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Kalita-de Croft P, Joshi V, Saunus JM, Lakhani SR. Emerging Biomarkers for Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment of Brain Metastases-From Biology to Clinical Utility. Diseases 2022; 10:11. [PMID: 35225863 PMCID: PMC8884016 DOI: 10.3390/diseases10010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary malignancies of the lung, skin (melanoma), and breast have higher propensity for metastatic spread to the brain. Advances in molecular tumour profiling have aided the development of targeted therapies, stereotactic radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, which have led to some improvement in patient outcomes; however, the overall prognosis remains poor. Continued research to identify new prognostic and predictive biomarkers is necessary to further impact patient outcomes, as this will enable better risk stratification at the point of primary cancer diagnosis, earlier detection of metastatic deposits (for example, through surveillance), and more effective systemic treatments. Brain metastases exhibit considerable inter- and intratumoural heterogeneity-apart from distinct histology, treatment history and other clinical factors, the metastatic brain tumour microenvironment is incredibly variable both in terms of subclonal diversity and cellular composition. This review discusses emerging biomarkers; specifically, the biological context and potential clinical utility of tumour tissue biomarkers, circulating tumour cells, extracellular vesicles, and circulating tumour DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyakshi Kalita-de Croft
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland Faculty of Medicine, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; (V.J.); (J.M.S.)
| | - Vaibhavi Joshi
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland Faculty of Medicine, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; (V.J.); (J.M.S.)
| | - Jodi M. Saunus
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland Faculty of Medicine, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; (V.J.); (J.M.S.)
| | - Sunil R. Lakhani
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland Faculty of Medicine, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; (V.J.); (J.M.S.)
- Pathology Queensland, The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital Herston, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
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2
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Laprovitera N, Riefolo M, Ambrosini E, Klec C, Pichler M, Ferracin M. Cancer of Unknown Primary: Challenges and Progress in Clinical Management. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030451. [PMID: 33504059 PMCID: PMC7866161 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Patients with cancer of unknown primary site suffer the burden of an uncertain disease, which is characterized by the impossibility to identify the tissue where the tumor has originated. The identification of the primary site of a tumor is of great importance for the patient to have access to site-specific treatments and be enrolled in clinical trials. Therefore, patients with cancer of unknown primary have reduced therapeutic opportunities and poor prognosis. Advancements have been made in the molecular characterization of this tumor, which could be used to infer the tumor site-of-origin and thus broaden the diagnostic outcome. Moreover, we describe here the novel therapeutic opportunities that are based on the genetic and immunophenotypic characterization of the tumor, and thus independent from the tumor type, which could provide most benefit to patients with cancer of unknown primary. Abstract Distant metastases are the main cause of cancer-related deaths in patients with advanced tumors. A standard diagnostic workup usually contains the identification of the tissue-of-origin of metastatic tumors, although under certain circumstances, it remains elusive. This disease setting is defined as cancer of unknown primary (CUP). Accounting for approximately 3–5% of all cancer diagnoses, CUPs are characterized by an aggressive clinical behavior and represent a real therapeutic challenge. The lack of determination of a tissue of origin precludes CUP patients from specific evidence-based therapeutic options or access to clinical trial, which significantly impacts their life expectancy. In the era of precision medicine, it is essential to characterize CUP molecular features, including the expression profile of non-coding RNAs, to improve our understanding of CUP biology and identify novel therapeutic strategies. This review article sheds light on this enigmatic disease by summarizing the current knowledge on CUPs focusing on recent discoveries and emerging diagnostic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Laprovitera
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (N.L.); (M.R.); (E.A.)
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mattia Riefolo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (N.L.); (M.R.); (E.A.)
| | - Elisa Ambrosini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (N.L.); (M.R.); (E.A.)
| | - Christiane Klec
- Division of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (C.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Martin Pichler
- Division of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (C.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (N.L.); (M.R.); (E.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-051-209-4714
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3
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Ravegnini G, Serrano C, Ricci R, Zhang Q, Terrenato I, Graziosi A, Valori G, Landolfi S, Hrelia P, Angelini S. miRNA landscape in primary tumors and matched metastases in gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Epigenomics 2021; 13:369-377. [PMID: 33432846 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2020-0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Gastrointestinal stromal tumor management is extremely challenging, particularly the metastatic disease. The underlying mechanism in metastasis spread remains largely unknown. We aimed to characterize miRNAs involved in the metastatic process in gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Material & methods: Eight primary tumors and 18 synchronous metastases were analyzed through miRNA Taqman arrays or assays. Results: miRNAs profiles revealed similar expression in primary site and metastases. Pair-wise correlation coefficient between primary tumor and metastases was significant for each patient (p < 0.0001 for all profiled patients). Conclusion: Our study, the largest including primary tumors and metastases so far performed, highlighted perpetuation of miRNAs features in metastatic lesions and that the primary origin appears to be the main determinant of the metastases miRNA profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Ravegnini
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Cèsar Serrano
- Sarcoma Translational Research Laboratory, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Riccardo Ricci
- UOC di Anatomia Patologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Qianqian Zhang
- UOC di Anatomia Patologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Terrenato
- Biostatistics-Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Agnese Graziosi
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgia Valori
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Landolfi
- Department of Pathology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patrizia Hrelia
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Sabrina Angelini
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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4
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Abstract
Cancers of unknown primary (CUPs) are histologically confirmed, metastatic malignancies with a primary tumor site that is unidentifiable on the basis of standard evaluation and imaging studies. CUP comprises 2-5% of all diagnosed cancers worldwide and is characterized by early and aggressive metastasis. Current standard evaluation of CUP requires histopathologic evaluation and identification of favorable risk subtypes that can be more definitively treated or have superior outcomes. Current standard treatment of the unfavorable risk subtype requires assessment of prognosis and consideration of empiric chemotherapy. The use of molecular tissue of origin tests to identify the likely primary tumor site has been extensively studied, and here we review the rationale and the evidence for and against the use of such tests in the assessment of CUPs. The expanding use of next generation sequencing in advanced cancers offers the potential to identify a subgroup of patients who have actionable genomic aberrations and may allow for further personalization of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Lee
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hanna K Sanoff
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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5
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Brain Metastasis from Unknown Primary Tumour: Moving from Old Retrospective Studies to Clinical Trials on Targeted Agents. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113350. [PMID: 33198246 PMCID: PMC7697886 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Brain metastases (BMs) are the most common intracranial tumours in adults and occur up to 3–10 times more frequently than primary brain tumours. In up to 15% of patients with BM, the primary tumour cannot be identified. These cases are known as BM of cancer of unknown primary (CUP) (BM-CUP). The understanding of BM-CUP, despite its relative frequency and unfavourable outcome, is still incomplete and clear indications on management are missing. The aim of this review is to summarize current evidence on the diagnosis and treatment of BM-CUP. Abstract Brain metastases (BMs) are the most common intracranial tumours in adults and occur up to 3–10 times more frequently than primary brain tumours. BMs may be the cause of the neurological presenting symptoms in patients with otherwise previously undiagnosed cancer. In up to 15% of patients with BMs, the primary tumour cannot be identified. These cases are known as BM of cancer of unknown primary (CUP) (BM-CUP). CUP has an early and aggressive metastatic spread, poor response to chemotherapy, and poor prognosis. The pathogenesis of CUP seems to be characterized by a specific underlying pro-metastatic signature. The understanding of BM-CUP, despite its relative frequency and unfavourable outcome, is still incomplete and clear indications on management are missing. Advances in diagnostic tools, molecular characterization, and target therapy have shifted the paradigm in the approach to metastasis from CUP: while earlier studies stressed the importance of finding the primary tumour and deciding on treatment based on the primary diagnosis, most recent studies focus on the importance of identifying targetable molecular markers in the metastasis itself. The aim of this review is to summarize current evidence on BM-CUP, from the diagnosis and pathogenesis to the treatment, with a focus on available studies and ongoing clinical trials.
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6
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Liang Y, Wang H, Yang J, Li X, Dai C, Shao P, Tian G, Wang B, Wang Y. A Deep Learning Framework to Predict Tumor Tissue-of-Origin Based on Copy Number Alteration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:701. [PMID: 32850687 PMCID: PMC7419421 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer of unknown primary site (CUPS) is a type of metastatic tumor for which the sites of tumor origin cannot be determined. Precise diagnosis of the tissue origin for metastatic CUPS is crucial for developing treatment schemes to improve patient prognosis. Recently, there have been many studies using various cancer biomarkers to predict the tissue-of-origin (TOO) of CUPS. However, only a very few of them use copy number alteration (CNA) to trance TOO. In this paper, a two-step computational framework called CNA_origin is introduced to predict the tissue-of-origin of a tumor from its gene CNA levels. CNA_origin set up an intellectual deep-learning network mainly composed of an autoencoder and a convolution neural network (CNN). Based on real datasets released from the public database, CNA_origin had an overall accuracy of 83.81% on 10-fold cross-validation and 79% on independent datasets for predicting tumor origin, which improved the accuracy by 7.75 and 9.72% compared with the method published in a previous paper. Our results suggested that the autoencoder model can extract key characteristics of CNA and that the CNN classifier model developed in this study can predict the origin of tumors robustly and effectively. CNA_origin was written in Python and can be downloaded from https://github.com/YingLianghnu/CNA_origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liang
- College of Computer and Information Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Haifeng Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Xiong Li
- School of Software, East China Jiaotong University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chan Dai
- Geneis (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Peng Shao
- College of Computer and Information Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Geng Tian
- Geneis (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Geneis (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Yinglong Wang
- College of Computer and Information Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
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Sato J, Shimomura A, Kawauchi J, Matsuzaki J, Yamamoto Y, Takizawa S, Sakamoto H, Ohno M, Narita Y, Ochiya T, Tamura K. Brain metastasis-related microRNAs in patients with advanced breast cancer. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221538. [PMID: 31603918 PMCID: PMC6788729 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastasis is a major distant metastasis occurring in patients with advanced breast cancer, and is associated with poor prognosis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a strong influence on various oncological functions and have been reported as potential biomarkers for detecting distant metastasis. Specific biomarkers and unique miRNAs for brain metastasis have yet to be reported. The aim of this study was to identify novel miRNAs in serum, to assist in the diagnosis of brain metastasis in patients with advanced breast cancer. We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients with breast cancer and collected clinical data. In addition, we evaluated serum miRNA profiles in patients with breast cancer, with and without brain metastasis, using high-sensitivity microarrays. All patients underwent computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging brain imaging tests. A total of 51 serum samples from patients with breast cancer and brain metastasis, stored in the National Cancer Center Biobank, were used, and 28 serum samples were obtained from controls without brain metastasis. Two miRNAs, miR-4428 and miR-4480, could significantly distinguish patients with brain metastasis, with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of 0.779 and 0.781, respectively, while a combination of miR-4428 and progesterone receptor had an AUC value of 0.884. No significant correlations were identified between the expression levels of these two miRNAs in serum and clinical data. We conclude that serum miR-4428 and miR-4480 may be useful as biomarkers for predicting brain metastasis in patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Sato
- Department of Breast and Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihiko Shimomura
- Department of Breast and Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junpei Kawauchi
- Toray Industries, Inc., Kanagawa, Japan.,Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Juntaro Matsuzaki
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yusuke Yamamoto
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoko Takizawa
- Toray Industries, Inc., Kanagawa, Japan.,Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromi Sakamoto
- Department of Biobank and Tissue Resources, Fundamental Innovative Oncology Core, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Ohno
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Narita
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ochiya
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Tamura
- Department of Breast and Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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8
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Zheng Y, Ding Y, Wang Q, Sun Y, Teng X, Gao Q, Zhong W, Lou X, Xiao C, Chen C, Xu Q, Xu N. 90-gene signature assay for tissue origin diagnosis of brain metastases. J Transl Med 2019; 17:331. [PMID: 31570099 PMCID: PMC6771090 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-2082-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Brain metastases (BM) are the most common intracranial tumors. 2–14% of BM patients present with unknown primary site despite intensive evaluations. This study aims to evaluate the performance of a 90-gene expression signature in determining the primary sites for BM samples. Methods The sequence-based gene expression profiles of 708 primary brain tumors (PBT) collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were analyzed by the 90-gene expression signature, with a similarity score for each of 21 common tumor types. We then used Optimal Binning algorithm to generate a threshold for separating PBT from BM. Eighteen PBT samples were analyzed to substantiate the reliability of the threshold. In addition, the performance of the 90-gene expression signature for molecular classification of metastatic brain tumors was validated in a cohort of 48 BM samples with the known origin. For each BM sample, the tumor type with the highest similarity score was considered tissue of origin. When a sample was diagnosed as PBT, but the similarity score below the threshold, the second prediction was considered as the primary site. Results A threshold of the similarity score, 70, was identified to discriminate PBT from BM (PBT: > 70, BM: ≤ 70) with an accuracy of 99% (703/708, 95% CI 98–100%). The 90-gene expression signature was further validated with 18 PBT and 44 BM samples. The results of 18 PBT samples matched reference diagnosis with a concordance rate of 100%, and all similarity scores were above the threshold. Of 44 BM samples, the 90-gene expression signature accurately predicted primary sites in 89% (39/44, 95% CI 75–96%) of the cases. Conclusions Our findings demonstrated the potential that the 90-gene expression signature could serve as a powerful tool for accurately identifying the primary sites of metastatic brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Zheng
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongfeng Ding
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qifeng Wang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yifeng Sun
- Canhelp Genomics Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaodong Teng
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiqi Gao
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weixiang Zhong
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Lou
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Xiao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chengshu Chen
- Canhelp Genomics Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinghua Xu
- Canhelp Genomics Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Nong Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Matin F, Jeet V, Clements JA, Yousef GM, Batra J. MicroRNA Theranostics in Prostate Cancer Precision Medicine. Clin Chem 2016; 62:1318-33. [DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2015.242800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Prostate cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer in men worldwide. Theranostics, a combination of diagnostics and therapeutics, is an emerging concept in the field of precision medicine, and microRNAs (miRNAs) are predictive pioneers in this area.
CONTENT
miRNAs are small endogenous noncoding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression posttranscriptionally by targeting messenger RNAs. More than 60% of all protein coding genes are controlled by miRNAs, which makes them powerful regulators of the different cellular processes involved in the pathogenesis of various types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Growing evidence indicates the differential expression of miRNAs in tumor tissues. In addition, miRNAs in body fluids, known as circulating miRNAs, are present in remarkably stable forms and their alteration in prostate cancer has been well documented. Circulating miRNAs are known to originate from tumor tissues, thereby enabling intercellular communication via carriers to promote tumorigenesis and malignancy. In addition, fueled by recent advances, the use of miRNA-based anticancer therapies has been proposed with the onset of early phase clinical trials to assess the therapeutic efficacy of miRNAs.
SUMMARY
In this review, we summarize the theranostic utility of miRNAs and outline their diagnostic and prognostic potential in prostate cancer. In addition, we discuss the current detection methodologies and emerging innovative strategies for the detection of miRNAs in body fluids and tumor tissues in the clinical setting. We also provide insight into the current and future therapeutic potential of miRNAs in prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhana Matin
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre-Queensland (APCRC-Q), Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Varinder Jeet
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre-Queensland (APCRC-Q), Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Judith A Clements
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre-Queensland (APCRC-Q), Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - George M Yousef
- Molecular Diagnostics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jyotsna Batra
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre-Queensland (APCRC-Q), Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Abstract
Objective: This overview seeked to bring together the microRNA (miRNA) researches on biogenesis and bio-function in these areas of clinical diagnosis and therapy for malignant glioma. Data Sources: Using the keyword terms “glioma” and “miRNA,” we performed the literature search in PubMed, Ovid, and web.metstr.com databases from their inception to October 2014. Study Selection: In screening out the quality of the articles, factors such as clinical setting of the study, the size of clinical samples were taken into consideration. Animal studied for verification and reviews article were also included in our data collection. Results: Despite many advance in miRNA for malignant glioma, further studies were still required to focus on the following aspects: (i) Improving the understanding about biogenesis of miRNA and up-down regulation; (ii) utilizing high-throughput miRNA expression analysis to screen out the core miRNA for glioma; (iii) Focusing related miRNAs on the signal transduction pathways that regulate the proliferation and growth of glioma. Conclusions: We discussed the most promising miRNA, correlative signaling pathway and their relation with gliomas in the way of prompting miRNA target into being a clinical therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jie Ma
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai 200092, China
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11
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Marzese DM, Witz IP, Kelly DF, Hoon DSB. Epigenomic landscape of melanoma progression to brain metastasis: unexplored therapeutic alternatives. Epigenomics 2015; 7:1303-11. [PMID: 26638944 DOI: 10.2217/epi.15.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma brain metastasis is a complication with rising incidence. Despite the high rate of somatic mutations driving the initial stages of melanocyte transformation, the brain colonization requires a phenotypic reprogramming that is, in part, influenced by epigenomic modifications. This special report summarizes recent findings in the epigenomic landscape of melanoma progression to brain metastasis, with particular emphasis on the clinical utility of DNA methylation, chromatin modifications and ncRNA expression as theragnostic markers, as well as the significance of the metastatic microenvironment on melanoma brain metastasis epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego M Marzese
- Department of Molecular Oncology, John Wayne Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John's Health Center, 2200 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
| | - Isaac P Witz
- Department of Cell Research & Immunology, George S. Wise, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Daniel F Kelly
- Brain Tumor Center, Providence Saint John's Health Center, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
| | - Dave S B Hoon
- Department of Molecular Oncology, John Wayne Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John's Health Center, 2200 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
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12
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Alsidawi S, Malek E, Driscoll JJ. MicroRNAs in brain metastases: potential role as diagnostics and therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:10508-26. [PMID: 24921708 PMCID: PMC4100165 DOI: 10.3390/ijms150610508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases remain a daunting adversary that negatively impact patient survival. Metastatic brain tumors affect up to 45% of all cancer patients with systemic cancer and account for ~20% of all cancer-related deaths. A complex network of non-coding RNA molecules, microRNAs (miRNAs), regulate tumor metastasis. The brain micro-environment modulates metastatic tumor growth; however, defining the precise genetic events that promote metastasis in the brain niche represents an important, unresolved problem. Understanding these events will reveal disease-based targets and offer effective strategies to treat brain metastases. Effective therapeutic strategies based upon the biology of brain metastases represent an urgent, unmet need with immediate potential for clinical impact. Studies have demonstrated the ability of miRNAs to distinguish normal from cancerous cells, primary from secondary brain tumors, and correctly categorize metastatic brain tumor tissue of origin based solely on miRNA profiles. Interestingly, manipulation of miRNAs has proven effective in cancer treatment. With the promise of reduced toxicity, increased efficacy and individually directed personalized anti-cancer therapy, using miRNA in the treatment of metastatic brain tumors may prove very useful and improve patient outcome. In this review, we focus on the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for the treatment of metastatic brain lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Alsidawi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
| | - Ehsan Malek
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
| | - James J Driscoll
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
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13
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Verma M, Rogers S, Divi RL, Schully SD, Nelson S, Su LJ, Ross S, Pilch S, Winn DM, Khoury MJ. Epigenetic research in cancer epidemiology: trends, opportunities, and challenges. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014; 23:223-33. [PMID: 24326628 PMCID: PMC3925982 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-13-0573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is emerging as an important field in cancer epidemiology that promises to provide insights into gene regulation and facilitate cancer control throughout the cancer care continuum. Increasingly, investigators are incorporating epigenetic analysis into the studies of etiology and outcomes. To understand current progress and trends in the inclusion of epigenetics in cancer epidemiology, we evaluated the published literature and the National Cancer Institute (NCI)-supported research grant awards in this field to identify trends in epigenetics research. We present a summary of the epidemiologic studies in NCI's grant portfolio (from January 2005 through December 2012) and in the scientific literature published during the same period, irrespective of support from the NCI. Blood cells and tumor tissue were the most commonly used biospecimens in these studies, although buccal cells, cervical cells, sputum, and stool samples were also used. DNA methylation profiling was the focus of the majority of studies, but several studies also measured microRNA profiles. We illustrate here the current status of epidemiologic studies that are evaluating epigenetic changes in large populations. The incorporation of epigenomic assessments in cancer epidemiology studies has and is likely to continue to provide important insights into the field of cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukesh Verma
- Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
| | - Scott Rogers
- Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
| | - Rao L. Divi
- Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
| | - Sheri D. Schully
- Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
| | - Stefanie Nelson
- Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
| | - L. Joseph Su
- Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
| | - Sharon Ross
- Division of Cancer Prevention, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, MD
| | - Susan Pilch
- Office of the Director, Information Resources and Services Branch, NIH, Bethesda, MD
| | - Deborah M. Winn
- Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
| | - Muin J. Khoury
- Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD
- Office of Public Health Genomics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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14
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Spallone A, Izzo C. Esophageal cancer presenting as a brain metastasis: A case report. Oncol Lett 2013; 6:722-724. [PMID: 24137398 PMCID: PMC3789036 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2013.1436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Carcinoma of unknown primary origin (CUP) is defined as the histological diagnosis of metastasis without the detection of a primary tumor. The incidence of CUP in all patients with a malignant disease has been reported to be between 3 and 15%. Esophageal cancer is the third most common type of cancer of the digestive tract and the seventh most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The overall incidence of the disease is highest in males >50 years old. Brain metastases have been reported in only 1.7–3.6% of all patients with different types of esophageal cancer. Brain metastasis as the presenting form of esophageal carcinoma is highly uncommon. The present study reports the case of a patient with an unknown primary tumor who presented with a cerebral metastasis, without extra-neurological symptoms. The CUP was subsequently diagnosed as an esophageal carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Spallone
- Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurological Centre of Latium (NCL), Rome I-00178, Italy ; Department of Biomedicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome I-00173, Italy
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15
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Huang Q, Ouyang X. Predictive biochemical-markers for the development of brain metastases from lung cancer: clinical evidence and future directions. Cancer Epidemiol 2013; 37:703-7. [PMID: 23816974 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2013.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2013] [Revised: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain metastases are a common complication of patients with lung cancer and lung cancer is one of the most common causes of brain metastases. The occurrence of brain metastases is associated with poor prognosis and high morbidity, even after intensive multimodal therapy. Therefore, identifying lung cancer patients with who are at high risk of developing brain metastases and applying effect intervention is important to reduce or delay the incidence of brain metastases. Biochemical-markers may meet an unmet need for following patients' mechanisms of brain metastases. METHODS Data for this review were identified by searches of Pubmed and Cochrane databases, and references from relevant articles using the search terms "lung cancer" and "brain metastasis". Meeting abstracts, unpublished reports and review articles were not considered. RESULTS Clinical results for pathological and circulating markers including cancer molecular subtypes, miRNA, single nucleotide polymorphisms, and other markers are presented. However, these biochemical-markers are not yet established surrogate assessments for prediction of brain metastases. CONCLUSIONS Biochemical-markers reported allowed physicians to identify which patients with lung cancer are at high risk for brain metastases. Prospective randomized clinical studies are needed to further assess the utility of these biochemical-markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Huang
- Department of Oncology, Fuzhou General Hospital, Fujian, China
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16
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Pentheroudakis G, Pavlidis N, Fountzilas G, Krikelis D, Goussia A, Stoyianni A, Sanden M, St Cyr B, Yerushalmi N, Benjamin H, Meiri E, Chajut A, Rosenwald S, Aharonov R, Spector Y. Novel microRNA-based assay demonstrates 92% agreement with diagnosis based on clinicopathologic and management data in a cohort of patients with carcinoma of unknown primary. Mol Cancer 2013; 12:57. [PMID: 23758919 PMCID: PMC3695805 DOI: 10.1186/1476-4598-12-57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 06/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer of unknown or uncertain primary is a major diagnostic and clinical challenge, since identifying the tissue-of-origin of metastases is crucial for selecting optimal treatment. MicroRNAs are a family of non-coding, regulatory RNA molecules that are tissue-specific, with a great potential to be excellent biomarkers. Methods In this study we tested the performance of a microRNA-based assay in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples from 84 CUP patients. Results The microRNA based assay agreed with the clinical diagnosis at presentation in 70% of patients; it agreed with the clinical diagnosis obtained after patient management, taking into account response and outcome data, in 89% of patients; it agreed with the final clinical diagnosis reached with supplemental immunohistochemical stains in 92% of patients, indicating a 22% improvement in agreement from diagnosis at presentation to the final clinical diagnosis. In 18 patients the assay disagreed with the presentation diagnosis and was in agreement with the final clinical diagnosis, which may have resulted in the administration of more effective chemotherapy. In three out of four discordant cases in which supplemental IHC was performed, the IHC results validated the assay’s molecular diagnosis. Conclusions This novel microRNA-based assay shows high accuracy in identifying the final clinical diagnosis in a real life CUP patient cohort and could be a useful tool to facilitate administration of optimal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Pentheroudakis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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17
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Abstract
MicroRNAs represent a class of small RNAs derived from polymerase II controlled transcriptional regions. The primary transcript forms one or several bulging double stranded hairpins which are processed by Drosha and Dicer into hetero-duplexes. The targeting microRNA strand of the duplex is incorporated into the RNA Induced Silencing Complex from where it silences up to hundreds of mRNA transcript by inducing mRNA degradation or blocking protein translation. Apart from involvement in a variety of biological processes, microRNAs were early recognized for their potential in disease diagnostics and therapeutics. Due to their stability, microRNAs could be used as biomarkers. Currently, there are microRNA panels helping physicians determining the origins of cancer in disseminated tumors. The development of microRNA therapeutics has proved more challenging mainly due to delivery issues. However, one drug is already in clinical trials and several more await entering clinical phases. This review summarizes what has been recognized pre-clinically and clinically on diagnostic microRNAs. In addition, it highlights individual microRNA drugs in running platforms driven by four leading microRNA-therapeutic companies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Hydbring
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02215, USA ; Department of Genetics and Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02115, USA
| | - Gayane Badalian-Very
- Department of Genetics and Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02115, USA ; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02215, USA ; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston MA, 02115, USA
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18
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Abstract
MicroRNAs represent a class of small RNAs derived from polymerase II controlled transcriptional regions. The primary transcript forms one or several bulging double stranded hairpins which are processed by Drosha and Dicer into hetero-duplexes. The targeting microRNA strand of the duplex is incorporated into the RNA Induced Silencing Complex from where it silences up to hundreds of mRNA transcript by inducing mRNA degradation or blocking protein translation. Apart from involvement in a variety of biological processes, microRNAs were early recognized for their potential in disease diagnostics and therapeutics. Due to their stability, microRNAs could be used as biomarkers. Currently, there are microRNA panels helping physicians determining the origins of cancer in disseminated tumors. The development of microRNA therapeutics has proved more challenging mainly due to delivery issues. However, one drug is already in clinical trials and several more await entering clinical phases. This review summarizes what has been recognized pre-clinically and clinically on diagnostic microRNAs. In addition, it highlights individual microRNA drugs in running platforms driven by four leading microRNA-therapeutic companies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Hydbring
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02215, USA ; Department of Genetics and Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02115, USA
| | - Gayane Badalian-Very
- Department of Genetics and Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02115, USA ; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02215, USA ; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston MA, 02115, USA
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19
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Abstract
MicroRNAs represent a class of small RNAs derived from polymerase II controlled transcriptional regions. The primary transcript forms one or several bulging double stranded hairpins which are processed by Drosha and Dicer into hetero-duplexes. The targeting microRNA strand of the duplex is incorporated into the RNA Induced Silencing Complex from where it silences up to hundreds of mRNA transcript by inducing mRNA degradation or blocking protein translation. Apart from involvement in a variety of biological processes, microRNAs were early recognized for their potential in disease diagnostics and therapeutics. Due to their stability, microRNAs could be used as biomarkers. Currently, there are microRNA panels helping physicians determining the origins of cancer in disseminated tumors. The development of microRNA therapeutics has proved more challenging mainly due to delivery issues. However, one drug is already in clinical trials and several more await entering clinical phases. This review summarizes what has been recognized pre-clinically and clinically on diagnostic microRNAs. In addition, it highlights individual microRNA drugs in running platforms driven by four leading microRNA-therapeutic companies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Hydbring
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02215, USA ; Department of Genetics and Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02115, USA
| | - Gayane Badalian-Very
- Department of Genetics and Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02115, USA ; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, 02215, USA ; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston MA, 02115, USA
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20
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Abstract
Diagnosis of brain metastases should aim to identify anatomoclinical entities for which a specific treatment is more accurate. Growing numbers of targeted therapies have shown to be effective against specific cancers. Several studies have reported that targeted therapies are capable of reducing brain metastases in melanoma or non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), sometimes with a high dramatic response. These results have clearly impacted routine neuropathological practice, leading to multidisciplinary strategy management of brain metastases tissues. In accordance with the recommendations of French National Cancer Institute (INCa), the pathologist develops appropriate strategies for molecular and immunohistochemical analysis, in order to provide results as soon as possible.
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21
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McDermott R, Gabikian P, Sarvaiya P, Ulasov I, Lesniak MS. MicroRNAs in brain metastases: big things come in small packages. J Mol Med (Berl) 2012; 91:5-13. [PMID: 23138927 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-012-0971-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2012] [Revised: 10/12/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic brain tumors provide a formidable obstacle in the survival of affected cancer patients, an obstacle that current treatment is essentially ineffective against. Our understanding of the metastatic cascade has demonstrated the role of incorrectly regulated protein expression and proved it to be a crucial component of this process. Recently, molecular studies have emphasized the role of microRNAs, small non-coding RNAs that alter protein expression, in the regulation of both normal and abnormal biological processes, including cancer and its metastasis to the brain. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated the ability to distinguish normal from cancerous cells, primary from secondary brain tumors, and correctly categorize metastatic brain tumor tissue of origin based solely on microRNA profiles. Interestingly, manipulation of microRNAs has proven effective in cancer treatment. With the promise of reduced toxicity, increased efficacy, and individually directed therapy, using microRNA in the treatment of metastatic brain tumors may prove very useful. In this review, we focus on the multiple potential microRNA targets for the treatment of metastatic brain lesions as well as current and future directions for its use in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan McDermott
- The Brain Tumor Center, The University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Ave, M/C 3026, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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22
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Nikaki A, Piperi C, Papavassiliou AG. Role of microRNAs in gliomagenesis: targeting miRNAs in glioblastoma multiforme therapy. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2012; 21:1475-88. [PMID: 22809292 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2012.710199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gliomas consist of a very heterogeneous group of malignant tumors, accounting for 50 - 60% of primary brain tumors. Despite all the efforts of cytoreductive surgery in combination with intense chemoradiotherapy, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM, glioma grade IV) still has a dismal prognosis. Current research is focused on molecular targeting to overcome resistance to conventional therapy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs, represent endogenous agents of RNA interference, dramatically changing expression of target proteins. Their role in brain physiology as well as GBM development has attracted intense research efforts pointing toward therapeutic potential and immediate targeting for sensitization of glioma cells to chemo and/or radiotherapy. AREAS COVERED This review is focused on the variable role of miRNAs in gliomagenesis and their possible clinical relevance in patient's survival and prognosis. It further addresses the potential application of selected miRNAs as therapeutic targets or agents in GMB, including data from clinical studies in other central nervous system tumors. EXPERT OPINION Although miRNA-targeted therapy is still in its initial stage and clinical trials with glioma/brain tumor patients are under recruitment or currently running, several miRNAs have been selected as promising tumor biomarkers, with increased potential to reduce disease progression in combination to conventional first-line therapy for gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Nikaki
- University of Athens, Medical School, Department of Biological Chemistry, Athens, Greece
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23
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Meiri E, Mueller WC, Rosenwald S, Zepeniuk M, Klinke E, Edmonston TB, Werner M, Lass U, Barshack I, Feinmesser M, Huszar M, Fogt F, Ashkenazi K, Sanden M, Goren E, Dromi N, Zion O, Burnstein I, Chajut A, Spector Y, Aharonov R. A second-generation microRNA-based assay for diagnosing tumor tissue origin. Oncologist 2012; 17:801-12. [PMID: 22618571 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2011-0466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancers of unknown primary origin (CUP) constitute 3%-5% (50,000 to 70,000 cases) of all newly diagnosed cancers per year in the United States. Including cancers of uncertain primary origin, the total number increases to 12%-15% (180,000 to 220,000 cases) of all newly diagnosed cancers per year in the United States. Cancers of unknown/uncertain primary origins present major diagnostic and clinical challenges because the tumor tissue of origin is crucial for selecting optimal treatment. MicroRNAs are a family of noncoding, regulatory RNA genes involved in carcinogenesis. MicroRNAs that are highly stable in clinical samples and tissue specific serve as ideal biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. Our first-generation assay identified the tumor of origin based on 48 microRNAs measured on a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction platform and differentiated 25 tumor types. METHODS We present here the development and validation of a second-generation assay that identifies 42 tumor types using a custom microarray. A combination of a binary decision-tree and a k-nearest-neighbor classifier was developed to identify the tumor of origin based on the expression of 64 microRNAs. RESULTS Overall assay sensitivity (positive agreement), measured blindly on a validation set of 509 independent samples, was 85%. The sensitivity reached 90% for cases in which the assay reported a single answer (>80% of cases). A clinical validation study on 52 true CUP patients showed 88% concordance with the clinicopathological evaluation of the patients. CONCLUSION The abilities of the assay to identify 42 tumor types with high accuracy and to maintain the same performance in samples from patients clinically diagnosed with CUP promise improved utility in the diagnosis of cancers of unknown/uncertain primary origins.
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Singh P, Soon PSH, Feige JJ, Chabre O, Zhao JT, Cherradi N, Lalli E, Sidhu SB. Dysregulation of microRNAs in adrenocortical tumors. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 351:118-28. [PMID: 21996374 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.09.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2011] [Revised: 09/22/2011] [Accepted: 09/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that are involved in the epigenetic regulation of cellular processes. Different malignancies are often associated with the deregulation of specific sets of miRNAs. The prognosis of adrenocortical cancers (ACCs) is very poor as compared to adrenocortical adenomas (ACAs), and even within ACCs there are cases with better disease specific survival. An improved understanding of the pathobiology of this disease will therefore be useful in facilitating better management of ACCs as well as distinguishing high risk versus low risk subgroups. One third of coding genes are regulated by miRNAs and therefore changes in miRNA expression may be associated with cancer development and progression. In this review we summarize the current understanding of miRNAs in adrenocortical tumors, and highlight their potential in differentiating between ACCs and ACAs, risk stratification and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puneet Singh
- Cancer Genetics Unit, Hormones & Cancer Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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25
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Gao W, Xu J, Shu YQ. miRNA expression and its clinical implications for the prevention and diagnosis of non-small-cell lung cancer. Expert Rev Respir Med 2012; 5:699-709. [PMID: 21955239 DOI: 10.1586/ers.11.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
miRNAs are a recently discovered category of small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Altered expressions of miRNAs are reported in a variety of human cancers and may associate with cancer pathogenesis, apoptosis and cell growth, thereby functioning as either oncogenes or tumor suppressors. Accumulating evidence indicates that deregulation of miRNA contributes to tumor initiation and progression and hence, has clinical value in several human cancers, including non-small-cell lung cancer. This article discusses the current knowledge of miRNAs in risk assessment, prevention, early diagnosis, prognosis and their possible role as oncogenes or tumor suppressors in the pathogenesis of non-small-cell lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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