1
|
Wang Q, Xin X, Dai Q, Sun M, Chen J, Mostafavi E, Shen Y, Li X. Medulloblastoma targeted therapy: From signaling pathways heterogeneity and current treatment dilemma to the recent advances in development of therapeutic strategies. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108527. [PMID: 37703952 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a major pediatric malignant brain tumor that arises in the cerebellum. MB tumors exhibit highly heterogeneous driven by diverse genetic alterations and could be divided into four major subgroups based on their different biological drivers and molecular features (Wnt, Sonic hedgehog (Shh), group 3, and group 4 MB). Even though the therapeutic strategies for each MB subtype integrate their pathogenesis and were developed to focus on their specific target sites, the unexpected drug non-selective cytotoxicity, low drug accumulation in the brain, and complexed MB tumor microenvironment still be huge obstacles to achieving satisfied MB therapeutic efficiency. This review discussed the current advances in modern MB therapeutic strategy development. Through the recent advances in knowledge of the origin, molecular pathogenesis of MB subtypes and their current therapeutic barriers, we particularly reviewed the current development in advanced MB therapeutic strategy committed to overcome MB treatment obstacles, focusing on novel signaling pathway targeted therapeutic agents and their combination discovery, advanced drug delivery systems design, and MB immunotherapy strategy development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiyue Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Xiaofei Xin
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qihao Dai
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Mengjuan Sun
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jinhua Chen
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Yan Shen
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Xueming Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rechberger JS, Toll SA, Vanbilloen WJF, Daniels DJ, Khatua S. Exploring the Molecular Complexity of Medulloblastoma: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2398. [PMID: 37510143 PMCID: PMC10378552 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13142398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor in children. Over the last few decades, significant progress has been made in revealing the key molecular underpinnings of this disease, leading to the identification of distinct molecular subgroups with different clinical outcomes. In this review, we provide an update on the molecular landscape of medulloblastoma and treatment strategies. We discuss the four main molecular subgroups (WNT-activated, SHH-activated, and non-WNT/non-SHH groups 3 and 4), highlighting the key genetic alterations and signaling pathways associated with each entity. Furthermore, we explore the emerging role of epigenetic regulation in medulloblastoma and the mechanism of resistance to therapy. We also delve into the latest developments in targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Continuing collaborative efforts are needed to further unravel the complex molecular mechanisms and profile optimal treatment for this devastating disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julian S Rechberger
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Stephanie A Toll
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Wouter J F Vanbilloen
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Neurology, Elisabeth-Tweesteden Hospital, 5022 Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - David J Daniels
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Soumen Khatua
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Section of Neuro-Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Knowles T, Huang T, Qi J, An S, Burket N, Cooper S, Nazarian J, Saratsis AM. LIN28B and Let-7 in Diffuse Midline Glioma: A Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3241. [PMID: 37370851 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffuse midline glioma (DMG) is the most lethal of all childhood cancers. DMGs are driven by histone-tail-mutation-mediated epigenetic dysregulation and partner mutations in genes controlling proliferation and migration. One result of this epigenetic and genetic landscape is the overexpression of LIN28B RNA binding protein. In other systems, LIN28B has been shown to prevent let-7 microRNA biogenesis; however, let-7, when available, faithfully suppresses tumorigenic pathways and induces cellular maturation by preventing the translation of numerous oncogenes. Here, we review the current literature on LIN28A/B and the let-7 family and describe their role in gliomagenesis. Future research is then recommended, with a focus on the mechanisms of LIN28B overexpression and localization in DMG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Truman Knowles
- W.M. Keck Science Department, Scripps, Pitzer, and Claremont McKenna Colleges, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
| | - Tina Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jin Qi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Shejuan An
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Noah Burket
- Department of Neurosurgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Scott Cooper
- Department of Neurosurgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Javad Nazarian
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Zurich Children's Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Amanda M Saratsis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lutheran General Hospital, Park Ridge, IL 60068, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhou Z, Zhu B, Meng Q, Zhang T, Wu Y, Yu R, Gao S. Research progress in molecular pathology markers in medulloblastoma. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:139-156. [PMID: 36937322 PMCID: PMC10017192 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the commonest primary malignant brain cancer. The current treatment of MB is usually surgical resection combined with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Although great progress has been made in the clinical management of MB, tumor metastasis and recurrence are still the main cause of death. Therefore, definitive and timely diagnosis is of great importance for improving therapeutic effects on MB. In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) divided MB into four subtypes: wingless-type mouse mammary tumor virus integration site (WNT), sonic hedgehog (SHH), non-WNT/non-SHH group 3, and group 4. Each subtype of MB has a unique profile in copy number variation, DNA alteration, gene transcription, or post-transcriptional/translational modification, all of which are associated with different biological manifestations, clinical features, and prognosis. This article reviewed the research progress of different molecular pathology markers in MB and summarized some targeted drugs against these molecular markers, hoping to stimulate the clinical application of these molecular markers in the classification, diagnosis, and treatment of MB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zixuan Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Nervous System Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bingxin Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuzhou Children’s Hospital, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qingming Meng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Nervous System Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Nervous System Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yihao Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Nervous System Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rutong Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Nervous System Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuzhou Children’s Hospital, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China
- Correspondence: Rutong Yu, Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Nervous System Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Xuzhou Children’s Hospital, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Shangfeng Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Nervous System Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China
- Shangfeng Gao, Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Nervous System Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Westphal MS, Lee E, Schadt EE, Sholler GS, Zhu J. Identification of Let-7 miRNA Activity as a Prognostic Biomarker of SHH Medulloblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010139. [PMID: 35008302 PMCID: PMC8750188 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common pediatric embryonal brain tumor. The current consensus classifies MB into four molecular subgroups: sonic hedgehog-activated (SHH), wingless-activated (WNT), Group 3, and Group 4. MYCN and let-7 play a critical role in MB. Thus, we inferred the activity of miRNAs in MB by using the ActMiR procedure. SHH-MB has higher MYCN expression than the other subgroups. We showed that high MYCN expression with high let-7 activity is significantly associated with worse overall survival, and this association was validated in an independent MB dataset. Altogether, our results suggest that let-7 activity and MYCN can further categorize heterogeneous SHH tumors into more and less-favorable prognostic subtypes, which provide critical information for personalizing treatment options for SHH-MB. Comparing the expression differences between the two SHH-MB prognostic subtypes with compound perturbation profiles, we identified FGFR inhibitors as one potential treatment option for SHH-MB patients with the less-favorable prognostic subtype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Eunjee Lee
- Sema4, 333 Ludlow St., Stamford, CT 06902, USA; (M.S.W.); (E.L.); (E.E.S.)
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Eric E. Schadt
- Sema4, 333 Ludlow St., Stamford, CT 06902, USA; (M.S.W.); (E.L.); (E.E.S.)
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Giselle S. Sholler
- Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA;
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Jun Zhu
- Sema4, 333 Ludlow St., Stamford, CT 06902, USA; (M.S.W.); (E.L.); (E.E.S.)
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Role of MicroRNAs in the Development and Progression of the Four Medulloblastoma Subgroups. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246323. [PMID: 34944941 PMCID: PMC8699467 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most frequent malignant brain tumour in children. Medulloblastoma originate during the embryonic stage. They are located in the cerebellum, which is the area of the central nervous system (CNS) responsible for controlling equilibrium and coordination of movements. In 2012, medulloblastoma were divided into four subgroups based on a genome-wide analysis of RNA expression. These subgroups are named Wingless, Sonic Hedgehog, Group 3 and Group 4. Each subgroup has a different cell of origin, prognosis, and response to therapies. Wingless and Sonic Hedgehog medulloblastoma are so named based on the main mutation originating these tumours. Group 3 and Group 4 have generic names because we do not know the key mutation driving these tumours. Gene expression at the post-transcriptional level is regulated by a group of small single-stranded non-coding RNAs. These microRNA (miRNAs or miRs) play a central role in several cellular functions such as cell differentiation and, therefore, any malfunction in this regulatory system leads to a variety of disorders such as cancer. The role of miRNAs in medulloblastoma is still a topic of intense clinical research; previous studies have mostly concentrated on the clinical entity of the single disease rather than in the four molecular subgroups. In this review, we summarize the latest discoveries on miRNAs in the four medulloblastoma subgroups.
Collapse
|
7
|
Kukreja L, Li CJ, Ezhilan S, Iyer VR, Kuo JS. Emerging Epigenetic Therapies for Brain Tumors. Neuromolecular Med 2021; 24:41-49. [PMID: 34677796 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-021-08691-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Malignant brain tumors are among the most intractable cancers, including malignancies such as glioblastoma, diffuse midline glioma, medulloblastoma, and ependymoma. Unfortunately, treatment options for these brain tumors have been inadequate and complex, leading to poor prognoses and creating a need for new treatment modalities. Aberrant epigenetics define these types of tumors, with underlying changes in DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin structure and noncoding RNAs. Epigenetic-targeted therapies are an alternative that have the potential to reverse the epigenetic deregulation underpinning brain malignancies. Various drugs targeting epigenetic regulators have shown promise in preclinical and clinical testing. In this review, we highlight some of the recent emerging epigenetic targeted therapies for brain tumors being evaluated in the discovery phase and in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lokesh Kukreja
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Catherine J Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Sathyapriya Ezhilan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Vishwanath R Iyer
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes and Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA
| | - John S Kuo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mulva Clinic for the Neurosciences and LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes and Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA. .,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ghosh S, Kumar V, Mukherjee H, Lahiri D, Roy P. Nutraceutical regulation of miRNAs involved in neurodegenerative diseases and brain cancers. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07262. [PMID: 34195404 PMCID: PMC8225984 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human brain is a well-connected, intricate network of neurons and supporting glial cells. Neurodegenerative diseases arise as a consequence of extensive loss of neuronal cells leading to disruption of their natural structure and function. On the contrary, rapid proliferation and growth of glial as well as neuronal cells account for the occurrence of malignancy in brain. In both cases, the molecular microenvironment holds pivotal importance in the progression of the disease. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are one of the major components of the molecular microenvironment. miRNAs are small, noncoding RNAs that control gene expression post-transcriptionally. As compared to other tissues, the brain expresses a substantially high number of miRNAs. In the early stage of neurodegeneration, miRNA expression upregulates, while in oncogenesis, miRNA expression is gradually lost. Neurodegeneration and brain cancer is presumed to be under the influence of identical pathways of cell proliferation, differentiation and cell death which are tightly regulated by miRNAs. It has been confirmed experimentally that miRNA expression can be regulated by nutraceuticals - macronutrients, micronutrients or natural products derived from food; thereby making dietary supplements immensely significant for targeting miRNAs having altered expression patterns during neurodegeneration or oncogenesis. In this review, we will discuss in detail, about the common miRNAs involved in brain cancers and neurodegenerative diseases along with the comprehensive list of miRNAs involved separately in both pathological conditions. We will also discuss the role of nutraceuticals in the regulation of those miRNAs which are involved in both of these pathological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Ghosh
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
- Biomaterials and Multiscale Mechanics Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
- Centre of Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Viney Kumar
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Haimanti Mukherjee
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Debrupa Lahiri
- Biomaterials and Multiscale Mechanics Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
- Centre of Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Partha Roy
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Epigenetic-Based Therapy-A Prospective Chance for Medulloblastoma Patients' Recovery. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094925. [PMID: 34066495 PMCID: PMC8124462 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is one of the most frequent and malignant brain tumors in children. The prognosis depends on the advancement of the disease and the patient's age. Current therapies, which include surgery, chemotherapy, and irradiation, despite being quite effective, cause significant side effects that influence the central nervous system's function and cause neurocognitive deficits. Therefore, they substantially lower the quality of life, which is especially severe in a developing organism. Thus, there is a need for new therapies that are less toxic and even more effective. Recently, knowledge about the epigenetic mechanisms that are responsible for medulloblastoma development has increased. Epigenetics is a phenomenon that influences gene expression but can be easily modified by external factors. The best known epigenetic mechanisms are histone modifications, DNA methylation, or noncoding RNAs actions. Epigenetic mechanisms comprehensively explain the complex phenomena of carcinogenesis. At the same time, they seem to be a potential key to treating medulloblastoma with fewer complications than past therapies. This review presents the currently known epigenetic mechanisms that are involved in medulloblastoma pathogenesis and the potential therapies that use epigenetic traits to cure medulloblastoma while maintaining a good quality of life and ensuring a higher median overall survival rate.
Collapse
|
10
|
Drug Repurposing in Medulloblastoma: Challenges and Recommendations. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2020; 22:6. [PMID: 33245404 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-020-00805-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Medulloblastoma is the most frequently diagnosed primary malignant brain tumor among children. Currently available therapeutic strategies are based on surgical resection, chemotherapy, and/or radiotherapy. However, majority of patients quickly develop therapeutic resistance and are often left with long-term therapy-related side effects and sequelae. Therefore, there remains a dire need to develop more effective therapeutics to overcome the acquired resistance to currently available therapies. Unfortunately, the process of developing novel anti-neoplastic drugs from bench to bedside is highly time-consuming and very expensive. A wide range of drugs that are already in clinical use for treating non-cancerous diseases might commonly target tumor-associated signaling pathways as well and hence be of interest in treating different cancers. This is referred to as drug repurposing or repositioning. In medulloblastoma, drug repurposing has recently gained a remarkable interest as an alternative therapy to overcome therapy resistance, wherein existing non-tumor drugs are being tested for their potential anti-neoplastic effects outside the scope of their original use.
Collapse
|
11
|
Bahmad HF, Elajami MK, El Zarif T, Bou-Gharios J, Abou-Antoun T, Abou-Kheir W. Drug repurposing towards targeting cancer stem cells in pediatric brain tumors. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2020; 39:127-148. [PMID: 31919619 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-019-09840-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In the pediatric population, brain tumors represent the most commonly diagnosed solid neoplasms and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. They include low-grade gliomas (LGGs), medulloblastomas (MBs), and other embryonal, ependymal, and neuroectodermal tumors. The mainstay of treatment for most brain tumors includes surgical intervention, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, resistance to conventional therapy is widespread, which contributes to the high mortality rates reported and lack of improvement in patient survival despite advancement in therapeutic research. This has been attributed to the presence of a subpopulation of cells, known as cancer stem cells (CSCs), which reside within the tumor bulk and maintain self-renewal and recurrence potential of the tumor. An emerging promising approach that enables identifying novel therapeutic strategies to target CSCs and overcome therapy resistance is drug repurposing or repositioning. This is based on using previously approved drugs with known pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics for indications other than their traditional ones, like cancer. In this review, we provide a synopsis of the drug repurposing methodologies that have been used in pediatric brain tumors, and we argue how this selective compilation of approaches, with a focus on CSC targeting, could elevate drug repurposing to the next level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hisham F Bahmad
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad K Elajami
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Talal El Zarif
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jolie Bou-Gharios
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Tamara Abou-Antoun
- School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos Campus, CHSC 6101, Byblos, Lebanon.
| | - Wassim Abou-Kheir
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Suter RK, Rodriguez-Blanco J, Ayad NG. Epigenetic pathways and plasticity in brain tumors. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 145:105060. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.105060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
|
13
|
Pu J, Chen D, Chu S, Chen Z, Fan Y, Zhang Z, Loor JJ, Mao Y, Yang Z. miR-122 regulates the JAK-STAT signalling pathway by down-regulating EPO in the mammary gland during Streptococcus agalactiae-induced mastitis. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2020.1825996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Junhua Pu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Daijie Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Shuangfeng Chu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yongliang Fan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhipeng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Juan J. Loor
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Yongjiang Mao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhangping Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhong L, Jin X, Xu Z, Zeng M, Chen D, He Y, Zhang J, Jiang T, Chen J. Circulating miR-451a levels as a potential biomarker to predict the prognosis of patients with multiple myeloma. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:263. [PMID: 32989397 PMCID: PMC7517596 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.12126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The natural course of multiple myeloma (MM) varies greatly between patients. The Revised MM International Staging System (R-ISS) identifies high-risk patients, but it is unsuitable for assessing minimal residual disease (MRD). Furthermore, the focal location of myeloma cells and clonal evolution often produce false negative results in flow cytometry. Extracellular microRNA (miRNA/miR) expression levels are stable in bodily fluids, and are retrievable and measurable from fresh or archived serum or plasma samples. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the clinical utility of circulating miRNA levels in patients with MM, particularly miR-451a, which is commonly downregulated in MM, and whether it could predict the prognosis and relapse of patients with MM. In total, 66 patients with MM, stratified using the R-ISS criteria, were recruited, while 10 healthy subjects (transplantation donors) were enrolled as controls. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was used to evaluate miR-451a expression in bone marrow (BM) and in the circulation. IL-6 levels were measured using ELISA, while western blotting was conducted to analyze the protein expression levels of the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R). During follow-up, MRD was assessed via multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC). miR-451a was identified to target IL-6R using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Circulating miR-451a levels were low in patients with MM, and was found to be 0.39 times that of the control group (U=4.00; P<0.001). Among the 66 patients with MM, the median level of miR-451a was 0.73 and 0.41 times that of the control group in R-ISS stage I MM (15 patients) and R-ISS stage II stage (17 patients), respectively; patients with R-ISS stage III MM (34 patients) had the lowest level, at 0.24 times the value of the control group. Circulating miR-451a levels had a strong positive correlation with miR-451a levels in BM, but negatively correlated with IL-6 and IL-6R levels. After two courses of consolidation chemotherapy, 19 patients achieved complete remission, 10 of whom presented steady circulating miR-451a levels during follow-up; the other nine patients had an abrupt decrease in circulating miR-451a levels. The turning points in the trend appeared 4–8 weeks before positive results were obtained via MFC, and 4–16 weeks before clinical relapse. Moreover, miR-451a overexpression notably downregulated the expression of the IL-6R mRNA and protein. Collectively, circulating miR-451a levels potentially represent a novel biomarker to monitor MRD and predict relapse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhong
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China.,Department of Natural Products Research Center, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Zhuyu Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Minghui Zeng
- Department of Pharmacy, Qionglai Municipal Medical Center Hospital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, Sichuan 611530, P.R. China
| | - Dongmei Chen
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Southwest Medical University Clinical Medical School, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Yuan He
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Jianbo Zhang
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Hematology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Jiao Chen
- Department of Hematology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kadkhoda S, Darbeheshti F, Tavakkoly-Bazzaz J. Identification of dysregulated miRNAs-genes network in ovarian cancer: An integrative approach to uncover the molecular interactions and oncomechanisms. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2020; 3:e1286. [PMID: 32886452 PMCID: PMC7941472 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian (OV) cancer is considered as one of the most deadly malignancies in women, since it is unfortunately diagnosed in advanced stages. Nowadays, the importance of bioinformatics tools and their frequent usage in tracking dysregulated cancer‐related genes and pathways have been highlighted in researches. Aim The aim of this study is to investigate dysregulated miRNAs‐genes network and its function in OV tumors based on the integration of microarray data through a system biology approach. Methods Two microarray data (GSE119056 and GSE4122) were analyzed to explore the differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRs) and genes among OV tumors and normal tissues. Then, through the help of TargetScan, miRmap, and miRTarBase databases, the dysregulated miRNA‐gene network in OV tumors was constructed by Cytoscape. In the next step, co‐expression and protein‐protein interaction networks were made using GEPIA and STRING databases. Moreover, the functional analysis of the hub genes was done by DAVID, KEGG, and Enrichr databases. Eventually, the regulatory network of TF‐miRNA‐gene was constructed. Results The potential dysregulated miRNAs‐genes network in OV tumors has been constructed, including 109 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 25 DEmiRs, and 213 interactions. Two down‐regulated microRNAs, miR‐660‐3p and hsa‐miR‐4510, have the most interactions with up‐expressed oncogenic DEGs. CDK1, PLK1, CCNB1, CCNA2, and EZH2 are involved in protein module, which show significant overexpression in OV tumors according to The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data. EZH2 shows amplification in OV tumors with remarkable percentage. The transcription factors TFAP2C and GATA4 have the pivotal regulatory functions in oncotranscriptomic profile of OV tumors. Conclusion In current study, we have collected and integrated different data to uncover the complex molecular interactions and oncomechanisms in OV tumors. The DEmiRs‐DEGs and TF‐miRNA‐gene networks reveal the potential interactions that could be a significant piece of the OV onco‐puzzle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Kadkhoda
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Darbeheshti
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Breast Cancer Association (BrCA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Tavakkoly-Bazzaz
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Haltom AR, Toll SA, Cheng D, Maegawa S, Gopalakrishnan V, Khatua S. Medulloblastoma epigenetics and the path to clinical innovation. J Neurooncol 2020; 150:35-46. [PMID: 32816225 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-020-03591-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the last decade, a number of genomic and pharmacological studies have demonstrated the importance of epigenetic dysregulation in medulloblastoma initiation and progression. High throughput approaches including gene expression array, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and methylation profiling have now clearly identified at least four molecular subgroups within medulloblastoma, each with distinct clinical and prognostic characteristics. These studies have clearly shown that despite the overall paucity of mutations, clinically relevant events do occur within the cellular epigenetic machinery. Thus, this review aims to provide an overview of our current understanding of the spectrum of epi-oncogenetic perturbations in medulloblastoma. METHODS Comprehensive review of epigenetic profiles of different subgroups of medulloblastoma in the context of molecular features. Epigenetic regulation is mediated mainly by DNA methylation, histone modifications and microRNAs (miRNA). Importantly, epigenetic mis-events are reversible and have immense therapeutic potential. CONCLUSION The widespread epigenetic alterations present in these tumors has generated intense interest in their use as therapeutic targets. We provide an assessment of the progress that has been made towards the development of molecular subtypes-targeted therapies and the current status of clinical trials that have leveraged these recent advances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda R Haltom
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Cancer Epigenetics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stephanie A Toll
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, USA
| | - Donghang Cheng
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Cancer Epigenetics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shinji Maegawa
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Cancer Epigenetics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vidya Gopalakrishnan
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. .,Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. .,Center for Cancer Epigenetics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. .,Brain Tumor Center, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Soumen Khatua
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. .,Brain Tumor Center, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Alharbi M, Mobark N, Bashawri Y, Abu Safieh L, Alowayn A, Aljelaify R, AlSaeed M, Almutairi A, Alqubaishi F, AlSolme E, Ahmad M, Al-Banyan A, Alotabi FE, Serrano J, Snuderl M, Al-Rashed M, Abedalthagafi M. Methylation Profiling of Medulloblastoma in a Clinical Setting Permits Sub-classification and Reveals New Outcome Predictions. Front Neurol 2020; 11:167. [PMID: 32265819 PMCID: PMC7100767 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common childhood malignant brain tumor and is a leading cause of cancer-related death in children. DNA methylation profiling has rapidly advanced our understanding of MB pathogenesis at the molecular level, but assessments in Saudi Arabian (SA)-MB cases are sparse. MBs can be sub-grouped according to methylation patterns from FPPE samples into Wingless (WNT-MB), Sonic Hedgehog (SHH-MB), Group 3 (G3), and Group 4 (G4) tumors. The WNT-MB and SHH-MB subgroups are characterized by gain-of function mutations that activate oncogenic cell signaling, whilst G3/G4 tumors show recurrent chromosomal alterations. Given that each subgroup has distinct clinical outcomes, the ability to subgroup SA-FPPE samples holds significant prognostic and therapeutic value. Here, we performed the first assessment of MB-DNA methylation patterns in an SA cohort using archival biopsy material (FPPE n = 49). Of the 41 materials available for methylation assessments, 39 could be classified into the major DNA methylation subgroups (SHH, WNT, G3, and G4). Furthermore, methylation analysis was able to reclassify tumors that could not be sub-grouped through next-generation sequencing, highlighting its superior accuracy for MB molecular classifications. Independent assessments demonstrated known clinical relationships of the subgroups, exemplified by the high survival rates observed for WNT tumors. Surprisingly, the G4 subgroup did not conform to previously identified phenotypes, with a high prevalence in females, high metastatic rates, and a large number of tumor-associated deaths. Taking our results together, we demonstrate that DNA methylation profiling enables the robust sub-classification of four disease sub-groups in archival FFPE biopsy material from SA-MB patients. Moreover, we show that the incorporation of DNA methylation biomarkers can significantly improve current disease-risk stratification schemes, particularly concerning the identification of aggressive G4 tumors. These findings have important implications for future clinical disease management in MB cases across the Arab world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Musa Alharbi
- Department of Paediatric Oncology Comprehensive Cancer Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nahla Mobark
- Department of Paediatric Oncology Comprehensive Cancer Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yara Bashawri
- Department of Biostatistics, Research Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Leen Abu Safieh
- Genomics Research Department, Saudi Human Genome Project, King Fahad Medical City and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Albandary Alowayn
- Department of Biostatistics, Research Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rasha Aljelaify
- Department of Biostatistics, Research Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariam AlSaeed
- Department of Biostatistics, Research Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal Almutairi
- Department of Biostatistics, Research Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah Alqubaishi
- Department of Biostatistics, Research Centre, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ebtehal AlSolme
- Genomics Research Department, Saudi Human Genome Project, King Fahad Medical City and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maqsood Ahmad
- Department of Neuroscience, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman Al-Banyan
- Department of Neuroscience, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad E Alotabi
- Department of Neuroscience, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jonathan Serrano
- Department of Pathology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Matija Snuderl
- Department of Pathology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - May Al-Rashed
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Malak Abedalthagafi
- Genomics Research Department, Saudi Human Genome Project, King Fahad Medical City and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|