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Shu W, Wang JZ, Zhu X, Wang K, Cherepanoff S, Conway RM, Madigan MC, Lim LA, Zhu H, Zhu L, Murray M, Zhou F. Lapatinib dysregulates HER2 signaling and impairs the viability of human uveal melanoma cells. J Cancer 2023; 14:3477-3495. [PMID: 38021158 PMCID: PMC10647189 DOI: 10.7150/jca.88446] [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: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the principal type of intraocular malignancy in adults. Up to 50% of UM patients develop metastatic disease with very poor survival. There are few drugs available to treat the primary or metastatic UM. This study was undertaken to evaluate the anti-cancer effect of lapatinib and corroborate the potential of HER2 inhibition in the treatment of UM. The anti-UM activity of lapatinib was assessed using cell viability, cell death and cell cycle analysis, and its anti-metastatic actions were evaluated using would healing, invasion and colony formation assays. Immunoblotting was used to substantiate the actions of lapatinib on apoptotic and HER2 signaling. The anti-UM activity of lapatinib was further evaluated in a UM xenograft mouse model. Lapatinib decreased the viability of four UM cell lines (IC50: 3.67-6.53 µM). The antiproliferative activity of lapatinib was corroborated in three primary cell lines isolated from UM patient tumors. In UM cell lines, lapatinib promoted apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, and strongly inhibited cell migration, invasion and reproductive cell growth. Lapatinib dysregulated HER2-AKT/ERK/PI3K signalling leading to the altered expression of apoptotic factors and cell cycle mediators in UM cell lines. Importantly, lapatinib suppressed tumourigenesis in mice carrying UM cell xenografts. Together the present findings are consistent with the assertion that HER2 is a viable therapeutic target in UM. Lapatinib is active in primary and metastatic UM as a clinically approved HER2 inhibitor. The activity of lapatinib in UM patients could be evaluated in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenying Shu
- The University of Sydney, Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health NSW 2006, Australia
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong Province 511400, China
| | - Janney Z Wang
- The University of Sydney, Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Xue Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Ministry of Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province 214063, China
| | - Ke Wang
- Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Ministry of Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province 214063, China
| | - Svetlana Cherepanoff
- SydPath, Department of Anatomical Pathology, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - R. Max Conway
- Ocular Oncology Unit, Sydney Eye Hospital and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michele C Madigan
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Li-Anne Lim
- Ocular Oncology Unit, Sydney Eye Hospital and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Hong Zhu
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310058, China
| | - Ling Zhu
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michael Murray
- The University of Sydney, Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Fanfan Zhou
- The University of Sydney, Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health NSW 2006, Australia
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Kannampuzha S, Murali R, Gopalakrishnan AV, Mukherjee AG, Wanjari UR, Namachivayam A, George A, Dey A, Vellingiri B. Novel biomolecules in targeted cancer therapy: a new approach towards precision medicine. Med Oncol 2023; 40:323. [PMID: 37804361 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02168-6] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a major threat to human life around the globe, and the discovery of novel biomolecules continue to be an urgent therapeutic need that is still unmet. Precision medicine relies on targeted therapeutic strategies. Researchers are better equipped to develop therapies that target proteins as they understand more about the genetic alterations and molecules that cause progression of cancer. There has been a recent diversification of the sorts of targets exploited in treatment. Therapeutic antibody and biotechnology advancements enabled curative treatments to reach previously inaccessible sites. New treatment strategies have been initiated for several undruggable targets. The application of tailored therapy has been proven to have efficient results in controlling cancer progression. Novel biomolecules like SMDCs, ADCs, mABs, and PROTACS has gained vast attention in the recent years. Several studies have shown that using these novel technology helps in reducing the drug dosage as well as to overcome drug resistance in different cancer types. Therefore, it is crucial to fully untangle the mechanism and collect evidence to understand the significance of these novel drug targets and strategies. This review article will be discussing the importance and role of these novel biomolecules in targeted cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Kannampuzha
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Reshma Murali
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
| | - Anirban Goutam Mukherjee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Arunraj Namachivayam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Alex George
- Jubilee Centre for Medical Research, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Medical Services, MGM Cancer Institute, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600029, India
| | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
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Simiczyjew A, Wądzyńska J, Kot M, Ziętek M, Matkowski R, Hoang MP, Donizy P, Nowak D. Combinations of EGFR and MET inhibitors reduce proliferation and invasiveness of mucosal melanoma cells. J Cell Mol Med 2023; 27:2995-3008. [PMID: 37679999 PMCID: PMC10538264 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucosal melanoma (MM) is a very rare and aggressive type of cancer for which immunotherapy or targeted therapy such as BRAF/MEK inhibitors, used in cutaneous melanoma, usually fail. Due to our earlier experience showing the high effectiveness of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and hepatocyte growth factor receptor (MET) inhibitors in reducing the activation of the MAPK and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways, we aim to test whether these drugs would also be effective for mucosal melanoma. Cells representing two commercially available mucosal melanoma cell lines (GAK and HMVII) and one cell line obtained from a patient's vaginal melanoma were treated with MET or EGFR inhibitors, or combinations of these agents. The dual-inhibitor treatment strategy resulted in a decrease of cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Moreover, combinations of inhibitors led to reduction of pEGFR/EGFR and pMET/MET ratio and downregulation of PI3K/AKT and MEK/ERK1/2-based signalling pathways. Our findings indicate a potential therapeutic strategy based on EGFR and MET inhibitors in mucosal melanoma, which should be further evaluated in vivo and in clinical experiments. They also suggest that targeting multiple receptor tyrosine kinases may block signalling crosstalk and possibly delay the appearance of resistance to kinase inhibitors in mucosal melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Simiczyjew
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of BiotechnologyUniversity of WroclawWroclawPoland
| | - Justyna Wądzyńska
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of BiotechnologyUniversity of WroclawWroclawPoland
| | - Magdalena Kot
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of BiotechnologyUniversity of WroclawWroclawPoland
| | - Marcin Ziętek
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical OncologyWroclaw Medical UniversityWroclawPoland
- Lower Silesian OncologyPulmonology and Hematology CenterWroclawPoland
| | - Rafał Matkowski
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical OncologyWroclaw Medical UniversityWroclawPoland
- Lower Silesian OncologyPulmonology and Hematology CenterWroclawPoland
| | - Mai P. Hoang
- Department of PathologyMassachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Piotr Donizy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental PathologyWroclaw Medical UniversityWroclawPoland
- Department of Pathology and Clinical CytologyJan Mikulicz‐Radecki University HospitalWroclawPoland
| | - Dorota Nowak
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of BiotechnologyUniversity of WroclawWroclawPoland
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Wądzyńska J, Simiczyjew A, Pietraszek-Gremplewicz K, Kot M, Ziętek M, Matkowski R, Nowak D. The impact of cellular elements of TME on melanoma biology and its sensitivity to EGFR and MET targeted therapy. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2023; 1870:119549. [PMID: 37506884 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Microenvironment of the melanoma consists of cellular elements like fibroblasts, adipocytes, and keratinocytes as well as extracellular matrix and physicochemical conditions. In our previous research, we have established that melanoma influences strongly above mentioned cells present in the tumor niche and recruits them to support cancer progression. In this work, we evaluated the impact of cancer-associated cells, namely fibroblasts (CAFs), adipocytes (CAAs), and keratinocytes (CAKs) on melanoma proliferation, signaling pathways activation, metabolism as well as the effectiveness of used anti-cancer therapy. Obtained results indicated elevated phosphorylation of STAT3, upregulated GLUT1 and GLUT3 as well as downregulated of MCT-1 expression level in melanoma cells under the influence of all examined cells present in the tumor niche. The proliferation of melanoma cells was increased after co-culture with CAFs and CAKs, while epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers' expression level was raised in the presence of CAFs and CAAs. The level of perilipin 2 and lipid content was elevated in melanoma cells under the influence of CAAs. Moreover, increased expression of CYP1A1, gene encoding drug metabolizing protein, in melanoma cells co-cultured with CAFs and CAKs prompted us to verify the effectiveness of the previously proposed by us anti-melanoma therapy based on combination of EGFR and MET inhibitors. Obtained results indicate that the designed therapy is still efficient, even if the fibroblasts, adipocytes, and keratinocytes, are present in the melanoma vicinity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Wądzyńska
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Aleksandra Simiczyjew
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Magdalena Kot
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Ziętek
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413 Wroclaw, Poland; Lower Silesian Oncology, Pulmonology, and Hematology Center, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Matkowski
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413 Wroclaw, Poland; Lower Silesian Oncology, Pulmonology, and Hematology Center, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Nowak
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wroclaw, Poland.
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Neuendorf HM, Simmons JL, Boyle GM. Therapeutic targeting of anoikis resistance in cutaneous melanoma metastasis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1183328. [PMID: 37181747 PMCID: PMC10169659 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1183328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The acquisition of resistance to anoikis, the cell death induced by loss of adhesion to the extracellular matrix, is an absolute requirement for the survival of disseminating and circulating tumour cells (CTCs), and for the seeding of metastatic lesions. In melanoma, a range of intracellular signalling cascades have been identified as potential drivers of anoikis resistance, however a full understanding of the process is yet to be attained. Mechanisms of anoikis resistance pose an attractive target for the therapeutic treatment of disseminating and circulating melanoma cells. This review explores the range of small molecule, peptide and antibody inhibitors targeting molecules involved in anoikis resistance in melanoma, and may be repurposed to prevent metastatic melanoma prior to its initiation, potentially improving the prognosis for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M. Neuendorf
- Cancer Drug Mechanisms Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jacinta L. Simmons
- Cancer Drug Mechanisms Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Glen M. Boyle
- Cancer Drug Mechanisms Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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6
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Alpha-Enolase (ENO1) Correlates with Invasiveness of Cutaneous Melanoma—An In Vitro and a Clinical Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12020254. [PMID: 35204345 PMCID: PMC8871300 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12020254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Alpha-enolase (ENO1) undergoes accentuated overexpression in several solid cancers, but little is known about its status in cutaneous melanoma. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic significance of ENO1 in surgical resections from melanoma patients and to assess its expression and enzymatic activity in several melanoma cell lines. In clinical analysis, the overexpression of ENO1 in melanoma cells was significantly correlated with advanced clinical stage, presence of metastases in regional lymph nodes, and shorter cancer-specific overall survival and disease-free survival. We also demonstrated high expression of ENO1 in melanoma cell lines compared with normal melanocytes. Our study, which extends previous in vitro research, makes the alpha-enolase a candidate for a promising diagnostic and therapeutic target for various types of cancers. Consequently, additional testing of ENO1 as a target for melanoma therapy is necessary. Abstract Alpha-enolase (ENO1) is a glycolytic metalloenzyme, and its overexpression occurs in numerous cancers, contributing to cancer cell survival, proliferation, and maintenance of the Warburg effect. Patients with an overexpression of ENO1 have a poor prognosis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prognostic significance of ENO1 in surgical resections from 112 melanoma patients and to assess its expression and enzymatic activity in normoxia and hypoxia in several melanoma cell lines. Overexpression of ENO1 in tumor cells from patients was correlated with unfavorable prognosticators such as Breslow thickness, Clark level, mitotic activity, and the presence of ulceration. The expression of ENO1 also positively correlated with a greater thickness of the neoplastic infiltrate and a worse long-term prognosis for patients with cutaneous melanoma. We report significantly higher expression of ENO1 in melanoma cell lines in comparison to normal melanocytes. To conclude, our in vitro and clinical models showed that overexpression of ENO1 promotes invasiveness of melanoma cells and correlates with aggressive clinical behavior. These observations open the way to further search of a potential prognostic and therapeutic target in cutaneous melanoma.
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Skarżyńska A, Kowalczyk M, Majchrzak M, Piętka M, Augustyniak AW, Siczek M, Włodarczyk K, Simiczyjew A, Nowak D. The two faces of platinum hydrospirophosphorane complexes—Not only relevant catalysts but cytotoxic compounds as well. Appl Organomet Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/aoc.6520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mariusz Majchrzak
- Faculty of Chemistry Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań Poznań Poland
| | - Marta Piętka
- Faculty of Chemistry Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań Poznań Poland
| | | | - Miłosz Siczek
- Faculty of Chemistry University of Wrocław Wrocław Poland
| | | | - Aleksandra Simiczyjew
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology University of Wrocław Wrocław Poland
| | - Dorota Nowak
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology University of Wrocław Wrocław Poland
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8
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Amewu RK, Sakyi PO, Osei-Safo D, Addae-Mensah I. Synthetic and Naturally Occurring Heterocyclic Anticancer Compounds with Multiple Biological Targets. Molecules 2021; 26:7134. [PMID: 34885716 PMCID: PMC8658833 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26237134] [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: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a complex group of diseases initiated by abnormal cell division with the potential of spreading to other parts of the body. The advancement in the discoveries of omics and bio- and cheminformatics has led to the identification of drugs inhibiting putative targets including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family receptors, fibroblast growth factors (FGF), platelet derived growth factors (PDGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), thymidine phosphorylase (TP), and neuropeptide Y4 (NY4), amongst others. Drug resistance, systemic toxicity, and drug ineffectiveness for various cancer chemo-treatments are widespread. Due to this, efficient therapeutic agents targeting two or more of the putative targets in different cancer cells are proposed as cutting edge treatments. Heterocyclic compounds, both synthetic and natural products, have, however, contributed immensely to chemotherapeutics for treatments of various diseases, but little is known about such compounds and their multimodal anticancer properties. A compendium of heterocyclic synthetic and natural product multitarget anticancer compounds, their IC50, and biological targets of inhibition are therefore presented in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Kwamla Amewu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 56, Ghana; (R.K.A.); (P.O.S.); (D.O.-S.)
| | - Patrick Opare Sakyi
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 56, Ghana; (R.K.A.); (P.O.S.); (D.O.-S.)
- Department of Chemical Sciences, School of Sciences, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani P.O. Box 214, Ghana
| | - Dorcas Osei-Safo
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 56, Ghana; (R.K.A.); (P.O.S.); (D.O.-S.)
| | - Ivan Addae-Mensah
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 56, Ghana; (R.K.A.); (P.O.S.); (D.O.-S.)
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Ayoub NM, Ibrahim DR, Alkhalifa AE. Overcoming resistance to targeted therapy using MET inhibitors in solid cancers: evidence from preclinical and clinical studies. Med Oncol 2021; 38:143. [PMID: 34665336 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-021-01596-6] [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: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Targeted therapy is a hallmark of cancer treatment that has changed the landscape of cancer management and enabled a personalized treatment approach. Nevertheless, the development of cancer resistance is a major challenge that is currently threatening the effective utilization of targeted therapies. The hepatocyte growth factor receptor, MET, is a receptor tyrosine kinase known for its oncogenic activity and tumorigenic potential. MET is a well-known driver of cancer resistance. A growing body of evidence revealed a major role of MET in mediating acquired resistance to several classes of targeted therapies. Deregulations of MET commonly associated with the development of cancer resistance include gene amplification, overexpression, autocrine activation, and crosstalk with other signaling pathways. Small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors of MET are currently approved for the treatment of different solid cancers. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding MET-mediated cancer resistance toward targeted therapies. The molecular mechanisms associated with resistance are described along with findings from preclinical and clinical studies on using MET inhibitors to restore the anticancer activity of targeted therapies for the treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehad M Ayoub
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
| | - Dalia R Ibrahim
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Amer E Alkhalifa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
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Sabbah M, Najem A, Krayem M, Awada A, Journe F, Ghanem GE. RTK Inhibitors in Melanoma: From Bench to Bedside. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1685. [PMID: 33918490 PMCID: PMC8038208 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MAPK (mitogen activated protein kinase) and PI3K/AKT (Phosphatidylinositol-3-Kinase and Protein Kinase B) pathways play a key role in melanoma progression and metastasis that are regulated by receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). Although RTKs are mutated in a small percentage of melanomas, several receptors were found up regulated/altered in various stages of melanoma initiation, progression, or metastasis. Targeting RTKs remains a significant challenge in melanoma, due to their variable expression across different melanoma stages of progression and among melanoma subtypes that consequently affect response to treatment and disease progression. In this review, we discuss in details the activation mechanism of several key RTKs: type III: c-KIT (mast/stem cell growth factor receptor); type I: EGFR (Epidermal growth factor receptor); type VIII: HGFR (hepatocyte growth factor receptor); type V: VEGFR (Vascular endothelial growth factor), structure variants, the function of their structural domains, and their alteration and its association with melanoma initiation and progression. Furthermore, several RTK inhibitors targeting the same receptor were tested alone or in combination with other therapies, yielding variable responses among different melanoma groups. Here, we classified RTK inhibitors by families and summarized all tested drugs in melanoma indicating the rationale behind the use of these drugs in each melanoma subgroups from preclinical studies to clinical trials with a specific focus on their purpose of treatment, resulted effect, and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malak Sabbah
- Laboratory of Oncology and Experimental Surgery, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (M.S.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (F.J.)
| | - Ahmad Najem
- Laboratory of Oncology and Experimental Surgery, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (M.S.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (F.J.)
| | - Mohammad Krayem
- Laboratory of Oncology and Experimental Surgery, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (M.S.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (F.J.)
| | - Ahmad Awada
- Medical Oncolgy Clinic, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Fabrice Journe
- Laboratory of Oncology and Experimental Surgery, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (M.S.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (F.J.)
| | - Ghanem E. Ghanem
- Laboratory of Oncology and Experimental Surgery, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (M.S.); (A.N.); (M.K.); (F.J.)
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11
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Gortany NK, Panahi G, Ghafari H, Shekari M, Ghazi-Khansari M. Foretinib induces G2/M cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and invasion in human glioblastoma cells through c-MET inhibition. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2021; 87:827-842. [PMID: 33688998 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-021-04242-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive human cancers. The c-MET receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) which is frequently deregulated in GBM is considered as a promising target for GBM treatment. The c-MET plays a key role in cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Here, we investigated the anti-tumour activity of foretinib, a c-MET inhibitor, on three human GBM cells (T98G, U87MG and U251). METHODS Anti-proliferative effect of foretinib was determined using MTT, crystal violet staining, and clonogenic assays. PI and Annexin V/PI staining flow cytometry were used to evaluate the effects of foretinib on cell cycle and apoptosis, respectively. Scratch assay, qRT-PCR, western blot, and zymography analyses were applied to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-tumour activity of foretinib. RESULTS Foretinib treatment reduced phosphorylation of c-MET on T98G and U251 cells, but not in U87MG cells. The highest inhibitory effect was observed in T98G cells (IC50 = 4.66 ± 0.29 µM) and the lowest one in U87MG cells (IC50 = 29.99 ± 1.31 µM). The results showed that foretinib inhibited the proliferation of GBM cells through a G2/M cell cycle arrest and mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in association with alternation in expression of the related genes and protein-regulated G2/M phase and apoptosis. Foretinib diminished GBM cell invasion through downregulation of the proteolytic cascade of MMP2, uPA and uPAR and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes. A different GBM cell sensitivity pattern was noticeable in all experiments which demonstrated T98G as a sensitive and U87MG as a resistant phenotype to foretinib treatment. CONCLUSION The results indicated that foretinib might have the therapeutic potential against human GBM which deserve further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges K Gortany
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute of I.R. Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 13145-784, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghodratollah Panahi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Homanaz Ghafari
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 13145-784, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Shekari
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 13145-784, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute of I.R. Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 13145-784, Tehran, Iran.
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12
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Tangella LP, Clark ME, Gray ES. Resistance mechanisms to targeted therapy in BRAF-mutant melanoma - A mini review. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2020; 1865:129736. [PMID: 32956754 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2020.129736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The introduction of targeted therapies for the treatment of BRAF-mutant melanomas have improved survival rates in a significant proportion of patients. Nonetheless, the emergence of resistance to treatment remains inevitable in most patients. SCOPE OF REVIEW Here, we review known and emerging molecular mechanisms that underlay the development of resistance to MAPK inhibition in melanoma cells and the potential strategies to overcome these mechanisms. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Multiple genetic and non-genetic mechanisms contribute to treatment failure, commonly leading to the reactivation of the MAPK pathway. A variety of resistance mechanisms are enabled by the underlying heterogeneity and plasticity of melanoma cells. Moreover, it has become apparent that resistance to targeted therapy is underpinned by early functional adaptations involving the rewiring of cell states and metabolic pathways. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE The evidence presented suggest that the use of a combinatorial treatment approach would delay the emergence of resistance and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lokeswari P Tangella
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth 6027, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michael E Clark
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth 6027, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Elin S Gray
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth 6027, Western Australia, Australia.
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13
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Crizotinib induced antitumor activity and synergized with chemotherapy and hormonal drugs in breast cancer cells via downregulating MET and estrogen receptor levels. Invest New Drugs 2020; 39:77-88. [PMID: 32833135 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-020-00989-0] [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: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
MET is a receptor tyrosine kinase known to drive neoplastic transformation and aggressive tumor phenotypes. Crizotinib is an oral multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor of MET, ALK, RON, and ROS1 kinases. In this study, the anticancer effects of crizotinib on breast cancer cells were investigated in vitro along with the molecular mechanisms associated with these effects. Besides, the antiproliferative effects of crizotinib in combination with chemotherapy, hormonal drugs, and targeted agents were examined. Results showed that crizotinib produced dose-dependent antiproliferative effects in BT-474 and SK-BR-3 breast cancer cells with IC50 values of 1.7 μM and 5.2 μM, respectively. Crizotinib inhibited colony formation of BT-474 cells at low micromolar concentrations (1-5 μM). Immunofluorescence and Western blotting indicated that crizotinib reduced total levels of MET and estrogen receptor (ERα) in BT-474 cells. Also, crizotinib reduced the levels of phosphorylated (active) MET and HER2 in BT-474 cells. The combined treatment of crizotinib with doxorubicin and paclitaxel resulted in synergistic growth inhibition of BT-474 cells with combination index values of 0.46 and 0.35, respectively. Synergy was also observed with the combination of crizotinib with the hormonal drugs 4-hydroxytamoxifen and fulvestrant in BT-474 cells. Alternatively, the combination of crizotinib with lapatinib produced antagonistic antiproliferative effects in both BT-474 and SK-BR-3 cells. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the anticancer effects of crizotinib in breast cancer cells and reveal ERα as a potential therapeutic target of the drug apart from its classical kinase inhibitory activity. Crizotinib could be an appealing option in combination with chemotherapy or hormonal drugs for the management of breast cancer.
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14
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Malek N, Mrówczyńska E, Michrowska A, Mazurkiewicz E, Pavlyk I, Mazur AJ. Knockout of ACTB and ACTG1 with CRISPR/Cas9(D10A) Technique Shows that Non-Muscle β and γ Actin Are Not Equal in Relation to Human Melanoma Cells' Motility and Focal Adhesion Formation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082746. [PMID: 32326615 PMCID: PMC7216121 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-muscle actins have been studied for many decades; however, the reason for the existence of both isoforms is still unclear. Here we show, for the first time, a successful inactivation of the ACTB (CRISPR clones with inactivated ACTB, CR-ACTB) and ACTG1 (CRISPR clones with inactivated ACTG1, CR-ACTG1) genes in human melanoma cells (A375) via the RNA-guided D10A mutated Cas9 nuclease gene editing [CRISPR/Cas9(D10A)] technique. This approach allowed us to evaluate how melanoma cell motility was impacted by the lack of either β actin coded by ACTB or γ actin coded by ACTG1. First, we observed different distributions of β and γ actin in the cells, and the absence of one actin isoform was compensated for via increased expression of the other isoform. Moreover, we noted that γ actin knockout had more severe consequences on cell migration and invasion than β actin knockout. Next, we observed that the formation rate of bundled stress fibers in CR-ACTG1 cells was increased, but lamellipodial activity in these cells was impaired, compared to controls. Finally, we discovered that the formation rate of focal adhesions (FAs) and, subsequently, FA-dependent signaling were altered in both the CR-ACTB and CR-ACTG1 clones; however, a more detrimental effect was observed for γ actin-deficient cells. Our research shows that both non-muscle actins play distinctive roles in melanoma cells’ FA formation and motility.
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15
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Characterization of Melanoma Cell Lines Resistant to Vemurafenib and Evaluation of Their Responsiveness to EGFR- and MET-Inhibitor Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010113. [PMID: 31877948 PMCID: PMC6981576 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Constitutively active mutated BRAF kinase occurs in more than 40% of patients suffering from melanoma. To block its activity, a specific inhibitor, vemurafenib, is applied as a therapy. Unfortunately, patients develop resistance to this drug rather quickly. Previously, we demonstrated that pairs of inhibitors directed against EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) and MET (hepatocyte growth factor receptor) trigger a synergistic cytotoxic effect in human melanoma cells, and decrease their invasive abilities. In this study, we aimed to generate and characterize melanoma cells resistant to vemurafenib treatment, and then to evaluate the effectiveness of a previously developed therapy in this model. We showed that melanoma cells resistant to the BRAF inhibitor are characterized by a lower proliferation rate and they acquire a spindle-like shape. Using Western Blot, we also noticed increased levels of EGFR, MET, and selected markers of cancer stem cells in generated cell lines. Resistant cells also exhibited increased invasive abilities and elevated proteolytic activity, observed using scratch wound assays and gelatin zymography. Moreover, combination therapy reduced their viability, as measured with a colorimetric cytotoxicity test, and decreased invasiveness. The obtained results validate the application of combination therapy directed against EGFR and MET in melanoma cells resistant to treatment with inhibitors of mutated BRAF.
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16
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Pietraszek-Gremplewicz K, Simiczyjew A, Dratkiewicz E, Podgórska M, Styczeń I, Matkowski R, Ziętek M, Nowak D. Expression level of EGFR and MET receptors regulates invasiveness of melanoma cells. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:8453-8463. [PMID: 31638339 PMCID: PMC6850915 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidermal and hepatocyte growth factors can stimulate invasive abilities of melanoma cells, while treatment with combination of their receptors' (EGFR and MET, respectively) inhibitors reduces viability of these cells, as we have previously shown. Proposed therapy has potential; however, used drugs block more than one goal effectively, what raises the question about the real target of analysed inhibitors. For this reason, we analysed direct involvement of these receptors in the invasion of melanoma cells inducing EGFR and MET up‐ and down‐regulations in examined cells. Results were acquired with assays evaluating cell migration and invasion (scratch wound assay, Transwell filter‐based method and single‐cell tracking). We revealed that cells' motile abilities are increased after EGFR overexpression and decreased following EGFR and MET silencing. This outcome correlates with elevated (EGFR up‐regulation) or reduced (EGFR/MET down‐regulation) number of formed invadopodia, visualized with immunofluorescence, and their rate of proteolytic abilities, evaluated by fluorescent gelatin degradation assay, and gelatin zymography, compared to control cells. Above‐mentioned data indicate that both—EGFR and MET signalling is directly connected with melanoma cells invasion, what establishes these receptors as promising targets for anti‐cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aleksandra Simiczyjew
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Ewelina Dratkiewicz
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marta Podgórska
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Ilona Styczeń
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Matkowski
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.,Lower Silesian Oncology Center, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Ziętek
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.,Lower Silesian Oncology Center, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Nowak
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
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17
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Simiczyjew A, Pietraszek-Gremplewicz K, Dratkiewicz E, Podgórska M, Matkowski R, Ziętek M, Nowak D. Combination of Selected MET and EGFR Inhibitors Decreases Melanoma Cells' Invasive Abilities. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1116. [PMID: 31649529 PMCID: PMC6792435 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown that combination of foretinib, an inhibitor of MET (hepatocyte growth factor receptor), with gefitinib or lapatinib, inhibitors of EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor), has a synergistic cytotoxic effect on melanoma cells. However, there are cancer cells resistant to drugs’ treatment which are still able to invade. Thus, in this study, we examined the influence of these drugs on invasive abilities of melanoma cells. To investigate cell migration and invasion, Transwell inserts and wound healing assay were used. Cell viability was evaluated by XTT method, while invadopodia formation by immunocytochemistry. Level of phosphorylated Src kinase (pSrc) was verified by Western blot. Proteolytic activity of cells was analyzed using gelatin conjugated with fluorescein degradation assay and gelatin zymography. Combination of used inhibitors diminished cell movement, resulting in smaller distances covered by cells, and decreased the ratio of cells with ability to cross the Transwell inserts. These inhibitors induced changes in formation of invadopodia and actin cytoskeleton organization. Their application also decreased the level of pSrc kinase. Furthermore, used drugs led to reduction of proteolytic activity of examined cells. Our data support the idea that simultaneous targeting of EGFR and MET could be a promising therapeutic strategy inhibiting not only tumor cell growth but also its metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Simiczyjew
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Ewelina Dratkiewicz
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marta Podgórska
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Matkowski
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.,Lower Silesian Oncology Center, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Ziętek
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.,Lower Silesian Oncology Center, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Nowak
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
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Combining ERBB family and MET inhibitors is an effective therapeutic strategy in cutaneous malignant melanoma independent of BRAF/NRAS mutation status. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:663. [PMID: 31506424 PMCID: PMC6737096 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1875-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Current treatment modalities for disseminated cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) improve survival; however, relapses are common. A number of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) including EGFR and MET have been reported to be involved in CMM metastasis and in the development of resistance to therapy, targeting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK pathway). IHC analysis showed that patients with higher MET protein expression had a significantly shorter overall survival. In addition, silencing of MET caused an upregulation of EGFR and p-AKT, which was abrogated by concomitant silencing of MET and EGFR in CMM cells resistant to MAPK-targeting drugs. We therefore explored novel treatment strategies using clinically approved drugs afatinib (ERBB family inhibitor) and crizotinib (MET inhibitor), to simultaneously block MET and ERBB family RTKs. The effects of the combination were assessed in cell culture and spheroid models using established CMM and patient-derived short-term cell lines, and an in vivo xenograft mouse model. The combination had a synergistic effect, promoting cell death, concomitant with a potent downregulation of migratory and invasive capacity independent of their BRAF/NRAS mutational status. Furthermore, the combination attenuated tumor growth rate, as ascertained by the significant reduction of Ki67 expression and induced DNA damage in vivo. Importantly, this combination therapy had minimal therapy-related toxicity in mice. Lastly, the cell cycle G2 checkpoint kinase WEE1 and the RTK IGF1R, non-canonical targets, were altered upon exposure to the combination. Knockdown of WEE1 abrogated the combination-mediated effects on cell migration and proliferation in BRAF mutant BRAF inhibitor-sensitive cells, whereas WEE1 silencing alone inhibited cell migration in NRAS mutant cells. In summary, our results show that afatinib and crizotinib in combination is a promising alternative targeted therapy option for CMM patients, irrespective of BRAF/NRAS mutational status, as well as for cases where resistance has developed towards BRAF inhibitors.
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19
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Sun ZG, Liu JH, Zhang JM, Qian Y. Research Progress of Axl Inhibitors. Curr Top Med Chem 2019; 19:1338-1349. [PMID: 31218961 DOI: 10.2174/1568026619666190620155613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Axl, a Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (RTK) belonging to the TAM (Axl, Mer, Tyro3) family, participates in many signal transduction cascades after mostly being stimulated by Growth arrestspecific 6(Gas6). Axl is widely expressed in many organs, such as macrophages, endothelial cells, heart, liver and skeletal muscle. Over-expression and activation of Axl are associated with promoting chemotherapy resistance, cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis in many human cancers, such as breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers. Therefore, the research and development of Axl inhibitors is of great significance to strengthen the means of cancer treatment, especially to solve the problem of drug resistance. Axl inhibitors have attracted more and more researchers' attention in recent years. This review discusses the research progress of Axl inhibitors in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Gang Sun
- Central Laboratory, Linyi Central Hospital, No.17 Jiankang Road, Linyi 276400, China.,State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, No.163 Xianlin Road, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jian-Hua Liu
- Central Laboratory, Linyi Central Hospital, No.17 Jiankang Road, Linyi 276400, China
| | - Jin-Mai Zhang
- Room 205, BIO-X white house, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Yong Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, No.163 Xianlin Road, Nanjing 210023, China
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20
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Rossi A, Roberto M, Panebianco M, Botticelli A, Mazzuca F, Marchetti P. Drug resistance of BRAF-mutant melanoma: Review of up-to-date mechanisms of action and promising targeted agents. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 862:172621. [PMID: 31446019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.172621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma onset and progression are associated with a high variety of activating mutations in the MAPK-pathway, most frequently involving BRAF (35-45%) and NRAS (15-25%) genes, but also c-KIT and PTEN. Targeted therapies with BRAF and MEK inhibitors showed promising results over the past years, but it is known that most responses are temporary, and almost all of patients develop a tumor relapse within one year. Different drug-resistance mechanisms underlie the progression of disease and activation of both MAPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways. Therefore, in this article we reviewed the main studies about clinical effects of several target inhibitors, describing properly the most prominent mechanisms of both intrinsic and acquired resistance. Furthermore, suggestive strategies for overcoming drug resistance and the most recent alternative combination therapies to optimize the use of MAPK pathway inhibitors were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rossi
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Roberto
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy; Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Translation Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy.
| | - Martina Panebianco
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Botticelli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Mazzuca
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Marchetti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy; Oncology Unit, IDI-IRCCS of Rome, Italy
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Abstract
The prognosis of metastatic melanoma has not changed throughout the 20th century. However, in the last decade, we have witnessed a continuous improvement in survival, with many long-term survivors. These results are largely because of the simultaneous development of the knowledge in the biology of metastatic malignant melanoma and of the relationship between the disease and the host's immune system that allowed the development of effective new treatments. In this overview, we summarize the therapies available today, their biological rationale, and the research field currently under investigation divided into three main chapters: target therapies, immunotherapies, and their combination.
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