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Devarajan E, Davis RE, Beird HC, Wang WL, Jensen VB, Jayakumar A, Leung CH, Lin HY, Wu CC, Ihezie SA, Tsai JW, Futreal PA, Lewis VO. Targeting IL-11R/EZH2 signaling axis as a therapeutic strategy for osteosarcoma lung metastases. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:232. [PMID: 38886296 PMCID: PMC11183017 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01056-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung metastases are the primary cause of death for osteosarcoma (OS) patients. We recently validated interleukin-11 receptor α (IL-11Rα) as a molecular target for the inhibition of OS lung metastases. Since there is no clinically approved antibody against this receptor, we sought to identify downstream targets that mediate the effects of IL-11Rα signaling. We used shRNA to deplete IL-11Rα from OS cells; as a complementary approach, we added IL-11 exogenously to OS cells. The resulting changes in gene expression identified EZH2 as a downstream candidate. This was confirmed by knockdown of IL-11Rα in OS cells, which led to increased expression of genes repressed by histone methyltransferase EZH2, including members of the WNT pathway, a known target pathway of EZH2. Exogenous IL-11 increased the global levels of histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation, evidence of EZH2 activation. Treatment with the EZH2 inhibitor GSK126 significantly reduced in vitro proliferation and increased cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis, which were partially mediated through the WNT pathway. In vivo, treatment of an orthotopic nude mouse model of OS with GSK126 inhibited lung metastatic growth and prolonged survival. In addition, significantly shorter recurrence-free survival was seen in OS patients with high levels of EZH2 in their primary tumors (P < .05). This suggests that IL-11Rα promotes OS lung metastasis via activation of EZH2. Thus, blocking EZH2 activity may be an effective strategy for inhibiting OS lung metastasis and improving prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eswaran Devarajan
- Department of Orthopaedic Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 1448, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - R Eric Davis
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hannah C Beird
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wei-Lien Wang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - V Behrana Jensen
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Arumugam Jayakumar
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cheuk Hong Leung
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Heather Y Lin
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chia-Chin Wu
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stephanie A Ihezie
- McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jen-Wei Tsai
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - P Andrew Futreal
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Valerae O Lewis
- Department of Orthopaedic Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 1448, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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2
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Soleiman M, Fathi-Roudsari M, Khajeh K, Maghsoudi A. Optimization of Epigenetic Modifier Drug Combination for Synergistic Effect against Glioblastoma Multiform Cancer Cell Lines. Cancer Invest 2024; 42:319-332. [PMID: 38695671 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2024.2345183] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is a frequent class of malignant brain tumors. Epigenetic therapy, especially with synergistic combinations is highly paid attention for aggressive solid tumors like GBM. Here, RSM optimization has been used to increase the efficient arrest of U87 and U251 cell lines due to synergistic effects. Cell lines were treated with SAHA, 5-Azacytidine, GSK-126, and PTC-209 individually and then RSM was used to find most effective combinations. Results showed that optimized combinations significantly reduce cell survival and induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in both cell lines. Expression of cyclin B1 and cyclin D1 were decreased while caspase3 increased expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morvarid Soleiman
- Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrnoosh Fathi-Roudsari
- Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khosro Khajeh
- Faculty of Biological Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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3
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Ozgun G, Yaras T, Akman B, Özden-Yılmaz G, Landman N, Karakülah G, van Lohuizen M, Senturk S, Erkek-Ozhan S. Retinoids and EZH2 inhibitors cooperate to orchestrate anti-oncogenic effects on bladder cancer cells. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:537-551. [PMID: 38233533 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00725-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The highly mutated nature of bladder cancers harboring mutations in chromatin regulatory genes opposing Polycomb-mediated repression highlights the importance of targeting EZH2 in bladder cancer. Furthermore, the critical role of the retinoic acid signaling pathway in the development and homeostasis of the urothelium, and the anti-oncogenic effects of retinoids are well established. Therefore, our aim is to simultaneously target EZH2 and retinoic acid signaling in bladder cancer to potentiate the therapeutic response. Here we report that this coordinated targeting strategy stimulates an anti-oncogenic profile, as reflected by inducing a synergistic reduction in cell viability that was associated with increased apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in a cooperative and orchestrated manner. This study characterized anti-oncogenic transcriptional reprogramming centered on the transcriptional regulator CHOP by stimulating the endoplasmic reticulum stress response. We further portrayed a molecular mechanism whereby EZH2 maintains H3K27me3-mediated repression of a subset of genes involved in unfolded protein responses, reflecting the molecular mechanism underlying this co-targeting strategy. These findings highlight the importance of co-targeting the EZH2 and retinoic acid pathway in bladder cancers and encourage the design of novel treatments employing retinoids coupled with EZH2 inhibitors in bladder carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gizem Ozgun
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Tutku Yaras
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Burcu Akman
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gülden Özden-Yılmaz
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Nick Landman
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gökhan Karakülah
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Maarten van Lohuizen
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Serif Senturk
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
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4
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Wozniak M, Czyz M. lncRNAs-EZH2 interaction as promising therapeutic target in cutaneous melanoma. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1170026. [PMID: 37325482 PMCID: PMC10265524 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1170026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer with increasing incidence worldwide. Despite a great improvement of diagnostics and treatment of melanoma patients, this disease is still a serious clinical problem. Therefore, novel druggable targets are in focus of research. EZH2 is a component of the PRC2 protein complex that mediates epigenetic silencing of target genes. Several mutations activating EZH2 have been identified in melanoma, which contributes to aberrant gene silencing during tumor progression. Emerging evidence indicates that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are molecular "address codes" for EZH2 silencing specificity, and targeting lncRNAs-EZH2 interaction may slow down the progression of many solid cancers, including melanoma. This review summarizes current knowledge regarding the involvement of lncRNAs in EZH2-mediated gene silencing in melanoma. The possibility of blocking lncRNAs-EZH2 interaction in melanoma as a novel therapeutic option and plausible controversies and drawbacks of this approach are also briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Wozniak
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Czyz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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5
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Kuser-Abali G, Zhang Y, Szeto P, Zhao P, Masoumi-Moghaddam S, Fedele CG, Leece I, Huang C, Cheung JG, Ameratunga M, Noguchi F, Andrews MC, Wong NC, Schittenhelm RB, Shackleton M. UHRF1/UBE2L6/UBR4-mediated ubiquitination regulates EZH2 abundance and thereby melanocytic differentiation phenotypes in melanoma. Oncogene 2023; 42:1360-1373. [PMID: 36906655 PMCID: PMC10121471 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02631-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Cellular heterogeneity in cancer is linked to disease progression and therapy response, although mechanisms regulating distinct cellular states within tumors are not well understood. We identified melanin pigment content as a major source of cellular heterogeneity in melanoma and compared RNAseq data from high-pigmented (HPCs) and low-pigmented melanoma cells (LPCs), suggesting EZH2 as a master regulator of these states. EZH2 protein was found to be upregulated in LPCs and inversely correlated with melanin deposition in pigmented patient melanomas. Surprisingly, conventional EZH2 methyltransferase inhibitors, GSK126 and EPZ6438, had no effect on LPC survival, clonogenicity and pigmentation, despite fully inhibiting methyltransferase activity. In contrast, EZH2 silencing by siRNA or degradation by DZNep or MS1943 inhibited growth of LPCs and induced HPCs. As the proteasomal inhibitor MG132 induced EZH2 protein in HPCs, we evaluated ubiquitin pathway proteins in HPC vs LPCs. Biochemical assays and animal studies demonstrated that in LPCs, the E2-conjugating enzyme UBE2L6 depletes EZH2 protein in cooperation with UBR4, an E3 ligase, via ubiquitination at EZH2's K381 residue, and is downregulated in LPCs by UHRF1-mediated CpG methylation. Targeting UHRF1/UBE2L6/UBR4-mediated regulation of EZH2 offers potential for modulating the activity of this oncoprotein in contexts in which conventional EZH2 methyltransferase inhibitors are ineffective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamze Kuser-Abali
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Youfang Zhang
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Pacman Szeto
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peinan Zhao
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | - Isobel Leece
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Cheng Huang
- Monash Proteomics and Metabolomics Facility and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jen G Cheung
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Malaka Ameratunga
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Fumihito Noguchi
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Miles C Andrews
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nicholas C Wong
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Monash Bioinformatics Platform, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ralf B Schittenhelm
- Monash Proteomics and Metabolomics Facility and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark Shackleton
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. .,Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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6
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Guo Y, Yu Y, Wang GG. Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 in Oncology. Cancer Treat Res 2023; 190:273-320. [PMID: 38113005 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-45654-1_9] [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] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Dynamic regulation of the chromatin state by Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) provides an important mean for epigenetic gene control that can profoundly influence normal development and cell lineage specification. PRC2 and PRC2-induced methylation of histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27) are critically involved in a wide range of DNA-templated processes, which at least include transcriptional repression and gene imprinting, organization of three-dimensional chromatin structure, DNA replication and DNA damage response and repair. PRC2-based genome regulation often goes wrong in diseases, notably cancer. This chapter discusses about different modes-of-action through which PRC2 and EZH2, a catalytic subunit of PRC2, mediate (epi)genomic and transcriptomic regulation. We will also discuss about how alteration or mutation of the PRC2 core or axillary component promotes oncogenesis, how post-translational modification regulates functionality of EZH2 and PRC2, and how PRC2 and other epigenetic pathways crosstalk. Lastly, we will briefly touch on advances in targeting EZH2 and PRC2 dependence as cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Yao Yu
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Gang Greg Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
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7
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Zob DL, Augustin I, Caba L, Panzaru MC, Popa S, Popa AD, Florea L, Gorduza EV. Genomics and Epigenomics in the Molecular Biology of Melanoma-A Prerequisite for Biomarkers Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010716. [PMID: 36614156 PMCID: PMC9821083 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a common and aggressive tumor originating from melanocytes. The increasing incidence of cutaneous melanoma in recent last decades highlights the need for predictive biomarkers studies. Melanoma development is a complex process, involving the interplay of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Genetic aberrations include BRAF, NRAS, NF1, MAP2K1/MAP2K2, KIT, GNAQ, GNA11, CDKN2A, TERT mutations, and translocations of kinases. Epigenetic alterations involve microRNAs, non-coding RNAs, histones modifications, and abnormal DNA methylations. Genetic aberrations and epigenetic marks are important as biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of disease recurrence, and for therapeutic targets. This review summarizes our current knowledge of the genomic and epigenetic changes in melanoma and discusses the latest scientific information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Luminita Zob
- Department of Medical Oncology, AI. Trestioreanu Institute of Oncology, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Iolanda Augustin
- Department of Medical Oncology, AI. Trestioreanu Institute of Oncology, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.A.); (L.C.)
| | - Lavinia Caba
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.A.); (L.C.)
| | - Monica-Cristina Panzaru
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Setalia Popa
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alina Delia Popa
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Laura Florea
- Department of Nephrology-Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Eusebiu Vlad Gorduza
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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8
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Karami Fath M, Azargoonjahromi A, Soofi A, Almasi F, Hosseinzadeh S, Khalili S, Sheikhi K, Ferdousmakan S, Owrangi S, Fahimi M, Zalpoor H, Nabi Afjadi M, Payandeh Z, Pourzardosht N. Current understanding of epigenetics role in melanoma treatment and resistance. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:313. [PMID: 36224606 PMCID: PMC9555085 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02738-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer resulting from genetic mutations in melanocytes. Several factors have been considered to be involved in melanoma progression, including genetic alteration, processes of damaged DNA repair, and changes in mechanisms of cell growth and proliferation. Epigenetics is the other factor with a crucial role in melanoma development. Epigenetic changes have become novel targets for treating patients suffering from melanoma. These changes can alter the expression of microRNAs and their interaction with target genes, which involves cell growth, differentiation, or even death. Given these circumstances, we conducted the present review to discuss the melanoma risk factors and represent the current knowledge about the factors related to its etiopathogenesis. Moreover, various epigenetic pathways, which are involved in melanoma progression, treatment, and chemo-resistance, as well as employed epigenetic factors as a solution to the problems, will be discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Karami Fath
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Asma Soofi
- Department of Physical Chemistry, School of Chemistry, College of Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Almasi
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Lab, Department of Microbial Biotechnology, School of Biology and Center of Excellence in Phylogeny of Living Organisms, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahnaz Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Saeed Khalili
- Department of Biology Sciences, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Sheikhi
- School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Kurdistan, Iran
| | - Saeid Ferdousmakan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Nargund College of Pharmacy, Bangalore, 560085 India
| | - Soroor Owrangi
- Student Research Committe, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | | | - Hamidreza Zalpoor
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Nabi Afjadi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Payandeh
- Department Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division Medical Inflammation Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Navid Pourzardosht
- Biochemistry Department, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
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9
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Krossa I, Strub T, Aplin AE, Ballotti R, Bertolotto C. Lysine Methyltransferase NSD1 and Cancers: Any Role in Melanoma? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194865. [PMID: 36230787 PMCID: PMC9563040 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Epigenetic events, which comprise post-translational modifications of histone tails or DNA methylation, control gene expression by altering chromatin structure without change in the DNA sequence. Histone tails modifications are driven by specific cellular enzymes such as histone methyltransferases or histone acetylases, which play a key role in regulating diverse biological processes. Their alteration may have consequences on growth and tumorigenesis. Abstract Epigenetic regulations, that comprise histone modifications and DNA methylation, are essential to processes as diverse as development and cancer. Among the histone post-translational modifications, lysine methylation represents one of the most important dynamic marks. Here, we focused on methyltransferases of the nuclear binding SET domain 1 (NSD) family, that catalyze the mono- and di-methylation of histone H3 lysine 36. We review the loss of function mutations of NSD1 in humans that are the main cause of SOTOS syndrome, a disease associated with an increased risk of developing cancer. We then report the role of NSD1 in triggering tumor suppressive or promoter functions according to the tissue context and we discuss the role of NSD1 in melanoma. Finally, we examine the ongoing efforts to target NSD1 signaling in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imène Krossa
- Université Côte d’Azur, 06100 Nice, France
- Team 1, Biology and Pathologies of melanocytes, Inserm, Equipe labellisée Ligue 2020 and Equipe labellisée ARC 2022, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, 06200 Nice, France
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (C.B.)
| | - Thomas Strub
- Université Côte d’Azur, 06100 Nice, France
- Team 1, Biology and Pathologies of melanocytes, Inserm, Equipe labellisée Ligue 2020 and Equipe labellisée ARC 2022, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Andrew E. Aplin
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Robert Ballotti
- Université Côte d’Azur, 06100 Nice, France
- Team 1, Biology and Pathologies of melanocytes, Inserm, Equipe labellisée Ligue 2020 and Equipe labellisée ARC 2022, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Corine Bertolotto
- Université Côte d’Azur, 06100 Nice, France
- Team 1, Biology and Pathologies of melanocytes, Inserm, Equipe labellisée Ligue 2020 and Equipe labellisée ARC 2022, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, 06200 Nice, France
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (C.B.)
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10
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Yoon JH, Byun H, Ivan C, Calin GA, Jung D, Lee S. lncRNAs UC.145 and PRKG1-AS1 Determine the Functional Output of DKK1 in Regulating the Wnt Signaling Pathway in Gastric Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102369. [PMID: 35625973 PMCID: PMC9140071 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
DKK1 inhibits the canonical Wnt signaling pathway that is known to be involved in various cancers. However, whether DKK1 acts as an oncogene or tumor suppressor gene remains controversial. Furthermore, the DKK1-regulating mechanism in gastric cancer has not yet been defined. The aim of this study was to explore whether the ultraconserved region UC.145 regulates epigenetic changes in DKK1 expression in gastric cancer. Microarray analysis revealed that UC.145 exhibited the highest binding affinity to EZH2, a histone methyltransferase. The effects of UC.145 inactivation were assessed in gastric cancer cell lines using siRNA. The results indicated that UC.145 triggers DKK1 methylation via interaction with EZH2 and is involved in the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Additionally, interaction between UC.145 and another long non-coding RNA adjacent to DKK1, PRKG1-AS1, induced a synergistic effect on Wnt signaling. The regulation of these three genes was closely associated with patient overall survival. Inactivation of UC.145 induced apoptosis and inhibited the growth and migratory, invasive, and colony-forming abilities of gastric cancer cells. The study findings provide insights into Wnt signaling in gastric cancer and support UC.145 as a potential novel predictive biomarker for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-ho Yoon
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, Seoul 03722, Korea; (J.-h.Y.); (H.B.)
| | - Hyojoo Byun
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, Seoul 03722, Korea; (J.-h.Y.); (H.B.)
| | - Cristina Ivan
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - George A. Calin
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Dahyun Jung
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, Seoul 03722, Korea; (J.-h.Y.); (H.B.)
- Correspondence: (D.J.); (S.L.); Tel.: +82-2-2228-1996 (S.L.)
| | - Sangkil Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, Seoul 03722, Korea; (J.-h.Y.); (H.B.)
- Correspondence: (D.J.); (S.L.); Tel.: +82-2-2228-1996 (S.L.)
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11
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Liang R, Tomita D, Sasaki Y, Ginn J, Michino M, Huggins DJ, Baxt L, Kargman S, Shahid M, Aso K, Duggan M, Stamford AW, DeStanchina E, Liverton N, Meinke PT, Foley MA, Phillips RE. A Chemical Strategy toward Novel Brain-Penetrant EZH2 Inhibitors. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:377-387. [PMID: 35300079 PMCID: PMC8919293 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.1c00448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant gene-silencing through dysregulation of polycomb protein activity has emerged as an important oncogenic mechanism in cancer, implicating polycomb proteins as important therapeutic targets. Recently, an inhibitor targeting EZH2, the methyltransferase component of PRC2, received U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval following promising clinical responses in cancer patients. However, the current array of EZH2 inhibitors have poor brain penetrance, limiting their use in patients with central nervous system malignancies, a number of which have been shown to be sensitive to EZH2 inhibition. To address this need, we have identified a chemical strategy, based on computational modeling of pyridone-containing EZH2 inhibitor scaffolds, to minimize P-glycoprotein activity, and here we report the first brain-penetrant EZH2 inhibitor, TDI-6118 (compound 5). Additionally, in the course of our attempts to optimize this compound, we discovered TDI-11904 (compound 21), a novel, highly potent, and peripherally active EZH2 inhibitor based on a 7 member ring structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Liang
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Daisuke Tomita
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Yusuke Sasaki
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - John Ginn
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Mayako Michino
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - David J Huggins
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States.,Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Leigh Baxt
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Stacia Kargman
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Maaz Shahid
- Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,Epigenetics Program, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Kazuyoshi Aso
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Mark Duggan
- LifeSci Consulting, LLC., 18243 SE Ridgeview Drive, Tequesta, Florida 33469, United States
| | - Andrew W Stamford
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Elisa DeStanchina
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Nigel Liverton
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Peter T Meinke
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Michael A Foley
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, 413 East 69th Street, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Richard E Phillips
- Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,Epigenetics Program, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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12
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Tseng CF, Chen LT, Wang HD, Liu YH, Shiah SG. Transcriptional suppression of Dicer by HOXB-AS3/EZH2 complex dictates Sorafenib resistance and cancer stemness. Cancer Sci 2022; 113:1601-1612. [PMID: 35253323 PMCID: PMC9128169 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib is multi-kinase inhibitor for the standard treatment of advanced liver cancer patients. However, acquired resistance to sorafenib is responsible for a poor prognosis. Therefore, uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying sorafenib sensitization can provide biomarkers for sorafenib treatment and improve sorafenib activity in a precise medication. Here, we report that epigenetic suppression of Dicer by HOXB-AS3/EZH2 complex is responsible for sorafenib resistance. We observed that Dicer expression is inversely correlated with EZH2 levels, HOXB-AS3 expression, sorafenib resistance and cancer stem cell properties in liver cancer patients. Furthermore, ectopic expression of Dicer induced liver cancer cells re-sensitization to sorafenib. Mechanistically, we found HOXB-AS3 physically interacts with EZH2 and recruits EZH2 to the Dicer promoter, resulting in epigenetic suppression of Dicer expression. These findings reveal that HOXB-AS3/EZH2 complex-mediated Dicer suppression plays an important role in sorafenib resistance and cancer stemness and provide potential therapeutic strategies for diagnosing and treating liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Feng Tseng
- Graduate Program of Biotechnology in Medicine, NTHU & NHRI.,Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.,National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli Country, Taiwan
| | - Li-Tzong Chen
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli Country, Taiwan.,Department of Oncology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital and Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Horng-Dar Wang
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hong Liu
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.,National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli Country, Taiwan
| | - Shine-Gwo Shiah
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli Country, Taiwan.,Program in Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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13
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Inhibition of the deubiquitinating enzyme USP47 as a novel targeted therapy for hematologic malignancies expressing mutant EZH2. Leukemia 2022; 36:1048-1057. [PMID: 35034955 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01494-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Activating mutations in EZH2, the catalytic component of PRC2, promote cell proliferation, tumorigenesis, and metastasis through enzymatic or non-enzymatic activity. The EZH2-Y641 gain-of-function mutation is one of the most significant in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Although EZH2 kinase inhibitors, such as EPZ-6438, provide clinical benefit, certain cancer cells are resistant to the enzymatic inhibition of EZH2 because of the inability to functionally target mutant EZH2, or because of cells' dependence on the non-histone methyltransferase activity of EZH2. Consequently, destroying mutant EZH2 protein may be more effective in targeting EZH2 mutant cancers that are dependent on the non-catalytic activity of EZH2. Here, using extensive selectivity profiling, combined with genetic and animal model studies, we identified USP47 as a novel regulator of mutant EZH2. Inhibition of USP47 would be anticipated to block the function of mutated EZH2 through induction of EZH2 degradation by promoting its ubiquitination. Moreover, targeting of USP47 leads to death of mutant EZH2-positive cells in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, we propose targeting USP47 with a small molecule inhibitor as a novel potential therapy for DLBCL and other hematologic malignancies characterized by mutant EZH2 expression.
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14
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Czegle I, Gray AL, Wang M, Liu Y, Wang J, Wappler-Guzzetta EA. Mitochondria and Their Relationship with Common Genetic Abnormalities in Hematologic Malignancies. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:1351. [PMID: 34947882 PMCID: PMC8707674 DOI: 10.3390/life11121351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematologic malignancies are known to be associated with numerous cytogenetic and molecular genetic changes. In addition to morphology, immunophenotype, cytochemistry and clinical characteristics, these genetic alterations are typically required to diagnose myeloid, lymphoid, and plasma cell neoplasms. According to the current World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Tumors of Hematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues, numerous genetic changes are highlighted, often defining a distinct subtype of a disease, or providing prognostic information. This review highlights how these molecular changes can alter mitochondrial bioenergetics, cell death pathways, mitochondrial dynamics and potentially be related to mitochondrial genetic changes. A better understanding of these processes emphasizes potential novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibolya Czegle
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Austin L. Gray
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.L.G.); (Y.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Minjing Wang
- Independent Researcher, Diamond Bar, CA 91765, USA;
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.L.G.); (Y.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.L.G.); (Y.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Edina A. Wappler-Guzzetta
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.L.G.); (Y.L.); (J.W.)
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15
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Khaddour K, Maahs L, Avila-Rodriguez AM, Maamar Y, Samaan S, Ansstas G. Melanoma Targeted Therapies beyond BRAF-Mutant Melanoma: Potential Druggable Mutations and Novel Treatment Approaches. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5847. [PMID: 34831002 PMCID: PMC8616477 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanomas exhibit the highest rate of somatic mutations among all different types of cancers (with the exception of BCC and SCC). The accumulation of a multimode of mutations in the driver oncogenes are responsible for the proliferative, invasive, and aggressive nature of melanomas. High-resolution and high-throughput technology has led to the identification of distinct mutational signatures and their downstream alterations in several key pathways that contribute to melanomagenesis. This has enabled the development of individualized treatments by targeting specific molecular alterations that are vital for cancer cell survival, which has resulted in improved outcomes in several cancers, including melanomas. To date, BRAF and MEK inhibitors remain the only approved targeted therapy with a high level of evidence in BRAFV600E/K mutant melanomas. The lack of approved precision drugs in melanomas, relative to other cancers, despite harboring one of the highest rates of somatic mutations, advocates for further research to unveil effective therapeutics. In this review, we will discuss potential druggable mutations and the ongoing research of novel individualized treatment approaches targeting non-BRAF mutations in melanomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karam Khaddour
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (L.M.); (A.M.A.-R.)
| | - Lucas Maahs
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (L.M.); (A.M.A.-R.)
| | - Ana Maria Avila-Rodriguez
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (L.M.); (A.M.A.-R.)
| | - Yazan Maamar
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Tishreen Lattakia, Lattakia 2217, Syria;
| | - Sami Samaan
- Department of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon;
| | - George Ansstas
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA
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16
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Dobre EG, Constantin C, Costache M, Neagu M. Interrogating Epigenome toward Personalized Approach in Cutaneous Melanoma. J Pers Med 2021; 11:901. [PMID: 34575678 PMCID: PMC8467841 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11090901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic alterations have emerged as essential contributors in the pathogenesis of various human diseases, including cutaneous melanoma (CM). Unlike genetic changes, epigenetic modifications are highly dynamic and reversible and thus easy to regulate. Here, we present a comprehensive review of the latest research findings on the role of genetic and epigenetic alterations in CM initiation and development. We believe that a better understanding of how aberrant DNA methylation and histone modifications, along with other molecular processes, affect the genesis and clinical behavior of CM can provide the clinical management of this disease a wide range of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as potential therapeutic targets that can be used to prevent or abrogate drug resistance. We will also approach the modalities by which these epigenetic alterations can be used to customize the therapeutic algorithms in CM, the current status of epi-therapies, and the preliminary results of epigenetic and traditional combinatorial pharmacological approaches in this fatal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena-Georgiana Dobre
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91–95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (M.C.); (M.N.)
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Immunology Department, “Victor Babes” National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
- Pathology Department, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marieta Costache
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91–95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (M.C.); (M.N.)
| | - Monica Neagu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91–95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (M.C.); (M.N.)
- Immunology Department, “Victor Babes” National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
- Pathology Department, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
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17
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Emran AA, Tseng HY, Gunatilake D, Cook SJ, Ahmed F, Wang S, Hersey P, Gallagher SJ, Tiffen JC. A Combination of Epigenetic BET and CDK9 Inhibitors for Treatment of Human Melanoma. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 141:2238-2249.e12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2020.12.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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18
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Sun Y, Hou Z, Luo B, Li C, Liu J, Liu J, Tang J, Yao G. Circular RNA circRNA_0082835 promotes progression and lymphatic metastasis of primary melanoma by sponging microRNA miRNA-429. Bioengineered 2021; 12:4159-4173. [PMID: 34288815 PMCID: PMC8806410 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1953822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
To identify how circular RNA circRNA_0082835 impacts melanoma cells and lymphatic metastasis to observe whether it exerts effects through its action mechanism of sponging microRNA miR-429. Clinical baseline information was collected, and clinical samples were used for detection on circRNA_0082835 and EZH2. The expression of circRNA_0082835, EZH2, and miR-429 was detected by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). Cell proliferation was tested with cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8). Flow cytometry was applied to examination of cell cycle levels. Cell invasion and migration were observed by transwell and wound healing. The expression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, cell cycle and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker proteins was analyzed by western blot. Dual-luciferase determined the binding of miR-429 and circ_0082835. As a result, the expression of circRNA_0082835 was increased and that of miR-429 was decreased with the increase in lymphatic metastasis level. CircRNA_0082835 expression was downregulated by circ_0082835 interference, upregulated by EZH2 interference and also downregulated after transfection of both shRNA-circ_0082835 and shRNA-EZH2. Inhibiting circ_0082835 and EZH2 suppressed the proliferation, invasion and migration, regulated the cell cycle levels, inhibited Wnt/β-catenin and attenuated EMT in melanoma cells. Inhibition of circ_0082835 and/or EZH2 elevated miR-429 expression. The binding among miR-429 and circ_0082835 was verified. MiR-429 inhibitor reversed the effect of circ_0082835 interference while having no significant impact on EZH2. In conclusion, circRNA_0082835 sponges miR-429 to affect the anti-tumor effect of miR-429 in primary melanoma and lymphatic metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yute Sun
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Zuoqiong Hou
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Binlin Luo
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Chujun Li
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Jinfang Liu
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Jianlan Liu
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Jian Tang
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Gang Yao
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China
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19
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Gao B, Liu X, Li Z, Zhao L, Pan Y. Overexpression of EZH2/NSD2 Histone Methyltransferase Axis Predicts Poor Prognosis and Accelerates Tumor Progression in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 10:600514. [PMID: 33665162 PMCID: PMC7921704 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.600514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Two histone methyltransferases, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and nuclear SET domain-containing 2 (NSD2), are aberrantly expressed in several types of human cancers. However, the regulatory relationship between EZH2 and NSD2 and their prognostic values in breast cancer (BC) have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated that EZH2 and NSD2 were overexpressed in BC compared with benign lesions and normal tissues using tissue microarray, immunohistochemistry, and bioinformatic databases. Both EZH2 and NSD2 expression were associated with pathological grade of tumor and lymph node metastasis. A comprehensive survival analysis using Kaplan-Meier Plotter database indicated that EZH2 expression was negatively correlated with relapse-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), and postprogression survival (PPS) in 3951 BC patients, and NSD2 expression was negatively correlated with RFS and DMFS. Notably, EZH2 and NSD2 expression were coordinately higher in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) than that in other subtypes. Stable knockdown of EZH2 using lentiviral shRNA vector significantly reduced the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468, and downregulated NSD2 expression as well as the levels of H3K27me3 and H3K36me2, two histone methylation markers catalyzed by EZH2 and NSD2, respectively. By contrast, overexpression of EZH2 using adenovirus vector displayed an inverse phenotype. Furthermore, knockdown of NSD2 in EZH2-overexpressing cells could dramatically attenuate EZH2-mediated oncogenic effects. Bioinformatic analysis further revealed the function and pathway enrichments of co-expressed genes and interactive genes of EZH2/NSD2 axis, suggesting that EZH2/NSD2 axis was associated with cell division, mitotic nuclear division and transition of mitotic cell cycle in TNBC. Taken together, EZH2/NSD2 axis may act as a predictive marker for poor prognosis and accelerate the progression of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Gao
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Xiumin Liu
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Zhengjin Li
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Lixian Zhao
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Yun Pan
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, China
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20
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Pyziak K, Sroka-Porada A, Rzymski T, Dulak J, Łoboda A. Potential of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 inhibitors for the treatment of SWI/SNF mutant cancers and tumor microenvironment modulation. Drug Dev Res 2021; 82:730-753. [PMID: 33565092 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a catalytic component of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), is commonly overexpressed or mutated in many cancer types, both of hematological and solid nature. Till now, plenty of EZH2 small molecule inhibitors have been developed and some of them have already been tested in clinical trials. Most of these inhibitors, however, are effective only in limited cases in the context of EZH2 gain-of-function mutated tumors such as lymphomas. Other cancer types with aberrant EZH2 expression and function require alternative approaches for successful treatment. One possibility is to exploit synthetic lethal strategy, which is based on the phenomenon that concurrent loss of two genes is detrimental but the deletion of either of them leaves cell viable. In the context of EZH2/PRC2, the most promising synthetic lethal target seems to be SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable chromatin remodeling complex (SWI/SNF), which is known to counteract PRC2 functions. SWI/SNF is heavily involved in carcinogenesis and its subunits have been found mutated in approximately 20% of tumors of different kinds. In the current review, we summarize the existing knowledge of synthetic lethal relationships between EZH2/PRC2 and components of the SWI/SNF complex and discuss in detail the potential application of existing EZH2 inhibitors in cancer patients harboring mutations in SWI/SNF proteins. We also highlight recent discoveries of EZH2 involvement in tumor microenvironment regulation and consequences for future therapies. Although clinical studies are limited, the fundamental research might help to understand which patients are most likely to benefit from therapies using EZH2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Pyziak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland.,Biology R&D, Ryvu Therapeutics S.A., Kraków, Poland
| | | | | | - Józef Dulak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Łoboda
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
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21
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Pu FF, Shi DY, Chen T, Liu YX, Zhong BL, Zhang ZC, Liu WJ, Wu Q, Wang BC, Shao ZW, He TC, Liu JX. SP1-induced long non-coding RNA SNHG6 facilitates the carcinogenesis of chondrosarcoma through inhibiting KLF6 by recruiting EZH2. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:59. [PMID: 33431838 PMCID: PMC7801621 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03352-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Small nucleolar RNA host gene 6 (SNHG6) is a newly discovered long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), while the regulatory mechanism of SNHG6 in chondrosarcoma is largely unknown. Here we found that SNHG6 expression was upregulated and showed positive correlation with the progression of chondrosarcoma. Functional assays demonstrated that SNHG6 was required for the proliferation, migration, and invasion of chondrosarcoma cells. Mechanistic study revealed that SNHG6 could recruit EZH2 and maintain high level of H3K27me3 to repress the transcription of tumor-suppressor genes, including KLF6. KLF6 was found to bind to the promoter region of SP1 and restrained its transcription, while SP1 could be recruited to the promoter region of SNHG6 and promoted its transcription to form a positive loop. In summary, this study reveals that SP1-induced SNHG6 forms a positive loop to facilitate the carcinogenesis of chondrosarcoma through the suppression of KLF6 by recruiting EZH2, which manifests the oncogenic function of SNHG6 in chondrosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Fei Pu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - De-Yao Shi
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Xuan Liu
- No.1 Middle School Attached to Central China Normal University, 430223, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Bin-Long Zhong
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Cai Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Jian Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Bai-Chuan Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Zeng-Wu Shao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Tong-Chuan He
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, MC3079, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Jian-Xiang Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China.
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22
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Simeone N, Frezza AM, Zaffaroni N, Stacchiotti S. Tazemetostat for advanced epithelioid sarcoma: current status and future perspectives. Future Oncol 2020; 17:1253-1263. [PMID: 33289402 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-0781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelioid sarcoma (ES) is an aggressive ultra-rare soft-tissue sarcoma marked by SMARCB1/INI1 deficiency. SMARCB1/INI1 deficiency leads to elevated expression of EZH2, a component of polycomb repressive complex 2, which mediates gene silencing by catalyzing H3K27me3. Tazemetostat is an oral, SAM-competitive inhibitor of EZH2, whose blockade prevents the methylation of histone H3K27, thus decreasing the growth of EZH2 mutated or over-expressing cancer cells. Tazemetostat has been approved for the treatment of patients aged 16 years and older with metastatic or advanced ES not eligible for complete resection, based on the positive results of a single-arm Phase II basket study. Tazemetostat though represents a new treatment option for ES patients, although clinical/molecular predictors of response are still to be identified. The combination of tazemetostat with other drugs like doxorubicin and immunotherapeutic agents is currently under investigation in ES patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Simeone
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Frezza
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Nadia Zaffaroni
- Department of Experimental Oncology & Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Silvia Stacchiotti
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, 20133, Italy
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23
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Bates
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New York
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24
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Belpinati F, Malerba G, Dal Toè M, Ceccuzzi L, Rodolfo M, Poli A, Turco A, Vergani E, Sangalli A, Gomez-Lira M. Enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit polymorphisms in melanoma skin cancer risk. Exp Dermatol 2020; 29:980-986. [PMID: 32748461 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma is the most deadly skin cancer, and its incidence is growing. EZH2, a member of the Polycomb Group (PcGs) proteins family, plays an important biological role in the occurrence and development of melanoma. EZH2 germline genetic polymorphisms have not been yet evaluated in melanoma predisposition. Three hundred thirty sporadic Italian melanoma patients and 333 healthy volunteers were genotyped to analyse the association between EZH2 variants rs6950683, rs2302427, rs3757441, rs2072408 and melanoma risk. The functionality of rs6950683 alleles was investigated in keratinocytes (HaCat), melanoma cells (A375) and human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293), using promoter-reporter assays. Genotype distribution of SNPs showed that rs6950683T and rs3757441C alleles were positively associated with melanoma risk (P = .003 and .004, respectively). Haplotype analysis revealed that TCCA and CCCG haplotypes were associated with a higher risk of melanoma (P = .02 and .04, respectively). Functional assays demonstrated that allele rs6950683T reduce promoter activity in the three cell lines analysed compared to C allele. rs6950683T and rs3757441C alleles in the EZH2 gene appear positively associated with melanoma risk in the analysed population. In addition, we demonstrated for the first time the functional role of rs6950683 upstream polymorphism on EZH2 gene expression regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Belpinati
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Melissa Dal Toè
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Laura Ceccuzzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Monica Rodolfo
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Surgery, Unit of Immunotherapy, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Albino Poli
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Section of Hygiene and Preventive, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alberto Turco
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Vergani
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Surgery, Unit of Immunotherapy, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Sangalli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Macarena Gomez-Lira
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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25
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Vanni I, Tanda ET, Dalmasso B, Pastorino L, Andreotti V, Bruno W, Boutros A, Spagnolo F, Ghiorzo P. Non-BRAF Mutant Melanoma: Molecular Features and Therapeutical Implications. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:172. [PMID: 32850962 PMCID: PMC7396525 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.00172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most aggressive tumors of the skin, and its incidence is growing worldwide. Historically considered a drug resistant disease, since 2011 the therapeutic landscape of melanoma has radically changed. Indeed, the improved knowledge of the immune system and its interactions with the tumor, and the ever more thorough molecular characterization of the disease, has allowed the development of immunotherapy on the one hand, and molecular target therapies on the other. The increased availability of more performing technologies like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and the availability of increasingly large genetic panels, allows the identification of several potential therapeutic targets. In light of this, numerous clinical and preclinical trials are ongoing, to identify new molecular targets. Here, we review the landscape of mutated non-BRAF skin melanoma, in light of recent data deriving from Whole-Exome Sequencing (WES) or Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS) studies on melanoma cohorts for which information on the mutation rate of each gene was available, for a total of 10 NGS studies and 992 samples, focusing on available, or in experimentation, targeted therapies beyond those targeting mutated BRAF. Namely, we describe 33 established and candidate driver genes altered with frequency greater than 1.5%, and the current status of targeted therapy for each gene. Only 1.1% of the samples showed no coding mutations, whereas 30% showed at least one mutation in the RAS genes (mostly NRAS) and 70% showed mutations outside of the RAS genes, suggesting potential new roads for targeted therapy. Ongoing clinical trials are available for 33.3% of the most frequently altered genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Vanni
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Bruna Dalmasso
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Lorenza Pastorino
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Virginia Andreotti
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - William Bruno
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Boutros
- Medical Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Paola Ghiorzo
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
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26
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Epigenetic Mechanisms of Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10071061. [PMID: 32708698 PMCID: PMC7407667 DOI: 10.3390/biom10071061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated to be highly efficient in treating solid tumors; however, many patients have limited benefits in terms of response and survival. This rapidly led to the investigation of combination therapies to enhance response rates. Moreover, predictive biomarkers were assessed to better select patients. Although PD-L1 expression remains the only validated marker in clinics, molecular profiling has brought valuable information, showing that the tumor mutation load and microsatellite instability (MSI) status were associated to higher response rates in nearly all cancer types. Moreover, in lung cancer, EGFR and MET mutations, oncogene fusions or STK11 inactivating mutations were associated with low response rates. Cancer progression towards invasive phenotypes that impede immune surveillance relies on complex regulatory networks and cell interactions within the tumor microenvironment. Epigenetic modifications, such as the alteration of histone patterns, chromatin structure, DNA methylation status at specific promoters and changes in microRNA levels, may alter the cell phenotype and reshape the tumor microenvironment, allowing cells to grow and escape from immune surveillance. The objective of this review is to make an update on the identified epigenetic changes that target immune surveillance and, ultimately, ICI responses, such as histone marks, DNA methylation and miR signatures. Translational studies or clinical trials, when available, and potential epigenetic biomarkers will be discussed as perspectives in the context of combination treatment strategies to enhance ICI responses in patients with solid tumors.
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27
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Tiffen J, Gallagher SJ, Filipp F, Gunatilake D, Emran AA, Cullinane C, Dutton-Register K, Aoude L, Hayward N, Chatterjee A, Rodger EJ, Eccles MR, Hersey P. EZH2 Cooperates with DNA Methylation to Downregulate Key Tumor Suppressors and IFN Gene Signatures in Melanoma. J Invest Dermatol 2020; 140:2442-2454.e5. [PMID: 32360600 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2020.02.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The histone methylase EZH2 is frequently dysregulated in melanoma and is associated with DNA methylation and silencing of genes involved in tumor suppression. In this study, we used chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing to identify key suppressor genes that are silenced by histone methylation in constitutively active EZH2(Y641) mutant melanoma and assessed whether these regions were also sites of DNA methylation. The genes identified were validated by their re-expression after treatment with EZH2 and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors. The expression of putative EZH2 target genes was shown to be highly relevant to the survival of patients with melanoma in clinical datasets. To determine correlates of response to EZH2 inhibitors, we screened a panel of 53 melanoma cell lines for drug sensitivity. We compared RNA sequencing profiles of sensitive to resistant melanoma cells and performed pathway analysis. Sensitivity was associated with strong downregulation of IFN-γ and IFN-α gene signatures that were reversed by treatment with EZH2 inhibitors. This is consistent with EZH2-driven dedifferentiated invasive states associated with treatment resistance and defects in antigen presentation. These results suggest that EZH2 inhibitors may be most effectively targeted to immunologically cold melanoma to both induce direct cytotoxicity and increase immune responses in the context of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessamy Tiffen
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology Group, The Centenary Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stuart J Gallagher
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology Group, The Centenary Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Fabian Filipp
- Systems Biology and Cancer Metabolism, Program for Quantitative Systems Biology, University of California Merced, Merced, California, USA
| | - Dilini Gunatilake
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology Group, The Centenary Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abdullah Al Emran
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology Group, The Centenary Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carleen Cullinane
- Translational Research Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Lauren Aoude
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nick Hayward
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Aniruddha Chatterjee
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Euan J Rodger
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michael R Eccles
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Peter Hersey
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology Group, The Centenary Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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28
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Tseng HY, Dreyer J, Emran AA, Gunatilake D, Pirozyan M, Cullinane C, Dutton-Regester K, Rizos H, Hayward NK, McArthur G, Hersey P, Tiffen J, Gallagher S. Co-targeting bromodomain and extra-terminal proteins and MCL1 induces synergistic cell death in melanoma. Int J Cancer 2020; 147:2176-2189. [PMID: 32249419 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.33000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of melanoma has been markedly improved by the introduction of targeted therapies and checkpoint blockade immunotherapy. Unfortunately, resistance to these therapies remains a limitation. Novel anticancer therapeutics targeting the MCL1 anti-apoptotic protein have shown impressive responses in haematological cancers but are yet to be evaluated in melanoma. To assess the sensitivity of melanoma to new MCL1 inhibitors, we measured the response of 51 melanoma cell lines to the novel MCL1 inhibitor, S63845. Additionally, we assessed combination of this drug with inhibitors of the bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) protein family of epigenetic readers, which we postulated would assist MCL1 inhibition by downregulating anti-apoptotic targets regulated by NF-kB such as BCLXL, BCL2A1 and XIAP, and by upregulating pro-apoptotic proteins including BIM and NOXA. Only 14% of melanoma cell lines showed sensitivity to S63845, however, combination of S63845 and I-BET151 induced highly synergistic apoptotic cell death in all melanoma lines tested and in an in vivo xenograft model. Cell death was dependent on caspases and BAX/BAK. Although the combination of drugs increased the BH3-only protein, BIM, and downregulated anti-apoptotic proteins such as BCL2A1, the importance of these proteins in inducing cell death varied between cell lines. ABT-199 or ABT-263 inhibitors against BCL2 or BCL2 and BCLXL, respectively, induced further cell death when combined with S63845 and I-BET151. The combination of MCL1 and BET inhibition appears to be a promising therapeutic approach for metastatic melanoma, and presents opportunities to add further BCL2 family inhibitors to overcome treatment resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Yi Tseng
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology, The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia.,Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jan Dreyer
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology, The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abdullah Al Emran
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology, The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia.,Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dilini Gunatilake
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology, The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mehdi Pirozyan
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology, The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia.,Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carleen Cullinane
- Translational Research Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Oncogenic Signalling and Growth Control Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ken Dutton-Regester
- Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia.,Oncogenomics Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Helen Rizos
- Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nicholas K Hayward
- Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia.,Oncogenomics Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Grant McArthur
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Hersey
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology, The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia.,Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jessamy Tiffen
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology, The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia.,Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stuart Gallagher
- Melanoma Immunology and Oncology, The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, Wollstonecraft, New South Wales, Australia.,Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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29
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Gong H, Gao S, Yu C, Li M, Liu P, Zhang G, Song J, Zheng J. Effect and mechanism of YB-1 knockdown on glioma cell growth, migration, and apoptosis. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2020; 52:168-179. [PMID: 32047913 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmz161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Y-box binding protein 1 (YB-1) is manifested as its involvement in cell proliferation and differentiation and malignant cell transformation. Overexpression of YB-1 is associated with glioma progression and patient survival. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of YB-1 knockdown on glioma cell progression and reveal the mechanisms of YB-1 knockdown on glioma cell growth, migration, and apoptosis. It was found that the knockdown of YB-1 decreased the mRNA and protein levels of YB-1 in U251 glioma cells. The knockdown of YB-1 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, and migration in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Proteome and phosphoproteome data revealed that YB-1 is involved in glioma progression through regulating the expression and phosphorylation of major proteins involved in cell cycle, adhesion, and apoptosis. The main regulated proteins included CCNB1, CCNDBP1, CDK2, CDK3, ADGRG1, CDH-2, MMP14, AIFM1, HO-1, and BAX. Furthermore, it was also found that YB-1 knockdown is associated with the hypo-phosphorylation of ErbB, mTOR, HIF-1, cGMP-PKG, and insulin signaling pathways, and proteoglycans in cancer. Our findings indicated that YB-1 plays a key role in glioma progression in multiple ways, including regulating the expression and phosphorylation of major proteins associated with cell cycle, adhesion, and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huilin Gong
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Shan Gao
- Department of Kidney Transplant, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Chenghuan Yu
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Animal and Safety Evaluation, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310013, China
| | - Meihe Li
- Department of Kidney Transplant, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Dermatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Guanjun Zhang
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Jinning Song
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Jin Zheng
- Department of Kidney Transplant, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
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30
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Hanniford D, Ulloa-Morales A, Karz A, Berzoti-Coelho MG, Moubarak RS, Sánchez-Sendra B, Kloetgen A, Davalos V, Imig J, Wu P, Vasudevaraja V, Argibay D, Lilja K, Tabaglio T, Monteagudo C, Guccione E, Tsirigos A, Osman I, Aifantis I, Hernando E. Epigenetic Silencing of CDR1as Drives IGF2BP3-Mediated Melanoma Invasion and Metastasis. Cancer Cell 2020; 37:55-70.e15. [PMID: 31935372 PMCID: PMC7184928 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2019.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 202] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis is the primary cause of death of cancer patients. Dissecting mechanisms governing metastatic spread may uncover important tumor biology and/or yield promising therapeutic insights. Here, we investigated the role of circular RNAs (circRNA) in metastasis, using melanoma as a model aggressive tumor. We identified silencing of cerebellar degeneration-related 1 antisense (CDR1as), a regulator of miR-7, as a hallmark of melanoma progression. CDR1as depletion results from epigenetic silencing of LINC00632, its originating long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and promotes invasion in vitro and metastasis in vivo through a miR-7-independent, IGF2BP3-mediated mechanism. Moreover, CDR1as levels reflect cellular states associated with distinct therapeutic responses. Our study reveals functional, prognostic, and predictive roles for CDR1as and expose circRNAs as key players in metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Hanniford
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Alejandro Ulloa-Morales
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alcida Karz
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria Gabriela Berzoti-Coelho
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rana S Moubarak
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Andreas Kloetgen
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Veronica Davalos
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jochen Imig
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pamela Wu
- Institute for Systems Genetics, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Varshini Vasudevaraja
- Applied Bioinformatics Laboratories, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Diana Argibay
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karin Lilja
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tommaso Tabaglio
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A(∗)STAR, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Ernesto Guccione
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A(∗)STAR, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aristotelis Tsirigos
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Applied Bioinformatics Laboratories, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Iman Osman
- Departments of Urology and Medicine, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Iannis Aifantis
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eva Hernando
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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31
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Pandya P, Jethva M, Rubin E, Birnbaum RY, Braiman A, Isakov N. PICOT binding to chromatin-associated EED negatively regulates cyclin D2 expression by increasing H3K27me3 at the CCND2 gene promoter. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:685. [PMID: 31527584 PMCID: PMC6746821 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1935-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Protein kinase C (PKC)-interacting cousin of thioredoxin (PICOT; also termed glutaredoxin 3 (Grx3; Glrx3)) is a ubiquitous protein that can interact with the embryonic ectoderm development (EED) protein via each of its two C-terminal PICOT/Grx homology domains. Since EED is a Polycomb-Group protein and a core component of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), we tested the involvement of PICOT in the regulation of PRC2-mediated H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3), transcription and translation of selected PRC2 target genes. A fraction of the cellular PICOT protein was found in the nuclei of leukemia cell lines, where it was associated with the chromatin. In addition, PICOT coimmunoprecipitated with chromatin-residing EED derived from Jurkat and COS-7 cell nuclei. PICOT knockdown led to a reduced H3K27me3 mark and a decrease in EED and EZH2 at the CCND2 gene promoter. In agreement, PICOT-deficient T cells exhibited a significant increase in CCND2 mRNA and protein expression. Since elevated expression levels of PICOT were reported in several different tumors and correlated in the current studies with decreased transcription and translation of the CCND2 gene, we tested whether this opposite correlation exists in human cancers. Data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database indicated statistically significant negative correlation between PICOT and CCND2 in eight different human tumors where the highest correlation was in lung (p = 8.67E−10) and pancreatic (p = 1.06E−5) adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, high expression of PICOT and low expression of CCND2 correlated with poor patient survival in five different types of human tumors. The results suggest that PICOT binding to chromatin-associated EED modulates the H3K27me3 level at the CCND2 gene promoter which may be one of the potential mechanisms for regulation of cyclin D2 expression in tumors. These findings also indicate that a low PICOT/CCND2 expression ratio might serve as a good predictor of patient survival in selected human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinakin Pandya
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences and the Cancer Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Minesh Jethva
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences and the Cancer Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Eitan Rubin
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences and the Cancer Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Ramon Y Birnbaum
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Alex Braiman
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences and the Cancer Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Noah Isakov
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences and the Cancer Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel.
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Duan YT, Sangani CB, Liu W, Soni KV, Yao Y. New Promises to Cure Cancer and Other Genetic Diseases/Disorders: Epi-drugs Through Epigenetics. Curr Top Med Chem 2019; 19:972-994. [DOI: 10.2174/1568026619666190603094439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
All the heritable alterations in gene expression and chromatin structure due to chemical modifications that do not involve changes in the primary gene nucleotide sequence are referred to as epigenetics. DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs are distinct types of epigenetic inheritance. Epigenetic patterns have been linked to the developmental stages, environmental exposure, and diet. Therapeutic strategies are now being developed to target human diseases such as cancer with mutations in epigenetic regulatory genes using specific inhibitors. Within the past two decades, seven epigenetic drugs have received regulatory approval and many others show their candidature in clinical trials. The current article represents a review of epigenetic heritance, diseases connected with epigenetic alterations and regulatory approved epigenetic drugs as future medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Tao Duan
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Chetan B. Sangani
- Shri Maneklal M. Patel Institute of Sciences and Research, Kadi Sarva Vishwavidyalaya University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 362024, India
| | - Wei Liu
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Kunjal V. Soni
- Shri Maneklal M. Patel Institute of Sciences and Research, Kadi Sarva Vishwavidyalaya University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 362024, India
| | - Yongfang Yao
- Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
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Comparative Assessment of Antitumor Effects and Autophagy Induction as a Resistance Mechanism by Cytotoxics and EZH2 Inhibition in INI1-Negative Epithelioid Sarcoma Patient-Derived Xenograft. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11071015. [PMID: 31331120 PMCID: PMC6678245 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11071015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelioid sarcoma (ES) is a rare mesenchymal malignancy marked by SMARCB1/INI1 deficiency. Retrospective clinical data report on the activity of anthracycline- and gemcitabine-based regimens. EZH2 inhibitors are currently being tested in clinical trials. Since comparisons of these agents are unlikely to be prospectively evaluated in the clinics, we took advantage of an INI1-deficient proximal-type ES patient-derived xenograft (PDX ES-1) to comparatively assess its preclinical antitumor activity. Mice were treated with doxorubicin and ifosfamide, singly or in combination, gemcitabine, and the EZH2 inhibitor EPZ-011989. Comparable antitumor activity (max tumor volume inhibition: ~90%) was caused by gemcitabine, EPZ-011989, and the doxorubicin-ifosfamide combination. The integration of RNAseq data, generated on tumors obtained from untreated and EPZ-011989-treated mice, and results from functional studies, carried out on the PDX-derived ES-1 cell line, revealed autophagy induction as a possible survival mechanism in residual tumor cells following EPZ-011989 treatment and identified HMGA2 as a main player in this process. Our data support the clinical use of gemcitabine and the doxorubicin-ifosfamide combination, confirm EZH2 as a therapeutic target in proximal-type ES, and suggest autophagy as a cytoprotective mechanism against EZH2 inhibition.
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Targeting DNA Methylation and EZH2 Activity to Overcome Melanoma Resistance to Immunotherapy. Trends Immunol 2019; 40:328-344. [PMID: 30853334 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Methylation of DNA at CpG sites is the most common and stable of epigenetic changes in cancer. Hypermethylation acts to limit immune checkpoint blockade immunotherapy by inhibiting endogenous interferon responses needed for recognition of cancer cells. By contrast, global hypomethylation results in the expression of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and inhibitory cytokines, accompanied by epithelial-mesenchymal changes that can contribute to immunosuppression. The drivers of these contrasting methylation states are not well understood. DNA methylation also plays a key role in cytotoxic T cell 'exhaustion' associated with tumor progression. We present an updated exploratory analysis of how DNA methylation may define patient subgroups and can be targeted to develop tailored treatment combinations to help improve patient outcomes.
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35
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Kumari K, Das B, Adhya AK, Rath AK, Mishra SK. Genome-wide expression analysis reveals six contravened targets of EZH2 associated with breast cancer patient survival. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1974. [PMID: 30760814 PMCID: PMC6374476 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39122-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Several pioneering work have established that apart from genetic alterations, epigenetic modifications contribute significantly in tumor progression. Remarkable role of EZH2 in cancer highlights the importance of identifying its targets. Although much emphasis has been placed in recent years in designing drugs and inhibitors targeting EZH2, less effort has been given in exploring its existing targets that will help in understanding the oncogenic role of EZH2 in turn which may provide a more stringent method of targeting EZH2. In the present study, we validated six direct targets of EZH2 that are GPNMB, PMEPA1, CoL5A1, VGLL4, POMT2 and SUMF1 associated with cancer related pathways. Upon EZH2 knockdown, more than two fold increase in the target gene expression was evident. CHIP-qPCR performed in both MCF-7 and MDA-MDA-231 confirmed the in-vivo binding of EZH2 on its identified target. Thirty invasive breast carcinoma cases with their adjacent normal tissues were included in the study. Immunohistochemistry in primary breast tumor tissue array showed tumor dependent expression of EZH2. Array of MERAV expression database revealed the strength of association of EZH2 with its target genes. Real time PCR performed with RNA extracted from breast tumor tissues further authenticated the existing negative correlation between EZH2 and its target genes. Pearson correlation coefficient & statistical significance computed using the matrix provided in the database strengthened the negative correlation between identified target genes and EZH2. KM plotter analysis showed improved relapse-free survival with increased expression of PMEPA1, POMT2, VGLL4 and SUMF1 in breast cancer patients indicating their therapeutic potential. While investigating the relevance of these target genes, different mutations of them were found in breast cancer patients. Seeking the clinical relevance of our study, following our recent publication that reports the role of EZH2 in nicotine-mediated breast cancer development and progression, we observed significant reduced expression of SUMF1 in breast cancer patient samples with smoking history in comparison to never-smoked patient samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Kumari
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Cancer Biology, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.,Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Biswajit Das
- Tumor Microenvironment and Animal Models Laboratory, Department of Translational Research, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.,Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Amit K Adhya
- Department of Pathology, AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Arabinda K Rath
- Hemalata Hospitals and Research Centre, Chandrashekharpur, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Sandip K Mishra
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Cancer Biology, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
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Perotti V, Baldassari P, Molla A, Nicolini G, Bersani I, Grazia G, Benigni F, Maurichi A, Santinami M, Anichini A, Mortarini R. An actionable axis linking NFATc2 to EZH2 controls the EMT-like program of melanoma cells. Oncogene 2019; 38:4384-4396. [PMID: 30710146 PMCID: PMC6756060 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-0729-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Discovery of new actionable targets and functional networks in melanoma is an urgent need as only a fraction of metastatic patients achieves durable clinical benefit by targeted therapy or immunotherapy approaches. Here we show that NFATc2 expression is associated with an EMT-like transcriptional program and with an invasive melanoma phenotype, as shown by analysis of melanoma cell lines at the mRNA and protein levels, interrogation of the TCGA melanoma dataset and characterization of melanoma lesions by immunohistochemistry. Gene silencing or pharmacological inhibition of NFATc2 downregulated EMT-related genes and AXL, and suppressed c-Myc, FOXM1, and EZH2. Targeting of c-Myc suppressed FOXM1 and EZH2, while targeting of FOXM1 suppressed EZH2. Inhibition of c-Myc, or FOXM1, or EZH2 downregulated EMT-related gene expression, upregulated MITF and suppressed migratory and invasive activity of neoplastic cells. Stable silencing of NFATc2 impaired melanoma cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo in SCID mice. In NFATc2+ EZH2+ melanoma cell lines pharmacological co-targeting of NFATc2 and EZH2 exerted strong anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic activity, irrespective of BRAF or NRAS mutations and of BRAF inhibitor resistance. These results provide preclinical evidence for a role of NFATc2 in shaping the EMT-like melanoma phenotype and reveal a targetable vulnerability associated with NFATc2 and EZH2 expression in melanoma cells belonging to different mutational subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Perotti
- Department of Research, Human Tumors Immunobiology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Baldassari
- Department of Research, Human Tumors Immunobiology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Molla
- Department of Research, Human Tumors Immunobiology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Bersani
- Department of Research, Human Tumors Immunobiology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Grazia
- Department of Research, Human Tumors Immunobiology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Benigni
- HuMabs Biomed, a subsidiary of Vir Biotechnology, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Maurichi
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Unit, Department of Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Mario Santinami
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Unit, Department of Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Anichini
- Department of Research, Human Tumors Immunobiology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Mortarini
- Department of Research, Human Tumors Immunobiology Unit, Milan, Italy.
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Genetic alterations crossing the borders of distinct hematopoetic lineages and solid tumors: Diagnostic challenges in the era of high-throughput sequencing in hemato-oncology. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2018; 126:64-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2018.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 03/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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38
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Yi S, Sun J, Qiu L, Fu W, Wang A, Liu X, Yang Y, Kadin ME, Tu P, Wang Y. Dual Role of EZH2 in Cutaneous Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: Promoting Tumor Cell Survival and Regulating Tumor Microenvironment. J Invest Dermatol 2018; 138:1126-1136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2017.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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39
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Reidel V, Kauschinger J, Hauch RT, Müller-Thomas C, Nadarajah N, Burgkart R, Schmidt B, Hempel D, Jacob A, Slotta-Huspenina J, Höckendorf U, Peschel C, Kern W, Haferlach T, Götze KS, Jilg S, Jost PJ. Selective inhibition of BCL-2 is a promising target in patients with high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes and adverse mutational profile. Oncotarget 2018; 9:17270-17281. [PMID: 29707107 PMCID: PMC5915115 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic mutations in genes such as ASXL1, RUNX1, TP53 or EZH2 adversely affect the outcome of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Since selective BCL-2 inhibition is a promising treatment strategy in hematologic malignancies, we tested the therapeutic impact of ABT-199 on MDS patient samples bearing an adverse mutational profile. By gene expression, we found that the level of pro-apoptotic BIM significantly decreased during MDS disease progression in line with an acquired resistance to cell death. Supporting the potential for ABT-199 treatment in MDS, high-risk MDS patient samples specifically underwent cell death in response to ABT-199 even when harbouring mutations in ASXL1, RUNX1, TP53 or EZH2. ABT-199 effectively targeted the stem- and progenitor compartment in advanced MDS harbouring mutations in ASXL1, RUNX1, TP53 or EZH2 and even proved effective in patients harbouring more than one of the defined high-risk mutations. Moreover, we utilized the protein abundance of BCL-2 family members in primary patient samples using flow cytometry as a biomarker to predict ABT-199 treatment response. Our data demonstrate that ABT-199 effectively induces apoptosis in progenitors of high-risk MDS/sAML despite the presence of adverse genetic mutations supporting the notion that pro-apoptotic intervention will hold broad therapeutic potential in high-risk MDS patients with poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Reidel
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Johanna Kauschinger
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Richard T Hauch
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Catharina Müller-Thomas
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Rainer Burgkart
- Klinik für Orthopädie und Sportorthopädie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Dirk Hempel
- Onkologisches Zentrum Donauwörth, Donauwörth, Germany
| | - Anne Jacob
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Slotta-Huspenina
- Institut für Pathologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrike Höckendorf
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Peschel
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Deutsche Konsortium für translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) of the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Katharina S Götze
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Deutsche Konsortium für translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) of the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Jilg
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Philipp J Jost
- Medizinische Klinik für Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Deutsche Konsortium für translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) of the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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40
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Downregulated TRPV1 Expression Contributes to Melanoma Growth via the Calcineurin-ATF3-p53 Pathway. J Invest Dermatol 2018; 138:2205-2215. [PMID: 29580868 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2018.03.1510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Revised: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is the most lethal form of skin cancer with increasing incidence over the years. Because of its rapid proliferative and drastic metastatic capacity, the prognosis of melanoma remains dismal, although the targeted therapy and immunotherapy have gained revolutionary progress recently. Therefore, it is of necessity to further clarify the mechanism of melanoma pathogenesis for developing an alternative treatment strategy. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a nonselective Ca2+ channel greatly involved in regulating cell apoptosis, proliferation, metabolism, and cancer development, but its role in melanoma remains unknown. Herein, we first found that TRPV1 expression was significantly decreased in melanoma tissues and cell lines, compared with nevus tissues and normal melanocytes, respectively. We then proved that TRPV1 overexpression or its agonist capsaicin treatment inhibited melanoma growth by activating p53 and inducing cell apoptosis. A subsequent mechanistic study revealed that TRPV1 induced Ca2+ influx to regulate p53 activation via calcineurin-ATF3 transcriptional cascade. Finally, the effect of TRPV1 on melanoma growth was proved in vivo. Altogether, our study demonstrates that TRPV1 is a potential tumor suppressor in melanoma.
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Dancsok AR, Asleh-Aburaya K, Nielsen TO. Advances in sarcoma diagnostics and treatment. Oncotarget 2018; 8:7068-7093. [PMID: 27732970 PMCID: PMC5351692 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The heterogeneity of sarcomas with regard to molecular genesis, histology, clinical characteristics, and response to treatment makes management of these rare yet diverse neoplasms particularly challenging. This review encompasses recent developments in sarcoma diagnostics and treatment, including cytotoxic, targeted, epigenetic, and immune therapy agents. In the past year, groups internationally explored the impact of adding mandatory molecular testing to histological diagnosis, reporting some changes in diagnosis and/or management; however, the impact on outcomes could not be adequately assessed. Transcriptome sequencing techniques have brought forward new diagnostic tools for identifying fusions and/or characterizing unclassified entities. Next-generation sequencing and advanced molecular techniques were also applied to identify potential targets for directed and epigenetic therapy, where preclinical studies reported results for agents active within the receptor tyrosine kinase, mTOR, Notch, Wnt, Hedgehog, Hsp90, and MDM2 signaling networks. At the level of clinical practice, modest developments were seen for some sarcoma subtypes in conventional chemotherapy and in therapies targeting the pathways activated by various receptor tyrosine kinases. In the burgeoning field of immune therapy, sarcoma work is in its infancy; however, elaborate protocols for immune stimulation are being explored, and checkpoint blockade agents advance from preclinical models to clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda R Dancsok
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Karama Asleh-Aburaya
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Torsten O Nielsen
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Sarcoma Disease Site Committee, Canadian Cancer Trials Group
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42
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Zhu K, Deng Y, Weng G, Hu D, Huang C, Matsumoto K, Nagayasu T, Koji T, Zheng X, Jiang W, Lin G, Cai Y, Weng G, Chen X. Analysis of H3K27me3 expression and DNA methylation at CCGG sites in smoking and non-smoking patients with non-small cell lung cancer and their clinical significance. Oncol Lett 2018; 15:6179-6188. [PMID: 29616099 PMCID: PMC5876441 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.8100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Smoking frequently leads to epigenetic alterations, including DNA methylation and histone modifications. The effect that smoking has on the DNA methylation levels at CCGG sites, the expression of trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3) and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), and their interactions in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were analyzed. There were a total of 42 patients with NSCLC, 22 with adenocarcinomas and 20 with squamous cell carcinomas enrolled in the present study. Expression of H3K27me3, EZH2 and proliferating cellular nuclear antigen (PCNA) were immunohistochemically detected. DNA methylation at CCGG sites was evaluated via histoendonuclease-linked detection of DNA methylation sites. The apoptotic index of cancerous tissues obtained from patients of different smoking statuses was evaluated via the terminal deoxynucleotidyl-transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling method. The association with clinicopathological data was calculated relative to different smoking statuses. Compared with the non-smokers, smokers with NSCLC exhibited a significantly lower apoptotic index (P<0.05), and frequently had a lower level of DNA methylation at CCGG sites, lower H3K27me3 expression and a higher EZH2 expression (P<0.05). DNA methylation levels at CCGG sites were negatively correlated to the Brinkman index (P=0.017). Furthermore, there was a parallel association between the H3K27me3 and EZH2 expression levels in the majority of smokers, whereas in the majority of non-smokers, there was a diverging association (P=0.015). There was a diverging association between the PCNA and EZH2 expression levels in the majority of smokers; however, in the majority of non-smokers, there was a parallel association (P=0.048). In addition, the association between the CCGG methylation ratio and immunohistochemical expression of H3K27me3 was a parallel association in the majority of smokers, while in the majority of non-smokers there was a diverging association (P=0.049). Conclusively, patients with NSCLC and different smoking statuses exhibit different epigenetic characteristics. Additionally, DNA methylation levels at the CCGG sites may have the ability to determine associations between the expression levels of H3K27me3, EZH2 and PCNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunshou Zhu
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Fujian Cancer Hospital and Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350014, P.R. China
| | - Yujie Deng
- Department of Chemotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350005, P.R. China
| | - Guoxing Weng
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Dan Hu
- Department of Pathology, Fujian Cancer Hospital and Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital Fuzhou, Fuzhou, Fujian 350014, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fujian Cancer Hospital and Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital Fuzhou, Fuzhou, Fujian 350014, P.R. China
| | - Keitaro Matsumoto
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Nagasaki, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagayasu
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Nagasaki, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Takehiko Koji
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
| | - Xiongwei Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Fujian Cancer Hospital and Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital Fuzhou, Fuzhou, Fujian 350014, P.R. China
| | - Wenhui Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Fujian Cancer Hospital and Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital Fuzhou, Fuzhou, Fujian 350014, P.R. China
| | - Gen Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fujian Cancer Hospital and Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital Fuzhou, Fuzhou, Fujian 350014, P.R. China
| | - Yibin Cai
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Fujian Cancer Hospital and Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350014, P.R. China
| | - Guibin Weng
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Fujian Cancer Hospital and Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350014, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohui Chen
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Fujian Cancer Hospital and Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350014, P.R. China
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Christofides A, Karantanos T, Bardhan K, Boussiotis VA. Epigenetic regulation of cancer biology and anti-tumor immunity by EZH2. Oncotarget 2018; 7:85624-85640. [PMID: 27793053 PMCID: PMC5356764 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycomb group proteins regulate chromatin structure and have an important regulatory role on gene expression in various cell types. Two polycomb group complexes (Polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) and 2 (PRC2)) have been identified in mammalian cells. Both PRC1 and PRC2 compact chromatin, and also catalyze histone modifications. PRC1 mediates monoubiquitination of histone H2A, whereas PRC2 catalyzes methylation of histone H3 on lysine 27. These alterations of histones can lead to altered gene expression patterns by regulating chromatin structure. Numerous studies have highlighted the role of the PRC2 catalytic component enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) in neoplastic development and progression, and EZH2 mutations have been identified in various malignancies. Through modulating the expression of critical genes, EZH2 is actively involved in fundamental cellular processes such as cell cycle progression, cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. In addition to cancer cells, EZH2 also has a decisive role in the differentiation and function of T effector and T regulatory cells. In this review we summarize the recent progress regarding the role of EZH2 in human malignancies, highlight the molecular mechanisms by which EZH2 aberrations promote the pathogenesis of cancer, and discuss the anti-tumor effects of EZH2 targeting via activating direct anti-cancer mechanisms and anti-tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthos Christofides
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Theodoros Karantanos
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,General Internal Medicine Section, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kankana Bardhan
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vassiliki A Boussiotis
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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44
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Chen JF, Luo X, Xiang LS, Li HT, Zha L, Li N, He JM, Xie GF, Xie X, Liang HJ. EZH2 promotes colorectal cancer stem-like cell expansion by activating p21cip1-Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Oncotarget 2018; 7:41540-41558. [PMID: 27172794 PMCID: PMC5173077 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Because colorectal cancer (CRC) stem-like cells (CCS-like cells) contribute to poor patient prognosis, these cells are a potential target for CRC therapy. However, the mechanism underlying the maintenance of CCS-like cell properties remains unclear. Here, we found that patients with advanced stage CRC expressed high levels of polycomb group protein enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2). High expression of EZH2 in tumor tissues correlated with poor patient prognosis. Conversely, silencing EZH2 reduced CRC cell proliferation. Surprisingly, EZH2 was more highly expressed in the CCS-like cell subpopulation than in the non-CCS-like cell subpopulation. EZH2 knockdown significantly reduced the CD133+/CD44+ subpopulation, suppressed mammosphere formation, and decreased the expression of self-renewal-related genes and strongly impaired tumor-initiating capacity in a re-implantation mouse model. Gene expression data from 433 human CRC specimens from TCGA database and in vitro results revealed that EZH2 helped maintain CCS-like cell properties by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. We further revealed that p21cip1–mediated arrest of the cell cycle at G1/S phase is required for EZH2 activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Moreover, the specific EZH2 inhibitor EPZ-6438, a clinical trial drug, prevented CRC progression. Collectively, these findings revealed EZH2 maintaining CCS-like cell characteristics by arresting the cell cycle at the G1/S phase. These results indicate a new approach to CRC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Fang Chen
- Department of Oncology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xi Luo
- Department of Oncology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li-Sha Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong-Tao Li
- Department of Oncology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin Zha
- Department of Oncology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ni Li
- Department of Oncology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jian-Ming He
- Department of Oncology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gan-Feng Xie
- Department of Oncology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiong Xie
- Department of Oncology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hou-Jie Liang
- Department of Oncology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
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45
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Pan MR, Hsu MC, Chen LT, Hung WC. Orchestration of H3K27 methylation: mechanisms and therapeutic implication. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:209-223. [PMID: 28717873 PMCID: PMC5756243 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-017-2596-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Histone proteins constitute the core component of the nucleosome, the basic unit of chromatin. Chemical modifications of histone proteins affect their interaction with genomic DNA, the accessibility of recognized proteins, and the recruitment of enzymatic complexes to activate or diminish specific transcriptional programs to modulate cellular response to extracellular stimuli or insults. Methylation of histone proteins was demonstrated 50 years ago; however, the biological significance of each methylated residue and the integration between these histone markers are still under intensive investigation. Methylation of histone H3 on lysine 27 (H3K27) is frequently found in the heterochromatin and conceives a repressive marker that is linked with gene silencing. The identification of enzymes that add or erase the methyl group of H3K27 provides novel insights as to how this histone marker is dynamically controlled under different circumstances. Here we summarize the methyltransferases and demethylases involved in the methylation of H3K27 and show the new evidence by which the H3K27 methylation can be established via an alternative mechanism. Finally, the progress of drug development targeting H3K27 methylation-modifying enzymes and their potential application in cancer therapy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Ren Pan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chuan Hsu
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, 704, Taiwan
| | - Li-Tzong Chen
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, 704, Taiwan
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, 704, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 804, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chun Hung
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, 704, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 804, Taiwan.
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46
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Chen Q, Zheng PS, Yang WT. EZH2-mediated repression of GSK-3β and TP53 promotes Wnt/β-catenin signaling-dependent cell expansion in cervical carcinoma. Oncotarget 2017; 7:36115-36129. [PMID: 27092879 PMCID: PMC5094987 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a catalytic core component of the Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), stimulates the silencing of target genes through histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3). Recent findings have indicated EZH2 is involved in the development and progression of various human cancers. However, the exact mechanism of EZH2 in the promotion of cervical cancer is largely unknown. Here, we show that EZH2 expression gradually increases during the progression of cervical cancer. We identified a significant positive correlation between EZH2 expression and cell proliferation in vitro and tumor formation in vivo by the up-regulation or down-regulation of EZH2 using CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene editing technology and shRNA in HeLa and SiHa cells. Further investigation indicated that EZH2 protein significantly accelerated the cell cycle transition from the G0/G1 to S phase. TOP/FOP-Flash reporter assay revealed that EZH2 significantly activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling and the target genes of Wnt/β-catenin pathway were up-regulated, including β-catenin, cyclin D1, and c-myc. Moreover, dual-luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays confirmed that EZH2 inhibited the expression of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and TP53 through physically interacting with motifs in the promoters of the GSK-3β and TP53 genes. Additionally, blockage of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway resulted in significant inhibition of cell proliferation, and activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway resulted in significant enhancement of cell proliferation, as induced by EZH2. Taken together, our data demonstrate that EZH2 promotes cell proliferation and tumor formation in cervical cancer through activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway by epigenetic silencing via GSK-3β and TP53.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of The Medical College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, The People's Republic of China
| | - Peng-Sheng Zheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of The Medical College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, The People's Republic of China.,Section of Cancer Stem Cell Research, Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of The People's Republic of China, Xi'an, The People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Ting Yang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of The Medical College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, The People's Republic of China
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Thin and thick primary cutaneous melanomas reveal distinct patterns of somatic copy number alterations. Oncotarget 2017; 7:30365-78. [PMID: 27095580 PMCID: PMC5058686 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is one of the most aggressive type of skin tumor. Early stage melanoma can be often cured by surgery; therefore current management guidelines dictate a different approach for thin (<1mm) versus thick (>4mm) melanomas. We have carried out whole-exome sequencing in 5 thin and 5 thick fresh-frozen primary cutaneous melanomas. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis of somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) identified two groups corresponding to thin and thick melanomas. The most striking difference between them was the much greater abundance of SCNAs in thick melanomas, whereas mutation frequency did not significantly change between the two groups. We found novel mutations and focal SCNAs in genes that are embryonic regulators of axon guidance, predominantly in thick melanomas. Analysis of publicly available microarray datasets provided further support for a potential role of Ephrin receptors in melanoma progression. In addition, we have identified a set of SCNAs, including amplification of BRAF and ofthe epigenetic modifier EZH2, that are specific for the group of thick melanomas that developed metastasis during the follow-up. Our data suggest that mutations occur early during melanoma development, whereas SCNAs might be involved in melanoma progression.
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48
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Bai ZT, Bai B, Zhu J, Di CX, Li X, Zhou WC. Epigenetic actions of environmental factors and promising drugs for cancer therapy. Oncol Lett 2017; 15:2049-2056. [PMID: 29434904 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.7597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Carcinogenesis is known to be primarily associated with gene mutations. Recently, increasing evidence has suggested that epigenetic events also serve crucial roles in tumor etiology. Environmental factors, including nutrition, toxicants and ethanol, are involved in carcinogenesis through inducing epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, histone deacetylase and miRNA regulation. Studying epigenetic mechanisms has facilitated the development of early diagnostic strategies and potential therapeutic avenues. Modulation at the epigenetic level, including reversing epigenetic modifications using targeted drugs, has demonstrated promise in cancer therapy. Therefore, identifying novel epigenetic biomarkers and therapeutic targets has potential for the future of cancer therapy. The present review discusses the environmental factors involved in epigenetic modifications and potential drug candidates for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Tian Bai
- The Second Department of General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China.,Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Institute of Gansu, Medical College Cancer Center of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Bing Bai
- The Second Department of General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China.,Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Institute of Gansu, Medical College Cancer Center of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Jun Zhu
- Pathology Department of Donggang Branch Courts, First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Cui-Xia Di
- Department of Heavy Ion Radiation Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Xun Li
- The Second Department of General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China.,Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Institute of Gansu, Medical College Cancer Center of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Ce Zhou
- The Second Department of General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China.,Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Institute of Gansu, Medical College Cancer Center of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
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Abstract
Molecular insights from genome and systems biology are influencing how cancer is diagnosed and treated. We critically evaluate big data challenges in precision medicine. The melanoma research community has identified distinct subtypes involving chronic sun-induced damage and the mitogen-activated protein kinase driver pathway. In addition, despite low mutation burden, non-genomic mitogen-activated protein kinase melanoma drivers are found in membrane receptors, metabolism, or epigenetic signaling with the ability to bypass central mitogen-activated protein kinase molecules and activating a similar program of mitogenic effectors. Mutation hotspots, structural modeling, UV signature, and genomic as well as non-genomic mechanisms of disease initiation and progression are taken into consideration to identify resistance mutations and novel drug targets. A comprehensive precision medicine profile of a malignant melanoma patient illustrates future rational drug targeting strategies. Network analysis emphasizes an important role of epigenetic and metabolic master regulators in oncogenesis. Co-occurrence of driver mutations in signaling, metabolic, and epigenetic factors highlights how cumulative alterations of our genomes and epigenomes progressively lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation. Precision insights have the ability to identify independent molecular pathways suitable for drug targeting. Synergistic treatment combinations of orthogonal modalities including immunotherapy, mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitors, epigenetic inhibitors, and metabolic inhibitors have the potential to overcome immune evasion, side effects, and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian V Filipp
- Systems Biology and Cancer Metabolism, Program for Quantitative Systems Biology, University of California Merced, 2500 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, 95343, USA.
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50
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Epigenetic drivers of tumourigenesis and cancer metastasis. Semin Cancer Biol 2017; 51:149-159. [PMID: 28807546 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the completion of the first human genome sequence and the advent of next generation sequencing technologies, remarkable progress has been made in understanding the genetic basis of cancer. These studies have mainly defined genetic changes as either causal, providing a selective advantage to the cancer cell (a driver mutation) or consequential with no selective advantage (not directly causal, a passenger mutation). A vast unresolved question is how a primary cancer cell becomes metastatic and what are the molecular events that underpin this process. However, extensive sequencing efforts indicate that mutation may not be a causal factor for primary to metastatic transition. On the other hand, epigenetic changes are dynamic in nature and therefore potentially play an important role in determining metastatic phenotypes and this area of research is just starting to be appreciated. Unlike genetic studies, current limitations in studying epigenetic events in cancer metastasis include a lack of conceptual understanding and an analytical framework for identifying putative driver and passenger epigenetic changes. In this review, we discuss the key concepts involved in understanding the role of epigenetic alterations in the metastatic cascade. We particularly focus on driver epigenetic events, and we describe analytical approaches and biological frameworks for distinguishing between "epi-driver" and "epi-passenger" events in metastasis. Finally, we suggest potential directions for future research in this important area of cancer research.
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