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Riaud M, Maxwell J, Soria-Bretones I, Dankner M, Li M, Rose AAN. The role of CRAF in cancer progression: from molecular mechanisms to precision therapies. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:105-122. [PMID: 38195917 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00650-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
The RAF family of kinases includes key activators of the pro-tumourigenic mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. Hyperactivation of RAF proteins, particularly BRAF and CRAF, drives tumour progression and drug resistance in many types of cancer. Although BRAF is the most studied RAF protein, partially owing to its high mutation incidence in melanoma, the role of CRAF in tumourigenesis and drug resistance is becoming increasingly clinically relevant. Here, we summarize the main known regulatory mechanisms and gene alterations that contribute to CRAF activity, highlighting the different oncogenic roles of CRAF, and categorize RAF1 (CRAF) mutations according to the effect on kinase activity. Additionally, we emphasize the effect that CRAF alterations may have on drug resistance and how precision therapies could effectively target CRAF-dependent tumours. Here, we discuss preclinical and clinical findings that may lead to improved treatments for all types of oncogenic RAF1 alterations in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody Riaud
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jennifer Maxwell
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Isabel Soria-Bretones
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew Dankner
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Meredith Li
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - April A N Rose
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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2
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Receptor Tyrosine Kinases Amplified in Diffuse-Type Gastric Carcinoma: Potential Targeted Therapies and Novel Downstream Effectors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153750. [PMID: 35954414 PMCID: PMC9367326 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153750] [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: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Diffuse-type gastric carcinoma (DGC) is an aggressive subtype of gastric carcinoma with an extremely poor prognosis due to frequent peritoneal metastasis and high probability of recurrence. Its pathogenesis is poorly understood, and consequently, no effective molecular targeted therapy is available. The importance of oncogenic receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling has been recently demonstrated in the malignant progression of DGC. In particular, RTK gene amplification appears to accelerate peritoneal metastasis. In this review, we provide an overview of RTK gene amplification in DGC and the potential of related targeted therapies. Abstract Gastric cancer (GC) is a major cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Patients with an aggressive subtype of GC, known as diffuse-type gastric carcinoma (DGC), have extremely poor prognoses. DGC is characterized by rapid infiltrative growth, massive desmoplastic stroma, frequent peritoneal metastasis, and high probability of recurrence. These clinical features and progression patterns of DGC substantially differ from those of other GC subtypes, suggesting the existence of specific oncogenic signals. The importance of gene amplification and the resulting aberrant activation of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling in the malignant progression of DGC is becoming apparent. Here, we review the characteristics of RTK gene amplification in DGC and its importance in peritoneal metastasis. These insights may potentially lead to new targeted therapeutics.
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3
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Harrold E, Corrigan L, Barry S, Lowery M. Targeting MET amplification in Gastro-oesophageal (GO) malignancies and overcoming MET inhibitor resistance: challenges and opportunities. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 16:601-624. [PMID: 35757852 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2022.2093185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION MET, the hepatocyte growth factor receptor is amplified in 8% of gastroesophageal (GO) malignancies and associated with poor prognosis. Therapeutic targeting of MET amplification and MET mutations has the potential to improve outcomes for patients with GO cancers (GOC). AREAS COVERED The efficacy of MET inhibition (METi) in preclinical studies has yet to translate into meaningful improvements in the treatment paradigm for unselected GOC. MET amplification has been proposed as a superior modality for patient selection; however even if confirmed, frequency and duration of response to METi are limited by rapid activation of primary and secondary resistance pathways. These observations illustrate the challenges inherent in the application of precision oncology predicated on the theory of oncogenic addiction. EXPERT OPINION A standardized definition of MET positivity is critical to enhance patient selection. Early successes targeting the METex14 skipping mutation demonstrate the potent therapeutic effects of METi in a clearly molecularly defined cohort. There is robust preclinical rationale and early-phase data supporting exploitation of immune system interaction with MET. Pragmatic investigation of rational therapeutic combinations based on molecular profiling of both primary and metastatic disease sites with sequential circulating tumor DNA analysis can inform successful clinical development of METi agents in GOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Harrold
- Medical Oncology Department, Mater Private Hospital Dublin, Leinster, Ireland.,Trinity St James Cancer Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Leinster, Ireland
| | - Lynda Corrigan
- Trinity St James Cancer Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Leinster, Ireland.,Medical Oncology Department, Tallaght/AMNCH Hospital Dublin, Leinster, Ireland
| | - Simon Barry
- Medical Oncology Department, St James University Hospital Dublin, Leinster, Ireland
| | - Maeve Lowery
- Trinity St James Cancer Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Leinster, Ireland.,Medical Oncology Department, St James University Hospital Dublin, Leinster, Ireland
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4
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Reddi KK, Guruvaiah P, Edwards YJK, Gupta R. Changes in the Transcriptome and Chromatin Landscape in BRAFi-Resistant Melanoma Cells. Front Oncol 2022; 12:937831. [PMID: 35785205 PMCID: PMC9247198 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.937831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic and drug-resistant melanoma are leading causes of skin cancer-associated death. Mitogen-associated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway inhibitors and immunotherapies have provided substantial benefits to patients with melanoma. However, long-term therapeutic efficacy has been limited due to emergence of treatment resistance. Despite the identification of several molecular mechanisms underlying the development of resistant phenotypes, significant progress has still not been made toward the effective treatment of drug-resistant melanoma. Therefore, the identification of new targets and mechanisms driving drug resistance in melanoma represents an unmet medical need. In this study, we performed unbiased RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) and assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing (ATAC-seq) to identify new targets and mechanisms that drive resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors targeting BRAF and MAPK kinase (MEK) in BRAF-mutant melanoma cells. An integrative analysis of ATAC-seq combined with RNA-seq showed that global changes in chromatin accessibility affected the mRNA expression levels of several known and novel genes, which consequently modulated multiple oncogenic signaling pathways to promote resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors in melanoma cells. Many of these genes were also associated with prognosis predictions in melanoma patients. This study resulted in the identification of new genes and signaling pathways that might be targeted to treat MEK or BRAF inhibitors resistant melanoma patients. The present study applied new and advanced approaches to identify unique changes in chromatin accessibility regions that modulate gene expression associated with pathways to promote the development of resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Kumar Reddi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Praveen Guruvaiah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Yvonne J. K. Edwards
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Romi Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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5
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Moosavi F, Giovannetti E, Peters GJ, Firuzi O. Combination of HGF/MET-targeting agents and other therapeutic strategies in cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 160:103234. [PMID: 33497758 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MET receptor has emerged as a druggable target across several human cancers. Agents targeting MET and its ligand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) including small molecules such as crizotinib, tivantinib and cabozantinib or antibodies including rilotumumab and onartuzumab have proven their values in different tumors. Recently, capmatinib was approved for treatment of metastatic lung cancer with MET exon 14 skipping. In this review, we critically examine the current evidence on how HGF/MET combination therapies may take advantage of synergistic effects, overcome primary or acquired drug resistance, target tumor microenvironment, modulate drug metabolism or tackle pharmacokinetic issues. Preclinical and clinical studies on the combination of HGF/MET-targeted agents with conventional chemotherapeutics or molecularly targeted treatments (including EGFR, VEGFR, HER2, RAF/MEK, and PI3K/Akt targeting agents) and also the value of biomarkers are examined. Our deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying successful pharmacological combinations is crucial to find the best personalized treatment regimens for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Moosavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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6
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Huang X, Li E, Shen H, Wang X, Tang T, Zhang X, Xu J, Tang Z, Guo C, Bai X, Liang T. Targeting the HGF/MET Axis in Cancer Therapy: Challenges in Resistance and Opportunities for Improvement. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:152. [PMID: 32435640 PMCID: PMC7218174 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Among hundreds of thousands of signal receptors contributing to oncogenic activation, tumorigenesis, and metastasis, the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor - also called tyrosine kinase MET - is a promising target in cancer therapy as its axis is involved in several different cancer types. It is also associated with poor outcomes and is involved in the development of therapeutic resistance. Several HGF/MET-neutralizing antibodies and MET kinase-specific small molecule inhibitors have been developed, resulting in some context-dependent progress in multiple cancer treatments. Nevertheless, the concomitant therapeutic resistance largely inhibits the translation of such targeted drug candidates into clinical application. Until now, numerous studies have been performed to understand the molecular, cellular, and upstream mechanisms that regulate HGF/MET-targeted drug resistance, further explore novel strategies to reduce the occurrence of resistance, and improve therapeutic efficacy after resistance. Intriguingly, emerging evidence has revealed that, in addition to its conventional function as an oncogene, the HGF/MET axis stands at the crossroads of tumor autophagy, immunity, and microenvironment. Based on current progress, this review summarizes the current challenges and simultaneously proposes future opportunities for HGF/MET targeting for therapeutic cancer interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Enliang Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hang Shen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xun Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tianyu Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaozhen Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zengwei Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chengxiang Guo
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueli Bai
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
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7
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Finn KJ, Martin SE, Settleman J. A Single-Step, High-Dose Selection Scheme Reveals Distinct Mechanisms of Acquired Resistance to Oncogenic Kinase Inhibition in Cancer Cells. Cancer Res 2020; 80:79-90. [PMID: 31641034 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-0729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite the remarkable clinical efficacy demonstrated by molecularly targeted cancer therapeutics, the benefits are typically temporary due to the emergence of acquired drug resistance. This has spurred a massive effort by the cancer research community to identify mechanisms used by cancer cells to evade treatment. Among the various methodologies developed and employed to identify such mechanisms, the most commonly used approach has been to model acquired resistance by exposing cancer cells in culture to gradually increasing concentrations of drug over an extended period of time. Here, we employed a less commonly used variation on this approach, wherein resistant cells are selected by immediately exposing cancer cells to a continuous, high concentration of drug. Using this approach, we isolated clones representing three distinct mechanisms of resistance to inhibition of MET kinase activity from a single clonally derived cancer cell line. The emergent clones had acquired resistance through engagement of alternative receptor tyrosine kinases either through upregulation of FGF3 or HBEGF or increased MAPK signaling through an activating V600E mutation in BRAF. Importantly, these mechanisms were not identified using the conventional "ramp-up" approach in previous studies that employed the same cell line. These results suggest that the particular nature of the selection scheme employed in cell culture modeling studies can determine which potential resistance mechanisms are identified and which ones may be missed, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the specific approach used to model resistance in cultured cells. SIGNIFICANCE: Through modeling resistance to MET kinase inhibition in cultured cancer cells using single-step, high-dose selection, these findings highlight that the specific nature of the selection protocol impacts which resistance mechanisms are identified.See related commentary by Floros et al., p. 25.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth J Finn
- Calico Life Sciences LLC, South San Francisco, California
| | - Scott E Martin
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California
| | - Jeff Settleman
- Calico Life Sciences LLC, South San Francisco, California.
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8
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Fan G. FER mediated HGF-independent regulation of HGFR/MET activates RAC1-PAK1 pathway to potentiate metastasis in ovarian cancer. Small GTPases 2018; 11:155-159. [PMID: 29099290 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2017.1379931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncontrolled metastasis significantly contributes to high lethality of patients suffering from ovarian cancer. To date, the detailed molecular mechanisms which account for ovarian tumor cell spreading and metastasis remain largely unknown. In a recent study, we have demonstrated that aberrantly high expression of the non-receptor tyrosine kinase FER is responsible for ovarian tumor cell metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we indentified Hepatocyte Growth Factor Receptor HGFR/MET as a novel substrate of FER, and through which the kinase FER modulates ovarian cancer cell motility and invasiveness in a ligand-independent manner. We also observed aberrantly high expression of PAK1 kinase in cancer cells, and RNAi-mediated knockdown of FER kinase inactivated the RAC1-PAK1 signaling pathway and decreased metastatic potential of CAOV4 ovarian cancer cells. Overall, our study revealed a previously uncharacterized, pro-metastatic role of the kinase FER in ovarian cancer through the MET-RAC1-PAK1 pathway. Further efforts are essential to investigating beneficial outcomes towards targeting the RAC1-PAK1 signaling pathway in reducing metastatic burden of this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaofeng Fan
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
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9
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Monocarboxylate transporter 1 contributes to growth factor-induced tumor cell migration independent of transporter activity. Oncotarget 2017; 7:32695-706. [PMID: 27127175 PMCID: PMC5078044 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor progression to metastatic disease contributes to the vast majority of incurable cancer. Understanding the processes leading to advanced stage cancer is important for the development of future therapeutic strategies. Here, we establish a connection between tumor cell migration, a prerequisite to metastasis, and monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1). MCT1 transporter activity is known to regulate aspects of tumor progression and, as such, is a clinically relevant target for treating cancer. Knockdown of MCT1 expression caused decreased hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-induced as well as epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced tumor cell scattering and wound healing. Western blot analysis suggested that MCT1 knockdown (KD) hinders signaling through the HGF receptor (c-Met) but not the EGF receptor. Exogenous, membrane-permeable MCT1 substrates were not able to rescue motility in MCT1 KD cells, nor was pharmacologic inhibition of MCT1 able to recapitulate decreased cell motility as seen with MCT1 KD cells, indicating transporter activity of MCT1 was dispensable for EGF- and HGF-induced motility. These results indicate MCT1 expression, independent of transporter activity, is required for growth factor-induced tumor cell motility. The findings presented herein suggest a novel function for MCT1 in tumor progression independent of its role as a monocarboxylate transporter.
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10
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Fan G, Zhang S, Gao Y, Greer PA, Tonks NK. HGF-independent regulation of MET and GAB1 by nonreceptor tyrosine kinase FER potentiates metastasis in ovarian cancer. Genes Dev 2017; 30:1542-57. [PMID: 27401557 PMCID: PMC4949327 DOI: 10.1101/gad.284166.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In this study, Fan et al. report a novel ligand- and autophosphorylation-independent activation of MET through the nonreceptor tyrosine kinase FER. The findings show that levels of FER were elevated in ovarian cancer cell lines and that loss of FER impaired the metastasis of ovarian cancer cells in vivo, providing new insights into signaling events that underlie metastasis in ovarian cancer cells. Ovarian cancer cells disseminate readily within the peritoneal cavity, which promotes metastasis, and are often resistant to chemotherapy. Ovarian cancer patients tend to present with advanced disease, which also limits treatment options; consequently, new therapies are required. The oncoprotein tyrosine kinase MET, which is the receptor for hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), has been implicated in ovarian tumorigenesis and has been the subject of extensive drug development efforts. Here, we report a novel ligand- and autophosphorylation-independent activation of MET through the nonreceptor tyrosine kinase feline sarcoma-related (FER). We demonstrated that the levels of FER were elevated in ovarian cancer cell lines relative to those in immortalized normal surface epithelial cells and that suppression of FER attenuated the motility and invasive properties of these cancer cells. Furthermore, loss of FER impaired the metastasis of ovarian cancer cells in vivo. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that FER phosphorylated a signaling site in MET: Tyr1349. This enhanced activation of RAC1/PAK1 and promoted a kinase-independent scaffolding function that led to recruitment and phosphorylation of GAB1 and the specific activation of the SHP2–ERK signaling pathway. Overall, this analysis provides new insights into signaling events that underlie metastasis in ovarian cancer cells, consistent with a prometastatic role of FER and highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic target for metastatic ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaofeng Fan
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York 11724, USA
| | - Siwei Zhang
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York 11724, USA; Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York 11794, USA
| | - Yan Gao
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario K7L3N6, Canada
| | - Peter A Greer
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario K7L3N6, Canada
| | - Nicholas K Tonks
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York 11724, USA
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11
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Targeting c-MET in gastrointestinal tumours: rationale, opportunities and challenges. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2017; 14:562-576. [PMID: 28374784 DOI: 10.1038/nrclinonc.2017.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Data from many preclinical studies, including those using cellular models of colorectal, gastric, gastro-oesophageal and gastro-oesophageal junction cancers, indicate that the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-hepatocyte growth factor receptor (c-MET) pathway is vital for the growth, survival and invasive potential of gastrointestinal cancers. Following the availability of data from these various studies, and data on c-MET expression as a biomarker that indicates a poor prognosis in patients with gastrointestinal cancer and increased c-MET expression, inhibitors targeting this pathway have entered the clinic in the past decade. However, the design of clinical trials that incorporate the use of HGF/c-MET inhibitors in their most appropriate genetic and molecular context remains crucial. Recognizing and responding to this challenge, the European Commission funded Framework 7 MErCuRIC programme is running a biomarker-enriched clinical trial investigating the efficacy of combined c-MET/MEK inhibition in patients with RAS-mutant or RAS-wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer with aberrant c-MET expression. The design of this trial enables the continued refinement of the predictive biomarker and co-development of companion diagnostics. In this Review, we focus on advances in our understanding of inhibition of the HGF/c-MET pathway in patients with gastro-intestinal cancers, the prominent challenges facing the clinical translation and implementation of agents targeting HGF/c-MET, and discuss the various efforts, and associated obstacles to the discovery and validation of biomarkers that will enable patient stratification in this context.
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12
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Wu Z, Zhang Z, Ge X, Lin Y, Dai C, Chang J, Liu X, Geng R, Wang C, Chen H, Sun M, Guo W, Li J. Identification of short-form RON as a novel intrinsic resistance mechanism for anti-MET therapy in MET-positive gastric cancer. Oncotarget 2016; 6:40519-34. [PMID: 26528757 PMCID: PMC4747350 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the promising results from initial studies, there are significant limitations in the application of MET-targeted therapy in gastric cancer. Intrinsic resistance is one of the major obstacles. The aim of this study is to identify the responsible receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) that determine the unresponsiveness of MET inhibitor in MET-positive gastric cancer. through an RNA-interference-based functional screen targeting most human RTKs, we identified that activation of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) and recepteur d'origine nantais (RON) pathways attenuated MET inhibitor-induced suppression of cell proliferation and migration. Notably, in the two forms of RON pathway activation, only upregulation of short-form RON (sf-RON), but not stimulation of full length RON with macrophage stimulating protein, conferred MET inhibitor resistance in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the profile of the gastric cancer samples observed that sf-RON was frequently upregulated in MET-positive gastric cancer. Our findings indicate that activation of the sf-RON signaling pathway represents a novel mechanism underlying MET inhibitor unresponsiveness. A combination strategy with drugs targeting both RON and MET pathways is believed to improve the efficacy of MET-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Ge
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ying Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Congqi Dai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jinjia Chang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xinyang Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ruixuan Geng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Chenchen Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Huan Chen
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Menghong Sun
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Weijian Guo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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13
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Van Der Steen N, Giovannetti E, Pauwels P, Peters GJ, Hong DS, Cappuzzo F, Hirsch FR, Rolfo C. cMET Exon 14 Skipping: From the Structure to the Clinic. J Thorac Oncol 2016; 11:1423-32. [PMID: 27223456 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2016.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The abnormal stimulation of the multiple signal transduction pathways downstream of the receptor tyrosine kinase mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (cMET) promotes cellular transformation, tumor motility, and invasion. Therefore, cMET has been the focus of prognostic and therapeutic studies in different tumor types, including non-small cell lung cancer. In particular, several cMET inhibitors have been developed as innovative therapeutic candidates and are currently under investigation in clinical trials. However, one of the challenges in establishing effective targeted treatments against cMET remains the accurate identification of biomarkers for the selection of responsive subsets of patients. Recently, splice site mutations have been discovered in cMET that lead to the skipping of exon 14, impairing the breakdown of the receptor. Patients with NSCLC who are carrying this splice variant typically overexpress the cMET receptor and show a response to small molecule inhibitors of cMET. Here, we review the main differences at the structural level between the wild-type and the splice variants of cMET and their influence on cMET signaling. We clarify the reason why this variant responds to small molecule inhibitors and their prognostic/predictive role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Van Der Steen
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium; Center for Oncological Research, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Italian Association for Cancer Research Start-Up Unit, University of Pisa, Hospital of Cisanello, Pisa, Italy
| | - Patrick Pauwels
- Department of Pathology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium; Center for Oncological Research, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David S Hong
- Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Fred R Hirsch
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Christian Rolfo
- Center for Oncological Research, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium; Phase I Early Clinical Trials Unit, Oncology Department, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium.
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14
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Gray AL, Coleman DT, Castore RF, Mohyeldin MM, El Sayed KA, Cardelli JA. Isothiocyanatostilbenes as novel c-Met inhibitors. Oncotarget 2015; 6:41180-93. [PMID: 26543230 PMCID: PMC4747398 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatocyte growth factor receptor (HGFR or c-Met) is a driver of multiple cancer subtypes. While there are several c-Met inhibitors in development, few have been approved for clinical use, warranting the need for continued research and development of c-Met targeting therapeutic modalities. The research presented here demonstrates a particular class of compounds known as isothiocyanatostilbenes can act as c-Met inhibitors in multiple cancer cell lines. Specifically, we found that 4,4′-Diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (DIDS) and 4,4′-Diisothiocyanatodihydrostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (H2DIDS) had c-Met inhibitory effective doses in the low micromolar range while 4-acetamido-4′-isothiocyanatostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (SITS) and 4,4′-dinitrostilbene-2, 2′-disulfonic acid (DNDS) exhibited IC50s 100 to 1000 fold higher. These compounds displayed much greater selectivity for inhibiting c-Met activation compared to similar receptor tyrosine kinases. In addition, DIDS and H2DIDS reduced hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-induced, but not epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced, cell scattering, wound healing, and 3-dimensional (3D) proliferation of tumor cell spheroids. In-cell and cell-free assays suggested that DIDS and H2DIDS can inhibit and reverse c-Met phosphorylation, similar to SU11274. Additional data demonstrated that DIDS is tolerable in vivo. These data provide preliminary support for future studies examining DIDS, H2DIDS, and derivatives as potential c-Met therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alana L Gray
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA.,Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - David T Coleman
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA.,Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Reneau F Castore
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA.,Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | | | | | - James A Cardelli
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA.,Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
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