1
|
Liu D, Cao J, Ding X, Xu W, Yao X, Dai M, Tai Q, Shi M, Fei K, Xu Y, Su B. Disulfiram/copper complex improves the effectiveness of the WEE1 inhibitor Adavosertib in p53 deficient non-small cell lung cancer via ferroptosis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167455. [PMID: 39111630 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167455] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Cancer cells lacking functional p53 exhibit poor prognosis, necessitating effective treatment strategies. Inhibiting WEE1, the G2/M cell cycle checkpoint gatekeeper, represents a promising approach for treating p53-deficient NSCLC. Here, we investigate the connection between p53 and WEE1, as well as explore a synergistic therapeutic approach for managing p53-deficient NSCLC. Our study reveals that p53 deficiency upregulates both protein levels and kinase activity of WEE1 by inhibiting its SUMOylation process, thereby enhancing the susceptibility of p53-deficient NSCLC to WEE1 inhibitors. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the WEE1 inhibitor Adavosertib induces intracellular lipid peroxidation, specifically in p53-deficient NSCLC cells, suggesting potential synergy with pro-oxidant reagents. Repurposing Disulfiram (DSF), an alcoholism medication used in combination with copper (Cu), exhibits pro-oxidant properties against NSCLC. The levels of WEE1 protein in p53-deficient NSCLC cells treated with DSF-Cu exhibit a time-dependent increase. Subsequent evaluation of the combination therapy involving Adavosertib and DSF-Cu reveals reduced cell viability along with smaller tumor volumes and lighter tumor weights observed in both p53-deficient cells and xenograft models while correlating with solute carrier family 7-member 11 (SLC7A11)/glutathione-regulated ferroptosis pathway activation. In conclusion, our findings elucidate the molecular interplay between p53 and WEE1 and unveil a novel synergistic therapeutic strategy for treating p53-deficient NSCLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jingxue Cao
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xi Ding
- Department of Tuberculosis, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Wen Xu
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiaojuan Yao
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Mengyuan Dai
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Qidong Tai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Minxing Shi
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ke Fei
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yaping Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Bo Su
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
McNally L, Wu S, Hodges K, Oberley M, Wallbillich JJ, Jones NL, Herzog TJ, Thaker PH, Secord AA, Huang M. Molecular profiling of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia: Identifying therapeutic targets. Gynecol Oncol 2024; 184:111-116. [PMID: 38301309 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2024.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The treatment for high risk or recurrent gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is a highly toxic multi-agent chemotherapy. For patients with progressive or recurrent GTN, checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated anti-tumor activity; however, identification of novel therapies for GTN remain an unmet need. Therefore, we sought to characterize the molecular landscape of GTN to identify potential therapeutic targets. METHODS GTN samples were analyzed using a combination of molecular - next-generation sequencing (NGS) or whole exome sequencing (WES)- and protein- Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analyses. GTN samples encompassed complete moles, choriocarcinoma, epithelioid trophoblastic tumors (ETT), and placental site trophoblastic tumors (PSTT). RESULTS We analyzed 30 cases of GTN including 15 choriocarcinoma, 7 ETT, 5 PSTT, 1 invasive mole and 2 mixed histologies. The median age was 41.5. GTN samples were found to be PD-L1 positive (92.3%), tumor mutational burden (TMB) low (92.8%), and microsatellite stable (MSS) (100%). Forty-six percent of choriocarcinoma specimens contained a genomic alteration including TP53 (33%) and homologous recombination repair (HRR) (13%) genes. Alterations in RTK-RAS pathway signaling was present in 40% of ETT cases. CONCLUSIONS The high rate of PD-L1 positivity in this real-world database and reported in prior literature support continued clinical trial development evaluating immunotherapy for treatment of GTN. Other potential targeted treatments identified include Wee1, PARP and MEK inhibitors based on molecular alterations in TP53, HRR genes, and RTK-RAS pathways respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sharon Wu
- Caris Life Sciences, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | | | | | - Nathaniel L Jones
- Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | | | - Premal H Thaker
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Marilyn Huang
- University of Virginia, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhao SJ, Prior D, Heske CM, Vasquez JC. Therapeutic Targeting of DNA Repair Pathways in Pediatric Extracranial Solid Tumors: Current State and Implications for Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1648. [PMID: 38730598 PMCID: PMC11083679 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA damage is fundamental to tumorigenesis, and the inability to repair DNA damage is a hallmark of many human cancers. DNA is repaired via the DNA damage repair (DDR) apparatus, which includes five major pathways. DDR deficiencies in cancers give rise to potential therapeutic targets, as cancers harboring DDR deficiencies become increasingly dependent on alternative DDR pathways for survival. In this review, we summarize the DDR apparatus, and examine the current state of research efforts focused on identifying vulnerabilities in DDR pathways that can be therapeutically exploited in pediatric extracranial solid tumors. We assess the potential for synergistic combinations of different DDR inhibitors as well as combinations of DDR inhibitors with chemotherapy. Lastly, we discuss the immunomodulatory implications of targeting DDR pathways and the potential for using DDR inhibitors to enhance tumor immunogenicity, with the goal of improving the response to immune checkpoint blockade in pediatric solid tumors. We review the ongoing and future research into DDR in pediatric tumors and the subsequent pediatric clinical trials that will be critical to further elucidate the efficacy of the approaches targeting DDR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia J. Zhao
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (S.J.Z.); (D.P.)
| | - Daniel Prior
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (S.J.Z.); (D.P.)
| | - Christine M. Heske
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Juan C. Vasquez
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (S.J.Z.); (D.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chao Y, Chen Y, Zheng W, Demanelis K, Liu Y, Connelly JA, Wang H, Li S, Wang QJ. Synthetic lethal combination of CHK1 and WEE1 inhibition for treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer. Oncogene 2024; 43:789-803. [PMID: 38273024 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-02939-z] [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: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
WEE1 and CHEK1 (CHK1) kinases are critical regulators of the G2/M cell cycle checkpoint and DNA damage response pathways. The WEE1 inhibitor AZD1775 and the CHK1 inhibitor SRA737 are in clinical trials for various cancers, but have not been thoroughly examined in prostate cancer, particularly castration-resistant (CRPC) and neuroendocrine prostate cancers (NEPC). Our data demonstrated elevated WEE1 and CHK1 expressions in CRPC and NEPC cell lines and patient samples. AZD1775 resulted in rapid and potent cell killing with comparable IC50s across different prostate cancer cell lines, while SRA737 displayed time-dependent progressive cell killing with 10- to 20-fold differences in IC50s. Notably, their combination synergistically reduced the viability of all CRPC cell lines and tumor spheroids in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Importantly, in a transgenic mouse model of NEPC, both agents alone or in combination suppressed tumor growth, improved overall survival, and reduced the incidence of distant metastases, with SRA737 exhibiting remarkable single agent anticancer activity. Mechanistically, SRA737 synergized with AZD1775 by blocking AZD1775-induced feedback activation of CHK1 in prostate cancer cells, resulting in increased mitotic entry and accumulation of DNA damage. In summary, this preclinical study shows that CHK1 inhibitor SRA737 alone and its combination with AZD1775 offer potential effective treatments for CRPC and NEPC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yapeng Chao
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yuzhou Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Wenxiao Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kathryn Demanelis
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jaclyn A Connelly
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Song Li
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Qiming Jane Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mao X, Lee NK, Saad SE, Fong IL. Clinical translation for targeting DNA damage repair in non-small cell lung cancer: a review. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2024; 13:375-397. [PMID: 38496700 PMCID: PMC10938103 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr-23-742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Despite significant advancements in screening, diagnosis, and treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), it remains the primary cause of cancer-related deaths globally. DNA damage is caused by the exposure to exogenous and endogenous factors and the correct functioning of DNA damage repair (DDR) is essential to maintain of normal cell circulation. The presence of genomic instability, which results from defective DDR, is a critical characteristic of cancer. The changes promote the accumulation of mutations, which are implicated in cancer cells, but these may be exploited for anti-cancer therapies. NSCLC has a distinct genomic profile compared to other tumors, making precision medicine essential for targeting actionable gene mutations. Although various treatment options for NSCLC exist including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, drug resistance inevitably arises. The identification of deleterious DDR mutations in 49.6% of NSCLC patients has led to the development of novel target therapies that have the potential to improve patient outcomes. Synthetic lethal treatment using poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors is a breakthrough in biomarker-driven therapy. Additionally, promising new compounds targeting DDR, such as ATR, CHK1, CHK2, DNA-PK, and WEE1, had demonstrated great potential for tumor selectivity. In this review, we provide an overview of DDR pathways and discuss the clinical translation of DDR inhibitors in NSCLC, including their application as single agents or in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinru Mao
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Kota Samarahan, Malaysia
| | - Nung Kion Lee
- Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Kota Samarahan, Malaysia
| | | | - Isabel Lim Fong
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Kota Samarahan, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gatz SA, Harttrampf AC, Brard C, Bautista F, André N, Abbou S, Rubino J, Rondof W, Deloger M, Rübsam M, Marshall LV, Hübschmann D, Nebchi S, Aerts I, Thebaud E, De Carli E, Defachelles AS, Paoletti X, Godin R, Miah K, Mortimer PGS, Vassal G, Geoerger B. Phase I/II Study of the WEE1 Inhibitor Adavosertib (AZD1775) in Combination with Carboplatin in Children with Advanced Malignancies: Arm C of the AcSé-ESMART Trial. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:741-753. [PMID: 38051741 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-2959] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE AcSé-ESMART Arm C aimed to define the recommended dose and activity of the WEE1 inhibitor adavosertib in combination with carboplatin in children and young adults with molecularly enriched recurrent/refractory malignancies. PATIENTS AND METHODS Adavosertib was administered orally, twice every day on Days 1 to 3 and carboplatin intravenously on Day 1 of a 21-day cycle, starting at 100 mg/m2/dose and AUC 5, respectively. Patients were enriched for molecular alterations in cell cycle and/or homologous recombination (HR). RESULTS Twenty patients (median age: 14.0 years; range: 3.4-23.5) were included; 18 received 69 treatment cycles. Dose-limiting toxicities were prolonged grade 4 neutropenia and grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia requiring transfusions, leading to two de-escalations to adavosertib 75 mg/m2/dose and carboplatin AUC 4; no recommended phase II dose was defined. Main treatment-related toxicities were hematologic and gastrointestinal. Adavosertib exposure in children was equivalent to that in adults; both doses achieved the cell kill target. Overall response rate was 11% (95% confidence interval, 0.0-25.6) with partial responses in 2 patients with neuroblastoma. One patient with medulloblastoma experienced unconfirmed partial response and 5 patients had stable disease beyond four cycles. Seven of these eight patients with clinical benefit had alterations in HR, replication stress, and/or RAS pathway genes with or without TP53 alterations, whereas TP53 pathway alterations alone (8/10) or no relevant alterations (2/10) were present in the 10 patients without benefit. CONCLUSIONS Adavosertib-carboplatin combination exhibited significant hematologic toxicity. Activity signals and identified potential biomarkers suggest further studies with less hematotoxic DNA-damaging therapy in molecularly enriched pediatric cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne A Gatz
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham; Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Anne C Harttrampf
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Villejuif, France
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, INSERM U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Caroline Brard
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Biostatistics and Epidemiology Unit, INSERM U1018, CESP, Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, UVSQ, Villejuif, France
| | - Francisco Bautista
- Hospital Niño Jesús, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nicolas André
- Hôpital de la Timone, AP-HM, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Marseille, France
- UMR INSERM 1068, CNRS UMR 7258, Aix Marseille Université U105, Marseille, Cancer Research Center (CRCM), Marseille, France
| | - Samuel Abbou
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Villejuif, France
| | - Jonathan Rubino
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Clinical Research Direction, Villejuif, France
| | - Windy Rondof
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, INSERM U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Bioinformatics platform, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Marc Deloger
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Bioinformatics platform, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Marc Rübsam
- Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center
| | - Lynley V Marshall
- Royal Marsden Hospital & The Institute of Cancer Research, Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology Drug Development Unit, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Hübschmann
- Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center
- Pattern Recognition and Digital Medicine Group, Heidelberg Institute for Stem cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM); German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Souad Nebchi
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, INSERM U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Isabelle Aerts
- Institut Curie, SIREDO Oncology Center (Care, Innovation and research for children and AYA with cancer), PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Estelle Thebaud
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Nantes, France
| | - Emilie De Carli
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Angers, France
| | | | - Xavier Paoletti
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Biostatistics and Epidemiology Unit, INSERM U1018, CESP, Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, UVSQ, Villejuif, France
| | - Robert Godin
- AstraZeneca Oncology External R&D, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Kowser Miah
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative Pharmacology, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | | | - Gilles Vassal
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Clinical Research Direction, Villejuif, France
| | - Birgit Geoerger
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Villejuif, France
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, INSERM U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang Z, Li W, Li F, Xiao R. An update of predictive biomarkers related to WEE1 inhibition in cancer therapy. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:13. [PMID: 38231277 PMCID: PMC10794259 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05527-y] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE WEE1 is a crucial kinase involved in the regulation of G2/M checkpoint within the cell cycle. This article aims to comprehensively review the existing knowledge on the implication of WEE1 as a therapeutic target in tumor progression and drug resistance. Furthermore, we summarize the current predictive biomarkers employed to treat cancer with WEE1 inhibitors. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was conducted to analyze the association between WEE1 inhibition and cancer progression, including tumor advancement and drug resistance. Special attention was paid to the identification and utilization of predictive biomarkers related to therapeutic response to WEE1 inhibitors. RESULTS The review highlights the intricate involvement of WEE1 in tumor progression and drug resistance. It synthesizes the current knowledge on predictive biomarkers employed in WEE1 inhibitor treatments, offering insights into their prognostic significance. Notably, the article elucidates the potential for precision medicine by understanding these biomarkers in the context of tumor treatment outcomes. CONCLUSION WEE1 plays a pivotal role in tumor progression and is a promising therapeutic target. Distinguishing patients that would benefit from WEE1 inhibition will be a major direction of future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zizhuo Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenting Li
- Department of Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832000, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuxia Li
- Department of Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832000, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Rourou Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li Y, Wang X, Hou X, Wu M, Wang S, Ma X. WEE1 Inhibitors Mediate Antitumor Effects on Endometrial Cancer through Activation of Innate Immune Responses. J Cancer 2024; 15:545-559. [PMID: 38169513 PMCID: PMC10758029 DOI: 10.7150/jca.90236] [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: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Recurrence signifies the primary mortality factor in patients suffering from endometrial cancer, with few efficacious treatments currently available for recurrent cases. This research investigates the anti-tumoral capacities of WEE1 inhibitors within the context of endometrial cancer, aiming to establish a novel therapeutic avenue for high recurrence-risk patients. Materials and methods: We evaluated WEE1 expression in endometrial cancer patients utilizing immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded tissue sections. The cytotoxic potential of WEE1 inhibitors on endometrial cancer cells was assessed by CCK8 assay. Assays to gauge the influence of WEE1 inhibitors on cell proliferation and migration included clonal proliferation, wound healing, and transwell assays. We determined the impacts on apoptosis and cell cycle stages by flow cytometry. Employing qRT-PCR and western blotting, we investigated the mechanistic pathways underlying the anti-tumoral activity of WEE1 inhibitors. In vivo evaluations were executed to ascertain the inhibitory effect of WEE1 inhibitors on tumor growth in mice. Results: WEE1 exhibited high-level expression in endometrial cancer tissues, particularly pronounced in recurrent compared with non-recurrent patients. WEE1 inhibitors effectively eliminated endometrial cancer cells while inhibiting their proliferation and migration. Flow cytometric analyses revealed a significant promotion of apoptosis and an increase in G2/M phase cell proportion upon WEE1 inhibitor treatment. qRT-PCR and western blotting elucidated that WEE1 inhibitors activated the innate immune signaling pathway in endometrial cancer cells. Furthermore, in vivo assessments demonstrated substantial tumor growth suppression due to WEE1 inhibitors. Conclusions: WEE1 inhibitors initiated an innate immune response in endometrial cancer, exhibiting considerable anti-tumoral effects, which was promising for postoperative treatment of endometrial cancer, especially recurrent endometrial cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Xiangyi Ma
- ✉ Corresponding author: Xiangyi Ma, +86 27 83662407,
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Nguyen Vu TH, Kikuchi O, Ohashi S, Saito T, Ida T, Nakai Y, Cao Y, Yamamoto Y, Kondo Y, Mitani Y, Kataoka S, Kondo T, Katada C, Yamada A, Matsubara J, Muto M. Combination therapy with WEE1 inhibition and trifluridine/tipiracil against esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:4664-4676. [PMID: 37724648 PMCID: PMC10728021 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15966] [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: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advanced therapeutics, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains one of the deadliest cancers. Here, we propose a novel therapeutic strategy based on synthetic lethality combining trifluridine/tipiracil and MK1775 (WEE1 inhibitor) as a treatment for ESCC. This study demonstrates that trifluridine induces single-strand DNA damage in ESCC cells, as evidenced by phosphorylated replication protein 32. The DNA damage response includes cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) (Tyr15) phosphorylation as CDK1 inhibition and a decrease of the proportion of phospho-histone H3 (p-hH3)-positive cells, indicating cell cycle arrest at the G2 phase before mitosis entry. The WEE1 inhibitor remarkedly suppressed CDK1 phosphorylation (Try15) and reactivated CDK1, and also increased the proportion of p-hH3-positive cells, which indicates an increase of the number of cells into mitosis. Trifluridine combined with a WEE1 inhibitor increased trifluridine-mediated DNA damage, namely DNA double-strand breaks, as shown by increased γ-H2AX expression. Moreover, the combination treatment with trifluridine/tipiracil and a WEE1 inhibitor significantly suppressed tumor growth of ESCC-derived xenograft models. Hence, our novel combination treatment with trifluridine/tipiracil and a WEE1 inhibitor is considered a candidate treatment strategy for ESCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trang H. Nguyen Vu
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Endoscopy DepartmentCho Ray HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
| | - Osamu Kikuchi
- Department of Clinical Bio‐Resource CenterKyoto University HospitalKyotoJapan
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Cancer ImmunotherapyKyoto University Center for Cancer Immunotherapy and ImmunobiologyKyotoJapan
| | - Shinya Ohashi
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Preemptive Medicine and Lifestyle Disease Research CenterKyoto University HospitalKyotoJapan
| | - Tomoki Saito
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Tomomi Ida
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Yukie Nakai
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Yang Cao
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Yoshihiro Yamamoto
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Yuki Kondo
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Yosuke Mitani
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Shigeki Kataoka
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Tomohiro Kondo
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Chikatoshi Katada
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Atsushi Yamada
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Junichi Matsubara
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Manabu Muto
- Department of Therapeutic Oncology, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Department of Clinical Bio‐Resource CenterKyoto University HospitalKyotoJapan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang Q, Chao Y, Chen Y, Zheng W, Demanelis K, Liu Y, Connelly J, Wang H. Synthetic lethal combination of CHK1 and WEE1 inhibition for treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3564450. [PMID: 37987002 PMCID: PMC10659531 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3564450/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
WEE1 and CHEK1 (CHK1) kinases are critical regulators of the G2/M cell cycle checkpoint and DNA damage response pathways. The WEE1 inhibitor AZD1775 and the CHK1 inhibitor SRA737 are in clinical trials for various cancers, but have not been examined in prostate cancer, particularly castration-resistant (CRPC) and neuroendocrine prostate cancers (NEPC). Our data demonstrated elevated WEE1 and CHK1 expressions in CRPC/NEPC cell lines and patient samples. AZD1775 resulted in rapid and potent cell killing with comparable IC50s across different prostate cancer cell lines, while SRA737 displayed time-dependent progressive cell killing with 10- to 20-fold differences in IC50s. Notably, their combination synergistically reduced the viability of all CRPC cell lines and tumor spheroids in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Importantly, in a transgenic mouse model of NEPC, both agents alone or in combination suppressed tumor growth, improved overall survival, and reduced the incidence of distant metastases, with SRA737 exhibiting remarkable single agent anticancer activity. Mechanistically, SRA737 synergized with AZD1775 by blocking AZD1775-induced feedback activation of CHK1 in prostate cancer cells, resulting in increased mitotic entry and accumulation of DNA damage. In summary, this preclinical study shows that CHK1 inhibitor SRA737 alone and its combination with AZD1775 offer potential effective treatments for CRPC and NEPC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yu Liu
- University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute
| | | | - Hong Wang
- University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Williams A, Gutgesell L, de Wet L, Selman P, Dey A, Avineni M, Kapoor I, Mendez M, Brown R, Lamperis S, Blajszczak C, Bueter E, Kregel S, Vander Griend DJ, Szmulewitz R. SOX 2 expression in prostate cancer drives resistance to nuclear hormone receptor signaling inhibition through the WEE1/CDK1 signaling axis. Cancer Lett 2023; 565:216209. [PMID: 37169162 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The development of androgen receptor signaling inhibitor (ARSI) drug resistance in prostate cancer (PC) remains therapeutically challenging. Our group has described the role of sex determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2) overexpression in ARSI-resistant PC. Continuing this work, we report that NR3C1, the gene encoding glucocorticoid receptor (GR), is a novel SOX2 target in PC, positively regulating its expression. Similar to ARSI treatment, SOX2-positive PC cells are insensitive to GR signaling inhibition using a GR modulating therapy. To understand SOX2-mediated nuclear hormone receptor signaling inhibitor (NHRSI) insensitivity, we performed RNA-seq in SOX2-positive and -negative PC cells following NHRSI treatment. RNA-seq prioritized differentially regulated genes mediating the cell cycle, including G2 checkpoint WEE1 Kinase (WEE1) and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1). Additionally, WEE1 and CDK1 were differentially expressed in PC patient tumors dichotomized by high vs low SOX2 gene expression. Importantly, pharmacological targeting of WEE1 (WEE1i) in combination with an ARSI or GR modulator re-sensitizes SOX2-positive PC cells to nuclear hormone receptor signaling inhibition in vitro, and WEE1i combined with ARSI significantly slowed tumor growth in vivo. Collectively, our data suggest SOX2 predicts NHRSI resistance, and simultaneously indicates the addition of WEE1i to improve therapeutic efficacy of NHRSIs in SOX2-positive PC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Williams
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Lisa Gutgesell
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Larischa de Wet
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Phillip Selman
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Arunangsu Dey
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Mahati Avineni
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Isha Kapoor
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Megan Mendez
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Ryan Brown
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Sophia Lamperis
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University - Feinberg School of Medicine, 420 E Superior St, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Chuck Blajszczak
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Eric Bueter
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA; Committee on Cancer Biology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Steve Kregel
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University - Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, 2160 S 1st Ave, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA
| | - Donald J Vander Griend
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Russell Szmulewitz
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Toulany M. Targeting K-Ras-mediated DNA damage response in radiation oncology: Current status, challenges and future perspectives. Clin Transl Radiat Oncol 2022; 38:6-14. [PMID: 36313934 PMCID: PMC9596599 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctro.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 60% of cancer patients receive curative or palliative radiation. Despite the significant role of radiotherapy (RT) as a curative approach for many solid tumors, tumor recurrence occurs, partially because of intrinsic radioresistance. Accumulating evidence indicates that the success of RT is hampered by activation of the DNA damage response (DDR). The intensity of DDR signaling is affected by multiple parameters, e.g., loss-of-function mutations in tumor suppressor genes, gain-of-function mutations in protooncogenes as well as radiation-induced alterations in signal-transduction pathways. Therefore, the response to irradiation differs in tumors of different types, which makes the individualization of RT as a rational but challenging goal. One contributor to tumor cell radiation survival is signaling through the Ras pathway. Three RAS genes encode 4 Ras isoforms: K-Ras4A, K-Ras4B, H-Ras, and N-Ras. RAS family members are found to be mutated in approximately 19% of human cancers. Mutations in RAS lead to constitutive activation of the gene product and activation of multiple Ras-dependent signal-transduction cascades. Preclinical studies have shown that the expression of mutant KRAS affects DDR and increases cell survival after irradiation. Approximately 70% of RAS mutations occur in KRAS. Thus, applying targeted therapies directly against K-Ras as well as K-Ras upstream activators and downstream effectors might be a tumor-specific approach to overcome K-Ras-mediated RT resistance. In this review, the role of K-Ras in the activation of DDR signaling will be summarized. Recent progress in targeting DDR in KRAS-mutated tumors in combination with radiochemotherapy will be discussed.
Collapse
|
13
|
Li YF, Zhao XF, Tian Y, Xiao XY, Yan CY, Shen H. Case Report: Pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma complicating TP53 mutation treated successfully with Tislelizumab combined with Anlotinib—a case report. Front Genet 2022; 13:949989. [PMID: 35938033 PMCID: PMC9355298 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.949989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma (PSC) is a rare subtype of lung malignant tumor. Conventional chemotherapy has a suboptimal effectiveness. PSC has the characteristics of rapid disease progression and poor prognosis. We herein report a 56-year-old male patient with substantial smoking history was pathologically diagnosed as PSC, cT4N0M0 IIIA stage. Peripheral blood NGS showed TP53 mutation. The patient had poor tolerance to the first-line chemotherapy regimen “albumin paclitaxel + cisplatin,” but the severe anemia was significantly improved after 5 days of anti-angiogenic therapy with Anlotinib. At this time, the patient received anti-PD-1 immunotherapy with Tislelizumab. Half a month later, degree III liver injury occurred repeatedly. After excluding drug-induced liver injury, we found that HCV-RNA 3.10 × 105 IU/ml and suspended all anti-tumor therapy. After the start of anti-HCV treatment with Epclusa, the treatment of Tislelizumab combined with Anlotinib was restarted, and there was no liver injury after that. The patient received monthly maintenance therapy with Tislelizumab combined with Anlotinib to the present. The pulmonary lesions continued to decrease, and only one lung cavity is left. The patient has achieved clinical complete remission (CCR) with PSF over 20 months. Our findings suggest that Tislelizumab combined with Anlotinib may be a preferred strategy in PSC complicating TP53 mutation. Core tip: Immune-check point inhibitors (ICIs) have been reported for the treatment of PSC in a small number of case reports and retrospective analysis, but there are few reports of ICIs combined with anti-angiogenic drugs. This patient was diagnosed as locally advanced PSC complicated with TP53 mutation and hepatitis C. After 14 cycles of Tislelizumab combined with Anlotinib treatment (during the course of treatment, several courses were not treated on time for economic reasons, rather than adverse reactions), the patient has achieved CCR. III degree liver injury occurred during the treatment, and the liver function returned to normal range after anti-hepatitis C treatment, which did not affect the continued treatment of this regimen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Hua Shen
- *Correspondence: Hua Shen, ; Cai-Yun Yan,
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cook AL, Wyhs N, Sur S, Ptak B, Popoli M, Dobbyn L, Papadopoulos T, Bettegowda C, Papadopoulos N, Vogelstein B, Zhou S, Kinzler KW. An isogenic cell line panel for sequence-based screening of targeted anticancer drugs. iScience 2022; 25:104437. [PMID: 35692635 PMCID: PMC9184558 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe the creation of an isogenic cell line panel representing common cancer pathways, with features optimized for high-throughput screening. More than 1,800 cell lines from three normal human cell lines were generated using CRISPR technologies. Surprisingly, most of these lines did not result in complete gene inactivation despite integration of sgRNA at the desired genomic site. A subset of the lines harbored biallelic disruptions of the targeted tumor suppressor gene, yielding a final panel of 100 well-characterized lines covering 19 frequently lost cancer pathways. This panel included genetic markers optimized for sequence-based ratiometric assays for drug-based screening assays. To illustrate the potential utility of this panel, we developed a high-throughput screen that identified Wee1 inhibitor MK-1775 as a selective growth inhibitor of cells with inactivation of TP53. These cell lines and screening approach should prove useful for researchers studying a variety of cellular and biochemical phenomena. Creation of an isogenic cell line panel representing the loss of 19 cancer pathways HTS confirmed MK-1775 as a selective inhibitor of cells with loss of TP53 These cell lines are useful for studying a variety of cellular biochemical phenomena
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley L. Cook
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Nicolas Wyhs
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Surojit Sur
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Blair Ptak
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Maria Popoli
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Laura Dobbyn
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Tasos Papadopoulos
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Chetan Bettegowda
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Nickolas Papadopoulos
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Bert Vogelstein
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Shibin Zhou
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Corresponding author
| | - Kenneth W. Kinzler
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Corresponding author
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Martin JC, Sims JR, Gupta A, Bakin AV, Ohm JE. WEE1 inhibition augments CDC7 (DDK) inhibitor-induced cell death in Ewing sarcoma by forcing premature mitotic entry and mitotic catastrophe. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:471-482. [PMID: 36338546 PMCID: PMC9635308 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-22-0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive childhood cancer for which treatment options remain limited and toxic. There is an urgent need for the identification of novel therapeutic strategies. Our group has recently shown that Ewing cells rely on the S-phase kinase CDC7 (DDK) to maintain replication rates and cell viability and that DDK inhibition causes an increase in the phosphorylation of CDK1 and a significant delay in mitotic entry. Here, we expand on our previous findings and show that DDK inhibitor-induced mitotic entry delay is dependent upon WEE1 kinase. Specifically, WEE1 phosphorylates CDK1 and prevents mitotic entry upon DDK inhibition due to the presence of under-replicated DNA, potentially limiting the cytotoxic effects of DDK inhibition. To overcome this, we combined the inhibition of DDK with the inhibition of WEE1 and found that this results in elevated levels of premature mitotic entry, mitotic catastrophe, and apoptosis. Importantly, we have found that DDK and WEE1 inhibitors display a synergistic relationship with regards to reducing cell viability of Ewing sarcoma cells. Interestingly, the cytotoxic nature of this combination can be suppressed by the inhibition of CDK1 or microtubule polymerization, indicating that mitotic progression is required to elicit the cytotoxic effects. This is the first study to display the potential of utilizing the combined inhibition of DDK and WEE1 for the treatment of cancer. We believe this will offer a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of Ewing sarcoma as well as other tumor types that display sensitivity to DDK inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey C. Martin
- Department of Cancer Genetics and Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Jennie R. Sims
- Department of Cancer Genetics and Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Ajay Gupta
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Pediatrics, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, New York
| | - Andrei V. Bakin
- Department of Cancer Genetics and Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Joyce Ellen Ohm
- Department of Cancer Genetics and Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Miyake K, Takano N, Kazama H, Kikuchi H, Hiramoto M, Tsukahara K, Miyazawa K. Ricolinostat enhances adavosertib‑induced mitotic catastrophe in TP53‑mutated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells. Int J Oncol 2022; 60:54. [PMID: 35348191 PMCID: PMC8997343 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2022.5344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
TP53 mutation is one of the most frequent gene mutations in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and could be a potential therapeutic target. Recently, the WEE1 G2 checkpoint kinase (WEE1) inhibitor adavosertib (Adv) has attracted attention because of its selective cytotoxicity against TP53-mutated cells and has shown promising activity in early phase clinical trials. In the present study, it was demonstrated that combined treatment with Adv and a selective histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) inhibitor, ricolinostat (RCS), synergistically enhanced cell death induction in four out of five HNSCC cell lines with TP53 mutation (CAL27, SAS, HSC-3, and OSC-19), one HNSCC cell line with impaired TP53 function by HPV-infection (UPCI-SCC154), and TP53-knockout human lung cancer cell line (A549 TP53-KO), but not in TP53 wild-type A549 cells. Time-lapse imaging showed that RCS enhanced the Adv-induced mitotic catastrophe. Consistent with this, RCS treatment suppressed checkpoint kinase 1 (Chk1) (Ser345) phosphorylation and co-administration of RCS with Adv suppressed cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Tyr15) phosphorylation along with increased expression of γ-H2A.X, a marker of DNA double-strand breaks in CAL27 cells. These data showed that RCS enhanced Adv-induced premature mitotic entry and cell death induction in the mitotic phase. However, although HDAC6 knockdown enhanced Adv-induced cell death with γ-H2A.X elevation, HDAC6 knockdown did not repress Chk1 phosphorylation in CAL27 cells. Our data demonstrated that the co-administration of RCS with Adv in HNSCC cells resulted in the suppression of Chk1 activity, leading to synergistically enhanced apoptosis via mitotic catastrophe in a p53-dependent manner. This enhanced cell death appeared to be partially mediated by the inhibition of HDAC6 activity by RCS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keitaro Miyake
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tokyo Medical University Hospital, Shinjuku‑ku, Tokyo 160‑0023, Japan
| | - Naoharu Takano
- Department of Biochemistry, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku‑ku, Tokyo 160‑8402, Japan
| | - Hiromi Kazama
- Department of Biochemistry, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku‑ku, Tokyo 160‑8402, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kikuchi
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku‑ku, Tokyo 160‑8402, Japan
| | - Masaki Hiramoto
- Department of Biochemistry, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku‑ku, Tokyo 160‑8402, Japan
| | - Kiyoaki Tsukahara
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tokyo Medical University Hospital, Shinjuku‑ku, Tokyo 160‑0023, Japan
| | - Keisuke Miyazawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku‑ku, Tokyo 160‑8402, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Nakahata K, Simons BW, Pozzo E, Shuck R, Kurenbekova L, Prudowsky Z, Dholakia K, Coarfa C, Patel TD, Donehower LA, Yustein JT. K-Ras and p53 mouse model with molecular characteristics of human rhabdomyosarcoma and translational applications. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:274377. [PMID: 35174853 PMCID: PMC8844455 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children, with overall long-term survival rates of ∼65-70%. Thus, additional molecular insights and representative models are critical for identifying and evaluating new treatment modalities. Using MyoD-Cre-mediated introduction of mutant K-RasG12D and perturbations in p53, we developed a novel genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM) for RMS. The anatomic sites of primary RMS development recapitulated human disease, including tumors in the head, neck, extremities and abdomen. We confirmed RMS histology and diagnosis through Hematoxylin and Eosin staining, and positive immunohistochemical staining for desmin, myogenin, and phosphotungstic acid-Hematoxylin. Cell lines from GEMM tumors were established with the ability to engraft in immunocompetent mice with comparable histological and staining features as the primary tumors. Tail vein injection of cell lines had high metastatic potential to the lungs. Transcriptomic analyses of p53R172H/K-RasG12D GEMM-derived tumors showed evidence of high molecular homology with human RMS. Finally, pre-clinical use of these murine RMS lines showed similar therapeutic responsiveness to chemotherapy and targeted therapies as human RMS cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kengo Nakahata
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Brian W Simons
- Center for Comparative Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA, USA
| | - Enrico Pozzo
- Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Stem Cell Research Institute, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology Unit, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Ryan Shuck
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lyazat Kurenbekova
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zachary Prudowsky
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kshiti Dholakia
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Dan L. Duncan Cancer Comprehensive Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Tajhal D Patel
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lawrence A Donehower
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Dan L. Duncan Cancer Comprehensive Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jason T Yustein
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Dan L. Duncan Cancer Comprehensive Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Esposito F, Giuffrida R, Raciti G, Puglisi C, Forte S. Wee1 Kinase: A Potential Target to Overcome Tumor Resistance to Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910689. [PMID: 34639030 PMCID: PMC8508993 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
During the cell cycle, DNA suffers several lesions that need to be repaired prior to entry into mitosis to preserve genome integrity in daughter cells. Toward this aim, cells have developed complex enzymatic machinery, the so-called DNA damage response (DDR), which is able to repair DNA, temporarily stopping the cell cycle to provide more time to repair, or if the damage is too severe, inducing apoptosis. This DDR mechanism is considered the main source of resistance to DNA-damaging therapeutic treatments in oncology. Recently, cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are a small subset of tumor cells, were identified as tumor-initiating cells. CSCs possess self-renewal potential and persistent tumorigenic capacity, allowing for tumor re-growth and relapse. Compared with cancer cells, CSCs are more resistant to therapeutic treatments. Wee1 is the principal gatekeeper for both G2/M and S-phase checkpoints, where it plays a key role in cell cycle regulation and DNA damage repair. From this perspective, Wee1 inhibition might increase the effectiveness of DNA-damaging treatments, such as radiotherapy, forcing tumor cells and CSCs to enter into mitosis, even with damaged DNA, leading to mitotic catastrophe and subsequent cell death.
Collapse
|
19
|
Fallah Y, Demas DM, Jin L, He W, Shajahan-Haq AN. Targeting WEE1 Inhibits Growth of Breast Cancer Cells That Are Resistant to Endocrine Therapy and CDK4/6 Inhibitors. Front Oncol 2021; 11:681530. [PMID: 34277427 PMCID: PMC8281892 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.681530] [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: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the success of antiestrogens in extending overall survival of patients with estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast tumors, resistance to these therapies is prevalent. ER+ tumors that progress on antiestrogens are treated with antiestrogens and CDK4/6 inhibitors. However, 20% of these tumors never respond to CDK4/6 inhibitors due to intrinsic resistance. Here, we used endocrine sensitive ER+ MCF7 and T47D breast cancer cells to generate long-term estrogen deprived (LTED) endocrine resistant cells that are intrinsically resistant to CDK4/6 inhibitors. Since treatment with antiestrogens arrests cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, we hypothesized that a defective G1 checkpoint allows resistant cells to escape this arrest but increases their dependency on G2 checkpoint for DNA repair and growth, and hence, targeting the G2 checkpoint will induce cell death. Indeed, inhibition of WEE1, a crucial G2 checkpoint regulator, with AZD1775 (Adavosertib), significantly decreased cell proliferation and increased G2/M arrest, apoptosis and gamma-H2AX levels (a marker for DNA double stranded breaks) in resistant cells compared with sensitive cells. Thus, targeting WEE1 is a promising anti-cancer therapeutic strategy in standard therapy resistant ER+ breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yassi Fallah
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Diane M Demas
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Lu Jin
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Wei He
- Program in Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology, VT Biological Transport, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Ayesha N Shajahan-Haq
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Du R, Jiang F, Yin Y, Xu J, Li X, Hu L, Wang X. Knockdown of lncRNA X inactive specific transcript (XIST) radiosensitizes non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells through regulation of miR-16-5p/WEE1 G2 checkpoint kinase (WEE1) axis. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2021; 35:2058738420966087. [PMID: 33583218 PMCID: PMC7890721 DOI: 10.1177/2058738420966087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) X inactive specific transcript (XIST) is reported to play an oncogenic role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the role of XIST in regulating the radiosensitivity of NSCLC cells remains unclear. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expressions of XIST and miR-16-5p in NSCLC in tissues and cells, and Western blot was used to assess the expression of WEE1 G2 checkpoint kinase (WEE1). Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation and flow cytometry assays were used to determine cell viability and apoptosis after NSCLC cells were exposed to different doses of X-rays. The interaction between XIST and miR-16-5p was confirmed by StarBase database, qRT-PCR and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays. TargetScan database was used to predict WEE1 as a target of miR-16-5p, and their targeting relationship was further validated by Western blot, qRT-PCR and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays. XIST was highly expressed in both NSCLC tissue and cell lines, and knockdown of XIST repressed NSCLC cell viability and cell survival, and facilitated apoptosis under the irradiation. MiR-16-5p was a target of XIST, and rescue experiments demonstrated that miR-16-5p inhibitors could reverse the role of XIST knockdown on radiosensitivity in NSCLC cells. WEE1 was validated as a target gene of miR-16-5p, and WEE1 could be negatively regulated by XIST. XIST promotes the radioresistance of NSCLC cells by regulating the expressions of miR-16-5p and WEE1, which can be a novel target for NSCLC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Du
- Department of Pathology, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Department of Thoracic surgery, Liaocheng Tumor Hospital, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Yanhua Yin
- Department of Pathology, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Jinfen Xu
- Department of Oncology, Laigang Hospital Affiliated to Taishan Medical University, Laiwu, Shandong, China
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Oncology, Laigang Hospital Affiliated to Taishan Medical University, Laiwu, Shandong, China
| | - Likuan Hu
- Department of Radiation and Oncology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiuyu Wang
- Department of Pathology, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Du X, Li J, Luo X, Li R, Li F, Zhang Y, Shi J, He J. Structure-activity relationships of Wee1 inhibitors: A review. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 203:112524. [PMID: 32688199 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Wee1 kinase plays an important role in regulating G2/M checkpoint and S phase, and the inhibition of it will lead to mitotic catastrophe in cancer cells with p53 mutation or deletion. Therefore, the mechanism of Wee1 kinase in cancer treatment and the development of its inhibitors have become a research hotspot. However, although a variety of Wee1 inhibitors with different scaffolds and considerable activity have been successfully identified, so far no one has systematically summarized the structure-activity relationships (SARs) of Wee1 inhibitors. Previous reviews mainly focused on its mechanism and clinical application. To facilitate the rational design and development of Wee1 inhibitors in the future, this paper systematically summarizes its structural types, SARs and binding modes according to the Wee1 inhibitors reported in scientific journals, and also summarizes the regulatory effect of Wee1 kinase on cell cycle and the progress of its inhibitors in clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xingkai Du
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy & Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaojiao Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy & Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Rong Li
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Feng Li
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yiwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy & Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Jun He
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy & Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ghelli Luserna di Rorà A, Cerchione C, Martinelli G, Simonetti G. A WEE1 family business: regulation of mitosis, cancer progression, and therapeutic target. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:126. [PMID: 32958072 PMCID: PMC7507691 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00959-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The inhibition of the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway in the treatment of cancer has recently gained interest, and different DDR inhibitors have been developed. Among them, the most promising ones target the WEE1 kinase family, which has a crucial role in cell cycle regulation and DNA damage identification and repair in both nonmalignant and cancer cells. This review recapitulates and discusses the most recent findings on the biological function of WEE1/PKMYT1 during the cell cycle and in the DNA damage repair, with a focus on their dual role as tumor suppressors in nonmalignant cells and pseudo-oncogenes in cancer cells. We here report the available data on the molecular and functional alterations of WEE1/PKMYT1 kinases in both hematological and solid tumors. Moreover, we summarize the preclinical information on 36 chemo/radiotherapy agents, and in particular their effect on cell cycle checkpoints and on the cellular WEE1/PKMYT1-dependent response. Finally, this review outlines the most important pre-clinical and clinical data available on the efficacy of WEE1/PKMYT1 inhibitors in monotherapy and in combination with chemo/radiotherapy agents or with other selective inhibitors currently used or under evaluation for the treatment of cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ghelli Luserna di Rorà
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy
| | - Claudio Cerchione
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy
| | - Giorgia Simonetti
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yang L, Shen C, Pettit CJ, Li T, Hu AJ, Miller ED, Zhang J, Lin SH, Williams TM. Wee1 Kinase Inhibitor AZD1775 Effectively Sensitizes Esophageal Cancer to Radiotherapy. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 26:3740-3750. [PMID: 32220892 PMCID: PMC7367716 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-19-3373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Esophageal cancer is a deadly malignancy with a 5-year survival rate of only 5% to 20%, which has remained unchanged for decades. Esophageal cancer possesses a high frequency of TP53 mutations leading to dysfunctional G1 cell-cycle checkpoint, which likely makes esophageal cancer cells highly reliant upon G2-M checkpoint for adaptation to DNA replication stress and DNA damage after radiation. We aim to explore whether targeting Wee1 kinase to abolish G2-M checkpoint sensitizes esophageal cancer cells to radiotherapy. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Cell viability was assessed by cytotoxicity and colony-forming assays, cell-cycle distribution was analyzed by flow cytometry, and mitotic catastrophe was assessed by immunofluorescence staining. Human esophageal cancer xenografts were generated to explore the radiosensitizing effect of AZD1775 in vivo. RESULTS The IC50 concentrations of AZD1775 on esophageal cancer cell lines were between 300 and 600 nmol/L. AZD1775 (100 nmol/L) as monotherapy did not alter the viability of esophageal cancer cells, but significantly radiosensitized esophageal cancer cells. AZD1775 significantly abrogated radiation-induced G2-M phase arrest and attenuation of p-CDK1-Y15. Moreover, AZD1775 increased radiation-induced mitotic catastrophe, which was accompanied by increased γH2AX levels, and subsequently reduced survival after radiation. Importantly, AZD1775 in combination with radiotherapy resulted in marked tumor regression of esophageal cancer tumor xenografts. CONCLUSIONS Abrogation of G2-M checkpoint by targeting Wee1 kinase with AZD1775 sensitizes esophageal cancer cells to radiotherapy in vitro and in mouse xenografts. Our findings suggest that inhibition of Wee1 by AZD1775 is an effective strategy for radiosensitization in esophageal cancer and warrants clinical testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Yang
- The Ohio State University Medical Center, Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Changxian Shen
- The Ohio State University Medical Center, Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Cory J Pettit
- The Ohio State University Medical Center, Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Tianyun Li
- The Ohio State University Medical Center, Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Andrew J Hu
- The Ohio State University Medical Center, Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Eric D Miller
- The Ohio State University Medical Center, Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Junran Zhang
- The Ohio State University Medical Center, Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Steven H Lin
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Terence M Williams
- The Ohio State University Medical Center, Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Jariyal H, Weinberg F, Achreja A, Nagarath D, Srivastava A. Synthetic lethality: a step forward for personalized medicine in cancer. Drug Discov Today 2020; 25:305-320. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
25
|
Hou H, Qin K, Liang Y, Zhang C, Liu D, Jiang H, Liu K, Zhu J, Lv H, Li T, Zhang X. Concurrent TP53 mutations predict poor outcomes of EGFR-TKI treatments in Chinese patients with advanced NSCLC. Cancer Manag Res 2019; 11:5665-5675. [PMID: 31417310 PMCID: PMC6594053 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s201513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The study investigated the impact of TP53 mutations on the clinical efficacy of first-generation EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in Chinese patients with advanced or recurrent non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Patients and methods: Tissues from 163 NSCLC patients at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University were analyzed by next-generation sequencing (NGS) to determine the mutational status of EGFR and concurrent genetic alterations. TP53 mutations were evaluated in relation to baseline patient characteristics and treatment outcomes (progression-free survival [PFS], overall survival [OS], objective response rate [ORR] and disease control rate [DCR]). Results: Among 163 patients with advanced NSCLC, 77 were identified as EGFR-mutant (47.2%). Six patients who did not receive TKI treatment were excluded. Among the remaining 71 patients with EGFR genetic alterations, the frequency of pathogenic TP53 mutations was 60.6% (43/71), while other concurrent mutations were rare events. Markedly shorter median PFS (mPFS) (6.5 versus 14.0 months, P=0.025) and median OS (mOS) (28.0 versus 52.0 months, P=0.023) were observed in TP53-mut patients than in TP53-wt controls. The overall DCR and ORR of TP53-mutant patients were both lower than those of the TP53-wt cases (DCR: 76.7% versus 89.3%, P=0.160; ORR: 25% versus 28%, P=0.374). Differences in prognosis were significant, especially in the subgroup of patients with TP53 non-missense mutations, non-disruptive mutations, mutations in exon 6, mutations in exon 7 and mutations in the non-DBD region among all TP53 mutations. Conclusion: TP53 mutations reduce responsiveness to TKIs and worsen the prognosis of EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients, especially for those with non-missense mutations and non-disruptive mutations, as well as mutations in exon 6, exon 7 and non-DBD region, thus acting as an independent predictor of poor outcome in advanced NSCLC patients treated with first-generation TKI therapy. Our study also suggests that TP53 mutation might be involved in primary resistance to EGFR-TKIs in Chinese NSCLC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helei Hou
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Kang Qin
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Liang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuantao Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiping Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Kewei Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingjuan Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongying Lv
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianjun Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaochun Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Fu S, Wang Y, Keyomarsi K, Meric-Bernstein F. Strategic development of AZD1775, a Wee1 kinase inhibitor, for cancer therapy. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2018; 27:741-751. [DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2018.1511700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Siqing Fu
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yudong Wang
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Khandan Keyomarsi
- Department of Experimental Radiation, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Funda Meric-Bernstein
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Yang GJ, Zhong HJ, Ko CN, Wong SY, Vellaisamy K, Ye M, Ma DL, Leung CH. Identification of a rhodium(iii) complex as a Wee1 inhibitor against TP53-mutated triple-negative breast cancer cells. Chem Commun (Camb) 2018; 54:2463-2466. [PMID: 29367998 DOI: 10.1039/c7cc09384e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The rhodium(iii) complex 1 was identified as a potent Wee1 inhibitor in vitro and in cellulo. It decreased Wee1 activity and unscheduled mitotic entry, and induced cell damage and death in TP53-mutated triple-negative breast cancer cells. 1 represents a promising scaffold for further development of more potent metal-based Wee1 antagonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guan-Jun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|