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Pan J, Li Y, Gao W, Jiang Q, Geng L, Ding J, Li S, Li J. Transcription factor Sp1 transcriptionally enhances GSDME expression for pyroptosis. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:66. [PMID: 38238307 PMCID: PMC10796635 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06455-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Gasdermin-E (GSDME), the executioner of pyroptosis when cleaved by caspase 3, plays a crucial role in tumor defense and the response to chemotherapy drugs in cells. So far, there are poorly known mechanisms for the expression regulation of GSDME during cell death. Here, we identify the transcription factor Sp1 (Specificity protein 1) as a positive regulator of GSDME-mediated pyroptosis. Sp1 directly interacts with the GSDME promoter at -36 ~ -28 site and promotes GSDME gene transcription. Further, Sp1 knockdown or inhibition suppresses GSDME expression, thus reducing chemotherapy drugs (topotecan, etoposide, doxorubicin, sorafinib and cisplatin) induced cell pyroptosis. The regulation process synergizes with STAT3 (Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) activity and antagonizes with DNA methylation but barely affects GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis or TNF-induced necroptosis. Our current finding reveals a new regulating mechanism of GSDME expression, which may be a viable target for the intervention of GSDME-dependent inflammatory diseases and cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiasong Pan
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenqing Gao
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qizhou Jiang
- Division of Natural Science, Duke Kunshan University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lu Geng
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Ding
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suhua Li
- Division of Natural Science, Duke Kunshan University, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jixi Li
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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2
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Niu ZX, Wang YT, Sun JF, Nie P, Herdewijn P. Recent advance of clinically approved small-molecule drugs for the treatment of myeloid leukemia. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115827. [PMID: 37757658 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid leukemia denotes a hematologic malignancy characterized by aberrant proliferation and impaired differentiation of blood progenitor cells within the bone marrow. Despite the availability of several treatment options, the clinical outlook for individuals afflicted with myeloid leukemia continues to be unfavorable, making it a challenging disease to manage. Over the past, substantial endeavors have been dedicated to the identification of novel targets and the advancement of enhanced therapeutic modalities to ameliorate the management of this disease, resulting in the discovery of many clinically approved small-molecule drugs for myeloid leukemia, including histone deacetylase inhibitors, hypomethylating agents, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This comprehensive review succinctly presents an up-to-date assessment of the application and synthetic routes of clinically sanctioned small-molecule drugs employed in the treatment of myeloid leukemia. Additionally, it provides a concise exploration of the pertinent challenges and prospects encompassing drug resistance and toxicity. Overall, this review effectively underscores the considerable promise exhibited by clinically endorsed small-molecule drugs in the therapeutic realm of myeloid leukemia, while concurrently shedding light on the prospective avenues that may shape the future landscape of drug development within this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Xi Niu
- Department of Pharmacy, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450018, China
| | - Ya-Tao Wang
- First People's Hospital of Shangqiu, Henan Province, Shangqiu, 476100, China; Department of Orthopedics, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, China.
| | - Jin-Feng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, Yanbian University, College of Pharmacy, Yanji, Jilin, 133002, China.
| | - Peng Nie
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Medicinal Chemistry, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49-Box 1041, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Piet Herdewijn
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Medicinal Chemistry, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49-Box 1041, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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3
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Lv S, Liu Y, Xie C, Xue C, Du S, Yao J. Emerging role of interactions between tumor angiogenesis and cancer stem cells. J Control Release 2023; 360:468-481. [PMID: 37391031 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.06.036] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Tumor angiogenesis and cancer stem cells (CSCs) are two major hallmarks of solid tumors. They have long received attention for their critical roles in tumor progression, metastasis and recurrence. Meanwhile, plenty of evidence indicates the close association between CSCs and tumor vasculature. CSCs are proven to promote tumor angiogenesis, and the highly vascularized tumor microenvironment further maintains CSCs growth in return, thereby forming a hard-breaking vicious circle to promote tumor development. Hence, though monotherapy targeting tumor vasculature or CSCs has been extensively studied over the past decades, the poor prognosis has been limiting the clinical application. This review summarizes the crosstalk between tumor vasculature and CSCs with emphasis on small-molecule compounds and the associated biological signaling pathways. We also highlight the importance of linking tumor vessels to CSCs to disrupt the CSCs-angiogenesis vicious circle. More precise treatment regimens targeting tumor vasculature and CSCs are expected to benefit future tumor treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yufei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Changheng Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chenyang Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shi Du
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Jing Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China.
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4
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Safa AR. Drug and apoptosis resistance in cancer stem cells: a puzzle with many pieces. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2022; 5:850-872. [PMID: 36627897 PMCID: PMC9771762 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2022.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Resistance to anticancer agents and apoptosis results in cancer relapse and is associated with cancer mortality. Substantial data have provided convincing evidence establishing that human cancers emerge from cancer stem cells (CSCs), which display self-renewal and are resistant to anticancer drugs, radiation, and apoptosis, and express enhanced epithelial to mesenchymal progression. CSCs represent a heterogeneous tumor cell population and lack specific cellular targets, which makes it a great challenge to target and eradicate them. Similarly, their close relationship with the tumor microenvironment creates greater complexity in developing novel treatment strategies targeting CSCs. Several mechanisms participate in the drug and apoptosis resistance phenotype in CSCs in various cancers. These include enhanced expression of ATP-binding cassette membrane transporters, activation of various cytoprotective and survival signaling pathways, dysregulation of stemness signaling pathways, aberrant DNA repair mechanisms, increased quiescence, autophagy, increased immune evasion, deficiency of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, upregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins including c-FLIP [cellular FLICE (FADD-like IL-1β-converting enzyme)-inhibitory protein], Bcl-2 family members, inhibitors of apoptosis proteins, and PI3K/AKT signaling. Studying such mechanisms not only provides mechanistic insights into these cells that are unresponsive to drugs, but may lead to the development of targeted and effective therapeutics to eradicate CSCs. Several studies have identified promising strategies to target CSCs. These emerging strategies may help target CSC-associated drug resistance and metastasis in clinical settings. This article will review the CSCs drug and apoptosis resistance mechanisms and how to target CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad R. Safa
- Correspondence to: Dr. Ahmad R. Safa, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 635 Barnhill Dr. MS A416, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA. E-mail:
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5
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Sahranavardfard P, Madjd Z, Emami Razavi AN, Ghanadan AR, Firouzi J, Khosravani P, Ghavami S, Ebrahimie E, Ebrahimi M. An Integrative Analysis of The Micro-RNAs Contributing in Stemness, Metastasis and B-Raf Pathways in Malignant Melanoma and Melanoma Stem Cell. CELL JOURNAL 2021; 23:261-272. [PMID: 34308569 PMCID: PMC8286452 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2021.7311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the stemness potency in association with BRAF mutation are
in dispensable to the progression of melanoma. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been introduced as the regulator
of a multitude of oncogenic functions in most of tumors. Therefore identifying and interpreting the expression patterns of
these miRNAs is essential. The present study sought to find common miRNAs regulating all three important pathways
in melanoma development.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, 18 miRNAs that importantly contribute to EMT and have a role
in regulating self-renewal and the BRAF pathway were selected based on current literature and cross-analysis with
available databases. Subsequently, their expression patterns were evaluated in 20 melanoma patients, normal tissues,
serum from patients and control subjects, and melanospheres. Pattern discovery and integrative regulatory network
analysis were used to find the most important miRNAs in melanoma progression.
Results Among 18 selected miRNAs, miR-205, -141, -203, -15b, and -9 were differentially expressed in tumor samples
than normal tissues. Among them, miR-205, -15b, and -9 significantly expressed in serum samples and healthy donors.
Attribute Weighting and decision trees (DT) analysis presented evidence that the combination of miR-205, -203, -9, and
-15b can regulate self-renewal and EMT process, by affecting CDH1, CCND1, and VEGF expression.
Conclusion We suggested here that miR-205, -15b, -203, -9 pattern as the key miRNAs linked to melanoma status,
the pluripotency, proliferation, and motility of malignant cells. However, further investigations are required to find the
mechanisms underlying the combinatory effects of the above mentioned miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Sahranavardfard
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Department of Pathology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Nader Emami Razavi
- Iran National Tumor Bank, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Reza Ghanadan
- Iran National Tumor Bank, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Dermatopathology, Razi Skin Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Firouzi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pardis Khosravani
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Sciences, University of Manitoba, Manitoba, Canada. .,Biology of Breathing, Children Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.,Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Research Institute in Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Esmaeil Ebrahimie
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia. .,Genomics Research Platform, School of Life Sciences, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marzieh Ebrahimi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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6
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de Souza N, de Oliveira ÉA, Faião-Flores F, Pimenta LA, Quincoces JAP, Sampaio SC, Maria-Engler SS. Metalloproteinases Suppression Driven by the Curcumin Analog DM-1 Modulates Invasion in BRAF-Resistant Melanomas. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 20:1038-1050. [PMID: 32067622 DOI: 10.2174/1871520620666200218111422] [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: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma is the most aggressive skin cancer, and BRAF (V600E) is the most frequent mutation that led to the development of BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi). However, patients treated with BRAFi usually present recidivism after 6-9 months. Curcumin is a turmeric substance, and it has been deeply investigated due to its anti-inflammatory and antitumoral effects. Still, the low bioavailability and biodisponibility encouraged the investigation of different analogs. DM-1 is a curcumin analog and has shown an antitumoral impact in previous studies. METHODS Evaluated DM-1 stability and cytotoxic effects for BRAFi-sensitive and resistant melanomas, as well as the role in the metalloproteinases modulation. RESULTS DM-1 showed growth inhibitory potential for melanoma cells, demonstrated by reduction of colony formation, migration and endothelial tube formation, and cell cycle arrest. Subtoxic doses were able to downregulate important Metalloproteinases (MMPs) related to invasiveness, such as MMP-1, -2 and -9. Negative modulations of TIMP-2 and MMP-14 reduced MMP-2 and -9 activity; however, the reverse effect is seen when increased TIMP-2 and MMP-14 resulted in raised MMP-2. CONCLUSION These findings provide essential details into the functional role of DM-1 in melanomas, encouraging further studies in the development of combinatorial treatments for melanomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayane de Souza
- Skin Biology Group, Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, FCF/USP, Brazil
| | - Érica Aparecida de Oliveira
- Skin Biology Group, Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, FCF/USP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Faião-Flores
- Skin Biology Group, Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, FCF/USP, Brazil
| | | | - José A P Quincoces
- Laboratory of Organic Synthesis, Anhanguera University of São Paulo, UNIAN, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra C Sampaio
- Butantan Institute, Pathophysiology Laboratory, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvya S Maria-Engler
- Skin Biology Group, Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, FCF/USP, Brazil
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7
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Mohan A, Raj R R, Mohan G, K P P, Thomas Maliekal T. Reporters of Cancer Stem Cells as a Tool for Drug Discovery. Front Oncol 2021; 11:669250. [PMID: 33968778 PMCID: PMC8100607 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.669250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In view of the importance of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in chemoresistance, metastasis and recurrence, the biology of CSCs were explored in detail. Based on that, several modalities were proposed to target them. In spite of the several clinical trials, a successful CSC-targeting drug is yet to be identified. The number of molecules screened and entered for clinical trial for CSC-targeting is comparatively low, compared to other drugs. The bottle neck is the lack of a high-throughput adaptable screening strategy for CSCs. This review is aimed to identify suitable reporters for CSCs that can be used to identify the heterogeneous CSC populations, including quiescent CSCs, proliferative CSCs, drug resistant CSCs and metastatic CSCs. Analysis of the tumor microenvironment regulating CSCs revealed that the factors in CSC-niche activates effector molecules that function as CSC markers, including pluripotency markers, CD133, ABCG2 and ALDH1A1. Among these factors OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, ABCG2 and ALDH1A1 are ideal for making reporters for CSCs. The pluripotency molecules, like OCT4, SOX2 and NANOG, regulate self-renewal, chemoresistance and metastasis. ABCG2 is a known regulator of drug resistance while ALDH1A1 modulates self-renewal, chemoresistance and metastasis. Considering the heterogeneity of CSCs, including a quiescent population and a proliferative population with metastatic ability, we propose the use of a combination of reporters. A dual reporter consisting of a pluripotency marker and a marker like ALDH1A1 will be useful in screening drugs that target CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrutha Mohan
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India.,Centre for Doctoral Studies, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Reshma Raj R
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Gayathri Mohan
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Padmaja K P
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
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8
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Wong HN, Lewies A, Haigh M, Viljoen JM, Wentzel JF, Haynes RK, du Plessis LH. Anti-Melanoma Activities of Artemisone and Prenylated Amino-Artemisinins in Combination With Known Anticancer Drugs. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:558894. [PMID: 33117161 PMCID: PMC7552967 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.558894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The most frequently occurring cancers are those of the skin, with melanoma being the leading cause of death due to skin cancer. Breakthroughs in chemotherapy have been achieved in certain cases, though only marginal advances have been made in treatment of metastatic melanoma. Strategies aimed at inducing redox dysregulation by use of reactive oxygen species (ROS) inducers present a promising approach to cancer chemotherapy. Here we use a rational combination of an oxidant drug combined with a redox or pro-oxidant drug to optimize the cytotoxic effect. Thus we demonstrate for the first time enhanced activity of the amino-artemisinin artemisone and novel prenylated piperazine derivatives derived from dihydroartemisinin as the oxidant component, and elesclomol-Cu(II) as the redox component, against human malignant melanoma cells A375 in vitro. The combinations caused a dose dependent decrease in cell numbers and increase in apoptosis. The results indicate that oxidant-redox drug combinations have considerable potential and warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Ning Wong
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Angélique Lewies
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Michaela Haigh
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Joe M Viljoen
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Johannes F Wentzel
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Richard K Haynes
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Lissinda H du Plessis
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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9
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Kyriakou G, Melachrinou M. Cancer stem cells, epigenetics, tumor microenvironment and future therapeutics in cutaneous malignant melanoma: a review. Future Oncol 2020; 16:1549-1567. [PMID: 32484008 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-0151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review provides an overview of the current understanding of the ontogeny and biology of melanoma stem cells in cutaneous malignant melanoma. This article also summarizes and evaluates the current knowledge of the underlying epigenetic mechanisms, the regulation of melanoma progress by the tumor microenvironment as well as the therapeutic implications and applications of these novel insights, in the setting of personalized medicine. Unraveling the complex ecosystem of cutaneous malignant melanoma and the interplay between its components, aims to provide novel insights into the establishment of efficient therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Kyriakou
- Department of Dermatology, University General Hospital of Patras, Rion 265 04, Greece
| | - Maria Melachrinou
- Department of Pathology, University General Hospital of Patras, Rion 265 04, Greece
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10
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Erkes DA, Cai W, Sanchez IM, Purwin TJ, Rogers C, Field CO, Berger AC, Hartsough EJ, Rodeck U, Alnemri ES, Aplin AE. Mutant BRAF and MEK Inhibitors Regulate the Tumor Immune Microenvironment via Pyroptosis. Cancer Discov 2020; 10:254-269. [PMID: 31796433 PMCID: PMC7007378 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-19-0672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 273] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Combinations of BRAF inhibitors and MEK inhibitors (BRAFi + MEKi) are FDA-approved to treat BRAF V600E/K-mutant melanoma. Efficacy of BRAFi + MEKi associates with cancer cell death and alterations in the tumor immune microenvironment; however, the links are poorly understood. We show that BRAFi + MEKi caused durable melanoma regression in an immune-mediated manner. BRAFi + MEKi treatment promoted cleavage of gasdermin E (GSDME) and release of HMGB1, markers of pyroptotic cell death. GSDME-deficient melanoma showed defective HMGB1 release, reduced tumor-associated T cell and activated dendritic cell infiltrates in response to BRAFi + MEKi, and more frequent tumor regrowth after drug removal. Importantly, BRAFi + MEKi-resistant disease lacked pyroptosis markers and showed decreased intratumoral T-cell infiltration but was sensitive to pyroptosis-inducing chemotherapy. These data implicate BRAFi + MEKi-induced pyroptosis in antitumor immune responses and highlight new therapeutic strategies for resistant melanoma. SIGNIFICANCE: Targeted inhibitors and immune checkpoint agents have advanced the care of patients with melanoma; however, detailed knowledge of the intersection between these two research areas is lacking. We describe a molecular mechanism of targeted inhibitor regulation of an immune-stimulatory form of cell death and provide a proof-of-principle salvage therapy concept for inhibitor-resistant melanoma.See related commentary by Smalley, p. 176.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 161.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan A Erkes
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Weijia Cai
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ileine M Sanchez
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Timothy J Purwin
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Corey Rogers
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Conroy O Field
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Adam C Berger
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Edward J Hartsough
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ulrich Rodeck
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Emad S Alnemri
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrew E Aplin
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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11
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Onconase Restores Cytotoxicity in Dabrafenib-Resistant A375 Human Melanoma Cells and Affects Cell Migration, Invasion and Colony Formation Capability. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20235980. [PMID: 31783660 PMCID: PMC6928899 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20235980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 09/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a lethal tumor because of its severe metastatic potential, and serine/threonine-protein kinase B-raf inhibitors (BRAFi) are used in patients harboring BRAF-mutation. Unfortunately, BRAFi induce resistance. Therefore, we tested the activity of onconase (ONC), a cytotoxic RNase variant, against BRAFi-resistant cells to re-establish the efficacy of the chemotherapy. To do so, an A375 dabrafenib-resistant (A375DR) melanoma cell subpopulation was selected and its behavior compared with that of parental (A375P) cells by crystal violet, 5-Bromo-2’-deoxyuridine incorporation, and cleaved poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) western blot measurements. Then, nuclear p65 Nuclear Factor kappaB (NF-κB) and IκB kinases-α/β (IKK) phosphorylation levels were measured. Gelatin zymography was performed to evaluate metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) activity. In addition, assays to measure migration, invasion and soft agar colony formation were performed to examine the tumor cell dissemination propensity. ONC affected the total viability and the proliferation rate of both A375P and A375DR cell subpopulations in a dose-dependent manner and also induced apoptotic cell death. Among its pleiotropic effects, ONC reduced nuclear p65 NF-κB amount and IKK phosphorylation level, as well as MMP2 activity in both cell subpopulations. ONC decreased cell colony formation, migration, and invasion capability. Notably, it induced apoptosis and inhibited colony formation and invasiveness more extensively in A375DR than in A375P cells. In conclusion, ONC successfully counteracts melanoma malignancy especially in BRAFi-resistant cells and could become a tool against melanoma recurrence.
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12
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Rossi A, Roberto M, Panebianco M, Botticelli A, Mazzuca F, Marchetti P. Drug resistance of BRAF-mutant melanoma: Review of up-to-date mechanisms of action and promising targeted agents. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 862:172621. [PMID: 31446019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.172621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma onset and progression are associated with a high variety of activating mutations in the MAPK-pathway, most frequently involving BRAF (35-45%) and NRAS (15-25%) genes, but also c-KIT and PTEN. Targeted therapies with BRAF and MEK inhibitors showed promising results over the past years, but it is known that most responses are temporary, and almost all of patients develop a tumor relapse within one year. Different drug-resistance mechanisms underlie the progression of disease and activation of both MAPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways. Therefore, in this article we reviewed the main studies about clinical effects of several target inhibitors, describing properly the most prominent mechanisms of both intrinsic and acquired resistance. Furthermore, suggestive strategies for overcoming drug resistance and the most recent alternative combination therapies to optimize the use of MAPK pathway inhibitors were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rossi
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Roberto
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy; Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Translation Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy.
| | - Martina Panebianco
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Botticelli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Mazzuca
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Marchetti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Oncology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy; Oncology Unit, IDI-IRCCS of Rome, Italy
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Marzagalli M, Raimondi M, Fontana F, Montagnani Marelli M, Moretti RM, Limonta P. Cellular and molecular biology of cancer stem cells in melanoma: Possible therapeutic implications. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 59:221-235. [PMID: 31265892 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is a tumor characterized by a very high level of heterogeneity, responsible for its malignant behavior and ability to escape from standard therapies. In this review we highlight the molecular and biological features of the subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs), well known to be characterized by self-renewal properties, deeply involved in triggering the processes of tumor generation, metastasis, progression and drug resistance. From the molecular point of view, melanoma CSCs are identified and characterized by the expression of stemness markers, such as surface markers, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, embryonic stem cells and intracellular markers. These cells are endowed with different functional features. In particular, they play pivotal roles in the processes of tumor dissemination, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis, mediated by specific intracellular signaling pathways; moreover, they are characterized by a unique metabolic reprogramming. As reported for other types of tumors, the CSCs subpopulation in melanoma is also characterized by a low immunogenic profile as well as by the ability to escape the immune system, through the expression of a negative modulation of T cell functions and the secretion of immunosuppressive factors. These biological features allow melanoma CSCs to escape standard treatments, thus being deeply involved in tumor relapse. Targeting the CSCs subpopulation is now considered an attractive treatment strategy; in particular, combination treatments, based on both CSCs-targeting and standard drugs, will likely increase the therapeutic options for melanoma patients. The characterization of CSCs in liquid biopsies from single patients will pave the way towards precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Marzagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Michela Raimondi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Fontana
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Roberta M Moretti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Patrizia Limonta
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy.
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14
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Lai ZY, Yeo HY, Chen YT, Chang KM, Chen TC, Chuang YJ, Chang SJ. PI3K inhibitor enhances the cytotoxic response to etoposide and cisplatin in a newly established neuroendocrine cervical carcinoma cell line. Oncotarget 2018; 8:45323-45334. [PMID: 28484083 PMCID: PMC5542189 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.17335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroendocrine cervical carcinoma (NECC) is a rare and aggressive subtype of cervical cancer. To date, no NECC cell-based model is available, which hinders the development of new therapeutic strategies for NECC. In this study, we derived a new NECC cell line from an ex vivo biopsy and used it to explore novel drug combination approach for NECC. RESULTS The stable HM-1 cell line displayed high expression levels of the neuroendocrine marker, synaptophysin. HM-1 cell transplantation could induce tumor growth in nude mice. As expected, the combination of etoposide and cisplatin synergistically inhibited HM-1 cell proliferation. Strikingly, when etoposide and cisplatin were combined with PI3K inhibitor BEZ235, the growth of HM-1 cells was significantly reduced. Taken together, the data implied the combination of etoposide and cisplatin with BEZ235 not only inhibited HM-1 cell proliferation but also increased cell apoptosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS A NECC tissue sample from a 75-year-old female patient was processed to derive a primary cell line annotated as HM-1. The features of HM-1 were analyzed to establish its characteristic profile. Next, HM-1 was treated with PI3K inhibitors, BKM120 and/or BEZ235, in combination with two well-known genotoxic drugs, etoposide and/or cisplatin, to evaluate which combination could serve as a more effective treatment approach. Their inhibiting effects on HM-1 were evaluated by cell viability, apoptosis, and target kinase expression. CONCLUSIONS The newly established NECC cell line HM-1 could serve as a cell-based model for NECC research. The synergistic drug combination of PI3K inhibitor with genotoxic drugs might become a potential new treatment strategy against NECC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zih-Yin Lai
- Department of Medical Science and Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
| | - Hsin-Yueh Yeo
- Department of Medical Science and Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
| | - Ya-Tse Chen
- Department of Medical Science and Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
| | - Kuo-Ming Chang
- Department of Pathology, Hsinchu MacKay Memorial Hospital, Hsinchu, 30071, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
| | - Tze-Chien Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
| | - Yung-Jen Chuang
- Department of Medical Science and Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
| | - Shing-Jyh Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hsinchu MacKay Memorial Hospital, Hsinchu, 30071, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
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15
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Kumar D, Gorain M, Kundu G, Kundu GC. Therapeutic implications of cellular and molecular biology of cancer stem cells in melanoma. Mol Cancer 2017; 16:7. [PMID: 28137308 PMCID: PMC5282877 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-016-0578-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a form of cancer that initiates in melanocytes. Melanoma has multiple phenotypically distinct subpopulation of cells, some of them have embryonic like plasticity which are involved in self-renewal, tumor initiation, metastasis and progression and provide reservoir of therapeutically resistant cells. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) can be identified and characterized based on various unique cell surface and intracellular markers. CSCs exhibit different molecular pattern with respect to non-CSCs. They maintain their stemness and chemoresistant features through specific signaling cascades. CSCs are weak in immunogenicity and act as immunosupressor in the host system. Melanoma treatment becomes difficult and survival is greatly reduced when the patient develop metastasis. Standard conventional oncology treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgical resection are only responsible for shrinking the bulk of the tumor mass and tumor tends to relapse. Thus, targeting CSCs and their microenvironment niche addresses the alternative of traditional cancer therapy. Combined use of CSCs targeted and traditional therapies may kill the bulk tumor and CSCs and offer a promising therapeutic strategy for the management of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhiraj Kumar
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, 411007, India
| | - Mahadeo Gorain
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, 411007, India
| | - Gautam Kundu
- Deapartment of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Gopal C Kundu
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, 411007, India.
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