1
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Ali A, Grillone K, Ascrizzi S, Caridà G, Fiorillo L, Ciliberto D, Staropoli N, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Di Martino MT. LNA-i-miR-221 activity in colorectal cancer: A reverse translational investigation. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102221. [PMID: 38868363 PMCID: PMC11168481 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies and a relevant cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Dysregulation of microRNA (miRNA) expression has been associated with the development and progression of various cancers, including CRC. Among them, miR-221 emerged as an oncogenic driver, whose high expression is associated with poor patient prognosis. The present study was conceived to investigate the anti-CRC activity of miR-221 silencing based on early clinical data achieved from a first-in-human study by our group. Going back from bedside to bench, we demonstrated that LNA-i-miR-221 reduces cell viability, induces apoptosis in vitro, and impairs tumor growth in preclinical in vivo models of CRC. Importantly, we disclosed that miR-221 directly targets TP53BP2, which, together with TP53INP1, is known as a positive regulator of the TP53 apoptotic pathway. We found that (1) both these genes are overexpressed following miR-221 inhibition, (2) the strong anti-tumor activity of LNA-i-miR-221 was selectively observed on TP53 wild-type cells, and (3) this activity was reduced in the presence of the TP53-inhibitor Pifitrin-α. Our data pave the way to further investigations on TP53 functionality as a marker predictive of response to miR-221 silencing, which might be relevant for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asad Ali
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Katia Grillone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Serena Ascrizzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giulio Caridà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Lucia Fiorillo
- Phase 1 and Translational Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Domenico Ciliberto
- Phase 1 and Translational Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Staropoli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Phase 1 and Translational Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Phase 1 and Translational Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Phase 1 and Translational Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, AOU Renato Dulbecco, Catanzaro, Italy
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2
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Tarab‐Ravski D, Hazan‐Halevy I, Goldsmith M, Stotsky‐Oterin L, Breier D, Naidu GS, Aitha A, Diesendruck Y, Ng BD, Barsheshet H, Berger T, Vaxman I, Raanani P, Peer D. Delivery of Therapeutic RNA to the Bone Marrow in Multiple Myeloma Using CD38-Targeted Lipid Nanoparticles. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301377. [PMID: 37171801 PMCID: PMC10375190 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cancer of differentiated plasma cells that occurs in the bone marrow (BM). Despite the recent advancements in drug development, most patients with MM eventually relapse and the disease remains incurable. RNA therapy delivered via lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) has the potential to be a promising cancer treatment, however, its clinical implementation is limited due to inefficient delivery to non-hepatic tissues. Here, targeted (t)LNPs designed for delivery of RNA payload to MM cells are presented. The tLNPs consist of a novel ionizable lipid and are coated with an anti-CD38 antibody (αCD38-tLNPs). To explore their therapeutic potential, it is demonstrated that LNPs encapsulating small interference RNA (siRNA) against cytoskeleton-associated protein 5 (CKAP5) lead to a ≈90% decrease in cell viability of MM cells in vitro. Next, a new xenograft MM mouse model is employed, which clinically resembles the human disease and demonstrates efficient homing of MM cells to the BM. Specific delivery of αCD38-tLNPs to BM-residing and disseminated MM cells and the improvement in therapeutic outcome of MM-bearing mice treated with αCD38-tLNPs-siRNA-CKAP5 are shown. These results underscore the potential of RNA therapeutics for treatment of MM and the importance of developing effective targeted delivery systems and reliable preclinical models.
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3
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Chu TH, Vo MC, Park HS, Lakshmi TJ, Jung SH, Kim HJ, Lee JJ. Potent anti-myeloma efficacy of dendritic cell therapy in combination with pomalidomide and programmed death-ligand 1 blockade in a preclinical model of multiple myeloma. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2020; 70:31-45. [PMID: 32623477 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-020-02654-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines are recognized as a promising immunotherapeutic strategy against cancer; however, the efficacy of immunotherapy with DCs is controlled via immune checkpoints, such as programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). PD-L1 expressed on DC and tumor cells binds to programmed death-1 (PD-1) receptors on the activated T cells, which leads to the inhibition of cytotoxic T cells. Blocking of PD-L1 on DC may lead to improve the efficacy of DC therapy for cancer. Here we demonstrated that DC vaccination in combination with pomalidomide and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) blockade inhibited tumor growth of a multiple myeloma (MM) mouse model. DCs + pomalidomide with dexamethasone + PD-L1 blockade significantly inhibited immune immunosuppressive factors and promoted proportions of immune effector cells in the spleen and tumor microenvironment. Additionally, functional activities of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and NK cells in spleen were enhanced by DCs + pomalidomide with dexamethasone + PD-L1 blockade. Taken together, this study identifies a potential new therapeutic approach for the treatment of MM. These results also provide a foundation for the future development of immunotherapeutic modalities to inhibit tumor growth and restore immune function in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tan-Huy Chu
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Manh-Cuong Vo
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea.,Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, 322 Seoyangro, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, 519-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Seong Park
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Thangaraj Jaya Lakshmi
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hoon Jung
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, 322 Seoyangro, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, 519-763, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyeoung-Joon Kim
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, 322 Seoyangro, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, 519-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Je-Jung Lee
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, 322 Seoyangro, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, 519-763, Republic of Korea. .,Vaxcell-Bio Therapeutics, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Raimondi L, De Luca A, Giavaresi G, Barone A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Amodio N. Impact of Natural Dietary Agents on Multiple Myeloma Prevention and Treatment: Molecular Insights and Potential for Clinical Translation. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:187-215. [PMID: 29956610 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180629153141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Chemoprevention is based on the use of non-toxic, pharmacologically active agents to prevent tumor progression. In this regard, natural dietary agents have been described by the most recent literature as promising tools for controlling onset and progression of malignancies. Extensive research has been so far performed to shed light on the effects of natural products on tumor growth and survival, disclosing the most relevant signal transduction pathways targeted by such compounds. Overall, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and cytotoxic effects of dietary agents on tumor cells are supported either by results from epidemiological or animal studies and even by clinical trials. Multiple myeloma is a hematologic malignancy characterized by abnormal proliferation of bone marrow plasma cells and subsequent hypercalcemia, renal dysfunction, anemia, or bone disease, which remains incurable despite novel emerging therapeutic strategies. Notably, increasing evidence supports the capability of dietary natural compounds to antagonize multiple myeloma growth in preclinical models of the disease, underscoring their potential as candidate anti-cancer agents. In this review, we aim at summarizing findings on the anti-tumor activity of dietary natural products, focusing on their molecular mechanisms, which include inhibition of oncogenic signal transduction pathways and/or epigenetic modulating effects, along with their potential clinical applications against multiple myeloma and its related bone disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Agnese Barone
- Hospice Cascina Brandezzata-Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine Catanzaro, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine Catanzaro, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine Catanzaro, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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5
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Yuan J, Su Z, Gu W, Shen X, Zhao Q, Shi L, Jin C, Wang X, Cong H, Ju S. MiR-19b and miR-20a suppress apoptosis, promote proliferation and induce tumorigenicity of multiple myeloma cells by targeting PTEN. Cancer Biomark 2019; 24:279-289. [PMID: 30883341 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-182182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a common hematological malignancy that is often associated with osteolytic lesions, anemia and renal impairment. Deregulation of miRNA has been implicated in the pathogenesis of MM. It was found in our study that miR-19b and miR-20a as members of crucial oncogene miR-17-92 cluster were differentially expressed between patients with MM and normal controls by genechip microarray, and this result was further confirmed in sera of patients with MM by qRT-PCR. The functional effect of miR-19b/20a was analyzed and results showed that miR-19b/20a promoted cell proliferation and migration, inhibited cell apoptosis and altered cell cycle in MM cells. PTEN protein expression was reduced after transfection of miR-19b/20a, suggesting that PTEN was a direct target of miR-19b/20a. In addition, over-expression of miR-19b/20a reversed the anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis effect of PTEN in MM cells. Finally, our in vivo experiment demonstrated that lentivirus-mediated delivery of miR-20a promoted tumor growth in murine xenograft model of MM, which provide evidence that miR-20a inhibitor exerts therapeutic activity in preclinical models and supports a framework for the development of miR-19b/20a-based treatment strategies for MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | | | - Wenchao Gu
- Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xianjuan Shen
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | | | | | - Chunjing Jin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xudong Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui Cong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shaoqing Ju
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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6
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Maes K, Boeckx B, Vlummens P, De Veirman K, Menu E, Vanderkerken K, Lambrechts D, De Bruyne E. The genetic landscape of 5T models for multiple myeloma. Sci Rep 2018; 8:15030. [PMID: 30301958 PMCID: PMC6177465 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33396-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Murine models for multiple myeloma (MM) are often used to investigate pathobiology of multiple myeloma and disease progression. Unlike transgenic mice models, where it is known which oncogene is driving MM disease, the somatic aberrations of spontaneous syngeneic 5T models of MM have not yet been reported. Here, we analyzed the copy-number alterations (CNA) and mutational landscape of 5T2, 5T33vv and 5TGM1 murine MM models using whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing. Forty four percent of the genome of 5T2 cells is affected by CNAs while this was only 11% and 17% for 5T33vv and 5TGM1 cells, respectively. We found that up to 69% of the genes linked to gain of 1q or deletion of 13q in MM patients are present as respectively gains in 5T2 cells or deletions in 5T33 and 5TGM1 cells. Exome sequencing furthermore revealed mutations of genes involved in RAS/MAPK, PI3K/AKT1 and JAK/STAT signaling, DNA damage response, cell cycle, epigenetic regulation and extracellular matrix organization. We observed a statistically significant overlap of genes mutated in the 5T models and MM patients. Overall, the genetic landscape of the 5T models is heterogeneous with a high number of aberrations involving genes in various multiple myeloma-related pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Maes
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, Myeloma Center Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, 1090, Belgium.
| | - Bram Boeckx
- Laboratory for Translational Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, VIB Center for Cancer Biology, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - Philip Vlummens
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, Myeloma Center Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, 1090, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Kim De Veirman
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, Myeloma Center Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, 1090, Belgium
| | - Eline Menu
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, Myeloma Center Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, 1090, Belgium
| | - Karin Vanderkerken
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, Myeloma Center Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, 1090, Belgium
| | - Diether Lambrechts
- Laboratory for Translational Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, VIB Center for Cancer Biology, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - Elke De Bruyne
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, Myeloma Center Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, 1090, Belgium
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7
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Vo MC, Yang S, Jung SH, Chu TH, Lee HJ, Lakshmi TJ, Park HS, Kim HJ, Lee JJ. Synergistic Antimyeloma Activity of Dendritic Cells and Pomalidomide in a Murine Myeloma Model. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1798. [PMID: 30123221 PMCID: PMC6085413 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown that immunization with tumor antigen-loaded dendritic cells (DCs) and the immunomodulating drug, lenalidomide, synergistically potentiates the enhancing antitumor immunity in a myeloma mouse model. In this study, we investigated the immunogenicity of DCs combined with pomalidomide and dexamethasone in a myeloma mouse model. MOPC-315 cells were injected subcutaneously to establish myeloma-bearing mice. Four test groups were used to mimic clinical protocol: (1) PBS control, (2) DCs, (3) pomalidomide + dexamethasone, and (4) DCs + pomalidomide + dexamethasone. The combination of DCs plus pomalidomide and dexamethasone displayed greater inhibition of tumor growth compared to the other groups. This effect was closely related with reduced numbers of immune suppressor cells including myeloid-derived suppressor cells, M2 macrophages, and regulatory T cells, with the induction of immune effector cells such as CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, memory T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and M1 macrophages, and with the activation of T lymphocytes and NK cells in the spleen. Moreover, the level of the immunosuppressive factor vascular endothelial growth factor was significantly reduced in the tumor microenvironment. The collective findings in the murine myeloma model suggest that tumor antigen-loaded DCs combined with pomalidomide and dexamethasone synergistically enhance antitumor immunity by skewing the immune-suppressive status toward an immune-supportive status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manh-Cuong Vo
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea.,Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea
| | - Seoyun Yang
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea
| | - Sung-Hoon Jung
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea.,Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea
| | - Tan-Huy Chu
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea
| | - Hyun-Ju Lee
- Vaxcell-Bio Therapeutics, Hwasun, South Korea
| | - Thangaraj Jaya Lakshmi
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea
| | - Hye-Seong Park
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea
| | - Hyeoung-Joon Kim
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea
| | - Je-Jung Lee
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea.,Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, South Korea.,Vaxcell-Bio Therapeutics, Hwasun, South Korea
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8
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Rossi M, Botta C, Arbitrio M, Grembiale RD, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Mouse models of multiple myeloma: technologic platforms and perspectives. Oncotarget 2018; 9:20119-20133. [PMID: 29732008 PMCID: PMC5929451 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Murine models of human multiple myeloma (MM) are key tools for the study of disease biology as well as for investigation and selection of novel candidate therapeutics for clinical translation. In the last years, a variety of pre-clinical models have been generated to recapitulate a wide spectrum of biological features of MM. These systems range from spontaneous or transgenic models of murine MM, to subcutaneous or orthothopic xenografts of human MM cell lines in immune compromised animals, to platform allowing the engraftment of primary/bone marrow-dependent MM cells within a human bone marrow milieu to fully recapitulate human disease. Selecting the right model for specific pre-clinical research is essential for the successful completion of investigation. We here review recent and most known pre-clinical murine, transgenic and humanized models of MM, focusing on major advantages and/or weaknesses in the light of different research aims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rossi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Cirino Botta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Mariamena Arbitrio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy.,Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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9
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Wallington-Beddoe CT, Bennett MK, Vandyke K, Davies L, Zebol JR, Moretti PAB, Pitman MR, Hewett DR, Zannettino ACW, Pitson SM. Sphingosine kinase 2 inhibition synergises with bortezomib to target myeloma by enhancing endoplasmic reticulum stress. Oncotarget 2018; 8:43602-43616. [PMID: 28467788 PMCID: PMC5546428 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.17115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The proteasome inhibitor bortezomib has proven to be invaluable in the treatment of myeloma. By exploiting the inherent high immunoglobulin protein production of malignant plasma cells, bortezomib induces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR), resulting in myeloma cell death. In most cases, however, the disease remains incurable highlighting the need for new therapeutic targets. Sphingosine kinase 2 (SK2) has been proposed as one such therapeutic target for myeloma. Our observations that bortezomib and SK2 inhibitors independently elicited induction of ER stress and the UPR prompted us to examine potential synergy between these agents in myeloma. Targeting SK2 synergistically contributed to ER stress and UPR activation induced by bortezomib, as evidenced by activation of the IRE1 pathway and stress kinases JNK and p38MAPK, thereby resulting in potent synergistic myeloma apoptosis in vitro. The combination of bortezomib and SK2 inhibition also exhibited strong in vivo synergy and favourable effects on bone disease. Therefore, our studies suggest that perturbations of sphingolipid signalling can synergistically enhance the effects seen with proteasome inhibition, highlighting the potential for the combination of these two modes of increasing ER stress to be formally evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of myeloma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig T Wallington-Beddoe
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.,SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Melissa K Bennett
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.,SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kate Vandyke
- SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Australia.,South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Lorena Davies
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.,SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Julia R Zebol
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.,SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Paul A B Moretti
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.,SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Melissa R Pitman
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.,SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Duncan R Hewett
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Australia.,South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Andrew C W Zannettino
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.,SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Australia.,South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stuart M Pitson
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.,SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Australia
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10
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Ma J, Gong W, Liu S, Li Q, Guo M, Wang J, Wang S, Chen N, Wang Y, Liu Q, Zhao H. Ibrutinib targets microRNA-21 in multiple myeloma cells by inhibiting NF-κB and STAT3. Tumour Biol 2018; 40:1010428317731369. [PMID: 29320977 DOI: 10.1177/1010428317731369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The oncogenic microRNA-21 contributes to the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma. Ibrutinib (also referred to as PCI-32765), an inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosine kinase, while its effects on multiple myeloma have not been well described. Here, we show that microRNA-21 is an oncogenic marker closely linked with progression of multiple myeloma. Moreover, ibrutinib attenuates microRNA-21 expression in multiple myeloma cells by inhibiting nuclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling pathways. Taken together, our results suggest that ibrutinib is a promising potential treatment for multiple myeloma. Further investigation of mechanisms of ibrutinib function in multiple myeloma will be necessary to evaluate its use as a novel multiple myeloma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- 1 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy and Department of Hematology and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- 2 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology and Food Science, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin, China
- 3 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Gong
- 3 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Su Liu
- 1 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy and Department of Hematology and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Li
- 1 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy and Department of Hematology and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- 3 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Mengzheng Guo
- 3 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinhan Wang
- 3 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Suying Wang
- 2 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology and Food Science, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin, China
| | - Naiyao Chen
- 4 Department of Hematology and Tangshan Key Laboratory, Translational Medical Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Yafei Wang
- 1 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy and Department of Hematology and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- 3 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- 2 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology and Food Science, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin, China
- 4 Department of Hematology and Tangshan Key Laboratory, Translational Medical Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
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11
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Abstract
microRNAs are important in cancer biogenesis and development. However, their underlying mechanisms in multiple myeloma (MM) are barely characterized. microRNA-20a (miR-20a) is a member of the microRNA-17-92 cluster. It has been implicated in various cancers, regulating the proliferation and invasion of cancer cells in vitro. Compared with healthy donors, it also has been reported to be elevated in plasma of MM patients. Here, we investigated the function of miR-20a. Our results showed that it promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of MM cells in vitro by inhibiting early growth response protein 2. The effects of miR-20a were also evaluated in MM xenograft models of SCID/NOD mice. Apparent antitumor activity was achieved in xenograft mice injected with miR-20a inhibitor, while mimics of miR-20a significantly promoted tumor growth. These data indicate that miR-20a plays a crucial role in the biology of MM and represents a potential target for novel therapies for MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Liaocheng City
| | - Shengli Li
- Department of Hematology, Jining No. 1 People's Hospital.,Department of Hematology, Institute of Biotherapy for Hematological Malignancies, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University, Jining, Shandong, China
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12
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Pitari MR, Rossi M, Amodio N, Botta C, Morelli E, Federico C, Gullà A, Caracciolo D, Di Martino MT, Arbitrio M, Giordano A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Inhibition of miR-21 restores RANKL/OPG ratio in multiple myeloma-derived bone marrow stromal cells and impairs the resorbing activity of mature osteoclasts. Oncotarget 2016; 6:27343-58. [PMID: 26160841 PMCID: PMC4694994 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.4398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
miR-21 is an oncogenic microRNA (miRNA) with an emerging role as therapeutic target in human malignancies, including multiple myeloma (MM). Here we investigated whether miR-21 is involved in MM-related bone disease (BD). We found that miR-21 expression is dramatically enhanced, while osteoprotegerin (OPG) is strongly reduced, in bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) adherent to MM cells. On this basis, we validated the 3′UTR of OPG mRNA as miR-21 target. Constitutive miR-21 inhibition in lentiviral-transduced BMSCs adherent to MM cells restored OPG expression and secretion. Interestingly, miR-21 inhibition reduced RANKL production by BMSCs. Overexpression of protein inhibitor of activated STAT3 (PIAS3), which is a direct and validated target of miR-21, antagonized STAT3-mediated RANKL gene activation. Finally, we demonstrate that constitutive expression of miR-21 inhibitors in BMSCs restores RANKL/OPG balance and dramatically impairs the resorbing activity of mature osteoclasts. Taken together, our data provide proof-of-concept that miR-21 overexpression within MM-microenviroment plays a crucial role in bone resorption/apposition balance, supporting the design of innovative miR-21 inhibition-based strategies for MM-related BD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rita Pitari
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marco Rossi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Cirino Botta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Eugenio Morelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Cinzia Federico
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Annamaria Gullà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Daniele Caracciolo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Human Pathology and Oncology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Magna Graecia University, S. Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy.,Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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13
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Integrated analysis of microRNAs, transcription factors and target genes expression discloses a specific molecular architecture of hyperdiploid multiple myeloma. Oncotarget 2016; 6:19132-47. [PMID: 26056083 PMCID: PMC4662480 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.4302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a malignancy characterized by the hyperdiploid (HD-MM) and the non-hyperdiploid (nHD-MM) subtypes. To shed light within the molecular architecture of these subtypes, we used a novel integromics approach. By annotated MM patient mRNA/microRNA (miRNA) datasets, we investigated mRNAs and miRNAs profiles with relation to changes in transcriptional regulators expression. We found that HD-MM displays specific gene and miRNA expression profiles, involving the Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT)3 pathway as well as the Transforming Growth Factor–beta (TGFβ) and the transcription regulator Nuclear Protein-1 (NUPR1). Our data define specific molecular features of HD-MM that may translate in the identification of novel relevant druggable targets.
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14
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Gallo Cantafio ME, Nielsen BS, Mignogna C, Arbitrio M, Botta C, Frandsen NM, Rolfo C, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Di Martino MT. Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of a 13-mer LNA-inhibitor-miR-221 in Mice and Non-human Primates. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2016; 5:S2162-2531(17)30051-3. [PMID: 27327137 PMCID: PMC5022129 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2016.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Locked nucleic acid (LNA) oligonucleotides have been successfully used to efficiently inhibit endogenous small noncoding RNAs in vitro and in vivo. We previously demonstrated that the direct miR-221 inhibition by the novel 13-mer LNA-i-miR-221 induces significant antimyeloma activity and upregulates canonical miR-221 targets in vitro and in vivo. To evaluate the LNA-i-miR-221 pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, novel assays for oligonucleotides quantification in NOD.SCID mice and Cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) plasma, urine and tissues were developed. To this aim, a liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry method, after solid-phase extraction, was used for the detection of LNA-i-miR-221 in plasma and urine, while a specific in situ hybridization assay for tissue uptake analysis was designed. Our analysis revealed short half-life, optimal tissue biovailability and minimal urine excretion of LNA-i-miR-221 in mice and monkeys. Up to 3 weeks, LNA-i-miR-221 was still detectable in mice vital organs and in xenografted tumors, together with p27 target upregulation. Importantly, no toxicity in the pilot monkey study was observed. Overall, our findings indicate the suitability of LNA-i-miR-221 for clinical use and we provide here pilot data for safety analysis and further development of LNA-miRNA-based therapeutics for human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eugenia Gallo Cantafio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Mignogna
- Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Cirino Botta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Christian Rolfo
- Department of Oncology, University Hospital of Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy.,Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
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15
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miR-29s: a family of epi-miRNAs with therapeutic implications in hematologic malignancies. Oncotarget 2016; 6:12837-61. [PMID: 25968566 PMCID: PMC4536984 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A wealth of studies has highlighted the biological complexity of hematologic malignancies and the role of dysregulated signal transduction pathways. Along with the crucial role of genetic abnormalities, epigenetic aberrations are nowadays emerging as relevant players in cancer development, and significant research efforts are currently focusing on mechanisms by which histone post-translational modifications, DNA methylation and noncoding RNAs contribute to the pathobiology of cancer. As a consequence, these studies have provided the rationale for the development of epigenetic drugs, such as histone deacetylase inhibitors and demethylating compounds, some of which are currently in advanced phase of pre-clinical investigation or in clinical trials. In addition, a more recent body of evidence indicates that microRNAs (miRNAs) might target effectors of the epigenetic machinery, which are aberrantly expressed or active in cancers, thus reverting those epigenetic abnormalities driving tumor initiation and progression. This review will focus on the broad epigenetic activity triggered by members of the miR-29 family, which underlines the potential of miR-29s as candidate epi-therapeutics for the treatment of hematologic malignancies.
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16
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Di Martino MT, Rossi M, Caracciolo D, Gullà A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Mir-221/222 are promising targets for innovative anticancer therapy. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2016; 20:1099-108. [PMID: 26959615 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2016.1164693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key non-coding RNA post-transcriptional regulators of messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and are deeply dysregulated in human cancer. A rising body of evidence indicates that miRNAs represent valuable therapeutic targets. In this light, the cluster miR-221/222 are of particular relevance, given that they are strongly upregulated in a variety of solid and hematologic malignancies. AREA COVERED This review summarizes recent findings on the roles played by miR-221/222 in human cancer and their potential clinical value as promising targets for therapeutic studies. EXPERT OPINION The rising body of advanced preclinical evidence on the biological significance of miR-221/222 in a variety of malignancies indicates that they will play a crucial role in the future of innovative therapeutic strategies, both as validated biomarkers and targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Di Martino
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Marco Rossi
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Daniele Caracciolo
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Annamaria Gullà
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy.,b Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology , Temple University , Philadelphia , PA , USA
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17
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Gullà A, Di Martino MT, Gallo Cantafio ME, Morelli E, Amodio N, Botta C, Pitari MR, Lio SG, Britti D, Stamato MA, Hideshima T, Munshi NC, Anderson KC, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. A 13 mer LNA-i-miR-221 Inhibitor Restores Drug Sensitivity in Melphalan-Refractory Multiple Myeloma Cells. Clin Cancer Res 2016; 22:1222-33. [PMID: 26527748 PMCID: PMC4775414 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-15-0489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The onset of drug resistance is a major cause of treatment failure in multiple myeloma. Although increasing evidence is defining the role of miRNAs in mediating drug resistance, their potential activity as drug-sensitizing agents has not yet been investigated in multiple myeloma. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Here we studied the potential utility of miR-221/222 inhibition in sensitizing refractory multiple myeloma cells to melphalan. RESULTS miR-221/222 expression inversely correlated with melphalan sensitivity of multiple myeloma cells. Inhibition of miR-221/222 overcame melphalan resistance and triggered apoptosis of multiple myeloma cells in vitro, in the presence or absence of human bone marrow (BM) stromal cells. Decreased multiple myeloma cell growth induced by inhibition of miR-221/222 plus melphalan was associated with a marked upregulation of pro-apoptotic BBC3/PUMA protein, a miR-221/222 target, as well as with modulation of drug influx-efflux transporters SLC7A5/LAT1 and the ABC transporter ABCC1/MRP1. Finally, in vivo treatment of SCID/NOD mice bearing human melphalan-refractory multiple myeloma xenografts with systemic locked nucleic acid (LNA) inhibitors of miR-221 (LNA-i-miR-221) plus melphalan overcame drug resistance, evidenced by growth inhibition with significant antitumor effects together with modulation of PUMA and ABCC1 in tumors retrieved from treated mice. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our findings provide the proof of concept that LNA-i-miR-221 can reverse melphalan resistance in preclinical models of multiple myeloma, providing the framework for clinical trials to overcome drug resistance, and improve patient outcome in multiple myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Gullà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Eugenia Gallo Cantafio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Eugenio Morelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Cirino Botta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Rita Pitari
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Santo Giovanni Lio
- Pathology Unit, "Giovanni Paolo II" Hospital, Lamezia Terme, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Angelica Stamato
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Teru Hideshima
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nikhil C Munshi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts. VA Boston Healthcare System, West Roxbury, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kenneth C Anderson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy. Center for Biotechnology, Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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18
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Di Martino MT, Arbitrio M, Guzzi PH, Cannataro M, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Experimental treatment of multiple myeloma in the era of precision medicine. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2016.1142356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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19
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Rossi M, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. MicroRNAs in multiple myeloma and related bone disease. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2016; 3:334. [PMID: 26734644 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2305-5839.2015.12.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non coding RNAs aberrantly expressed in solid and hematopoietic malignancies where they play a pivotal function as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. Recent reports have unveiled a central role of miRNAs in multiple myeloma onset and progression and preclinical findings are progressively disclosing their potential therapeutic value as drugs or targets. In this review, we provide the basic insights of miRNA biology and function, showing how these molecules are extensively dysregulated in malignant plasma cells (PC) and related microenvironment, thus favoring clone survival and proliferation. We here describe how these critical activities have recently been evaluated to design miRNA-based therapies against multiple myeloma cells and its surrounding microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rossi
- 1 Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy ; 2 Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- 1 Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy ; 2 Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- 1 Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Campus Salvatore Venuta, Catanzaro, Italy ; 2 Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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20
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MicroRNAs: Novel Crossroads between Myeloma Cells and the Bone Marrow Microenvironment. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:6504593. [PMID: 26881223 PMCID: PMC4736225 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6504593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematologic malignancy of differentiated plasma cells that accumulate in the bone marrow, where a complex microenvironment made by different cell types supports proliferation, survival, and drug resistance of tumor cells. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at posttranscriptional level. Emerging evidence indicates that miRNAs are aberrantly expressed or functionally deregulated in MM cells as the result of multiple genetic or epigenetic mechanisms and that also the tumor microenvironment regulates MM cell functions by miRNAs. Consistently, modulation of miRNA levels in MM cells has been demonstrated to impair their functional interaction with the bone marrow microenvironment and to produce significant antitumor activity even able to overcome the protective bone marrow milieu. This review will describe the most recent findings on miRNA function in the context of MM bone marrow microenvironment, focusing on the therapeutic potential of miRNA-based approaches.
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21
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Cosco D, Cilurzo F, Maiuolo J, Federico C, Di Martino MT, Cristiano MC, Tassone P, Fresta M, Paolino D. Delivery of miR-34a by chitosan/PLGA nanoplexes for the anticancer treatment of multiple myeloma. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17579. [PMID: 26620594 PMCID: PMC4665167 DOI: 10.1038/srep17579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The encapsulation of miR-34a into chitosan/PLGA nanoparticles in order to obtain nanoplexes useful for the modulation of the biopharmaceutical features of the active compound was studied. The nanoplexes were obtained through nanoprecipitation and were characterized by a mean diameter of ~160 nm, a good size distribution and a positive surface charge. The structure of the nanoparticles allowed a high level of entrapment efficiency of the miR-34a and provided protection of the genetic material from the effects of RNase. A high degree of transfection efficiency of the nanoplexes and a significant in vitro antitumor effect against multiple myeloma cells was demonstrated. The therapeutic properties of the nanoplexes were evaluated in vivo against human multiple myeloma xenografts in NOD-SCID mice. The systemic injection of miR-34a mimic-loaded nanoparticles significantly inhibited tumor growth and translated into improved survival of the laboratory mice. RT-PCR analysis carried out on retrieved tumors demonstrated the presence of a high concentration of miR-34a mimics. The integrity of the nanoplexes remained intact and no organ toxicity was observed in treated animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donato Cosco
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario "S. Venuta", Viale S. Venuta, Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy.,IRC FSH- Interregional Research Center for Food Safety &Health, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Campus Universitario "S. Venuta" - Building of BioSciences, Viale S. Venuta, I-88100 Germaneto; Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Felisa Cilurzo
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario "S. Venuta", Viale S. Venuta, Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Jessica Maiuolo
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario "S. Venuta", Viale S. Venuta, Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Cinzia Federico
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario "S. Venuta", Viale S. Venuta, Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario "S. Venuta", Viale S. Venuta, Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Cristiano
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario "S. Venuta", Viale S. Venuta, Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario "S. Venuta", Viale S. Venuta, Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy.,Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, US
| | - Massimo Fresta
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario "S. Venuta", Viale S. Venuta, Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy.,IRC FSH- Interregional Research Center for Food Safety &Health, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Campus Universitario "S. Venuta" - Building of BioSciences, Viale S. Venuta, I-88100 Germaneto; Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Donatella Paolino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario "S. Venuta", Viale S. Venuta, Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy.,IRC FSH- Interregional Research Center for Food Safety &Health, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Campus Universitario "S. Venuta" - Building of BioSciences, Viale S. Venuta, I-88100 Germaneto; Catanzaro, Italy
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22
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Rossi M, Calimeri T, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Multiple myeloma-related bone disease: state-of-art and next future treatments. Int J Hematol Oncol 2015. [DOI: 10.2217/ijh.14.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell malignancy associated with the development of life-threatening and/or severe osteolytic lesions, which significantly worsen the quality of life of affected patients. MM-related bone disease (BD) is the result of an overwhelming osteoclastic activity, while osteoblast-mediated bone formation is inhibited. Bisphosphonates are still the mainstay of therapy for BD. However, these drugs are associated with mid long-term sequelae. In this work, we review the pathogenesis and currently available therapies of MM-related BD. We describe the most recent and promising findings that may translate in changing the clinical practice in the next future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rossi
- Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University & Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Teresa Calimeri
- Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University & Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University & Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University & Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research & Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science & Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
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23
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Zheng P, Guo H, Li G, Han S, Luo F, Liu Y. PSMB4 promotes multiple myeloma cell growth by activating NF-κB-miR-21 signaling. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2015; 458:328-33. [PMID: 25656574 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2015.01.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Proteasomal subunit PSMB4, was recently identified as potential cancer driver genes in several tumors. However, the regulatory mechanism of PSMB4 on carcinogenesis process remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the expression and roles of PSMB4 in multiple myeloma (MM). We found a significant up-regulation of PSMB4 in MM plasma and cell lines. Ectopic overexpression of PSMB4 promoted cell growth and colony forming ability of MM cells, whereas inhibition of PSMB4 led to a decrease of such events. Furthermore, our results demonstrated the up-regulation of miR-21 and a positive correlation between the levels of miR-21 and PSMB4 in MM. Re-expression of miR-21 markedly rescued PSMB4 knockdown-mediated suppression of cell proliferation and clone-formation. Additionally, while enforced expression of PSMB4 profoundly increased NF-κB activity and the level of miR-21, PSMB4 knockdown or NF-κB inhibition suppressed miR-21 expression in MM cells. Taken together, our results demonstrated that PSMB4 regulated MM cell growth in part by activating NF-κB-miR-21 signaling, which may represent promising targets for novel specific therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peihao Zheng
- Department of Hematology, Navy General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Honggang Guo
- Department of Hematology, Navy General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Guangchao Li
- School of Bioscience and Bioengineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Siqi Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Fei Luo
- Department of Stomatology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Hematology, Navy General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China.
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Raimondi L, Amodio N, Di Martino MT, Altomare E, Leotta M, Caracciolo D, Gullà A, Neri A, Taverna S, D'Aquila P, Alessandro R, Giordano A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Targeting of multiple myeloma-related angiogenesis by miR-199a-5p mimics: in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activity. Oncotarget 2015; 5:3039-54. [PMID: 24839982 PMCID: PMC4102790 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.1747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) cells induce relevant angiogenic effects within the human bone marrow milieu (huBMM) by the aberrant expression of angiogenic factors. Hypoxia triggers angiogenic events within the huBMM and the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is over-expressed by MM cells. Since synthetic miR-199a-5p mimics negatively regulates HIF-1α, we here investigated a miRNA-based therapeutic strategy against hypoxic MM cells. We indeed found that enforced expression of miR-199a-5p led to down-modulated expression of HIF-1α as well as of other pro-angiogenic factors such as VEGF-A, IL-8, and FGFb in hypoxic MM cells in vitro. Moreover, miR-199a-5p negatively affected MM cells migration, while it increased the adhesion of MM cells to bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) in hypoxic conditions. Furthermore, transfection of MM cells with miR-199a-5p significantly impaired also endothelial cells migration and down-regulated the expression of endothelial adhesion molecules such as VCAM-1 and ICAM-1. Finally, we identified a hypoxia/AKT/miR-199a-5p loop as a potential molecular mechanism responsible of miR-199a-5p down-regulation in hypoxic MM cells. Taken together our results indicate that miR-199a-5p has an important role for the pathogenesis of MM and support the hypothesis that targeting angiogenesis via a miRNA/HIF-1α pathway may represent a novel potential therapeutical approach for this still lethal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Raimondi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
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25
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Botta C, Gullà A, Correale P, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells in multiple myeloma: pre-clinical research and translational opportunities. Front Oncol 2014; 4:348. [PMID: 25538892 PMCID: PMC4258997 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2014.00348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2014] [Accepted: 11/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunosuppressive cells have been reported to play an important role in tumor-progression mainly because of their capability to promote immune-escape, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Among them, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) have been recently identified as immature myeloid cells, induced by tumor-associated inflammation, able to impair both innate and adaptive immunity. While murine MDSCs are usually identified by the expression of CD11b and Gr1, human MDSCs represent a more heterogeneous population characterized by the expression of CD33 and CD11b, low or no HLA-DR, and variable CD14 and CD15. In particular, the last two may alternatively identify monocyte-like or granulocyte-like MDSC subsets with different immunosuppressive properties. Recently, a substantial increase of MDSCs has been found in peripheral blood and bone marrow (BM) of multiple myeloma (MM) patients with a role in disease progression and/or drug resistance. Pre-clinical models recapitulating the complexity of the MM-related BM microenvironment (BMM) are major tools for the study of the interactions between MM cells and cells of the BMM (including MDSCs) and for the development of new agents targeting MM-associated immune-suppressive cells. This review will focus on current strategies for human MDSCs generation and investigation of their immunosuppressive function in vitro and in vivo, taking into account the relevant relationship occurring within the MM–BMM. We will then provide trends in MDSC-associated research and suggest potential application for the treatment of MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cirino Botta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, "Salvatore Venuta" University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Annamaria Gullà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, "Salvatore Venuta" University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy
| | | | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, "Salvatore Venuta" University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, "Salvatore Venuta" University Campus , Catanzaro , Italy ; Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University , Philadelphia, PA , USA
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26
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Leotta M, Biamonte L, Raimondi L, Ronchetti D, Di Martino MT, Botta C, Leone E, Pitari MR, Neri A, Giordano A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Amodio N. A p53-dependent tumor suppressor network is induced by selective miR-125a-5p inhibition in multiple myeloma cells. J Cell Physiol 2014; 229:2106-16. [PMID: 24819167 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2014] [Revised: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The analysis of deregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) is emerging as a novel approach to disclose the regulation of tumor suppressor or tumor promoting pathways in tumor cells. Targeting aberrantly expressed miRNAs is therefore a promising strategy for cancer treatment. By miRNA profiling of primary plasma cells from multiple myeloma (MM) patients, we previously reported increased miR-125a-5p levels associated to specific molecular subgroups. On these premises, we aimed at investigating the biological effects triggered by miR-125a-5p modulation in MM cells. Expression of p53 pathway-related genes was down-regulated in MM cells transfected with miR-125a-5p mimics. Luciferase reporter assays confirmed specific p53 targeting at 3'UTR level by miR-125a-5p mimics. Interestingly, bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) affected the miR-125a-5p/p53 axis, since adhesion of MM cells to BMSCs strongly up-regulated miR-125a-5p levels, while reduced p53 expression. Moreover, ectopic miR-125a-5p reduced, while miR-125-5p inhibitors promoted, the expression of tumor suppressor miR-192 and miR-194, transcriptionally regulated by p53. Lentiviral-mediated stable inhibition of miR-125a-5p expression in wild-type p53 MM cells dampened cell growth, increased apoptosis and reduced cell migration. Importantly, inhibition of in vitro MM cell proliferation and migration was also achieved by synthetic miR-125a-5p inhibitors and was potentiated by the co-expression of miR-192 or miR-194. Taken together, our data indicate that miR-125a-5p antagonism results in the activation of p53 pathway in MM cells, underlying the crucial role of this miRNA in the biopathology of MM and providing the molecular rationale for the combinatory use of miR-125a inhibitors and miR-192 or miR-194 mimics for MM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Leotta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
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Misso G, Di Martino MT, De Rosa G, Farooqi AA, Lombardi A, Campani V, Zarone MR, Gullà A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Caraglia M. Mir-34: a new weapon against cancer? MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2014; 3:e194. [PMID: 25247240 PMCID: PMC4222652 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2014.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 383] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The microRNA(miRNA)-34a is a key regulator of tumor suppression. It controls the
expression of a plethora of target proteins involved in cell cycle, differentiation
and apoptosis, and antagonizes processes that are necessary for basic cancer cell
viability as well as cancer stemness, metastasis, and chemoresistance. In this
review, we focus on the molecular mechanisms of miR-34a-mediated tumor suppression,
giving emphasis on the main miR-34a targets, as well as on the principal regulators
involved in the modulation of this miRNA. Moreover, we shed light on the miR-34a role
in modulating responsiveness to chemotherapy and on the phytonutrients-mediated
regulation of miR-34a expression and activity in cancer cells. Given the broad
anti-oncogenic activity of miR-34a, we also discuss the substantial benefits of a new
therapeutic concept based on nanotechnology delivery of miRNA mimics. In fact, the
replacement of oncosuppressor miRNAs provides an effective strategy against tumor
heterogeneity and the selective RNA-based delivery systems seems to be an excellent
platform for a safe and effective targeting of the tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Misso
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical OncologyUnit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Rosa
- Department of Pharmacy, University "Federico II" of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Ammad Ahmad Farooqi
- Laboratory for Translational Oncology and Personalized Medicine, Rashid Latif Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Virginia Campani
- Department of Pharmacy, University "Federico II" of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Mayra Rachele Zarone
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Gullà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical OncologyUnit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical OncologyUnit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- 1] Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical OncologyUnit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy [2] Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michele Caraglia
- 1] Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical OncologyUnit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy [2] Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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MicroRNA-21 and multiple myeloma: small molecule and big function. Med Oncol 2014; 31:94. [PMID: 24981236 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-014-0094-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a monoclonal malignant plasma cell disorder with an apparent homogeneity as opposed to leukemia and lymphomas. The recent introduction of thalidomide, lenalidomide and bortezomib has prolonged survival of patients with MM, and drug resistance or relapse of disease is perhaps still the major concern. Deregulation of hundreds of genes and multiple signaling pathways leads to MM pathogenesis and disease progression. While many of these genes and signaling pathways are regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNAs are small 19-22 nucleotide single-stranded RNAs that either as tumor suppressors or oncogenes play an important role in the progression and pathogenesis of cancer. Among them, microRNA-21 (miR-21) is frequently up-regulated in many cancers. Recent studies have shown that miR-21 displays an important role in the occurrence, development, recurrence and drug resistance of MM. In this review, we aim at summarizing the current knowledge of miR-21 functions in MM, with an emphasis on its laboratory research and clinical research in MM.
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29
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Bringhen S, Gay F, Donato F, Troia R, Mina R, Palumbo A. Current Phase II investigational proteasome inhibitors for the treatment of multiple myeloma. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 23:1193-209. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2014.920821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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30
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Di Martino MT, Campani V, Misso G, Gallo Cantafio ME, Gullà A, Foresta U, Guzzi PH, Castellano M, Grimaldi A, Gigantino V, Franco R, Lusa S, Cannataro M, Tagliaferri P, De Rosa G, Tassone P, Caraglia M. In vivo activity of miR-34a mimics delivered by stable nucleic acid lipid particles (SNALPs) against multiple myeloma. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90005. [PMID: 24587182 PMCID: PMC3937395 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a disease with an adverse outcome and new therapeutic strategies are urgently awaited. A rising body of evidence supports the notion that microRNAs (miRNAs), master regulators of eukaryotic gene expression, may exert anti-MM activity. Here, we evaluated the activity of synthetic miR-34a in MM cells. We found that transfection of miR-34a mimics in MM cells induces a significant change of gene expression with relevant effects on multiple signal transduction pathways. We detected early inactivation of pro-survival and proliferative kinases Erk-2 and Akt followed at later time points by caspase-6 and -3 activation and apoptosis induction. To improve the in vivo delivery, we encapsulated miR-34a mimics in stable nucleic acid lipid particles (SNALPs). We found that SNALPs miR-34a were highly efficient in vitro in inhibiting growth of MM cells. Then, we investigated the activity of the SNALPs miR-34a against MM xenografts in SCID mice. We observed significant tumor growth inhibition (p<0.05) which translated in mice survival benefits (p = 0.0047). Analysis of miR-34a and NOTCH1 expression in tumor retrieved from animal demonstrated efficient delivery and gene modulation induced by SNALPs miR-34a in the absence of systemic toxicity. We here therefore provide evidence that SNALPs miR-34a may represent a promising tool for miRNA-therapeutics in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical Oncology Unit, Catanzaro, Italy
- T. Campanella Cancer Center, “Salvatore Venuta” University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Virginia Campani
- Department of Pharmacy, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Misso
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Eugenia Gallo Cantafio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical Oncology Unit, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Annamaria Gullà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical Oncology Unit, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Umberto Foresta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical Oncology Unit, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pietro Hiram Guzzi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Laboratory of Bioinformatics Unit, “Salvatore Venuta” University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Castellano
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Grimaldi
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Gigantino
- Pathology Unit, National Institute of Tumours of Naples “Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Renato Franco
- Pathology Unit, National Institute of Tumours of Naples “Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Lusa
- Department of Pharmacy, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Cannataro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Laboratory of Bioinformatics Unit, “Salvatore Venuta” University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical Oncology Unit, Catanzaro, Italy
- T. Campanella Cancer Center, “Salvatore Venuta” University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Rosa
- Department of Pharmacy, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical Oncology Unit, Catanzaro, Italy
- T. Campanella Cancer Center, “Salvatore Venuta” University Campus, Catanzaro, Italy
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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31
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Di Martino MT, Gullà A, Cantafio MEG, Lionetti M, Leone E, Amodio N, Guzzi PH, Foresta U, Conforti F, Cannataro M, Neri A, Giordano A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. In vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activity of miR-221/222 inhibitors in multiple myeloma. Oncotarget 2014; 4:242-55. [PMID: 23479461 PMCID: PMC3712570 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A rising body of evidence suggests that silencing microRNAs (miRNAs) with oncogenic potential may represent a successful therapeutic strategy for human cancer. We investigated the therapeutic activity of miR-221/222 inhibitors against human multiple myeloma (MM) cells. Enforced expression of miR-221/222 inhibitors triggered in vitro anti-proliferative effects and up-regulation of canonic miR-221/222 targets, including p27Kip1, PUMA, PTEN and p57Kip2, in MM cells highly expressing miR-221/222. Conversely, transfection of miR-221/222 mimics increased S-phase and down-regulated p27Kip1 protein expression in MM with low basal miR-221/222 levels. The effects of miR-221/222 inhibitors was also evaluated in MM xenografts in SCID/ NOD mice. Significant anti-tumor activity was achieved in xenografted mice by the treatment with miR-221/222 inhibitors, together with up-regulation of canonic protein targets in tumors retrieved from animals. These findings provide proof of principle that silencing the miR-221/222 cluster exerts significant therapeutic activity in MM cells with high miR-221/222 level of expression, which mostly occurs in TC2 and TC4 MM groups. These findings suggest that MM genotyping may predict the therapeutic response. All together our results support a framework for clinical development of miR-221/222 inhibitors-based therapeutic strategy in this still incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
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32
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Rossi M, Pitari MR, Amodio N, Di Martino MT, Conforti F, Leone E, Botta C, Paolino FM, Del Giudice T, Iuliano E, Caraglia M, Ferrarini M, Giordano A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. miR-29b negatively regulates human osteoclastic cell differentiation and function: implications for the treatment of multiple myeloma-related bone disease. J Cell Physiol 2013; 228:1506-15. [PMID: 23254643 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Skeletal homeostasis relies upon a fine tuning of osteoclast (OCL)-mediated bone resorption and osteoblast (OBL)-dependent bone formation. This balance is unsettled by multiple myeloma (MM) cells, which impair OBL function and stimulate OCLs to generate lytic lesions. Emerging experimental evidence is disclosing a key regulatory role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the regulation of bone homeostasis suggesting the miRNA network as potential novel target for the treatment of MM-related bone disease (BD). Here, we report that miR-29b expression decreases progressively during human OCL differentiation in vitro. We found that lentiviral transduction of miR-29b into OCLs, even in the presence of MM cells, significantly impairs tartrate acid phosphatase (TRAcP) expression, lacunae generation, and collagen degradation, which are relevant hallmarks of OCL activity. Accordingly, expression of cathepsin K and metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) as well as actin ring rearrangement were impaired in the presence of miR-29b. Moreover, we found that canonical targets C-FOS and metalloproteinase 2 are suppressed by constitutive miR-29b expression which also downregulated the master OCL transcription factor, NAFTc-1. Overall, these data indicate that enforced expression of miR-29b impairs OCL differentiation and overcomes OCL activation triggered by MM cells, providing a rationale for miR-29b-based treatment of MM-related BD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rossi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Tommaso Campanella Cancer Center, Catanzaro, Italy
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33
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Amodio N, Bellizzi D, Leotta M, Raimondi L, Biamonte L, D'Aquila P, Di Martino MT, Calimeri T, Rossi M, Lionetti M, Leone E, Passarino G, Neri A, Giordano A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. miR-29b induces SOCS-1 expression by promoter demethylation and negatively regulates migration of multiple myeloma and endothelial cells. Cell Cycle 2013; 12:3650-62. [PMID: 24091729 DOI: 10.4161/cc.26585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes frequently occurs and may account for their inactivation in cancer cells. We previously demonstrated that miR-29b is a tumor suppressor microRNA (miRNA) that targets de novo DNA methyltransferases and reduces the global DNA methylation of multiple myeloma (MM) cells. Here, we provide evidence that epigenetic activity of miR-29b leads to promoter demethylation of suppressor of cytokine signaling-1 (SOCS-1), a hypermethylated tumor suppressor gene. Enforced expression of synthetic miR-29b mimics in MM cell lines resulted in SOCS-1 gene promoter demethylation, as assessed by Sequenom MassARRAY EpiTYPER analysis, and SOCS-1 protein upregulation. miR-29b-induced SOCS-1 demethylation was associated with reduced STAT3 phosphorylation and impaired NFκB activity. Downregulation of VEGF-A and IL-8 mRNAs could be detected in MM cells transfected with miR-29b mimics as well as in endothelial (HUVEC) or stromal (HS-5) cells treated with conditioned medium from miR-29b-transfected MM cells. Notably, enforced expression of miR-29b mimics increased adhesion of MM cells to HS-5 and reduced migration of both MM and HUVEC cells. These findings suggest that miR-29b is a negative regulator of either MM or endothelial cell migration. Finally, the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib, which induces the expression of miR-29b, decreased global DNA methylation by a miR-29b-dependent mechanism and induced SOCS-1 promoter demethylation and protein upregulation. In conclusion, our data indicate that miR-29b is endowed with epigenetic activity and mediates previously unknown functions of bortezomib in MM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine; Magna Graecia University and Medical Oncology Unit; T. Campanella Cancer Center; Salvatore Venuta University Campus; Catanzaro, Italy
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34
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Misso G, Zappavigna S, Castellano M, De Rosa G, Di Martino MT, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Caraglia M. Emerging pathways as individualized therapeutic target of multiple myeloma. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2013; 13 Suppl 1:S95-109. [PMID: 23738692 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2013.807338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable plasma cell malignancy, which causes significant morbidity due to organ damage and bone tissue destruction. In recent years, novel drugs have become available for MM therapy thanks to the growing knowledge of disease pathobiology. AREAS COVERED Intrinsic genetic lesions, as well as the bone marrow microenvironment, contribute to the activation of proliferation and survival pathways, impairment of cell death mechanisms and drug resistance. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and the Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are the signaling pathways mainly involved in the MM development. In the last decade, several molecules interfering with growth and survival promoting signaling have been developed. EXPERT OPINION Despite the availability of novel therapeutics, MM still evolves into a drug-resistant phase and most patients die of progressive disease. Therefore, there is an urgent need of novel therapeutic strategies. Among a plethora of new investigational agents, microRNA (miRNA) represents the basis for the design of novel therapeutic strategies which basically rely on miRNA inhibition or miRNA replacement approaches and take benefit respectively from the use of miRNA inhibitors or synthetic miRNAs as well as from lipid-based nanoparticles as carriers for in vivo delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Misso
- Second University of Naples, Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Via S.M. Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
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35
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Amodio N, Di Martino MT, Neri A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Non-coding RNA: a novel opportunity for the personalized treatment of multiple myeloma. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2013; 13 Suppl 1:S125-37. [PMID: 23692413 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2013.796356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Increasing evidence indicates that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are aberrantly expressed and/or functionally deregulated in hematological malignancies, including multiple myeloma. Harnessing these abnormalities by either replacing or inhibiting ncRNAs is emerging as novel therapeutic option. AREAS COVERED We review the recent remarkable advancement in the understanding of the biological functions of human ncRNAs in multiple myeloma, including the biogenesis, the mechanisms of expression, the relevance as biomarkers, and mostly, the therapeutic potential. Special emphasis is given to microRNAs, the best characterized class of ncRNAs. EXPERT OPINION An improved understanding of the role of ncRNAs in multiple myeloma would provide valuable information about key cancer-promoting pathways and might be highly useful for diagnostic and prognostic assessments. This knowledge might also lead to advancement in the management of multiple myeloma through the development of novel personalized ncRNA-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Amodio
- Magna Graecia University and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Medical Oncology Unit, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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Rossi M, Botta C, Correale P, Tassone P, Tagliaferri P. Immunologic microenvironment and personalized treatment in multiple myeloma. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2013; 13 Suppl 1:S83-93. [PMID: 23692463 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2013.799130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by generalized immune suppression and increased susceptibility to infections and secondary malignancies. Malignant plasma cells (PCs) modulate the bone marrow microenvironment to favor their own survival and proliferation. These events lead to a severe deregulation of immune effectors. Extensive studies have been conducted to unveil the mechanisms through which MM cells negatively modulate immunity and to develop therapeutical approaches for restoring an efficient anti-MM immune response. AREAS COVERED This review article covers both the immunosuppressive effects exerted by MM and the immunomodulatory potential of novel anti-MM agents. A brief overview on the most promising immunotherapeutic approaches in the field is also provided. EXPERT OPINION MM leads to a progressive impairment of the immune system. Different approaches have been evaluated or are currently under investigation to boost a specific anti-MM immune response. The discovery that anti-MM agents like bortezomib also retain immunomodulatory properties provides evidence to support the development of combined treatment modalities. In the next future, immunotherapy will be likely included in selective treatments in early stages or in the post-transplantation setting with non toxic modalities that control or clear the neoplastic clone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rossi
- Magna Graecia University and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Medical Oncology Unit, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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Leone E, Morelli E, Di Martino MT, Amodio N, Foresta U, Gullà A, Rossi M, Neri A, Giordano A, Munshi NC, Anderson KC, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Targeting miR-21 inhibits in vitro and in vivo multiple myeloma cell growth. Clin Cancer Res 2013; 19:2096-106. [PMID: 23446999 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-3325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Deregulated expression of miRNAs plays a role in the pathogenesis and progression of multiple myeloma. Among upregulated miRNAs, miR-21 has oncogenic potential and therefore represents an attractive target for the treatment of multiple myeloma. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Here, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo anti-multiple myeloma activity of miR-21 inhibitors. RESULTS Either transient-enforced expression or lentivirus-based constitutive expression of miR-21 inhibitors triggered significant growth inhibition of primary patient multiple myeloma cells or interleukin-6-dependent/independent multiple myeloma cell lines and overcame the protective activity of human bone marrow stromal cells. Conversely, transfection of miR-21 mimics significantly increased proliferation of multiple myeloma cells, showing its tumor-promoting potential in multiple myeloma. Importantly, upregulation of miR-21 canonical validated targets (PTEN, Rho-B, and BTG2), together with functional impairment of both AKT and extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling, were achieved by transfection of miR-21 inhibitors into multiple myeloma cells. In vivo delivery of miR-21 inhibitors in severe combined immunodeficient mice bearing human multiple myeloma xenografts expressing miR-21 induced significant antitumor activity. Upregulation of PTEN and downregulation of p-AKT were observed in retrieved xenografts following treatment with miR-21 inhibitors. CONCLUSION Our findings show the first evidence that in vivo antagonism of miR-21 exerts anti-multiple myeloma activity, providing the rationale for clinical development of miR-21 inhibitors in this still incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Leone
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and T. Campanella Cancer Center, Catanzaro, Italy
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Udi J, Schüler J, Wider D, Ihorst G, Catusse J, Waldschmidt J, Schnerch D, Follo M, Wäsch R, Engelhardt M. Potent in vitro and in vivo activity of sorafenib in multiple myeloma: induction of cell death, CD138-downregulation and inhibition of migration through actin depolymerization. Br J Haematol 2013; 161:104-16. [PMID: 23384035 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.12226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 12/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite considerable advances, multiple myeloma (MM) remains incurable and the development of novel therapies targeting the interplay between plasma cells (PCs) and their bone marrow (BM) microenvironment remains essential. We investigated the effect of various agents in vitro on the proliferation, phenotype, morphology, actin polymerization and migration of MM cells and, in vivo, the tumour growth of L363-bearing non-obese diabetic severe combined immunodeficient mice with a deficient interleukin-2 receptor gamma chain (NSG). In vitro, we observed a dose-dependent cytotoxicity with bortezomib and sorafenib. Using RPMI8226 cells co-expressing histone 2B-mCherry and cytochrome c-GFP, bortezomib- and sorafenib-induced apoptosis was confirmed, and both agents combined showed synergism. Sorafenib induced CD138-downregulation and abolished CXCL12-induced actin polymerization. L363 cells expressed CCR4 and CCR5 and migrated to their common ligand CCL5. Chemotaxis to BM stroma cells was notable and significantly reduced by sorafenib. Downregulation of phospho-ERK appeared relevant for the inhibition of actin polymerization and chemotaxis. Sorafenib alone, and combined with bortezomib, showed substantial antitumour activity in L363-bearing NSG. Correspondingly, sorafenib induced clinical responses in MM-/AL-amyloidosis patients. We conclude that, in addition to the cytotoxic and anti-angiogenic effects of sorafenib, blocking of MM cell migration and homing represent promising mechanisms to interrupt the interplay between PCs and their supportive microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefina Udi
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, Freiburg University Medical Centre, Freiburg, Germany
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Di Martino MT, Leone E, Amodio N, Foresta U, Lionetti M, Pitari MR, Cantafio MEG, Gullà A, Conforti F, Morelli E, Tomaino V, Rossi M, Negrini M, Ferrarini M, Caraglia M, Shammas MA, Munshi NC, Anderson KC, Neri A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. Synthetic miR-34a mimics as a novel therapeutic agent for multiple myeloma: in vitro and in vivo evidence. Clin Cancer Res 2012; 18:6260-70. [PMID: 23035210 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-1708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Deregulated expression of miRNAs has been shown in multiple myeloma (MM). A promising strategy to achieve a therapeutic effect by targeting the miRNA regulatory network is to enforce the expression of miRNAs that act as tumor suppressor genes, such as miR-34a. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of synthetic miR-34a against human MM cells in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Either transient expression of miR-34a synthetic mimics or lentivirus-based miR-34a-stable enforced expression triggered growth inhibition and apoptosis in MM cells in vitro. Synthetic miR-34a downregulated canonic targets BCL2, CDK6, and NOTCH1 at both the mRNA and protein level. Lentiviral vector-transduced MM xenografts with constitutive miR-34a expression showed high growth inhibition in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. The anti-MM activity of lipidic-formulated miR-34a was further shown in vivo in two different experimental settings: (i) SCID mice bearing nontransduced MM xenografts; and (ii) SCID-synth-hu mice implanted with synthetic 3-dimensional scaffolds reconstituted with human bone marrow stromal cells and then engrafted with human MM cells. Relevant tumor growth inhibition and survival improvement were observed in mice bearing TP53-mutated MM xenografts treated with miR-34a mimics in the absence of systemic toxicity. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide a proof-of-principle that formulated synthetic miR-34a has therapeutic activity in preclinical models and support a framework for development of miR-34a-based treatment strategies in MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria T Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University and Medical Oncology Unit, T Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus; Pathology Unit, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
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Amodio N, Leotta M, Bellizzi D, Di Martino MT, D'Aquila P, Lionetti M, Fabiani F, Leone E, Gullà AM, Passarino G, Caraglia M, Negrini M, Neri A, Giordano A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P. DNA-demethylating and anti-tumor activity of synthetic miR-29b mimics in multiple myeloma. Oncotarget 2012; 3:1246-58. [PMID: 23100393 PMCID: PMC3717964 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 10/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant DNA methylation plays a relevant role in multiple myeloma (MM) pathogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that recently emerged as master regulator of gene expression by targeting protein-coding mRNAs. However, miRNAs involvement in the regulation of the epigenetic machinery and their potential use as therapeutics in MM remain to be investigated. Here, we provide evidence that the expression of de novo DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) is deregulated in MM cells. Moreover, we show that miR-29b targets DNMT3A and DNMT3B mRNAs and reduces global DNA methylation in MM cells. In vitro transfection of MM cells with synthetic miR-29b mimics significantly impairs cell cycle progression and also potentiates the growth-inhibitory effects induced by the demethylating agent 5-azacitidine. Most importantly, in vivo intratumor or systemic delivery of synthetic miR-29b mimics, in two clinically relevant murine models of human MM, including the SCID-synth-hu system, induces significant anti-tumor effects. All together, our findings demonstrate that aberrant DNMTs expression is efficiently modulated by tumor suppressive synthetic miR-29b mimics, indicating that methyloma modulation is a novel matter of investigation in miRNA-based therapy of MM.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic/pharmacology
- Azacitidine/pharmacology
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Biomimetics
- Blotting, Western
- Bone Marrow/metabolism
- Bone Marrow/pathology
- Case-Control Studies
- Cell Cycle
- Cell Proliferation
- Cellular Microenvironment/drug effects
- DNA (Cytosine-5-)-Methyltransferases/antagonists & inhibitors
- DNA (Cytosine-5-)-Methyltransferases/genetics
- DNA (Cytosine-5-)-Methyltransferases/metabolism
- DNA Methylation
- DNA Methyltransferase 3A
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Humans
- Immunoenzyme Techniques
- Leukemia, Plasma Cell/genetics
- Leukemia, Plasma Cell/pathology
- Leukemia, Plasma Cell/prevention & control
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, SCID
- MicroRNAs/chemical synthesis
- MicroRNAs/genetics
- Multiple Myeloma/genetics
- Multiple Myeloma/pathology
- Multiple Myeloma/prevention & control
- Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Small Interfering/genetics
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- DNA Methyltransferase 3B
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University
and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus,
Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marzia Leotta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University
and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus,
Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Dina Bellizzi
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Calabria, Cosenza
| | - Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University
and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus,
Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Marta Lionetti
- Department of Medical Sciences University of Milan, Hematology 1, IRCCS
Policlinico Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Fernanda Fabiani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University
and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus,
Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Emanuela Leone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University
and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus,
Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Gullà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University
and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus,
Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Second University of Naples,
Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Diagnostics, University of
Ferrara
| | - Antonino Neri
- Department of Medical Sciences University of Milan, Hematology 1, IRCCS
Policlinico Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for
Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University
and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus,
Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University
and Medical Oncology Unit, T. Campanella Cancer Center, Salvatore Venuta University Campus,
Catanzaro, Italy
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for
Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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