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Piper AK, Penney C, Holliday J, Tincknell G, Ma Y, Napaki S, Pantel K, Brungs D, Ranson M. EGFR and PI3K Signalling Pathways as Promising Targets on Circulating Tumour Cells from Patients with Metastatic Gastric Adenocarcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5565. [PMID: 38791602 PMCID: PMC11122469 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The prognosis for metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma (mGAC) remains poor. Gene alterations in receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and their downstream effectors including catalytic subunit alpha of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PIK3CA) are common in mGAC. Targeted RTK and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) treatments have demonstrated clinical benefits in other solid tumours and are key potential targets for clinical development against mGAC given the presence of recurrent alterations in these pathways. Furthermore, combination RTK/PI3K treatments may overcome compensatory mechanisms that arise using monotherapies, leading to improved patient outcomes. Herein, we investigated RTK/PI3K single and combination drug responses against our unique human mGAC-derived PIK3CA gain-of-function mutant, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, EGFR-expressing circulating tumour cell line, UWG02CTC, under two- and three-dimensional culture conditions to model different stages of metastasis. UWG02CTCs were highly responsive to the PI3K p110α-subunit targeted drugs PIK-75 (IC50 = 37.0 ± 11.1 nM) or alpelisib (7.05 ± 3.7 µM). Drug sensitivities were significantly increased in 3D conditions. Compensatory MAPK/ERK pathway upregulation by PI3K/Akt suppression was overcome by combination treatment with the EGFR inhibitor gefitinib, which was strongly synergistic. PIK-75 plus gefitinib significantly impaired UWG02CTC invasion in an organotypic assay. In conclusion, UWG02CTCs are a powerful ex vivo mGAC drug responsiveness model revealing EGFR/PI3K-targeted drugs as a promising combination treatment option for HER2-negative, RAS wild-type mGAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Katrin Piper
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Chelsea Penney
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Jacqueline Holliday
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Gary Tincknell
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Illawarra Cancer Care Centre, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, NSW 2500, Australia
| | - Yafeng Ma
- Centre for Circulating Tumour Cell Diagnostics & Research at the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, South-Western Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia
| | - Sarbar Napaki
- Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Department of Pathology, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, NSW 2500, Australia
| | - Klaus Pantel
- Institute for Tumor Biology, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Brungs
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Illawarra Cancer Care Centre, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, NSW 2500, Australia
- Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Department of Pathology, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, NSW 2500, Australia
| | - Marie Ranson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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2
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Zhang Y, Shen L, Peng Z. Advances in MET tyrosine kinase inhibitors in gastric cancer. Cancer Biol Med 2024; 21:j.issn.2095-3941.2024.0044. [PMID: 38727001 PMCID: PMC11208904 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2024.0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is among the most frequently occurring cancers and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Because gastric cancer is highly heterogenous and comprised of different subtypes with distinct molecular and clinical characteristics, the management of gastric cancer calls for better-defined, biomarker-guided, molecular-based treatment strategies. MET is a receptor tyrosine kinase mediating important physiologic processes, such as embryogenesis, tissue regeneration, and wound healing. However, mounting evidence suggests that aberrant MET pathway activation contributes to tumour proliferation and metastasis in multiple cancer types, including gastric cancer, and is associated with poor patient outcomes. As such, MET-targeting therapies are being actively developed and promising progress has been demonstrated, especially with MET tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This review aims to briefly introduce the role of MET alterations in gastric cancer and summarize in detail the current progress of MET tyrosine kinase inhibitors in this disease area with a focus on savolitinib, tepotinib, capmatinib, and crizotinib. Building on current knowledge, this review further discusses existing challenges in MET alterations testing, possible resistance mechanisms to MET inhibitors, and future directions of MET-targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Lin Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Beijing Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Zhi Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Beijing Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
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3
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SHAHRANI MESFERAL, GAHTANI REEM, ABOHASSAN MOHAMMAD, ALSHAHRANI MOHAMMAD, ALRAEY YASSER, DERA AYED, ASIRI MOHAMMADRAJEH, RAJAGOPALAN PRASANNA. High-throughput computational screening and in vitro evaluation identifies 5-(4-oxo-4H-3,1-benzoxazin-2-yl)-2-[3-(4-oxo-4H-3,1-benzoxazin-2-yl) phenyl]-1H-isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione (C3), as a novel EGFR-HER2 dual inhibitor in gastric tumors. Oncol Res 2023; 32:251-259. [PMID: 38186572 PMCID: PMC10765126 DOI: 10.32604/or.2023.043139] [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: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancers are caused primarily due to the activation and amplification of the EGFR or HER2 kinases resulting in cell proliferation, adhesion, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Conventional therapies are ineffective due to the intra-tumoral heterogeneity and concomitant genetic mutations. Hence, dual inhibition strategies are recommended to increase potency and reduce cytotoxicity. In this study, we have conducted computational high-throughput screening of the ChemBridge library followed by in vitro assays and identified novel selective inhibitors that have a dual impediment of EGFR/HER2 kinase activities. Diversity-based High-throughput Virtual Screening (D-HTVS) was used to screen the whole ChemBridge small molecular library against EGFR and HER2. The atomistic molecular dynamic simulation was conducted to understand the dynamics and stability of the protein-ligand complexes. EGFR/HER2 kinase enzymes, KATOIII, and Snu-5 cells were used for in vitro validations. The atomistic Molecular Dynamics simulations followed by solvent-based Gibbs binding free energy calculation of top molecules, identified compound C3 (5-(4-oxo-4H-3,1-benzoxazin-2-yl)-2-[3-(4-oxo-4H-3,1-benzoxazin-2-yl) phenyl]-1H-isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione) to have a good affinity for both EGFR and HER2. The predicted compound, C3, was promising with better binding energy, good binding pose, and optimum interactions with the EGFR and HER2 residues. C3 inhibited EGFR and HER2 kinases with IC50 values of 37.24 and 45.83 nM, respectively. The GI50 values of C3 to inhibit KATOIII and Snu-5 cells were 84.76 and 48.26 nM, respectively. Based on these findings, we conclude that the identified compound C3 showed a conceivable dual inhibitory activity on EGFR/HER2 kinase, and therefore can be considered as a plausible lead-like molecule for treating gastric cancers with minimal side effects, though testing in higher models with pharmacokinetic approach is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- MESFER AL SHAHRANI
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - REEM GAHTANI
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - MOHAMMAD ABOHASSAN
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - MOHAMMAD ALSHAHRANI
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - YASSER ALRAEY
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - AYED DERA
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - MOHAMMAD RAJEH ASIRI
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - PRASANNA RAJAGOPALAN
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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4
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Zhang X, Zhang X, Geng D, Zhao C, Wang Y, Fan Y, Gao S, Wei J, Zhang F. Targeted therapy for multiple gene mutations in multiple metastases of advanced gastric cancer: a case report. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1257011. [PMID: 38162498 PMCID: PMC10755568 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1257011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
In China, gastric cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death, after lung cancer. At present, the morbidity and mortality rates of gastric cancer are increasing, and targeted therapy for gastric cancer has become a research hotspot. Herein, we report a patient with multiple metastases from advanced gastric cancer. After identifying MET gene amplification, initial treatment induced regression of the tumor. However, in later stages, due to the overexpression or mutation of HER-2, KRAS, TP53, and other genes, the targeted drug therapy became ineffective, and the disease progressed rapidly, leading to the death of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Xinran Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Dandan Geng
- Department of Neurology, The People’s Hospital of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Chenguang Zhao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Baoding Orthopedic Hospital/People’s Hospital of Lianchi District, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Yingnan Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yao Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Shasha Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jinmei Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Fengbin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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5
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Lemos LMS, Ọlọ Ba-Whẹ Nù OA, Olasupo IA, Balogun SO, Macho A, Pavan E, de Oliveira Martins DT. Brasiliensic acid: in vitro cytotoxic and genotoxic, in vivo acute toxicity and in silico pharmacological prediction of a new promising molecule. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-14. [PMID: 38054294 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2280713] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Brasiliensic acid (Bras) is a chromanone isolated from Calophyllum brasiliense Cambèss. bark extracts with confirmed potential activity on gastric ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection. This study aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo toxicity of Bras and molecular docking studies on its interactions with the H. pylori virulence factors and selected gastric cancer-related proteins. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by alamarBlue© assay, genotoxicity by micronucleus and comet assays, and on cell cycle by flow cytometry, using Chinese hamster epithelial ovary cells. Bras was not cytotoxic to CHO-K1 cells, and caused no chromosomal aberrations, nor altered DNA integrity. Furthermore, Bras inhibited damages to DNA by H2O2 at 1.16 µM. No cell cycle arrest was observed, but apoptosis accounted for 31.2% of the cell death observed in the CHO-K1 at 24 h incubation of the IC50. Oral acute toxicity by Hippocratic screening test in mice showed no relevant behavioral change/mortality seen up to 1,000 mg/kg. The molecular docking approach indicated potential interactions between Bras and the various targets for peptic ulcer and gastric cancer, notably CagA virulence factor of H. pylori and VEGFR-2. In conclusion, Bras is apparently safe and an optimization for Bras can be considered for gastric ulcer and cancer.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Maria Scalon Lemos
- Área de Farmacologia, Departamento de Ciências Básicas em Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
- Área de Farmacologia, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso (Unemat), Cáceres, MT, Brazil
| | | | | | - Sikiru Olaitan Balogun
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde (PPGCS), Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados (UFGD), Dourados, MS, Brazil
| | - Antonio Macho
- Área de Farmacologia, Departamento de Ciências Básicas em Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Morfologia e Imunologia Aplicada (NuPMIA). Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Eduarda Pavan
- Área de Farmacologia, Departamento de Ciências Básicas em Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | - Domingos Tabajara de Oliveira Martins
- Área de Farmacologia, Departamento de Ciências Básicas em Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
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6
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Baccili Cury Megid T, Farooq AR, Wang X, Elimova E. Gastric Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms, Novel Targets, and Immunotherapies: From Bench to Clinical Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5075. [PMID: 37894443 PMCID: PMC10605200 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15205075] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is a global health concern, ranking fifth in cancer diagnoses and fourth in cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite recent advancements in diagnosis, most cases are detected at advanced stages, resulting in poor outcomes. However, recent breakthroughs in genome analysis have identified biomarkers that hold positive clinical significance for GC treatment. These biomarkers and classifications offer the potential for more precise diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for GC patients. In this review, we explore the classification and molecular pathways in this disease, highlighting potential biomarkers that have emerged in recent studies including targeted therapies and immunotherapies. These advancements provide a promising direction for improving the management of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Elena Elimova
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada; (T.B.C.M.); (A.R.F.); (X.W.)
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7
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De Marco K, Lepore Signorile M, Di Nicola E, Sanese P, Fasano C, Forte G, Disciglio V, Pantaleo A, Varchi G, Del Rio A, Grossi V, Simone C. SMYD3 Modulates the HGF/MET Signaling Pathway in Gastric Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:2481. [PMID: 37887325 PMCID: PMC10605494 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202481] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the third most deadly cancer worldwide. Considerable efforts have been made to find targetable drivers in order to improve patient outcomes. MET is one of the most important factors involved in GC initiation and progression as it plays a major role in GC invasiveness and is related to cancer stemness. Unfortunately, treatment strategies targeting MET are still limited, with a proportion of patients responding to therapy but later developing resistance. Here, we showed that MET is a molecular partner of the SMYD3 methyltransferase in GC cells. Moreover, we found that SMYD3 pharmacological inhibition affects the HGF/MET downstream signaling pathway. Extensive cellular analyses in GC models indicated that EM127, a novel active site-selective covalent SMYD3 inhibitor, can be used as part of a synergistic approach with MET inhibitors in order to enhance the targeting of the HGF/MET pathway. Importantly, our data were confirmed in a 3D GC cell culture system, which was used as a surrogate to evaluate stemness characteristics. Our findings identify SMYD3 as a promising therapeutic target to impair the HGF/MET pathway for the treatment of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia De Marco
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Martina Lepore Signorile
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Elisabetta Di Nicola
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Paola Sanese
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Candida Fasano
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Giovanna Forte
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Vittoria Disciglio
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Antonino Pantaleo
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Greta Varchi
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 40129 Bologna, Italy; (G.V.); (A.D.R.)
| | - Alberto Del Rio
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 40129 Bologna, Italy; (G.V.); (A.D.R.)
- Innovamol Consulting Srl, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Grossi
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Cristiano Simone
- Medical Genetics, National Institute for Gastroenterology—IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis” Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (K.D.M.); (M.L.S.); (E.D.N.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (V.D.); (A.P.)
- Medical Genetics, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Jonic Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
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8
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Chen JJ, Jin JM, Gu WJ, Zhao Z, Yuan H, Zhou YD, Nagle DG, Xi QL, Zhang XM, Sun QY, Wu Y, Zhang WD, Luan X. Crizotinib-based proteolysis targeting chimera suppresses gastric cancer by promoting MET degradation. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:1958-1971. [PMID: 36692137 PMCID: PMC10154821 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As one of the common malignant cancer types, gastric cancer (GC) is known for late-stage diagnosis and poor prognosis. Overexpression of the receptor tyrosine kinase MET is associated with poor prognosis among patients with advanced stage GC. However, no MET inhibitor has been used for GC treatment. Like other tyrosine kinase inhibitors that fit the "occupancy-driven" model, current MET inhibitors are prone to acquired resistance. The emerging proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) strategy could overcome such limitations through direct degradation of the target proteins. In this study, we successfully transformed the MET-targeted inhibitor crizotinib into a series of PROTACs, recruiting cereblon/cullin 4A E3 ubiquitin ligase to degrade the MET proteins. The optimized lead PROTAC (PRO-6 E) effectively eliminated MET proteins in vitro and in vivo, inhibiting proliferation and motility of MET-positive GC cells. In the MKN-45 xenograft model, PRO-6 E showed pronounced antitumor efficacy with a well-tolerated dosage regimen. These results validated PRO-6 E as the first oral PROTAC for MET-dependent GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Jiao Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin-Mei Jin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Jie Gu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zeng Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Hu Yuan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Dong Zhou
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Liberal Arts, University of Mississippi, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dale G Nagle
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of BioMolecular Sciences and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Qiu-Lei Xi
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Mei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Yan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Dong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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9
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Röcken C. Predictive biomarkers in gastric cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:467-481. [PMID: 36260159 PMCID: PMC9889517 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04408-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Predictive biomarkers are the mainstay of precision medicine. This review summarizes the advancements in tissue-based diagnostic biomarkers for gastric cancer, which is considered the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. A disease seen in the elderly, it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, thereby limiting therapeutic options. In Western countries, neoadjuvant/perioperative (radio-)chemotherapy is administered, and adjuvant chemotherapy is administered in the East. The morpho-molecular classification of gastric cancer has opened novel avenues identifying Epstein-Barr-Virus (EBV)-positive, microsatellite instable, genomically stable and chromosomal instable gastric cancers. In chromosomal instable tumors, receptor tyrosine kinases (RKTs) (e.g., EGFR, FGFR2, HER2, and MET) are frequently overexpressed. Gastric cancers such as microsatellite instable and EBV-positive types often express immune checkpoint molecules, such as PD-L1 and VISTA. Genomically stable tumors show alterations in claudin 18.2. Next-generation sequencing is increasingly being used to search for druggable targets in advanced palliative settings. However, most tissue-based biomarkers of gastric cancer carry the risk of a sampling error due to intratumoral heterogeneity, and adequate tissue sampling is of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Röcken
- Department of Pathology, Christian-Albrechts-University, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus 14, Haus U33, 24105 Kiel, Germany
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Boilève J, Touchefeu Y, Matysiak-Budnik T. Clinical Management of Gastric Cancer Treatment Regimens. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2023; 444:279-304. [PMID: 38231223 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-47331-9_11] [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: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-associated death in the world. Endoscopic resection can be the treatment in selected cases of very early gastric cancer. Surgery is recommended for tumors that do not meet the criteria for endoscopic resection or for tumors with lymph node invasion but without distant metastases. Gastrectomy should include D2 lymphadenectomy without splenectomy. Perioperative or adjuvant chemotherapy improves survival and is recommended in locally advanced gastric cancer (>T1 and/or with lymph nodes positive). In locally advanced cancer with microsatellite instability (MSI), immunotherapy should be considered. Advanced unresectable or metastatic gastric cancer has a poor prognosis. The basis of the treatment is cytotoxic chemotherapy, with platinum and fluoropyrimidine doublet in the first line. Targeted therapies can be combined with chemotherapy. Trastuzumab (anti-HER2) is recommended in the first line in HER2-positive cancer. Ramucirumab (anti-VEGFR2) is recommended in the second line, in addition to paclitaxel chemotherapy. Zolbetuximab (anti-Claudine 18.2) should also be considered in the first line in Claudine 18.2-positive cancer. Immunotherapy can also be associated with chemotherapy in the first line of PD-L1-positive cancer. In HER2-positive and PD-L1-positive cancer, adjunction of trastuzumab and immunotherapy should be considered. In advanced and metastatic cancer with microsatellite instability (MSI), immunotherapy should be the first choice depending on its availability. Important progress has been made in recent years in the treatment of gastric cancer, especially due to a better understanding of molecular characteristics and heterogeneity of this disease. New targets and therapeutic approaches are being developed, which will very likely lead to changes in the management of gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Boilève
- Institut Des Maladies de L'Appareil Digestif (IMAD), Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Inserm CIC 1413, 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Yann Touchefeu
- Institut Des Maladies de L'Appareil Digestif (IMAD), Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Inserm CIC 1413, 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Tamara Matysiak-Budnik
- Institut Des Maladies de L'Appareil Digestif (IMAD), Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Inserm CIC 1413, 44000, Nantes, France.
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Chu PY, Huang WC, Tung SL, Tsai CY, Chen CJ, Liu YC, Lee CW, Lin YH, Lin HY, Chen CY, Yeh CT, Lin KH, Chi HC. IFITM3 promotes malignant progression, cancer stemness and chemoresistance of gastric cancer by targeting MET/AKT/FOXO3/c-MYC axis. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:124. [PMID: 35941699 PMCID: PMC9361616 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00858-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Targeting the HGF/MET signaling pathway has been a viable therapeutic strategy for various cancer types due to hyperactivation of HGF/MET axis occurs frequently that leads to detrimental cancer progression and recurrence. Deciphering novel molecule mechanisms underlying complex HGF/MET signaling network is therefore critical to development of effective therapeutics for treating MET-dependent malignancies. Results Using isobaric mass tag-based quantitative proteomics approach, we identified IFITM3, an interferon-induced transmembrane protein that was highly expressed in micro-dissected gastric cancer (GC) tumor regions relative to adjacent non-tumor epithelia. Analyses of GC clinical specimens revealed that expression IFITM3 was closely correlated to advanced pathological stages. IFITM3 has been reported as a PIP3 scaffold protein that promotes PI3K signaling. In present study, we unprecedentedly unraveled that IFITM3 associated with MET and AKT to facilitate HGF/MET mediated AKT signaling crosstalk in suppressing FOXO3, consequently leading to c-MYC mediated GC progression. In addition, gene ontology analyses of the clinical GC cohort revealed significant correlation between IFITM3-associated genes and targets of c-MYC, which is a crucial downstream effector of HGF/MET pathway in cancer progression. Moreover, we demonstrated ectopic expression of IFITM3 suppressed FOXO3 expression, consequently led to c-MYC induction to promote tumor growth, cell metastasis, cancer stemness as well as chemoresistance. Conversely, depletion of IFITM3 resulted in suppression of HGF triggered cellular growth and migration via inhibition of AKT/c-MYC signaling in GC. Conclusions In summary, our present study unveiled a novel regulatory mechanism for c-MYC-driven oncogenesis underlined by IFITM3-mediated signaling crosstalk between MET associated AKT signaling cascade. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-022-00858-8.
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Wang Y, Liu T, Chen G, Gong J, Bai Y, Zhang T, Xu N, Liu L, Xu J, He J, Liu Y, Zhang L, Jiang D, Wang M, Chang J, Li W, Bai C, Zhou J, Wang J, Ren Y, Zhang L, Su W, Liu, B, Shen L. Phase Ia/Ib Study of the Selective MET Inhibitor, Savolitinib, in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors:
Safety, Efficacy, and Biomarkers. Oncologist 2022; 27:oyab066. [PMID: 35445725 PMCID: PMC9074963 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyab066] [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: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Savolitinib has shown good tolerability and preliminary efficacy, but efficacy biomarkers require investigation. The main purpose of this study was to confirm in Chinese patients the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of savolitinib and to explore overall benefit in tumors bearing c-Met aberration. METHODS This was an open-label, multi-center, 2-part phase I study. A starting dose of 600 mg QD was initiated in the escalation phase, utilizing a 3+3 design with repeated QD and BID dosing. In the dose expansion phase, we enrolled patients with gastric cancer and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with documented c-met aberration into 5 cohorts to further explore biomarkers. c-Met overexpression and amplification were assessed by immunohistochemistry and FISH, respectively. RESULTS The safety analysis set included 85 patients. Only one dose-limiting toxicity (grade 3 fatigue) was reported in the 600 mg BID dosing group. The most frequent treatment-related adverse events were nausea (29.4%), vomiting (27.1%), and peripheral edema (21.2%). Notably, in gastric cancer, response was only observed in patients with MET amplification (copy number 9.7-18.4), with an objective response rate of 35.7% and a disease control rate of 64.3%. For patients with NSCLC bearing a MET exon 14 skipping mutation, obvious target lesion shrinkage was observed in 2 of 4 patients, although PR was not achieved. CONCLUSION The RP2D of savolitinib was established as 600 mg QD or 500 mg BID in Chinese patients. The promising response observed in patients with gastric cancer with c-met amplification and NSCLC with MET exon 14 skipping mutation warrants further investigation. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV IDENTIFIER NCT0198555.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yakun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Early Drug Development Center, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tianshu Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, and Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Gongyan Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jifang Gong
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology/Early Drug Development Center, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuxian Bai
- Gastrointestinal Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Nong Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Liu
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianming Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, The Fifth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianxing He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery/Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yunpeng Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Da Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengzhao Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianhua Chang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenzhen Center, Shenzhen, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Li
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chunmei Bai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinghong Zhou
- Hutchison China MediTech Limited, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Wang
- Hutchison China MediTech Limited, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongxin Ren
- Hutchison China MediTech Limited, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liya Zhang
- Hutchison China MediTech Limited, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weiguo Su
- Hutchison China MediTech Limited, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Baorui Liu,
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Shen
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology/Early Drug Development Center, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Huang WC, Yen JH, Sung YW, Tung SL, Chen PM, Chu PY, Shih YC, Chi HC, Huang YC, Huang SJ, Wang LH. Novel function of THEMIS2 in the enhancement of cancer stemness and chemoresistance by releasing PTP1B from MET. Oncogene 2022; 41:997-1010. [PMID: 34974522 PMCID: PMC8837547 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-02136-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) possesses poor prognosis mainly due to lack of effective endocrine or targeted therapies, aggressive nature and high rate of chemoresistance. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to play critical roles in cancer recurrence and chemoresistance. THEMIS2 was identified as the sole common elevated gene in three triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and two ovarian CSC lines. We discovered an intrinsic signaling scaffold function of THEMIS2, which acts as a novel regulator of cancer stemness in promoting multiple cancer stemness properties including sphere formation, stemness markers expression, chemoresistance and tumorigenicity with low numbers of cancer cells implantation. For the first time, we demonstrated that THEMIS2 specifically enhanced MET activating phosphorylation by suppressing the association of protein-tyrosine phosphatases 1B (PTP1B) with p-MET and MET, which accounted mainly for THEMIS2-mediated effect on cancer stemness and chemoresistance. Increased THEMIS2 expression was associated with poor survival in TNBC patients and in patients from our breast cancer cohort. We found that non-cytotoxic dosages of cryptotanshinone (CPT) could potently inhibit cancer stemness, chemoresistance and tumorigenicity by suppressing expression of THEMIS2. Notably, stable overexpression of THEMIS2 is associated with enhanced sensitivity toward Capmatinib and CPT treatment. Expression levels of THEMIS2 and p-MET protein were positively correlated in the 465 breast cancer specimens. Our study revealed the novel oncogenic role of THEMIS2 and its underlying mechanism via suppressing PTP1B association with MET and thus leading to its activation. Our findings suggest that THEMIS2 could be a biomarker for MET targeted therapy and also provide a potential clinical application using low dosages of CPT for treatment of THEMIS2 positive TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chieh Huang
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Hau Yen
- Research Cancer Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Sung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecologics, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Shiao-Lin Tung
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ton-Yen General Hospital, Hsinchu County, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Hsin Sheng Junior College of Medical Care and Management, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Po-Ming Chen
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yi Chu
- Department of Pathology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Chung-Shang Road, Changhua County, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chi Shih
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Cheng Chi
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ching Huang
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jei Huang
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Lu-Hai Wang
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Novel Biomarkers of Gastric Adenocarcinoma: Current Research and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225660. [PMID: 34830815 PMCID: PMC8616337 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Gastric cancer is characterized by poor survival rates despite surgery and chemotherapy. Current research focuses on biomarkers to improve diagnosis and prognosis, and to enable targeted treatment strategies. The aim of our review was to give an overview over the wide range of novel biomarkers in gastric cancer. These biomarkers are targets of a specific treatment, such as antibodies against human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. Other promising biomarkers for targeted therapies that have shown relevance in clinical trials are vascular endothelial growth factor, programmed cell death protein 1, and Claudin 18.2. There is a vast number of biomarkers based on DNA, RNA, and protein expression, as well as detection of circulating tumor cells and the immune tumor microenvironment. Abstract Overall survival of gastric cancer remains low, as patients are often diagnosed with advanced stage disease. In this review, we give an overview of current research on biomarkers in gastric cancer and their implementation in treatment strategies. The HER2-targeting trastuzumab is the first molecular targeted agent approved for gastric cancer treatment. Other promising biomarkers for targeted therapies that have shown relevance in clinical trials are VEGF and Claudin 18.2. Expression of MET has been shown to be a negative prognostic factor in gastric cancer. Targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway with immune checkpoint inhibitors has proven efficacy in advanced gastric cancer. Recent technology advances allow the detection of circulating tumor cells that may be used as diagnostic and prognostic indicators and for therapy monitoring in gastric cancer patients. Prognostic molecular subtypes of gastric cancer have been identified using genomic data. In addition, transcriptome profiling has allowed a comprehensive characterization of the immune and stromal microenvironment in gastric cancer and development of novel risk scores. These prognostic and predictive markers highlight the rapidly evolving field of research in gastric cancer, promising improved treatment stratification and identification of molecular targets for individualized treatment in gastric cancer.
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Tanaka R, Terai M, Londin E, Sato T. The Role of HGF/MET Signaling in Metastatic Uveal Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215457. [PMID: 34771620 PMCID: PMC8582360 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215457] [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: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET) signaling plays an important role in the metastatic formation and therapeutic resistance to uveal melanoma. Here, we review the various functions of MET signaling contributing to metastatic formation, as well as review resistance to treatments in metastatic uveal melanoma. Abstract Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET) signaling promotes tumorigenesis and tumor progression in various types of cancer, including uveal melanoma (UM). The roles of HGF/MET signaling have been studied in cell survival, proliferation, cell motility, and migration. Furthermore, HGF/MET signaling has emerged as a critical player not only in the tumor itself but also in the tumor microenvironment. Expression of MET is frequently observed in metastatic uveal melanoma and is associated with poor prognosis. It has been reported that HGF/MET signaling pathway activation is the major mechanism of treatment resistance in metastatic UM (MUM). To achieve maximal therapeutic benefit in MUM patients, it is important to understand how MET signaling drives cellular functions in uveal melanoma cells. Here, we review the HGF/MET signaling biology and the role of HGF/MET blockades in uveal melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Tanaka
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (R.T.); (T.S.)
| | - Mizue Terai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (R.T.); (T.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-215-955-4780
| | - Eric Londin
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA;
| | - Takami Sato
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (R.T.); (T.S.)
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16
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Molecular Targets for Gastric Cancer Treatment and Future Perspectives from a Clinical and Translational Point of View. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205216. [PMID: 34680363 PMCID: PMC8533881 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is a leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Systemic treatment comprising chemotherapy and targeted therapy is the standard of care in advanced/metastatic gastric cancer. Comprehensive molecular characterization of gastric adenocarcinomas by the TCGA Consortium and ACRG has resulted in the definition of distinct molecular subtypes. These efforts have in parallel built a basis for the development of novel molecularly stratified treatment approaches. Based on this molecular characterization, an increasing number of specific genomic alterations can potentially serve as treatment targets. Consequently, the development of promising compounds is ongoing. In this review, key molecular alterations in gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancers will be addressed. Finally, the current status of the translation of targeted therapy towards clinical applications will be reviewed.
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Abdel-Rahman O, Mulder K, Easaw J. Outcomes of Ramucirumab Plus Paclitaxel Among Patients With Previously Treated Metastatic Gastric/Lower Esophageal Cancer: A Real-world Study. Am J Clin Oncol 2021; 44:158-161. [PMID: 33625121 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000000799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to review real-world patterns of chemotherapy utilization among patients with metastatic gastric/lower esophageal adenocarcinoma with particular focus on the use of ramucirumab plus paclitaxel in previously treated patients. METHODS This is a retrospective, registry-based study using datasets from Alberta Cancer Registry and other provincial databases in Alberta, Canada. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with palliative chemotherapy use. Among patients who received >1 line of chemotherapy, Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were used to compare outcomes according to ramucirumab plus paclitaxel use. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was then used to identify factors associated with overall survival (OS) in this cohort. RESULTS A total of 1590 patients were included (including 1070 gastric patients and 520 lower esophageal patients). The following factors were associated with use of palliative chemotherapy: younger age (odds ratio with increasing age: 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.94-0.95), and lower Charlson Comorbidity Index (odds ratio with increasing index: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.74-0.91). Within the subcohort of patients who received >1 line of chemotherapy, use of ramucirumab/paclitaxel was associated with better OS (P=0.033). Multivariable Cox regression analysis suggested that the following factors are associated with better OS: use of ramucirumab/paclitaxel (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.07-2.29) and living within urban zones including Calgary or Edmonton zones (vs. Northern zone) (HR for Calgary zone vs. Northern zone: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.23-0.85; HR for Edmonton zone vs. Northern zone: 0.41; 95% CI: 0.22-0.77). CONCLUSIONS Use of paclitaxel/ramucirumab combination beyond first-line treatment is associated with improved OS among patients with metastatic gastric/lower esophageal adenocarcinoma in this real-world study. Further work is needed to reduce disparity in our health care system between individuals living in rural versus urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Abdel-Rahman
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Moosavi F, Giovannetti E, Peters GJ, Firuzi O. Combination of HGF/MET-targeting agents and other therapeutic strategies in cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 160:103234. [PMID: 33497758 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MET receptor has emerged as a druggable target across several human cancers. Agents targeting MET and its ligand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) including small molecules such as crizotinib, tivantinib and cabozantinib or antibodies including rilotumumab and onartuzumab have proven their values in different tumors. Recently, capmatinib was approved for treatment of metastatic lung cancer with MET exon 14 skipping. In this review, we critically examine the current evidence on how HGF/MET combination therapies may take advantage of synergistic effects, overcome primary or acquired drug resistance, target tumor microenvironment, modulate drug metabolism or tackle pharmacokinetic issues. Preclinical and clinical studies on the combination of HGF/MET-targeted agents with conventional chemotherapeutics or molecularly targeted treatments (including EGFR, VEGFR, HER2, RAF/MEK, and PI3K/Akt targeting agents) and also the value of biomarkers are examined. Our deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying successful pharmacological combinations is crucial to find the best personalized treatment regimens for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Moosavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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