25%) compared with controls. In contrast, women with endometriosis, who also have a high risk for ovarian cancer, did not have mesothelin antibodies. Serum levels of mesothelin were rarely elevated in women with infertility but were high in most patients with ovarian cancer. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPACT We show for the first time that antibodies to mesothelin, a well-characterized ovarian cancer antigen, occur in some women with epidemiologic risk for ovarian cancer. The results suggest it may be possible to identify which women with infertility have ovarian cancer risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith L Luborsky
- Department of Pharmacology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Nezhat F, Datta MS, Hanson V, Pejovic T, Nezhat C, Nezhat C. The relationship of endometriosis and ovarian malignancy: a review. Fertil Steril 2008; 90:1559-70. [PMID: 18993168 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2008] [Accepted: 08/05/2008] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the malignant potential of endometriosis based on epidemiologic, histopathologic, and molecular data. DESIGN Literature review. RESULT(S) The pathogenesis of endometriosis remains unclear. The histopathologic development of endometriosis has undergone long-term investigation. Studies have confirmed histologic transition from benign endometriosis to ovarian malignancy, including malignant transformation of extraovarian endometriosis. The prevalence of endometriosis in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer, especially in endometrioid and clear cell types, has been confirmed to be higher than in the general population. Ovarian cancers and adjacent endometriotic lesions have shown common genetic alterations, such as PTEN, p53, and bcl gene mutations, suggesting a possible malignant genetic transition spectrum. Furthermore, endometriosis has been associated with a chronic inflammatory state leading to cytokine release. These cytokines act in a complex system in which they induce or repress their own synthesis and can cause unregulated mitotic division, growth and differentiation, and migration or apoptosis similar to malignant mechanisms. CONCLUSION(S) The malignant potential of endometriosis holds serious implications for management, such as the need for earlier and more meticulous surgical intervention for complete disease treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farr Nezhat
- Department of Obstetrics, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York 10019, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Salivary gland carcinosarcoma: oligonucleotide array CGH reveals similar genomic profiles in epithelial and mesenchymal components. Oral Oncol 2008; 45:259-65. [PMID: 18693132 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2008.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2008] [Revised: 04/14/2008] [Accepted: 05/01/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we present a case of parotid gland de novo carcinosarcoma. Salivary gland carcinosarcoma (or true malignant mixed tumor) is a rare biphasic neoplasm, composed of both malignant epithelial and malignant mesenchymal components. It is yet unclear whether these two phenotypes occur by collision of two independent tumors or if they are of clonal origin. To analyze the clonality of the different morphologic tumor components, oligonucleotide microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (oaCGH) was performed on the carcinoma and the sarcoma entity separately. This technique enables a high-resolution, genome-wide overview of the chromosomal alterations in the distinct tumor elements. Analysis of both fractions showed a high number of DNA copy number changes. Losses were more prevalent than gains (82 and 49, respectively). The carcinomatous element displayed more chromosomal aberrations than the sarcomatous component. Specific amplifications of MUC20 (in mesenchymal element) and BMI-1 (in both elements) loci were observed. Overall homology between the two genomic profiles was 75%. DNA copy number profiles of the epithelial and mesenchymal components in this salivary gland carcinosarcoma displayed extensive overlap, indicating a monoclonal origin. Since losses are shared to a larger extent than gains, they seem to be more essential for initial oncogenic events. Furthermore, specific amplifications of a mucin and a Polycomb group gene imply these proteins in the tumorigenesis of carcinosarcomas.
Collapse
|