1
|
Richter S, Steenblock C, Fischer A, Lemm S, Ziegler CG, Bechmann N, Nölting S, Pietzsch J, Ullrich M. Improving susceptibility of neuroendocrine tumors to radionuclide therapies: personalized approaches towards complementary treatments. Theranostics 2024; 14:17-32. [PMID: 38164150 PMCID: PMC10750207 DOI: 10.7150/thno.87345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Radionuclide therapies are an important tool for the management of patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). Especially [131I]MIBG and [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE are routinely used for the treatment of a subset of NENs, including pheochromocytomas, paragangliomas and gastroenteropancreatic tumors. Some patients suffering from other forms of NENs, such as medullary thyroid carcinoma or neuroblastoma, were shown to respond to radionuclide therapy; however, no general recommendations exist. Although [131I]MIBG and [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE can delay disease progression and improve quality of life, complete remissions are achieved rarely. Hence, better individually tailored combination regimes are required. This review summarizes currently applied radionuclide therapies in the context of NENs and informs about recent advances in the development of theranostic agents that might enable targeting subgroups of NENs that previously did not respond to [131I]MIBG or [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE. Moreover, molecular pathways involved in NEN tumorigenesis and progression that mediate features of radioresistance and are particularly related to the stemness of cancer cells are discussed. Pharmacological inhibition of such pathways might result in radiosensitization or general complementary antitumor effects in patients with certain genetic, transcriptomic, or metabolic characteristics. Finally, we provide an overview of approved targeted agents that might be beneficial in combination with radionuclide therapies in the context of a personalized molecular profiling approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Richter
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Charlotte Steenblock
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alessa Fischer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), and University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sandy Lemm
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, School of Science, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian G. Ziegler
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- University Hospital Würzburg, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Bechmann
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Svenja Nölting
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), and University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jens Pietzsch
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, School of Science, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Ullrich
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gild ML, Clifton-Bligh RJ, Wirth LJ, Robinson BG. Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Updates and Challenges. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:934-946. [PMID: 37204852 PMCID: PMC10656709 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnad013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
A personalized approach to the management of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) presents several challenges; however, in the past decade significant progress has been made in both diagnostic and treatment modalities. Germline rearranged in transfection (RET) testing in multiple endocrine neoplasia 2 and 3, and somatic RET testing in sporadic MTC have revolutionized the treatment options available to patients. Positron emission tomography imaging with novel radioligands has improved characterization of disease and a new international grading system can predict prognosis. Systemic therapy for persistent and metastatic disease has evolved significantly with targeted kinase therapy especially for those harboring germline or somatic RET variants. Selpercatinib and pralsetinib are highly selective RET kinase inhibitors that have shown improved progression-free survival with better tolerability than outcomes seen in earlier multikinase inhibitor studies. Here we discuss changes in paradigms for MTC patients: from determining RET alteration status upfront to novel techniques for the evaluation of this heterogenous disease. Successes and challenges with kinase inhibitor use will illustrate how managing this rare malignancy continues to evolve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matti L Gild
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney 2065, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney 2065, Australia
| | - Roderick J Clifton-Bligh
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney 2065, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney 2065, Australia
| | - Lori J Wirth
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, & Harvard Medical School, Boston 02114, USA
| | - Bruce G Robinson
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney 2065, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney 2065, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ricci C, Salvemini A, Dalmiglio C, Castagna MG, Cantara S. From Circulating Tumor Cells to Mirna: New Challenges in the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4009. [PMID: 37568824 PMCID: PMC10417429 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15154009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a malignant tumor that arises from parafollicular C cells, which are responsible for producing calcitonin. The majority (75%) of MTC cases are sporadic forms, while the remaining (25%) have a hereditary component. In these hereditary cases, MTC can occur in conjunction with other endocrine disorders (i.e., pheochromocytoma) or as an isolated condition known as familial medullary thyroid carcinoma. The primary genetic mutation associated with the development of MTC, regardless of its hereditary or sporadic nature, is a point mutation in the RET gene. Evaluation of serum calcitonin levels represents the most reliable and sensitive marker for both the initial diagnosis and the postsurgical monitoring of MTC. Unfortunately, most patients do not achieve normalization of postsurgical serum calcitonin (CT) levels after surgery. Therefore, there is a need to find new biomarkers to be used with serum CT in order to increase test sensitivity and specificity. In this review, we summarize the literature from 2010 to 2023 to review the role of circulating tumor cells, cell-free DNA, and miRNA and their application in diagnosis, outcome of MTC, and response to treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Silvia Cantara
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.R.); (A.S.); (C.D.); (M.G.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Derwich A, Sykutera M, Bromińska B, Rubiś B, Ruchała M, Sawicka-Gutaj N. The Role of Activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAF/MEK/ERK Pathways in Aggressive Pituitary Adenomas-New Potential Therapeutic Approach-A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10952. [PMID: 37446128 PMCID: PMC10341524 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pituitary tumors (PT) are mostly benign, although occasionally they demonstrate aggressive behavior, invasion of surrounding tissues, rapid growth, resistance to conventional treatments, and multiple recurrences. The pathogenesis of PT is still not fully understood, and the factors responsible for its invasiveness, aggressiveness, and potential for metastasis are unknown. RAF/MEK/ERK and mTOR signaling are significant pathways in the regulation of cell growth, proliferation, and survival, its importance in tumorigenesis has been highlighted. The aim of our review is to determine the role of the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAF/MEK/ERK pathways in the pathogenesis of pituitary tumors. Additionally, we evaluate their potential in a new therapeutic approach to provide alternative therapies and improved outcomes for patients with aggressive pituitary tumors that do not respond to standard treatment. We perform a systematic literature search using the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases (search date was 2012-2023). Out of the 529 screened studies, 13 met the inclusion criteria, 7 related to the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, and 7 to the RAF/MEK/ERK pathway (one study was used in both analyses). Understanding the specific factors involved in PT tumorigenesis provides opportunities for targeted therapies. We also review the possible new targeted therapies and the use of mTOR inhibitors and TKI in PT management. Although the RAF/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways play a pivotal role in the complex signaling network along with many interactions, further research is urgently needed to clarify the exact functions and the underlying mechanisms of these signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of pituitary adenomas and their role in its invasiveness and aggressive clinical outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Derwich
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-355 Poznan, Poland; (A.D.)
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-812 Poznan, Poland
| | - Monika Sykutera
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-355 Poznan, Poland; (A.D.)
| | - Barbara Bromińska
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-355 Poznan, Poland; (A.D.)
| | - Błażej Rubiś
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-355 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marek Ruchała
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-355 Poznan, Poland; (A.D.)
| | - Nadia Sawicka-Gutaj
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-355 Poznan, Poland; (A.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pecar G, Liu S, Hooda J, Atkinson JM, Oesterreich S, Lee AV. RET signaling in breast cancer therapeutic resistance and metastasis. Breast Cancer Res 2023; 25:26. [PMID: 36918928 PMCID: PMC10015789 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-023-01622-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
RET, a single-pass receptor tyrosine kinase encoded on human chromosome 10, is well known to the field of developmental biology for its role in the ontogenesis of the central and enteric nervous systems and the kidney. In adults, RET alterations have been characterized as drivers of non-small cell lung cancer and multiple neuroendocrine neoplasms. In breast cancer, RET signaling networks have been shown to influence diverse functions including tumor development, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. While RET is known to drive the development and progression of multiple solid tumors, therapeutic agents selectively targeting RET are relatively new, though multiple multi-kinase inhibitors have shown promise as RET inhibitors in the past; further, RET has been historically neglected as a potential therapeutic co-target in endocrine-refractory breast cancers despite mounting evidence for a key pathologic role and repeated description of a bi-directional relationship with the estrogen receptor, the principal driver of most breast tumors. Additionally, the recent discovery of RET enrichment in breast cancer brain metastases suggests a role for RET inhibition specific to advanced disease. This review assesses the status of research on RET in breast cancer and evaluates the therapeutic potential of RET-selective kinase inhibitors across major breast cancer subtypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Pecar
- Women's Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, The Assembly, Room 2051, 5051 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Simeng Liu
- Women's Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jagmohan Hooda
- Women's Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, The Assembly, Room 2051, 5051 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Jennifer M Atkinson
- Women's Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, The Assembly, Room 2051, 5051 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Steffi Oesterreich
- Women's Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, The Assembly, Room 2051, 5051 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Adrian V Lee
- Women's Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, The Assembly, Room 2051, 5051 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Clinical Implications of mTOR Expression in Papillary Thyroid Cancer—A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15061665. [PMID: 36980552 PMCID: PMC10046096 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15061665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) comprises approximately 80% of all thyroid malignancies. Although several etiological factors, such as age, gender, and irradiation, are already known to be involved in the development of PTC, the genetics of cancerogenesis remain undetermined. The mTOR pathway regulates several cellular processes that are critical for tumorigenesis. Activated mTOR is involved in the development and progression of PTC. Therefore, we performed a systematic review of papers studying the expression of the mTOR gene and protein and its relationship with PTC risk and clinical outcome. A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases (the search date was 2012–2022). Studies investigating the expression of mTOR in the peripheral blood or tissue of patients with PTC were deemed eligible for inclusion. Seven of the 286 screened studies met the inclusion criteria for mTOR gene expression and four for mTOR protein expression. We also analyzed the data on mTOR protein expression in PTC. We analyzed the association of mTOR expression with papillary thyroid cancer clinicopathological features, such as the TNM stage, BRAF V600E mutation, sex distribution, lymph node and distant metastases, and survival prognosis. Understanding specific factors involved in PTC tumorigenesis provides opportunities for targeted therapies. We also reviewed the possible new targeted therapies and the use of mTOR inhibitors in PTC. This topic requires further research with novel techniques to translate the achieved results to clinical application.
Collapse
|
7
|
Liu W, Lin T, Gong L. ZD6474 Attenuates Fibrosis and Inhibits Neovascularization in Human Pterygium by Suppressing AKT-mTOR Signaling Pathway. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023; 39:128-138. [PMID: 36576784 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2022.0127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the antifibrotic effect of ZD6474 in human pterygium fibroblasts (HPFs) and angiogenesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) compared with mitomycin C (MMC). Methods: Pterygium and tenon fibroblasts were isolated from patients undergoing surgery to culture HPFs and human tenon fibroblasts (HTFs). The effects of ZD6474 on HPF, HTF, and HUVEC proliferation and migration were detected using CCK8 and wound-healing assays, respectively. Fibrosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) were evaluated by western blotting [transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)1/2 and snail] and immunofluorescence (vimentin and α-smooth muscle actin). The antiangiogenic effect of ZD6474 on HUVECs was assessed using a tube formation assay. To determine the potential mechanism, the expression of phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT) and phosphorylated mTOR (p-mTOR) was evaluated by treatment with ZD6474 via western blotting. Results: ZD6474 robustly inhibited the proliferation and migration of HPFs rather than HTFs compared with those in the MMC group (**P < 0.01). In HPFs, fibrosis and EMT (vimentin, TGF-β1/2, and snail) were significantly reversed by ZD6474. MMC (>50 μg/mL) significantly reduced HTF viability, whereas ZD6474 (<5 μM/mL) did not decrease HTF viability. HUVEC proliferation and migration were clearly decreased, and tube formation was notably interrupted by ZD6474. Activation of p-AKT and p-mTOR was inhibited by ZD6474 treatment of HPFs and HUVECs. Conclusion: ZD6474 is more effective than MMC in reducing fibrosis and EMT in HPFs. In addition, ZD6474 was less toxic to HTFs. ZD6474 also exhibited antiangiogenic effects in HUVECs. This study may aid in the development of novel agents to prevent pterygium recurrence after pterygium excision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, The Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Huadong Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tong Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, The Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lan Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, The Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liu W, Chen Y, Song X, Xue Y, Zhang Y. ZD6474 attenuates TGF-β1-induced fibrosis in human Tenon fibroblasts and inhibits neovascularization via AKT-mTOR signaling pathway. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 43:1523-1536. [PMID: 36227401 PMCID: PMC10149462 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-022-02548-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the anti-fibrotic effect of ZD6474 (a novel inhibitor of VEGF and EGF) in TGF-β1 stimulated human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts (HTFs) and the anti-angiogenetic role in HUVECs, compared to that of mitomycin C (MMC). METHODS The effects of ZD6474 on cell proliferation or migration in TGF-β1-stimulated HTFs and HUVECs were determined, using CCK8 or wound healing assay, respectively. The typical markers of fibrosis in TGF-β1-stimuated HTFs were detected, vimentin by immunofluorescence, α-SMA and snail by western blot. Tube formation was applied to validate the anti-angiogenesis effect in HUVECs following ZD6474 treatment. Furthermore, phosphorylated AKT and mTOR (p-AKT and p-mTOR) were evaluated, compared to the standardized total AKT and mTOR, using western blot. RESULTS There was almost no decreased cell viability in HTFs following ZD6474 (≤ 1 μM/mL) treatment, but MMC (> 50 μg/mL) significantly impaired cell viability. ZD6474 significantly inhibited TGF-β1-stimulated proliferation and migration in HTFs, compared to control group (**P < 0.01). ZD6474 also significantly attenuated the TGF-β1-stimulated expression of vimentin, α-SMA and snail in HTFs. Tube formation was notably interrupted in HUVECs following ZD6474 treatment (**P < 0.01). P-AKT and p-mTOR were significantly decreased in response to ZD6474 treatment in TGF-β1- induced HTFs and HUVECs. CONCLUSIONS ZD6474 exerts anti-proliferation and anti-fibrotic effects in TGF-β1-stimulated HTFs perhaps via regulating AKT-mTOR signaling pathway. ZD6474 also inhibited proliferation, migration and tube formation in HUVECs via the same signaling pathway. We concluded that ZD6474 may be potentially a novel agent in preventing bleb dysfunction following glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Huadong Hospital, Fudan University, No. 221 East Yan'an Road, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Yaying Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangyuan Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiwen Xue
- Undergraduate School, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuyan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Huadong Hospital, Fudan University, No. 221 East Yan'an Road, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Agarwal N, Zhou Q, Arya D, Rinaldetti S, Duex J, LaBarbera DV, Theodorescu D. AST-487 Inhibits RET Kinase Driven TERT Expression in Bladder Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810819. [PMID: 36142729 PMCID: PMC9501578 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the promoter of the human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (hTERT) gene are common and associated with its elevated expression in bladder cancer, melanoma, and glioblastoma. Though these mutations and TERT overexpression are associated with aggressive disease and poor outcome, an incomplete understanding of mutant TERT regulation limits treatment options directed at this gene. Herein, we unravel a signaling pathway that leads to upregulated hTERT expression resulting from the −124 bp promoter mutation, the most frequent variant across human cancer. We employed engineered bladder cancer cells that harbor a GFP insertion at the TSS region on −124 hTERT promoter for high-content screening drug discovery using a focused library of ~800 kinase inhibitors. Studies using in vitro and in vivo models prioritized AST-487, an inhibitor of the wild-type, and mutant RET (rearranged during transfection) proto-oncogene as a novel drug inhibitor of both wild-type and mutant promoter-driven hTERT expression. We also identified the RET kinase pathway, targeted by AST-487, as a novel regulator of mutant hTERT promoter-driven transcription in bladder cancer cells. Collectively, our work provides new potential precision medicine approaches for cancer patients with upregulated hTERT expression, perhaps, especially those harboring mutations in both the RET gene and the hTERT promoter, such as in thyroid cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neeraj Agarwal
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Qiong Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- The CU Anschutz Center for Drug Discovery, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- The University of Colorado Cancer Center, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Deepak Arya
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Sébastien Rinaldetti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jason Duex
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Daniel V. LaBarbera
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- The CU Anschutz Center for Drug Discovery, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- The University of Colorado Cancer Center, The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Correspondence: (D.V.L.); (D.T.); Tel.: +1-310-423-8431 (D.T.)
| | - Dan Theodorescu
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Surgery (Urology), Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Correspondence: (D.V.L.); (D.T.); Tel.: +1-310-423-8431 (D.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Vodopivec DM, Hu MI. RET kinase inhibitors for RET-altered thyroid cancers. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2022; 14:17588359221101691. [PMID: 35756966 PMCID: PMC9218446 DOI: 10.1177/17588359221101691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Precision oncology has opened a new era in cancer treatment focused on targeting specific cellular pathways directly involved in tumorigenesis. The REarrangement during Transfection (RET) proto-oncogene is involved in the pathogenesis of various thyroid cancer subtypes. Mutations in RET give rise to both hereditary and sporadic medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). RET fusions are found in follicular cell-derived thyroid cancers (papillary, poorly differentiated, and anaplastic). Hence, drugs that block the RET tyrosine kinase receptor have been explored in the management of locally advanced or metastatic thyroid cancer. The multikinase inhibitors (MKIs) with nonselective RET inhibition are sorafenib, lenvatinib, vandetanib, cabozantinib, and sunitinib. Although the efficacy of these drugs varies, a major issue is the lack of specificity resulting in a higher rate of drug-related toxicities, leading to dose reduction, interruption, or discontinuation. Moreover, MKIs are subject to drug resistance by RET Val804 residue gatekeeper mutations. In phase I/II clinical studies, the highly selective first-generation RET inhibitors, selpercatinib and pralsetinib, demonstrate high efficacy in controlling disease even in the presence of gatekeeper mutations combined with greater tolerability. However, resistance mechanisms such as RET solvent front mutations (SFMs) have evolved in some patients, giving the need to develop the selective second-generation RET inhibitors. Although the approval of selpercatinib and pralsetinib in 2020 has profoundly benefited patients with RET-altered thyroid cancer, further research into optimal treatment strategies, mechanisms of drug resistance, long-term consequences of potent RET-inhibition, and development of more effective agents against emergent mutations are much needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danica M Vodopivec
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4000, USA
| | - Mimi I Hu
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Angelousi A, Hayes AR, Chatzellis E, Kaltsas GA, Grossman AB. Metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma: a new way forward. Endocr Relat Cancer 2022; 29:R85-R103. [PMID: 35521769 PMCID: PMC9175549 DOI: 10.1530/erc-21-0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare malignancy comprising 1-2% of all thyroid cancers in the United States. Approximately 20% of cases are familial, secondary to a germline RET mutation, while the remaining 80% are sporadic and also harbour a somatic RET mutation in more than half of all cases. Up to 15-20% of patients will present with distant metastatic disease, and retrospective series report a 10-year survival of 10-40% from time of first metastasis. Historically, systemic therapies for metastatic MTC have been limited, and cytotoxic chemotherapy has demonstrated poor objective response rates. However, in the last decade, targeted therapies, particularly multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have demonstrated prolonged progression-free survival in advanced and progressive MTC. Both cabozantinib and vandetanib have been approved as first-line treatment options in many countries; nevertheless, their use is limited by high toxicity rates and dose reductions are often necessary. New generation TKIs, such as selpercatinib or pralsetinib, that exhibit selective activity against RET, have recently been approved as a second-line treatment option, and they exhibit a more favourable side-effect profile. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy or immune checkpoint inhibitors may also constitute potential therapeutic options in specific clinical settings. In this review, we aim to present all current therapeutic options available for patients with progressive MTC, as well as new or as yet experimental treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Angelousi
- Unit of Endocrinology, First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Angelousi or A B Grossman: or
| | - Aimee R Hayes
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Eleftherios Chatzellis
- Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism Department, 251 Hellenic Air Force and VA General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Gregory A Kaltsas
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Laiko Hospital, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ashley B Grossman
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
- Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine, London, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Angelousi or A B Grossman: or
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Exploring the synergistic effects of cabozantinib and a programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitor in metastatic renal cell carcinoma with machine learning. Oncotarget 2022; 13:237-256. [PMID: 35106125 PMCID: PMC8794707 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical evidence supports the combination of cabozantinib with an immune checkpoint inhibitor for the treatment of metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mccRCC) and suggests a synergistic antitumour activity of this combination. Nevertheless, the biological basis of this synergy is not fully characterized. We studied the mechanisms underpinning the potential synergism of cabozantinib combined with a PD1 inhibitor in mccRCC and delved into cabozantinib monotherapy properties supporting its role to partner these combinations. To model physiological drug action, we used a machine learning-based technology known as Therapeutic Performance Mapping Systems, applying two approaches: Artificial Neural Networks and Sampling Methods. We found that the combined therapy was predicted to exert a wide therapeutic action in the tumour and the microenvironment. Cabozantinib may enhance the effects of PD1 inhibitors on immunosurveillance by modulating the innate and adaptive immune system, through the inhibition of VEGF-VEGFR and Gas6-AXL/TYRO3/MER (TAM) axes, while the PD1 inhibitors may boost the antiangiogenic and pro–apoptotic effects of cabozantinib by modulating angiogenesis and T-cell cytotoxicity. Cabozantinib alone was predicted to restore cellular adhesion and hamper tumour proliferation and invasion. These data provide a biological rationale and further support for cabozantinib plus PD1 inhibitor combination and may guide future nonclinical and clinical research.
Collapse
|
13
|
Gild ML, Tsang VHM, Clifton-Bligh RJ, Robinson BG. Multikinase inhibitors in thyroid cancer: timing of targeted therapy. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2021; 17:225-234. [PMID: 33603220 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-020-00465-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In the 9 years since the publication of our 2011 review of targeted treatment of thyroid cancer with multikinase inhibitors, much has changed in the landscape of this heterogeneous disease. New multikinase and selective inhibitor treatments for medullary thyroid cancer, radioiodine-refractory thyroid cancer and anaplastic thyroid cancer have completed trials and improved progression-free survival. Many physicians are concerned by dose-limiting adverse effects of these drugs and are wary to begin treatment in patients who are systemically well but have marked disease burden, which makes the timing of treatment initiation challenging. Published mechanistic data on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have helped guide our understanding of how to dose effectively with these drugs. A major goal in TKI therapy is to optimize inhibition of oncogenic kinase drivers while maintaining patient quality of life. Real-world data have now been published on how TKIs have fared outside the clinical trial environment. In this Review, we provide a summary of published data on the efficacy of TKIs in clinical practice, to provide clinicians with a more realistic view of how their patients will manage and respond to TKI therapy. Furthermore, we review the data on mechanisms of inhibition, outcomes and adverse effects of TKIs and provide an update on targeted treatment of thyroid cancer, focusing on optimizing the timing of treatment initiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matti L Gild
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Venessa H M Tsang
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Roderick J Clifton-Bligh
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce G Robinson
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cascone T, Sacks RL, Subbiah IM, Drobnitzky N, Piha-Paul SA, Hong DS, Hess KR, Amini B, Bhatt T, Fu S, Naing A, Janku F, Karp D, Falchook GS, Conley AP, Sherman SI, Meric-Bernstam F, Ryan AJ, Heymach JV, Subbiah V. Safety and activity of vandetanib in combination with everolimus in patients with advanced solid tumors: a phase I study. ESMO Open 2021; 6:100079. [PMID: 33721621 PMCID: PMC7973128 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2021.100079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preclinical studies suggest that combining vandetanib (VAN), a multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor of rearranged during transfection (RET) proto-oncogene, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), with everolimus (EV), a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, may improve antitumor activity. We determined the safety, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), recommended phase II dose (RP2D), and dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) of VAN + EV in patients with advanced solid cancers and the effect of combination therapy on cancer cell proliferation and intracellular pathways. Patients and methods Patients with refractory solid tumors were enrolled in a phase I dose-escalation trial testing VAN (100-300 mg orally daily) + EV (2.5-10 mg orally daily). Objective responses were evaluated using RECIST v1.1. RET mutant cancer cell lines were used in cell-based studies. Results Among 80 patients enrolled, 72 (90%) patients were evaluable: 7 achieved partial response (PR) (10%) and 37 had stable disease (SD) (51%; duration range: 1-27 cycles). Clinical benefit (SD or PR ≥ 6 months) was observed in 26 evaluable patients [36%, 95% confidence intervals (CI) (25% to 49%)]. In 80 patients, median overall survival (OS) was 10.5 months [95% CI (8.5-16.1)] and median progression-free survival (PFS) 4.1 months [95% CI (3.4-7.3)]. Six patients (7.5%) experienced DLTs and 20 (25%) required dose modifications. VAN + EV was safe, with fatigue, rash, diarrhea, and mucositis being the most common toxicities. In cell-based studies, combination therapy was superior to monotherapy at inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and intracellular signaling. Conclusions The MTDs and RP2Ds of VAN + EV are 300 mg and 10 mg, respectively. VAN + EV combination is safe and active in refractory solid tumors. Further investigation is warranted in RET pathway aberrant tumors. VAN + EV is safe, active and provides clinical benefit in some patients with refractory solid cancers. Dual therapy is superior to monotherapy at inhibiting proliferation and intracellular signaling of RET mutant cancer cells. This study highlights the importance of identifying novel combination therapies to overcome therapeutic resistance. Next-generation sequencing of advanced solid tumors may inform treatment strategies and guide future drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Cascone
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA.
| | - R L Sacks
- Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - I M Subbiah
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - N Drobnitzky
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Research UK and Medical Research Council Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - S A Piha-Paul
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - D S Hong
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - K R Hess
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - B Amini
- Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - T Bhatt
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - S Fu
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - A Naing
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - F Janku
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - D Karp
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - G S Falchook
- Sarah Cannon Research Institute at HealthONE, Denver, USA
| | - A P Conley
- Department of Sarcoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - S I Sherman
- Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - F Meric-Bernstam
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - A J Ryan
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Research UK and Medical Research Council Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - J V Heymach
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - V Subbiah
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lu C, Zhou Q. Diagnostics, therapeutics and RET inhibitor resistance for RET fusion-positive non-small cell lung cancers and future perspectives. Cancer Treat Rev 2021; 96:102153. [PMID: 33773204 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2021.102153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Selective RET inhibitors is the current hot topic, making multikinase inhibitors a thing of the past. However, the limitation of various test approaches, coupled with lack of knowledge of acquired resistance mechanisms, and specific patient groups that bear special consideration, remains a challenge. Herein, we outline utility of various diagnostic techniques, provide evidence to guide management of RET-fusion-positive Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) patients, including specific patient groups, such as EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients who acquired RET fusions after resisting EGFR TKIs, and offer a compendium of mechanisms of acquired resistance to RET targeted therapies. This review further provides a list of ongoing clinical trials and summarizes perspectives to guide future development of drugs and trials for this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Lu
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Zhou
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Belli C, Anand S, Gainor JF, Penault-Llorca F, Subbiah V, Drilon A, Andrè F, Curigliano G. Progresses Toward Precision Medicine in RET-altered Solid Tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 26:6102-6111. [PMID: 32665298 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-1587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
RET (rearranged during transfection) gene encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase essential for many physiologic functions, but RET aberrations are involved in many pathologies. While RET loss-of-function mutations are associated with congenital disorders like Hirschsprung disease and CAKUT, RET gain-of-function mutations and rearrangements are critical drivers of tumor growth and proliferation in many different cancers. RET-altered (RET+ ) tumors have been hitherto targeted with multikinase inhibitors (MKI) having anti-RET activities, but they inhibit other kinase targets more potently and show limited clinical activities. The lack of target specificity and consequently increased side effects, responsible for dose reduction and drug discontinuation, are critical limitations of MKIs in the clinics. New selective RET inhibitors, selpercatinib and pralsetinib, are showing promising activities, improved response rates, and more favorable toxicity profiles in early clinical trials. This review critically discusses the oncogenic activation of RET and its role in different kinds of tumors, clinical features of RET+ tumors, clinically actionable genetic RET alterations and their diagnosis, and the available data and results of nonselective and selective targeting of RET.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Belli
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Santosh Anand
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development (GEDEV), Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Informatics, Systems and Communications (DISCo), University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Frederique Penault-Llorca
- Department of Biopathology, Centre Jean Perrin and University Clermont Auvergne/INSERM U1240, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Vivek Subbiah
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Alexander Drilon
- Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York.,Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | | | - Giuseppe Curigliano
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy. .,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Qu N, Shi X, Zhao JJ, Guan H, Zhang TT, Wen SS, Liao T, Hu JQ, Liu WY, Wang YL, Huang S, Shi RL, Wang Y, Ji QH. Genomic and Transcriptomic Characterization of Sporadic Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma. Thyroid 2020; 30:1025-1036. [PMID: 32031055 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2019.0531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: Sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a relatively uncommon neuroendocrine malignancy and the molecular tumorigenesis of its sporadic type (sMTC) is only partially understood. In this study, we performed a study focusing on the genomic and transcriptomic characterization of sMTC. Methods: Twenty-nine sMTC patients were included. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was carried out in 18 patients, including both tumor samples and matched noncancerous tissues. Whole transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq) was performed in all 29 tumors. WES, RNA-Seq, and copy number alteration (CNA) data were analyzed. A Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to evaluate cell proliferation. Results: Among the somatic mutations, RET was the only recurrently cancer-related mutated gene (5/18, 27.8%). In the germline, FAT1 and FAT4, two members of the FAT gene family, were identified as the two most common mutated genes. CNA analysis found that FAT1 and FAT4, both located on chromosome 4q, were also two of the genes most commonly affected by somatic chromosomal deletions (4/18, 22.2%). Using TT and MZ-CRC-1 cell lines, the CCK-8 assay showed that FAT1 and FAT4 knockdown could promote MTC cell proliferation. Based on the gene expression profile, patients were clustered into two molecular subtypes: the mesenchymal-like subtype is characterized by epithelial-mesenchymal transition, while the proliferative-like subtype is associated with enrichment of cell cycle pathways. Most events of structural recurrence (80%) occurred in the proliferative-like subtype. Conclusion: In addition to RET, these findings demonstrate that FAT1/FAT4 genomic alterations appear to be frequent in sMTC. Two molecular subtypes of sMTC with distinct biological behavior could be identified. However, these results need to be validated by larger samples and more comprehensive experiments in the future, especially for the frequency and function of FAT1/FAT4 germline variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Qu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Shi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing-Jing Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haixia Guan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The First Hospital of China Medical University, China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Ting-Ting Zhang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Shuai Wen
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tian Liao
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Qian Hu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Yan Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Minhang Hospital; Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Long Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shenglin Huang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong-Liang Shi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Hai Ji
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Subbiah V, Cote GJ. Advances in Targeting RET-Dependent Cancers. Cancer Discov 2020; 10:498-505. [PMID: 32094155 PMCID: PMC7125013 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-19-1116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
RET alterations have been characterized as oncogenic drivers in multiple cancers. The clinical validation of highly selective RET inhibitors demonstrates the utility of specific targeting of aberrantly activated RET in patients with cancers such as medullary thyroid cancer or non-small cell lung cancer. The remarkable responses observed have opened the field of RET-targeted inhibitors. In this review, we seek to focus on the impact of therapeutic RET targeting in cancers. SIGNIFICANCE: Successful clinical translation of selective RET inhibitors is poised to alter the therapeutic landscape of altered cancers. Questions that clearly need to be addressed relate to the ability to maintain long-term inhibition of tumor cell growth, how to prepare for the potential mechanisms of acquired resistance, and the development of next-generation selective RET inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Subbiah
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- MD Anderson Cancer Network, Houston, Texas
| | - Gilbert J Cote
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Varešlija D, Priedigkeit N, Fagan A, Purcell S, Cosgrove N, O'Halloran PJ, Ward E, Cocchiglia S, Hartmaier R, Castro CA, Zhu L, Tseng GC, Lucas PC, Puhalla SL, Brufsky AM, Hamilton RL, Mathew A, Leone JP, Basudan A, Hudson L, Dwyer R, Das S, O'Connor DP, Buckley PG, Farrell M, Hill ADK, Oesterreich S, Lee AV, Young LS. Transcriptome Characterization of Matched Primary Breast and Brain Metastatic Tumors to Detect Novel Actionable Targets. J Natl Cancer Inst 2020; 111:388-398. [PMID: 29961873 PMCID: PMC6449168 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djy110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer brain metastases (BrMs) are defined by complex adaptations to both adjuvant treatment regimens and the brain microenvironment. Consequences of these alterations remain poorly understood, as does their potential for clinical targeting. We utilized genome-wide molecular profiling to identify therapeutic targets acquired in metastatic disease. METHODS Gene expression profiling of 21 patient-matched primary breast tumors and their associated brain metastases was performed by TrueSeq RNA-sequencing to determine clinically actionable BrM target genes. Identified targets were functionally validated using small molecule inhibitors in a cohort of resected BrM ex vivo explants (n = 4) and in a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model of BrM. All statistical tests were two-sided. RESULTS Considerable shifts in breast cancer cell-specific gene expression profiles were observed (1314 genes upregulated in BrM; 1702 genes downregulated in BrM; DESeq; fold change > 1.5, Padj < .05). Subsequent bioinformatic analysis for readily druggable targets revealed recurrent gains in RET expression and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) signaling. Small molecule inhibition of RET and HER2 in ex vivo patient BrM models (n = 4) resulted in statistically significantly reduced proliferation (P < .001 in four of four models). Furthermore, RET and HER2 inhibition in a PDX model of BrM led to a statistically significant antitumor response vs control (n = 4, % tumor growth inhibition [mean difference; SD], anti-RET = 86.3% [1176; 258.3], P < .001; anti-HER2 = 91.2% [1114; 257.9], P < .01). CONCLUSIONS RNA-seq profiling of longitudinally collected specimens uncovered recurrent gene expression acquisitions in metastatic tumors, distinct from matched primary tumors. Critically, we identify aberrations in key oncogenic pathways and provide functional evidence for their suitability as therapeutic targets. Altogether, this study establishes recurrent, acquired vulnerabilities in BrM that warrant immediate clinical investigation and suggests paired specimen expression profiling as a compelling and underutilized strategy to identify targetable dependencies in advanced cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damir Varešlija
- Endocrine Oncology Research Group, Department of Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nolan Priedigkeit
- Pharmacology and Chemical Biology.,Women's Cancer Research Center, Magee-Women's Research Institute
| | - Ailís Fagan
- Endocrine Oncology Research Group, Department of Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Siobhan Purcell
- Endocrine Oncology Research Group, Department of Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nicola Cosgrove
- Endocrine Oncology Research Group, Department of Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Philip J O'Halloran
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neurosurgical Center, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elspeth Ward
- Endocrine Oncology Research Group, Department of Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sinéad Cocchiglia
- Endocrine Oncology Research Group, Department of Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Carlos A Castro
- Women's Cancer Research Center, Magee-Women's Research Institute
| | - Li Zhu
- Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh, PA
| | - George C Tseng
- Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh, PA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lance Hudson
- Surgical Research, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Róisín Dwyer
- Discipline of Surgery, School of Medicine, Lambe Institute for Translational Research, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | | | | | | | | | - Arnold D K Hill
- Surgical Research, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Steffi Oesterreich
- Pharmacology and Chemical Biology.,Women's Cancer Research Center, Magee-Women's Research Institute
| | - Adrian V Lee
- Pharmacology and Chemical Biology.,Human Genetics.,Women's Cancer Research Center, Magee-Women's Research Institute
| | - Leonie S Young
- Endocrine Oncology Research Group, Department of Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Joo LJS, Weiss J, Gill AJ, Clifton-Bligh R, Brahmbhatt H, MacDiarmid JA, Gild ML, Robinson BG, Zhao JT, Sidhu SB. RET Kinase-Regulated MicroRNA-153-3p Improves Therapeutic Efficacy in Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma. Thyroid 2019; 29:830-844. [PMID: 30929576 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2018.0525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background: Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) presents a disproportionate number of thyroid cancer deaths due to limited treatment options beyond surgery. Gain-of-function mutations of the human REarranged during Transfection (RET) proto-oncogene have been well-established as the key driver of MTC tumorigenesis. RET has been targeted by tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), such as cabozantinib and vandetanib. However, clinical results have been disappointing, with regular dose reductions and inevitable progression. This study aimed to identify RET-regulated microRNAs (miRNAs) and explore their potential as novel therapeutic targets. Methods: Small RNA sequencing was performed in MTC TT cells before and after RET inhibition to identify RET-regulated miRNAs of significance. In vitro gain-of-function studies were performed to investigate cellular and molecular effects of potential miRNAs on cell phenotypes. Systemic delivery of miRNA in MTC xenografts using EDV™ nanocells, targeted to epidermal growth factor receptor on tumor cells, was employed to assess the therapeutic potential and possible modulation of TKI responses. Results: The study demonstrates the tumor suppressive role of a specific RET-regulated miRNA, microRNA-153-3p (miR-153-3p), in MTC. Targeted intravenous delivery of miR-153-3p impeded the tumor growth in MTC xenografts. Furthermore, combined treatment with miR-153-3p plus cabozantinib caused greater growth inhibition and appeared to reverse cabozantinib resistance. Mechanistically, miR-153-3p targets ribosomal protein S6 kinase B1 (RPS6KB1) of mTOR signaling and reduced downstream phosphorylation of Bcl-2 associated death promoter. Conclusion: This study provides evidence to establish systemic miRNA replacement plus TKIs as a novel therapeutic for patients with metastatic, progressive MTC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Jin Suk Joo
- 1 Cancer Genetics Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
- 2 Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Anthony J Gill
- 2 Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- 4 NSW Health Pathology, Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital and Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Roderick Clifton-Bligh
- 1 Cancer Genetics Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
- 2 Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- 5 Department of Endocrinology; University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Matti L Gild
- 1 Cancer Genetics Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
- 5 Department of Endocrinology; University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bruce G Robinson
- 1 Cancer Genetics Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
- 2 Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- 5 Department of Endocrinology; University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jing Ting Zhao
- 1 Cancer Genetics Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
- 2 Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stan B Sidhu
- 1 Cancer Genetics Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
- 2 Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- 6 University of Sydney Endocrine Surgery Unit; Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Driehuis E, Kolders S, Spelier S, Lõhmussaar K, Willems SM, Devriese LA, de Bree R, de Ruiter EJ, Korving J, Begthel H, van Es JH, Geurts V, He GW, van Jaarsveld RH, Oka R, Muraro MJ, Vivié J, Zandvliet MMJM, Hendrickx APA, Iakobachvili N, Sridevi P, Kranenburg O, van Boxtel R, Kops GJPL, Tuveson DA, Peters PJ, van Oudenaarden A, Clevers H. Oral Mucosal Organoids as a Potential Platform for Personalized Cancer Therapy. Cancer Discov 2019; 9:852-871. [PMID: 31053628 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-18-1522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have described that tumor organoids can capture the diversity of defined human carcinoma types. Here, we describe conditions for long-term culture of human mucosal organoids. Using this protocol, a panel of 31 head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)-derived organoid lines was established. This panel recapitulates genetic and molecular characteristics previously described for HNSCC. Organoids retain their tumorigenic potential upon xenotransplantation. We observe differential responses to a panel of drugs including cisplatin, carboplatin, cetuximab, and radiotherapy in vitro. Additionally, drug screens reveal selective sensitivity to targeted drugs that are not normally used in the treatment of patients with HNSCC. These observations may inspire a personalized approach to the management of HNSCC and expand the repertoire of HNSCC drugs. SIGNIFICANCE: This work describes the culture of organoids derived from HNSCC and corresponding normal epithelium. These tumoroids recapitulate the disease genetically, histologically, and functionally. In vitro drug screening of tumoroids reveals responses to therapies both currently used in the treatment of HNSCC and those not (yet) used in clinical practice.See related commentary by Hill and D'Andrea, p. 828.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 813.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Else Driehuis
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sigrid Kolders
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sacha Spelier
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kadi Lõhmussaar
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Stefan M Willems
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lot A Devriese
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Remco de Bree
- Department of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Emma J de Ruiter
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Korving
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Harry Begthel
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johan H van Es
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Veerle Geurts
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Gui-Wei He
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Richard H van Jaarsveld
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rurika Oka
- Princess Maxima Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mauro J Muraro
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Single Cell Discoveries, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Judith Vivié
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Single Cell Discoveries, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Maurice M J M Zandvliet
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Antoni P A Hendrickx
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nino Iakobachvili
- M4I Division of Nanoscopy, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Priya Sridevi
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York
| | - Onno Kranenburg
- Utrecht Platform for Organoid Technology (U-PORT), Utrecht Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Geert J P L Kops
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Peter J Peters
- M4I Division of Nanoscopy, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Alexander van Oudenaarden
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Clevers
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands. .,Princess Maxima Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mulligan LM. GDNF and the RET Receptor in Cancer: New Insights and Therapeutic Potential. Front Physiol 2019; 9:1873. [PMID: 30666215 PMCID: PMC6330338 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic Family Ligands (GFL) are soluble neurotrophic factors that are required for development of multiple human tissues, but which are also important contributors to human cancers. GFL signaling occurs through the transmembrane RET receptor tyrosine kinase, a well-characterized oncogene. GFL-independent RET activation, through rearrangement or point mutations occurs in thyroid and lung cancers. However, GFL-mediated activation of wildtype RET is an increasingly recognized mechanism promoting tumor growth and dissemination of a much broader group of cancers. RET and GFL expression have been implicated in metastasis or invasion in diverse human cancers including breast, pancreatic, and prostate tumors, where they are linked to poorer patient prognosis. In addition to directly inducing tumor growth in these diseases, GFL-RET signaling promotes changes in the tumor microenvironment that alter the surrounding stroma and cellular composition to enhance tumor invasion and metastasis. As such, GFL RET signaling is an important target for novel therapeutic approaches to limit tumor growth and spread and improve disease outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lois M. Mulligan
- Division of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Research Institute, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Mulligan LM. 65 YEARS OF THE DOUBLE HELIX: Exploiting insights on the RET receptor for personalized cancer medicine. Endocr Relat Cancer 2018; 25:T189-T200. [PMID: 29743166 DOI: 10.1530/erc-18-0141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The focus of precision cancer medicine is the use of patient genetic signatures to predict disease occurrence and course and tailor approaches to individualized treatment to improve patient outcomes. The rearranged during transfection (RET) receptor tyrosine kinase represents a paradigm for the power of personalized cancer management to change cancer impact and improve quality of life. Oncogenic activation of RET occurs through several mechanisms including activating mutations and increased or aberrant expression. Activating RET mutations found in the inherited cancer syndrome multiple endocrine neoplasia 2 permit early diagnosis, predict disease course and guide disease management to optimize patient survival. Rearrangements of RET found in thyroid and lung tumors provide insights on potential disease aggressiveness and offer opportunities for RET-targeted therapy. Aberrant RET expression in a subset of cases is associated with tumor dissemination, resistance to therapies and/or poorer prognosis in multiple cancers. The potential of RET targeting through repurposing of small-molecule multikinase inhibitors, selective RET inhibitors or other novel approaches provides exciting opportunities to individualize therapies across multiple pathologies where RET oncogenicity contributes to cancer outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lois M Mulligan
- Division of Cancer Biology and GeneticsCancer Research Institute, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular MedicineQueen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Evaluation of miRNAs expression in medullary thyroid carcinoma tissue samples: miR-34a and miR-144 as promising overexpressed markers in MTC. Hum Pathol 2018; 79:212-221. [PMID: 29885402 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2018.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neoplasia derived from neural parafollicular C cells. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small regulatory RNAs with essential roles in the biology of cancers such as MTC and can be applied as diagnostic markers. According to previous studies, miR-144 and miR-34 and their two oncogenes target, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and AXL receptor tyrosine kinase (AXL), were selected for further investigations in our study. Thirty MTC samples as well as thirty adjacent normal thyroid tissues were applied in this study including 28 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) and 2 fresh-frozen MTC samples. RNA extraction and complementary DNA (cDNA) synthesis were performed for all samples. After primer pairs and probes were designed, real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) method was used, and the results were analyzed using 2-ΔΔCt method. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied to assess the diagnostic value of the two miRNAs. AXL protein level was measured in all clinical samples using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Both miRNAs were up-regulated in all clinical samples compared to the normal tissues. AXL was up-regulated in most clinical samples while mTOR was down-regulated in most samples. Furthermore, the level of AXL protein increased. ROC curve analysis demonstrated that increased expression of miR-34a and miR-144 in MTC patients had significant predictive value. The results demonstrated that high expression of miR-144 and miR-34a can be considered as biomarkers of MTC. However, there was no statistically significant correlation between the expression of these miRNAs and target genes in MTC clinical samples.
Collapse
|
25
|
Cerrato A, Visconti R, Celetti A. The rationale for druggability of CCDC6-tyrosine kinase fusions in lung cancer. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:46. [PMID: 29455670 PMCID: PMC5817729 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0799-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene fusions occur in up to 17% of solid tumours. Oncogenic kinases are often involved in such fusions. In lung cancer, almost 30% of patients carrying an activated oncogene show the fusion of a tyrosine kinase to an heterologous gene. Several genes are partner in the fusion with the three kinases ALK, ROS1 and RET in lung. The impaired function of the partner gene, in combination with the activation of the kinase, may alter the cell signaling and promote the cancer cell addiction to the oncogene. Moreover, the gene that is partner in the fusion to the kinase may affect the response to therapeutics and/or promote resistance in the cancer cells. Few genes are recurrent partners in tyrosine kinase fusions in lung cancer, including CCDC6, a recurrent partner in ROS1 and RET fusions, that can be selected as possible target for new strategies of combined therapy including TKi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aniello Cerrato
- Institute for the Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", Italian National Council of Research, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Roberta Visconti
- Institute for the Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", Italian National Council of Research, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Celetti
- Institute for the Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", Italian National Council of Research, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kraft IL, Akshintala S, Zhu Y, Lei H, Derse-Anthony C, Dombi E, Steinberg SM, Lodish M, Waguespack SG, Kapustina O, Fox E, Balis FM, Merino MJ, Meltzer PS, Glod JW, Shern JF, Widemann BC. Outcomes of Children and Adolescents with Advanced Hereditary Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma Treated with Vandetanib. Clin Cancer Res 2018; 24:753-765. [PMID: 29187393 PMCID: PMC5815946 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-17-2101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Vandetanib is well-tolerated in patients with advanced medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Long-term outcomes and mechanisms of MTC progression have not been reported previously.Experimental Design: We monitored toxicities and disease status in patients taking vandetanib for hereditary, advanced MTC. Tumor samples were analyzed for molecular mechanisms of disease progression.Results: Seventeen patients [8 male, age 13 (9-17)* years] enrolled; 16 had a RET p.Met918Thr germline mutation. The duration of vandetanib therapy was 6.1 (0.1-9.7+)* years with treatment ongoing in 9 patients. Best response was partial response in 10, stable disease in 6, and progressive disease in one patient. Duration of response was 7.4 (0.6-8.7+)* and 4.9 (0.6-7.8+)* years in patients with PR and SD, respectively. Six patients died 2.0 (0.4-5.7)* years after progression. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 6.7 years [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.3 years-undefined] and 5-year overall survival (OS) was 88.2% (95% CI: 60.6%-96.9%). Of 16 patients with a RET p.Met918Thr mutation, progression-free survival was 6.7 years (95% CI: 3.1-undefined) and 5-year overall survival was 93.8% (95% CI: 63.2%-99.1%). No patients terminated treatment because of toxicity. DNA sequencing of tissue samples (n = 11) identified an increase in copy number alterations across the genome as a potential mechanism of drug resistance [*median (range)].Conclusions: This study demonstrates that vandetanib is safe and results in sustained responses in children and adolescents with hereditary MTC. Our preliminary molecular data suggest that an increase in copy number abnormalities may be associated with tumor progression in hereditary MTC patients treated with vandetanib. Clin Cancer Res; 24(4); 753-65. ©2017 AACR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ira L Kraft
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Srivandana Akshintala
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Yuelin Zhu
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Haiyan Lei
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Claudia Derse-Anthony
- Clinical Research Directorate/Clinical Monitoring Research Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., NCI Campus at Frederick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Eva Dombi
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Seth M Steinberg
- Biostatistics and Data Management Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Maya Lodish
- Developmental Endocrine Oncology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Steven G Waguespack
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Elizabeth Fox
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Frank M Balis
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Maria J Merino
- Translational Surgical Pathology Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Paul S Meltzer
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - John W Glod
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland.
| | - Jack F Shern
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Brigitte C Widemann
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Redaelli S, Plaza-Menacho I, Mologni L. Novel targeted therapeutics for MEN2. Endocr Relat Cancer 2018; 25:T53-T68. [PMID: 29348306 DOI: 10.1530/erc-17-0297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The rearranged during transfection (RET) proto-oncogene was recognized as the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) causing gene in 1993. Since then, much effort has been put into a clear understanding of its oncogenic signaling, its biochemical function and ways to block its aberrant activation in MEN2 and related cancers. Several small molecules have been designed, developed or redirected as RET inhibitors for the treatment of MEN2 and sporadic MTC. However, current drugs are mostly active against several other kinases, as they were not originally developed for RET. This limits efficacy and poses safety issues. Therefore, there is still much to do to improve targeted MEN2 treatments. New, more potent and selective molecules, or combinatorial strategies may lead to more effective therapies in the near future. Here, we review the rationale for RET targeting in MEN2, the use of currently available drugs and novel preclinical and clinical RET inhibitor candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Redaelli
- School of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Luca Mologni
- School of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Hanna GJ, Busaidy NL, Chau NG, Wirth LJ, Barletta JA, Calles A, Haddad RI, Kraft S, Cabanillas ME, Rabinowits G, O'Neill A, Limaye SA, Alexander EK, Moore FD, Misiwkeiwicz K, Thomas T, Nehs M, Marqusee E, Lee SL, Jänne PA, Lorch JH. Genomic Correlates of Response to Everolimus in Aggressive Radioiodine-refractory Thyroid Cancer: A Phase II Study. Clin Cancer Res 2018; 24:1546-1553. [PMID: 29301825 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-17-2297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Targeting mutations leading to PI3K/mTOR/Akt activation are of interest in thyroid cancer. We evaluated the efficacy of everolimus in aggressive, radioactive iodine-refractory (RAIR) thyroid cancer and correlated tumor mutational profiling with response. Exploratory medullary and anaplastic thyroid cancer cohorts were included.Experimental Design: This single-arm, multi-institutional phase II study was conducted from 2009 to 2013 in patients with incurable RAIR thyroid cancer who had radiographic progression six months prior to enrollment. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) with a median follow-up of 31.8 months. The study is closed to enrollment but treatment and follow-up are ongoing. A targeted next-generation sequencing platform was used for mutational analysis.Results: Thirty-three patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), 10 with medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), and 7 with anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) enrolled. For the DTC cohort, median PFS was 12.9 months (95% CI, 7.3-18.5) with a 2-year PFS of 23.6% (95% CI, 10.5-39.5). Median OS was not reached; 2-year OS was 73.5% (95% CI, 53.8-85.8). Among ATC patients, 1 had a partial response and was progression-free until 17.9 months after study entry and one had disease stability for 26 months, respectively. The genomically profiled cohort enriched for PI3K/mTOR/Akt alterations. PI3K/mTOR/Akt-mutated ATC subgroups appeared to benefit from everolimus. Treatment-related adverse events were as anticipated.Conclusions: Everolimus has significant antitumor activity in thyroid cancer. While genomic profiling does not currently guide therapeutic selection in thyroid cancer patients, these data have important implications when considering the use of an mTOR inhibitor in an era of precision medicine. Clin Cancer Res; 24(7); 1546-53. ©2018 AACR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Glenn J Hanna
- Department of Medical Oncology/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Naifa L Busaidy
- Department of Medical Oncology/The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Nicole G Chau
- Department of Medical Oncology/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lori J Wirth
- Department of Medical Oncology/Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Justine A Barletta
- Department of Pathology/Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Antonio Calles
- Departamento de Oncología/Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Maranon, Madrid, Spain
| | - Robert I Haddad
- Department of Medical Oncology/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stefan Kraft
- Department of Medical Oncology/Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Maria E Cabanillas
- Department of Medical Oncology/The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Guilherme Rabinowits
- Department of Medical Oncology/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anne O'Neill
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sewanti A Limaye
- Department of Medical Oncology/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Erik K Alexander
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension/Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Francis D Moore
- Department of Surgery/Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Tom Thomas
- Department of Medical Oncology/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Matthew Nehs
- Department of Surgery/Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Stephanie L Lee
- Center for Hematology and Medical Oncology/Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Pasi A Jänne
- Department of Medical Oncology/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jochen H Lorch
- Department of Medical Oncology/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Targeting RET-driven cancers: lessons from evolving preclinical and clinical landscapes. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2017; 15:151-167. [PMID: 29134959 DOI: 10.1038/nrclinonc.2017.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The gene encoding the receptor-tyrosine kinase RET was first discovered more than three decades ago, and activating RET rearrangements and mutations have since been identified as actionable drivers of oncogenesis. Several multikinase inhibitors with activity against RET have been explored in the clinic, and confirmed responses to targeted therapy with these agents have been observed in patients with RET-rearranged lung cancers or RET-mutant thyroid cancers. Nevertheless, response rates to RET-directed therapy are modest compared with those achieved using targeted therapies matched to other oncogenic drivers of solid tumours, such as sensitizing EGFR or BRAFV600E mutations, or ALK or ROS1 rearrangements. To date, no RET-directed targeted therapeutic has received regulatory approval for the treatment of molecularly defined populations of patients with RET-mutant or RET-rearranged solid tumours. In this Review, we discuss how emerging data have informed the debate over whether the limited success of multikinase inhibitors with activity against RET can be attributed to the tractability of RET as a drug target or to the lack, until 2017, of highly specific inhibitors of this oncoprotein in the clinic. We emphasize that novel approaches to targeting RET-dependent tumours are necessary to improve the clinical efficacy of single-agent multikinase inhibition and, thus, hasten approvals of RET-directed targeted therapies.
Collapse
|
30
|
Levinson S, Cagan RL. Drosophila Cancer Models Identify Functional Differences between Ret Fusions. Cell Rep 2017; 16:3052-3061. [PMID: 27626672 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We generated and compared Drosophila models of RET fusions CCDC6-RET and NCOA4-RET. Both RET fusions directed cells to migrate, delaminate, and undergo EMT, and both resulted in lethality when broadly expressed. In all phenotypes examined, NCOA4-RET was more severe than CCDC6-RET, mirroring their effects on patients. A functional screen against the Drosophila kinome and a library of cancer drugs found that CCDC6-RET and NCOA4-RET acted through different signaling networks and displayed distinct drug sensitivities. Combining data from the kinome and drug screens identified the WEE1 inhibitor AZD1775 plus the multi-kinase inhibitor sorafenib as a synergistic drug combination that is specific for NCOA4-RET. Our work emphasizes the importance of identifying and tailoring a patient's treatment to their specific RET fusion isoform and identifies a multi-targeted therapy that may prove effective against tumors containing the NCOA4-RET fusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Levinson
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Biology and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY 10029-1020, USA
| | - Ross L Cagan
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Biology and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY 10029-1020, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Vitale G, Dicitore A, Pepe D, Gentilini D, Grassi ES, Borghi MO, Gelmini G, Cantone MC, Gaudenzi G, Misso G, Di Blasio AM, Hofland LJ, Caraglia M, Persani L. Synergistic activity of everolimus and 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine in medullary thyroid carcinoma cell lines. Mol Oncol 2017; 11:1007-1022. [PMID: 28453190 PMCID: PMC5537710 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a tumor highly resistant to chemo‐ and radiotherapy. Drug resistance can be induced by epigenetic changes such as aberrant DNA methylation. To overcome drug resistance, we explored a promising approach based on the use of 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine (AZA), a demethylating agent, in combination with the mTOR inhibitor everolimus in MTC cells (MZ‐CRC‐1 and TT). This combined treatment showed a strong synergistic antiproliferative activity through the induction of apoptosis. The effect of everolimus and/or AZA on genome‐wide expression profiling was evaluated by Illumina BeadChip in MZ‐CRC‐1 cells. An innovative bioinformatic pipeline identified four potential molecular pathways implicated in the synergy between AZA and everolimus: PI3K‐Akt signaling, the neurotrophin pathway, ECM/receptor interaction, and focal adhesion. Among these, the neurotrophin signaling pathway was most directly involved in apoptosis, through the overexpression of NGFR and Bax genes. The increased expression of genes involved in the NGFR‐MAPK10‐TP53‐Bax/Bcl2 pathway during incubation with AZA plus everolimus was validated by western blotting in MZ‐CRC‐1 cells. Interestingly, addition of a neutralizing anti‐NGFR antibody inhibited the synergistic cytotoxic activity between AZA and everolimus. These results open a new therapeutic scenario for MTC and potentially other neuroendocrine tumors, where therapy with mTOR inhibitors is currently approved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Vitale
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, Italy.,Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Dicitore
- Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Davide Gentilini
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa S Grassi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, Italy
| | - Maria O Borghi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, Italy.,Experimental Laboratory of Immuno-rheumatologic Researches, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Gelmini
- Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria C Cantone
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, Italy
| | - Germano Gaudenzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Misso
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Italy
| | - Anna M Di Blasio
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Leo J Hofland
- Section Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Persani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, Italy.,Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kheder S, Sisley K, Hadad S, Balasubramanian SP. Effects of prolonged exposure to low dose metformin in thyroid cancer cell lines. J Cancer 2017; 8:1053-1061. [PMID: 28529619 PMCID: PMC5436259 DOI: 10.7150/jca.16584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Thyroid cancer is generally associated with an excellent prognosis, but there is significant long-term morbidity with standard treatment. Some sub-types however have a poor prognosis. Metformin, an oral anti-diabetic drug is shown to have anti-cancer effects in several types of cancer (breast, lung and ovarian cancer). The proposed mechanisms include activation of the Adenosine Mono-phosphate-activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) pathway and inhibition of the mTOR pathway (which promotes growth and proliferation). By inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis and increasing glucose uptake by muscles, metformin decreases blood glucose and circulating Insulin levels. Aims: Explore the effect of metformin on the growth and proliferation of thyroid cancer cell lines. Methods: The effects of metformin on thyroid cancer cell lines (FTC-133, K1E7, RO82-W-1, 8305C and TT) and normal thyroid follicular cells (Nthy-ori 3-1) were investigated using the MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay for cell proliferation; clonogenic assays; FACS analysis for apoptosis and cell cycle, H2A.X phosphorylation (γH2AX) assay for DNA repair and scratch assay for cell migration. Results: Metformin inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation at 0.03 mM and above and inhibited cell migration at 0.3 mM. At concentrations of 0.1 mM and above metformin increased the percentage of apoptotic cells and induced cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase at minimum concentration of 0.3 mM. Unlike previous reports, no effect on DNA repair response was demonstrated. Conclusion: Metformin suppressed growth of all thyroid cancer cell lines, at concentrations considered to be within in the therapeutic range for diabetic patients on metformin (<0.3 mM).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Safar Kheder
- Department of Oncology & Metabolism, University of Sheffield, S10 2RX
| | - Karen Sisley
- Department of Oncology & Metabolism, University of Sheffield, S10 2RX
| | - Sirwan Hadad
- Department of Oncology & Metabolism, University of Sheffield, S10 2RX
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Bagheri-Yarmand R, Williams MD, Grubbs EG, Gagel RF. ATF4 Targets RET for Degradation and Is a Candidate Tumor Suppressor Gene in Medullary Thyroid Cancer. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:933-941. [PMID: 27935748 PMCID: PMC5460684 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-2878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is an aggressive tumor that harbors activating mutations of the RET proto-oncogene. We previously reported that RET inhibits transcriptional activity of ATF4, the master regulator of the stress response pathway, to prevent cell death. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that loss of function of ATF4 plays a role in initiation of MTC. DESIGN Targeted deletion of Atf4 in mice was used to assess ATF4 function in the thyroid gland. ATF4 overexpression was achieved by adenoviral and lentiviral vectors. We used immunohistochemical analysis and western blotting of MTC tumors to determine protein levels of RET and ATF4 and the Kaplan-Meier method to determine their association with clinical outcome. RESULTS Targeted deletion of Atf4 in mice causes C-cell hyperplasia, a precancerous lesion for MTC. Forced ATF4 expression decreased survival of MTC cells and blocked the activation of RET downstream signaling pathways (phosphorylated ERK, phosphorylated AKT, and p70S6K). ATF4 knockdown decreased sensitivity to tyrosine kinase inhibitor-induced apoptosis. Moreover, ATF4 expression decreased RET protein levels by promoting RET ubiquitination. We found decreased or loss of ATF4 in 52% of MTC tumors (n = 39) compared with normal thyroid follicle cells. A negative correlation was observed between RET and ATF4 protein levels in MTC tumors, and low ATF4 expression was associated with poor overall survival in patients with MTC. CONCLUSIONS ATF4 was identified as a negative regulator of RET, a candidate tumor suppressor gene, and may be a molecular marker that distinguishes patients at high risk of MTC from those with a longer survival prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elizabeth G. Grubbs
- Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas, Maryland Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Nozhat Z, Hedayati M, Pourhassan H. Signaling pathways in medullary thyroid carcinoma: therapeutic implications. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENDOCRINE ONCOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.2217/ije-2016-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is the third most frequent thyroid cancer arising from thyroid parafollicular cells. Surgery is the first-line strategy in treatment of MTC but disease relapse and patient's death have been observed in approximately two out of three of MTC cases. Identification of molecular mechanisms and different signaling pathways has offered new insights for disease treatment. The development of tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting these pathways has provided a promising landscape for prevention of progression in patients with advanced metastatic MTC. In this review article different altered molecular pathways implicated in the development of MTC and the therapeutic strategies based on targeting the identified signaling pathways have been summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Nozhat
- Cellular & Molecular Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Biotechnology Department, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Hedayati
- Cellular & Molecular Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hoda Pourhassan
- Clinical Instructor Faculty, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Nozhat Z, Hedayati M. PI3K/AKT Pathway and Its Mediators in Thyroid Carcinomas. Mol Diagn Ther 2016; 20:13-26. [PMID: 26597586 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-015-0175-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid malignancies are the most common endocrine system carcinomas, with four histopathological forms. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase-protein kinase B/AKT (PI3K-PKB/AKT) pathway is one of the most critical molecular signaling pathways implicated in key cellular processes. Its continuous activation by several aberrant receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and genetic mutations in its downstream effectors result in high cell proliferation in a broad number of cancers, including thyroid carcinomas. In this review article, the role of different signaling pathways of PI3K/AKT in thyroid cancers, with the emphasis on the PI3K/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), PI3K/AKT/forkhead box O (FOXO) and PI3K/AKT/phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) pathways, and various therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways have been summarized. In most of the in vitro studies, agents inhibiting mTOR in monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy for thyroid malignancies have been introduced as promising anticancer therapies. FOXOs and PTEN are two outstanding downstream targets of the PI3K/AKT pathway. At the present time, no study has been undertaken to consider thyroid cancer treatment via FOXOs and PTEN targeting. According to the critical role of these proteins in cell cycle arrest, it seems that a treatment strategy based on the combination of FOXOs or PTEN activity induction with PI3K/AKT downstream mediators (e.g., mTOR) inhibition will be beneficial and promising in thyroid cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Nozhat
- Cellular and Molecular Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Biotechnology Department, School of Advanced Technology in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Hedayati
- Cellular and Molecular Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Liu ZG, Tang J, Chen Z, Zhang H, Wang H, Yang J, Zhang H. The novel mTORC1/2 dual inhibitor INK128 enhances radiosensitivity of breast cancer cell line MCF-7. Int J Oncol 2016; 49:1039-45. [DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2016.3604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
|
37
|
Ortolani S, Ciccarese C, Cingarlini S, Tortora G, Massari F. Suppression of mTOR pathway in solid tumors: lessons learned from clinical experience in renal cell carcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors and new perspectives. Future Oncol 2016; 11:1809-28. [PMID: 26075448 DOI: 10.2217/fon.15.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway plays role in the regulation of many cellular processes. Hyperactivation of mTOR signaling has been implicated in human carcinogenesis, representing an attractive target for cancer therapy. Among other cancer subtypes, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and neuroendocrine tumors are relevant settings in which the deregulation of mTOR pathway is of crucial importance. Different mTOR-inhibitory agents have been developed in recent years. Temsirolimus is approved for advanced RCC; everolimus is registered for the treatment of advanced RCC, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and postmenopausal, hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative, advanced breast cancer. This review is focused on the description of the clinical experience with mTOR-inhibitor agents for the treatment of advanced RCC and neuroendocrine tumors, followed by an excursus on the landscape of the ongoing research in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Ortolani
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Piazzale LA Scuro 10, 37124 Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Ciccarese
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Piazzale LA Scuro 10, 37124 Verona, Italy
| | - Sara Cingarlini
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Piazzale LA Scuro 10, 37124 Verona, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Tortora
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Piazzale LA Scuro 10, 37124 Verona, Italy
| | - Francesco Massari
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Piazzale LA Scuro 10, 37124 Verona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Bible KC, Ryder M. Evolving molecularly targeted therapies for advanced-stage thyroid cancers. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2016; 13:403-16. [PMID: 26925962 DOI: 10.1038/nrclinonc.2016.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Increased understanding of disease-specific molecular targets of therapy has led to the regulatory approval of two drugs (vandetanib and cabozantinib) for the treatment of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), and two agents (sorafenib and lenvatinib) for the treatment of radioactive- iodine refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) in both the USA and in the EU. The effects of these and other therapies on overall survival and quality of life among patients with thyroid cancer, however, remain to be more-clearly defined. When applied early in the disease course, intensive multimodality therapy seems to improve the survival outcomes of patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), but salvage therapies for ATC are of uncertain benefit. Additional innovative, rationally designed therapeutic strategies are under active development both for patients with DTC and for patients with ATC, with multiple phase II and phase III randomized clinical trials currently ongoing. Continued effort is being made to identify further signalling pathways with potential therapeutic relevance in thyroid cancers, as well as to elaborate on the complex interactions between signalling pathways, with the intention of translating these discoveries into effective and personalized therapies. Herein, we summarize the progress made in molecular medicine for advanced-stage thyroid cancers of different histotypes, analyse how these developments have altered - and might further refine - patient care, and identify open questions for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keith C Bible
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, and Endocrine Malignancies Disease Oriented Group, Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| | - Mabel Ryder
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, and Endocrine Malignancies Disease Oriented Group, Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.,Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Gild ML, Bullock M, Pon CK, Robinson BG, Clifton-Bligh RJ. Destabilizing RET in targeted treatment of thyroid cancers. Endocr Connect 2016; 5:10-9. [PMID: 26574568 PMCID: PMC4674629 DOI: 10.1530/ec-15-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC) are resistant to traditional chemotherapy. Kinase inhibitors have shown promise in patients with progressive DTC, but dose-limiting toxicity is commonplace. HSP90 regulates protein degradation of several growth-mediating kinases such as RET, and we hypothesized that HSP90 inhibitor (AUY922) could inhibit RET-mediated medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) as well as papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) cell growth and also radioactive iodine uptake by PTC cells. Studies utilized MTC cell lines TT (C634W) and MZ-CRC-1 (M918T) and the PTC cell line TPC-1 (RET/PTC1). Cell viability was assessed with MTS assays and apoptosis by flow cytometry. Signaling target expression was determined by western blot and radioiodine uptake measured with a gamma counter. Prolonged treatment of both MTC cell lines with AUY922 simultaneously inhibited both MAPK and mTOR pathways and significantly induced apoptosis (58.7 and 78.7% reduction in MZ-CRC-1 and TT live cells respectively, following 1 μM AUY922; P<0.02). Similarly in the PTC cell line, growth and signaling targets were inhibited, and also a 2.84-fold increase in radioiodine uptake was observed following AUY922 administration (P=0.015). AUY922 demonstrates in vitro activity against MTC and PTC cell lines. We observed a potent dose-dependent increase in apoptosis in MTC cell lines following drug administration confirming its anti-tumorigenic effects. Western blots confirm inhibition of pro-survival proteins including AKT suggesting this as the mechanism of cell death. In a functional study, we observed an increase in radioiodine uptake in the PTC cell line following AUY922 treatment. We believe HSP90 inhibition could be a viable alternative for treatment of RET-driven chemo-resistant thyroid cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L Gild
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - M Bullock
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - C K Pon
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - B G Robinson
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - R J Clifton-Bligh
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Mohindra NA, Platanias LC. Catalytic mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors as antineoplastic agents. Leuk Lymphoma 2015; 56:2518-23. [DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2015.1026816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
41
|
Links TP, Verbeek HHG, Hofstra RMW, Plukker JTM. Endocrine tumours: progressive metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma: first- and second-line strategies. Eur J Endocrinol 2015; 172:R241-51. [PMID: 25627652 DOI: 10.1530/eje-14-0726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The treatment for metastasised medullary thyroid cancer is still a topic of discussion. One of the main challenges remains to find effective adjuvant and palliative options for patients with metastatic disease. The diagnostic and treatment strategies for this tumour are discussed and possible new developments commented. Approaches that target rearranged during transfection (RET) are preferable to those that target RET downstream proteins as, theoretically, blocking RET downstream targets will block only one of the many pathways activated by RET. Combining several agents would seem to be more promising, in particular agents that target RET with those that independently target RET signalling pathways or the more general mechanism of tumour progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thera P Links
- Department of EndocrinologyUniversity Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The NetherlandsDepartment of GeneticsErasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The NetherlandsDepartment of Surgical OncologyUniversity Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans H G Verbeek
- Department of EndocrinologyUniversity Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The NetherlandsDepartment of GeneticsErasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The NetherlandsDepartment of Surgical OncologyUniversity Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Robert M W Hofstra
- Department of EndocrinologyUniversity Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The NetherlandsDepartment of GeneticsErasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The NetherlandsDepartment of Surgical OncologyUniversity Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - John Th M Plukker
- Department of EndocrinologyUniversity Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The NetherlandsDepartment of GeneticsErasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The NetherlandsDepartment of Surgical OncologyUniversity Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Subbiah V, Berry J, Roxas M, Guha-Thakurta N, Subbiah IM, Ali SM, McMahon C, Miller V, Cascone T, Pai S, Tang Z, Heymach JV. Systemic and CNS activity of the RET inhibitor vandetanib combined with the mTOR inhibitor everolimus in KIF5B-RET re-arranged non-small cell lung cancer with brain metastases. Lung Cancer 2015; 89:76-9. [PMID: 25982012 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2015.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 04/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In-frame fusion KIF5B (the-kinesin-family-5B-gene)-RET transcripts have been characterized in 1-2% of non-small cell lung cancers and are known oncogenic drivers. The RET tyrosine kinase inhibitor, vandetanib, suppresses fusion-induced, anchorage-independent growth activity. In vitro studies have shown that vandetanib is a high-affinity substrate of breast cancer resistance protein (Bcrp1/Abcg2) but is not transported by P-glycoprotein (P-gp), limiting its blood-brain barrier penetration. A co-administration strategy to enhance the brain accumulation of vandetanib by modulating P-gp/Abcb1- and Bcrp1/Abcg2-mediated efflux with mTOR inhibitors, specifically everolimus, was shown to increase the blood-brain barrier penetration. We report the first bench-to-bedside evidence that RET inhibitor combined with an mTOR inhibitor is active against brain-metastatic RET-rearranged lung cancer and the first evidence of blood-brain barrier penetration. A 74-year-old female with progressive adenocarcinoma of the lung (wild-type EGFR and no ALK rearrangement) presented for therapy options. A deletion of 5'RET was revealed by FISH assay, indicating RET-gene rearrangement. Because of progressive disease in the brain, she was enrolled in a clinical trial with vandetanib and everolimus (NCT01582191). Comprehensive genomic profiling revealed fusion of KIF5B (the-kinesin-family-5B-gene) and RET, in addition to AKT2 gene amplification. After two cycles of therapy a repeat MRI brain showed a decrease in the intracranial disease burden and PET/CT showed systemic response as well. Interestingly, AKT2 amplification seen is a critical component of the PI3K/mTOR pathway, alterations of which has been associated with both de novo and acquired resistance to targeted therapy. The addition of everolimus may have both overcome the AKT2 amplification to produce a response in addition to its direct effects on the RET gene. Our case report forms the first evidence of blood-brain barrier penetration by vandetanib in combination with everolimus. Further research is required in this setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Subbiah
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Jenny Berry
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Michael Roxas
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Nandita Guha-Thakurta
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Ishwaria Mohan Subbiah
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Siraj M Ali
- Foundation Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | | | - Tina Cascone
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Shobha Pai
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Zhenya Tang
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - John V Heymach
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Wu TJ, Wang X, Zhang Y, Meng L, Kerrigan JE, Burley SK, Zheng XFS. Identification of a Non-Gatekeeper Hot Spot for Drug-Resistant Mutations in mTOR Kinase. Cell Rep 2015; 11:446-59. [PMID: 25865887 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Revised: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein kinases are therapeutic targets for human cancer. However, "gatekeeper" mutations in tyrosine kinases cause acquired clinical resistance, limiting long-term treatment benefits. mTOR is a key cancer driver and drug target. Numerous small-molecule mTOR kinase inhibitors have been developed, with some already in human clinical trials. Given our clinical experience with targeted therapeutics, acquired drug resistance in mTOR is thought likely, but not yet documented. Herein, we describe identification of a hot spot (L2185) for drug-resistant mutations, which is distinct from the gatekeeper site, and a chemical scaffold refractory to drug-resistant mutations. We also provide new insights into mTOR kinase structure and function. The hot spot mutations are potentially useful as surrogate biomarkers for acquired drug resistance in ongoing clinical trials and future treatments and for the design of the next generation of mTOR-targeted drugs. Our study provides a foundation for further research into mTOR kinase function and targeting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tzung-Ju Wu
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Division of Cancer Pharmacology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA; The Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Xiaowen Wang
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Division of Cancer Pharmacology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA; The Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Yanjie Zhang
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Division of Cancer Pharmacology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA
| | - Linghua Meng
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Division of Cancer Pharmacology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA
| | - John E Kerrigan
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Division of Cancer Pharmacology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA
| | - Stephen K Burley
- Rutgers Center for Integrated Proteomic Research, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - X F Steven Zheng
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Division of Cancer Pharmacology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Manfredi GI, Dicitore A, Gaudenzi G, Caraglia M, Persani L, Vitale G. PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling in medullary thyroid cancer: a promising molecular target for cancer therapy. Endocrine 2015; 48:363-70. [PMID: 25115638 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-014-0380-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is a central hub for the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, metabolism, and angiogenesis. Several studies have recently suggested that the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway is implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of neuroendocrine tumors. Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a neuroendocrine tumor developing from the C cells of the thyroid. Mutations in the RET proto-oncogene are involved in the pathogenesis of several forms of MTC. The deregulation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway seems to contribute to the tumorigenic activity of RET proto-oncogene mutations. Targeting this pathway through specific inhibitors at simple or multiple sites may represent an attractive potential therapeutic approach for patients with advanced MTCs. The aim of this review is to examine the role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in the development and progression of MTC and the new therapeutic options that target this signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Irene Manfredi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
Two independent events--the identification of activating mutations of the RET proto-oncogene, a receptor tyrosine kinase, in medullary thyroid carcinoma, and the recognition that small organic molecules could bind to and inhibit phosphorylation of signaling molecules, thereby inactivating the pathway-led to the recognition that kinase inhibitors could be used to treat medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). The introduction of these compounds into clinical practice has transformed the treatment of metastatic MTC and provided insight into the mechanisms by which RET causes C-cell transformation. This chapter will review the progress in this field over the past 7 years.
Collapse
|
46
|
Netea-Maier RT, Klück V, Plantinga TS, Smit JWA. Autophagy in thyroid cancer: present knowledge and future perspectives. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:22. [PMID: 25741318 PMCID: PMC4332359 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy. Despite having a good prognosis in the majority of cases, when the tumor is dedifferentiated it does no longer respond to conventional treatment with radioactive iodine, the prognosis worsens significantly. Treatment options for advanced, dedifferentiated disease are limited and do not cure the disease. Autophagy, a process of self-digestion in which damaged molecules or organelles are degraded and recycled, has emerged as an important player in the pathogenesis of different diseases, including cancer. The role of autophagy in thyroid cancer pathogenesis is not yet elucidated. However, the available data indicate that autophagy is involved in several steps of thyroid tumor initiation and progression as well as in therapy resistance and therefore could be exploited for therapeutic applications. The present review summarizes the most recent data on the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer and we will provide a perspective on how this process can be targeted for potential therapeutic approaches and could be further explored in the context of multimodality treatment in cancer and personalized medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romana T. Netea-Maier
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Viola Klück
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Theo S. Plantinga
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Johannes W. A. Smit
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Johannes W. A. Smit, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 8, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen 6500 HB, Netherlands e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Malaguarnera R, Chen KY, Kim TY, Dominguez JM, Voza F, Ouyang B, Vundavalli SK, Knauf JA, Fagin JA. Switch in signaling control of mTORC1 activity after oncoprotein expression in thyroid cancer cell lines. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2014; 99:E1976-87. [PMID: 25029414 PMCID: PMC4184069 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2013-3976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Thyroid growth is regulated by TSH and requires mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Thyroid cancers frequently exhibit mutations in MAPK and/or phosphoinositol-3-kinase-related kinase effectors. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to explore the contribution of RET/PTC, RAS, and BRAF to mTOR regulation and response to mTOR inhibitors. METHODS PCCL3 cells conditionally expressing RET/PTC3, HRAS(G12V), or BRAF(V600E) and human thyroid cancer cells harboring mutations of these genes were used to test pathways controlling mTOR and its requirement for growth. RESULTS TSH/cAMP-induced growth of PCCL3 cells requires mTOR, which is stimulated via protein kinase A in a MAPK kinase (MEK)- and AKT-independent manner. Expression of RET/PTC3, HRAS(G12V), or BRAF(V600E) in PCCL3 cells induces mTOR but does not entirely abrogate the cAMP-mediated control of its activity. Acute oncoprotein-induced mTOR activity is regulated by MEK and AKT, albeit to differing degrees. By contrast, mTOR was not activated by TSH/cAMP in human thyroid cancer cells. Tumor genotype did not predict the effects of rapamycin or the mTOR kinase inhibitor AZD8055 on growth, with the exception of a PTEN-null cell line. Selective blockade of MEK did not influence mTOR activity of BRAF or RAS mutant cells. Combined MEK and mTOR kinase inhibition was synergistic on growth of BRAF- and RAS-mutant thyroid cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSION Thyroid cancer cells lose TSH/cAMP dependency of mTOR signaling and cell growth. mTOR activity is not decreased by the MEK or AKT inhibitors in the RAS or BRAF human thyroid cancer cell lines. This may account for the augmented effects of combining the mTOR inhibitors with selective antagonists of these oncogenic drivers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Malaguarnera
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program (R.M., K.-Y.C., T.-Y.K., J.M.D., F.V., S.K.V., J.A.K., J.A.F.) and Department of Medicine (J.A.K., J.A.F.), Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065; and Division of Endocrinology (B.O.), University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Abstract
Since chemotherapy has been shown to be unsuccessful in case of advanced thyroid carcinomas, the research for new therapies is fundamental. Clinical trials of many tyrosine kinase inhibitors as well as anti-angiogenic inhibitors suggest that patients with thyroid cancer could have an advantage with new target therapy. Recently, Food and Drug Administration approved two targeted therapies, vandetanib and cabozantinib for the treatment of metastatic thyroid carcinomas with acceptable outcome. We summarized the results and the toxic effects associated with these treatments reported in clinical trials. Future trials should aim at combinations of targeted agents with or without other treatment modalities to obtain a more effective result in thyroid carcinoma treatment.
Collapse
|
49
|
Wells SA, Santoro M. Update: the status of clinical trials with kinase inhibitors in thyroid cancer. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2014; 99:1543-55. [PMID: 24423326 PMCID: PMC5393476 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2013-2622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Thyroid cancer is usually cured by timely thyroidectomy; however, the treatment of patients with advanced disease is challenging because their tumors are mostly unresponsive to conventional therapies. Recently, the malignancy has attracted much interest for two reasons: the dramatic increase in its incidence over the last three decades, and the discovery of the genetic mutations or chromosomal rearrangements causing most histological types of thyroid cancer. OBJECTIVE This update reviews the molecular genetics of thyroid cancer and the clinical trials evaluating kinase inhibitors (KIs) in patients with locally advanced or metastatic disease. The update also reviews studies in other malignancies, which have identified mechanisms of efficacy, and also resistance, to specific KIs. This information has been critical both to the development of effective second-generation drugs and to the design of combinatorial therapeutic regimens. Finally, the update addresses the major challenges facing clinicians who seek to develop more effective therapy for patients with thyroid cancer. RESULTS PubMed was searched from January 2000 to November 2013 using the following terms: thyroid cancer, treatment of thyroid cancer, clinical trials in thyroid cancer, small molecule therapeutics, kinase inhibitors, and next generation sequencing. CONCLUSIONS A new era in cancer therapy has emerged based on the introduction of KIs for the treatment of patients with liquid and solid organ malignancies. Patients with thyroid cancer have benefited from this advance and will continue to do so with the development of drugs having greater specificity and with the implementation of clinical trials of combined therapeutics to overcome drug resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A Wells
- Cancer Genetics Branch (S.A.W.), National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892; and Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche (M.S.), Universita' di Napoli "Federico II," 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
The RET receptor tyrosine kinase is crucial for normal development but also contributes to pathologies that reflect both the loss and the gain of RET function. Activation of RET occurs via oncogenic mutations in familial and sporadic cancers - most notably, those of the thyroid and the lung. RET has also recently been implicated in the progression of breast and pancreatic tumours, among others, which makes it an attractive target for small-molecule kinase inhibitors as therapeutics. However, the complex roles of RET in homeostasis and survival of neural lineages and in tumour-associated inflammation might also suggest potential long-term pitfalls of broadly targeting RET.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lois M Mulligan
- Division of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Cancer Research Institute and Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario K7L 3N6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|