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Weisbrod LJ, Thiraviyam A, Vengoji R, Shonka N, Jain M, Ho W, Batra SK, Salehi A. Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG): A review of current and emerging treatment strategies. Cancer Lett 2024; 590:216876. [PMID: 38609002 PMCID: PMC11231989 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a childhood malignancy of the brainstem with a dismal prognosis. Despite recent advances in its understanding at the molecular level, the prognosis of DIPG has remained unchanged. This article aims to review the current understanding of the genetic pathophysiology of DIPG and to highlight promising therapeutic targets. Various DIPG treatment strategies have been investigated in pre-clinical studies, several of which have shown promise and have been subsequently translated into ongoing clinical trials. Ultimately, a multifaceted therapeutic approach that targets cell-intrinsic alterations, the micro-environment, and augments the immune system will likely be necessary to eradicate DIPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke J Weisbrod
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Anand Thiraviyam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Raghupathy Vengoji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Nicole Shonka
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Winson Ho
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Afshin Salehi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Nebraska, Omaha, NE, 68114, USA.
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Xin DE, Liao Y, Rao R, Ogurek S, Sengupta S, Xin M, Bayat AE, Seibel WL, Graham RT, Koschmann C, Lu QR. Chaetocin-mediated SUV39H1 inhibition targets stemness and oncogenic networks of diffuse midline gliomas and synergizes with ONC201. Neuro Oncol 2024; 26:735-748. [PMID: 38011799 PMCID: PMC10995509 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noad222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG/DMG) are devastating pediatric brain tumors with extraordinarily limited treatment options and uniformly fatal prognosis. Histone H3K27M mutation is a common recurrent alteration in DIPG and disrupts epigenetic regulation. We hypothesize that genome-wide H3K27M-induced epigenetic dysregulation makes tumors vulnerable to epigenetic targeting. METHODS We performed a screen of compounds targeting epigenetic enzymes to identify potential inhibitors for the growth of patient-derived DIPG cells. We further carried out transcriptomic and genomic landscape profiling including RNA-seq and CUT&RUN-seq as well as shRNA-mediated knockdown to assess the effects of chaetocin and SUV39H1, a target of chaetocin, on DIPG growth. RESULTS High-throughput small-molecule screening identified an epigenetic compound chaetocin as a potent blocker of DIPG cell growth. Chaetocin treatment selectively decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis of DIPG cells and significantly extended survival in DIPG xenograft models, while restoring H3K27me3 levels. Moreover, the loss of H3K9 methyltransferase SUV39H1 inhibited DIPG cell growth. Transcriptomic and epigenomic profiling indicated that SUV39H1 loss or inhibition led to the downregulation of stemness and oncogenic networks including growth factor receptor signaling and stemness-related programs; however, D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) signaling adaptively underwent compensatory upregulation conferring resistance. Consistently, a combination of chaetocin treatment with a DRD2 antagonist ONC201 synergistically increased the antitumor efficacy. CONCLUSIONS Our studies reveal a therapeutic vulnerability of DIPG cells through targeting the SUV39H1-H3K9me3 pathway and compensatory signaling loops for treating this devastating disease. Combining SUV39H1-targeting chaetocin with other agents such as ONC201 may offer a new strategy for effective DIPG treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dazhuan Eric Xin
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Yunfei Liao
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Rohit Rao
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Sean Ogurek
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Soma Sengupta
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Mei Xin
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Arman Esshaghi Bayat
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - William L Seibel
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Richard T Graham
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Carl Koschmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Q Richard Lu
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Umaru B, Sengupta S, Senthil Kumar S, Drissi R. Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres in Pediatric High-Grade Glioma and Therapeutic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3070. [PMID: 37370681 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGGs), including diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), are highly aggressive tumors with dismal prognoses despite multimodal therapy including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. To achieve cellular immortality cancer cells must overcome replicative senescence and apoptosis by activating telomere maintenance mechanisms (TMMs) through the reactivation of telomerase activity or using alternative lengthening of telomere (ALT) pathways. Although the ALT phenotype is more prevalent in pHGGs compared to adult HGGs, the molecular pathway and the prognostic significance of ALT activation are not well understood in pHGGs. Here, we report the heterogeneity of TMM in pHGGs and their association with genetic alterations. Additionally, we show that sensitivity to the protein kinase ataxia telangiectasia- and RAD3-related protein (ATR) inhibitor and the ATR downstream target CHK1 is not specific to pHGG ALT-positive cells. Together, these findings underscore the need for novel therapeutic strategies to target ALT in pHGG tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banlanjo Umaru
- Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Satarupa Sengupta
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Shiva Senthil Kumar
- Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Rachid Drissi
- Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Liu C, Kuang S, Wu L, Cheng Q, Gong X, Wu J, Zhang L. Radiotherapy and radio-sensitization in H3 K27M -mutated diffuse midline gliomas. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023. [PMID: 37157237 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND H3K27M mutated diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) are extremely aggressive and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in pediatric brain tumors with 5-year survival <1%. Radiotherapy is the only established adjuvant treatment of H3K27M DMGs; however, the radio-resistance is commonly observed. METHODS We summarized current understandings of the molecular responses of H3K27M DMGs to radiotherapy and provide crucial insights into current advances in radiosensitivity enhancement. RESULTS Ionizing radiation (IR) can mainly inhibit tumor cell growth by inducing DNA damage regulated by the cell cycle checkpoints and DNA damage repair (DDR) system. In H3K27M DMGs, the aberrant genetic and epigenetic changes, stemness genotype, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) disrupt the cell cycle checkpoints and DDR system by altering the associated regulatory signaling pathways, which leads to the development of radio-resistance. CONCLUSIONS The advances in mechanisms of radio-resistance in H3K27M DMGs promote the potential targets to enhance the sensitivity to radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Liu
- Departments of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shuwen Kuang
- Departments of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lei Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Quan Cheng
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xuan Gong
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Longbo Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Lyu Y, Guo Y, Okeoma CM, Yan Z, Hu N, Li Z, Zhou S, Zhao X, Li J, Wang X. Engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs): Promising diagnostic/therapeutic tools for pediatric high-grade glioma. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114630. [PMID: 37094548 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114630] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a highly malignant brain tumor that mainly occurs in children with extremely low overall survival. Traditional therapeutic strategies, such as surgical resection and chemotherapy, are not feasible mostly due to the special location and highly diffused features. Radiotherapy turns out to be the standard treatment method but with limited benefits of overall survival. A broad search for novel and targeted therapies is in the progress of both preclinical investigations and clinical trials. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) emerged as a promising diagnostic and therapeutic candidate due to their distinct biocompatibility, excellent cargo-loading-delivery capacity, high biological barrier penetration efficiency, and ease of modification. The utilization of EVs in various diseases as biomarker diagnoses or therapeutic agents is revolutionizing modern medical research and practice. In this review, we will briefly talk about the research development of DIPG, and present a detailed description of EVs in medical applications, with a discussion on the application of engineered peptides on EVs. The possibility of applying EVs as a diagnostic tool and drug delivery system in DIPG is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Lyu
- Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Henan Joint International Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Yupei Guo
- Henan Joint International Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Chioma M Okeoma
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595-1524, USA
| | - Zhaoyue Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Nan Hu
- Henan Joint International Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Zian Li
- Henan Joint International Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Shaolong Zhou
- Henan Joint International Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Junqi Li
- Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Henan Joint International Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China.
| | - Xinjun Wang
- Henan Joint International Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China.
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Parsels LA, Wahl DR, Koschmann C, Morgan MA, Zhang Q. Developing H3K27M mutant selective radiosensitization strategies in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Neoplasia 2023; 37:100881. [PMID: 36724689 PMCID: PMC9918797 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2023.100881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a rare but highly lethal pediatric and adolescent tumor located in the pons of the brainstem. DIPGs harbor unique and specific pathological and molecular alterations, such as the hallmark lysine 27-to-methionine (H3K27M) mutation in histone H3, which lead to global changes in the epigenetic landscape and drive tumorigenesis. While fractionated radiotherapy, the current standard of care, improves symptoms and delays tumor progression, DIPGs inevitably recur, and despite extensive efforts chemotherapy-driven radiosensitization strategies have failed to improve survival. Advances in our understanding of the role of epigenetics in the cellular response to radiation-induced DNA damage, however, offer new opportunities to develop combinational therapeutic strategies selective for DIPGs expressing H3K27M. In this review, we provide an overview of preclinical studies that explore potential radiosensitization strategies targeting the unique epigenetic landscape of H3K27M mutant DIPG. We further discuss opportunities to selectively radiosensitize DIPG through strategic inhibition of the radiation-induced DNA damage response. Finally, we discuss the potential for using radiation to induce anti-tumor immune responses that may be potentiated in DIPG by radiosensitizing-therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Parsels
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Daniel R Wahl
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Carl Koschmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Meredith A Morgan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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Sengupta S, Senthil Kumar S, Bondra K, Sobo M, Mo X, Drissi R. Limitations of radiosensitization by direct telomerase inhibition to treat high-risk medulloblastoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1104670. [PMID: 36741010 PMCID: PMC9891285 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1104670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor. Previous studies have elucidated the genomic landscape of MB leading to the recognition of four core molecular subgroups (WNT, SHH, group 3 and group 4) with distinct clinical outcomes. Group 3 has the worst prognosis of all MB. Radiotherapy (RT) remains a major component in the treatment of poor prognosis MB but is rarely curative alone and is associated with acute and long-term toxicities. A hallmark of cancer cells is their unlimited proliferative potential which correlates closely with telomere length. The vast majority of malignant tumors activate telomerase to maintain telomere length, whereas this activity is barely detectable in most normal human somatic tissues, making telomerase inhibition a rational therapeutic target in the setting of cancer recurrence and therapy resistance. We and others have previously shown that short telomeres confer sensitivity to ionizing radiation (IR) suggesting that telomerase inhibition mediated telomere shortening will improve the efficacy of RT while minimizing its side effects. Here, we investigated the efficacy of the combination of IR with IMT, a potent telomerase inhibitor, in an in vivo model of group 3 MB. Our results indicate that although IMT inhibited MB telomerase activity resulting in telomere shortening and delayed tumor growth, the combination with IR did not prevent tumor recurrence and did not improve survival compared to the treatment with IR alone. Together, these findings suggest that the radiosensitization by direct telomerase inhibition is not an effective approach to treat high-risk pediatric brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satarupa Sengupta
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Shiva Senthil Kumar
- Center for Childhood Cancer, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Kathryn Bondra
- Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas (UT) Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Matthew Sobo
- Department of Technical and Scientific Support, Diapharma, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Xiaokui Mo
- Center for Biostatistics, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Rachid Drissi
- Center for Childhood Cancer, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, United States
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The Role of Epigenetics in Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1394:119-136. [PMID: 36587385 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-14732-6_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Identification of distinct genetic and epigenetic profiles in various neuroepithelial tumors has improved the classification and uncovered novel diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive molecular biomarkers for improved prediction of treatment response and outcome. Especially, in pediatric high-grade brain tumors, such as diffuse midline glioma, H3K27M-altered and posterior fossa group A-ependymoma, epigenetic changes predominate, along with changes in expression of known oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes induced by histone modifications and DNA methylation. The precise role of epigenetic abnormalities is important for understanding tumorigenesis and the establishment of brain tumor treatment strategies. Using powerful epigenetic-based therapies for cancer cells, the aberrantly regulated epigenome can be restored to a more normal state through epigenetic reprogramming. Combinations of agents targeting DNA methylation and/or other epigenetic modifications may be a promising cancer treatment. Therefore, the integration of multi-omics data including epigenomics is now important for classifying primary brain tumors and predicting their biological behavior. Recent advances in molecular genetics and epigenetic integrated diagnostics of brain tumors influence new strategies for targeted therapy.
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Guo Y, Zhang L, Ma Q. A novel association between Bmi-1 protein expression and the SUVmax obtained by 18F-FDG PET/CT in patients with gastric adenocarcinoma. Open Life Sci 2022; 17:1617-1628. [PMID: 36561502 PMCID: PMC9743198 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2022-0087] [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: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine B-cell-specific Moloney murine leukemia virus integration site 1 (Bmi-1) in gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) and its association with the maximal standard uptake value (SUVmax) of preoperative fluorine-18-fludeoosyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT). Clinicopathological data were retrospectively collected from 60 primary GAC patients. The Bmi-1 protein expression in GAC and adjacent noncancerous tissues was examined by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. Pearson's correlation analysis was conducted to assess the correlation between Bmi-1 expression and the SUVmax. The Bmi-1 protein levels were significantly greater in GAC versus noncancerous tissues, and higher Bmi-1 was significantly correlated with a lower degree of tumor differentiation, higher tumor stages, more lymph node metastasis, and depth of invasion. The SUVmax value was significantly correlated with the T stage, N stage, and clinical stage, but not with age, gender, tumor size, histological differentiation degree, or Lauren classification. Moreover, a significant positive correlation between Bmi-1 and SUVmax was observed in GAC tissues. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate a novel correlation between Bmi-1 and preoperative SUVmax in GAC patients who did not receive radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or targeted treatment before surgery, and both are positively correlated with unfavorable prognostic factors and a higher grade of malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Guo
- Department of Nephrology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, 126 Xiantai St. Changchun, Jilin 130033, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, 126 Xiantai St. Changchun, Jilin 130033, China
| | - Qingjie Ma
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, 126 Xiantai St., Changchun, Jilin 130033, China
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Panditharatna E, Marques JG, Wang T, Trissal MC, Liu I, Jiang L, Beck A, Groves A, Dharia NV, Li D, Hoffman SE, Kugener G, Shaw ML, Mire HM, Hack OA, Dempster JM, Lareau C, Dai L, Sigua LH, Quezada MA, Stanton ACJ, Wyatt M, Kalani Z, Goodale A, Vazquez F, Piccioni F, Doench JG, Root DE, Anastas JN, Jones KL, Conway AS, Stopka S, Regan MS, Liang Y, Seo HS, Song K, Bashyal P, Jerome WP, Mathewson ND, Dhe-Paganon S, Suvà ML, Carcaboso AM, Lavarino C, Mora J, Nguyen QD, Ligon KL, Shi Y, Agnihotri S, Agar NY, Stegmaier K, Stiles CD, Monje M, Golub TR, Qi J, Filbin MG. BAF Complex Maintains Glioma Stem Cells in Pediatric H3K27M Glioma. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:2880-2905. [PMID: 36305736 PMCID: PMC9716260 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-1491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse midline gliomas are uniformly fatal pediatric central nervous system cancers that are refractory to standard-of-care therapeutic modalities. The primary genetic drivers are a set of recurrent amino acid substitutions in genes encoding histone H3 (H3K27M), which are currently undruggable. These H3K27M oncohistones perturb normal chromatin architecture, resulting in an aberrant epigenetic landscape. To interrogate for epigenetic dependencies, we performed a CRISPR screen and show that patient-derived H3K27M-glioma neurospheres are dependent on core components of the mammalian BAF (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodeling complex. The BAF complex maintains glioma stem cells in a cycling, oligodendrocyte precursor cell-like state, in which genetic perturbation of the BAF catalytic subunit SMARCA4 (BRG1), as well as pharmacologic suppression, opposes proliferation, promotes progression of differentiation along the astrocytic lineage, and improves overall survival of patient-derived xenograft models. In summary, we demonstrate that therapeutic inhibition of the BAF complex has translational potential for children with H3K27M gliomas. SIGNIFICANCE Epigenetic dysregulation is at the core of H3K27M-glioma tumorigenesis. Here, we identify the BRG1-BAF complex as a critical regulator of enhancer and transcription factor landscapes, which maintain H3K27M glioma in their progenitor state, precluding glial differentiation, and establish pharmacologic targeting of the BAF complex as a novel treatment strategy for pediatric H3K27M glioma. See related commentary by Beytagh and Weiss, p. 2730. See related article by Mo et al., p. 2906.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eshini Panditharatna
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Joana G. Marques
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Tingjian Wang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Maria C. Trissal
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Ilon Liu
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Alexander Beck
- Center for Neuropathology, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andrew Groves
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Neekesh V. Dharia
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Deyao Li
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Samantha E. Hoffman
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Guillaume Kugener
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - McKenzie L. Shaw
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hafsa M. Mire
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Olivia A. Hack
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joshua M. Dempster
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Caleb Lareau
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Lingling Dai
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Logan H. Sigua
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michael A. Quezada
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Ann-Catherine J. Stanton
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Meghan Wyatt
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Zohra Kalani
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Amy Goodale
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Francisca Vazquez
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Federica Piccioni
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Merck Research Laboratories, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - John G. Doench
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - David E. Root
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Jamie N. Anastas
- Division of Newborn Medicine and Epigenetics Program, Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Neurosurgery and Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Kristen L. Jones
- Lurie Family Imaging Center, Center for Biomedical Imaging in Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amy Saur Conway
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sylwia Stopka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michael S. Regan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yu Liang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hyuk-Soo Seo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kijun Song
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Puspalata Bashyal
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - William P. Jerome
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nathan D. Mathewson
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Neurology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sirano Dhe-Paganon
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mario L. Suvà
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Angel M. Carcaboso
- Developmental Tumor Biology Laboratory, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cinzia Lavarino
- Developmental Tumor Biology Laboratory, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Mora
- Developmental Tumor Biology Laboratory, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Quang-De Nguyen
- Lurie Family Imaging Center, Center for Biomedical Imaging in Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Keith L. Ligon
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Department of Pathology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yang Shi
- Division of Newborn Medicine and Epigenetics Program, Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Oxford Branch, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sameer Agnihotri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Nathalie Y.R. Agar
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kimberly Stegmaier
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Charles D. Stiles
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Todd R. Golub
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Jun Qi
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mariella G. Filbin
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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11
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Badodi S, Pomella N, Lim YM, Brandner S, Morrison G, Pollard SM, Zhang X, Zabet NR, Marino S. Combination of BMI1 and MAPK/ERK inhibitors is effective in medulloblastoma. Neuro Oncol 2022; 24:1273-1285. [PMID: 35213723 PMCID: PMC9340634 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noac052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic changes play a key role in the pathogenesis of medulloblastoma (MB), the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor. METHODS We explore the therapeutic potential of BMI1 and MAPK/ERK inhibition in BMI1High;CHD7Low MB cells and in a preclinical xenograft model. RESULTS We identify a synergistic vulnerability of BMI1High;CHD7Low MB cells to a combination treatment with BMI1 and MAPK/ERK inhibitors. Mechanistically, CHD7-dependent binding of BMI1 to MAPK-regulated genes underpins the CHD7-BMI1-MAPK regulatory axis responsible of the antitumour effect of the inhibitors in vitro and in a preclinical mouse model. Increased ERK1 and ERK2 phosphorylation activity is found in BMI1High;CHD7Low G4 MB patients, raising the possibility that they could be amenable to a similar therapy. CONCLUSIONS The molecular dissection of the CHD7-BMI1-MAPK regulatory axis in BMI1High;CHD7Low MB identifies this signature as a proxy to predict MAPK functional activation, which can be effectively drugged in preclinical models, and paves the way for further exploration of combined BMI1 and MAPK targeting in G4 MB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Badodi
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Nicola Pomella
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Yau Mun Lim
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sebastian Brandner
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gillian Morrison
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine & Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Steven M Pollard
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine & Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Nicolae Radu Zabet
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Silvia Marino
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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12
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Al-Nadaf S, Peacott-Ricardos KS, Dickinson PJ, Rebhun RB, York D. Expression and therapeutic targeting of BMI1 in canine gliomas. Vet Comp Oncol 2022; 20:871-880. [PMID: 35833892 DOI: 10.1111/vco.12852] [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: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The BMI1 proto-oncogene, polycomb ring finger protein (BMI1) is a key component of the epigenetic polycomb repressor complex 1, and has been associated with aggressive behavior and chemotherapeutic resistance in various malignances including human gliomas. Similar to humans, spontaneous canine gliomas carry a poor prognosis with limited therapeutic options. BMI1 expression and the effects of BMI1 inhibition have not been evaluated in canine gliomas. Here, we demonstrate that BMI1 is highly expressed in canine gliomas. Although increased BMI1 protein expression correlated with higher glioma grade in western blot assays, this correlation was not observed in a larger sample set using immunohistochemical analysis. The BMI1 inhibitor, PTC-209, suppressed BMI1 expression in established canine glioma cell lines and resulted in antiproliferative activity when used alone and in combination with chemotherapeutic agents. PTC-209 targeting of BMI1 activated the RB pathway through downregulation of total and phosphorylated RB, independent of INK4A/ARF signaling, likely through BMI1-inhibition mediated upregulation of p21. These data support the rationale for targeting of BMI1 signaling and the use of canine glioma as a translational therapeutic model for human disease. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Al-Nadaf
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Kyle S Peacott-Ricardos
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Peter J Dickinson
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Robert B Rebhun
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Daniel York
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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13
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Da-Veiga MA, Rogister B, Lombard A, Neirinckx V, Piette C. Glioma Stem Cells in Pediatric High-Grade Gliomas: From Current Knowledge to Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092296. [PMID: 35565425 PMCID: PMC9099564 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pediatric high-grade glioma (pHGG) has a dismal prognosis in which the younger the patient, the more restricted the treatments are, in regard to the incurred risks. Current therapies destroy many tumor cells but fail to target the highly malignant glioma stem cells (GSCs) that adapt quickly to give rise to recurring, treatment-resistant cancers. Despite a lack of consensus around an efficient detection, GSCs are well described in adult brain tumors but remain poorly investigated in pediatric cases, mostly due to their rarity. An improved knowledge about GSC roles in pediatric tumors would provide a key leverage towards the elimination of this sub-population, based on targeted treatments. The aim of this review is to sum up the state of art about GSCs in pHGG. Abstract In children, high-grade gliomas (HGG) and diffuse midline gliomas (DMG) account for a high proportion of death due to cancer. Glioma stem cells (GSCs) are tumor cells in a specific state defined by a tumor-initiating capacity following serial transplantation, self-renewal, and an ability to recapitulate tumor heterogeneity. Their presence was demonstrated several decades ago in adult glioblastoma (GBM), and more recently in pediatric HGG and DMG. In adults, we and others have previously suggested that GSCs nest into the subventricular zone (SVZ), a neurogenic niche, where, among others, they find shelter from therapy. Both bench and bedside evidence strongly indicate a role for the GSCs and the SVZ in GBM progression, fostering the development of innovative targeting treatments. Such new therapeutic approaches are of particular interest in infants, in whom standard therapies are often limited due to the risk of late effects. The aim of this review is to describe current knowledge about GSCs in pediatric HGG and DMG, i.e., their characterization, the models that apply to their development and maintenance, the specific signaling pathways that may underlie their activity, and their specific interactions with neurogenic niches. Finally, we will discuss the clinical relevance of these observations and the therapeutic advantages of targeting the SVZ and/or the GSCs in infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc-Antoine Da-Veiga
- Laboratory of Nervous System Disorders and Therapy, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (M.-A.D.-V.); (B.R.); (A.L.); (V.N.)
| | - Bernard Rogister
- Laboratory of Nervous System Disorders and Therapy, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (M.-A.D.-V.); (B.R.); (A.L.); (V.N.)
- Department of Neurology, CHU of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Arnaud Lombard
- Laboratory of Nervous System Disorders and Therapy, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (M.-A.D.-V.); (B.R.); (A.L.); (V.N.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHU of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Virginie Neirinckx
- Laboratory of Nervous System Disorders and Therapy, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (M.-A.D.-V.); (B.R.); (A.L.); (V.N.)
| | - Caroline Piette
- Laboratory of Nervous System Disorders and Therapy, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (M.-A.D.-V.); (B.R.); (A.L.); (V.N.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, CHU Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
- Correspondence:
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14
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Abstract
Chromatin dysfunction has been implicated in a growing number of cancers especially in children and young adults. In addition to chromatin modifying and remodeling enzymes, mutations in histone genes are linked to human cancers. Since the first reports of hotspot missense mutations affecting key residues at histone H3 tail, studies have revealed how these so-called "oncohistones" dominantly (H3K27M and H3K36M) or locally (H3.3G34R/W) inhibit corresponding histone methyltransferases and misregulate epigenome and transcriptome to promote tumorigenesis. More recently, widespread mutations in all four core histones are identified in diverse cancer types. Furthermore, an "oncohistone-like" protein EZHIP has been implicated in driving childhood ependymomas through a mechanism highly reminiscent of H3K27M mutation. We will review recent progresses on understanding the biochemical, molecular and biological mechanisms underlying the canonical and novel histone mutations. Importantly, these mechanistic insights have identified therapeutic opportunities for oncohistone-driven tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Sahu
- Department of Genetics and Development and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Chao Lu
- Department of Genetics and Development and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA,Corresponding author: Chao Lu:
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15
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Epigenetic mechanisms in paediatric brain tumours: regulators lose control. Biochem Soc Trans 2022; 50:167-185. [PMID: 35076654 DOI: 10.1042/bst20201227] [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: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms are essential to regulate gene expression during normal development. However, they are often disrupted in pathological conditions including tumours, where they contribute to their formation and maintenance through altered gene expression. In recent years, next generation genomic techniques has allowed a remarkable advancement of our knowledge of the genetic and molecular landscape of paediatric brain tumours and have highlighted epigenetic deregulation as a common hallmark in their pathogenesis. This review describes the main epigenetic dysregulations found in paediatric brain tumours, including at DNA methylation and histone modifications level, in the activity of chromatin-modifying enzymes and in the expression of non-coding RNAs. How these altered processes influence tumour biology and how they can be leveraged to dissect the molecular heterogeneity of these tumours and contribute to their classification is also addressed. Finally, the availability and value of preclinical models as well as the current clinical trials exploring targeting key epigenetic mediators in paediatric brain tumours are discussed.
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16
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Hayden E, Holliday H, Lehmann R, Khan A, Tsoli M, Rayner BS, Ziegler DS. Therapeutic Targets in Diffuse Midline Gliomas-An Emerging Landscape. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246251. [PMID: 34944870 PMCID: PMC8699135 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) remain one of the most devastating childhood brain tumour types, for which there is currently no known cure. In this review we provide a summary of the existing knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of this disease, highlighting current analyses and novel treatment propositions. Together, the accumulation of these data will aid in the understanding and development of more effective therapeutic options for the treatment of DMGs. Abstract Diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) are invariably fatal pediatric brain tumours that are inherently resistant to conventional therapy. In recent years our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of DMG tumorigenicity has resulted in the identification of novel targets and the development of a range of potential therapies, with multiple agents now being progressed to clinical translation to test their therapeutic efficacy. Here, we provide an overview of the current therapies aimed at epigenetic and mutational drivers, cellular pathway aberrations and tumor microenvironment mechanisms in DMGs in order to aid therapy development and facilitate a holistic approach to patient treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisha Hayden
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
| | - Holly Holliday
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lehmann
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
| | - Aaminah Khan
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
| | - Maria Tsoli
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
| | - Benjamin S. Rayner
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
| | - David S. Ziegler
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2052, Australia; (E.H.); (H.H.); (R.L.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (B.S.R.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick 2031, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-9382-1730; Fax: +61-2-9382-1789
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17
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Raby L, Völkel P, Hasanpour S, Cicero J, Toillon RA, Adriaenssens E, Van Seuningen I, Le Bourhis X, Angrand PO. Loss of Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 Function Alters Digestive Organ Homeostasis and Neuronal Differentiation in Zebrafish. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113142. [PMID: 34831364 PMCID: PMC8620594 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) mediates histone H3K27me3 methylation and the stable transcriptional repression of a number of gene expression programs involved in the control of cellular identity during development and differentiation. Here, we report on the generation and on the characterization of a zebrafish line harboring a null allele of eed, a gene coding for an essential component of the PRC2. Homozygous eed-deficient mutants present a normal body plan development but display strong defects at the level of the digestive organs, such as reduced size of the pancreas, hepatic steatosis, and a loss of the intestinal structures, to die finally at around 10-12 days post fertilization. In addition, we found that PRC2 loss of function impairs neuronal differentiation in very specific and discrete areas of the brain and increases larval activity in locomotor assays. Our work highlights that zebrafish is a suited model to study human pathologies associated with PRC2 loss of function and H3K27me3 decrease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludivine Raby
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR 9020-U 1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France; (L.R.); (P.V.); (J.C.); (R.-A.T.); (E.A.); (I.V.S.); (X.L.B.)
| | - Pamela Völkel
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR 9020-U 1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France; (L.R.); (P.V.); (J.C.); (R.-A.T.); (E.A.); (I.V.S.); (X.L.B.)
| | - Shaghayegh Hasanpour
- Department of Fisheries and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj 31587-77871, Iran;
| | - Julien Cicero
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR 9020-U 1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France; (L.R.); (P.V.); (J.C.); (R.-A.T.); (E.A.); (I.V.S.); (X.L.B.)
- Univ. Artois, UR 2465, Laboratoire de la Barrière Hémato-Encéphalique (LBHE), F-62300 Lens, France
| | - Robert-Alain Toillon
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR 9020-U 1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France; (L.R.); (P.V.); (J.C.); (R.-A.T.); (E.A.); (I.V.S.); (X.L.B.)
| | - Eric Adriaenssens
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR 9020-U 1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France; (L.R.); (P.V.); (J.C.); (R.-A.T.); (E.A.); (I.V.S.); (X.L.B.)
| | - Isabelle Van Seuningen
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR 9020-U 1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France; (L.R.); (P.V.); (J.C.); (R.-A.T.); (E.A.); (I.V.S.); (X.L.B.)
| | - Xuefen Le Bourhis
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR 9020-U 1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France; (L.R.); (P.V.); (J.C.); (R.-A.T.); (E.A.); (I.V.S.); (X.L.B.)
| | - Pierre-Olivier Angrand
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR 9020-U 1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France; (L.R.); (P.V.); (J.C.); (R.-A.T.); (E.A.); (I.V.S.); (X.L.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-3-2033-6222
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18
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Leszczynska KB, Jayaprakash C, Kaminska B, Mieczkowski J. Emerging Advances in Combinatorial Treatments of Epigenetically Altered Pediatric High-Grade H3K27M Gliomas. Front Genet 2021; 12:742561. [PMID: 34646308 PMCID: PMC8503186 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.742561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Somatic mutations in histone encoding genes result in gross alterations in the epigenetic landscape. Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a pediatric high-grade glioma (pHGG) and one of the most challenging cancers to treat, with only 1% surviving for 5 years. Due to the location in the brainstem, DIPGs are difficult to resect and rapidly turn into a fatal disease. Over 80% of DIPGs confer mutations in genes coding for histone 3 variants (H3.3 or H3.1/H3.2), with lysine to methionine substitution at position 27 (H3K27M). This results in a global decrease in H3K27 trimethylation, increased H3K27 acetylation, and widespread oncogenic changes in gene expression. Epigenetic modifying drugs emerge as promising candidates to treat DIPG, with histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors taking the lead in preclinical and clinical studies. However, some data show the evolving resistance of DIPGs to the most studied HDAC inhibitor panobinostat and highlight the need to further investigate its mechanism of action. A new forceful line of research explores the simultaneous use of multiple inhibitors that could target epigenetically induced changes in DIPG chromatin and enhance the anticancer response of single agents. In this review, we summarize the therapeutic approaches against H3K27M-expressing pHGGs focused on targeting epigenetic dysregulation and highlight promising combinatorial drug treatments. We assessed the effectiveness of the epigenetic drugs that are already in clinical trials in pHGGs. The constantly expanding understanding of the epigenetic vulnerabilities of H3K27M-expressing pHGGs provides new tumor-specific targets, opens new possibilities of therapy, and gives hope to find a cure for this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna B Leszczynska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Chinchu Jayaprakash
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bozena Kaminska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Mieczkowski
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland.,3P-Medicine Laboratory, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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19
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Qiu B, Kline C, Mueller S. Radiation in Combination With Targeted Agents and Immunotherapies for Pediatric Central Nervous System Tumors - Progress, Opportunities, and Challenges. Front Oncol 2021; 11:674596. [PMID: 34277419 PMCID: PMC8278144 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.674596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric brain tumors are the most common solid tumors in children and represent a heterogenous group of diagnoses. While some are treatable with current standard of care, relapsed/refractory disease is common and some high-risk diagnoses remain incurable. A growing number of therapy options are under development for treatment of CNS tumors, including targeted therapies that disrupt key tumor promoting processes and immunotherapies that promote anti-tumor immune function. While these therapies hold promise, it is likely that single agent treatments will not be sufficient for most high-risk patients and combination strategies will be necessary. Given the central role for radiotherapy for many pediatric CNS tumors, we review current strategies that combine radiation with targeted therapies or immunotherapies. To promote the ongoing development of rational combination treatments, we highlight 1) mechanistic connections between molecular drivers of tumorigenesis and radiation response, 2) ways in which molecular alterations in tumor cells shape the immune microenvironment, and 3) how radiotherapy affects the host immune system. In addition to discussing strategies to maximize efficacy, we review principles that inform safety of combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Qiu
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Cassie Kline
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sabine Mueller
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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20
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Khater AR, Abou-Antoun T. Mesenchymal Epithelial Transition Factor Signaling in Pediatric Nervous System Tumors: Implications for Malignancy and Cancer Stem Cell Enrichment. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:654103. [PMID: 34055785 PMCID: PMC8155369 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.654103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant nervous system cancers in children are the most devastating and worrisome diseases, specifically due to their aggressive nature and, in some cases, inoperable location in critical regions of the brain and spinal cord, and the impermeable blood-brain barrier that hinders delivery of pharmaco-therapeutic compounds into the tumor site. Moreover, the delicate developmental processes of the nervous system throughout the childhood years adds another limitation to the therapeutic modalities and doses used to treat these malignant cancers. Therefore, pediatric oncologists are charged with the daunting responsibility of attempting to deliver effective cures to these children, yet with limited doses of the currently available therapeutic options in order to mitigate the imminent neurotoxicity of radio- and chemotherapy on the developing nervous system. Various studies reported that c-Met/HGF signaling is affiliated with increased malignancy and stem cell enrichment in various cancers such as high-grade gliomas, high-risk medulloblastomas, and MYCN-amplified, high-risk neuroblastomas. Therapeutic interventions that are utilized to target c-Met signaling in these malignant nervous system cancers have shown benefits in basic translational studies and preclinical trials, but failed to yield significant clinical benefits in patients. While numerous pre-clinical data reported promising results with the use of combinatorial therapy that targets c-Met with other tumorigenic pathways, therapeutic resistance remains a problem, and long-term cures are rare. The possible mechanisms, including the overexpression and activation of compensatory tumorigenic mechanisms within the tumors or ineffective drug delivery methods that may contribute to therapeutic resistance observed in clinical trials are elaborated in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Rose Khater
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Tamara Abou-Antoun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
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21
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Haag D, Mack N, Benites Goncalves da Silva P, Statz B, Clark J, Tanabe K, Sharma T, Jäger N, Jones DTW, Kawauchi D, Wernig M, Pfister SM. H3.3-K27M drives neural stem cell-specific gliomagenesis in a human iPSC-derived model. Cancer Cell 2021; 39:407-422.e13. [PMID: 33545065 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an aggressive childhood tumor of the brainstem with currently no curative treatment available. The vast majority of DIPGs carry a histone H3 mutation leading to a lysine 27-to-methionine exchange (H3K27M). We engineered human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to carry an inducible H3.3-K27M allele in the endogenous locus and studied the effects of the mutation in different disease-relevant neural cell types. H3.3-K27M upregulated bivalent promoter-associated developmental genes, producing diverse outcomes in different cell types. While being fatal for iPSCs, H3.3-K27M increased proliferation in neural stem cells (NSCs) and to a lesser extent in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs). Only NSCs gave rise to tumors upon induction of H3.3-K27M and TP53 inactivation in an orthotopic xenograft model recapitulating human DIPGs. In NSCs, H3.3-K27M leads to maintained expression of stemness and proliferative genes and a premature activation of OPC programs that together may cause tumor initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Haag
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology (B062), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Norman Mack
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology (B062), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Patricia Benites Goncalves da Silva
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology (B062), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Britta Statz
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology (B062), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jessica Clark
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology (B062), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Koji Tanabe
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Tanvi Sharma
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology (B062), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Natalie Jäger
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology (B062), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - David T W Jones
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Pediatric Glioma Research Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daisuke Kawauchi
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology (B062), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Biochemistry and Cellular Biology, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), National Institute of Neuroscience, Tokyo 187-0031, Japan
| | - Marius Wernig
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Stefan M Pfister
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Neurooncology (B062), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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22
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Chen Z, Peng P, Zhang X, Mania-Farnell B, Xi G, Wan F. Advanced Pediatric Diffuse Pontine Glioma Murine Models Pave the Way towards Precision Medicine. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051114. [PMID: 33807733 PMCID: PMC7961799 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs) account for ~15% of pediatric brain tumors, which invariably present with poor survival regardless of treatment mode. Several seminal studies have revealed that 80% of DIPGs harbor H3K27M mutation coded by HIST1H3B, HIST1H3C and H3F3A genes. The H3K27M mutation has broad effects on gene expression and is considered a tumor driver. Determination of the effects of H3K27M on posttranslational histone modifications and gene regulations in DIPG is critical for identifying effective therapeutic targets. Advanced animal models play critical roles in translating these cutting-edge findings into clinical trial development. Here, we review current molecular research progress associated with DIPG. We also summarize DIPG animal models, highlighting novel genomic engineered mouse models (GEMMs) and innovative humanized DIPG mouse models. These models will pave the way towards personalized precision medicine for the treatment of DIPGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zirong Chen
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (P.P.); (X.Z.)
| | - Peng Peng
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (P.P.); (X.Z.)
| | - Xiaolin Zhang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (P.P.); (X.Z.)
| | - Barbara Mania-Farnell
- Department of Biological Science, Purdue University Northwest, Hammond, IN 46323, USA;
| | - Guifa Xi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Correspondence: (G.X.); (F.W.); Tel.: +1-(312)5034296 (G.X.); +86-(027)-8366-5201 (F.W.)
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (P.P.); (X.Z.)
- Correspondence: (G.X.); (F.W.); Tel.: +1-(312)5034296 (G.X.); +86-(027)-8366-5201 (F.W.)
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23
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DeWire M, Erker C, Hummel TR, Chow LML, de Blank P, Salloum R, Pillay-Smiley N, Hoffman L, Gilger E, Gallagher M, Driver L, Meister D, Ward H, Drissi R, Kumar SS, Sengupta S, Kikta B, Meriwether W, Jelinek S, Asher A, Jones B, Leach J, Miles L, Fuller C, Fouladi M. Overcoming barriers to establishing autopsy procurement programs in pediatric patients with central nervous system tumors: a call to develop regional centers. J Neurooncol 2021; 152:107-114. [PMID: 33502679 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-020-03679-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While autopsy-repository programs with a variety of pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumor types are a critical resource for preclinical neuro-oncology research, few exist and there is no published guidance on how to develop one. The goal of this prospective Pediatric Brain Tumor Repository (PBTR) study was to develop such a program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) and then publish the quantitative and experiential data as a guide to support the development of similar programs. METHODS Protocols and infrastructure were established-to educate oncologists and families, establish eligibility, obtain consent, address pre- and post-autopsy logistics (e.g., patient and tissue transportation), process and authenticate tissue samples, and collect and analyze data. RESULTS Of the 129 pediatric CNS tumor patients at CCHMC who died between 2013 and 2018, 109 were eligible for our study. Of these, 74% (81 of 109) were approached for PBTR donation, and 68% (55 of 81) consented. In the final year of the study, approach and consent rates were 93% and 85%, respectively. Median time from death to autopsy (postmortem interval, PMI) was 10 h (range, 1.5-30). In the outpatient setting, PMI increased with distance (from the hospice/home where the patient died to CCHMC). In all patients, PMI appeared to be lower, when consent was obtained more than 24 h before death. CONCLUSIONS Procurement of autopsy specimens need not be a barrier in neuro-oncology research. Regional centers, strict timing-of-consent, patient education, and dedicated staff are all needed to minimize PMI and, thereby, increase the value of the procured tissue for an array of basic and translational research applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariko DeWire
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA.
| | - Craig Erker
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health Centre and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Trent R Hummel
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Lionel M L Chow
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Dayton Children's Hospital, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Peter de Blank
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Ralph Salloum
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Natasha Pillay-Smiley
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Lindsey Hoffman
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Elizabeth Gilger
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Maureen Gallagher
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Lori Driver
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Dinah Meister
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Heather Ward
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Rachid Drissi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Disorders, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH and The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Shiva Senthil Kumar
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Disorders, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Satarupa Sengupta
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA.,Division of Research, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Bridget Kikta
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Wanda Meriwether
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Susan Jelinek
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Anthony Asher
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA
| | - Blaise Jones
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - James Leach
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Lili Miles
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nemours Children's Health System, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Christine Fuller
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Maryam Fouladi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, Brain Tumor Center, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3026, USA.,Hematology/Oncology &, BMT, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, ColumbusColumbus, OHOH, USA
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24
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Shapiro GI, O'Mara E, Laskin OL, Gao L, Baird JD, Spiegel RJ, Kaushik D, Weetall M, Colacino J, O'Keefe K, Branstrom A, Goodwin E, Infante J, Bedard PL, Kong R. Pharmacokinetics and Safety of PTC596, a Novel Tubulin-Binding Agent, in Subjects With Advanced Solid Tumors. Clin Pharmacol Drug Dev 2021; 10:940-949. [PMID: 33440067 DOI: 10.1002/cpdd.904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PTC596 is a novel, orally bioavailable, small-molecule tubulin-binding agent that reduces B-cell-specific Moloney murine leukemia virus insertion site 1 activity and is being developed for the treatment of solid tumors. A phase 1, open-label, multiple-ascending-dose study was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and safety of the drug in subjects with advanced solid tumors. PTC596 was administered orally biweekly based on body weight. Dose escalation followed a modified 3 + 3 scheme using doses of 0.65, 1.3, 2.6, 5.2, 7.0, and 10.4 mg/kg. Following oral administration, PTC596 was rapidly absorbed, and between 0.65 and 7.0 mg/kg reached a maximum plasma concentration 2 to 4 hours after dosing. Area under the plasma concentration-time curve increased proportionally with body weight-adjusted doses. Maximum plasma concentration increased with dose, although the increase was less than dose proportional at dose levels >2.6 mg/kg. No accumulation occurred after multiple administrations up to 7.0 mg/kg. PTC596 had a terminal half-life ranging 12 to 15 hours at all doses except for the highest dose of 10.4 mg/kg, where the half-life was approximately 20 hours. Overall, PTC596 was well tolerated. The most frequently reported PTC596-related treatment-emergent adverse events were mild to moderate gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea (54.8%), nausea (45.2%), vomiting (35.5%), and fatigue (35.5%). Only 1 patient treated with 10.4 mg/kg experienced dose-limiting toxicity of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, both of which were reversible. Stable disease as best overall response was observed among 7 patients, with 2 patients receiving the study drug up to 16 weeks. These results support the further development of PTC596 for the treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey I Shapiro
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Department of Medical Oncology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Edward O'Mara
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, USA
| | - Oscar L Laskin
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, USA
| | - Lan Gao
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, USA
| | - John D Baird
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Diksha Kaushik
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, USA
| | - Marla Weetall
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Kylie O'Keefe
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, USA
| | | | | | - Jeffrey Infante
- Sarah Cannon Research Institute and Tennessee Oncology PLLC, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Philippe L Bedard
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ronald Kong
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, USA
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25
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Balakrishnan I, Danis E, Pierce A, Madhavan K, Wang D, Dahl N, Sanford B, Birks DK, Davidson N, Metselaar DS, Meel MH, Lemma R, Donson A, Vijmasi T, Katagi H, Sola I, Fosmire S, Alimova I, Steiner J, Gilani A, Hulleman E, Serkova NJ, Hashizume R, Hawkins C, Carcaboso AM, Gupta N, Monje M, Jabado N, Jones K, Foreman N, Green A, Vibhakar R, Venkataraman S. Senescence Induced by BMI1 Inhibition Is a Therapeutic Vulnerability in H3K27M-Mutant DIPG. Cell Rep 2020; 33:108286. [PMID: 33086074 PMCID: PMC7574900 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an incurable brain tumor of childhood characterized by histone mutations at lysine 27, which results in epigenomic dysregulation. There has been a failure to develop effective treatment for this tumor. Using a combined RNAi and chemical screen targeting epigenomic regulators, we identify the polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) component BMI1 as a critical factor for DIPG tumor maintenance in vivo. BMI1 chromatin occupancy is enriched at genes associated with differentiation and tumor suppressors in DIPG cells. Inhibition of BMI1 decreases cell self-renewal and attenuates tumor growth due to induction of senescence. Prolonged BMI1 inhibition induces a senescence-associated secretory phenotype, which promotes tumor recurrence. Clearance of senescent cells using BH3 protein mimetics co-operates with BMI1 inhibition to enhance tumor cell killing in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilango Balakrishnan
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Etienne Danis
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Angela Pierce
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Krishna Madhavan
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Nathan Dahl
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Bridget Sanford
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Diane K Birks
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Nate Davidson
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Dennis S Metselaar
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht and Departments of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michaël Hananja Meel
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht and Departments of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rakeb Lemma
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Andrew Donson
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Trinka Vijmasi
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Hiroaki Katagi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ismail Sola
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Susan Fosmire
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Irina Alimova
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jenna Steiner
- Departments of Radiology, Radiation Oncology, and Anesthesiology, Colorado Animal Imaging Shared Resource (AISR), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ahmed Gilani
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Esther Hulleman
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht and Departments of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Natalie J Serkova
- Departments of Radiology, Radiation Oncology, and Anesthesiology, Colorado Animal Imaging Shared Resource (AISR), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Rintaro Hashizume
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Cynthia Hawkins
- Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumor Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angel M Carcaboso
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Deu, Barcelona 08950, Spain
| | - Nalin Gupta
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Monje
- Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, Pediatrics, and Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Nada Jabado
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1B1, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, and The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Kenneth Jones
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Nicholas Foreman
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Adam Green
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Rajeev Vibhakar
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Sujatha Venkataraman
- Department of Pediatrics and Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; The Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
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Radio-Resistance and DNA Repair in Pediatric Diffuse Midline Gliomas. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102813. [PMID: 33007840 PMCID: PMC7600397 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant gliomas (MG) are among the most prevalent and lethal primary intrinsic brain tumors. Although radiotherapy (RT) is the most effective nonsurgical therapy, recurrence is universal. Dysregulated DNA damage response pathway (DDR) signaling, rampant genomic instability, and radio-resistance are among the hallmarks of MGs, with current therapies only offering palliation. A subgroup of pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG) is characterized by H3K27M mutation, which drives global loss of di- and trimethylation of histone H3K27. Here, we review the most recent literature and discuss the key studies dissecting the molecular biology of H3K27M-mutated gliomas in children. We speculate that the aberrant activation and/or deactivation of some of the key components of DDR may be synthetically lethal to H3K27M mutation and thus can open novel avenues for effective therapeutic interventions for patients suffering from this deadly disease.
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Diffuse midline glioma: review of epigenetics. J Neurooncol 2020; 150:27-34. [DOI: 10.1007/s11060-020-03553-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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28
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Senthil Kumar S, Sengupta S, Zhu X, Mishra DK, Phoenix T, Dyer L, Fuller C, Stevenson CB, DeWire M, Fouladi M, Drissi R. Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma Cells Are Vulnerable to Mitotic Abnormalities Associated with BMI-1 Modulation. Mol Cancer Res 2020; 18:1711-1723. [PMID: 32801164 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a poor-prognosis pediatric brain tumor with a median survival of less than 1 year. No effective therapy is currently available, and no therapeutic advances have been made in several decades. We have previously identified BMI-1 as a potential therapeutic target in DIPG and have shown that BMI-1 is highly expressed in DIPG tumors regardless of histone 3 subtype. In the present study, we show that the modulation of BMI-1 leads to DNA damage, M phase cell-cycle arrest, chromosome scattering, and cell death. Interestingly, EZH2 inhibition did not alter these effects. Furthermore, modulation of BMI-1 sensitizes DIPG patient-derived stem-like cells to ionizing radiation (IR). Treatment of DIPG stem-like cells with PTC596, a BMI-1 modulator, and IR impairs the kinetics of DNA damage response (DDR). Both DDR foci formation and resolution were delayed, resulting in further reduction in cell viability compared with either treatment alone. In vivo, treatment of mice bearing DIPG xenografts with PTC596 leads to decreased tumor volume and growth kinetics, increased intratumoral apoptosis, and sustained animal survival benefit. Gene expression analysis indicates that BMI-1 expression correlates positively with DIPG stemness and BMI-1 signature. At the single-cell level, the analysis reveals that BMI-1 pathway is upregulated in undifferentiated cells and positively correlates with stemness in DIPG tumors. IMPLICATIONS: Together, our findings indicate that BMI-1 modulation is associated with mitotic abnormalities, impaired DDR, and cell death, supporting the combination of BMI-1 modulation and radiation as a promising novel therapy for children with DIPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Senthil Kumar
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Satarupa Sengupta
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Xiaoting Zhu
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Cincinnati College of Engineering and Applied Science, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Division of Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Deepak Kumar Mishra
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Timothy Phoenix
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Lisa Dyer
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Christine Fuller
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Charles B Stevenson
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Mariko DeWire
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Maryam Fouladi
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Rachid Drissi
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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29
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Felker J, Broniscer A. Improving long-term survival in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 20:647-658. [PMID: 32543245 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2020.1775584] [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
INTRODUCTION Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an almost universally fatal pediatric brain cancer. There has been no improvement in event-free survival (EFS) or overall survival (OS) despite immense effort through a multitude of clinical trials to find a cure. Recently, there has been a surge in the knowledge of DIPG biology, including the discovery of a recurrent H3F3A mutation in over 80% of these tumors. AREAS COVERED The authors review the most recent approaches to diagnosis and treatment of DIPG including chemotherapy, biologics, surgical approaches, and immunotherapy. EXPERT OPINION The authors propose four main opportunities to improve long-term survival. First, patients should be enrolled in scientifically sound clinical trials that include molecularly profiling either via stereotactic biopsy or liquid biopsy. Second, clinical trials should include more innovative endpoints other than traditional EFS and OS such as MRI/PET imaging findings combined with surrogates of activity (e.g. serial liquid biopsies) to better ascertain biologically active treatments. Third, innovative clinical trial approaches are needed to help allow for the rapid development of combination therapies to be tested. Finally, effort should be concentrated on reversing the effects of the histone mutation, as this malfunctioning development program seems to be key to DIPG relentlessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Felker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine , Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alberto Broniscer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine , Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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30
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Sun Y, Bailey CP, Sadighi Z, Zaky W, Chandra J. Pediatric high-grade glioma: aberrant epigenetics and kinase signaling define emerging therapeutic opportunities. J Neurooncol 2020; 150:17-26. [PMID: 32504402 PMCID: PMC10141680 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-020-03546-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Supratentorial pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGGs) are aggressive malignancies that lack effective treatment options. Deep genomic sequencing by multiple groups has revealed that the primary alterations unique to pHGGs occur in epigenetic and kinase genes. These mutations, fusions, and deletions present a therapeutic opportunity by use of small molecules targeting epigenetic modifiers and kinases that contribute to pHGG growth. METHODS Using a targeted search of the pre-clinical literature and clinicaltrials.gov for kinase and epigenetic pathways in pHGG, we collectively describe how these mechanisms are being targeted in pre-clinical animal models and in current clinical trials, as well as propose unexplored therapeutic possibilities for future investigations. RESULTS Relevant pHGG kinases are targetable by several FDA-approved or clinical-stage kinase inhibitors, including altered BRAF/MET/NTRK/ALK and wild-type PI3K/EGFR/PDGFR/VEGF/AXL. Epigenetic proteins implicated in pHGG are also clinically targetable and include histone erasers, writers and readers such as HDACs, demethylases LSD1/JMJD3, methyltransferase EZH2, chromatin reader bromodomains, and chromatin remodeler subunit BMI-1. Crosstalk between these pathways can occur involving kinases such as EGFR and AMPK interacting with epigenetic modifiers such as HDACs or EZH2. Single agent trial results of kinase inhibitors or epigenetic targets alone are underwhelming and hampered by poor pharmacokinetics, adaptive resistance, and broad inclusion criteria. CONCLUSIONS The genetic and phenotypic diversity of pHGGs is now well characterized after large-scale sequencing studies on patient tissue. However, clinical treatment paradigms have not yet shifted in response to this information. Combination therapies targeting multiple kinases or epigenetic targets may hold more promise, especially if attempted in selected patient populations with hemispheric pHGG tumors and relevant targeted therapeutic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusha Sun
- Department of Pediatrics - Research, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Box 853, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Cavan P Bailey
- Department of Pediatrics - Research, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Box 853, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zsila Sadighi
- Department of Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wafik Zaky
- Department of Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Joya Chandra
- Department of Pediatrics - Research, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Box 853, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Box 853, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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31
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Park J, Lee W, Yun S, Kim SP, Kim KH, Kim JI, Kim SK, Wang KC, Lee JY. STAT3 is a key molecule in the oncogenic behavior of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:1989-1998. [PMID: 32724445 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is one of the most lethal childhood brain tumors. This tumor is unique because it is detected exclusively in the ventral pons of patients aged between 6 and 7 years, which suggests a developmental nature of its formation. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a critical molecule for the differentiation of neural stem cells into astrocytes during neurodevelopment. Additionally, STAT3 is associated with oncogenesis and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in various types of tumor. In recent years, several studies have demonstrated the oncogenic role of STAT3 in high-grade gliomas. However, the role of STAT3 in DIPG at the cellular level remains unknown. To assess the possible association between gliogenesis and DIPG, the expression levels of various molecules participating in the differentiation of neural stem cells were compared between normal brain control tissues and DIPG tissues using open public data. All of the screened genes exhibited significantly increased expression in DIPG tissues compared with normal tissues. As STAT3 expression was the most increased, the effect of STAT3 inhibition in a DIPG cell line was assessed via STAT3 short hairpin (sh)RNA transfection and treatment with AG490, a STAT3 inhibitor. Changes in viability, apoptosis, EMT and radiation therapy efficiency were also evaluated. Downregulation of STAT3 resulted in decreased cyclin D1 expression and cell viability, migration and invasion. Additionally, treatment with STAT3 shRNA or AG490 suppressed the EMT phenotype. Finally, when radiation was administered in combination with STAT3 inhibition, the therapeutic efficiency, assessed by cell viability and DNA damage repair, was increased. The present results suggest that STAT3 is a potential therapeutic target in DIPG, especially when combined with radiation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinju Park
- Neural Development and Anomaly Laboratory, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Woochan Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangil Yun
- Neural Development and Anomaly Laboratory, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Saet Pyoul Kim
- Neural Development and Anomaly Laboratory, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Hyun Kim
- Neural Development and Anomaly Laboratory, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Il Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Ki Kim
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Chang Wang
- Neural Development and Anomaly Laboratory, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Yeoun Lee
- Neural Development and Anomaly Laboratory, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
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32
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Fluoxetine as an antidepressant medicine improves the effects of ionizing radiation for the treatment of glioma. J Bioenerg Biomembr 2020; 52:165-174. [PMID: 32405794 DOI: 10.1007/s10863-020-09833-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Radiotherapy is a cancer treatment protocol which delivers high dose of ionizing radiation (IR) to tumor. Tumor resistance and side effects induced by IR still are the major challenges in radiotherapy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the synergistic killing effect of fluoxetine (FL) with IR on glioma cancer cell (U-87 MG), as well as radioprotective effect of FL against cellular toxicity induced by IR on non-malignant human fibroblast cell (HFFF2). Firstly, the inhibitory effects of FL on cell proliferations were evaluated in U-87 MG and HFFF2 cells. The clonogenic and MTT assays were used to evaluate the radiosensitivity and radioprotective effects of FL on cancer and non-malignant cells. The frequencies of apoptotic cells were evaluated by flow cytometry on both cancer and normal cells. Results showed that FL exhibited anti-cancer effect on glioma cells, while cellular toxicity was low in HFFF2 cells treated with FL. FL decreased the viable colonies and enhanced apoptotic cells when U-87 cells were treated with FL prior irradiation. For comparison, FL exhibited radioprotective effect through increasing cellular proliferation rate and reducing apoptosis in HFFF2 cells against IR. The results showed that FL enhanced the IR-induced glioma cancer cell death and apoptosis, whereas it exhibited a radioprotective effect on normal fibroblast cells suggesting that FL administration may improve glioma radiotherapy.
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33
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Dzobo K. Epigenomics-Guided Drug Development: Recent Advances in Solving the Cancer Treatment "jigsaw puzzle". OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2020; 23:70-85. [PMID: 30767728 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2018.0206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The human epigenome plays a key role in determining cellular identity and eventually function. Drug discovery undertakings have focused mainly on the role of genomics in carcinogenesis, with the focus turning to the epigenome recently. Drugs targeting DNA and histone modifications are under development with some such as 5-azacytidine, decitabine, vorinostat, and panobinostat already approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This expert review offers a critical analysis of the epigenomics-guided drug discovery and development and the opportunities and challenges for the next decade. Importantly, the coupling of epigenetic editing techniques, such as clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein-9 (Cas9) and APOBEC-coupled epigenetic sequencing (ACE-seq) with epigenetic drug screens, will allow the identification of small-molecule inhibitors or drugs able to reverse epigenetic changes responsible for many diseases. In addition, concrete and sustainable innovation in cancer treatment ought to integrate epigenome targeting drugs with classic therapies such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Dzobo
- 1 International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, South Africa.,2 Division of Medical Biochemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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34
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Rashed WM, Maher E, Adel M, Saber O, Zaghloul MS. Pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma: where do we stand? Cancer Metastasis Rev 2020; 38:759-770. [PMID: 31802357 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-019-09824-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) represents approximately 20% of all pediatric CNS tumors. However, disease outcomes are dismal with a median survival of less than 1 year and a 2-year overall survival rate of less than 10%. Despite extensive efforts to improve survival outcomes, progress towards clinical improvement has been largely stagnant throughout the last 4 decades. Focal radiotherapy remains the standard of care with no promising single-agent alternatives and no evidence for improvement with the addition of a long list of systemic therapies. A better understanding of the biology of DIPG, though not easy due to obstacles in obtaining pathological material to study, is promising for the development of specific individualized treatment for this fatal disease. Recent studies have found epigenetic mutations to be successful predictors and prognostic factors for developing future management policies. The aim of this review is to give a global overview about the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of DIPG. We further examine the controversial biopsy and autopsy issue that is unique to DIPG and assess the subsequent impact this issue has on the research efforts and clinical management of DIPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafaa M Rashed
- Research Department, Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo, 57357, Egypt.
| | - Eslam Maher
- Research Department, Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo, 57357, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Adel
- Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ossama Saber
- Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Saad Zaghloul
- Radiotherapy Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University & Children's Cancer Hospital, Cairo, 57357, Egypt.
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35
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Altered epigenetics is central to oncogenesis in many pediatric cancers. Aberrant epigenetic states are induced by mutations in histones or epigenetic regulatory genes, aberrant expression of genes regulating chromatin complexes, altered DNA methylation patterns, or dysregulated expression of noncoding RNAs. Developmental contexts of dysregulated epigenetic states are equally important for initiation and progression of many childhood cancers. As an improved understanding of disease-specific roles and molecular consequences of epigenetic alterations in oncogenesis is emerging, targeting these mechanisms of disease in childhood cancers is increasingly becoming important. RECENT FINDINGS In addition to disease-causing epigenetic events, DNA methylation patterns and specific oncohistone mutations are being utilized for the diagnosis of pediatric central nervous system (CNS) and solid tumors. These discoveries have improved the classification of poorly differentiated tumors and laid the foundation for future improved clinical management. On the therapeutic side, the first therapies targeting epigenetic alterations have recently entered clinical trials. Current clinical trials include pharmacological inhibition of histone and DNA modifiers in aggressive types of pediatric cancer. SUMMARY Targeting novel epigenetic vulnerabilities, either by themselves, or coupled with targeting altered transcriptional states, developmental cell states or immunomodulation will result in innovative approaches for treating deadly pediatric cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eshini Panditharatna
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA
| | - Mariella G Filbin
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA.,Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorder Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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36
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Flamier A, Abdouh M, Hamam R, Barabino A, Patel N, Gao A, Hanna R, Bernier G. Off-target effect of the BMI1 inhibitor PTC596 drives epithelial-mesenchymal transition in glioblastoma multiforme. NPJ Precis Oncol 2020; 4:1. [PMID: 31934644 PMCID: PMC6944693 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-019-0106-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an incurable primary brain tumor containing a sub-population of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Polycomb Repressive Complex (PRC) proteins BMI1 and EZH2 are enriched in CSCs, promoting clonogenic growth and resistance to genotoxic therapies. We report here that when used at appropriate concentrations, pharmaceutical inhibitors of BMI1 could efficiently prevent GBM colony growth and CSC self-renewal in vitro and significantly extend lifespan in terminally ill tumor-bearing mice. Notably, molecular analyses revealed that the commonly used PTC596 molecule targeted both BMI1 and EZH2, possibly providing beneficial therapeutic effects in some contexts. On the other hand, treatment with PTC596 resulted in instant reactivation of EZH2 target genes and induction of a molecular program of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), possibly explaining the modified phenotype of some PTC596-treated tumors. Treatment with a related but more specific BMI1 inhibitor resulted in tumor regression and maintenance of cell identity. We conclude that inhibition of BMI1 alone is efficient at inducing GBM regression, and that dual inhibition of BMI1 and EZH2 using PTC596 may be also beneficial but only in specific contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Flamier
- 1Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. l'Assomption, Montréal, H1T 2M4 Canada.,3Present Address: Whitehead Institute of Biomedical Research, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, 02142 MA USA
| | - Mohamed Abdouh
- 1Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. l'Assomption, Montréal, H1T 2M4 Canada
| | - Rimi Hamam
- 1Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. l'Assomption, Montréal, H1T 2M4 Canada
| | - Andrea Barabino
- 1Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. l'Assomption, Montréal, H1T 2M4 Canada
| | - Niraj Patel
- 1Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. l'Assomption, Montréal, H1T 2M4 Canada
| | - Andy Gao
- 1Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. l'Assomption, Montréal, H1T 2M4 Canada
| | - Roy Hanna
- 1Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. l'Assomption, Montréal, H1T 2M4 Canada
| | - Gilbert Bernier
- 1Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. l'Assomption, Montréal, H1T 2M4 Canada.,2Department of Neurosciences, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
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37
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Oncohistone Mutations in Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. Trends Cancer 2019; 5:799-808. [PMID: 31813457 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2019.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a lethal pediatric tumor with no currently available treatment options. More than 60-70% DIPG tumors harbor heterozygous mutations at genes encoding histone H3 proteins that replace lysine 27 with methionine (K27M). In this review, we discuss how K27M mutation reprograms the cancer epigenome to lead to tumorigenesis, and highlight potential drug targets and therapeutic agents for DIPG.
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Hu C, Zhang Q, Tang Q, Zhou H, Liu W, Huang J, Liu Y, Wang Q, Zhang J, Zhou M, Sheng F, Lai W, Tian J, Li G, Zhang R. CBX4 promotes the proliferation and metastasis via regulating BMI-1 in lung cancer. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 24:618-631. [PMID: 31724308 PMCID: PMC6933416 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Proliferation and metastasis are significantly malignant characteristics of human lung cancer, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. Chromobox 4 (CBX4), a member of the Polycomb group (PcG) family of epigenetic regulatory factors, enhances cellular proliferation and promotes cancer cell migration. However, the effect of CBX4 in the progression of lung cancer is not fully understood. We found that CBX4 is highly expressed in lung tumours compared with adjacent normal tissues. Overexpression of CBX4 significantly promotes cell proliferation and migration in human lung cancer cell lines. The knockdown of CBX4 obviously suppresses the cell growth and migration of human lung cancer cells in vitro. Also, the proliferation and metastasis in vivo are blocked by CBX4 knockdown. Furthermore, CBX4 knockdown effectively arrests cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase through suppressing the expression of CDK2 and Cyclin E and decreases the formation of filopodia through suppressing MMP2, MMP9 and CXCR4. Additionally, CBX4 promotes proliferation and metastasis via regulating the expression of BMI‐1 which is a significant regulator of proliferation and migration in lung cancer cells. Taken together, these data suggest that CBX4 is not only a novel prognostic marker but also may be a potential therapeutic target in lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changpeng Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huyue Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wuyi Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingbin Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yali Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fangfang Sheng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenjing Lai
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Tian
- Department of Teaching Support, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guobing Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Werbrouck C, Evangelista CCS, Lobón-Iglesias MJ, Barret E, Le Teuff G, Merlevede J, Brusini R, Kergrohen T, Mondini M, Bolle S, Varlet P, Beccaria K, Boddaert N, Puget S, Grill J, Debily MA, Castel D. TP53 Pathway Alterations Drive Radioresistance in Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Gliomas (DIPG). Clin Cancer Res 2019; 25:6788-6800. [PMID: 31481512 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-19-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG) are the most severe pediatric brain tumors. Although accepted as the standard therapeutic, radiotherapy is only efficient transiently and not even in every patient. The goal of the study was to identify the underlying molecular determinants of response to radiotherapy in DIPG. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We assessed in vitro response to ionizing radiations in 13 different DIPG cellular models derived from treatment-naïve stereotactic biopsies reflecting the genotype variability encountered in patients at diagnosis and correlated it to their principal molecular alterations. Clinical and radiologic response to radiotherapy of a large cohort of 73 DIPG was analyzed according to their genotype. Using a kinome-wide synthetic lethality RNAi screen, we further identified target genes that can sensitize DIPG cells to ionizing radiations. RESULTS We uncover TP53 mutation as the main driver of increased radioresistance and validated this finding in four isogenic pairs of TP53WT DIPG cells with or without TP53 knockdown. In an integrated clinical, radiological, and molecular study, we show that TP53MUT DIPG patients respond less to irradiation, relapse earlier after radiotherapy, and have a worse prognosis than their TP53WT counterparts. Finally, a kinome-wide synthetic lethality RNAi screen identifies CHK1 as a potential target, whose inhibition increases response to radiation specifically in TP53MUT cells. CONCLUSIONS Here, we demonstrate that TP53 mutations are driving DIPG radioresistance both in patients and corresponding cellular models. We suggest alternative treatment strategies to mitigate radioresistance with CHK1 inhibitors. These findings will allow to consequently refine radiotherapy schedules in DIPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coralie Werbrouck
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Cláudia C S Evangelista
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - María-Jesús Lobón-Iglesias
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Emilie Barret
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Gwénaël Le Teuff
- Biostatistical and Epidemiological Division, Institut Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, UVSQ, CESP, INSERM U1018, Villejuif, France
| | - Jane Merlevede
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Romain Brusini
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Thomas Kergrohen
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France.,Département de Cancérologie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Michele Mondini
- INSERM U1030, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, SIRIC SOCRATE, Villejuif, France
| | - Stéphanie Bolle
- Département de Radiothérapie, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Pascale Varlet
- Département de Neuropathologie, Hôpital Sainte-Anne, Université Paris V Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Kevin Beccaria
- Département de Neurochirurgie, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Université Paris V Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Boddaert
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, and IMAGINE Institute, INSERM UMR 1163 and INSERM U1000, Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Puget
- Département de Neurochirurgie, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Université Paris V Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jacques Grill
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France.,Département de Cancérologie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Marie-Anne Debily
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France.,Université d'Evry-Val d'Essonne, Boulevard François Mitterrand, Evry, France
| | - David Castel
- UMR8203, "Vectorologie & Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses," CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France. .,Département de Cancérologie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
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Meel MH, Kaspers GJL, Hulleman E. Preclinical therapeutic targets in diffuse midline glioma. Drug Resist Updat 2019; 44:15-25. [PMID: 31202081 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Diffuse midline gliomas (DMG) are rapidly fatal tumors of the midbrain in children, characterized by a diffuse growing pattern and high levels of intrinsic resistance to therapy. The location of these tumors, residing behind the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and the limited knowledge about the biology of these tumors, has hindered the development of effective treatment strategies. However, the introduction of diagnostic biopsies and the implementation of autopsy protocols in several large centers world-wide has allowed for a detailed characterization of these rare tumors. This has resulted in the identification of novel therapeutic targets, as well as major advances in understanding the biology of DMG in relation to therapy resistance. We here provide an overview of the cellular pathways and tumor-specific aberrations that have been targeted in preclinical DMG research, and discuss the advantages and limitations of these therapeutic strategies in relation to therapy resistance and BBB-penetration. Therewith, we aim to provide researchers with a framework for successful preclinical therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Hananja Meel
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gertjan J L Kaspers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Esther Hulleman
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Jeusset LMP, McManus KJ. Developing Targeted Therapies That Exploit Aberrant Histone Ubiquitination in Cancer. Cells 2019; 8:cells8020165. [PMID: 30781493 PMCID: PMC6406838 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone ubiquitination is a critical epigenetic mechanism regulating DNA-driven processes such as gene transcription and DNA damage repair. Importantly, the cellular machinery regulating histone ubiquitination is frequently altered in cancers. Moreover, aberrant histone ubiquitination can drive oncogenesis by altering the expression of tumor suppressors and oncogenes, misregulating cellular differentiation and promoting cancer cell proliferation. Thus, targeting aberrant histone ubiquitination may be a viable strategy to reprogram transcription in cancer cells, in order to halt cellular proliferation and induce cell death, which is the basis for the ongoing development of therapies targeting histone ubiquitination. In this review, we present the normal functions of histone H2A and H2B ubiquitination and describe the role aberrant histone ubiquitination has in oncogenesis. We also describe the key benefits and challenges associated with current histone ubiquitination targeting strategies. As these strategies are predicted to have off-target effects, we discuss additional efforts aimed at developing synthetic lethal strategies and epigenome editing tools, which may prove pivotal in achieving effective and selective therapies targeting histone ubiquitination, and ultimately improving the lives and outcomes of those living with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucile M-P Jeusset
- Department of Biochemistry & Medical Genetics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada.
- Research Institute in Oncology and Hematology, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada.
| | - Kirk J McManus
- Department of Biochemistry & Medical Genetics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada.
- Research Institute in Oncology and Hematology, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada.
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Cutting Edge Therapeutic Insights Derived from Molecular Biology of Pediatric High-Grade Glioma and Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). Bioengineering (Basel) 2018; 5:bioengineering5040088. [PMID: 30340362 PMCID: PMC6315414 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering5040088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric high-grade glioma (pHGG) and brainstem gliomas are some of the most challenging cancers to treat in children, with no effective therapies and 5-year survival at ~2% for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) patients. The standard of care for pHGG as a whole remains surgery and radiation combined with chemotherapy, while radiation alone is standard treatment for DIPG. Unfortunately, these therapies lack specificity for malignant glioma cells and have few to no reliable biomarkers of efficacy. Recent discoveries have revealed that epigenetic disruption by highly conserved mutations in DNA-packaging histone proteins in pHGG, especially DIPG, contribute to the aggressive nature of these cancers. In this review we pose unanswered questions and address unexplored mechanisms in pre-clinical models and clinical trial data from pHGG patients. Particular focus will be paid towards therapeutics targeting chromatin modifiers and other epigenetic vulnerabilities that can be exploited for pHGG therapy. Further delineation of rational therapeutic combinations has strong potential to drive development of safe and efficacious treatments for pHGG patients.
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Sengupta S, Sobo M, Lee K, Senthil Kumar S, White AR, Mender I, Fuller C, Chow LML, Fouladi M, Shay JW, Drissi R. Induced Telomere Damage to Treat Telomerase Expressing Therapy-Resistant Pediatric Brain Tumors. Mol Cancer Ther 2018; 17:1504-1514. [PMID: 29654065 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-17-0792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Brain tumors remain the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children and often are associated with long-term sequelae among survivors of current therapies. Hence, there is an urgent need to identify actionable targets and to develop more effective therapies. Telomerase and telomeres play important roles in cancer, representing attractive therapeutic targets to treat children with poor-prognosis brain tumors such as diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), high-grade glioma (HGG), and high-risk medulloblastoma. We have previously shown that DIPG, HGG, and medulloblastoma frequently express telomerase activity. Here, we show that the telomerase-dependent incorporation of 6-thio-2'deoxyguanosine (6-thio-dG), a telomerase substrate precursor analogue, into telomeres leads to telomere dysfunction-induced foci (TIF) along with extensive genomic DNA damage, cell growth inhibition, and cell death of primary stem-like cells derived from patients with DIPG, HGG, and medulloblastoma. Importantly, the effect of 6-thio-dG is persistent even after drug withdrawal. Treatment with 6-thio-dG elicits a sequential activation of ATR and ATM pathways and induces G2-M arrest. In vivo treatment of mice bearing medulloblastoma xenografts with 6-thio-dG delays tumor growth and increases in-tumor TIFs and apoptosis. Furthermore, 6-thio-dG crosses the blood-brain barrier and specifically targets tumor cells in an orthotopic mouse model of DIPG. Together, our findings suggest that 6-thio-dG is a promising novel approach to treat therapy-resistant telomerase-positive pediatric brain tumors. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(7); 1504-14. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satarupa Sengupta
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Matthew Sobo
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Kyungwoo Lee
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Shiva Senthil Kumar
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Angela R White
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Ilgen Mender
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Christine Fuller
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Lionel M L Chow
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Maryam Fouladi
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jerry W Shay
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Rachid Drissi
- Brain Tumor Center, Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
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