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Kalfert D, Ludvikova M, Pesta M, Hakala T, Dostalova L, Grundmannova H, Windrichova J, Houfkova K, Knizkova T, Ludvik J, Polivka J, Kholova I. BRAF mutation, selected miRNAs and genes expression in primary papillary thyroid carcinomas and local lymph node metastases. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 258:155319. [PMID: 38696857 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in cancer-related genes are now known to be accompanied by epigenetic events in carcinogenesis by modification of the regulatory pathways and expression of genes involved in the pathobiology. Such cancer-related mutations, miRNAs and gene expression may be promising molecular markers of the most common papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, there are limited data on their relationships. The aim of this study was to analyse the interactions between BRAF mutations, selected microRNAs (miR-21, miR-34a, miR-146b, and miR-9) and the expression of selected genes (LGALS3, NKX2-1, TACSTD2, TPO) involved in the pathogenesis of PTC. The study cohort included 60 primary papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC) that were classified as classical (PTC/C; n=50) and invasive follicular variant (PTC/F; n=10), and 40 paired lymph node metastases (LNM). BRAF mutation status in primary and recurrent/persistent papillary thyroid carcinomas was determined. The mutation results were compared both between primary and metastatic cancer tissue, and between BRAF mutation status and selected genes and miRNA expression in primary PTC. Furthermore, miRNAs and gene expression were compared between primary PTCs and non-neoplastic tissue, and local lymph node metastatic tumor, respectively. All studied markers showed several significant mutual interactions and contexts. In conclusion, to the best our knowledge, this is the first integrated study of BRAF mutational status, the expression levels of mRNAs of selected genes and miRNAs in primary PTC, and paired LNM.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Kalfert
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Motol, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marie Ludvikova
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen 32300, Czech Republic.
| | - Martin Pesta
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen 32300, Czech Republic
| | - Tommi Hakala
- The Wellbeing Services County of Pirkanmaa, Department of Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Lucie Dostalova
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Motol, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Grundmannova
- Laboratory of Immunoanalysis, University Hospital in Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Jindra Windrichova
- Laboratory of Immunoanalysis, University Hospital in Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Houfkova
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen 32300, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Knizkova
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen 32300, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Ludvik
- Department of Imaging Methods, University Hospital Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Polivka
- Department of Histology and Embryology and Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Ivana Kholova
- Pathology, Fimlab Laboratories, Tampere, Finland and Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere, Finland
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2
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Hasan MDN, Rahman MM, Husna AA, Arif M, Jasineviciute I, Kato D, Nakagawa T, Miura N. Upregulation and functional roles of miR-450b in canine oral melanoma. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:376-387. [PMID: 38511062 PMCID: PMC10950611 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Canine oral melanoma (COM) is a common and highly aggressive disease with the potential to model human melanomas. Dysregulated microRNAs represent an interesting line of research for COM because they are implicated in tumor progression. One example is miR-450b, which has been investigated for its molecular mechanisms and biological functions in multiple human cancers, but not human or canine melanoma. Here, we aimed to investigate miR-450b as a potential diagnostic biomarker of COM and its functional roles in metastatic and non-metastatic forms of the disease. We investigated the expression of miR-450b and its target mRNA genes in clinical (tumor tissue and plasma) samples and metastatic and primary-tumor cell lines. Knockdown and overexpression experiments were performed to determine the influence of miR-450b on cell proliferation, migration, colony formation, and apoptosis. miR-450b was significantly upregulated in COM and differentiated between metastatic and non-metastatic tumors, and its potential as a biomarker of metastatic and non-metastatic COM was further confirmed in ROC analysis. miR-450b knockdown promoted cell proliferation, migration, and clonogenicity and inhibited apoptosis, whereas its overexpression yielded the reverse pattern. miR-450b directly binds 3' UTR of PAX9 mRNA and modulates its function leading to BMP4 downregulation and MMP9 upregulation at the transcript level. Furthermore, we surmised that miR-450b activates the Wnt signaling pathway based on gene ontology and enrichment analyses. We concluded that miR-450b has the potential as a diagnostic biomarker and could be a target candidate for COM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- MD Nazmul Hasan
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24, Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24, Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Md. Mahfuzur Rahman
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Al Asmaul Husna
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24, Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Mohammad Arif
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24, Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Indre Jasineviciute
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-47181, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Daiki Kato
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan
| | - Takayuki Nakagawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan
| | - Naoki Miura
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24, Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24, Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
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3
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Kookli K, Soleimani KT, Amr EF, Ehymayed HM, Zabibah RS, Daminova SB, Saadh MJ, Alsaikhan F, Adil M, Ali MS, Mohtashami S, Akhavan-Sigari R. Role of microRNA-146a in cancer development by regulating apoptosis. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 254:155050. [PMID: 38199132 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.155050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Despite great advances in diagnostic and treatment options for cancer, like chemotherapy surgery, and radiation therapy it continues to remain a major global health concern. Further research is necessary to find new biomarkers and possible treatment methods for cancer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), tiny non-coding RNAs found naturally in the body, can influence the activity of several target genes. These genes are often disturbed in diseases like cancer, which perturbs functions like differentiation, cell division, cell cycle, apoptosis and proliferation. MiR-146a is a commonly and widely used miRNA that is often overexpressed in malignant tumors. The expression of miR-146a has been correlated with many pathological and physiological changes in cancer cells, such as the regulation of various cell death paths. It's been established that the control of cell death pathways has a huge influence on cancer progression. To improve our understanding of the interrelationship between miRNAs and cancer cell apoptosis, it's necessary to explore the impact of miRNAs through the alteration in their expression levels. Research has demonstrated that the appearance and spread of cancer can be mitigated by moderating the expression of certain miRNA - a commencement of treatment that presents a hopeful approach in managing cancer. Consequently, it is essential to explore the implications of miR-146a with respect to inducing different forms of tumor cell death, and evaluate its potential to serve as a target for improved chemotherapy outcomes. Through this review, we provide an outline of miR-146a's biogenesis and function, as well as its significant involvement in apoptosis. As well, we investigate the effects of exosomal miR-146a on the promotion of apoptosis in cancer cells and look into how it could possibly help combat chemotherapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keihan Kookli
- International Campus, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Eman Fathy Amr
- College of Nursing, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | | | - Rahman S Zabibah
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Shakhnoza B Daminova
- Department of Prevention of Dental Diseases, Tashkent State Dental Institute, Tashkent, Uzbekistan; Department of Scientific affairs, Tashkent Medical Pediatric Institute, Bogishamol Street 223, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Mohamed J Saadh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman 11831, Jordan
| | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia; School of Pharmacy, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | | | - Saghar Mohtashami
- University of California Los Angeles, School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Reza Akhavan-Sigari
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Tuebingen, Germany; Department of Health Care Management and Clinical Research, Collegium Humanum Warsaw Management University Warsaw, Poland
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4
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Castaldo V, Minopoli M, Di Modugno F, Sacconi A, Liguoro D, Frigerio R, Ortolano A, Di Martile M, Gesualdi L, Madonna G, Capone M, Cirombella R, Catizone A, Del Bufalo D, Vecchione A, Carriero MV, Ascierto PA, Mancini R, Fattore L, Ciliberto G. Upregulated expression of miR-4443 and miR-4488 in drug resistant melanomas promotes migratory and invasive phenotypes through downregulation of intermediate filament nestin. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:317. [PMID: 38008717 PMCID: PMC10680267 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02878-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND BRAF-mutant melanoma patients benefit from the combinatorial treatments with BRAF and MEK inhibitors. However, acquired drug resistance strongly limits the efficacy of these targeted therapies in time. Recently, many findings have underscored the involvement of microRNAs as main drivers of drug resistance. In this context, we previously identified a subset of oncomiRs strongly up-regulated in drug-resistant melanomas. In this work, we shed light on the molecular role of two as yet poorly characterized oncomiRs, miR-4443 and miR-4488. METHODS Invasion and migration have been determined by wound healing, transwell migration/invasion assays and Real Time Cell Analysis (RTCA) technology. miR-4488 and miR-4443 have been measured by qRT-PCR. Nestin levels have been tested by western blot, confocal immunofluorescence, immunohistochemical and flow cytometry analyses. RESULTS We demonstrate that the two oncomiRs are responsible for the enhanced migratory and invasive phenotypes, that are a hallmark of drug resistant melanoma cells. Moreover, miR-4443 and miR-4488 promote an aberrant cytoskeletal reorganization witnessed by the increased number of stress fibers and cellular protrusions-like cancer cell invadopodia. Mechanistically, we identified the intermediate filament nestin as a molecular target of both oncomiRs. Finally, we have shown that nestin levels are able to predict response to treatments in melanoma patients. CONCLUSIONS Altogether these findings have profound translational implications in the attempt i) to develop miRNA-targeting therapies to mitigate the metastatic phenotypes of BRAF-mutant melanomas and ii) to identify novel biomarkers able to guide clinical decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Castaldo
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Minopoli
- Preclinical Models of Tumor Progression Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Modugno
- Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sacconi
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Liguoro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Frigerio
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Ortolano
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Di Martile
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Gesualdi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Madonna
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariaelena Capone
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Cirombella
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Angiolina Catizone
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Del Bufalo
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Vecchione
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vincenza Carriero
- Preclinical Models of Tumor Progression Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Antonio Ascierto
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Fattore
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Directorate, IRCSS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
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5
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Oncosuppressive miRNAs loaded in lipid nanoparticles potentiate targeted therapies in BRAF-mutant melanoma by inhibiting core escape pathways of resistance. Oncogene 2023; 42:293-307. [PMID: 36418472 PMCID: PMC9684877 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02547-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BRAF-mutated melanoma relapsing after targeted therapies is an aggressive disease with unmet clinical need. Hence the need to identify novel combination therapies able to overcome drug resistance. miRNAs have emerged as orchestrators of non-genetic mechanisms adopted by melanoma cells to challenge therapies. In this context we previously identified a subset of oncosuppressor miRNAs downregulated in drug-resistant melanomas. Here we demonstrate that lipid nanoparticles co-encapsulating two of them, miR-199-5p and miR-204-5p, inhibit tumor growth both in vitro and in vivo in combination with target therapy and block the development of drug resistance. Mechanistically they act by directly reducing melanoma cell growth and also indirectly by hampering the recruitment and reprogramming of pro-tumoral macrophages. Molecularly, we demonstrate that the effects on macrophages are mediated by the dysregulation of a newly identified miR-204-5p-miR-199b-5p/CCL5 axis. Finally, we unveiled that M2 macrophages programs are molecular signatures of resistance and predict response to therapy in patients. Overall, these findings have strong translational implications to propose new combination therapies making use of RNA therapeutics for metastatic melanoma patients.
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6
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Anestopoulos I, Kyriakou S, Tragkola V, Paraskevaidis I, Tzika E, Mitsiogianni M, Deligiorgi MV, Petrakis G, Trafalis DT, Botaitis S, Giatromanolaki A, Koukourakis MI, Franco R, Pappa A, Panayiotidis MI. Targeting the epigenome in malignant melanoma: Facts, challenges and therapeutic promises. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 240:108301. [PMID: 36283453 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is the most lethal type of skin cancer with high rates of mortality. Although current treatment options provide a short-clinical benefit, acquired-drug resistance highlights the low 5-year survival rate among patients with advanced stage of the disease. In parallel, the involvement of an aberrant epigenetic landscape, (e.g., alterations in DNA methylation patterns, histone modifications marks and expression of non-coding RNAs), in addition to the genetic background, has been also associated with the onset and progression of melanoma. In this review article, we report on current therapeutic options in melanoma treatment with a focus on distinct epigenetic alterations and how their reversal, by specific drug compounds, can restore a normal phenotype. In particular, we concentrate on how single and/or combinatorial therapeutic approaches have utilized epigenetic drug compounds in being effective against malignant melanoma. Finally, the role of deregulated epigenetic mechanisms in promoting drug resistance to targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors is presented leading to the development of newly synthesized and/or improved drug compounds capable of targeting the epigenome of malignant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Anestopoulos
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - S Kyriakou
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - V Tragkola
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - I Paraskevaidis
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - E Tzika
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | - M V Deligiorgi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - G Petrakis
- Saint George Hospital, Chania, Crete, Greece
| | - D T Trafalis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - S Botaitis
- Department of Surgery, Alexandroupolis University Hospital, Democritus University of Thrace School of Medicine, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - A Giatromanolaki
- Department of Pathology, Democritus University of Thrace, University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - M I Koukourakis
- Radiotherapy / Oncology, Radiobiology & Radiopathology Unit, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - R Franco
- Redox Biology Centre, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA; School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - A Pappa
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - M I Panayiotidis
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus.
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7
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Vera J, Lai X, Baur A, Erdmann M, Gupta S, Guttà C, Heinzerling L, Heppt MV, Kazmierczak PM, Kunz M, Lischer C, Pützer BM, Rehm M, Ostalecki C, Retzlaff J, Witt S, Wolkenhauer O, Berking C. Melanoma 2.0. Skin cancer as a paradigm for emerging diagnostic technologies, computational modelling and artificial intelligence. Brief Bioinform 2022; 23:6761961. [PMID: 36252807 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbac433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We live in an unprecedented time in oncology. We have accumulated samples and cases in cohorts larger and more complex than ever before. New technologies are available for quantifying solid or liquid samples at the molecular level. At the same time, we are now equipped with the computational power necessary to handle this enormous amount of quantitative data. Computational models are widely used helping us to substantiate and interpret data. Under the label of systems and precision medicine, we are putting all these developments together to improve and personalize the therapy of cancer. In this review, we use melanoma as a paradigm to present the successful application of these technologies but also to discuss possible future developments in patient care linked to them. Melanoma is a paradigmatic case for disruptive improvements in therapies, with a considerable number of metastatic melanoma patients benefiting from novel therapies. Nevertheless, a large proportion of patients does not respond to therapy or suffers from adverse events. Melanoma is an ideal case study to deploy advanced technologies not only due to the medical need but also to some intrinsic features of melanoma as a disease and the skin as an organ. From the perspective of data acquisition, the skin is the ideal organ due to its accessibility and suitability for many kinds of advanced imaging techniques. We put special emphasis on the necessity of computational strategies to integrate multiple sources of quantitative data describing the tumour at different scales and levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Vera
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Xin Lai
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Baur
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Erdmann
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Shailendra Gupta
- Department of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Institute of Computer Science, University of Rostock, Rostock 18051, Germany
| | - Cristiano Guttà
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of Stuttgart, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Lucie Heinzerling
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus V Heppt
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Manfred Kunz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christopher Lischer
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Brigitte M Pützer
- Institute of Experimental Gene Therapy and Cancer Research, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Markus Rehm
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of Stuttgart, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.,Stuttgart Research Center Systems Biology, University of Stuttgart, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Christian Ostalecki
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jimmy Retzlaff
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Olaf Wolkenhauer
- Department of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Institute of Computer Science, University of Rostock, Rostock 18051, Germany
| | - Carola Berking
- Department of Dermatology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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8
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Levati L, Bassi C, Mastroeni S, Lupini L, Antonini Cappellini GC, Bonmassar L, Alvino E, Caporali S, Lacal PM, Narducci MG, Molineris I, De Galitiis F, Negrini M, Russo G, D’Atri S. Circulating miR-1246 and miR-485-3p as Promising Biomarkers of Clinical Response and Outcome in Melanoma Patients Treated with Targeted Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153706. [PMID: 35954369 PMCID: PMC9367338 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the significant improvements in advanced melanoma therapy, there is still a pressing need for biomarkers that can predict patient response and prognosis, and therefore support rational treatment decisions. Here, we investigated whether circulating miRNAs could be biomarkers of clinical outcomes in patients treated with targeted therapy. Using next-generation sequencing, we profiled plasma miRNAs at baseline and at progression in patients treated with BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) or BRAFi + MEKi. Selected miRNAs associated with response to therapy were subjected to validation by real-time quantitative RT-PCR . Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC), Kaplan–Meier and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed on the validated miR-1246 and miR-485-3p baseline levels. The median baseline levels of miR-1246 and miR-485-3p were significantly higher and lower, respectively, in the group of patients not responding to therapy (NRs) as compared with the group of responding patients (Rs). In Rs, a trend toward an increase in miR-1246 and a decrease in miR-485-3p was observed at progression. Baseline miR-1246 level and the miR-1246/miR-485-3p ratio showed a good ability to discriminate between Rs and NRs. Poorer PFS and OS were observed in patients with unfavorable levels of at least one miRNA. In multivariate analysis, a low level of miR-485-3p and a high miR-1246/miR-485-3p ratio remained independent negative prognostic factors for PFS, while a high miR-1246/miR-485-3p ratio was associated with an increased risk of mortality, although statistical significance was not reached. Evaluation of miR-1246 and miR-485-3p baseline plasma levels might help clinicians to identify melanoma patients most likely to be unresponsive to targeted therapy or at higher risk for short-term PFS and mortality, thus improving their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauretta Levati
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Cristian Bassi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.B.); (L.L.); (M.N.)
- LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Simona Mastroeni
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy;
| | - Laura Lupini
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.B.); (L.L.); (M.N.)
| | - Gian Carlo Antonini Cappellini
- Department of Oncology and Dermatological Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (G.C.A.C.); (F.D.G.)
| | - Laura Bonmassar
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Ester Alvino
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Council of Research, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Simona Caporali
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Pedro Miguel Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Maria Grazia Narducci
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Ivan Molineris
- Department of Life Science and System Biology, University of Turin, Via Accademia Albertina 13, 10123 Turin, Italy;
| | - Federica De Galitiis
- Department of Oncology and Dermatological Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (G.C.A.C.); (F.D.G.)
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.B.); (L.L.); (M.N.)
- LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giandomenico Russo
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Stefania D’Atri
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
- Correspondence:
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9
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Understanding Molecular Mechanisms of Phenotype Switching and Crosstalk with TME to Reveal New Vulnerabilities of Melanoma. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071157. [PMID: 35406721 PMCID: PMC8997563 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma cells are notorious for their high plasticity and ability to switch back and forth between various melanoma cell states, enabling the adaptation to sub-optimal conditions and therapeutics. This phenotypic plasticity, which has gained more attention in cancer research, is proposed as a new paradigm for melanoma progression. In this review, we provide a detailed and deep comprehensive recapitulation of the complex spectrum of phenotype switching in melanoma, the key regulator factors, the various and new melanoma states, and corresponding signatures. We also present an extensive description of the role of epigenetic modifications (chromatin remodeling, methylation, and activities of long non-coding RNAs/miRNAs) and metabolic rewiring in the dynamic switch. Furthermore, we elucidate the main role of the crosstalk between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and oxidative stress in the regulation of the phenotype switching. Finally, we discuss in detail several rational therapeutic approaches, such as exploiting phenotype-specific and metabolic vulnerabilities and targeting components and signals of the TME, to improve the response of melanoma patients to treatments.
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10
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NRF3 Decreases during Melanoma Carcinogenesis and Is an Independent Prognostic Marker in Melanoma. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:2240223. [PMID: 35378827 PMCID: PMC8976671 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2240223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The prognostic significance of the major redox regulator, nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2), is recognized in many cancers, but the role of NRF3 is not studied. Analysis from the Gene Expression Omnibus datasets showed that NRF3 mRNA levels increased from benign to dysplastic naevi (p = 0.04). We characterized the immunohistochemical expression of NRF3 in 81 naevi, 67 primary skin melanomas, and 51 lymph node metastases. The immunohistochemical expression of cytoplasmic NRF3 decreased from benign to dysplastic naevi (p < 0.001) and further to primary melanomas (p < 0.001). High cytoplasmic NRF3 protein expression in pigment cells of the primary melanomas associated with worse melanoma-specific survival in multivariate analysis, specifically in the subgroup of patients with the lymph node metastases at the time of diagnosis (hazard ratio 3.179; 95% confidence interval 1.065-9.493; p = 0.038). Intriguingly, we did not observe associations between NRF3 and the traditional prognostic factors such as Breslow thickness, ulceration, or stage. Together, this data represents the primary description about the role of NRF3 in pigment tumours that is worthy of further explorations.
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11
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Zhang M, Xiong F, Zhang S, Guo W, He Y. Crucial Roles of miR-625 in Human Cancer. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:845094. [PMID: 35308517 PMCID: PMC8931282 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.845094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic and epigenetic characteristics are core factors of cancer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs which regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level via binding to corresponding mRNAs. Recently, increasing evidence has proven that miRNAs regulate the occurrence and development of human cancer. Here, we mainly review the abnormal expression of miR-625 in a variety of cancers. In summarizing the role and potential molecular mechanisms of miR-625 in various tumors in detail, we reveal that miR-625 is involved in a variety of biological processes, such as cell proliferation, invasion, migration, apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, and drug resistance. In addition, we discuss the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks and briefly explain the specific mechanisms of competing endogenous RNAs. In conclusion, we reveal the potential value of miR-625 in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis and hope to provide new ideas for the clinical application of miR-625.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menggang Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fei Xiong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuijun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenzhi Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Wenzhi Guo
| | - Yuting He
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
- Yuting He
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12
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Montico B, Giurato G, Pecoraro G, Salvati A, Covre A, Colizzi F, Steffan A, Weisz A, Maio M, Sigalotti L, Fratta E. The pleiotropic roles of circular and long noncoding RNAs in cutaneous melanoma. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:565-593. [PMID: 34080276 PMCID: PMC8807361 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is a very aggressive disease, often characterized by unresponsiveness to conventional therapies and high mortality rates worldwide. The identification of the activating BRAFV600 mutations in approximately 50% of CM patients has recently fueled the development of novel small-molecule inhibitors that specifically target BRAFV600 -mutant CM. In addition, a major progress in CM treatment has been made by monoclonal antibodies that regulate the immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, although target-based therapies and immunotherapeutic strategies have yielded promising results, CM treatment remains a major challenge. In the last decade, accumulating evidence points to the aberrant expression of different types of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in CM. While studies on microRNAs have grown exponentially leading to significant insights on CM biology, the role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in this tumor is less understood, and much remains to be discovered. Here, we summarize and critically review the available evidence on the molecular functions of circRNAs and lncRNAs in BRAFV600 -mutant CM and CM immunogenicity, providing recent updates on their functional role in targeted therapy and immunotherapy resistance. In addition, we also include an evaluation of several algorithms and databases for prediction and validation of circRNA and lncRNA functional interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Montico
- Immunopathology and Cancer BiomarkersCentro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO)IRCCSAvianoItaly
| | - Giorgio Giurato
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and GenomicsDepartment of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana'University of SalernoBaronissiItaly
- Genome Research Center for Health – CRGSUniversity of Salerno Campus of MedicineBaronissiItaly
| | - Giovanni Pecoraro
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and GenomicsDepartment of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana'University of SalernoBaronissiItaly
- Genome Research Center for Health – CRGSUniversity of Salerno Campus of MedicineBaronissiItaly
| | - Annamaria Salvati
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and GenomicsDepartment of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana'University of SalernoBaronissiItaly
| | - Alessia Covre
- Center for Immuno‐OncologyUniversity Hospital of SienaItaly
- University of SienaItaly
| | - Francesca Colizzi
- Immunopathology and Cancer BiomarkersCentro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO)IRCCSAvianoItaly
| | - Agostino Steffan
- Immunopathology and Cancer BiomarkersCentro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO)IRCCSAvianoItaly
| | - Alessandro Weisz
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and GenomicsDepartment of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana'University of SalernoBaronissiItaly
- Genome Research Center for Health – CRGSUniversity of Salerno Campus of MedicineBaronissiItaly
| | - Michele Maio
- Center for Immuno‐OncologyUniversity Hospital of SienaItaly
- University of SienaItaly
- NIBIT Foundation OnlusSienaItaly
| | - Luca Sigalotti
- Oncogenetics and Functional Oncogenomics UnitCentro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO)IRCCSAvianoItaly
| | - Elisabetta Fratta
- Immunopathology and Cancer BiomarkersCentro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO)IRCCSAvianoItaly
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13
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Korfiati A, Grafanaki K, Kyriakopoulos GC, Skeparnias I, Georgiou S, Sakellaropoulos G, Stathopoulos C. Revisiting miRNA Association with Melanoma Recurrence and Metastasis from a Machine Learning Point of View. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:1299. [PMID: 35163222 PMCID: PMC8836065 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnostic and prognostic value of miRNAs in cutaneous melanoma (CM) has been broadly studied and supported by advanced bioinformatics tools. From early studies using miRNA arrays with several limitations, to the recent NGS-derived miRNA expression profiles, an accurate diagnostic panel of a comprehensive pre-specified set of miRNAs that could aid timely identification of specific cancer stages is still elusive, mainly because of the heterogeneity of the approaches and the samples. Herein, we summarize the existing studies that report several miRNAs as important diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in CM. Using publicly available NGS data, we analyzed the correlation of specific miRNA expression profiles with the expression signatures of known gene targets. Combining network analytics with machine learning, we developed specific non-linear classification models that could successfully predict CM recurrence and metastasis, based on two newly identified miRNA signatures. Subsequent unbiased analyses and independent test sets (i.e., a dataset not used for training, as a validation cohort) using our prediction models resulted in 73.85% and 82.09% accuracy in predicting CM recurrence and metastasis, respectively. Overall, our approach combines detailed analysis of miRNA profiles with heuristic optimization and machine learning, which facilitates dimensionality reduction and optimization of the prediction models. Our approach provides an improved prediction strategy that could serve as an auxiliary tool towards precision treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aigli Korfiati
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece; (A.K.); (G.S.)
| | - Katerina Grafanaki
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | | | - Ilias Skeparnias
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Sophia Georgiou
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | - George Sakellaropoulos
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece; (A.K.); (G.S.)
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14
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Cherepakhin OS, Argenyi ZB, Moshiri AS. Genomic and Transcriptomic Underpinnings of Melanoma Genesis, Progression, and Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:123. [PMID: 35008286 PMCID: PMC8750021 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a deadly skin cancer with rapidly increasing incidence worldwide. The discovery of the genetic drivers of melanomagenesis in the last decade has led the World Health Organization to reclassify melanoma subtypes by their molecular pathways rather than traditional clinical and histopathologic features. Despite this significant advance, the genomic and transcriptomic drivers of metastatic progression are less well characterized. This review describes the known molecular pathways of cutaneous and uveal melanoma progression, highlights recently identified pathways and mediators of metastasis, and touches on the influence of the tumor microenvironment on metastatic progression and treatment resistance. While targeted therapies and immune checkpoint blockade have significantly aided in the treatment of advanced disease, acquired drug resistance remains an unfortunately common problem, and there is still a great need to identify potential prognostic markers and novel therapeutic targets to aid in such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zsolt B. Argenyi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA;
| | - Ata S. Moshiri
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA;
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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15
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Oxidative Stress-Related Mechanisms in Melanoma and in the Acquired Resistance to Targeted Therapies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10121942. [PMID: 34943045 PMCID: PMC8750393 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10121942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a highly aggressive cancer with the poorest prognosis, representing the deadliest form of skin cancer. Activating mutations in BRAF are the most frequent genetic alterations, present in approximately 50% of all melanoma cases. The use of specific inhibitors towards mutant BRAF variants and MEK, a downstream signaling target of BRAF in the MAPK pathway, has significantly improved progression-free and overall survival in advanced melanoma patients carrying BRAF mutations. Nevertheless, despite these improvements, resistance still develops within the first year of therapy in around 50% of patients, which is a significant problem in managing BRAF-mutated advanced melanoma. Understanding these mechanisms is one of the mainstreams of the research on BRAFi/MEKi acquired resistance. Both genetic and epigenetic mechanisms have been described. Moreover, in recent years, oxidative stress has emerged as another major force involved in all the phases of melanoma development, from initiation to progression until the onsets of the metastatic phenotype and chemoresistance, and has thus become a target for therapy. In the present review, we discuss the current knowledge on oxidative stress and its signaling in melanoma, as well as the oxidative stress-related mechanisms in the acquired resistance to targeted therapies.
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16
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He W, Yang G, Liu S, Maghsoudloo M, Shasaltaneh MD, Kaboli PJ, Zhang C, Zhang J, Entezari M, Imani S, Wen Q. Comparative mRNA/micro-RNA co-expression network drives melanomagenesis by promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition and vasculogenic mimicry signaling. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:101237. [PMID: 34626953 PMCID: PMC8512639 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101237] [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: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify a novel disease-associated differentially co-expressed mRNA-microRNA (miRNA) that is associated with vasculogenic mimicry (VM) and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) network at different stages of melanoma. By applying weighted gene co-expression network analysis, we constructed a VM+EMT biological network with the available microarray dataset downloaded from a public database. Quantitative real-time PCR, immunohistochemical staining, and CD31-periodic acid solution dual staining were performed to confirm the expression of genes associated with EMT and VM formation in subjects with malignant melanoma (n = 18) and primary melanoma (n = 13) and in healthy subjects (n = 10). Our findings suggested that phosphatidylserine-specific phospholipase A1-alpha (PLA1A) and dermokine (DMKN) genes function as oncogenes that trigger VM and EMT processes during melanomagenesis on interaction with miR-370, miR-563, and miR-770-5p. PLA1A and DMKN genes can be considered potential VM+EMT network-based diagnostic biomarkers for distinguishing between melanoma patients. We postulate that a network with altered PLA1A/miR-563 and DMNK/miR-770-5p/miR-370 may contribute to melanomagenesis by triggering the EMT signaling pathway and VM formation. This study provides a potentially valuable approach for the early diagnosis and prognosis of melanoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- WenFeng He
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Gang Yang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China; Department of Oncology, Anyue Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Second Ziyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ziyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuya Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China; Department of Oncology, Chengdu Jinniu District People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mazaher Maghsoudloo
- Laboratory of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Parham Jabbarzadeh Kaboli
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Research Center for Cancer Biology, and Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Cuiwei Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - JingHeng Zhang
- Oncology Department, Luzhou People's Hospital, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Maliheh Entezari
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saber Imani
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
| | - QingLian Wen
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
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17
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Cooperative miRNA-dependent PTEN regulation drives resistance to BTK inhibition in B-cell lymphoid malignancies. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:1061. [PMID: 34750354 PMCID: PMC8575967 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04353-9] [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: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant microRNA (miR) expression plays an important role in pathogenesis of different types of cancers, including B-cell lymphoid malignancies and in the development of chemo-sensitivity or -resistance in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) as well as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Ibrutinib is a first-in class, oral, covalent Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor (BTKi) that has shown impressive clinical activity, yet many ibrutinib-treated patients relapse or develop resistance over time. We have reported that acquired resistance to ibrutinib is associated with downregulation of tumor suppressor protein PTEN and activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. Yet how PTEN mediates chemoresistance in B-cell malignancies is not clear. We now show that the BTKi ibrutinib and a second-generation compound, acalabrutinib downregulate miRNAs located in the 14q32 miRNA cluster region, including miR-494, miR-495, and miR-543. BTKi-resistant CLL and DLBCL cells had striking overexpression of miR-494, miR-495, miR-543, and reduced PTEN expression, indicating further regulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in acquired BTKi resistance. Additionally, unlike ibrutinib-sensitive CLL patient samples, those with resistance to ibrutinib treatment, demonstrated upregulation of 14q32 cluster miRNAs, including miR-494, miR-495, and miR-543 and decreased pten mRNA expression. Luciferase reporter gene assay showed that miR-494 directly targeted and suppressed PTEN expression by recognizing two conserved binding sites in the PTEN 3'-UTR, and subsequently activated AKTSer473. Importantly, overexpression of a miR-494 mimic abrogated both PTEN mRNA and protein levels, further indicating regulation of apoptosis by PTEN/AKT/mTOR. Conversely, overexpression of a miR-494 inhibitor in BTKi-resistant cells restored PTEN mRNA and protein levels, thereby sensitizing cells to BTKi-induced apoptosis. Inhibition of miR-494 and miR-495 sensitized cells by cooperative targeting of pten, with additional miRNAs in the 14q32 cluster that target pten able to contribute to its regulation. Therefore, targeting 14q32 cluster miRNAs may have therapeutic value in acquired BTK-resistant patients via regulation of the PTEN/AKT/mTOR signaling axis.
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Revythis A, Shah S, Kutka M, Moschetta M, Ozturk MA, Pappas-Gogos G, Ioannidou E, Sheriff M, Rassy E, Boussios S. Unraveling the Wide Spectrum of Melanoma Biomarkers. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11081341. [PMID: 34441278 PMCID: PMC8391989 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11081341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of biomarkers in medicine has become essential in clinical practice in order to help with diagnosis, prognostication and prediction of treatment response. Since Alexander Breslow’s original report on “melanoma and prognostic values of thickness”, providing the first biomarker for melanoma, many promising new biomarkers have followed. These include serum markers, such as lactate dehydrogenase and S100 calcium-binding protein B. However, as our understanding of the DNA mutational profile progresses, new gene targets and proteins have been identified. These include point mutations, such as mutations of the BRAF gene and tumour suppressor gene tP53. At present, only a small number of the available biomarkers are being utilised, but this may soon change as more studies are published. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of melanoma biomarkers and their utility for current and, potentially, future clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonios Revythis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK; (A.R.); (S.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Sidrah Shah
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK; (A.R.); (S.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Mikolaj Kutka
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK; (A.R.); (S.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Michele Moschetta
- CHUV, Lausanne University Hospital, Rue du Bugnon, 21 CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Mehmet Akif Ozturk
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Bahcesehir University, Istanbul 34353, Turkey;
| | - George Pappas-Gogos
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45111 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Evangelia Ioannidou
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, West Suffolk Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Hardwick Lane, Bury St Edmunds IP33 2QZ, UK;
| | - Matin Sheriff
- Department of Urology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK;
| | - Elie Rassy
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Gustave Roussy Institut, 94805 Villejuif, France;
| | - Stergios Boussios
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK; (A.R.); (S.S.); (M.K.)
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
- AELIA Organization, 9th Km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence: or or
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Alkafaji HA, Raji A, Rahman HS, Zekiy AO, Adili A, Jalili M, Hojjatipour T, Cid‐Arregui A, Shomali N, Tarzi S, Tamjidifar R, Heshmati R, Marofi F, Akbari M, Hasanzadeh A, Deljavanghodrati M, Jarahian M, Sandoghchian Shotorbani S. Up-regulation of KISS1 as a novel target of Let-7i in melanoma serves as a potential suppressor of migration and proliferation in vitro. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:6864-6873. [PMID: 34096173 PMCID: PMC8278109 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a kind of skin cancer that is begun by the alteration of melanocytes. miRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate a variety of biological processes. KISS1, the metastasis-suppressor gene, encodes kisspeptins which inhibits migration and proliferation of cancers. This study was aimed to determine the role of Let-7i and KISS1 in melanoma cell migration and proliferation. At first, the expression of Let-7i and KISS1 was determined in patients with melanoma. In the in vitro part of the study, Let-7i mimics were transfected and the impact of its restoration on target gene expression, proliferation, migration and apoptosis of SK-MEL-3 melanoma cell line was assessed by real-time PCR and Western blotting, MTT assay, wound-healing assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Besides, KISS1 inhibitor siRNA alone and along with Let-7i was transfected to determine their probable correlation. The results revealed that either Let-7i or KISS1 were down-regulated in patients with melanoma. The results obtained from the in vitro part of the study revealed that restoration of Let-7i reduced the expression of metastasis- and proliferation-related target genes. Moreover, it was revealed that up-regulation of Let-7i attenuated migration and proliferation capability of SK-MEL-3 cells. Besides, it was demonstrated that Let-7i restoration induced apoptosis in melanoma cells. More importantly, the KISS1 inhibitor caused a prominent cell migration and proliferation, attenuated by Let-7i re-expression. To sum up, the present study revealed the impressive role of Let-7i restoration along with its correlation with KISS1 on melanoma carcinogenicity which may be applicable in future in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmed Raji
- College of medicineUniversity of BabylonBabylonIraq
| | - Heshu S. Rahman
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of MedicineUniversity of SuleimanyahSuleimanyahIraq
| | - Angelina O. Zekiy
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical UniversityMoscowRussian Federation
| | - Ali Adili
- Department of OncologyTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | | | - Tahereh Hojjatipour
- Department of Hematology and Blood TransfusionStudents Research CentreSchool of Allied MedicineTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Angel Cid‐Arregui
- Targeted Tumor Vaccines UnitGerman Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)HeidelbergGermany
| | - Navid Shomali
- Immunology Research CenterTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
- Department of ImmunologyTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Saeed Tarzi
- Immunology Research CenterTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Rozita Tamjidifar
- Immunology Research CenterTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Ramin Heshmati
- Immunology Research CenterTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Faroogh Marofi
- Department of ImmunologyTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Morteza Akbari
- Immunology Research CenterTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Ali Hasanzadeh
- Department of ImmunologyTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | | | - Mostafa Jarahian
- Toxicology and Chemotherapy Unit (G401)German Cancer Research CenterHeidelbergGermany
| | - Siamak Sandoghchian Shotorbani
- Immunology Research CenterTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
- Department of ImmunologyTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
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20
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Scatena C, Murtas D, Tomei S. Cutaneous Melanoma Classification: The Importance of High-Throughput Genomic Technologies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:635488. [PMID: 34123788 PMCID: PMC8193952 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.635488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is an aggressive tumor responsible for 90% of mortality related to skin cancer. In the recent years, the discovery of driving mutations in melanoma has led to better treatment approaches. The last decade has seen a genomic revolution in the field of cancer. Such genomic revolution has led to the production of an unprecedented mole of data. High-throughput genomic technologies have facilitated the genomic, transcriptomic and epigenomic profiling of several cancers, including melanoma. Nevertheless, there are a number of newer genomic technologies that have not yet been employed in large studies. In this article we describe the current classification of cutaneous melanoma, we review the current knowledge of the main genetic alterations of cutaneous melanoma and their related impact on targeted therapies, and we describe the most recent high-throughput genomic technologies, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. We hope that the current review will also help scientists to identify the most suitable technology to address melanoma-related relevant questions. The translation of this knowledge and all actual advancements into the clinical practice will be helpful in better defining the different molecular subsets of melanoma patients and provide new tools to address relevant questions on disease management. Genomic technologies might indeed allow to better predict the biological - and, subsequently, clinical - behavior for each subset of melanoma patients as well as to even identify all molecular changes in tumor cell populations during disease evolution toward a real achievement of a personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Scatena
- Division of Pathology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Daniela Murtas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Cytomorphology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sara Tomei
- Omics Core, Integrated Genomics Services, Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
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21
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Tudor DV, Bâldea I, Olteanu DE, Fischer-Fodor E, Piroska V, Lupu M, Călinici T, Decea RM, Filip GA. Celecoxib as a Valuable Adjuvant in Cutaneous Melanoma Treated with Trametinib. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4387. [PMID: 33922284 PMCID: PMC8122835 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma patients stop responding to targeted therapies mainly due to mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway re-activation, phosphoinositide 3 kinase/the mechanistic target of rapamycin (PI3K/mTOR) pathway activation or stromal cell influence. The future of melanoma treatment lies in combinational approaches. To address this, our in vitro study evaluated if lower concentrations of Celecoxib (IC50 in nM range) could still preserve the chemopreventive effect on melanoma cells treated with trametinib. MATERIALS AND METHODS All experiments were conducted on SK-MEL-28 human melanoma cells and BJ human fibroblasts, used as co-culture. Co-culture cells were subjected to a celecoxib and trametinib drug combination for 72 h. We focused on the evaluation of cell death mechanisms, melanogenesis, angiogenesis, inflammation and resistance pathways. RESULTS Low-dose celecoxib significantly enhanced the melanoma response to trametinib. The therapeutic combination reduced nuclear transcription factor (NF)-kB (p < 0.0001) and caspase-8/caspase-3 activation (p < 0.0001), inhibited microphthalmia transcription factor (MITF) and tyrosinase (p < 0.05) expression and strongly down-regulated the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway more significantly than the control or trametinib group (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Low concentrations of celecoxib (IC50 in nM range) sufficed to exert antineoplastic capabilities and enhanced the therapeutic response of metastatic melanoma treated with trametinib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Valentina Tudor
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (D.V.T.); (I.B.); (M.L.); (R.M.D.); (G.A.F.)
| | - Ioana Bâldea
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (D.V.T.); (I.B.); (M.L.); (R.M.D.); (G.A.F.)
| | - Diana Elena Olteanu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (D.V.T.); (I.B.); (M.L.); (R.M.D.); (G.A.F.)
| | - Eva Fischer-Fodor
- “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță” Oncology Institute, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.F.-F.); (V.P.)
| | - Virag Piroska
- “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță” Oncology Institute, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.F.-F.); (V.P.)
| | - Mihai Lupu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (D.V.T.); (I.B.); (M.L.); (R.M.D.); (G.A.F.)
| | - Tudor Călinici
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Roxana Maria Decea
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (D.V.T.); (I.B.); (M.L.); (R.M.D.); (G.A.F.)
| | - Gabriela Adriana Filip
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (D.V.T.); (I.B.); (M.L.); (R.M.D.); (G.A.F.)
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22
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Fattore L, Ruggiero CF, Liguoro D, Castaldo V, Catizone A, Ciliberto G, Mancini R. The Promise of Liquid Biopsy to Predict Response to Immunotherapy in Metastatic Melanoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:645069. [PMID: 33816298 PMCID: PMC8013996 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.645069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer whose incidence has been rising dramatically over the last few decades. Nowadays, the most successful approach in treating advanced melanoma is immunotherapy which encompasses the use of immune checkpoint blockers able to unleash the immune system's activity against tumor cells. Immunotherapy has dramatically changed clinical practice by contributing to increasing long term overall survival. Despite these striking therapeutic effects, the clinical benefits are strongly mitigated by innate or acquired resistance. In this context, it is of utmost importance to develop methods capable of predicting patient response to immunotherapy. To this purpose, one major step forward may be provided by measuring non-invasive biomarkers in human fluids, namely Liquid Biopsies (LBs). Several LB approaches have been developed over the last few years thanks to technological breakthroughs that have allowed to evaluate circulating components also when they are present in low abundance. The elements of this so-called "circulome" mostly encompass: tumor DNA, tumor and immune cells, soluble factors and non-coding RNAs. Here, we review the current knowledge of these molecules as predictors of response to immunotherapy in metastatic melanoma and predict that LB will soon enter into routine practice in order to guide clinical decisions for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Fattore
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Ciro Francesco Ruggiero
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Domenico Liguoro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Castaldo
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angiolina Catizone
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Directorate, IRCSS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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23
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Relevance of 2'-O-Methylation and Pseudouridylation for the Malignant Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051167. [PMID: 33803145 PMCID: PMC7963185 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This study investigates the expression, the histological localization, and the influence of the factors involved in 2′-O-methylation and pseudouridylation on prognostic relevant markers, proliferation markers, overall survival, molecular immune surveillance and evasion mechanisms within the malignant melanoma. Statistically significant positive correlations to the expression of markers involved in cell proliferation were observed. The upregulation of the RNA modifying factors was of prognostic relevance in this tumor disease with a negative impact on the overall survival of melanoma patients. Furthermore, the factors involved in 2′-O-methylation and pseudouridylation were statistically significant negative correlated to the expression of human leukocyte antigen class I genes as well as of components of the antigen processing machinery. Abstract The two RNA modifications 2′-O-methylation and pseudouridylation occur on several RNA species including ribosomal RNAs leading to an increased translation as well as cell proliferation associated with distinct functions. Using malignant melanoma (MM) as a model system the proteins mediating these RNA modifications were for the first time analyzed by different bioinformatics tools and public available databases regarding their expression and histological localization. Next to this, the impact of these RNA-modifying factors on prognostic relevant processes and marker genes of malignant melanoma was investigated and correlated to immune surveillance and evasion strategies. The RNA modifying factors exerted statistically significant positive correlations to the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation and were statistically significant negative correlated to the expression of human leukocyte antigen class I genes as well as of components of the antigen processing machinery in malignant melanoma. Upregulation of the RNA modifying proteins was of prognostic relevance in this tumor disease with a negative impact on the overall survival of melanoma patients. Furthermore, the expression of known oncogenic miRs, which are induced in malignant melanoma, directly correlated to the expression of factors involved in these two RNA modifications.
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24
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Kozar I, Philippidou D, Margue C, Gay LA, Renne R, Kreis S. Cross-Linking Ligation and Sequencing of Hybrids (qCLASH) Reveals an Unpredicted miRNA Targetome in Melanoma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051096. [PMID: 33806450 PMCID: PMC7961530 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are key post-transcriptional gene regulators often displaying aberrant expression patterns in cancer. As microRNAs are promising disease-associated biomarkers and modulators of responsiveness to anti-cancer therapies, a solid understanding of their targetome is crucial. Despite enormous research efforts, the success rates of available tools to reliably predict microRNAs (miRNA)-target interactions remains limited. To investigate the disease-associated miRNA targetome, we have applied modified cross-linking ligation and sequencing of hybrids (qCLASH) to BRAF-mutant melanoma cells. The resulting RNA-RNA hybrid molecules provide a comprehensive and unbiased snapshot of direct miRNA-target interactions. The regulatory effects on selected miRNA target genes in predicted vs. non-predicted binding regions was validated by miRNA mimic experiments. Most miRNA-target interactions deviate from the central dogma of miRNA targeting up to 60% interactions occur via non-canonical seed pairing with a strong contribution of the 3' miRNA sequence, and over 50% display a clear bias towards the coding sequence of mRNAs. miRNAs targeting the coding sequence can directly reduce gene expression (miR-34a/CD68), while the majority of non-canonical miRNA interactions appear to have roles beyond target gene suppression (miR-100/AXL). Additionally, non-mRNA targets of miRNAs (lncRNAs) whose interactions mainly occur via non-canonical binding were identified in melanoma. This first application of CLASH sequencing to cancer cells identified over 8 K distinct miRNA-target interactions in melanoma cells. Our data highlight the importance non-canonical interactions, revealing further layers of complexity of post-transcriptional gene regulation in melanoma, thus expanding the pool of miRNA-target interactions, which have so far been omitted in the cancer field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Kozar
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367 Belvaux, Luxembourg; (I.K.); (D.P.); (C.M.)
| | - Demetra Philippidou
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367 Belvaux, Luxembourg; (I.K.); (D.P.); (C.M.)
| | - Christiane Margue
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367 Belvaux, Luxembourg; (I.K.); (D.P.); (C.M.)
| | - Lauren A. Gay
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida, 1200 Newell Drive, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.A.G.); (R.R.)
| | - Rolf Renne
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida, 1200 Newell Drive, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.A.G.); (R.R.)
| | - Stephanie Kreis
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367 Belvaux, Luxembourg; (I.K.); (D.P.); (C.M.)
- Correspondence:
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Integrated Genomics Identifies miR-181/TFAM Pathway as a Critical Driver of Drug Resistance in Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041801. [PMID: 33670365 PMCID: PMC7918089 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are attractive therapeutic targets and promising candidates as molecular biomarkers for various therapy-resistant tumors. However, the association between miRNAs and drug resistance in melanoma remains to be elucidated. We used an integrative genomic analysis to comprehensively study the miRNA expression profiles of drug-resistant melanoma patients and cell lines. MicroRNA-181a and -181b (miR181a/b) were identified as the most significantly down-regulated miRNAs in resistant melanoma patients and cell lines. Re-establishment of miR-181a/b expression reverses the resistance of melanoma cells to the BRAF inhibitor dabrafenib. Introduction of miR-181 mimics markedly decreases the expression of TFAM in A375 melanoma cells resistant to BRAF inhibitors. Furthermore, melanoma growth was inhibited in A375 and M14 resistant melanoma cells transfected with miR-181a/b mimics, while miR-181a/b depletion enhanced resistance in sensitive cell lines. Collectively, our study demonstrated that miR-181a/b could reverse the resistance to BRAF inhibitors in dabrafenib resistant melanoma cell lines. In addition, miR-181a and -181b are strongly down-regulated in tumor samples from patients before and after the development of resistance to targeted therapies. Finally, melanoma tissues with high miR-181a and -181b expression presented favorable outcomes in terms of Progression Free Survival, suggesting that miR-181 is a clinically relevant candidate for therapeutic development or biomarker-based therapy selection.
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26
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Fattore L, Mancini R, Ciliberto G. Cancer Stem Cells and the Slow Cycling Phenotype: How to Cut the Gordian Knot Driving Resistance to Therapy in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113368. [PMID: 33202944 PMCID: PMC7696527 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer stem cells play a central role in the development of cancer and are poorly sensitive to standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Furthermore, they are also responsible for the onset of drug resistance. This also occurs in malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Hence, cancer stem cells eradication is one of the main challenges for medical oncology. Here, we conducted a bioinformatics approach aimed to identify the main circuits and proteins underpinning cancer stem cell fitness in melanoma. Several lessons emerged from our work and may help to conceptualize future therapeutic approaches to prolong the efficacy of current therapies. Abstract Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have historically been defined as slow cycling elements that are able to differentiate into mature cells but without dedifferentiation in the opposite direction. Thanks to advances in genomic and non-genomic technologies, the CSC theory has more recently been reconsidered in a dynamic manner according to a “phenotype switching” plastic model. Transcriptional reprogramming rewires this plasticity and enables heterogeneous tumors to influence cancer progression and to adapt themselves to drug exposure by selecting a subpopulation of slow cycling cells, similar in nature to the originally defined CSCs. This model has been conceptualized for malignant melanoma tailored to explain resistance to target therapies. Here, we conducted a bioinformatics analysis of available data directed to the identification of the molecular pathways sustaining slow cycling melanoma stem cells. Using this approach, we identified a signature of 25 genes that were assigned to four major clusters, namely (1) kinases and metabolic changes, (2) melanoma-associated proteins, (3) Hippo pathway and (4) slow cycling/CSCs factors. Furthermore, we show how a protein−protein interaction network may be the main driver of these melanoma cell subpopulations. Finally, mining The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data we evaluated the expression levels of this signature in the four melanoma mutational subtypes. The concomitant alteration of these genes correlates with the worst overall survival (OS) for melanoma patients harboring BRAF-mutations. All together these results underscore the potentiality to target this signature to selectively kill CSCs and to achieve disease control in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Fattore
- Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, SAFU Laboratory, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS, “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant’ Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Directorate, IRCSS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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27
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Vergani E, Dugo M, Cossa M, Frigerio S, Di Guardo L, Gallino G, Mattavelli I, Vergani B, Lalli L, Tamborini E, Valeri B, Gargiuli C, Shahaj E, Ferrarini M, Ferrero E, Gomez Lira M, Huber V, Vecchio MD, Sensi M, Leone BE, Santinami M, Rivoltini L, Rodolfo M, Vallacchi V. miR-146a-5p impairs melanoma resistance to kinase inhibitors by targeting COX2 and regulating NFkB-mediated inflammatory mediators. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:156. [PMID: 32967672 PMCID: PMC7510138 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00601-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Targeted therapy with BRAF and MEK inhibitors has improved the survival of patients with BRAF-mutated metastatic melanoma, but most patients relapse upon the onset of drug resistance induced by mechanisms including genetic and epigenetic events. Among the epigenetic alterations, microRNA perturbation is associated with the development of kinase inhibitor resistance. Here, we identified and studied the role of miR-146a-5p dysregulation in melanoma drug resistance. Methods The miR-146a-5p-regulated NFkB signaling network was identified in drug-resistant cell lines and melanoma tumor samples by expression profiling and knock-in and knock-out studies. A bioinformatic data analysis identified COX2 as a central gene regulated by miR-146a-5p and NFkB. The effects of miR-146a-5p/COX2 manipulation were studied in vitro in cell lines and with 3D cultures of treatment-resistant tumor explants from patients progressing during therapy. Results miR-146a-5p expression was inversely correlated with drug sensitivity and COX2 expression and was reduced in BRAF and MEK inhibitor-resistant melanoma cells and tissues. Forced miR-146a-5p expression reduced COX2 activity and significantly increased drug sensitivity by hampering prosurvival NFkB signaling, leading to reduced proliferation and enhanced apoptosis. Similar effects were obtained by inhibiting COX2 by celecoxib, a clinically approved COX2 inhibitor. Conclusions Deregulation of the miR-146a-5p/COX2 axis occurs in the development of melanoma resistance to targeted drugs in melanoma patients. This finding reveals novel targets for more effective combination treatment. Video Abstract
Graphical Abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Vergani
- Unit of Immunotherapy of Human Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Dugo
- Platform of Integrated Biology, Department of Applied Research and Technological Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori AmadeoLab, Milan, Italy
| | - Mara Cossa
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Frigerio
- Unit of Immunotherapy of Human Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenza Di Guardo
- Unit of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianfrancesco Gallino
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Mattavelli
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Vergani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Luca Lalli
- Unit of Immunotherapy of Human Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Tamborini
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Valeri
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Gargiuli
- Platform of Integrated Biology, Department of Applied Research and Technological Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori AmadeoLab, Milan, Italy
| | - Eriomina Shahaj
- Unit of Immunotherapy of Human Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Ferrarini
- Experimental Oncology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Macarena Gomez Lira
- Biology and Genetics, Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Veronica Huber
- Unit of Immunotherapy of Human Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Del Vecchio
- Unit of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Marialuisa Sensi
- Platform of Integrated Biology, Department of Applied Research and Technological Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori AmadeoLab, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Mario Santinami
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Licia Rivoltini
- Unit of Immunotherapy of Human Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Rodolfo
- Unit of Immunotherapy of Human Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Viviana Vallacchi
- Unit of Immunotherapy of Human Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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Mechanisms of resistance and predictive biomarkers of response to targeted therapies and immunotherapies in metastatic melanoma. Curr Opin Oncol 2020; 32:91-97. [PMID: 31833956 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000000603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Thanks to mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitors (MAPKi) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), major progress has been made in the field of melanoma treatment. However, long-term success is still scarce because of the development of resistance. Understanding these mechanisms of resistance and identifying predictive genomic biomarkers are now key points in the therapeutic management of melanoma patients. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple and complex mechanisms of resistance to MAPKi or ICI have been uncovered in the past few years. The lack of response can be driven by mutations and nonmutational events in tumor cells, as well as by changes in the tumor microenvironment. Melanoma cells are also capable of rapidly switching their molecular and cellular phenotype, leading to an initial drug-tolerant favorizing melanoma resistance. Tumor molecular profiling and circulating tumor cell analyses are of high interest as predictive biomarkers as well as studying immunogenic changes and microbiome in ICI-treated patients. SUMMARY Resistance to MAPKi and ICI is a key point in therapeutic management of metastatic melanoma patients. Validated biomarkers predicting response to therapy are urgently needed to move toward personalized medicine. Combinatory treatments guided by the understanding of resistance mechanisms will be of major importance in the future of melanoma therapy.
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De Cicco P, Ercolano G, Ianaro A. The New Era of Cancer Immunotherapy: Targeting Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells to Overcome Immune Evasion. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1680. [PMID: 32849585 PMCID: PMC7406792 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Suppression of antitumor immune responses is one of the main mechanisms by which tumor cells escape from destruction by the immune system. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) represent the main immunosuppressive cells present in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that sustain cancer progression. MDSCs are a heterogeneous group of immature myeloid cells with a potent activity against T-cell. Studies in mice have demonstrated that MDSCs accumulate in several types of cancer where they promote invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis formation and inhibit antitumor immunity. In addition, different clinical studies have shown that MDSCs levels in the peripheral blood of cancer patients correlates with tumor burden, stage and with poor prognosis in multiple malignancies. Thus, MDSCs are the major obstacle to many cancer immunotherapies and their targeting may be a beneficial strategy for improvement the efficiency of immunotherapeutic interventions. However, the great heterogeneity of these cells makes their identification in human cancer very challenging. Since both the phenotype and mechanisms of action of MDSCs appear to be tumor-dependent, it is important to accurately characterized the precise MDSC subsets that have clinical relevance in each tumor environment to more efficiently target them. In this review we summarize the phenotype and the suppressive mechanisms of MDSCs populations expanded within different tumor contexts. Further, we discuss about their clinical relevance for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola De Cicco
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ercolano
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Angela Ianaro
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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MicroRNA-21-Enriched Exosomes as Epigenetic Regulators in Melanomagenesis and Melanoma Progression: The Impact of Western Lifestyle Factors. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082111. [PMID: 32751207 PMCID: PMC7464294 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA mutation-induced activation of RAS-BRAF-MEK-ERK signaling associated with intermittent or chronic ultraviolet (UV) irradiation cannot exclusively explain the excessive increase of malignant melanoma (MM) incidence since the 1950s. Malignant conversion of a melanocyte to an MM cell and metastatic MM is associated with a steady increase in microRNA-21 (miR-21). At the epigenetic level, miR-21 inhibits key tumor suppressors of the RAS-BRAF signaling pathway enhancing proliferation and MM progression. Increased MM cell levels of miR-21 either result from endogenous upregulation of melanocytic miR-21 expression or by uptake of miR-21-enriched exogenous exosomes. Based on epidemiological data and translational evidence, this review provides deeper insights into environmentally and metabolically induced exosomal miR-21 trafficking beyond UV-irradiation in melanomagenesis and MM progression. Sources of miR-21-enriched exosomes include UV-irradiated keratinocytes, adipocyte-derived exosomes in obesity, airway epithelium-derived exosomes generated by smoking and pollution, diet-related exosomes and inflammation-induced exosomes, which may synergistically increase the exosomal miR-21 burden of the melanocyte, the transformed MM cell and its tumor environment. Several therapeutic agents that suppress MM cell growth and proliferation attenuate miR-21 expression. These include miR-21 antagonists, metformin, kinase inhibitors, beta-blockers, vitamin D, and plant-derived bioactive compounds, which may represent new options for the prevention and treatment of MM.
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Bellenghi M, Puglisi R, Pontecorvi G, De Feo A, Carè A, Mattia G. Sex and Gender Disparities in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1819. [PMID: 32645881 PMCID: PMC7408637 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, the total incidence of cutaneous melanoma is higher in men than in women, with some differences related to ethnicity and age and, above all, sex and gender. Differences exist in respect to the anatomic localization of melanoma, in that it is more frequent on the trunk in men and on the lower limbs in women. A debated issue is if-and to what extent-melanoma development can be attributed to gender-specific behaviors or to biologically intrinsic differences. In the search for factors responsible for the divergences, a pivotal role of sex hormones has been observed, although conflicting results indicate the involvement of other mechanisms. The presence on the X chromosome of numerous miRNAs and coding genes playing immunological roles represents another important factor, whose relevance can be even increased by the incomplete X chromosome random inactivation. Considering the known advantages of the female immune system, a different cancer immune surveillance efficacy was suggested to explain some sex disparities. Indeed, the complexity of this picture emerged when the recently developed immunotherapies unexpectedly showed better improvements in men than in women. Altogether, these data support the necessity of further studies, which consider enrolling a balanced number of men and women in clinical trials to better understand the differences and obtain actual gender-equitable healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bellenghi
- Center for Gender-specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (R.P.); (G.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Rossella Puglisi
- Center for Gender-specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (R.P.); (G.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Giada Pontecorvi
- Center for Gender-specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (R.P.); (G.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Alessandra De Feo
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Carè
- Center for Gender-specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (R.P.); (G.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Gianfranco Mattia
- Center for Gender-specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (R.P.); (G.P.); (G.M.)
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Grzywa TM, Klicka K, Paskal W, Dudkiewicz J, Wejman J, Pyzlak M, Włodarski PK. miR-410-3p is induced by vemurafenib via ER stress and contributes to resistance to BRAF inhibitor in melanoma. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234707. [PMID: 32555626 PMCID: PMC7299409 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite significant development of melanoma therapies, death rates remain high. MicroRNAs, controlling posttranscriptionally gene expression, play role in development of resistance to BRAF inhibitors. The aim of the study was to assess the role of miR-410-3p in response to vemurafenib-BRAF inhibitor. FFPE tissue samples of 12 primary nodular melanomas were analyzed. With the use of Laser Capture Microdissection, parts of tumor, transient tissue, and adjacent healthy tissue were separated. In vitro experiments were conducted on human melanoma cell lines A375, G361, and SK-MEL1. IC50s of vemurafenib were determined using MTT method. Cells were transfected with miR-410-3p mimic, anti-miR-410-3p and their non-targeting controls. ER stress was induced by thapsigargin. Expression of isolated RNA was determined using qRT-PCR. We have found miR-410-3p is downregulated in melanoma tissues. Its expression is induced by vemurafenib in melanoma cells. Upregulation of miR-410-3p level increased melanoma cells resistance to vemurafenib, while its inhibition led to the decrease of resistance. Induction of ER stress increased the level of miR-410-3p. miR-410-3p upregulated the expression of AXL in vitro and correlated with markers of invasive phenotype in starBase. The study shows a novel mechanism of melanoma resistance. miR-410-3p is induced by vemurafenib in melanoma cells via ER stress. It drives switching to the invasive phenotype that leads to the response and resistance to BRAF inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz M. Grzywa
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Klaudia Klicka
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wiktor Paskal
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Julia Dudkiewicz
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jarosław Wejman
- Department of Pathology, Medical Center of Postgraduate Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Pyzlak
- Department of Pathology, Medical Center of Postgraduate Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł K. Włodarski
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Kyriakou G, Melachrinou M. Cancer stem cells, epigenetics, tumor microenvironment and future therapeutics in cutaneous malignant melanoma: a review. Future Oncol 2020; 16:1549-1567. [PMID: 32484008 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-0151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review provides an overview of the current understanding of the ontogeny and biology of melanoma stem cells in cutaneous malignant melanoma. This article also summarizes and evaluates the current knowledge of the underlying epigenetic mechanisms, the regulation of melanoma progress by the tumor microenvironment as well as the therapeutic implications and applications of these novel insights, in the setting of personalized medicine. Unraveling the complex ecosystem of cutaneous malignant melanoma and the interplay between its components, aims to provide novel insights into the establishment of efficient therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Kyriakou
- Department of Dermatology, University General Hospital of Patras, Rion 265 04, Greece
| | - Maria Melachrinou
- Department of Pathology, University General Hospital of Patras, Rion 265 04, Greece
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Ma D, Li S, Nie X, Chen L, Chen N, Hou D, Liu X, Gao B. RNAi-mediated IARS2 knockdown inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis in human melanoma A375 cells. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:1093-1100. [PMID: 32724348 PMCID: PMC7377047 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11688] [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: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
IARS2, which encodes the mitochondrial form of isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, has been found to play an important role in a range of diseases, including cancer. However, the relationship between IARS2 and melanoma is still unclear. To evaluate the role of IARS2 in melanoma, we constructed a stable A375 cell line with IARS2 knockdown via lentivirus-mediated small interfering RNAs. The expression of IARS2 was measured by real time-quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction and western blot analysis. Cell counting, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and colony formation assay were conducted to assess the effect of IARS2 on melanoma cell proliferation. Flow cytometry assay was used to determine cell apoptosis and cell cycle distribution in melanoma A375 cells. Finally, immunohistochemistry was employed to validate the expression of IARS2 protein in melanoma tissues. In this study it was found that IARS2 was highly expressed in melanoma cell lines. Furthermore, IARS2 protein also exhibited elevated expression in the tumour tissues obtained from melanoma patients. After suppression of the mRNA expression of IARS2, the proliferation and colony formation ability of the A375 cells were significantly inhibited, while the proportion of apoptotic A375 cells increased significantly, as indicated by an enhanced phosphatidylserine externalization and caspase 3/7 activity after IARS2 knockdown. Further investigations found that knockdown of IARS2 arrested cells in the G1 phase. The results suggested that IARS2 is critical for proliferation and apoptosis of melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Ma
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Song Li
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojuan Nie
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Lamei Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Nan Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Dongsheng Hou
- Department of Pathology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Xiuhong Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Kun Ming Medical University, Yuxi, Yunnan 653100, P.R. China
| | - Binbin Gao
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
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Dika E, Riefolo M, Porcellini E, Broseghini E, Ribero S, Senetta R, Osella-Abate S, Scarfì F, Lambertini M, Veronesi G, Patrizi A, Fanti PA, Ferracin M. Defining the Prognostic Role of MicroRNAs in Cutaneous Melanoma. J Invest Dermatol 2020; 140:2260-2267. [PMID: 32275975 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2020.03.949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Breslow thickness (BT) is the most important histopathologic factor for primary melanoma staging. BT determines the margins for wide local excision whether sentinel lymph node biopsy should be performed and subsequent melanoma staging, and patient management. The correct determination of a 0.8-mm cutoff in melanoma is important for pathologists because discrepancies leading to a change in stage can have significant clinical implications, including incorrect and/or inappropriate prognostic information, investigation, management, and follow-up. Difficulties in BT determination are mostly represented by the presence of regression or melanoma associated with a pre-existing nevus. This study aimed at investigating a molecular parameter, namely microRNA (miRNA) expression, in reference to BT assessment. Melanoma cell proliferation is influenced by miRNA dysregulation. Indeed, some miRNAs sustain and induce proliferative signals or repress growth-suppressive pathways, thereby promoting melanoma carcinogenesis. To identify the miRNAs correlating with BT, we analyzed our global miRNA expression data of 20 thin melanomas and identified two potential candidates, miR-21-5p and miR-146a-5p. We assessed the expression of these two specific miRNAs in 90 archive formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded samples of superficially spreading melanomas (SSMs) and 25 nodular melanomas from two independent cohorts and correlated the individual and combined miRNA expression with BT and other tumor characteristics. The individually normalized expression of miR-21-5p and miR-146a-5p showed a highly significant and linear correlation with BT in SSM, and their combined expression value was more strongly correlated (Pearson's r = 0.799, 95% CI = 0.71-0.86) than their individual expressions. This correlation was not significant in nodular melanoma. In SSM, we observed that the combined miRNA expression above or below 1.5 was significantly associated with overall survival and successfully identified all patients with relapsing SSM. We concluded that the combined assessment of miR-21-5p and miR-146a-5p expression in superficially spreading melanoma, in association with BT measurement, could aid pathologists in SSM staging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emi Dika
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Dermatology Unit, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Mattia Riefolo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Porcellini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Broseghini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simone Ribero
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Rebecca Senetta
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Simona Osella-Abate
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Federica Scarfì
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Dermatology Unit, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Lambertini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Dermatology Unit, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Veronesi
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Dermatology Unit, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Patrizi
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Dermatology Unit, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pier Alessandro Fanti
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Dermatology Unit, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Fattore L, Campani V, Ruggiero CF, Salvati V, Liguoro D, Scotti L, Botti G, Ascierto PA, Mancini R, De Rosa G, Ciliberto G. In Vitro Biophysical and Biological Characterization of Lipid Nanoparticles Co-Encapsulating Oncosuppressors miR-199b-5p and miR-204-5p as Potentiators of Target Therapy in Metastatic Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1930. [PMID: 32178301 PMCID: PMC7139872 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21061930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Uncontrolled MAPK signaling is the main oncogenic driver in metastatic melanomas bearing mutations in BRAF kinase. These tumors are currently treated with the combination of BRAF/MEK inhibitors (MAPKi), but this therapy is plagued by drug resistance. In this context we recently discovered that several microRNAs are involved in the development of drug resistance. In particular miR-204-5p and miR-199b-5p were found to function as antagonists of resistance because their enforced overexpression is able to inhibit melanoma cell growth in vitro either alone or in combination with MAPKi. However, the use of miRNAs in therapy is hampered by their rapid degradation in serum and biological fluids, as well as by the poor intracellular uptake. Here, we developed lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) encapsulating miR-204-5p, miR-199b-5p individually or in combination. We obtained LNPs with mean diameters < 200 nm and high miRNA encapsulation efficiency. These formulations were tested in vitro on several melanoma cell lines sensitive to MAPKi or rendered drug resistant. Our results show that LNPs encapsulating combinations of the two oncosuppressor miRNAs are highly efficient in impairing melanoma cell proliferation and viability, affect key signaling pathways involved in melanoma cell survival, and potentiate the efficacy of drugs inhibiting BRAF and MEK. These results warrant further assessment of the anti-tumor efficacy of oncosuppressor miRNAs encapsulating LNPs in in vivo tumor models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Fattore
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (G.B.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Virginia Campani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (L.S.); (G.D.R.)
| | - Ciro Francesco Ruggiero
- IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Tumori “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy; (C.F.R.); (V.S.)
| | - Valentina Salvati
- IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Tumori “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy; (C.F.R.); (V.S.)
| | - Domenico Liguoro
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Roma “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.L.); (R.M.)
| | - Lorena Scotti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (L.S.); (G.D.R.)
| | - Gerardo Botti
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (G.B.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Paolo Antonio Ascierto
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (G.B.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Roma “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.L.); (R.M.)
| | - Giuseppe De Rosa
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (L.S.); (G.D.R.)
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Tumori “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy; (C.F.R.); (V.S.)
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Baskara-Yhuellou I, Tost J. The impact of microRNAs on alterations of gene regulatory networks in allergic diseases. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2020; 120:237-312. [PMID: 32085883 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2019.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Allergic diseases including asthma are worldwide on the rise and contribute significantly to health expenditures. Allergic diseases are prototypic diseases with a strong gene by environment interaction component and epigenetic mechanisms might mediate the effects of the environment on the disease phenotype. MicroRNAs, small non-coding RNAs (miRNAs), regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. Functional single-stranded miRNAs are generated in multiple steps of enzymatic processing from their precursors and mature miRNAs are included into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). They imperfectly base-pair with the 3'UTR region of targeted genes leading to translational repression or mRNA decay. The cellular context and microenvironment as well the isoform of the mRNA control the dynamics and complexity of the regulatory circuits induced by miRNAs that regulate cell fate decisions and function. MiR-21, miR-146a/b and miR-155 are among the best understood miRNAs of the immune system and implicated in different diseases including allergic diseases. MiRNAs are implicated in the induction of the allergy reinforcing the Th2 phenotype (miR-19a, miR-24, miR-27), while other miRNAs promote regulatory T cells associated with allergen tolerance or unresponsiveness. In the current chapter we describe in detail the biogenesis and regulatory function of miRNAs and summarize current knowledge on miRNAs in allergic diseases and allergy relevant cell fate decisions focusing mainly on immune cells. Furthermore, we evoke the principles of regulatory loops and feedback mechanisms involving miRNAs on examples with relevance for allergic diseases. Finally, we show the potential of miRNAs and exosomes containing miRNAs present in several biological fluids that can be exploited with non-invasive procedures for diagnostic and potentially therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indoumady Baskara-Yhuellou
- Laboratory for Epigenetics & Environment, Centre National de Recherche en Génomique Humaine, CEA-Institut de Biologie François Jacob, Evry, France
| | - Jörg Tost
- Laboratory for Epigenetics & Environment, Centre National de Recherche en Génomique Humaine, CEA-Institut de Biologie François Jacob, Evry, France
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Lorusso C, De Summa S, Pinto R, Danza K, Tommasi S. miRNAs as Key Players in the Management of Cutaneous Melanoma. Cells 2020; 9:E415. [PMID: 32054078 PMCID: PMC7072468 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of treatment options for melanoma patients has grown in the past few years, leading to considerable improvements in both overall and progression-free survival. Targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors have opened a new era in the management of melanoma patients. Despite the clinical advances, further research efforts are needed to identify other "druggable" targets and new biomarkers to improve the stratification of melanoma patients who could really benefit from targeted and immunotherapies. To this end, many studies have focused on the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) that are small non-coding RNAs (18-25 nucleotides in length), which post-transcriptionally regulate the expression of their targets. In cancer, they can behave either as oncogenes or oncosuppressive genes and play a central role in many intracellular pathways involved in proliferation and invasion. Given their modulating activity on the transcriptional landscape, their biological role is under investigation to study resistance mechanisms. They are able to mediate the communication between tumor cells and their microenvironment and regulate tumor immunity through direct regulation of the genes involved in immune activation or suppression. To date, a very promising miRNA-based strategy is to use them as prognosis and diagnosis biomarkers both as cell-free miRNAs and extracellular-vesicle miRNAs. However, miRNAs have a complex role since they target different genes in different cellular conditions. Thus, the ultimate aim of studies has been to recapitulate their role in melanoma in biological networks that account for miRNA/gene expression and mutational state. In this review, we will provide an overview of current scientific knowledge regarding the oncogenic or oncosuppressive role of miRNAs in melanoma and their use as biomarkers, with respect to approved therapies for melanoma treatment.
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Detection of Gene Mutations in Liquid Biopsy of Melanoma Patients: Overview and Future Perspectives. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2020; 21:19. [PMID: 32048063 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-020-0708-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Liquid biopsies are still far from widely implanted in the clinical arena. Issues related to the added sensitivity of this test beyond conventional methods have not been fully resolved. Additionally, issues related to the specificity of these results especially as many cancers may share common mutation need further investigations. One way to resolve this may include the development and testing of large gene panels to add higher specificity. On the other hand, further studies are needed to support the idea that ctDNA or circulating tumor cells may constitute a better representation of the tumor subpopulation that is capable of metastasizing, which will strongly support its clinical value. Finally, survival studies showing a positive impact of this technology will also justify its widespread implementation in clinical practice.
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The miRNAs Role in Melanoma and in Its Resistance to Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030878. [PMID: 32013263 PMCID: PMC7037367 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the less common but the most malignant skin cancer. Since the survival rate of melanoma metastasis is about 10–15%, many different studies have been carried out in order to find a more effective treatment. Although the development of target-based therapies and immunotherapeutic strategies has improved chances for patient survival, melanoma treatment still remains a big challenge for oncologists. Here, we collect recent data about the emerging role of melanoma-associated microRNAs (miRNAs) currently available treatments, and their involvement in drug resistance. We also reviewed miRNAs as prognostic factors, because of their chemical stability and resistance to RNase activity, in melanoma progression. Moreover, despite miRNAs being considered small conserved regulators with the limitation of target specificity, we outline the dual role of melanoma-associated miRNAs, as oncogenic and/or tumor suppressive factors, compared to other tumors.
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Linck-Paulus L, Hellerbrand C, Bosserhoff AK, Dietrich P. Dissimilar Appearances Are Deceptive-Common microRNAs and Therapeutic Strategies in Liver Cancer and Melanoma. Cells 2020; 9:cells9010114. [PMID: 31906510 PMCID: PMC7017070 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on miRNAs as therapeutic targets in two cancer types that were frequently described to be driven by miRNAs—melanoma and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). By focusing on common microRNAs and associated pathways in these—at first sight—dissimilar cancer types, we aim at revealing similar molecular mechanisms that are evolved in microRNA-biology to drive cancer progression. Thereby, we also want to outlay potential novel therapeutic strategies. After providing a brief introduction to general miRNA biology and basic information about HCC and melanoma, this review depicts prominent examples of potent oncomiRs and tumor-suppressor miRNAs, which have been proven to drive diverse cancer types including melanoma and HCC. To develop and apply miRNA-based therapeutics for cancer treatment in the future, it is essential to understand how miRNA dysregulation evolves during malignant transformation. Therefore, we highlight important aspects such as genetic alterations, miRNA editing and transcriptional regulation based on concrete examples. Furthermore, we expand our illustration by focusing on miRNA-associated proteins as well as other regulators of miRNAs which could also provide therapeutic targets. Finally, design and delivery strategies of miRNA-associated therapeutic agents as well as potential drawbacks are discussed to address the question of how miRNAs might contribute to cancer therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Linck-Paulus
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.L.-P.); (C.H.)
| | - Claus Hellerbrand
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.L.-P.); (C.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) Erlangen-EMN, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anja K. Bosserhoff
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.L.-P.); (C.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) Erlangen-EMN, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.K.B.); (P.D.); Tel.: +49-9131-85-24190 (A.K.B.); +49-9131-85-29384 (P.D.)
| | - Peter Dietrich
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.L.-P.); (C.H.)
- Department of Medicine 1, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.K.B.); (P.D.); Tel.: +49-9131-85-24190 (A.K.B.); +49-9131-85-29384 (P.D.)
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Horak V, Palanova A, Cizkova J, Miltrova V, Vodicka P, Kupcova Skalnikova H. Melanoma-Bearing Libechov Minipig (MeLiM): The Unique Swine Model of Hereditary Metastatic Melanoma. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:E915. [PMID: 31717496 PMCID: PMC6895830 DOI: 10.3390/genes10110915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
National cancer databases document that melanoma is the most aggressive and deadly cutaneous malignancy with worldwide increasing incidence in the Caucasian population. Around 10% of melanomas occur in families. Several germline mutations were identified that might help to indicate individuals at risk for preventive interventions and early disease detection. More than 50% of sporadic melanomas carry mutations in Ras/Raf/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK/MEK) pathway, which may represent aims of novel targeted therapies. Despite advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapies, the outcomes in metastatic tumor are still unsatisfactory. Here, we review animal models that help our understanding of melanoma development and treatment, including non-vertebrate, mouse, swine, and other mammal models, with an emphasis on those with spontaneously developing melanoma. Special attention is paid to the melanoma-bearing Libechov minipig (MeLiM). This original swine model of hereditary metastatic melanoma enables studying biological processes underlying melanoma progression, as well as spontaneous regression. Current histological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, genetic, hematological, immunological, and skin microbiome findings in the MeLiM model are summarized, together with development of new therapeutic approaches based on tumor devitalization. The ongoing study of molecular and immunological base of spontaneous regression in MeLiM model has potential to bring new knowledge of clinical importance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Helena Kupcova Skalnikova
- Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Laboratory of Applied Proteome Analyses and Research Center PIGMOD, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic; (V.H.); (A.P.); (J.C.); (V.M.); (P.V.)
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Zamarian V, Catozzi C, Ressel L, Finotello R, Ceciliani F, Vilafranca M, Altimira J, Lecchi C. MicroRNA Expression in Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded Samples of Canine Cutaneous and Oral Melanoma by RT-qPCR. Vet Pathol 2019; 56:848-855. [PMID: 31526125 DOI: 10.1177/0300985819868646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small, noncoding RNA that post-transcriptionally regulate protein expression. miRNAs are emerging as clinical biomarkers of many diseases, including tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate whether miRNA expression could vary in melanoma samples derived from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. The study included 4 groups: (1) 9 samples of oral canine malignant melanoma, (2) 10 samples of cutaneous malignant melanoma, (3) 5 samples of healthy oral mucosa, and (4) 7 samples of healthy skin. The expression levels of 6 miRNAs-miR-145, miR-146a, miR-425-5p, miR-223, miR-365, and miR-134-were detected and assessed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) using TaqMan probes. Cutaneous canine malignant melanoma showed a decrease of the expression level of miR-145 and miR-365 and an increase of miR-146a and miR-425-5p compared to control samples. MiR-145 was also downregulated in oral canine malignant melanoma. The miRNAs with decreased expression may regulate genes involved in RAS, Rap1, and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling pathways, as well as upregulated genes associated with phosphatidylinositol signaling system, adherens junction, and RAS signaling pathways. In conclusion, miR-145, miR-365, miR-146a, and miR-425-5p were differentially expressed in canine malignant melanoma and healthy FFPE samples, suggesting that they may play a role in canine malignant melanoma pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Zamarian
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Carlotta Catozzi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ressel
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Public Health Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Riccardo Finotello
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Fabrizio Ceciliani
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Jaume Altimira
- HISTOVET Veterinary Diagnostic Service, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Lecchi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
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Single cell analysis to dissect molecular heterogeneity and disease evolution in metastatic melanoma. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:827. [PMID: 31672982 PMCID: PMC6823362 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-2048-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Originally described as interpatient variability, tumour heterogeneity has now been demonstrated to occur intrapatiently, within the same lesion, or in different lesions of the same patient. Tumour heterogeneity involves both genetic and epigenetic changes. Intrapatient heterogeneity is responsible for generating subpopulations of cancer cells which undergo clonal evolution with time. Tumour heterogeneity develops also as a consequence of the selective pressure imposed by the immune system. It has been demonstrated that tumour heterogeneity and different spatiotemporal interactions between all the cellular compontents within the tumour microenvironment lead to cancer adaptation and to therapeutic pressure. In this context, the recent advent of single cell analysis approaches which are able to better study tumour heterogeneity from the genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic standpoint represent a major technological breakthrough. In this review, using metastatic melanoma as a prototypical example, we will focus on applying single cell analyses to the study of clonal trajectories which guide the evolution of drug resistance to targeted therapy.
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Rahman MM, Lai YC, Husna AA, Chen HW, Tanaka Y, Kawaguchi H, Miyoshi N, Nakagawa T, Fukushima R, Miura N. Micro RNA Transcriptome Profile in Canine Oral Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E4832. [PMID: 31569419 PMCID: PMC6801976 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) dysregulation contribute the cancer pathogenesis. However, the miRNA profile of canine oral melanoma (COM), one of the frequent malignant melanoma in dogs is still unrevealed. The aim of this study is to reveal the miRNA profile in canine oral melanoma. MiRNAs profile of oral tissues from normal healthy dogs and COM patients were compared by next-generation sequencing. Along with tumour suppressor miRNAs, we report 30 oncogenic miRNAs in COM. The expressions of miRNAs were further confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Pathway analysis showed that deregulated miRNAs impact on cancer and signalling pathways. Three oncogenic miRNAs targets (miR-450b, 301a, and 223) from human study also were down-regulated in COM and had a significant negative correlation with their respective miRNA. Furthermore, we found that miR-450b expression is higher in metastatic cells and regulated MMP9 expression through a PAX9-BMP4-MMP9 axis. In silico analysis indicated that miR-126, miR-20b, and miR-106a regulated the highest numbers of differentially expressed transcription factors with respect to human melanoma. Chromosomal enrichment analysis revealed the X chromosome was enriched with oncogenic miRNAs. We comprehensively analyzed the miRNA's profile in COM which will be a useful resource for developing therapeutic interventions in both species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Mahfuzur Rahman
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan.
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan.
| | - Yu-Chang Lai
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan.
| | - Al Asmaul Husna
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan.
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan.
| | - Hui-Wen Chen
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan.
| | - Yuiko Tanaka
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-8654, Japan.
| | - Hiroaki Kawaguchi
- Hygiene and Health Promotion Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medicine and Dental Science, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan.
| | - Noriaki Miyoshi
- Department of Veterinary Histopathology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan.
| | - Takayuki Nakagawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-8654, Japan.
| | - Ryuji Fukushima
- Animal Medical Centre, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Tokyo 183-8538, Japan.
| | - Naoki Miura
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan.
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan.
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan.
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ErbB3 Phosphorylation as Central Event in Adaptive Resistance to Targeted Therapy in Metastatic Melanoma: Early Detection in CTCs during Therapy and Insights into Regulation by Autocrine Neuregulin. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101425. [PMID: 31557826 PMCID: PMC6826737 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years the introduction of target therapies with BRAF and MEK inhibitors (MAPKi) and of immunotherapy with anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibodies have dramatically improved survival of metastatic melanoma patients. Despite these changes drug resistance remains a major hurdle. Several mechanisms are at the basis of drug resistance. Particular attention has been devoted over the last years to unravel mechanisms at the basis of adaptive/non genetic resistance occurring in BRAF mutated melanomas upon treatment with to MAPKi. In this paper we focus on the involvement of activation of ErbB3 receptor following early exposure of melanoma cells to BRAF or MEK inhibitors, and the following induction of PI3K/AKT pathway. Although different mechanisms have been invoked in the past at the basis of this activation we show here with a combination of approaches that autocrine production of neuregulin by melanoma cells is a major factor responsible for ErbB3 phosphorylation and downstream AKT activation. Interestingly the kinetic of neuregulin production and of the ensuing ErbB3 phosphorylation is different in different melanoma cell lines which underscores the high degree of tumor heterogeneity. Moreover, heterogeneity is further highlighted by the evidence that in different cell lines neuregulin upregulation can occur at the transcriptional or at the post-transcritpional level. Finally we complement our study by showing with a liquid biopsy assay that circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from melanoma patients undergo upregulation of ErbB3 phosphorylation in vivo shortly after initiation of therapy.
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Pizzato Scomazzon S, Riccio A, Santopolo S, Lanzilli G, Coccia M, Rossi A, Santoro MG. The Zinc-Finger AN1-Type Domain 2a Gene Acts as a Regulator of Cell Survival in Human Melanoma: Role of E3-Ligase cIAP2. Mol Cancer Res 2019; 17:2444-2456. [DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-19-0243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Menezes ME, Talukdar S, Wechman SL, Das SK, Emdad L, Sarkar D, Fisher PB. Prospects of Gene Therapy to Treat Melanoma. Adv Cancer Res 2019; 138:213-237. [PMID: 29551128 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2018.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of melanoma has continued to increase over the past 30 years. Hence, developing effective therapies to treat both primary and metastatic melanoma are essential. While advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have provided novel therapeutic options to treat melanoma, gene therapy may provide additional strategies for the treatment of metastatic melanoma clinically. This review focuses upon the challenges and opportunities that gene therapy provides for targeting melanoma. We begin with a discussion of the various gene therapy targets which are relevant to melanoma. Next, we explore the gene therapy clinical trials that have been conducted for treating melanoma. Finally, challenges faced in gene therapy as well as combination therapies for targeting melanoma, which may circumvent these obstacles, will be discussed. Targeted combination gene therapy strategies hold significant promise for developing the most effective therapeutic outcomes, while reducing the toxicity to noncancerous cells, and would integrate the patient's immune system to diminish melanoma progression. Next-generation vectors designed to embody required safety profiles and "theranostic" attributes, combined with immunotherapeutic strategies would be critical in achieving beneficial management and therapeutic outcomes in melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell E Menezes
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Sarmistha Talukdar
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Stephen L Wechman
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Swadesh K Das
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Luni Emdad
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Devanand Sarkar
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Paul B Fisher
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.
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NRF1 and NRF2 mRNA and Protein Expression Decrease Early during Melanoma Carcinogenesis: An Insight into Survival and MicroRNAs. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:2647068. [PMID: 31687076 PMCID: PMC6794976 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2647068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The prognostic significance of the major redox regulator nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (NRF2) is recognized in many cancers, but the role of NRF1 is not generally well understood in cancer. Our aim was to investigate these redox transcription factors in conjunction with redox-related microRNAs in naevi and melanoma. We characterized the immunohistochemical expression of NRF1 and NRF2 in 99 naevi, 88 primary skin melanomas, and 67 lymph node metastases. In addition, NRF1 and NRF2 mRNA and miR-23B, miR-93, miR-144, miR-212, miR-340, miR-383, and miR-510 levels were analysed with real-time qPCR from 54 paraffin-embedded naevi and melanoma samples. The immunohistochemical expression of nuclear NRF1 decreased from benign to dysplastic naevi (p < 0.001) and to primary melanoma (p < 0.001) and from primary melanoma to metastatic lesions (p = 0.012). Also, NRF1 mRNA levels decreased from benign naevi to dysplastic naevi (p = 0.034). Similarly, immunopositivity of NRF2 decreased from benign to dysplastic naevi (p = 0.02) and to primary lesions (p = 0.018). NRF2 mRNA decreased from benign to dysplastic naevi and primary melanomas (p = 0.012). Analysis from the Gene Expression Omnibus datasets supported the mRNA findings. High nuclear immunohistochemical NRF1 expression in pigment cells associated with a worse survival (p = 0.048) in patients with N0 disease at the time of diagnosis, and high nuclear NRF2 expression in pigment cells associated with a worse survival (p = 0.033) in patients with M0 disease at the time of diagnosis. In multivariate analysis, neither of these variables exceeded the prognostic power of Breslow. The levels of miR-144 and miR-212 associated positively with ulceration (p = 0.012 and p = 0.027, respectively) while miR-510 levels associated positively with lymph node metastases at the time of diagnosis (p = 0.004). Furthermore, the miRNAs correlated negatively with the immunohistochemical expression of NRF1 and NRF2 but positively with their respective mRNA. Together, this data sheds new light about NFE2L family factors in pigment tumors and suggests that these factors are worth for further explorations.
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50
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Rossi A, Roberto M, Panebianco M, Botticelli A, Mazzuca F, Marchetti P. Drug resistance of BRAF-mutant melanoma: Review of up-to-date mechanisms of action and promising targeted agents. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 862:172621. [PMID: 31446019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.172621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma onset and progression are associated with a high variety of activating mutations in the MAPK-pathway, most frequently involving BRAF (35-45%) and NRAS (15-25%) genes, but also c-KIT and PTEN. Targeted therapies with BRAF and MEK inhibitors showed promising results over the past years, but it is known that most responses are temporary, and almost all of patients develop a tumor relapse within one year. Different drug-resistance mechanisms underlie the progression of disease and activation of both MAPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways. Therefore, in this article we reviewed the main studies about clinical effects of several target inhibitors, describing properly the most prominent mechanisms of both intrinsic and acquired resistance. Furthermore, suggestive strategies for overcoming drug resistance and the most recent alternative combination therapies to optimize the use of MAPK pathway inhibitors were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rossi
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Roberto
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy; Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Translation Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy.
| | - Martina Panebianco
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Botticelli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Mazzuca
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Marchetti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy; Oncology Unit, IDI-IRCCS of Rome, Italy
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